American Stage: A RAISIN IN THE SUN Program

POWERFUL STORIES. BOLDLY TOLD. 40 YEARS STRONG.

A RAISIN IN THE SUN

AMERICAN LEGACY SERIES

AN AMERICAN THEATRE MILESTONE

...WILL NOT HAV E OU R D REA M S DEFERR E D

By Lorraine Hansberry DIRECTED BY L. PETER CALLENDER

JANUARY 24 – FEBRUARY 18, 2018 Mainstage Series Presented By:

Lorraine & Neil Franckle

Co-Sponsors:

Beth A. Houghton & Scott K. Wagman

American Legacy Series Show Sponsor: Alfred T. May Gwendolyn & Gordon Johnson

Artist Sponsors: Gail & Bob Hetler in Honor of L. Peter Callender

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2017 - 2018 SEASON • A RAISIN IN THE SUN

727.823.PLAY (7529) • AMERICANSTAGE.ORG

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Inspire.

In a word, Raymond James believes in the transformative power of the arts.

Perhaps the most meaningful thing you can do with success is share it. And when you do that with care and conviction, giving can be an art form – one Raymond James has been practicing since 1962. Today, we carry on the charitable legacy of our founder Bob James in words and actions as we seek to go forward by giving back. LIFE WELL PLANNED.

Raymond James is proud to support the American Stage Theatre Company.

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RAYMONDJAMES.COM/COMMUNITY © 2017 Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC. Raymond James® is a registered trademark of Raymond James Financial, Inc. 17-CC-CR-0362 JPR 3/17

2017 - 2018 SEASON • A RAISIN IN THE SUN

SERVICES & FACILITIES Physical Accessibility: The theatre features accessible parking, entrances, restrooms, and seating.

Displaying a valid disabled parking permit will allow you to park at City metered spaces for FREE, for as long as your event requires, including those posted with time limit signs (green signs). This does not apply to loading zones or otherwise restricted parking signage (red signs).

Large Print Program: Theatergoers may peruse large print programs for each Mainstage production.

Request from House Manager on duty.

Listening System: Theatergoers may enjoy the free infrared listening system from any seat.

Request from Concessions

THEATRE INFORMATION

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Re-entry into the theatre during the performance is not permitted.

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The use of photographic or recording equipment during performances is strictly prohibited.

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Fire exits are located in the lobby and backstage left and right.

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Latecomers will be seated at the discretion of the House Manager at an appropriate interval in the play. Reservation and seat location will be guaranteed only until five minutes prior to performance.

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Guests are not permitted to smoke in any area of the building. Please use the ashtrays in the front of the building to extinguish and dispose of cigarettes.

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Outside food is not permitted in the auditorium.

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During the run of a show, box office hours are Monday and Tuesday from 10 am until 6PM; Wednesday through Friday from 10 am until showtime; and Saturday and Sunday from two hours before the performance until intermission. During weeks with no scheduled performances, box office hours are Monday through Friday from 10 am to 6PM.

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Please read posted parking signs to avoid being ticketed and/or towed by independent lot owners.

AMERICAN STAGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES Michael Alford, Chair Ellyn Angelotti Kamke, Vice-Chair Kari Cooper Mainelli, CPA, Treasurer Robyn Rusignuolo, Secretary Jim Albert Elizabeth Brincklow John Chamberlain Gina Clement

Matthew J. Conigliaro Hal Freedman Claudette Fornuto Andi Gordon Sean Kennedy

Jack Rice, Jr. Scot Samis Cathy Swanson Evan Whittle

AMERICAN STAGE IS SPONSORED IN PART BY THE FOLLOWING AGENCIES:

Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture. (Section 286.25, Florida Statutes). A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Division of Consumer Services by calling 1-800-435-7352 within the state. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval or recommendation by the State.

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MARJORIE PRIME A CAPTIVATING SCI-FI DRAMA

...DEFY OU R OW N M O RTA L I TY

"The age of Artificial Intelligence is not ahead of us, it is upon us. The magic of MARJORIE PRIME is the way in which it uses the evolution of technology to delicately, achingly and humorously expose the vagaries of the human heart and mind."

- Stephanie Gularte (Producing Artistic Director)

By Jordan Harrison Directed by Stephanie Gularte

AMERICAN STAGE/CAPITAL STAGE

CO-PRODUCTION

Starring Janis Stevens (from American Stage hit 4000 MILES)

MARCH 7 – APRIL 1, 2018 #asMARJORIE

POWERFUL STORIES. BOLDLY TOLD. 40 YEARS STRONG.

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2017 - 2018 SEASON • A RAISIN IN THE SUN

TICKETS 727.823.PLAY (7529) boxoffice@americanstage.org

POWERFUL STORIES. BOLDLY TOLD. 40 YEARS STRONG.

