Eli is a 6th grade student at Horizon Middle School in Kearney, and he is thrilled to be a part of another Crane River Theater production. Making his debut on the main stage in Elf the Musical in December 2023 as Michael Hobbs, the little brother of Buddy the Elf, was such a wonderful experience that Eli has been eager to participate in another Crane River show. He is looking forward to bringing the dynamic character of Dill Harris to the stage in Kearney. Other recent roles for Eli are Crush in Disney’s Finding Nemo, Jr., and Horton in Seussical, Jr., both hosted by Crane River Theater in partnership with Loper Launch and Kearney Parks and Recreation. Some of Eli’s hobbies include playing football and planning out his future in the NFL, playing Xbox and board games, doing tricks on the trampoline, and spending time with his friends and his two dogs and cat. Aside from school, Eli also participates in Encore’s Broadway Bound class alongside many talented young actors. Eli would like to thank his parents, his sister Maggie, his grandparents, and all of his family and friends for cheering him on as he pursues the theatrical arts.