Spring 2017
International Thespian Society Troupe 213 Presents
Based on “Ragtime� by E.L. Doctrow Book by Terrence McNally Music by Stephen Flaherty Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens Co- Director/ Choreographer Sandi Makofsky
Produced & Directed By: Tom Weaver
Vocal Director Cindi Persichetti
Costume Designer Noel Davis
Orchestra Conductor Tim Keleher
Projection Artist/ Technical Assistant Peter Gambino
Costume Design Assistant Bethany Campbell
Hair/Make-up Design Debra Faye
Mirror Editor Rick Friedman
Set/Lighting Designer Tom Weaver
Technical Lighting assistant David Martin
Sound Engineer Marc Warfel
Showcase/Program Photographer Bill Kovnat
Publicist Lisa Simon
House manager Dawn Zaleski
Box Office Manger Selena Accardi
Student Assistant Administrative Assistant Vocal Director Matthew LaGrou Jacob Ropka Dance Captains/Assistant student Choreographers Allison Shapiro, Sarah Vetesi, Harrison Smith, Jackie Orlando
Flying Effects by Foy A strobe light effect will be used during the performance
Digital/video taping of this musical is strictly prohibited. Please turn off all cell phones. Flash attachments to cameras are strictly prohibited in consideration with the safety of the actors. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. Ragtime is presented through the special arrangement with Music Theater International. All authorized performance materials are also supplied by Music Theater International, 421 West 54th Street New York, New York 10019. Phone (212) 541 4684
Annie,
and now‌
Over the past four years, we have adored watching you light up the stage. Break a leg, and best of luck at Towson! Love, Mom, Dad and Jane xoxo
GOOD LUCK ZOE We are so proud of you!
Love, Aunt Robin, Uncle Steve, Heather & Hunter
To the good people of the Cherry Hill RAGTIME, As Coalhouse Walker, Jr., so eloquently urges in the final moments of our show, "Make Them Hear You". That is exactly what you are doing by your commitment to performing Ragtime as written. The issue is not censorship. It is the conviction to stand tall and raise our voices in the service of truth. The moment we stop doing that, we fail ourselves and our country. A democracy based on truth will forever stand, through thick and thin, hard times and good. A democracy not founded on truth will
sicken and descend into chaos and violence. It's tempting to say "It's only a school show." But that's not the truth. Ragtime is an affirmation about everything that is wonderful and everything that is terrible about our still imperfect nation. You have moved the ball down the field --maybe only a little bit-- but in the right direction.
You honor us and Edgar Doctorow with this production. You honor yourselves as well. Break a leg, Lynn Ahrens, Stephen Flaherty and Terrence McNally
The Ragtime Era was one of widespread invention and discovery. This was a time when social, cultural, and economic standards were reimagined. Technological progress changed the way everyday tasks were done. Artisans disappeared as large factories took their place, mass-producing goods cheaply and far more quickly than the indi vidual skilled laborer, making items like the sewing machine, typewriter, and the Model-T affordable for the middle class. Ragtime music echoed these events with its upbeat rhythm suggesting the excitement of the times, and the brand new syncopated beat mirrored the upheaval felt in homes across the nation as social changes swept away accepted standards. In America, it was the heyday of Capitalism. The country fathered its first billiondollar company during this time. The riches of the country were amassed in the hands of the few, and the 'Rockefellers' and the 'J.P. Morgans' of the country grew increasingly wealthy. The prosperous were investing in politics, helping America transition into the role of a world power. The largest social changes occurring at this time pivoted around women, Blacks, and immigrants. To keep up with the increasing cost of living, working class people sent their women, and often their children, to work and most found work in factories. Inspired by the fact that "common women" were contributing to society in a new way, wealthy middle and upper class women turned their social clubs into political action organizations. The Women's Christian Temperance Union lobbied for the abolition of alcohol while other organizations fought for the right to vote. This newfound outlet for women was merely a taste of what was to come. The children of former slaves were now adults, and as the horrors of slavery faded into memories, the black population continued to face the racism that denied them equality. Black leaders such as Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. DuBois addressed the changing political climate with different messages. Washington encouraged Blacks to tolerate racism while bettering their own station. Washington's White contemporaries embraced this philosophy. DuBois, however, was a major voice of the Niagra Movement who demanded equal treatment of Blacks immediately. The country revealed its prejudice with the Supreme Court decision in v. Ferguson: upholding separate but equal segregation. The ruling defended existing discriminatory laws in busses, trains and at the voting booths. The battle for racial equality would be fought for many years to come. Improvements in transatlantic shipping made passage affordable, allowing immigration into America to reach new heights. Expecting a world of opportunity, working class immigrants flooded the country, creating a surplus of wage laborers willing to accept meager salaries to support their families. The factories and mills populating the cities were new to America, and there were no standards enforced for laborers nor were there rules for employers to follow. Preoccupied with the bottom line, employers allowed horrendous working conditions; as these conditions worsened, the popularity of reactionary ideologies such as socialism and populism began to surge. These movements strengthened labor and trade unions and led to the establishment of the eight hour work day and workers' compensation insurance. The Ragtime Era was a true time of change for the country and is looked back on as a time of growth and discovery for all Americans.
Henry Ford (1863 - 1947) was born in Greenfield, Michigan, and eventually moved to Detroit where he began his work as an engineer. His first automobile, built in 1896, was called the Tin Lizzie. By 1903, Ford found investors willing to support his new car, the Model A. The car sold well to upper classes, but Henry Ford wanted every American to enjoy the luxury of the automobile. To that end, Ford started manufacturing the Model Tin 1908. At first, one Model T took fourteen hours to assemble, still making its price only suitable for the wealthy. By breaking down the automobile assembly process from a few skilled labor positions to many unskilled, repetitive tasks, a method he termed the assembly line, Ford reduced the manufacturing time to one hour and thirty-three minutes. With less time spent making each automobile, the Model T's price was cut in half, making it far more affordable for the general public. By the 1920's, ten thousand Model T's could be produced in a twenty-four hour period. Ford ran Ford Motor Company until his death in 1947.
Emma Goldman (1869-1940) was born into a Jewish Ghetto in Lithuania where she suffered from religious prejudice and economic hardship. At the age of fifteen, her parents sent her to America after she refused to marry the man her father had chosen for her. Goldman found work in a factory as a seamstress and endured first-hand the hardships borne by laborers at the turn of the century. It did not take her long to be disillusioned with America. Goldman began speaking out against the conditions that the poor were forced to endure, becoming the mouthpiece for anarchism in the United States. From 1908 to 1917, she toured the country lecturing before urban crowds. She spoke out in opposition of many established institutions such as marriage, religion, and even property ownership. In 1917, she was arrested and deported to the Soviet Union. Eventually, Goldman made her way back into the United States where she continued to espouse her political philosophies until her death.
Erich Weiss (1863-1947) born in Budapest, Hungary, Houdini immigrated to the United States with his family at the age of four. He had no formal education, moved to New York City to look tor work when he was only a teenager. With factory work seeming to be the only option available to him, Erich changed his name to Harry Houdini (in honor of his magician idol Roger Houdini) and decided to make his living as magician. Houdini's magic shows were not an immediate success. was not until he showcased his illusionist talents during his "Challenge Act" (inviting the audience to pick the situations from which Houdini had to escape) that he became popular. From these challenges, he became known as "The Great Houdini, Master Escape Artist." While there are many myths surrounding Houdini's death, the simplest facts are that the magician collapsed before performance in Michigan and died shortly thereafter on October 31, 1947.