Stephanie Gularte, Producing Artistic Director, presents

A RAISIN IN THE SUN BY

LORRAINE HANSBERRY

JANUARY 24 – FEBRUARY 18, 2018 Director

Production Stage Manager

L. Peter Callender

Rachel Harrison*

Lighting Designer

Scenic Designer

Costume Designer

Joseph P. Oshry#

Steven Mitchell#

Catherine Cann

Properties Master

Sound Designer

Jerid Fox

Rachel Harrison

Member of Actors’ Equity Association | #Member of the United Scenic Artists union

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Mainstage Series Presented By:

American Legacy Series Show Sponsor: Alfred T. May Co-Sponsors:

Lorraine & Neil Franckle Beth A. Houghton & Scott K. Wagman Gwendolyn & Gordon Johnson

Artist Sponsors:

Opening Night Hosts:

Gail & Bob Hetler in Honor of L. Peter Callender

Suzanne & Quentin Onstine This project is sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council of Arts and Culture and the State of Florida (Section 286.25, Florida Statutes).

"RAISIN IN THE SUN, A" is presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH, INC. American Stage Theatre Company operates under a Small Professional Theatre Contract with Actors’ Equity Association, the union of professional actors and stage managers in the United States. American Stage is a constituent member of the Florida Professional Theatres Association, the Pinellas County Arts Council, the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Arts Association, and Theatre Communications Group. American Stage enjoys some funding from the Florida Department of State, The Florida Arts Council and the Division of Cultural Affairs. American Stage programming is also sponsored in part by the City of St. Petersburg. American Stage is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

American Stage is a proud member of Theatre Communications Group (TCG), the national organization for the American Theatre.

SPECIAL THANKS: American Stage would like to thank Dean Hershkowitz of MEZE 119 for catering our first rehearsal reception, Nancy & Steve Westphal, Chef Tyson Grant, & Parkshore Grill for catering our opening night reception, Rob Plates for his mood setting music during Opening Night, Tyrone Frame & Mirror, and the volunteers for their support.

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ABOUT THE PRODUCTION

THE CAST

Ruth Younger ........................................ Sheryl Carbonell* Travis Younger ........... Jaiden B. Gray & Elijah Jordan Walter Lee Younger ...................................... Enoch King* Beneatha Younger .......................................... Kiara Hines Lena Younger ............................................... Fanni Green* Joseph Asagai ................................... Patrick A. Jackson*

George Murchison ................................. Troy D. Wallace Bobo ............................................. Cranstan Cumberbatch Karl Lindner .................................................. Gavin Hawk* Moving Men .......................... Cranstan Cumberbatch & Troy D. Wallace Mrs. Johnson .................................................. Dee Selmore

THE SETTING

The Younger family's apartment on Chicago's Southside

TIME

Mid to late 1950's A RAISIN IN THE SUN will be presented in two acts with one intermission.

CREATIVE TEAM

Director ................................................................................................................................................ L. Peter Callender Scenic Designer ..................................................................................................................................... Steven Mitchell# Properties Master ............................................................................................................................................. Jerid Fox Lighting Designer ................................................................................................................................. Joseph P. Oshry# Costume Designer .................................................................................................................................. Catherine Cann Sound Designer ...................................................................................................................................... Rachel Harrison Production Stage Manager ............................................................................................................... Rachel Harrison* Scenic Artists .................................................................................................................... Elysse Helms & Allison Davis Show Art ........................................................................................................... Zulu Painter, Joey Clay Photography, & the American Stage Marketing Team Member of Actors’ Equity Association | #Member of the United Scenic Artists union

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Producing Artistic Director Stephanie Gularte Operations Manager & Associate Artist Jim Sorensen General Manager Tom Block Finance Director Leyla Prior Administrative Associate Colleen Cherry Director of Education & Outreach Tiffany Ford Education Coordinator Marissa Nicole Koch Education & Improv Associate Patrick Jackson Artist in Residence Benjamin Ismail

AMERICAN STAGE STAFF Director of Advancement Stephanie Snyder Marketing & Communications Manager Roman Black Advancement Associate Kara Goldberg Administrative Assistant, Advancement Paige Gilley Box Office Manager Steve Mountan Box Office Associate Jenny Peacock House Manager Taylor McKee Bar Manager Chris Strong

Production Manager Jerid Fox Production Coordinator Rachel Harrison Technical Director Timon Brown Assistant Technical Director & Master Carpenter Robert Creedon Costume Shop Manager Jill Castle Master Electrician Chris Baldwin Costuming Volunteer Jeannine Clark Dunlap Production and Stage Management Apprentice Taylor Sweat Acting & Production Apprentices Tato Castillo, Kody Hopkins, Tarilabo Koripamo, and Courtney McLaren

