ASU Gammage Inner Circle Magazine Volume 38

ASU Gammage

Inner Circle Volume 38 Winter 2024

DANCE IS MUSIC IN MOTION

IN THE SAME TONGUE

BEHIND THE CURTAIN AT ASU GAMMAGE

A PASSION WORTH PASSING DOWN

Having so much foot traffic leaves a lasting impact on the theater’s floors. It’s been decades of wear and tear every day and now we need your help. Our beloved theater is in need of repair.

Photo by Christine Johnson

The floors are currently painted without the appropriate material needed to withstand the thousands upon thousands of shoes it meets each month. I am asking for your financial support to help raise the funds to resurface our floors.

When the floors are resurfaced, we will be using an epoxy-based product that is durable and will last for many years to come.

The best part of this campaign is that we don’t have to do it alone! The university will pay for half of the $1.2M project if we can raise the other half. We have raised $160,000. With your help, every dollar brings us closer to our goal.

It brings me so much pride and joy thinking about our community and the number of people that get to experience our beautiful venue. From presenting the best of Broadway on our stage to creating educational opportunities for schools, it is an honor to know the reach of our mission extends far and wide.

We welcome thousands of audience members into our theater for every Broadway show.

Hundreds of children explore the arts through our Cultural Participation programs. Graduates walk across our stage during ceremonies.

Our venue is home to many events year-round and it is no small feat for our building.

Your support will make this possible. If you are able to give a gift or if you are interested in learning more, please reach out to 480-965-6059.

Thank you for all you do to support ASU Gammage. We cannot thank you enough for helping to keep our theater beautiful!

Colleen Jennings-Roggensack ASU Vice President for Cultural Affairs and Executive Director of ASU Gammage

Congrats Tim Trumble!

Congratulations to our friend and partner, photographer Tim Trumble. The Arizona State University Alumni Association honored exceptional alumni leaders during the Homecoming Parade and the Sun Devils’ football game against the Washington State Cougars on Saturday, Oct. 28.

Trumble received the Alumni Appreciation Award, which is presented to a community member who is not a graduate of Arizona State University but through their contributions has enhanced the stature and success of ASU and the Alumni Association.

President Michael Crow and Tim Trumble Photo by Marion Rhoades/ASU Alumni Association

1

ASU GAMMAGE INNER CIRCLE

WHAT’S INSIDE Volume 38 Winter 2024

03

CONTENTS

3

THE KITE RUNNER

5

Staff Profile: Graciela Saenz

7

IN THE SAME TONGUE

10

Desert Financial Credit Union

11

Donor Profile: A passion worth passing down

13

Donor Photos

15

Tech Tours

17

JAGGED LITTLE PILL

19

ASU Gammage Gammy and Jerry Awards

22

ASU Kerr: Quarteto Nuevo

23

VIP Donor Club

Salar Nader and Enid and Michael Seiden

15

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Colleen Jennings-Roggensack EDITOR IN CHIEF AND PROJECT MANAGER Arianna Jones

Quarteto Nuevo

MANAGING EDITOR Theresa Dickerson

22

EDITORIAL TEAM Alexis Alabado, Kari Amarosso, Carly Farabee, Michelle Johnson, Arayah Larson, Megan Loponen, Peter Means, Tim Walling CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Alexis Alabado, Stacey Bailey, Kimberly Carson, Jillian Cote, Heather Fuentes, Emily Mai GRAPHIC DESIGNER Sophie Pallissard Cover Photo: IN THE SAME TONGUE. Photo by Paula Lobo Tech Tours

VOLUME 38 | 2024

2

BROADWAY

1

The story of THE KITE RUNNER soars to incredible heights with Tabla player The national tour kicks off at ASU Gammage April 2024

By Alexis Alabado

Nader plays the Tabla at a performance of THE KITE RUNNER in the original Broadway production. Photo by Joan Marcus 1

ASU Gammage Executive Director Colleen JenningsRoggensack and Nader at the 2023–2024 Season Announce Event. Photo by Tim Trumble

2

Close your eyes and hear the music: tuneful plinks, thumps and a fast-paced rhythmic tempo that drives the story home. Open your eyes, and you come to discover this kind of percussion is 400 years in the making.

Thanks to Tabla player Salar Nader and his work on THE KITE RUNNER, western audiences will be enraptured by the sounds of Afghanistan, and with it, hear the voices of the voiceless at a time when Afghan influence and culture are needed most.

Two decades ago, Khaled Hosseini’s “The Kite Runner” touched the hearts of many and became one of the most highly acclaimed novels of our time. Taking place in Afghanistan as well as the United States, it is a powerful story of friendship that follows one man’s journey to confront his past and find redemption.