J.P. Morgan (1837-1913) is remembered as one of the most powerful bankers in American history. He formed J.P. Morgan and Company in 1895, and his bank amassed such a fortune that the President turned to him when America's finanÂcial institutions were in trouble. Morgan also founded other conglomerations. including the U.S. Steel Corporation in 1901, America's first billion-dollar corporation. Morgan nuanced manufacturing and mining, and he controlled shipping lines, insurance companies, and communications systems. Morgan collected rare manuscripts and art pieces, which he kept in the J.P. Morgan Li bra ry. A tter his death, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City received a large portion of his collection.
Evelyn Nesbit (1884-1967) an artist's model in Pennsylvania, she was the breadwinner of her poverty stricken family. At fifteen years old, Nesbit insisted that the family move to New York City, where she was cast in Florodora's Chorus, a Vaudeville show. It was there that she fell for Stanford White and met Harry Thaw. Harry Thaw pursued Nesbit, and although she did not like him as much as she liked Stanford White, Nesbit married Thaw. Enraged after learning the details of her previous relationship with White, Thaw murdered him and went to trial. Nesbit stood by her husband during the trial, after which she gained huge notoriety on the Vaudeville circuit. After both her beauty and fame had faded, Nesbit battled alcoholism and drug abuse until her death.
Booker T. Washington (1856-1915) was born into slavery in Virginia. His mother was a slave and he never knew his father's name, only the fact that he was white. After the Civil War, Washington's family moved to West Virginia. Washington found a job working in the salt mines by the age of nine. Later, he became the houseboy for a mine owner's wife who encouraged Washington's education, and even had him placed in the Hampton Agricultural Institute. In 1881, Washington founded the Tuskegee Institute, a school providing industrial education for Blacks. Washington gathered political clout for promoting a non-aggressive campaign to develop Black society. His philosophy was that Black men and women needed to work within the social structure established by whites in order to prove their worth and earn elevated status. In 1895, Booker T. set forth his Atlanta Compromise, outlining a doctrine that accepted segregation. 1910, Washington's prominence inspired many critics, the loudest of which was W.E.B. DuBois. Booker T. Washington passed away in Tuskegee from arteriosclerosis and over 8,000 people attended his funeral.
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All members of our orchestra are Cherry Hill East Students Keyboard Alex Glass Shweta Subramaniam Violin Anna Qin, concertmaster Dana Yi Peter Ma Kevin Chen Mia Thiagarajan Izzy Neville Ryan Bogutz Wesley Wang Viola Molly Miraglia Cello Daniel Kim Bass Elizabeth Bishop Percussion Adam Crognale Kira Mahoney Ben Kornak
Flute Victor Wei Flute/Piccolo Aliya Yu Bb Clarinet/Eb Clarinet Kaitlyn Boyle Bb Clarinet Ben Riesenbach Soprano/Alto Saxophone Caleb Murtha French Horn Claire Handley Dan Kelly Trumpet Brooke Treiman Christopher Bruce Liz Perlman Cate Marcelli Trombones Sam Donsky Katie Cotter Tuba/Baritone Horn Matthew Young
“Ragtime”…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………Company “Goodbye, My love”……………………………………………………………………………………………………….……………Mother “Journey On”…………………………………………………………………………………………………..…..Father, Mother, Tateh “Crime of the Century”…………………………………………………………………………Evelyn Nesbit, Jury, Judge, Press “What Kind of Woman”…………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………Mother “A Shtetl iz Amereke”……………………………………………………………………………………..……Tateh and Immigrants “Success”……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………..Tateh “His Name Was Coalhouse Walker”………………………………………………………….……………………………..Coalhouse “The Getting’ Ready Rag”………………………………………………………………Coalhouse and the people of Harlem “Henry Ford”…………………………………………………………………………………………………….....Henry Ford, Company “Nothing like the City”……………………………………………………………….……Tatah, Little Girl, Mother, Little Boy “Your Daddy’s Son”…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…….Sarah “New Music”……………………………………………………….….Coalhouse, Sarah, Father, Mother, Younger Brother “The Wheels of a Dream”…………………………………………………………………………….……………..Coalhouse, Sarah “The Night That Goldman Spoke at Union Square”……………………………Emma Goldman, Younger Brother “Gliding”……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…………………Tateh “Justice”……………………………………………………………………………………………………..…………………..……….Coalhouse “Till We Reach That Day”……………………………………………………………………………Sarah’s Friend, Full Company “Coalhouse’s Soliloquy”………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…..Coalhouse “Coalhouse Demands”…………….……Coalhouse, Willie Conklin, Sarah’s Friend people of Harlem, Company “What a Game!”...................................................................................................................Father and Fans “Atlantic City”……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………Company “Buffalo Nickel Photoplay, Inc”……………………………………………………………………………………………..………….Tatah “Our Children”……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……Tatah, Mother “Sarah Brown Eyes”………………………………………………………………………………………………………..Coalhouse, Sarah “He Wanted to Say”…………………………………………………………………………………………………….…..Emma Goldman “Back to Before”……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………Mother “Look What You’ve Done”……………………………………………………………………………………….…………..Vigil Women “Make Them hear You”……………………………………………………………………………………………………..……..Coalhouse “Epilogue”……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…….Full Cast Company
The dictionary cannot fully capture the essence of ragtime music. What made ragtime unique at the turn of the century was the playfulness of its melodies written in 2/4 time. After establishing a "square" bass beat, the melody would blend quarter, eighth, and sixteenth notes so that the phrases would begin and end unexpectedly for the listener. Ragtime melodies often ignored the downbeat while emphasizing the off beats, creating an effect called syncopation. Ragtime music was originally composed for the piano, and it was not until later in the ragtime craze that pieces were composed for bands. Ragtime evolved from cakewalk dance music and no one person can be credited with the invention. The Cakewalk was a traditional dance created by black slaves living on southern plantations. Over time, black musicians accompanying these dances added variations and improvisations until finally, ragtime was horn. Variations of the traditional 'rag' include: "Cakewalk Rags," the most common type of ragtime music and the most danceable; "Bordello Rags," which arc slow and romantic; and finally, "Firework Rags," which arc played extremely quickly and showcase a musician's finesse. The ragtime music we know today became popular beginning in the 1890's. White composers first published ragtime; however, was not commercially popular until Scott Joplin, black musician and composer, propelled ragtime music into the mainstream. Joplin and his contemporaries, James Scott and Joseph Lamb, were able to put on paper for middle class white society what had been popular black communities for years. These compositions established ragtime as the first American style music. As musicians began to improvise on both the melody and bass lines traditional ragtime pieces, the music began transition its The trend improvising ragtime compositions accelerated after the death of Scott Joplin in 1917, and ushered in what would later become known as the Jazz Age.
Ragtime: definition Pronunciation: ˈraɡˌtīm Function: noun Etymology: probably from ragged + time Date: Rhythm characterized strong syncopation in the melody with a regularly accented accompaniment. Time is characterized by syncopation in many African-American melodies.
