Alumni and Faculty Shine in Newcity Stage’s 'Players 2025'

PhotoNew City's Stage's annual list highlights influential figures in Chicago's performing arts scene, emphasizing creativity, collaboration, and groundbreaking talent.
The School of Theatre and Dance celebrates alumni and faculty featured in Newcity Stage's “Players 2025: The 50 People Who Really Perform for Chicago.”

Columbia College Chicago's School of Theatre and Dance is celebrating alumni and faculty recognized in Newcity Stage's “Players 2025: The 50 People Who Really Perform for Chicago.” This annual list highlights influential figures in Chicago's performing arts scene, emphasizing creativity, collaboration, and groundbreaking talent.  

Honored Alumni 

  • Caroline Neff (BA '07, Acting)  
    A two-time Joseph Jefferson Award winner, Neff is an ensemble member of Steppenwolf and Steep Theatre companies. She stars in Fool for Love at Steppenwolf this season. 
  • Josh Ocean Thomas (BA '23, Comedy Writing and Performance)  
    Recognized as a standout comedian in Chicago and beyond, Thomas is a leading voice in the comedy scene, regularly performing across the U.S. 
  • Erin Kilmurray (BA '08, Dance)  
    Celebrated for her innovative and high-energy choreography, Kilmurray is the founder of The Fly Honeys, a bold performance group championing queer celebration and inclusivity. 
  • Tyler Anthony Smith (BA '17, Acting)  
    Known for comedic performances, Smith is an ensemble member of Hell in a Handbag Productions and the creator of acclaimed parody musicals. 
  • Jenn Freeman (Po’Chop)
    A former dance student, Freeman’s solo multimedia performance Thick: A Crumbling Freak Show is featured in the upcoming Chicago Solo Spotlight Festival. 

Honored Faculty 

  • Jen Ellison 
    Artistic director at The Second City and a key figure in Columbia’s Comedy Writing and Performance program. 

  • Tommy Rivera-Vega 
    A member of Teatro Vista’s artistic collective and a Musical Theatre program instructor. 

Newcity Stage describes Chicago as a “petri dish for talent development,” with Columbia College Chicago playing a pivotal role in cultivating bold, experimental artists. Our faculty and alumni have proven that success in the arts doesn’t require leaving the city—Chicago itself is a hub for creative breakthroughs.

Read more about individuals mentioned in Columbia’s Theatre blog, The Green Room.  

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