TEACHING ARTISTS

Kristopher Atkinson, Katie Berger, Cassie Brooks, William Bryant, Alison Burns, Colleen Cherry, Alexandria Crawford, Jenna Felder, Tiffany Ford, Gavin Hawk, Molly Healy, John Huls, Benjamin Ismail, Patrick Jackson, Marissa Nicole Koch, Sadie Lockhart, Patrick McInnis, Sarah Pullman-Atanacio, Matt Schwartz, Ally Thomas, and Ricky Wayne

THE VIDEOTAPING OR MAKING OF ELECTRONIC OR OTHER AUDIO AND/OR VISUAL RECORDINGS OF THIS PRODUCTION OR DISTRIBUTING RECORDINGS ON ANY MEDIUM, INCLUDING THE INTERNET, IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED, A VIOLATION OF THE AUTHOR'S RIGHTS AND ACTIONABLE UNDER UNITED STATES COPYRIGHT LAW. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT WWW.SAMUELFRENCH.COM/WHITEPAPER 8

2017 - 2018 SEASON • A RAISIN IN THE SUN

When Lorraine Hansberry’s (1930-1965) A RAISIN IN THE SUN appeared on Broadway in 1959, the artist became at twentynine the youngest American playwright, the fifth woman, and the only African American to date to win the New York Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Play of the Year. The play represented a landmark. In its authentic depiction of Black American life, and the vivid demonstration of so gifted a creator, cast, and director, it made it impossible for the American stage to ignore African American creativity and subject matter thereafter. In 1961, the film version won a special award at the Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for a Screen Writer’s Guild Award for Hansberry’s screenplay. In 1965, Lorraine Hansberry died of cancer at age 34. As if prescient, in the six years she had between the triumph of her first play and her death, she was extraordinarily prolific. Her second play to be produced on Broadway, The Sign in Sidney Brustein’s Window, was in its early run to mixed reviews, when Hansberry died; the curtain came down on that date. TO BE YOUNG, GIFTED, AND BLACK, an autobiographical portrait in her own words adapted by her former husband and literary executor Robert Nemiroff, was posthumously produced in 1969 and toured across the country. In 1970, LES BLANCS, her play about the inevitability of struggle between colonizers and colonized in Africa, and the impending crisis that would surely grow out of it, ran on Broadway to critical acclaim. During her career as a playwright, Hansberry wrote many articles and essays on literary criticism, racism, sexism, homophobia, world peace and other social and political issues. At her death, she left behind file cabinets holding her public and private correspondence, speeches and journals, and various manuscripts in several genres: plays for stage and screen, essays, poetry, and an almost complete novel.

ABOUT THE PLAYWRIGHT / DIRECTOR'S NOTE

LORRAINE HANSBERRY

m deferred?

What happens to a drea Does it dry up Like a raisin in the sun? de?” rlem' by Langston Hughes ...Or does it explo-Fro m 'Ha A NOTE FROM DIRECTOR L. PETER CALLENDER

What inspires me as a director when I read a play is the same which inspires you, dear theatergoer, sitting in anticipation of this event: a timely story, beautifully told by people who, in some way reflect the familiar; which speaks truth about a situation or culture in a powerful, relevant way. In 1959, Lorraine Hansberry's A RAISIN IN THE SUN made its Broadway debut and almost immediately became an American Classic. It's real. It's pure and honest. It tells of five generations of the Younger family whose dreams never seem to break through the cracked walls and yellowing wallpaper of their 4th floor walk-up apartment in 1950's Chicago. Lorraine, in a letter to her mother wrote: "Mama, it is a play that tells the truth about people, Negroes and life and I think it will help a lot of people to understand how we are just as complicated as they are—and just as mixed up—but above all, that we have among our miserable and downtrodden ranks—people who are the very essence of human dignity. That is what, after all the laughter and tears, the play is supposed to say." ​I couldn't have put it better!​

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WHO’S WHO ON STAGE

SHERYL CARBONELL*

(RUTH YOUNGER) Sheryl was recently seen as Rose in FENCES (Mad Cow Theatre).

Other regional credits include: Calpurnia in TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD; understudied and performed roles of Cleopatra in ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA; and Cassandra in SONIA, VANYA, MASHA AND SPIKE (Orlando Shakespeare Theatre); Reba in YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU and Stepp Sister in DREAMGIRLS (Mad Cow Theatre). Other credits include: Mama Nadi in RUINED (Valencia College Theatre); the Third Spirit in THE MAGIC FLUTE (Orlando Opera Company); and Elizabeth Keckley in CIVIL WAR VOICES (Orlando Repertory Theatre and Dr. Phillips Centre). Sheryl is a voice and piano teacher who received her MME in Music from the University of Central Florida. Sheryl thanks God, her family and her acting teachers for their love and support. www.sherylcarbonell.com

CRANSTAN CUMBERBATCH (BOBO) Cranston is an awardwinning singer, actor, writer, director, producer, and U.S. Talent Olympic Medalist.