Red Cast
White Cast
Katherine Trauger …..….. Mother …………..….. Courtney Bird Cedric Middleton ..……...… Coalhouse …...…….. Cedric Middleton Jake Ropka …………..…… Tateh …………… Harrison Smith Ashley Cooper …………… Sarah …………...…… Leon Pintel Justin Accardi ….… Younger Brother …… Jack Breslow Ezra Nugiel …..….....…… Father ………….. Kevin Naddeo Spencer Levy ……….....… Little Boy ………… Nick Nothnagel Leah Levin ………….....…… Little Girl ………… Hannah Lehrfeld Jackie Orlando …….…… Evelyn Nesbit ……… Spencer Lincoln Marco Porras …………....… Harry Houdini …….. Marco Porras Kathryn Quay ……...… Emma Goldman …… Danya Trommer Jared Camacho ……… Willie Conklin ………..…… Brett Fox Jayson Borenstein .……… Grandfather ………. Jayson Borenstein Vincent Velasco .. Booker T. Washington .. Vincent Velasco Jake Hoffman ……..… J.P. Morgan ……….. Jake Hoffman Jack Granite ..……… Henry Ford ……….. Seth Treiman Bethelly Jean-Louis …….. Sarah’s Friend ……… Sade Willingham Jared Camacho ..…… Admiral Peary …….. Jared Camacho Vincent Velasco ..…….…… Henson ……….….. Vincent Velasco Thomas Zieger …….. Stanford White …….. Thomas Zieger Jackson Feudtner …….. Harry K. Thaw …….. Jackson Feudtner Kevin Naddeo …………. Whitman ……....…… Ezra Nugiel Cassie Cuddihy …….……… Brigit ………….… Cassie Cuddihy Isabel Kaufman …….…… Kathleen ……….… Isabel Kaufman Sung Kwang Oh ……….…… Judge …….……… Sung Kwang Oh Jackson Feudtner ……… Jury Foreman ……… Jackson Feudtner Jayson Borenstein …. New Rochelle Conductor …. Jayson Borenstein Sung Kwang Oh ……….. Conductor …..…… Sung Kwang Oh Seth Treiman …. Vice Presidential Candidate …. Seth Treiman Victoria Young .…. Baron’s Assistant ….. Emma Stopek Sarah Vetesi …………… Clerk …………… Sarah Vetesi Jake Hoffman …………… Umpire …………… Jake Hoffman Cate Harding ……… Welfare Official ……… Cate Harding Jessica Haya …………Reporter #1 ……… Jessica Haya Thomas Zieger …………Reporter #2 ……… Thomas Zieger Cameron Orefice ..…..…. Reporter #3 …….…. Cameron Orefice Amanda Kahn ……..… Reporter #4 …….…. Amanda Kahn Nala Jackson ……… Black Lawyer ……… Nala Jackson Arianne Martin .…… White Attorney ……. Arianne Martin Kriswel Rivera …………..… Man ……………… Kriswel Rivera Maureen Garafano …. Town Hall Beurocrat …. Maureen Garafano Annie Lipsett ..…. Second Beurocrat …… Annie Lipsett Elise Baratta …… Houdini’s Mother …… Elise Baratta Sade Willingham …..Harlem Women…. Sade Willingham Bethelly Jean-Louis Bethelly Jean-Louis Jackson Feudtner …Conklin’s Firemen… Marco Porras Kriswel Rivera Jordan Jackson ….Little Coalhouse….
Jackson Feudtner Marco Porras Kriswel Rivera Jordan Jackson
Seth Treiman Thomas Zieger
…..Policemen…..
Seth Treiman Thomas Zieger
Seth Treiman Thomas Zieger Marco Porras
…..Secret Service…..
Jack Granite Thomas Zieger Marco Porras
Press & Jurors… Jack Breslow, Harrison Smith, Marco Porras, Seth Treiman Justin Accardi, Ezra Nugiel, Brett Fox, Jackie Cotter, Cassie Cuddihy Secret Service… Seth Treiman, Marco Porras, Thomas Zieger, Jack Granite,Marco Porras, Thomas Zieger Newsboys… John Schultz, Thomas Zieger, Aliza Kotzen Baseball Fans… Harrison Smith/Jake Ropka, Justin Accardi/Jack Breslow, Brett Fox, Kevin Naddeo/Ezra Nugiel, Spencer Levy/Nick Nothnagel, Jack Granite, Seth Treiman, Marco Porras, Jackson Feudtner, Thomas Zieger, Sung Kwang Oh, Jared Camacho, John Schultz, Jake Hoffman, Jayson Borenstein People of New Rochelle Kevin Naddeo Jared Camacho Jack Granite Marco Porras Jackson Feudtner Spencer Lincoln Jayson Borenstein Nick Nothnagel Maureen Garafano Cassie Cuddihy Jackie Cotter Isabel Kaufman Devin Boyle Zoe Benson Morgan Pierce Jack Breslow Jackie Orlando Cameron Orefice Amanda Kahn Arianne Martin
Justin Accardi Ezra Nugiel Jared Camacho Jack Granite Marco Porras Jackson Feudtner Jayson Borenstein Katherine Trauger Spencer Levy Maureen Garafano Cassie Cuddihy Jackie Cotter Isabel Kaufman Devin Boyle Zoe Benson Morgan Pierce Jackie Orlando Cameron Orefice Amanda Kahn Arianne Martin
People of Harlem Alicia Cosenza Vincent Velasco Marco Porras Bethelly Jean-Louis Harrison Smith Nala Jackson Emma Stopek Sade Willingham Alicia Cosenza Allison Shapiro Courtney Bird Leon Pintel Gianna Douglass
Alicia Cosenza Vincent Velasco Ezra Nugiel Marco Porras Bethelly Jean-Louis Nala Jackson Emma Stopek Sade Willingham Alicia Cosenza Ashley Cooper Allison Shapiro Gianna Douglass
Get Ready Rag Harlem Seth Treiman Jack Breslow Brett Fox Jackie Orlando Cameron Orefice Cate Harding
Seth Treiman Sarah Vetesi Brett Fox Jackie Orlando Cameron Orefice Cate Harding
Coalhouse’s Gang Harrison Smith Marco Porras Sade Willingham Bethelly Jean-Louis Nala Jackson
Ezra Nugiel Marco Porras Sade Willingham Bethelly Jean-Louis Nala Jackson
Immigrants Sung Kwang Oh Tori Ruth Danya Trommer Hannah Lehrfeld Aliza Kotzen Makenna Durbin Alexandra Pollack Adiel Davis Melissa Oberstaedt Gianna Salvato Lauren Abrams Alyssa Santos Haley Lopez Elise Baratta Isabella Iacono Victoria Young John Schultz Kriswel Rivera Maia Venuti Seth Treiman Sarah Vetesi Brett Fox Cate Harding Jessica Haya Hannah Sullivan Alice Kolychev Annie Lipsett
Sung Kwang Oh Jake Ropka Tori Ruth Kathryn Quay Leah Levin Aliza Kotzen Makenna Durbin Alexandra Pollack Melissa Oberstaedt Adiel Davis Gianna Salvato Lauren Abrams Haley Lopez Alyssa Santos Elise Baratta Isabella Iacono Victoria Young John Schultz Kriswel Rivera Maia Venuti Seth Treiman Sarah Vetesi Brett Fox Cate Harding Jessica Haya Hannah Sullivan Alice Kolychev
Production Stage Manager………..…………………………………………………………Allison Donahue Assistant Stage Managers…………………………………………………Taryn Rumell, Danny Naddeo Student Technical Directors…………..………………Jeff Haaz, Ethan Arcaroli, Chris Nothnagel Assistant Student Technical Directors………………….……………Adam Kriesman, Ben Vaupen Scenic Artist................................................................................................Sam Brenner Sound Engineer..………………….………………..Hunter Berkowitz, Ian McClellan, Lucas Warfel Master Electrician………………………………………………..………………………………….Naomi Burton Projections Operator…………………………………………………………………………………Sam Brenner Master Carpenters…………….…………Kevin Stankiewics, Lucas Valladares, Adam Kriesman Wardrobe Managers……………………………..………Gabi Stahl, William Lewis, Sadie Donahue Properties Managers………………………………………….…………………………..….….Danny Naddeo Showcase Designer…………………..……………Spencer Levy, Allison Shapiro, Isabel Kaufman Publicity Manager…………………………………………….….………………………………………Ezra Nugiel Assistant Master Carpenters….……Kathryn Quay, Sammie Schottenfeld, Ryan O’Donnell Assistant Master Electricians.……………………Brian Aylesworth, Julia Holtzman, Erin Quay Assistant Scenic Artist…………………………………………………………………………………Shani Hemo Paint Charges……………………….…….…Elise Baratta, Tori Ruth, Ilana Arougheti, Shina Park Assistant Sound Engineers…………………………………………………………...……….….Jacob Bloom Make-Up Manager……………………………………………….……………………………….Hannah Bicking General Costume Crew……………………………………………….Marisa Weinberg, Nicole Schmitt General Crew…………………..…Penina Oanono, Nicole Wolf, Jess Gurst, Erin Butler, Debbie Goldberg, Kristen Furlow, Jasmine Nop, Jane Lipsett, Liliana Pugliese, Vrinda Vinod, Shaina Kramer, Lee Kotzen, Hunter Hilerio, Addi Mann, Ashley Liu, Andrayah Holmes, Tajae’ Keels, Hatice Kurt, Maddison Nilsen, Zoe Benson, Michael Kumnick, Alyssa Meter, Ryan Boyle, Eli Vaupen, Hannah Kim, Jenny Seon, Jessica Schwartzman, Susan Kramer & Tori Zubrzycki Company Managers……………………...………Jackie Orlando, Jarod Camacho, Ashely Cooper Student Vocal Designer……………………………………………………………………………...Jacob Ropka Student Dance Captains/ Asst. Choreographers.......Harrison Smith, Allison Shapiro, Sarah Vetesi, Jackie Orlando
