The Ruby Room Series
RHYTHM NATION
The Music of Janet Jackson
The Space
Ruby Room
More about the show
As a true triple threat, Janet has gifted us over the years with music to sing to, dance to and enjoy on screen. The rhythm of our nation wouldn’t be what it is without the contributions of Janet, Ms. Jackson!
The Ruby Room series is hybrid nightclub/concert experience celebrating American music and culture. Cocktails are curated to coincide with the evening’s performance. Join us for martinis, music, and mood…
Cast & Creative Team
HOSTED BY
Linnaia McKenzie
VOCALISTS
Misha Alford
Catera Combs
Maurissa Cunningham
Linnaia McKenzie
MUSIC DIRECTOR
Desmond Mason
LIGHTING SUPERVISOR
Shelbi Arndt
AUDIO SUPERVISOR
Gianna Agostino
Curated by Linnaia McKenzie
Performers
Misha Alford
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You may have seen Misha in MTH’s 2022 Production of Stevie or Misha Unplugged at the Ruby Room. Find some of Misha’s original music on streaming platforms. When Misha isn’t singing she is probably cruising on a ship with her husband, Bryan Alford.
Catera Combs
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Catera Combs is honored to take the stage for the first time in Music Theatre Heritage’s Ruby Room Series. A Kansas City-based actress, vocalist, and dancer, Catera brings a magnetic presence and heartfelt authenticity to every performance. Her passion for storytelling and deep love for music have led her to work on a variety of theatrical productions, commercials, and independent film projects throughout the region. Catera is excited to celebrate the legacy and impact of rhythm, unity, and resilience in this powerful and high-energy production. She dedicates this performance to every dreamer chasing the beat of their own heart.
Linnaia McKenzie
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Linnaia is thrilled to return to the Ruby Room stage after the successful start of her 4th season as the Associate Producer of the Ruby Room Series at MTH. You also may have seen her in MTH’s 2024 production of GODSPELL! When she is not curating the next Ruby Room production, or serving Nonprofit Organizations as a Data Consultant, she is hanging out with her loving and supportive daughter, Genesis. Follow their adventures as Mother and Daughter on Instagram!: @theadventuresofgandme.
Maurissa Cunningham
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Maurissa is happy to be back at MTH and is thrilled to be singing some iconic tunes! Recently graduating Wichita State University with their bachelors of fine arts in musical theatre, Maurissa plans to continue performing and singing everywhere!! Most recently they were in Little Women at MTH and Newsies at The New Theatre. If you would like to keep up with Maurissa you can follow their instagram @Maurissasings (:
Musicians
Desmond Mason
Keys
Bryan Alford
Drums
Jeff Stocks
Guitar
Lauren Williams
Bass
Meet the Makers
Join us as we take our creative team out into the community for these free neighborhood events.