In 2010, he won a Michael and LARY Award for best actor in a musical for his role in SMOKEY JOES CAFE and was nominated for a STAR and Jeff Norton Award for his roles as Jim in BIG RIVER (8 O’Clock Theatre), and as Benny in RENT (American Stage).

Other stage credits include: Wolf in August Wilson’s TWO TRAINS RUNNING (American Stage); and Malcolm in an adaptation of William Shakespeare’s MACBETH (Studio@620). Film credits include: If You Only Knew, Loaded Love, Loved, King Charles, No Harm Done, The Serious Student, Nothing Else Matters, Love & Context, and his most recent film, Art in the City. Cranstan currently serves as the Performing Arts Director for Pinellas County Job Corp and is the acting instructor with A.C.T. He is the CEO and Producing Director of his own entertainment company- AmaznCran's Creative Works, Inc.

FANNI GREEN*

(LENA YOUNGER) Fanni was last seen in American Stage’s JOE TURNER’S COME & GONE. A St. Petersburg native, and member of the Theatre faculty at the University of South Florida (Tampa), she teaches acting, voice/speech/dialects, and directs. Stage credits include: Broadway’s MULE BONE, Off Broadway (NY Shakespeare Festival, NY Theatre Workshop, and Ensemble Studio Theatre). Regional credits include: STEEL MAGNOLIAS (American Stage); and YELLOWMAN (Jobsite Theatre). Film/Television credits include: The Object Of My Affection; Drunks; and Law And Order. Additional credits include: Your Real Stories: DECADES OF WORK, ‘SAY WHAT’ play-reading series (Studio @620); director of IN THE BLOOD; dialect coach for VOODOO MACBETH (Stageworks & the Studio @620, respectively).

For USF Theatre she’s directed TROJAN WOMEN, WHAT THE HEART REMEMBERS (which she wrote), IN THE NEXT ROOM, THE ROAD WEEPS, THE WELL RUNS DRY, and GIDION’S KNOT. She and husband Gary Lemons have two kids, a nephew-son, and four grandchildren.

GAVIN HAWK* (KARL LINDNER)

Gavin was most recently seen as Robert Lyon in THE PITMEN PAINTERS at American Stage. Other Tampa Bay credits include: THE FOREIGNER, ART, and BAREFOOT IN THE PARK (American Stage); and DR. JEKYLL AND MR. HYDE (freeFall Theatre). American Stage audiences might also know him as one half of the long-form improvisation duo HAWK AND WAYNE, now performing their latest show, KARAOKE-PROV, every first Sunday in the American Stage lobby. Gavin is a Professor of Theatre at Eckerd College, and earned his Diploma in Acting at The Juilliard School and his M.F.A. in Acting/Directing at California State University, Long Beach. He is a proud member of the Actors' Equity Association. Special thanks to Eckerd College and the American Stage team for their continuing encouragement of his artistic endeavors, and his wonderful wife Peyton and his two amazing children for their love and support.

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(BENEATHA YOUNGER)

Kiara is excited to be joining American Stage this winter! Kiara is a North Carolina native and a recent graduate of East Carolina University where she received a BFA in Musical Theatre. Although she has graced the stage often in North Carolina, this is Kiara's American Stage debut!

Some of her favorite past credits include: Little Inez in HAIRSPRAY (Crane River Theater), Diana in LEND ME A TENOR (Loessin Playhouse), and Patty Simcox in GREASE (Paramount Theatre). She would like to thank God and her family for their unending support! www.kiarahines.com

has written works for FST's Childrens Theatre Series and the DC Black Theatre Festival. He studied with the British American Drama Academy and is a proud alumnus of Morehouse College. Patrick would like to thank his family, friends, and frat brothers for their continued support. GOMAB. OASAASLLS. www.patrickajackson.com

ENOCH KING* (WALTER LEE YOUNGER)

Enoch is an Atlanta native and excited to be a part of this amazing production.

Recent credits include: THE CHRISTIANS (Actor's Express); A LESSON BEFORE DYING (Dominion Entertainment); THE COMEDY OF ERRORS JAIDEN B. GRAY and CANTERBURY TALES (Shakespeare Tavern); (TRAVIS YOUNGER) CONSTELLATIONS (Horizon Theatre). Film/TV credits include: Kevin (Probably) Saves The World; Party Jaiden was most Boat; I Had A Dream; Ir/Reconcilable; Let's Stay recently seen as Together; The Watsons Go To Birmingham; Becky and Blakely in the 2018 Barry; Edgar Allan Poe's Mystery Theatre; The Fighting Charles Dicken's play Temptations; and Drumline. Last summer, he had the A CHRISTMAS CAROL honor to play Emmett Till in ANNE AND EMMETT at at the Straz Center for the National Museum of African American History the Performing Arts, and and Culture in DC. Giving thanks to GOD, my family, will be featured as a supporting actor in the 2018 and friends for all their love and support.