Time: Start of the 20th century Place: In and around New York City; Also briefly in Atlantic City NJ The Director would like to thank, The Board Of Education, Central Administration, Dr. Dennis Perry, Mr. Mathew LaGrou, Mr. Bernie O’Connor, Dr. John Burns, Ms. Donean Chinn-Parker, Mr. C.J. Davis, Mrs. Marsha Pecker, and staff for supporting the Performing Arts. The Maintenance Staff: Joe Sutton, John Doyle, Anthony Lindor. The A/V Department: Mrs. Louise Head. Secretaries: Mrs. Cecilia Eilola, Jane Abo, Mrs. Debbie Jastrow, and Johanna Scott. The Director is personally grateful to all the parents who were gracious enough in so many ways. They have assisted in costumes, props, cooking meals for the cast and crew, giving dozens of rides to their kids and friends, so on and so forth. Also, a special thank you to Marc Warfel for his help with sound. A heartfelt thank you to the talented production staff, who have shown so much patience in teaching over 140 student actors and technicians the “Art’ of good theater. A special thank you to Sandi Makofsky, Cindy Persichetti, Tim Keleher, and Pete Gambino for helping in so many ways to direct this wonderful play: the production value is so much better because of you. Noel Davis & Bethany Campbell, your costumes are once again, brilliant. Rick Friedman, as always the MIRROR continues to be the best program in High School Theater. Deb Faye, your make-up and hair designs are so believable. Dave Martin, for his expertise in stage lighting. Bill Kovnat, your showcase pictures make us all look good. A very special thank you to Val Aylesworth and the Theater boosters for dinners, refreshments, flowers, souvenir sales, and the box office. Please Patronize Advertisers: When and wherever you shop, please consider these local merchants first. Their support of our young people make these things possible.
Cedric Middleton- (Coalhouse Walker Jr.) – A senior. Cedric is an active member of Stay Tuned, Mime Company and Thespian Society. Recent credits include: Anagnos (The Miracle Worker), Gaston (Beauty and the Beast), and The Tempest (Caliban). He would like to dedicate his performance to his family for their support. Courtney Bird- (Mother-White), a junior. Courtney is thrilled to be in her sixth main stage production at East! Recent credits include Annie Sullivan (The Miracle Worker), Morticia Addams (The Addams Family), and Vivienne Kensington (Legally Blonde). Courtney is grateful to be performing in such a powerful show. Annie Lipsett- (Second Bureaucrat/ Immigrant/ Playbill Advisor) - A senior. Annie is electrified to be performing in her final mainstage here at East. Recent credits include: The Miracle Worker (Viney), The Tempest (Iris), Our Town (Josephine Stoddard) and Flowers for Algernon (Mrs. Mooney). Annie would like to dedicate her performance to her beloved grandma, Judie. Zoe Benson- (New Rochelle Citizen)-A freshman. Zoe is so excited to participate in her first play at East. The theatre program is incredible and she loves being a part of it. Not only does she enjoy acting but being a part of Building the set has been an amazing experience as well. Recent Credits are: Beauty and the Beast (Plate), Sussical (Fish), and the Lion King (Hyena). She can't wait to participate in more shows during her years at East. Jayson Borenstein- (Grandfather) A sophomore. Jayson is ecstatic to be in his fourth Mainstage at East. Recent credits include: The Miracle Worker (Percy), Get Bill Shakespeare off the Stage (Tony), and Titanic the Musical (Henry Etches). He is also a proud member of Concert Choir. Kriswel Rivera- (Fireman/Striker/Immigrant Ensemble) - a junior. Rivera is an active member in East's Filipino Culture Society, and Film Club. This will be his second mainstage production, his mother is very proud of this fact. Hi mom. Alicia Cosenza- (Person of Harlem- Red/White Cast)- A freshman. Alicia is so excited to participate in her first Cherry Hill East High School musical! She cannot wait to see what the future holds in this theatre department! Recent Credits Include: Get Bill Shakespeare Off The Stage (Phyllis), and Xanadu Jr. (Kira). Alicia is extremely excited for this amazing show! Nala Jackson- (Black Lawyer-Red&White) A Freshman, Nala is very enthusiastic to do her first musical at East, and would like to thank the cast for making this such a wonderful first experience. Past credits include: The Miracle Worker (Martha), Get Bill Shakespeare Off the Stage(Gina), Little Mermaid jr. (Princess) Jordan Jackson -(Little Coalhouse-Red&White) A preschooler, Jordan is excited to be in his first musical as Little Coalhouse, His interest include sports, music, and art. Aliza Kotzen- (Immigrant/Newsboy) -A freshman. Aliza is ecstatic to be part of such an amazing show. Past credits include Jane Banks (Mary Poppins), Flounder (Little Mermaid), Smallest Child (Miracle Worker), love to family. MacKenna Durbin- (Immigrant- Both Casts) - A sophomore. MacKenna is excited to be in her second production at East! Recent credits include Beauty and the Beast (Villager), The Little Mermaid (Ariel), and Willy Wonka (Ensemble) Vincent Velasco- (Booker T. Washington - Both casts) - A Sophomore. Vincent is very excited to be performing his second musical at East! Recent Performances include: The Miracle Worker (Crone), Beauty and the Beast (Vocal Ensemble), and the Tempest (Mariner, Shape, Dog) Jacob Ropka - (Tateh- Red) A senior. Jacob is absolutely honored to be playing Tateh for his senior show! He has loved his time in East theatre and wants to thank the cast and crew. His previous credits include Antonio (The Tempest) and Lumiere (Beauty & The Beast). Enjoy the show! Jared Camacho -(Willie Conklin) - a senior who is super excited for ( but nostalgic towards) his last show at East ! You may have recently seen him in "The Miracle Worker" (Percy), 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Dan Schwartz) , or in "Beauty And The Beast" as Lefou! Jared is also a proud member of East singers, Concert Choir, Voce, and Stay Tuned. Tori Ruth- (Immigrant) A sophomore, Tori is thrilled to be participating in her first musical at East! Recent Credits: Get Bill Shakespeare Off the Stage (Ariel/Featured Student) and The Miracle Worker (Alice/Asylum Crone). She is also a proud member of Chansons and GSA.
