Brian Koerperich, a vagabond creator from Farley, Brian writes songs, stories, myths, and fables. A fever dream blended his many eccentric songs into a single tale that became this play. He thanks his wife Krista, his family, his mother, Aunt Amy, Marlon, and the entire cast for their love, support, and artistry. His favorite part of the process is this troupe—fearless, collaborative, and ready to walk the tightrope together.

Amy Ressler is a lifelong storyteller, educator, and theater-maker who believes play and imagination can change the world. She has spent decades directing theater for young audiences, teaching drama, and creating spaces where people of all ages feel brave, connected, and expressive. She’s thrilled to help her wildly creative family bring A Circus Tail to the stage.

Addison Aronson, musician, artist, and Fair Housing Investigator with Iowa Legal Aid, Addison performs solo and with local bands including Marzipan Mailbox. He enjoys songwriting, poetry, nature, concerts, and time with his beloved cats, Althea and Arthur. Long connected to this community, he’s excited to make his stage debut. His favorite part? The songs—especially the lyrics.

Katie Koerperich (Lady Katie) - Realtor, part-time Spanish teacher, and singer with Boogie Monster Funk, Katie is grateful to create this show alongside her fearless brother and aunt. She loves travel, music, dancing, art, and even rearranging furniture. She thanks Brian for his brilliant musical, her husband Marlon and daughter Ellie for their support, and all her family—and Amy—for bringing the story to life. Sharing this show and playing Brian’s music with her bandmates has been pure joy.

Tom Ressler was born and raised in Dubuque county, and graduated from Western Dubuque High School, where he played several roles in dramatic and in musical productions, playing Tevya I Fiddler on the Roof and Ebinezer Scrooge in A Christmas Carol. After a career in the US Air Force followed by Federal service, Tom retired and moved back to Dubuque 3 years ago. Married to Dianna and father of 5. Tom loves to travel, cook and he plays harmonica and guitar for fun.

Amy Jenkins, Marketing Director for NAMI Dubuque, was immediately inspired by the story when Amy Ressler shared it with her. Originally from Boone and now in Dubuque, she enjoys traveling, crafting, camping, skiing, and hiking. She thanks her fiancé, Eric Prilipp, and is proud to be completing her master’s in Professional Counseling. This show has reconnected her with her passions for singing, theater, and music.

Krista Judge-Koerperich - A DMACC student, mother, wife, and joyful free spirit, Krista is thrilled that her incredible husband Brian wrote this musical. Now living in New York, she loves family laughter, dancing with her husband, and celebrating successes big and small. She thanks Henry, Elvis, Brian, Amy, Linda, Tom, Katie, Ellie, Marlon, and Eva for their love and support. Her favorite part of the show is playing—and seeing Brian smile. “We love you so much, Henry and Elvis!”

Dubuque guitarist Tony Brown loves making music with good people. A seasoned musician with deep roots in the local scene, he brings skill, heart, and a laid-back groove to every performance. He’s excited to join this joyful ensemble and help share Brian’s music with the community.

Scott Wiederholt, an engineer at Rite Hite, said “Absolutely!” when asked to be a pirate. A DIYer and woodworker from Bernard, he loves gaming and dog cuddles. He thanks Lea, Neil, Karen, and his whole menagerie of beloved animals. In his first play, he’s grateful to Amy, Brian, the band, and this wildly talented cast. Arrrrr!