Nader composed and performed THE KITE RUNNER’s musical score for its initial run at The San Jose Repertory Theatre, and

3

ASU GAMMAGE INNER CIRCLE

was part of the Arizona Theatre Company’s 2009 production. He then reworked the score, arranging and composing works entirely from the world of Afghan, Pashto folklore and ghazal. He made his Broadway debut as the onstage percussionist and music arranger in July 2022 in New York City for the play THE KITE RUNNER, adapted by Matthew Spangler.

“It was a really big deal for me, especially the Afghan-American community at large, because I was one of two Afghans that stepped onto Broadway for the first time ever – myself and Azita Ghanizada, who portrayed Amir’s wife, Soraya,” Nader explained.

“As a Tabla player, it was crucial to pay homage to some of the master musicians who never had the chance to step onto a Broadway stage and celebrate those artists through the different traditional compositions they left for us. It was really exciting and groundbreaking to knock down barriers to bring these instruments to the forefront of a Broadway production.”

Among those instruments featured on stage are the Tabla (an Indian percussion), the Afghan Zehrbhagali (an underarm drum), the Bami Kabuli (a bass drum from Kabul), the Dholaki Paghmani (a double-sided drum from Paghman), the Attan Dhol (another drum used for the National Dance) and Singing Bowls (bell-like bowls that emit sound as you rotate a mallet around the rim). The Tabla is a set of two drums that are played while sitting on the floor. It has its own written and oral repertoire that’s handed down from teacher to student over many generations.

As of August 2021, music and other forms of creative art are banned in Afghanistan.

It is through stories like THE KITE RUNNER that Afghans can reclaim their voice for the many who are being stifled.

“I can only imagine if I didn’t have access to my instrument and wasn’t able to practice or speak through it — how devastating that would be,” Nader explained.

“I know I’m doing a service to

2

Did you know?

“

A story like this helps to educate the masses. It opens the hearts and minds and builds bridges between people.” our community because of the generations of young Afghans who will also dream to be on Broadway one day or a national tour. It’s a heartfelt pride I have for the people who have struggled so much these last 40 years, and I want to make sure they have representation.”

For Nader, Act I in this play tells his family’s story. He was born in Germany in 1981 to Afghan parents forced to flee their home during the Russian-Afghan war. Nader was just 5 years old when his family settled in the San Francisco Bay Area.

“When I’m getting ready to take the stage, I am constantly reminded of why I’m there and why I’m telling that story through the Tabla,” he said. “Between father and son, the characters of Baba and Amir really reflect the community. Baba is a super successful businessman who overnight has his world turned upside down and has to flee with his son. Working at a flea market in the United States is a story of many Afghan families that migrated here — they went through those survival tactics to make do with what they had in this new country.”

During THE KITE RUNNER’s Broadway run, Nader remembers

ASU Golden Gammage Investors Mike and Enid Seiden also supported the production of THE KITE RUNNER and its journey from Arizona Theatre Company to Broadway.

—SALAR NADER

peeking through the side of the stage curtain before showtime and witnessing audience members walking up to the Tabla setup to take photos — it awakened a playful curiosity in everyone.

On one of those performance nights, Nobel Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai and her husband came forward and asked to touch the percussion instruments.

“I was like, ‘Absolutely, are you kidding me?’” Nader laughed.

“I think there’s this childlike quality that comes upon all of us when we see a musical instrument, especially something that’s percussion, with different tuning levers on it. I’ve heard so many people describe the tones of the Tabla in ways that I absolutely love because with a brand-new audience, they have no idea what they’re in for.”

ASU Gammage had the honor of hosting Nader during the 2023– 2024 Season Announce Event in spring of 2023. Nader touched the hearts of many through his Tabla playing and brief Q&A following the performance. A man that wears his heart on his sleeve, he too displays his culture and traditions on his chest proudly.

When asked why the story of THE

KITE RUNNER is so important, Nader paused before providing a gentle but straightforward response: “As an Afghan refugee and Afghan-American, it’s a heavy time. The Afghan community — the women, the children — they’ve gone through a lot.”

Nader reflected on his brief but impactful performance at ASU Gammage and said he cannot wait to return and finish what he started.

“It’s such an amazing and epic space to be in,” Nader said. “I can’t wait to be back there and bring a lot of joy and attention to a story that’s really important. A story like this helps to educate the masses.

It opens the hearts and minds and builds bridges between people.

For Afghans within the country or newly arriving to the U.S., they will have an identity through this story being told at ASU.”

The national tour of THE KITE RUNNER kicks off at ASU Gammage April 9–14, 2024. asugammage.com/kiterunner

VOLUME 38 | 2024

4

STAFF PROFILE

Gracie outside the Phoenix Symphony Hall in Downtown Phoenix.

Gracie, Wylin and Tia at a Spring Training game.

Graciela at THE LION KING Homecoming tent.