Lauren Abrams-(Immigrant-Both Casts)- A freshman. Lauren is thrilled to be part of her first show! Best of luck to the cast and crew
Spencer Levy- (Little Boy-Red) a sophomore, Spencer is so excited to be performing in his fourth mainstage show at East. Past credits include: Jimmie Sullivan (The Miracle Worker), Fredrick Fleet (Titanic), and Chip (Beauty and the Beast). He would like to thank his friends and family for all of their support. Jake Hoffman- (J.P. Morgan- Red/White) A sophomore. Jake is excited to be in his 4th Mainstage at East. Recent credits are: Crone (The Miracle Worker), Paul (Lab Theater ‘16), Misha the Bear (One Acts 2016), and Fishman (Beauty and the Beast). Jake would like to thank his family and friends for all of their support Jackie Orlando- (Evelyn Nesbit- Red) Jackie is honored to be playing Evelyn Nesbit. Past credits include The Miracle Worker (Annie Sullivan), Beauty and the Beast, (Babette), The Tempest (Prospera), Our Town (Mrs. Webb), The Nutcracker (Spanish Lead). Jackie is the president of Thespian Society Troupe 213 for the 2016-2017 school year. Sarah Vetesi- (Gettin Ready Rag Dancer, Clerk, Dance Captain) A senior. Sarah is thrilled to be performing in her fourth and final spring musical at Cherry Hill East. Recent Credits Include: The Miracle Worker (Beatrice) and Beauty and the Beast (Silly Girl). Sarah thanks her family and friends for their endless love and support. Jack Granite- (Henry Ford) A Sophomore. Jack is excited for his Second Spring Musical at Cherry Hill East! Past Credits include The Other Room (Christian), Seussical (The Cat in The Hat), and Guys and Dolls (Nicely Nicely Johnson). He is also a proud member of East Singers and Voce. Kevin Naddeo- (Father- White), a sophomore. Kevin is so excited to be in this production of Ragtime! Recent credits include Mr. Anagnos (The Miracle Worker), Ed Summers (Get Bill Shakespeare Off The Stage), and, Mr. Benjamin Guggenheim (Titanic). Kevin would like to thank his parents for supporting him throughout this journey. Allison Shapiro- (Dance Captain/Harlem Enselble) a senior. Allison is beyond excited to be a part of Cherry Hill East's production of Ragtime! Recent credits include: The Miracle Worker (Doctor), Beauty and the Beast (Can Can Dancer), The Tempest (Ariel), Peter Pan (Mrs. Darling) and The Wizard of Oz (Glinda). She is a member of the Belles of East, East Singers, Chansons, and the Thespian Society. Allison would like to thank her family and friends for all their support! Gianna Salvato- (Immigrant- White and Red cast) - A freshman. Gianna is enthusiastic about performing in her first musical at East and to perform in a great show! Jackie Cotter- A sophomore, Jackie is excited to be in her third mainstage production. Recent credits include: Lab Theater, The Miracle Worker, Beauty and The Beast. Jackie is a member of the Belles of East, Lab Band, and the Cherry Hill East Mime Company. Seth Treiman- (Henry Ford-White) A sophomore. Seth is extremely thrilled to be in his second musical at East. Recent credits include: A Doctor (The Miracle Worker), Shape (The Tempest), Ensemble (Beauty and the Beast), Mr. Overmire (Get Bill Shakespeare off the Stage!) and One Acts. He is also a member of Voce and Concert Choir. Nick Nothnagel- ( Little Boy) A sixth grader. Nick is excited to be in his third East performance without entering High school yet. Past credits include: Christmas Carol (ignorance), Peter Pan (Michael), Lion King (Simba) and School of Rock (Shawn). Nick cannot wait to be part of another fantastic East spring Musical. Ashley Cooper- (Sarah-Red) A senior. Ashley is so honored to perform in such a powerful production for her final spring musical at East! Recent Credits include: The Miracle Worker (Kate Keller), Beauty and the Beast (Mrs. Potts). Ashley is grateful to her friends and family for their love and support and would like to thank all those involved in Ragtime for making this the most rewarding experience of her life. Ezra Nugiel- (Father – Red) A senior. It is bittersweet for Ezra to be participating in his 4th and final Spring Musical at East. His recent credits include: The Miracle Worker (James Keller), Beauty and the Beast (Cogsworth), The Tempest (Ferdinand), and Our Town (George Gibbs). Ezra is Publicity Chair of Thespian Society Troupe 213 and a Mime Company manager. He would like to thank his friends and family for their support throughout his four years at East! Cassie Cuddihy- (Brigit/New Rochelle Vocalist) - A sophomore, Cassie is thrilled to be performing in her 4th Mainstage at East! Recent Credits include: Get Bill Shakespeare off the Stage (Fran Caldwell), and The Miracle Worker (Beatrice). Cassie is also a part of Voce, and the CHE Mime Company. She would like to thank for family for all of their love and support.
Spencer Adair Lincoln- (Evelyn Nesbit-white) a senior. Spencer is so thrilled to be apart of the musical Ragtime. Her previous shows include Beauty and the Beast, Tempest, Mary Poppins, and Anything Goes. She is a member of the Mime Company at East. She would like to thank her parents for always believing in her dreams and supporting her to follow her heart. Thank you to Mr. Weaver, Sandy, Cindy, and Noel for a fun 4 years at East! Justin Accardi- (Younger Brother)- A senior. Justin is happy beyond words to be performing as Younger Brother in the Red Cast of Ragtime! Past credits include The Miracle Worker (Captain Keller) and Beauty and the Beast (Gaston). Justin is also a member of Stay Tuned. Kathryn Quay- (Emma Goldman - Red) A junior. Kathryn is delighted to be in her 6th mainstage production at East. Recent credits include The Miracle Worker (Asylum Doctor) and Titanic (Charlotte Cardoza). Kathryn is also a proud member of stage crew, East Singers and Stay Tuned, and is thankful to be part of the show! Elise Baratta- (Houdini's Mother, Immigrant) Red/White Elise is a sophomore and is so excited to be in her second East musical. She really enjoys the fun of rehearsing and putting on these shows. Recent credits include: The Miracle Worker (Blind girl, Crone), Peter Pan (Liza, Pirate) and Beauty and the Beast (Narrator, Featured Dancer) Sung Kwang Oh-(Ensemble) A senior. Recent Credits include The Miracle Worker, The Tempest, and Beauty and the Beast. Sung is also a proud member of SGA, Debate Team, and JSA. He dedicates his performance to God and his family. Jessica Haya- (Reporter 1) - A junior. Jessica is ecstatic to be a part of East's production of Ragtime! Recent credits include: The Tempest (Nymph) and Footloose (Vi Moore). Maia Venuti- (Immigrant-Red/White) A freshman. Maia is extremely excited for her first musical at Cherry Hill East. She did theatre in middle school, and is excited to grow in the theatre department in her years at high school. Victoria Young - (Immigrant/ Baron's Assistant/ Reporter) A senior. Victoria is very excited to be performing in her last spring musical at east. Recent credits include: Aida (Slave), Anything Goes (Passenger), and Beauty and the Beast (towns person). She cannot wait for an amazing show! Harrison Smith- (Tateh-White) A junior. Harrison is very excited about his third spring musical. Past credits include Captain Keller (The Miracle Worker), Beauty and the Beast (Lumiere), and Chip Tolentino (Putnam County). Harrison is also an active member of East Singers, Voce and the Dance Arts Company. He would like to thank his friends, family, and all his past teachers/directors for teaching him so much Isabel Kaufman- (Kathleen-Red/White) A senior. Isabel is so excited to be performing in Ragtime as her last spring musical at East! Recent shows include The Miracle Worker, Beauty and the Beast, and Anything Goes. She would like to thank her friends, family and dog Archie for all of their support! Melissa Oberstaedt- (Immigrant/Juror) A sophomore. Melissa is delighted to be in her third East production. In addition to theatre, she sings with Chansons, Voce, and All State Treble Choir. She appreciates the community groups that have collaborated to make Ragtime such a powerful learning experience. Morgan Pierce- (New Rochelle Ensemble) A freshman. Morgan is very excited to be performing in her first spring musical here at Cherry Hill East! She can't wait for the shows to come and memories to be made. Recent credits include: The Miracle Worker (Julia), and Get Bill Shakespeare Off the Stage (Noelle). Sade Willingham- (Sarah’s Friend- White Cast)- A freshman. Sade has done middle school musicals like Lion King Jr. (Nala) and is very excited to start her first musical in high school as Sarah's friend. She wants to thank her family and friends for supporting her in everything she does. Leon Pintel- (Sarah-White Cast) A senior. Leon is excited to perform in her 6th and final Main Stage at Cherry Hill East. Her recent credits include: ( Wardrobe) in Beauty and the Beast here at CHE as well as (Candy) in Whistle Down the Wind, and Crystal in Little Shop of Horrors at Stagedoor Manor . Leon is also very active in the vocal department. She is on the steering Committee For Voice and would like to thank all of her friends and Family for their support! Katherine Trauger -(Mother - Red Cast): A senior. Recent credits include The Miracle Worker (Aunt Ev), The Tempest (Alonso), Mary Poppins (Mrs. Banks), and Our Town (Mrs. Webb). Katherine is deeply involved in the music department at East and is a member of East Singers and the Belles of East. Katherine is also the principal viola of Cherry Hill East's Symphony Orchestra. She is a five year member of the All South Jersey Chorus and a three year member of the New Jersey All State Choir.