Disney's PETER PAN at the Straz.

ELIJAH JORDAN

WHO'S WHO ON STAGE

KIARA HINES

DEE SELMORE

(MRS. JOHNSON)

(TRAVIS YOUNGER)

Dee received her BA degree from Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University in Theatre Performance and an MS degree from Florida State University in Theatre. Dee has been seen in numerous professional productions including Deloris Van Cartier in SISTER ACT (Round Barn Theatre); Sofia in THE COLOR PURPLE (Westcoast Black Theatre PATRICK A. Troupe); Calpurnia in TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD (Mill JACKSON* (JOSEPH ASAGAI) Mountain Theatre); Mrs. Muller in DOUBT (Crane River Theatre); Motormouth Maybelle in HAIRSPRAY Patrick is thrilled to be (Shenandoah Summer Music Theatre); and making his American Cinderella/Olivia/Nurse in ZOMBIE SHAKESPEARE Stage debut. Credits (Southern Shakespeare Co.). Dee has also performed include: WHITE RABBIT several readings at the National Black Theatre RED RABBIT (Urbanite Festival and performs with the Laughing Stock Theatre); ALICE WITH A Company, A Musically Twisted Cabaret. Dee would TWIST, the title role in ANDROCLES AND THE LION, like to send a thank you to American Stage and the BUTLER, and THE FROG PRINCE (Florida Studio cast and crew. Dee sends a special thank you to her Theatre). Off stage, Patrick is the Education & Improv mother and son for making her possible. “You are the Associate at American Stage and a playwright. He light in my life.” “Thank you, Lord. Bless our show.”

Elijah has no previous stage performances.

He has attended American Stage's summer program for the past two years.

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WHO’S WHO ON STAGE / ON THE CREATIVE TEAM

TROY D. WALLACE (GEORGE MURCHISON)

Troy was most recently seen as Sonny in IN THE HEIGHTS at Westcoast Black Theatre. Other credits include: THE WIZ (Western Michigan University); SIDESHOW (Kalamazoo Civic Theatre); SHOWBOAT (Western Michigan University) He has a B.F.A in Musical Theatre Performance from Western Michigan University. Special thanks to his family and loved ones for their unending support.

Jersey in 2017 where for 24 years she designed and managed the costumes for Princeton University’s theater and dance students. In addition to her theater work Catherine is a docent at the Gulf Beaches Historical Museum.

JERID FOX

PROPERTIES MASTER

Jerid is excited to be in his 8th season with American Stage! After attending Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, where he studied Film Production with an emphasis in Art Direction, he put his knack for imitation and improvisation to use at Disneyland Resort’s Entertainment Department. He then picked up and moved to Florida where he has worked as a Scenic Designer, Properties Master, and Scenic Dresser for many popular Tampa Bay theatres and L. PETER CALLENDER universities. On occasion, Jerid is also an Assistant DIRECTOR Mr. Callender returns to American Stage to direct A Director or Art Director for theatrical productions, feature films, short films, and television commercials.

RAISIN IN THE SUN after directing August Wilson’s His most recent scenic design credits include: JOE TURNER'S COME & GONE and JITNEY to HAIRSPRAY, SPAMALOT (American Stage in the great critical success accumulating 10 Tampa Park); MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING, THE ROYALE, Bay Award nominations and winning 6, including Outstanding Director. Mr. Callender is Artistic Director INFORMED CONSENT, TARTUFFE (American Stage); IN THE GARDEN OF RIKKI TIKKI TAVI, CHARLOTTE'S of African-American Shakespeare Company in WEB including Puppet Design (American Stage San Francisco where he has directed several plays School Tour); and INHERIT THE WIND (Stageworks including TWELFTH NIGHT, MUCH ADO ABOUT Theatre).

NOTHING, A RAISIN IN THE SUN, CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF, ROMEO AND JULIET and CINDERELLA. Other directing credits include: WE ARE PROUD TO PRESENT A PRESENTATION ABOUT THE HERERO OF STEPHANIE GULARTE PRODUCING ARTISTIC DIRECTOR NAMIBIA, FORMERLY KNOWN AS SOUTH WEST Stephanie joined American Stage in 2015 and AFRICA, FROM THE GERMAN SÜDWESTAFRIKA, directed the company’s productions of THE INVISIBLE BETWEEN THE YEARS 1884-1915 (San Jose Stage Company), SAFE HOUSE (Aurora Theatre Company) HAND, GOOD PEOPLE, IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE: A LIVE RADIO PLAY, INTIMATE APPAREL, and August Wilson's FENCES (Solano College at Harbor THE 39 STEPS and performed as Beatrice in this Theater in Fairfield, Ca), and GILDED SIX BITS season's MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING. She has

by Zora Neale Hurston (Word For Word in San Francisco). As an actor, Mr. Callender has performed produced over 90 plays and musicals and directed or performed in more than 75 productions. From as Hedley in August Wilson's KING HEDLEY II, Red 1999 to 2004 she was the Producing Artistic Director Carter in SEVEN GUITARS, and Sterling in RADIO for the Delta King Theatre. In 2004, she founded GOLF, Athol Fugards' “MASTER HAROLD”...and the Capital Stage, the professional theatre company boys, SIZWE BANZI IS DEAD, MY CHILDREN! MY in Sacramento, CA where she was the Producing AFRICA! and several others. He has also performed Artistic Director for nine years. She has been in over 23 of Shakespeare's plays as an artistic recognized with the Arts Innovation Award from the associate at California Shakespeare Theater.

