CFT...where students learn to shine His light on and off the stage.
About Our CFT Leaders
Michelle Newland - Executive Producer
Linda Jackson - Chief Financial Officer
Linda Jackson - Chief Financial Officer
The Newlands joined CFT in 2009 and all three of the Newland kids performed with CFT for most of their childhood. Michelle served as a parent volunteer from 2010-2018, and now as Executive Producer since 2018. Michelle’s leadership theme is found in John 15:5 where Jesus says “I am the vine and you are the branches; he who abides in Me an
The Newlands joined CFT in 2009 and all three of the Newland kids performed with CFT for most of their childhood. Michelle served as a parent volunteer from 2010-2018, and now as Executive Producer since 2018. Michelle’s leadership theme is found in John 15:5 where Jesus says “I am the vine and you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.” Michelle is excited about expanding the CFT ministry into local and international missions. She clearly sees how performing arts opens the door of the heart and allows the truth of the gospel to go forth. She teaches with passion and has enjoyed classrooms in public, private, homeschool, and church settings. Michelle and her husband Heston reside in Marietta and they celebrated 25 years of marriage last fall!
Linda Jackson - Chief Financial Officer
Linda Jackson - Chief Financial Officer
Linda Jackson - Chief Financial Officer
Linda has been a part of CFT as a supporting family member of the Bobergs since the 2015-2016 season. She also supported Gale Bowen, the Bobergs, and GraceLife Players over the years by attending all performances, as well as offering her financial support. Linda loves watching the talent develop in the young lives as they perform year aft
Linda has been a part of CFT as a supporting family member of the Bobergs since the 2015-2016 season. She also supported Gale Bowen, the Bobergs, and GraceLife Players over the years by attending all performances, as well as offering her financial support. Linda loves watching the talent develop in the young lives as they perform year after year, and she also loves the Christian influence the leaders provide. Linda grew up in Miami, Florida and worked in the Computer Industry for 35 years before retiring and moving to Marietta in 2009. In addition to wanting to participate in as many activities as possible with her family, Linda’s heart is to help families in need through the food ministry of GraceLife Church. Linda is grateful for the opportunity to participate in CFT and she looks forward to what God has for her in the future.
Andy Doyle - Production Manager
Linda Jackson - Chief Financial Officer
Misha Johns - Lead Vocal Coach
Andy first became involved with CFT for the 2019-2020 season when two of his three children joined CFT. That year he volunteered with the Omega 1 troupe. Andy has always loved performing and has participated in theater and music since childhood. Specifically, he never misses an opportunity to sing. Andy’s other life calling has been the c
Andy first became involved with CFT for the 2019-2020 season when two of his three children joined CFT. That year he volunteered with the Omega 1 troupe. Andy has always loved performing and has participated in theater and music since childhood. Specifically, he never misses an opportunity to sing. Andy’s other life calling has been the care of children, and this has been the focus of his professional career. Andy feels CFT is the perfect match for these passions. The Doyle family has been blessed by CFT in so many ways already, and they are excited by the opportunities this year holds and the additional blessings this year will bring.
Misha Johns - Lead Vocal Coach
Linda Jackson - Chief Financial Officer
Misha Johns - Lead Vocal Coach
Misha joined CFT staff in 2018. One of her favorite things to do is to watch students grow vocally as well as in their confidence and in interactions with each other. She started early in performing arts at the age of nine and continued with vocal performances, many instruments, drama, choral ensembles, and numerous church productions thr
Misha joined CFT staff in 2018. One of her favorite things to do is to watch students grow vocally as well as in their confidence and in interactions with each other. She started early in performing arts at the age of nine and continued with vocal performances, many instruments, drama, choral ensembles, and numerous church productions throughout the years. Misha loved including performing arts and music ministry when she was involved in international missions and outreaches. She especially enjoyed working with YWAM’s King’s Kids where she was a leader for many years. She is a seasoned worship leader and musician, but her passion is behind the scenes: mentoring, instructing, and coaching others. Originally from New Mexico, Misha now makes her home in Acworth with her husband, Chad, and two children, Seth and Reyna.