Bethelly Jean-Louis- (Sarah's Friend-Red) A senior, Bethelly is very excited to be in her 6th Mainstage production at East! Past Credits include Miracle Worker(Viney), Tempest (Miranda), One Acts( This Is A Test and A Moment in Time), Our Town, Aida ( Woman of the Palace), Flowers for Algernon (Doris). Bethelly is also Secretary of Thespian Board. She would like to thank her family and friends for their support. Though she is sad it is her last spring musical, she wishes the cast, crew, and orchestra the best of luck for an amazing performance. Marco Porras- (Houdini- Red/White) A freshman. Marco is a music enthusiast who loves musical theatre. He hopes to become a professional actor. Recent productions include Get Bill Shakespeare off the stage (Ray) and Orphie and the book of heroes (Sophocles). Leah Levin- (Little Girl- Red) A sophomore. Past Credits include: The Miracle Worker (Helen Keller), Lab Theatre'16 (Joan), One Acts'16, and Beauty and the Beast (Chip). Leah is very excited to be a part of this amazing production. Jack Breslow- (Younger Brother-White) A senior. Jack is very excited to be apart of this wonderful production. He is an active member of Voce, East Singers, and our Thespian Society. Past Credits include: Cogsworth (Beauty and The Beast) and Sebastian (The Tempest). Break a leg to the cast and crew! Emma Stopek- (Baron’s Assistant/Harlem) A Sophomore. Recent shows include Avenue Q (Featured Dancer), Beauty and the Beast (Can Can Dancer), Annie Jr. (Lily St. Regis), and Peter Pan Jr. (Tiger Lily). Emma is so excited to be a part of this monumental show and she dedicates her performance to her family. Maureen Garafano- (Town Hall Beurocrat- Red and White Cast)- A Junior. Maureen is excited to be performing in her third spring musical at East! Recent credits include The Miracle Worker (Martha), Titanic (Madame Aubert) , Beauty and the Beast (Ensemble)
Congratulations Amanda Kahn & The cast & crew of
Shake a leg, Mands!! Love, Bubbi & Bill, Grandmom & Grandpop, Dad, Suzanne, Mom, Sarah, David & Lauren
Danny Naddeo- (Assistant Stage Manager/Prop Master) A senior. Danny is very excited and saddened to be working on his final Mainstage show at East. Recent credits include: The Miracle Worker at East (Assistant Stage Manager/Prop Master), Get Bill Shakespeare Off the Stage at East (Stage Manager/Prop Master), and Beauty and The Beast at East (Prop Master). Danny is very honored and blessed to have met and worked with such a talented group of techies and actors/actresses, and he wishes them the best in the coming years. Lucas Warfel- (Assistant Sound Engineer) - A junior who has been apart of stage crew since his Sophomore year. He has worked in the following shows: "The Tempest" (assistant sound engineer), "Beauty and the beast" (sound engineer), One Acts (master sound engineer), and "The Miracle Worker" (sound engineer) Chris Nothnagel-( Student Technical Director) A senior. Chris is thrilled to be working on the outstanding show Ragtime this spring. Recent credits include: The Miracle Worker, Beauty and the Beast, Tempest, Anything Goes, Our Town, Aida, flowers for Algernon and many more. He is sad that this will be his last musical at East, but is excited to enter a new chapter at Temple University. Sam Brenner- (Scenic Artist) A senior, Sam is so excited to be working his final main stage production here at East. He would like to thank all of the past scenic artists who have helped him to get where he is today. He is most proud of his work on: Anything Goes, Beauty and the Beast, and the Miracle Worker. He would also like to thank all of his painter helpers, especially Shani Hemo, without whom none of this would be possible. You can catch him at Johnson & Wales University this coming fall. Gabriela Stahl- (Wardrobe Manager) A senior. Gabi is SEW happy to be a member of the production team for Ragtime! Her previous credits include The Miracle Worker, Beauty and the Beast, The Tempest and Anything Goes. She is also a proud Thespian and member of East Singers and Chansons. She is extremely grateful to Mr. Weaver, Mrs. Campbell, Mrs. Faye and of course Noel Davis for guiding her and the rest of tech crew. She hopes you have an aweSEAM time seeing the show! William Lewis- (Wardrobe Manager) A senior. William is ecstatic to be involved in his fifth mainstage production at east, but it is a bittersweet moment as this will be his last. Recent credits include: The Miracle Worker (Wardrobe Manager), Beauty and the Beast (Costume Tailor), and Anything Goes (Costume Tailor). William would like to thank Noel and Mrs. C for their continued support and guidance and his fellow costumers for being such great people to work with. Shani Hemo- (Assistant Scenic Artist) has joined stage crew her freshman year and as a sophomore become the assistant scenic artist. She has participated in the production of last year’s Tempest, Beauty and the Beast and this year’s Get Bill Shakespeare off the Stage, Miracle Worker and Ragtime. She is sad to see this year fly by so fast but she cannot wait to see everyone again in next year’s performances. Jeff Haaz-(Student Technical Director )A senior. Jeff is excited to be a Student Technical Director for Ragtime. Yet the experience will be bittersweet since it will be his last mainstage production at East. Recent credits include Aida (general crew), Anything Goes (Asst. Master Carpenter), Beauty and the Beast (Master Carpenter), and The Miracle Worker (Asst. Technical Director). Hunter Berkowitz has been involved in the Theater Department Since his Freshman year. He has been leading the Sound Department Since his Junior Year. His favorite productions include The Miracle Worker, Beauty and the Beat as well as Our Town.