For this ASU Gammage Senior Accountant, accounting isn’t just numbers and reports — it’s personal

By Jillian Cote

In the past five years, Graciela Saenz has made connections with the internal and external ASU Gammage community through her work, and has made it her mission to support everyone in every way possible.

“I’m always focused on what others are needing. Like today, I helped Tia (ASU Gammage Accounting Specialist Sr.) count money for concessions, something that I used to do but has now been passed onto her. Although it has evolved, I still assist — we all help each other out,” Saenz said. “I also help with the accounting for Cultural Participation programs like Camp Broadway. ASU might know how many payments were made, but we know each 5

ASU GAMMAGE INNER CIRCLE

camper’s name and the parents in our system. It’s the details that make this so personal.”

Saenz’s accounting career took root at Arizona State University, where she graduated with a degree in finance. As an Arizona native and Sun Devil, Saenz has always held the Valley of the Sun close to her heart.

After venturing to Georgia and working for an accounting firm there for almost three years, Saenz was drawn back to Arizona due to family.

“I moved back to Arizona for my mom,” Saenz said. “She had been diagnosed with cancer at the time, and I was in a position

where it made sense to move back. I’m sure I would have come back eventually because all of my family is here, but being with her during this time was definitely the force that pulled me home.”

While her transition back to her home state brought many changes to her life, Saenz found a constant in her connection to ASU throughout the years, from a student in the past to an accountant today.

“I love working for ASU. I have a lot of nostalgia with the university having attended here and seeing how things have changed, walking around and reliving memories on campus,” Saenz said. “What’s especially great is that now, I can

“

I enjoy being able to show them [students] what the business side of putting on a show looks like.”

— G R AC I E L A S A E N Z

Danza performance at the celebration of the of La Virgen de San Juan in Guadalupe.

Sparky and Graciela’s son Nico

share all of these memories with my son. We participate in all of the ASU events like the homecoming block party. Hopefully he’ll be a Sun Devil one day, too!”

Saenz was by no means a stranger to ASU Gammage before becoming its senior accountant, but her position deepened her interest in the world of theater.

“My first memory of ASU Gammage is doing a field trip in grade school, and I know I came to a couple of shows while I was a student, too. I still have the Gammbills,” Saenz said. “I was always interested in theater, but I didn’t follow it as closely before. Now, I’m more aware of other shows and understand certain contexts. HAMILTON is still my favorite show — I’m so excited for it to return.”

At ASU Gammage, Saenz takes part in education initiatives like School to Work to give high school students opportunities to see the reality of jobs that might spark their interest. Reflecting

on when she pursued similar opportunities as a student, Saenz hopes to help them materialize their career-based futures.

“I’ve been able to represent business services during some of the School to Work programming and give students a taste of what a business settlement looks like.

I enjoy being able to show them what the business side of putting on a show looks like. It’s been rewarding to show that to the community because I remember when I was that age and I had to shadow somebody in the industry that I wanted to work in at the time — It’s really full circle.”

While Saenz’s current career is quite technical and detailoriented, her student experiences at ASU shine a light on her more abstract and creative interests.

“During my sophomore year, I went to the studios for 1260 AM ‘The Blaze’, the student radio station.

I was exposed to goth music and indie music from noon to one every Wednesday,” Saenz said. “After

a year of shadowing students, I was able to get my own show on Mondays called ‘Manic Mondays’. I went to a lot of concerts at unique venues and interview some of the artists. It was so incredibly fun.”

Saenz’s love for music and creativity stuck with her in her career goals, despite spending time at accounting firms and corporate offices. When she became part of the ASU Gammage team, this passion began to take new forms.

“I always knew that I wanted to work with music and the arts at the time, but wondered how I could work in music when I didn’t have any actual talent, so I turned to business,” Saenz said.

“My goal was always to end up in a liner note of a record or even to appear on the credits at the end of the movie. I guess now, in a way, with my name listed in the Gammbills, it happened, and I’m so grateful it did.”

VOLUME 38 | 2024

6

BEYOND

e c n is a D

s i u c in m

7

ASU GAMMAGE INNER CIRCLE

m o ti o n

Tango duo with musicians.

Steven Williams, Brianna Rhodes, Christopher Page-Sanders, Cleave Guyton Jr.

Dianne McIntyre

Story by Alexis Alabado Photos by Paula Lobo

IN THE SAME TONGUE

Dianne McIntyre has based her decades of experience as a dancer and choreographer on one ideology: dance is music moving McIntyre’s contemporary dance piece, IN THE SAME TONGUE, takes this line of thinking and shapes it into an up close and personal experience for those in attendance on January 27 at ASU Gammage. Choreographed and directed

by McIntyre, with live music composed and arranged for the production by Diedre Murray, the work explores dance and music speaking to one another.

