“Wildman” Phil Rakoci & Samantha Page
"Wildman" Phil Rakoci
Philip “Wildman Phil” Rakoci was born in Casa Grande at the infamous Homako “Hope You Make It” Hospital—right where Water ’N Ice now chills. After bouncing between Tucson and Phoenix as a kid, he returned to Casa Grande in 5th grade and never looked back. Homeschooled in high school and a graduate of Central Arizona College, Phil has spent his life blending education and entertainment, working with colleges, starting businesses, and performing with a cast of hundreds of wild, creepy, crawly, and downright exotic creatures.
A wildlife comedian like no other, Phil teaches audiences why every critter has a purpose—sometimes with a bite (literally). He’s shared the stage with Coyote Peterson, Conan O’Brien, and yes, survived a five-foot alligator attack mid-show.
Offstage, he’s married to his rockstar partner Teddi and parents four wildly accomplished kids. He’s also a performing arts advocate and president of The BlackBox Foundation.
Why is he dancing? Because the kids win—and stepping out of his comfort zone is just part of the Wildman Phil charm.
Samantha Page
Samantha “Sam” Page brings sparkle, humor, and heart to the stage. Born in Waukegan, Illinois, she landed in Casa Grande in 8th grade when her dad helped build the city’s iconic “dryer building.” A CGUHS Class of ’99 grad, Sam also met her high school sweetheart, Jake, and they’ve now been together 28 years with two grown kids and a lively “at-home zoo.”
For 15 years, Sam has taught belly dance with Casa Grande Parks & Rec, helping dancers find their confidence one shimmy at a time. She also works at a local cat rescue with her older son, cares for critters with Wildman Phil and her younger son, and keeps busy housekeeping for clients she adores.
A founding member of the RaMagik Belly Dance Troupe, Sam has performed at many community events—even if the nerves still sneak in. When Wildman Phil said he’d only do this show with her, she took the leap.
Now she’s ready to shine, shake, and support a great cause!
