Skip to main content
NC State Home

Playbill | Controlling Interest

Two playwrights think they’ve found the producers who can finally change their lives. A single dinner proves that in theatre, as in life, belief is currency — and experience is everything. Controlling Interest is a fast-paced look at ambition, access and the quiet art of being outplayed.

Who’s Who

David Shoenfeld

DAVID SCHOENFELD

Playwright

David is a playwright whose “second act” in life has been devoted to storytelling for the stage. After a thoroughly satisfying medical career as a dermatologist, I now create plays that explore humor, humanity, and connection. My scripts range from heartfelt comedies to political satire, to concept driven ensemble pieces. With a background rooted in science and empathy, I try to bring a unique perspective to character and dialogue, creating works that balance wit, insight, and emotional authenticity.

KEVIN APONTE

Director

Kevin is a Raleigh-based theatre artist versed in performance, writing, direction, and technical production. Previous roles include Captain Lesgate in Dial M for Murder (NCSU TheatreFEST), Michael in 26 Pebbles (Justice Theatre Project), and John Hale in The Crucible (Henderson Rec Players). Kevin is also a staff writer for Chatham Life and Style, serving as a theatre critic and beat writer for the Raleigh area. IG: @kevin_canwait.

JONATHAN MAXWELL

JONATHAN MAXWELL

Rick

Jonathan moved to Raleigh in 2018 and started acting the following year thanks to Gus Allen and Daryl Ray Carliles at Back-to-One Acting Studio. He owes them a lot for helping him be where he is today – which is here to perform for all of you! (Well, technically he is at home while this is being written) So if he does a poor job, you know who to blame! When he isn’t acting, he’s working… but, when he isn’t doing that, he is making episodes for his show about science and space! (What the what show).

ALLYSON SMITH

Caryn

Allyson has performed in QuickSCRIPTS at University Theatre more times than she can count including a wide range of roles — a 5-year-old girl, an old lady, a grieving sister in the depths of an MLM scheme, a clock, a CIA interrogator, Alexa the voice assistant, and more. Allyson hopes you all enjoy watching QuickSCRIPTS tonight!!

GUS ALLEN

Charles

Gus is a usual suspect at QuickSCRIPTS and at University Theatre’s annual TheatreFEST. Favorite productions include The Mystery of Irma Vep, last year’s Dial M for MurderHolmes & Watson, and 2018’s magnificent The 39 Steps. Gus is an actor and director at various Raleigh area theatres. Thanks to God and the late, great John Allore. 

ELAINE QUAGLIATA

Marion

Elaine is very excited to be a part of QuickSCRIPTS! Past productions include Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike with Cary Players, Fiddler on the Roof with Cary Players, Rumors with Peak Ensemble Players and A Piece of My Heart with Raleigh Little Theatre. Elaine hopes you enjoy the show and thank you for supporting local theatre!