McIntyre, who has choreographed for world-renowned dance companies such as Dance Theatre of Harlem along with four Broadway shows, said her initial purpose for creating IN THE SAME TONGUE was to highlight dance and music in collaboration together. The company of five dancers and four musicians share the stage, bringing theatrical expression to every move, every note, every word.

“As it grew and developed, I expanded the piece to be more than the communication between dance and music, but also communication between human beings in terms of words, meaning, tones that people use and silent communication,” McIntyre said. “Are we speaking the same language? Is the language grating against each other? Do we come together in not knowing that we come together?”

VOLUME 38 | 2024

8

1

1 Five dancers against a blue scrim. Shaquelle Charles, Demetia Hopkins, Kamryn Vaulx, Christopher Page-Sanders, Brianna Rhodes

2 Duo with musicians.

Steven Williams, Christopher PageSanders, Kamryn Vaulx, Gerald Brazel, Cleave Guyton Jr.

In the same way that jazz musicians are able to take a theme or motif and develop it in their own creative way, so too do the performers in this new work.

“The dance and music are all part of the same band,” McIntyre explained. “I give them the freedom in certain places where the dancers and musicians make their own choices and there are some improvised elements between them. The different shadings, colors and rhythms vary from each performance. Sometimes you’ll see a live band in tap or swing dancing, but it’s rarer in contemporary and modern dance in terms of the communication between the dancers and the musicians.”

The musical ensemble is comprised of a trumpet player, a woodwind player who switches off between saxophone and flute, an upright bass player and a drummer.

Dynamic vignettes ignite the stage, including McIntyre’s own voiceover of autobiographical stories — such as the musical influence of the Black Arts Movement — and the poetry of Ntozake Shange vocalized by the dancers onstage.

“These voiceovers primarily talk about how I have come to feel that dance and music are one, and how I connect with music from different

9

ASU GAMMAGE INNER CIRCLE

time periods. All those things that have affected me,” McIntyre said.

The music styles vary just as the piece ebbs and flows. One section takes on a historical context as it covers blues, swing, jazz and bebop. Then there are other sections with undefined genres exploring the human connection.

McIntyre said much of her inspiration comes from dance in its purest forms, which actually led her on a trip to Arizona decades ago. Prior to the 1970s, McIntyre had only flown over Arizona in an airplane. As she delved further into her career, McIntyre had the urge to visit Native nations where there was a wealth of generational knowledge in dance and storytelling.

“I was very taken by cultures where people retained over centuries the dance and music from their peoples,” she said. “I took a road trip with a friend, and we traveled across the country to experience some of the dances of the people of Native nations.”

McIntyre hopes that for the dancers in the audience who are seeing the show — such as ASU School of Music, Dance and Theatre students — they notice something new in the

2

connection between dance and music that’s different from performing with recorded music.

“I hope those who watch the show experience the joy of dance and the power of music,” McIntyre said.

“I expanded the piece to be more than the communication between dance and music, but also communication between human beings in terms of words, meaning, tones that people use and silent communication.”

—DIANNE MCINTYRE, C H O R EO G R A P H E R A N D D I R ECTO R O F I N T H E S A M E TO N G U E

Don’t miss IN THE SAME TONGUE at ASU Gammage Jan. 27, 2024. Tickets on sale at asugammage.com.

Broadway Series Title Sponsor is now the official retail banking partner of Arizona State University Desert Financial Credit Union named the official retail banking partner of Arizona State University Desert Financial is the exclusive provider of ASU-branded debit and credit cards and will run all on-campus bank branches and ATMs at ASU’s Downtown Phoenix, Polytechnic, Tempe and West campuses.

Desert Financial kicked off the expanded partnership with a $25,000 donation that will be used for equipment to aid in recovery and injury prevention across all Arizona State University Women’s Sports. Desert Financial will also provide student and community engagement activities on the ASU campuses, including volunteer opportunities and financial education for students and faculty.

“We know strong communities are built by citizens who have received a quality education,” said Desert Financial President and CEO, Jeff Meshey. “Our existing partnership with ASU has improved access to higher education for our

employees, and we’re building on that foundation to increase access to high-quality, local financial services and financial education for the ASU community.”

Since launching its corporate education program in 2020, nearly 30% of Desert Financial employees have enrolled in fully funded undergraduate degree programs, graduate education or continuing education courses through ASU. “Arizona State University and Desert Financial Credit Union share a strong belief in the power of education and our collaborative ability to support student learning and success,” said ASU President Michael M. Crow. “ASU is excited to grow this valued partnership as a dynamic resource offering great service, convenience and financial literacy to our students and our broader Sun Devil community.”