Angelica Smith - lead stage manager and promotions
Angelica Smith - lead stage manager and promotions
Angelica Smith - lead stage manager and promotions
Angelica is a CFT alumna who performed with us from 2015-2019. Angelica found that CFT was a great way to experience theater and she learned many life lessons through the years. Angelica’s favorite role was Captain Alexandra Diaz in Atlantis. She watched Pilgrim, her favorite CFT production, multiple times because the story was such a ble
Angelica is a CFT alumna who performed with us from 2015-2019. Angelica found that CFT was a great way to experience theater and she learned many life lessons through the years. Angelica’s favorite role was Captain Alexandra Diaz in Atlantis. She watched Pilgrim, her favorite CFT production, multiple times because the story was such a blessing. Since then, Angelica has come to love all things theater—from acting to stage managing to directing. Helping with CFT Summer Camp inspired her to tackle our promotions. Angelica puts her social media talents to great use, keeping our students and audience eager for each new post. Other hobbies include graphic design, homeschooling, crafts, and books. Angelica resides in Marietta with her husband/best friend/high school sweetheart, Aaron, and their adorable son, Evan.
Larry Grawey - Chief Audio Engineer
Angelica Smith - lead stage manager and promotions
Angelica Smith - lead stage manager and promotions
Larry and Jennifer were introduced to CFT during the 2018-2019 season. Their son Micah wanted to get involved in theater and they knew that this was the place for him, especially with the family atmosphere and the emphasis on God. Both Larry and Jennifer have their bachelor’s degrees in ministry and have pastored for over 30 years. Before
Larry and Jennifer were introduced to CFT during the 2018-2019 season. Their son Micah wanted to get involved in theater and they knew that this was the place for him, especially with the family atmosphere and the emphasis on God. Both Larry and Jennifer have their bachelor’s degrees in ministry and have pastored for over 30 years. Before going into ministry, they both had experience working with sound and lighting in a church setting. Jennifer has been around theater productions and music most of her life, and with the love she has for it, she strived to learn everything she could along the way. Larry started getting more involved in productions during high school and even traveled with a show, assisting with the special effects. The Graweys have helped with our sound and lighting for many years, and CFT is blessed to have them on the team.
Chris Boberg - Resident Playwright and Acting Coach
Angelica Smith - lead stage manager and promotions
Chris Boberg - Resident Playwright and Acting Coach
Chris came to CFT for the 2015-2016 season. He has been working with children for 40 years, serving in various sports groups, and drama and recreational summer programs. Chris joined the drama department at GraceLife Church in 2012 and performed in several skits and productions including It’s a Wonderful Life, Bookends, Parlor Games, Mond
Chris came to CFT for the 2015-2016 season. He has been working with children for 40 years, serving in various sports groups, and drama and recreational summer programs. Chris joined the drama department at GraceLife Church in 2012 and performed in several skits and productions including It’s a Wonderful Life, Bookends, Parlor Games, Monday Always Leads to Murder, and Narnia. In the fall of 2016, Chris acted in his first original full-length play, the spiritually uplifting melodrama, My Mama’s Heart. He has also written one-act plays for CFT including Hope is Home, Bookends, Melody’s Serenade, Switcheroo, One More for Morty, and Morty Goes to Hollywood! Chris is a graduate of Florida International University and teaches middle school language arts. Originally from Massachusetts, Chris now makes his home in Marietta with his wife, Tracy, and lovely twin daughters, Molly and Natalie.
Melissa Schultz - Ministry & missions Coordinator
Angelica Smith - lead stage manager and promotions
Chris Boberg - Resident Playwright and Acting Coach
The Schultz family found CFT after moving to Georgia from New Mexico in 2017. Having no theater experience herself, Melissa witnessed the positive way it affected her oldest daughter. Watching her gain confidence and godly, lasting friendships, Melissa was encouraged to dive further into theater. She has taken on various roles, from costu
The Schultz family found CFT after moving to Georgia from New Mexico in 2017. Having no theater experience herself, Melissa witnessed the positive way it affected her oldest daughter. Watching her gain confidence and godly, lasting friendships, Melissa was encouraged to dive further into theater. She has taken on various roles, from costumes to assistant director. She has enjoyed working behind the scenes on all the little details that help these shows come together and all the friendships she has made along the way! Now Melissa has the opportunity to combine her passion for ministry and missions with theater. Working alongside staff and students to encourage one another and further the gospel through theater has been a unique and rewarding position. The Schultz family has had four of their six children in CFT. Melissa enjoys good coffee, reading books, writing, learning new things, and traveling with her family.
Isabella GULLIKSEN - Admin Asst.
joanna sloderbeck - Artisan 2nd Asst. Director
Isabella GULLIKSEN - Admin Asst.
