06/04/2026
Thank you, The Atom!
Lauren Ashleigh Medrano takes comedy seriously in “A Toby Show” this weekend
L.A. | The Atom
CATS Playhouse is all set to open this year’s summer melodrama tomorrow night. “A Toby Show” is a comedy based on the story of Cinderella, starring Lubbock native Lauren Ashleigh Medrano as Cindy. Under the direction of Chris Davis, this will be Medrano’s first appearance in a community theatre production.
“It’s going to be a fun show for all ages,” said Medrano. “Chris is so funny and amazing. He is a great director. He’s really embraced the comedy in this show and made the whole process a positive experience.”
Although she has not previously appeared in a CATS Playhouse cast, Medrano discovered her interest in theatre at Frenship High School. As a sophomore, she played the role of Police #2 in a comedy called “The 39 Steps” and went on to study theatre, speech and education at Evangel University in Missouri. After earning her bachelor’s degree, she returned to Lubbock, where she now teaches theatre at Trinity Christian School.
“I love everything about theatre, including backstage crew work and directing,” Medrano said. “I love being in the audience, too. Every show creates unique memories and connections. All the people involved put so much work into making a great show for others and for the love of telling stories.”
In this version of the Cinderella story, the tale is being told by a country fellow named Toby. Jared Robinson is playing the role of the freckled, red-headed narrator in a style associated with slapstick and old-fashioned traveling tent shows.
“He is perfect for the role,” Medrano said. “It’s funny because you use your whole voice and body to exaggerate the scenes and characters. I like doing comedies because you go big. Everyone is working together to present a fresh take on a familiar story.”
Medrano said she has enjoyed working with her character’s stepsisters, played by Dara Hutchinson and Rachel Holder and Kate Lowry, who is playing the stepmother and providing the costume work. She will also be sharing the stage with Jessip Brentz-Hill as the prince.
“Come out and see this family-friendly show,” said Medrano, “and laugh with us!”
The show opens Friday, June 5 at 7:30 p.m. Evening performances will also take place June 6 and June 12-13. Sunday matinees are scheduled for 3 p.m. June 7 and June 14. Purchase tickets at https://catsplayhouse.ludus.com/index.php.
(Photo by Hayleigh Medrano)