Desert Financial has been closely tied to ASU for the past several years. Arizona’s largest credit union has held naming rights for the university’s basketball arena since 2019. Desert Financial Arena on the ASU Tempe campus is home to men’s and women’s basketball, wrestling, gymnastics and volleyball.

The two organizations share common founding stories. Arizona State University began as a school to train teachers in 1885.

Desert Financial Credit Union owes its origin to a group of Valley teachers who founded the credit union in 1939 with just $78.75.

The exclusive ASU debit cards are available at DesertFinancial.com/ASU.

VOLUME 38 | 2024

10

DONOR PROFILE

Merrily Metzger

Merrily and JO Finks at the Tony Awards®.

PASSION

A WORTH passing

By Heather Fuentes

Marilyn “Merrily” Metzger’s family planted their roots in Arizona in 1906, and she’s lived in the Valley most of her life. Having grown up around the arts, she has developed a deep connection to all forms of art and culture, specifically for theater and ASU Gammage.

“I first became a season ticket holder at ASU Gammage in the early 90s.” she said. “I am very passionate about the fact that if you want to have good arts in your community, you have to be there and support it, and not just by being in the audience.” As a legacy donor, Merrily is proud to be able to financially support many programs at ASU Gammage.

Mother to two sons and two step-daughters and grandmother of nine, Merrily is enthusiastic about teaching her family about the arts. “I took my kids to many events when they were growing up. As soon as my grandchildren were old enough, I got them into a local children’s theater program called Childsplay. I take them to see shows at ASU Gammage and Herberger. I always tell their mamas that I’m the ‘theater grandma’.” Two of her granddaughters have even participated in Camp Broadway.

A five-day camp taught by actors, writers, and designers directly from New York. Camp Broadway

“I love their education arm! They [ASU Gammage] are reaching children and families that never get to see theater. It’s an experience I believe every child should have.” ­— M E R R I LY M E T ZG E R , L EG ACY D O N O R

11

ASU GAMMAGE INNER CIRCLE

was created to develop confidence, character and presentation skills through ensemble performance. The week culminates in a Family Finale performance, and you can bet that Merrily can be found in the audience proudly cheering her grandchildren on. She is thrilled to see them building a passion for the arts at such a young age.

Even now that Merrily’s children are older, she still tries to make an effort to keep them connected to theater as well.

“I sometimes offer to take care of my grandchildren so that the grown-ups can go to a show and have a date night.” She loves date nights with her daughters and daughter-in-law and is always excited to bring them with her to see a show. When Merrily and her husband travel to New York, they are certain to be found at a Broadway show.

Often seeking the advice of ASU Gammage’s Executive Director,

Merrily’s grandchildren, Whitney and Alyssa, at Camp Broadway with Michelle Johnson (center).

Colleen Jennings-Roggensack, she will try to see up to nine shows over the Thanksgiving holidays.

“Colleen sees everything and is the perfect person to tell you what shows not to miss! She’s so passionate!” Merrily said.

It’s part of what she loves most about being a donor at ASU Gammage — the friendships and relationships she has built with other donors and the staff. Merrily loves how passionate the ASU Gammage staff is about theater and Connecting Communities™.

“We have even traveled with them, joining them for Broadway Adventure for at least ten years.

Seeing shows like KIMBERLY AKIMBO, MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG, MOULIN ROUGE, BEETLEJUICE and SHUCKED

Merrily at the Tony Awards®.

together has been such a thrill.

We have seen HAMILTON five times! I’m excited it’s coming back to ASU Gammage.” she said.

This season, Merrily was excited to help commission the world premiere of the contemporary opera THE OLD MAN AND THE SEA, which played at ASU Gammage in the Fall. A longtime opera fan, Merrily believes that it’s her duty to help support programs like these. “I’m currently teaching my 50-year-old son about opera.

Over the years, opera houses have lost so much funding and there aren’t as many performances and it makes me sad.” Although most well-known for Broadway programming, Merrily is thrilled to help bring her passion for opera to ASU Gammage as well.

When asked who inspired her charitable giving, she credits her maternal grandmother. “She was a very generous person with a giving heart. She gave back to her community in many ways.

She was passionate and so am I.” Merrily gives to ASU Gammage not only because she is passionate about theater, but because she greatly appreciates the work the organization does for military families and school-aged children.

“I love their education arm! They are reaching children and families that never get to see theater. It’s an experience I believe every child should have. I didn’t start going to the theater until I was an adult and I often think about how much I missed out on growing up. It’s why I make sure my children and grandchildren go. ASU Gammage is more than just the glitz and glamour of Broadway, and I love that! They are truly about reaching out to the community.”

Merrily knows that a passion for the arts is one worth passing down to generations to come, and through her giving, she is not only able to impact her own family, but many families around the Valley.

That’s a legacy to be proud of.

Merrily’s collection of Broadway Adventure passes.

