Coming Home: Kali Evonne (Haines) Returns to Millbrook Playhouse
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Kali Evonne (Haines) was part of the “Grease” ensemble 14 years ago.
As the curtain rises on Millbrook Playhouse's 62nd season, you may recognize a familiar face as Kali Evonne (Haines) returns to the place where her career and love of theater started.
Growing up in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania, theater has been a big part of Kali's life as far back as she can remember.
"I was singing before I could talk," Kali said.
It was after seeing "The Secret Garden" at Millbrook Playhouse at four years old when Kali remembers saying, "I want to do that."
At five years old, she began working with Missoula Children's Theatre and performing at Millbrook Playhouse every summer for 12 seasons.
After memorable roles in "Peter Pan", "Seussical the Musical", "Fun Home" and "Rock of Ages", Kali's big break came when she was cast as Dorothy in "The Wizard of Oz" at 17 years old.
"I realized the magnitude of the role when girls came to see the show dressed up as Dorothy," Kali recalled.
Spending her formative teenage years at Millbrook Playhouse helped Kali to grow into the person that she is today. As one of the younger actors, she remembers observing and learning from her fellow actors who were older, more experienced and from different backgrounds.
"I learned everything about theater and about being a human from my time at Millbrook," Kali said.
Nothing lasts forever and after graduating from Shenandoah University, it was time for Kali to go out and explore the world. She had the opportunity to do just that while performing with Celebrity Cruise Lines.
"I met people from all over the world and saw different places that I wouldn't have seen otherwise," Kali said.
For the past two and a half years, Kali has been living in New York City where she appeared at NYC's iconic 54 Below. She was also featured in "The Music of Dirty Dancing" at Flat Rock Playhouse.
While she enjoys the hustle and bustle of New York City, it seemed like the perfect time for Kali to return to Millbrook after an eight-year hiatus. When the call came to audition for "Grease", Kali jumped at the chance to portray a character like Rizzo.
"I love getting into character development and telling a full story," Kali said. "Rizzo has deep layers where she is popular, but also insecure and vulnerable."
Kali confessed to being drawn to characters who are considered to be outcasts. In addition to Rizzo, her other dream roles are Elphaba in "Wicked", Veronica in "Heathers", and Janis in "Mean Girls".
Going from being a part of the "Grease" ensemble 14 years ago to one of the stars of the show is a full circle moment for Kali.
As one of the older cast members now, she feels a responsibility to be a mentor like she had growing up.
"I know that I have big shoes to fill, but I will support the Arts in any way," Kali said. "I want to be the reason why people pursue theater and stick with it."
With her upcoming roles of Rizzo in "Grease" and Mrs. White in "Clue on Stage!" this season at Millbrook Playhouse, Kali is proving that you can go home again.
"Millbrook is my home," Kali said with a smile.