Returning designers and new collaborators unite to shape the corps’ next production.
We’re thrilled to announce our design team for the 2027 season, bringing together returning staff members, expanded responsibilities, and three new collaborators. With defined areas of expertise and a shared commitment to collaboration, the team will develop a cohesive production that showcases the talents of the 2027 Crossmen.
Wes Pendergrass returns in the new role of Program Coordinator & Visual Designer. As the central creative voice behind the production’s concept, Wes will guide the development of the show’s theme and work across all elements of the design process. He will also serve as the primary visual designer, connecting the production’s overall vision with its presentation on the field.
Joining the staff as Production Manager, Chris Carrasco will play a central role in translating Wes’s visual design into its on-field realization. Chris will also serve on the visual instructional staff, providing a direct connection between the design process and the performers bringing that design to life.
Grant Underwood joins the Crossmen as Aesthetic Production Designer. Working from the creative direction established by Wes, Grant will develop the overall aesthetic of the production. His work will encompass corps uniforms, field design, silks, and props, establishing a consistent visual identity across the show.
Returning as Aesthetic Production Specialist, Rachel Montanez will transform the concepts developed by Grant into finished designs and production elements. Rachel will also design show logos, additional graphics, and much of the corps’ merchandise, extending the production’s visual identity beyond the performance field.
Michael Raiford joins the Crossmen as Design Consultant. Drawing on extensive experience within the marching arts and in his professional work beyond the activity, Michael will collaborate with every member of the design team. As a creative sounding board, he will offer fresh perspectives, help refine ideas, and challenge the team to explore the full potential of the production.
Mike Huestis returns as Percussion Arranger & Composer, writing for both the battery and front ensemble. Mike brings a longstanding working relationship with John Meehan, built around a shared approach to musical storytelling. Together, they will develop a continuous musical thread throughout the production, creating opportunities to feature performers across the corps while closely coordinating the brass, percussion, and sound design.
John Meehan returns as Music Coordinator, Composer, and Arranger, leading the musical design of the show. John will compose and arrange for the brass and create all sound design, working closely with Mike and the full design team to connect the musical production with the show’s visual and thematic development.
“We’ve built this team so everyone has support throughout the creative process,” said John Meehan. “Adding Chris, Grant, and Michael allows Wes, Rachel, Mike, and me to dig deeper into our specialties while creating together. I couldn’t be more excited for the members of the 2027 Crossmen and the show they’ll bring to life next summer.”
Read the Bios of the Design Team here: Crossmen Staff