To learn how you can leave a legacy at ASU Gammage, contact Peter Means at 480-965-6059.

VOLUME 38 | 2024

12

DONOR PHOTOS 13

VIP Donors COMMISSIONING EVENT THE OLD MAN AND THE SEA

Artists, donors and staff mingle in the Rae & Richard S. Love Lobby.

Back: Michelle Johnson, Anthony and Mindi D’Elia, John Kras, Tim Walling, Kevin Mendivil Front: Michael Hughes and Mollie Trivers

Guests from the Sagewood community, Susan Berk and Mollie Trivers at the reception.

Colleen Jennings-Roggensack, Jeffrey Zeigler, Paola Prestini, Shoshana Tancer and Samuel Lowry enjoy the reception.

Jeffrey Zeigler, JO Finks, Paola Prestini and Michael Reed

Chuck Goldstein, Paola Prestini, Jeffrey Zeigler and Laurie Goldstein

John Kras, Tim Walling, Brian Jones, Susan Howden, Patricia Quinn and Michael Cordova

Enid Seiden, Jeffrey Zeigler and Mike Seiden discuss the performance.

ASU GAMMAGE INNER CIRCLE

Golden Gammage Investors FOOD PREVIEW NIGHT

Jeff Abbett, Colleen Jennings-Roggensack, Michelle Jung and Chris Rodriguez

Barbara and Irv Berger and Peter Means

David Horowitz, Enid and Michael Seiden

Geoff Sobelle and Jeff Abbett

Performances for Students MARIACHI GARIBALDI

Members of Mariachi Garibaldi answer questions from donors.

Back: Jeff Abbett, Jenniffer Jarvis, Megan Loponen, Sandie Phillips, Colleen Jennings-Roggensack, Michael Reed, Arrayah Larson, Tim Walling, Brian Jones, Haeden Nguyen, Michelle Johnson Front: Jimmy K. Cuéllar, Desiree Ong, Gustavo Hernandez

VOLUME 38 | 2024

14

CULTURAL PARTICIPATION

Behind the curtain at

ASU Gammage

Westwood High School students experience a behind-the-scenes look at how a show comes to life.

The students gathered tightly packed into the audio booth where Assistant Production Manager Krusty Mason shared tips and tricks about the audio system. She shared information about the tools in the booth and discussed job certification recommendations. She also showed off all of the streaming equipment used for virtual performances.

AUDIO BOOTH

She laughed giving one pearl of wisdom, “Audio people love to talk about their jobs,” said Mason.

She recommended that if given the chance, students should feel welcomed to approach the audio folks at shows. They will talk your ear off if they can or show you around.

“My favorite part was the audio booth. I have been considering a minor in stage management.

And seeing this today has been R K E R , S O P H O M O R E AT really cool.” ­—WPAEST WO O D H I G H S C H O O L LIGHTING The group of students joined Vern Ellingson, Assistant Production Manager, in the balcony. Before proceeding she asked “are any of you afraid of heights?”

Once the group was secure on the balcony, she explained how there is no catwalk at ASU Gammage. In order to get to the 42 front lights, she has to climb into the space in the balcony. While explaining, she climbed onto the ledge, which is 80 feet from the floor. Ellingson shared about getting the lights set up for shows, and the process for lighting everything from Broadway, the ASU Gammage Beyond Series, the ASU Symphony and more.

The students got the unique perspective of riding the orchestra pit elevator. They oohed and awed as the pit descended to the trap room (the space under the stage). Shaun Shultz, Production Manager, explained the stage floors, the trap door and the beams that are holding up the stage.

RIDING THE PIT

“The first question I ask when I get a show rider (a set of requests or demands that a performer sets) is ‘how heavy is your show?’” Shultz explained what the team does to accommodate larger shows and how that has to be the first conversation to assure safety.

15

ASU GAMMAGE INNER CIRCLE

Shultz then took the students back up to the stage to talk about the stage and the orchestra shell. He explained that when THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA first came to ASU Gammage the stage had to be adapted to accommodate such a large show. The solution was to move the orchestra shell. A system was created to float the orchestra shell (which is 60 feet wide and 30 feet tall) into a garage. “On a good day it takes 12 people 7-8 hours to move.

On average it takes us 16 hours, “said Shultz.

THE STAGE

DRESSING ROOMS Next stop on the tour was the beautiful, remodeled dressing rooms. Shultz explained the new dimmable mirrors that match the lighting on stage if needed.

Then he also shared the most requested change was adding USB charging ports to the dressing rooms.

As he walked the students down the hall backstage, he pointed to the star dressing rooms. “We’ve had special guests such as Lin-Manuel Miranda, Idina Menzel, and my personal favorite, Bill Nye the Science Guy.” The students all “oohed”, clearly impressed.