Tom Weaver (Director, Light and Set Designer) is in his 40th year at Cherry Hill East HS.. Mr. Weaver has designed and/or technically directed every Mainstage show since 1977. He has also enjoyed directing a number of productions: Death of a Salesman, M*A*S*H*, Inherit the Wind, You Can’t Take It With You, The Man Who Came To Dinner, To See The Stars, Romeo and Juliet, The Crucible, Fiddler on the Roof, A Mid Summer Night’s Dream, Man of La Mancha, Pippin, A Christmas Carol, Singin’ In the Rain, The Skin Of Our Teeth, Peter Pan, Flowers for Algernon, Aida, Our Town, Anything Goes, The Tempest, Beauty and the Beast, and The miracle Worker. Mr. Weaver also created our East Lab Theater Program in 1984. Other duties include producing the East One Act Play Festival where the East Theater program has enjoyed “Best Play” honors many times in the tri-state festivals and also enjoys directing the East Mime Company, now in its 39th year. He is the advisor of the East Thespian Society Troupe 213. Outside of East Mr. Weaver’s directing or set design work can be seen at Mainstage Center for the Arts, where he just recently directed Titanic this past summer. He also has enjoyed designing many shows for Voorhees Theatre Company and Glassboro High School. Mr. Weaver is well known throughout the Delaware Valley where he has designed and directed over 400 shows. He has also been nominated for Best Set and Lighting Design by Paper Mill’s Rising Star Award program for his work here at East and Glassboro High School. Most recently, last year’s Fall production of The Tempest won “Best Overall Production in the state of New Jersey” at the 2015-2016 Foxy Awards. “Mr. Weaver is a graduate of Rowan University (Glassboro State) with a BA degree in Speech and Theatre. He would like to say, with much love, thank you to his wife for supporting his love for theatre. Also a big hug to his children, Tom Jr., Erin and Aaron, Robert and Christine, and Caitlin. He is also the proud grandfather of Lilly, Maisie, Christopher, Charles Thomas, and Lylah.
Sandi Makofski (Co-Director) I guess you could say that Sandi has always had a flair for the dramatic. It’s in her DNA. Her grandfather was a Vaudevillian performer who began teaching her to tap at the age of 18 months. From that moment on, the highly energetic, overly dramatic child found her niche in life. Her passion for all things performance grew but so did her interest in working the opposite side of the audition table. She went to Montclair State University and after graduating with a BA in Speech and Theater Arts she made the switch from performing to working as part of the creative staff in both musicals and straight plays. She has worked as a freelance director/choreographer for many years in theaters throughout NJ and NY and has loved every second of her job. She currently holds the positions of Drama Director at Carusi Middle School and Resident Director at Voorhees Theatre Company. Sandi has run out of fingers and toes to count the number of productions she has done at Cherry Hill East so clearly, working here has been one of the great loves of her life. This theater department is home to so many eager and talented individuals. It is a joy to work with them and watch them grow. She is eternally grateful to Tom Weaver and the remarkable production staff, not to mention her 4 dance captains extraordinaire! Thanks to everyone and may we all take the lessons learned in this poignant and truthful account of our past and use them to better ourselves in our future.
Bill & Kim Pierce Aveqail, Marlin, Hans Carino Joe & Mia Abat Cherry & Ray Rivera The Kovnat Family
Timothy Keleher (Conductor) graduated magna cum laude from the University of the Arts (formerly Philadelphia College of Performing Arts). Formerly Principal Trumpet with the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra and Symphony Brass Quartet, he has also been Music Librarian and Administrator for the Opera Company of Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Singers. He was selected as a Conducting Fellow for the Juilliard Conductors Workshop for Music Educators in 2011. He has performed at Harrahs, the Tropicana, the Hilton, Showboat casinos and House of Blues in Atlantic City with headliners including the Four Tops, the Temptations, Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, Diahann Carroll, Eddie Holman, Peter Cetera, comedians Bob Newhart, Don Rickles, and jazz piano legend Sam Dockery. He directs the High School East Jazz Band and Jazz Standards Group. These ensembles have earned competitive awards in addition to performance invitations from local and national venues, community leaders and elected officials. The Pit Orchestra has received several nominations and awards from the New Jersey Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Program. The marching band program has grown to an award-winning program that has represented Cherry Hill Public Schools throughout the region. Mr. Keleher also directs the Cherry Hill East Wind Symphony and teaches Advanced Placement Music Theory. He is a published composer and also a Cum Laude Society faculty member. He received an Award for Excellence in Teaching from the New Jersey Symphony Master Teacher Collaborative in 1993-94. The Cherry Hill East Symphony made its debut performance at Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center in December 2009, returning two more times in March 2011 and May 2012. In 2013 the Cherry Hill East Symphony Orchestra won overall “Exemplary” award in a New Jersey state-wide competition. This award included an opening concert performance with the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra. In February this year, the Symphony Orchestra performed at the Capital Orchestra Festival in the main concert hall at Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.
1st place winner:
2nd place winner:
Ashley Cooper
Spencer Levy
Thank you so much!! Cherry Hill High School East Administration Principal: Dr. Dennis Perry Vice Principal: Dr. John Burns Vice Principal: Mr. Matthew La Grou Vice Principal: Ms. Donean Chinn-Parker Vice Principal: Mr. Bernie O’Connor Supervisor of English, Biology, and Science: Ms. Marsha Pecker Director of Guidance: Mr. Jim Riordan Cherry Hill Public Schools Administration Superintendent: Joseph Meloche Assistant Superintendent: Dr. Joseph Campisi Business Administration: Lynn E. Shugars Director of Pupil Services: LaCoyya Weathington Director of Curriculum: Farrah Mahan Director of Human Resources: Nancy Adrian Director of Support Operations: Don Bart Public Information Officer: Barbara Wilson
Board of Education – Board Members J. Barry Dickinson, PhD - Board President Eric Goodwin - Board Vice President Kathy Judge Carol A. Matlack Lisa Saidel Jane Scarpellino Ruth Schultz Ken Tomlinson, Jr. Edward Wang, PhD
Noel Davis (Costume Designer) This is Noel’s 13th year as costume designer for Cherry Hill High School East. Noel has also designed costumes for regional theaters and community theaters in the South Jersey area. Noel is thrilled to be collaborating with Bethany Campbell as her co-designer. Bethany’s experience and creativity are truly an asset to the look of RAGTIME. Noel holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a New Jersey School Nurse Certificate. She holds a full time position as a school nurse for YALE Schools. As always, Noel would like to thank all the parent volunteers for their assistance with the big endeavor of creating costumes for RAGTIME. She would also like to thank her husband, Don, for his love and patience while she pursues her passion of costuming. Debra M. Faye (Make-Up Designer and Coordinator) has a B.A. in theatre from the University of Maine and a M.A. in theatre from the University of Connecticut. A theatre generalist with more than 25 years experience, Debra has worked as a theatre teacher, designer, director, actor, and make-up artist. Her teaching credentials include The Taft School in Watertown, CT; Westtown School in Westtown, PA, and the University of Connecticut at Storrs. In addition to her work on various productions here at EAST over the last five years, Debra also is the Make up Designer and Coordinator for Mainstage Center for the Arts. She has worked for various professional, regional, community, and educational theatres in the area, including the Ritz Theatre in Oakland, the Adrienne, and Walnut Street Theatres (Studio) in Philadelphia. In addition to her commercial and film work, Debra teaches workshops in stage make up for various high schools throughout the tri -state area. One of her latest projects was partnering with BRUCE PRODUCTIONS and the American Cancer Society to create zombie make up for THE ZOM PROM in Wilmington, DE. Peter Gambino (Assistant Director and Projectionist) has worked as a writer, filmmaker, graphic artist and technical assistant. In 2011 he earned an MFA in Creative Writing from Rutgers University, Camden. Since then he's taught screenwriting and video production at Rutgers and become involved with its theater program. In 2015, his projection work for Cherry Hill East's The Tempest earned a Foxy from Montclair State University for best Media Integration and Effects. His first novel is actively seeking publication, and his home is infested with guinea pigs. Cindy Persichetti (Vocal Director) is thrilled to a part of THE CHHSE production of Ragtime! She taught in the Cherry Hill Schools for 26 years as vocal music teacher. Her last position was a vocal director at Cherry Hill East HS. There she had a mixed choir, an advanced women’s choir, a male acapella group and an advanced bell choir. She has served as vocal director and orchestra director for Tommy at Cherry Hill HS East and also for Annie and Oz at the Voorhees Theater Co. She has been vocal director for numerous musicals at CHHSE and continues to hold that position as well as vocal director at VTC. Cindy has a B.S. in Music Education from Lebanon Valley College with a major in voice, and has studied graduate courses in conducting at Westminster Choir College. Cindy is a private vocal coach to singers of all ages, specializing in auditions for state choirs, theater and college. Bethany Campbell (Assistant Costume Designer) This is Bethany's second year with the CHE theater program. She has been working as a costume designer for the past nine years with Mainstage Center for the Arts in Camden County, and has costumed dozens of shows for children, adults and professional actors. Bethany received her Bachelor's degree in Health Science/English and Master's Degree in School Health Education with an emphasis in Counseling from Central Michigan University. She has worked in University Administration and Adult Continuing Education, but Bethany particularly enjoys the creative challenges theatrical costuming provides. Bethany has had a wonderful costuming experience here at CHE and loves working with Noel, the student costumers, parent volunteers, and the entire Ragtime production staff/cast. She would like to thank the CHE theater family for welcoming her to their program, and thank her family for rearranging their busy schedules so she could participate again this year. "It has been an amazing experience working with this RAGTIME production, and I will treasure this experience for many years to come... Thank you!"