Sacramento Community Regional Foundation, the Arts Management Excellence Award from the Arts CATHERINE CANN & Business Council, and in 2014, she was presented COSTUME DESIGNER with a proclamation from the City of Sacramento, Catherine returns to American Stage having honoring her years of service to the arts in the previously designed THE 39 STEPS and 4000 region. Stephanie is a member of Actor’s Equity MILES. Originally from Washington DC, she began Association. She holds Bachelor of Arts degrees in her career as a costume intern at the Arena Stage Theatre and in Government from CSU Sacramento, in 1973 and received an MFA in design from the and an MFA in directing through the University of University of Texas. Catherine and her husband Idaho. Visit stephaniegularte.com. relocated to the St. Petersburg area from New

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PRODUCTION STAGE MANAGER & SOUND DESIGNER

Rachel is pleased to be working in her 5th season at American Stage, where her favorite stage management credits include 9 PARTS OF DESIRE; the August Wilson Century Cycle offerings from TWO TRAINS RUNNING to JOE TURNER’S COME AND GONE, the entirety of the 2016-2017 Mainstage season, and THE ROYALE. Rachel was honored to receive two Theatre Tampa Bay nominations for Best Sound Design in 2016 for her work on 4000 MILES and THE PITMEN PAINTERS and a third nomination for the same category in 2017 for her sound design for SEX WITH STRANGERS. Guided by a love for experimental, experiential and environmental theatre, Rachel particularly enjoys the challenge of producing and managing theatre in unconventional and unlikely spaces. Rachel is a proud member of Actors’ Equity Association and The Stage Managers’ Association.

STEVEN MITCHELL# SCENIC DESIGNER

Steven would first and foremost like to thank his terrifically talented jewelry/fountain designing wife, Traer Price. Previous design work includes: SEX W/ STRANGERS, INVISIBLE HAND, 4000 MILES, RADIO GOLF, INTIMATE APPAREL, IN THE HEIGHTS, ROCKY HORROR SHOW (American Stage); SUSANNAH, NORMA, IL TROVATORE (St Pete Opera); DR JEKYL AND MR. HYDE, MAN OF LA MANCHA, MR BURNS, ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO’S NEST,

CABARET (freeFall Theatre); DREAMGIRLS (Historic Asolo Theatre); THE ODD COUPLE, THE MEN (Studio@620); BROADWAY (The Actors’ Gang); AMERICAN BULLFIGHTER, THE CLAIMING RACE (The Mark Taper Forum’s New Works Festival); THE EINSTEIN PROJECT (The Berkshire Theatre Festival). Art Direction and Set Design: Walt Disney Entertainment, CBS Sports, Universal Creative, Nickelodeon Studios.

JOSEPH P. OSHRY# LIGHTING DESIGNER

Since 1986, Joseph has designed lighting for over 550 productions with such organizations as Asolo Repertory Theatre, Palm Beach Dramaworks, MaltzJupiter Theatre, Orlando Shakespeare Theatre, Palm Beach Opera, Opera Tampa, New Orleans Opera, Sarasota International Dance Festival, Ballet Eddy Toussaint USA and the Interlochen Dance Ensemble in Michigan. Joseph has received two Individual Artist Fellowships from the Florida Division of Cultural Affairs and is a two-time recipient of the Theatre Tampa Bay award for outstanding lighting design.

Further, he serves on the Advisory Board of Tampa Repertory Theatre. He is also a member of United Scenic Artists Local 829 New York and of IATSE Local 412 Sarasota.

WHO'S WHO ON THE CREATIVE TEAM

RACHEL HARRISON*

when I tell you that race me ve lie be to u yo t an Iw enter into it.” ner, A RAISIN IN THE SUN prejudice simply doesn’t - Karl Lind

ACTORS’ EQUITY ASSOCIATION (AEA OR ‘EQUITY’) Founded in 1913, Actors’ Equity Association represents more than 48,000 Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. Equity seeks to advance, promote, and foster the art of live theatre as an essential component of our society. Equity negotiates wages and working conditions, providing a wide range of benefits, including health and pension plans. AEA is a member of the AFL-CIO and is affiliated with FIA, an international organization of performing arts unions.