THE FLIES For maybe the third time on the tech tour the question was asked “are you afraid of heights?” The students ascended up the stairs onto the fly rail. Shultz explained how to set the flies for shows and everything that goes into getting the flies ready for whoever will be performing. Probably the fan favorite of the tour was what he calls “the wall of fame.” This is the wall where various shows that have visited ASU Gammage leave their mark with show artwork and signatures from the crew painted on it. He explained the production teams travel with a stencil and leave their mark on the theaters they visit.

Shultz led the group on stage for what he called his final talk. He shared with the students, “your job is to protect yourself and those around you.” When you are on the tech side, safety is the most important thing.

FINAL TALK

“This tour really helped me see what I want to do. I really liked the audio booth and the fly rail,” said Leo, a sophomore at Westwood High School. Following Leo sharing this, one of Leo’s classmates chuckled and said that one day Leo will be leading Tech Tours!

“Theater is a small community.

We support each other and look out for each other.” ­— S H AU N S H U LT Z , P R O D U CT I O N M A N AG E R AS U G A M M AG E

Tech Tours is supported by APS. For more information on ways you can support programs like Tech Tours, call 602-373-3377.

VOLUME 38 | 2024

16

BROADWAY

1

2

Former ASU Gammage

Assistant House Manager’s

journey to touring Broadway

Anna Cortabitarte returns home for JAGGED LITTLE PILL musical

By Alexis Alabado Cortabitarte poses next to a JAGGED LITTLE PILL poster in Houston, Texas. She currently is on the tour as Assistant Company Manager.

1

2 Cortabitarte’s first day back at the venue after the COVID shutdown in May 2021.

Anna Cortabitarte is a true inspiration. Having worked at ASU Gammage for four years before graduating from Arizona State University in December 2021, she currently boasts the title of Assistant Company Manager on the national tour of JAGGED LITTLE PILL. “Theater was never truly my passion or hobby until I started working at ASU Gammage,” Anna explained. “It was there I realized that I could actually make a career doing this.”

Born and raised in Chandler, Cortabitarte first saw a show at ASU Gammage when she was six years old. She started school at ASU in the fall of 2017 and with it got her first gig at ASU Gammage as a floor manager.

During her sophomore year at ASU, Cortabitarte had the opportunity to take a specialty class through the theater department that corresponded with ASU Gammage’s Broadway season. Like many students, she felt that she didn’t have

17

ASU GAMMAGE INNER CIRCLE

a clear path with what she wanted to do post-graduation.

All of that changed with one Talkback, a post-show Q&A with cast and crew.

“It was truly like a lightbulb above my head went off,” Cortabitarte said. “We had a Talkback with the company manager of DEAR EVAN HANSEN. At the time I had no idea what I wanted to do and felt very lost. But everything he said about his role and what his day to day was, it was just eyeopening. I went home from that experience and was like, ‘Yeah, I’m going to be a company manager.’”

Through her time at ASU Gammage, Cortabitarte eventually became an Assistant House Manager. She said going to school full time while also working every single Broadway run taught her how to have a good work-life balance. She also met her best friend while working at ASU Gammage, fellow Assistant House Manager Eric Espeland!

Her time at ASU Gammage paved the way for her future endeavors outside of Arizona.

“I think my biggest takeaway from ASU Gammage is that creative problems require really creative solutions,” she said. “I think I saw so many times dealing with the general public that crazy things are going to happen, and a lot of times you have to find a crazy solution to be able to appease everyone and create a good and safe solution.”

When HAMILTON re-opened the theater post-pandemic in fall of 2021, she became good friends with the COVID safety team. They expressed needing help in future cities, and she provided them her contact information. Immediately after, she got a call and joined the team. Her last semester at ASU was a whirlwind: She would fly out every couple of weeks to wherever the HAMILTON tour was and work the first few days setting up COVID testing before flying back to school.

From there, the touring bug would come into full swing. Cortabitarte went from working for HAMILTON to WICKED as a COVID Safety Manager, to then packing up her things to start work as Company

Management Assistant on JERSEY BOYS’ run in Yakima, Washington.

“The amount of work was crazy, but I think it was the best thing to set me up to be a successful company manager,” she explained. “It really lights a fire underneath you. You have to learn it. And you have to be good at it. Because you’re going to be doing it six times a week.”

Cortabitarte then went on to work at a regional theater in Rhode Island before booking a job for the national tour of ANNIE. She finally settled into what is now her current role of Assistant Company Manager at JAGGED LITTLE PILL. “It had been a show that had been on my bucket list for a really long time,” she said. “I have a degree in intercultural communication with a focus on how the media affects our views on race, gender and social class. Diversity, equity and inclusion are super important to me, and I’ve always been drawn to working at a show where I know there’s something I can use. Seeing a show like JAGGED LITTLE PILL that touches on so many hot button issues, but also has one of the most diverse casting companies that I’ve ever worked with, has been a really cool opportunity.”