Pulled into the world of live theater by her younger extroverted siblings, Isabella enjoys how stories unfold on the stage. She started stage managing in 2018 and loves hanging out with the CFT kids backstage, watching them shine onstage, and sharing *Bella's High Five of Awesomeness* as often as possible. She is a serial jigsaw puzzle so
Pulled into the world of live theater by her younger extroverted siblings, Isabella enjoys how stories unfold on the stage. She started stage managing in 2018 and loves hanging out with the CFT kids backstage, watching them shine onstage, and sharing *Bella's High Five of Awesomeness* as often as possible. She is a serial jigsaw puzzle solver, dabbler in crafts, and budding travel enthusiast. Newlyweds Isabella and Steve reside in Kennesaw and together they support and cheer on each of our students and leaders.
TRACY BOBERG - ARTISAN DIRECTOR
joanna sloderbeck - Artisan 2nd Asst. Director
Isabella GULLIKSEN - Admin Asst.
Tracy came to CFT for the 2015-2016 season. Tracy has been involved with performing arts all her life whether it be acting, playing in the marching band, or—her true love—singing. Tracy joined the choir and praise team at GraceLife Church and Mount Paran Central. In 2012, Tracy joined GraceLife Players, performing and directing in various
Tracy came to CFT for the 2015-2016 season. Tracy has been involved with performing arts all her life whether it be acting, playing in the marching band, or—her true love—singing. Tracy joined the choir and praise team at GraceLife Church and Mount Paran Central. In 2012, Tracy joined GraceLife Players, performing and directing in various skits and productions: Gift of the Magi, It’s a Wonderful Life, Bookends, Parlor Games, Monday Always Leads to Murder, My Mama’s Heart, and Narnia. Tracy has also served as musical director in summer youth camps and workshops. At CFT, Tracy has directed some fine productions such as Wonderland High, Atlantis, Sympathy Jones, Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Willy Wonka, Pilgrim-Her Story and Disney’s Newsies. Tracy is currently teaching math at Dominion Christian School. Originally from Miami, Florida, Tracy is a graduate of the University of Georgia. She lives in Marietta with her husband, Chris, and her beautiful twin daughters, Molly and Natalie.
Tammy George - Artisan Asst. Director
joanna sloderbeck - Artisan 2nd Asst. Director
joanna sloderbeck - Artisan 2nd Asst. Director
Tammy and her family have been part of the CFT family since 2016. In these ten production seasons, Tammy has been cast in many different roles, including costume designer, assistant director, program proofreader, set painter, and director. She also portrayed Mrs. Beaver in the 2017 Grace-Life Players production of Narnia. However her all-
Tammy and her family have been part of the CFT family since 2016. In these ten production seasons, Tammy has been cast in many different roles, including costume designer, assistant director, program proofreader, set painter, and director. She also portrayed Mrs. Beaver in the 2017 Grace-Life Players production of Narnia. However her all-time favorite role is Mother and Homeschool Teacher to her six wonderful children. As a CFT director Tammy led the Alpha Troupe productions of Cinderella’s Glass Slipper, The Enchanted Bookshop, and Adventures of a Comic Book Artist. Theater has always been a passion for Tammy, and she loves that her kids share that passion. Her eldest daughter Kayla helped to start the family’s involvement in CFT and recently graduated with honors from university with her degree in Theater. Tammy is looking forward to a GREAT year with our FABULOUS Artisan Troupe.
joanna sloderbeck - Artisan 2nd Asst. Director
joanna sloderbeck - Artisan 2nd Asst. Director
joanna sloderbeck - Artisan 2nd Asst. Director
The Sloderbecks are in their 4th year with CFT. Joanna has been leading and teaching students for over 10 years, and she is having the most wonderful time establishing relationships with both students and parents this season. CFT became instant family and a safe place for Joanna and her daughter to grow and be pushed out of their comfort
The Sloderbecks are in their 4th year with CFT. Joanna has been leading and teaching students for over 10 years, and she is having the most wonderful time establishing relationships with both students and parents this season. CFT became instant family and a safe place for Joanna and her daughter to grow and be pushed out of their comfort zones. Last year, Joanna was amazed by the Newsies cast as she watched them work hard to bring the show together. She also loved Pilgrim-Her Story, which was full of powerful emotions. Joanna is grateful to the Artisan students who teach her more about herself, God, and the world. Joanna loves spending time with her family: Danny, Dylan, Ava, Chloe, Nana, and Big Daddy. She also loves Micah 6:8, art, the beach, games of all kinds, decorating, planning parties, going on mission trips, and homeschooling her kids.