American Stage is a proud member of Theatre Communications Group (TCG), the national organization for the American Theatre.

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MEET THE 2017/2018 AMERICAN STAGE APPRENTICES

MEET OUR 2017/2018 APPRENTICES American Stage's Apprenticeship Program, the first pillar in our Young Americans Initiative, is dedicated to developing the future of our art form. Young theatre makers spend a year immersed in a professional theatre environment, apprenticing alongside experienced theatre professionals. Learn more at americanstage.org/YA

TATO CASTILLO

Tato was most recently seen in MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING at American Stage. In High School, he was an Intern for American Stage which helped him decide that he wanted to be an actor professionally. His favorite credits are A WILD PARTY (Palladium), THE ROYALE (American Stage), and a piece choreographed by Pilobulos Dance Company at his Alma Mater in partnership with Valencia Community College. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre Arts from Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida.

KODY HOPKINS

Kody is excited to be joining American Stage as one of its 201718 Acting/Production Apprentices. He holds a BFA in Acting from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where he performed in a diverse array of plays from school tours to Shakespeare.

Some of his favorite shows while there include ASLEEP ON THE WIND, PINOCCHIO, and FROM UP HERE. This will be his first time on an Equity Stage, and he'd like to thank the company for this wonderful opportunity!

COURTNEY ANNE MCLAREN

Courtney holds a BA from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts with concentrations in theater, music, and arts management.

At MCLA, credits include: Sally Bowles in CABARET, Wendla in SPRING AWAKENING, Harper in ANGELS IN AMERICA (PART I), and Clarice in THE LIAR. While in college, she spent summers as an acting apprentice at three renowned New England theaters, Berkshire Theatre Group, Commonwealth Shakespeare, and Williamstown Theatre Festival. Before joining American Stage, she acted as an Artist-in-Residence at Berkshire Theatre Group performing in touring shows, teaching playwriting and acting skills, and leading after-school theater programs. At American Stage, Courtney has had the pleasure of performing in the educational school tour show RIKKI TIKKI TAVI, as well as the mainstage production of MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING. Courtney sends her thanks to family and friends for their love and support.

TAYLOR SWEAT

Taylor was most recently unseen as a rooster wrangler (and ASM) in American Stage’s MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING. She graduated in 2017 with a BA in Theatre from TARILABO Florida Gulf Coast University. During her time in school, she worked as KORIPAMO a spotlight operator and assistant stage manager Tarilabo, originally at TheatreZone in Naples, FL, shadowed the stage from Nigeria, moved management team for the KINKY BOOTS tour, and to the United States in taught drama during the summer of 2016 in Stuart, 2013. She graduated FL at the Lyric Theatre. Since graduating, she was the with a theater degree production management intern for the Shakespeare from Guilford College.

Credits include: RIMERS Theatre of New Jersey, where she also drove the courtesy van to NYC. Taylor is excited to start the OF ELDRITCH, DEAD New Year with American Stage, continuing work as MAN'S CELL PHONE, the Production and Stage Management Apprentice!

THE CRUCIBLE, MISALLIANCE, and more. Tarilabo Favorite credits include XANADU, THE FOREIGNER, is also a recommended certified stage combatant DAMES AT SEA, THE TAMING OF THE SHREW, by the National stage combat workshop. She has served as a fight co-director and captain on multiple and THE ROYALE. Taylor is a member of the Stage Manager’s Association and USITT. productions. She is honored to be a part of the professional team at American Stage.

Visit AMERICANSTAGE.ORG/YA to learn more.

14 2017 - 2018 SEASON • A RAISIN IN THE SUN

This season, American Stage asks our community to be a part of the ‘WE THE PEOPLE’ movement. To honor our commitment to the community, we have partnered with seven talented local artists to create visual interpretations of the plays in our season.

To inspire and immerse visual artists in the experience of creating a production, each artist was invited to participate in the rehearsal process.

This informs the creation of a unique 24” x 36” original signature artwork to be displayed in our lobby.

These signature pieces are then donated to American Stage as a fundraiser toward the 40 FORWARD campaign. Visit americanstage.org/BID to participate.

FEATURED VISUAL ARTIST

Artists Supporting Artists

American Stage is donating their gallery space to each visual artist for an exhibition through the run of each partner production to promote and support each artist’s business.

Featured Visual Artist

Thank you to the talented visual artist Zulu Painter who, along with professional photographer Joey Clay, and the American Stage in-house design team created the production artwork for A RAISIN IN THE SUN. " I immediately think of uplifting unity with the We The People theme. As if all of this season will be filled with empowering messages. Working with American stage on this collaborative project has been a great opportunity to bloom with fellow Artisans. More opportunities for everyday folks to be heard and allowed to express themselves is important to the well being of our nation." - Zulu Painter ZULU PAINTER is a St. Petersburg, FL based multi-media artist who works in traditional mediums as well as body paint, special effects and scenic art. An aerosol-based mural artist, Zulu Painter’s work can be seen across Florida. His murals in Historic Midtown have lent to the art revitalization in this bustling area.