Great job, Danny Naddeo! Love, Nana and Pop Great job, Kevin Naddeo! Love, Nana and Pop From 2 of your biggest fans-From the Prod. Mgt to the singing and acting. It keeps getting better! We’re so proud of you Danny & Kevin for all that you do, but most importantly, for all that you are! We love you!!! Mom-Mom & Bailey Great job painting a beautiful world, Jane! Love, Mom and Dad Jane, very proud of all your hard work! I’ll miss you Annie Congrats to the cast and crew of Ragtime! -The Lipsetts
Nick N didn't know u were such a gr8 “Little Boy” Love MomMom Nick N, Gr8 from Christmas Carol 2 Peter Pan 2 Ragtime ur Fam Chris N, A gr8 TD. Keep making us proud at TU –Alyson & Carly Zoe, you are in the play! Victoria-So proud of our super senior. We love you! Mom & Dad Weav and Gams, Thank you for four amazing years! Love, Annie Nick Nothnagel, So proud of our “Little Boy” Love, Mom & Dad
BENEFACTOR Selena & Jim Accardi Lynda Bascelli Tara Benson Sharon Bird Carol Harding Julie & Michael Levy Stacy & Art Treiman Dawn & Ron Zaleski DIRECTOR Tammy Arcaroli Valerie Bird Ruth & Jeff Brenner Amy & Brett Breslow Faye & Stan David Lori Haaz Karen & Jon Hoffman Sherri & Ken Hoffman & Family Caren Kaufman Sara & Jack Lipsett Michele Lore Ilene & Michael Naddeo Darlene & Francis Orlando Nancy Pleshko Cynthia Russo Salvato Laurie & Michael Smith Glenn Trommer Donna Vaupen Bressler
PRODUCER Allison & Steve Borenstein Stephanie & Chris Cosenza Eileen & Peter Cuddihy Linda & Jeff Lincoln Faye & Gary Shapiro ACTOR Valetta Aylesworth Meredith Berkowitz Maria Contreras Gilda Cooper Dana Cotter Jonathan & Hope Furlow June & Joe Garafano Irene Giman Christine Hallinan Jen & Josh Kotzen Suzanne & Victor Levy Nancy Walker-Hunter David Nugiel Obadiah Schottenfeld Nancy Trauger Tami & Frank Vetesi Barbara Zieger FRIEND Helene & Richard Lees Greg Rouen
Visit us at:
WWW.CHETHEATRE.COM
Little boy on stage, little man in my heart. Love you, Mom Spencer, We are so proud of you! Love, Grandma and Grandpa Congrats Aliza on your first musical at East! Love, Paul Lee, So excited to share this experience with you! XO Aliza Harry, I love to watch you bring your characters to life! M-M Harrison, Break a leg! I am so proud of all your hard work! O Harrison, Follow your dreams! We will be there with you! FAM
Congratulations Zoe Benson We are so proud of you. Love, Grandma & Grandpa
Congratulations Jackie and Katie Cotter & the Cast, Crew, and Pit Orchestra We love seeing you perform together! Love, Mom, Dad, and Brian
Matthew-Way to play that tuba. We are so proud of you! Mom & Dad Victoria and Matthew-You stole the show. Love, Unkee and Alex Chris Nothnagel, Gr8 4 yrs as actor, crew & tech director –Fam Chris N. From Tiny Tim to TD & on to TU Luv, Mom & Dad Chris N. So proud of u. Gr8 job as tech director! Love, MomMom Nick N. Always gr8 “Little Boy” & brother. Luv, Alyson & Carly Congratulations & Have fun! Kriswel! From Hans Keep it up Kriswel! From The Abat’s We are proud of you Kriswel! From Mom, Dad, Kristiana
Shake a leg Amanda! Luv Gmom & Gpop & all the Wilson Family! Good luck Mandalands! Love, Mom You are amazing, Spencer! I can’t wait! Love, Jason Spencer Lincoln, you are the best sister ever! Love, Scoutie “WHEEE” Says the girl on the swing! We adore you, Spence! Spencer Adair Lincoln You are magic “Good Times” Spencer, You are pure joy! So proud. So grateful. Mama & Papa
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Cherry Hill East’s production of GYPSY in March of 1978 marked the inception of “The Thespian Mirror” as the program magazine for productions at Cherry Hill School East produced by the International Thespian Society. The name is borrowed from the historical document discovered while researching in Theatre History classes. First published in 1805, the original was a critical journal by a young aspiring actor, John Howard Payne, who from the age of 14 and or the next 20 years became well known as a performer, playwright, and critic. He wrote 50-60 plays during his career. Of these, the best known include BRUTUS (1818) and CHARLES II (1824). He holds the prestigious position in history as America’s first internationally successful dramatist. Our program title seems fitting then as young aspiring actors before you tonight strive for the success which Payne proved possible even as a child prodigy and since we subscribe to Aristotle’s philosophy that good theatre must truly “mirror” our existence. We proudly celebrate 39 years of MIRROR as the program magazine for our mainstage productions. We thank our advertisers for making this what it is today!
I have been working for the Cherry Hill School District for 13 years and enjoy every second. I am the technology coordinator for Cherry Hill East H.S. I manage the servers and computers in the entire school. Also, I interact with the teachers, staff and students on a daily basis. I am always trying to determine a more proactive way to use technology more efficiently in the school. I am so excited that this is my 18th playbill being produced! It is true that time flies when you’re having fun! Working with Tom Weaver, the cast and the crew is such a blast as well as a huge learning experience. WHAT AN AMAZING TEAM! To my wife, Jaime of 26 years (whom I can’t thank enough for filling in at home for me while I’m creating the Mirror), sons Jordan-21, Hunter17 & Jake-17 really enjoy attending each show. I am dedicating this Mirror to the late, Bernard “Buddy” Mandel, I couldn't have asked for a better father-in-law, grandfather & friend.... To all the graduating students, I hope all of your dreams come true and all the best in your future endeavors! Mr. Weaver, it is truly a pleasure to work side by side with you and the students year after year! I look forward to many more years working with East’s AWESOME Thespian Society!