Erin Tice - Storyteller Director
marina thompson - Storyteller 2nd Asst. Director
Tonia Porche - Storyteller Asst. Director
Now a third year Director, Erin’s theater experience began early. She grew up in the Riverside Theater green room in Vero Beach, FL, which was started by her parents with the Theater Guild in the 1980s. Being trained in theatrical arts led Erin to a college theater scholarship at Wesleyan College in Macon, GA. She has experienced every co
Now a third year Director, Erin’s theater experience began early. She grew up in the Riverside Theater green room in Vero Beach, FL, which was started by her parents with the Theater Guild in the 1980s. Being trained in theatrical arts led Erin to a college theater scholarship at Wesleyan College in Macon, GA. She has experienced every corner of performances, from lead actress to props mistress to assistant director to ensemble to set building. It was no surprise four Tice children have sought the stage for fun and fellowship. CFT has been a blessing, as it has allowed the family to pursue different interests together in one ministry. Each member of the Storyteller Troupe has been woven into Erin’s heart through the love of Christ, making Tuesdays her favorite day of the week. Erin and Mike Tice celebrated their 27th wedding anniversary this year. Blessings Abounding!
Tonia Porche - Storyteller Asst. Director
marina thompson - Storyteller 2nd Asst. Director
Tonia Porche - Storyteller Asst. Director
Tonia and her daughter Jazlyn have joyously returned to Georgia and to CFT. This is Tonia’s second time serving as the Storyteller assistant and she is still a master with the spreadsheets. Using her skills in project and operations management, Tonia helps to support Erin and the Storytellers wherever possible.
marina thompson - Storyteller 2nd Asst. Director
marina thompson - Storyteller 2nd Asst. Director
marina thompson - Storyteller 2nd Asst. Director
Marina Thompson is a CFT alumna who has been in theatre for 10 years. Her favorite show with CFT was Melody's Serenade, where she played the title role of Melody. Marina is currently studying Psychology in college and wants to pursue a career in Biblical Counseling. Marina has loved being able to help the Storyteller troupe each week and
Marina Thompson is a CFT alumna who has been in theatre for 10 years. Her favorite show with CFT was Melody's Serenade, where she played the title role of Melody. Marina is currently studying Psychology in college and wants to pursue a career in Biblical Counseling. Marina has loved being able to help the Storyteller troupe each week and to watch them grow in their talents and develop a love for performing. It has been special to see each student grow in confidence through creating new friendships. Marina prays that every student learns how to be confident in themselves through performing and that they will glorify the Lord in all they do.
emily gail miller - Troubadour Director
emily gail miller - Troubadour Director
marina thompson - Storyteller 2nd Asst. Director
"Mrs. M" is grateful to join the CFT family this year with the Troubadours! She makes her home in Woodstock with her amazing husband and two daughters. From her beginnings in school and community theater throughout adulthood, she has performed in plays, musicals, opera, big band, and jazz. She also enjoys leading church worship and singin
"Mrs. M" is grateful to join the CFT family this year with the Troubadours! She makes her home in Woodstock with her amazing husband and two daughters. From her beginnings in school and community theater throughout adulthood, she has performed in plays, musicals, opera, big band, and jazz. She also enjoys leading church worship and singing in choirs and vocal ensembles. With a BA in music/theater and Master of Music degree, her career has comprised private voice, piano, and acting instruction as well as classroom music and direction of youth and adult productions and workshops. After a few years off from the theater world for her most important "Mama gig", she is beyond thankful to introduce her daughters to the Storytellers stage within a safe, Christian community where they can glorify God together.
Kris bryant - Troubadour Asst. Director
emily gail miller - Troubadour Director
Kris bryant - Troubadour Asst. Director
Kristyne is excited to join CFT this fall with her daughters and get re-involved in the world of theatre! Kris was heavily involved in drama from high school through college and beyond, doing everything from acting and producing, to lighting and sound, even dabbling in playwriting. In college, she was the founding charter member for the s
Kristyne is excited to join CFT this fall with her daughters and get re-involved in the world of theatre! Kris was heavily involved in drama from high school through college and beyond, doing everything from acting and producing, to lighting and sound, even dabbling in playwriting. In college, she was the founding charter member for the student activity program, Theatre Aside, and won the Stella Cooksey award for directing. Kris and Michael have four children and have been homeschooling with CC over ten years. The Bryants are active members at Hillside Church in Towne Lake. We look forward to the opportunity to fellowship and praise through the stage!