WE THE PEOPLE  ART!

Come together as we celebrate RAISIN's featured visual artist.

Zulu Painter will present a Gallery Show throughout the run of the production in our lobby.

Visit concessions or the box office to purchase.

Artist Meet & Greet Reception: Friday, Feb 2 @ 7PM Proceeds benefit American Stage & visual artist, Zulu Painter.

727.823.PLAY (7529) • AMERICANSTAGE.ORG 15

YA

YOUNG AMERICANS INITIATIVE The Young Americans Initiative empowers the next era of artists and audiences. American Stage offers this unprecedented access in these three ways:

1

AMERICAN STAGE APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

2 UNDER 30 PASS

3

UNDER 20 PASSPORT For inquiries and more information, please email advancement@americanstage.org or visit americanstage.org/YA

AS 40

1 9 7 7

2 0 1 7

16 3 3 r d S t r e e t N o r t h , S t . P e t e r s b u r g , F L 3 3 7 01

16 2017 - 2018 SEASON • A RAISIN IN THE SUN

YOUR SUPPORT

EMPOWERS

THE NEXT ERA OF ARTISTS AND AUDIENCES.

American Stage is committed to 40FORWARD, shaping the future of live theatre in Tampa Bay. Visit americanstage.org/YA to learn more. on

acks

kJ atric

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Paige

Marissa Koch

Tiffany Ford

Tom Block

Gilley

AS 40

Sarah Ammons

1 9 7 7

2 0 1 7

Roman Black

der Stephanie Sny

Timon Brown Jerid Fox

Step han Gular ie te

Jim Sorensen

Kara Goldberg Rachel Harris son

Leyla Prior

Sign your name in our lobby to join us in our commitment to engaging the next generation of artists & AMERICANSTAGE.ORG/DONATE | 727.823.1600 x 207

727.823.PLAY (7529) • AMERICANSTAGE.ORG 17

APR 18 – MAY 13, 2018

Opening Night is our GALA UNDER THE STARS on April 20, 2018

Demens Landing | Located on the corner of 1st Ave S & Bayshore Drive SE

Directed by Rye Mullis Starring Matthew McGee (HAIRSPRAY) as Max Bialystock

WINNER! BEST MUSICAL TONY AWARD

#asINTHEPARK #asPRODUCERS

727.823.PLAY (7529) AMERICANSTAGE.ORG/PARK 2018 Gala Host & Park Sponsor: SHERRI RICHEY BURKE Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture. (Section 286.25, Florida Statutes).

18 2017 - 2018 SEASON • A RAISIN IN THE SUN

Services & Facilities: Accessible parking, entrances, restrooms & seating

Gala Under the Stars Friday, April 20, 2018

American Stage’s Gala Under the Stars is held annually on the opening night of our American Stage in the Park production in Demens Landing on the St. Petersburg waterfront. This extraordinary evening supports the artistic and educational programming at American Stage.

Be a Part of this Magical Night...

Join the Party!

Individual tickets and table sponsorships are available.

Lock in 2017 table pricing at $1900 by purchasing before 3/1/18!

Tables for 10 persons $2200 after 3/1/18.

Visit americanstage.org/GALA

Call (727) 823-1600 Ext. 207 | Email advancement@americanstage.org

Donate Auction Items We are seeking products, services, or certificates.

Donations are tax deductible and will be acknowledged at auction table, event program and on the annual donor honor roll in relation to gift value.

Host an Artist Help us honor the artists of American Stage. Invite an artist to be a part of opening night’s GALA by sponsoring their ticket.

Showcase your Brand Connect with your community while building your business at American Stage in the Park with our sponsorship and event marketing packages.

2018 American Stage

Gala Under the Stars attendees will enjoy:

Silent Auction, Gourmet Dinner by Parkshore Grill Catering, Open Bar, Live Auction & the Opening Night Performance of THE PRODUCERS

727.823.PLAY (7529) • AMERICANSTAGE.ORG 19

Jo Com in e the Toge mo ther ve ! me n

POWERFUL STORIES. BOLDLY TOLD. 40 YEARS STRONG.

163 3rd St N, St. Pete, FL 33701

t.

A movement through the power of live storytelling.

SEP -OCT

NOV -DEC

JAN -FEB

MAR -APR

MAY -JUN

JUL -AUG

APR -MAY

DEC

FAMILY SERIES

IN THE PARK

#asWTP

See More! Save More! With an ANNIVERSARY PASS! See all 4 remaining shows of the season for $140 (SAVE $56)!

Apply the cost of your RAISIN ticket to an ANNIVERSARY PASS before 3/1.

727.823.PLAY (7529) • AMERICANSTAGE.ORG