As Assistant Company Manager, she is the point of contact for all Shelby Nelson, Bryce DiLullo, Eric Espeland and Cortabitarte on the last day of SUMMER: THE DONNA SUMMER MUSICAL completing their Assistant House Manager training.

Cortabitarte and Marlee Jessen on their last day working at ASU Gammage.

things travel for the company: Booking flights, buses and hotels, making sure that every i is dotted and every t is crossed. Being part of the company management team also means that she is part of the select few that directly represent the producer. She assists the company manager in running payroll every week, handles union benefit reports and is in charge of all things money.

“I think my biggest takeaway from ASU Gammage is that creative problems require creative solutions.”

— A N N A C O RTA B I TA RT E , AS S I STA N T C O M PA N Y M A N AG E R O N T H E N AT I O N A L TO U R O F J AG G E D LITTLE PILL

“Honestly, there’s a million other things, but it’s very much kind of like being the team mom,” she explained. “I handle HR; I’m the shoulder to cry on or the hand to hold and also the person who has to step in and have the difficult conversations.”

A lot of change has been crammed into the last two years, but for Cortabitarte, she handled it all with

a heaping amount of gratitude. She said she can’t wait to celebrate her one-year anniversary on the JAGGED LITTLE PILL tour in her home state when the show comes to ASU Gammage Jan. 30–Feb. 4.

“I’ve been able to make my dream happen, and it’s happened a lot faster than I thought it would,” she said. “My goal was always to be an Assistant Company Manager by 25 and then to be getting my union membership by 30. I started on the road at 22. And I’m currently on an apprentice union contract and will become a full union member in about a year.”

“When I get to ASU Gammage, I know I’m going to just sit on the stage and cry. I’m excited to have my whole family come out to see the show. Family, friends, teachers – I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for them. I’m hoping that I’ll get to talk to some of the front of house staff and tell them that they can do it, they can be a Company Manager. I remember during the pandemic that Arizona felt like the farthest place from Broadway.

But if I can do it, they can too.”

Don’t miss JAGGED LITTLE PILL at ASU Gammage Jan. 30–Feb. 4, 2024. For tickets, visit asugammage.com/ jaggedlittlepill

VOLUME 38 | 2024

18

GAMMY AND JERRY AWARDS

The 2024 Gammy and Jerry Awards On Monday, March 4, ASU Gammage will host its 2024 Gammy and Jerry Awards. It is a dazzling dinner and celebration that recognizes arts heroes whose dedication to the theater embodies the ASU Gammage mission statement of Connecting Communities™.

This year, ASU Gammage will honor Lauren Reid from the John Gore Organization, and ASU Gammage philanthropic superstars the Abbett Family Foundation.

2024 Gammy Winner Lauren Reid When we think about someone whose impact on the industry changes what we do on the road for the better, one name bubbles up to the very top – Lauren Reid. When the COVID-19 pandemic shut down our industry, Lauren was a superhero in helping to get our industry get back on the road. When we think about someone who creates tremendous economic impact across the United States because of their leadership — we think of Lauren.

For the past 30 years, ASU Gammage has been defined by its mission of Connecting Communities™.

As part of the 50th Anniversary celebration in 2014, ASU Gammage began a tradition with the Gammy Award that honors individuals and organizations that embody our mission and make outstanding contributions to theater and the arts.

Lauren Reid, President of the John Gore Organization (JGO), is a 27-year entertainment industry veteran who has built her career out of her lifelong passion for live entertainment. Driven by a commitment to extend the reach of Broadway, Lauren has helped steer JGO, through its various subsidiaries, to become the leading presenter, distributor and marketer of commercial theater. In addition to its dozens of productions currently on Broadway and around the world, JGO presents theater in 48 markets in North America, and reaches more than 35 million fans each year through its variety of digital platforms. JGO’s family of companies, all of which are under Lauren’s operational oversight, includes Broadway Across America, Broadway.com, The Broadway Channel, BroadwayBox.com and Group Sales Box Office.

One of those markets is Tempe. Over the years and through her partnership, Lauren has helped make our Broadway season bigger and better than ever.

19

ASU GAMMAGE INNER CIRCLE

Lauren is also an active member of The Broadway League, where she was named Chair, and currently serves on its Executive Committee and its Board of Governors. Her leadership at The Broadway League also has had major impact on ASU Gammage as well.

With her leadership guiding our industry through the pandemic, creating guidelines for inclusion and creating paths for our future audiences.

“Because of Lauren’s work at the John Gore Organization our partnership continues to grow, our numbers continue to rise, and we continually reach new audiences because of her leadership.

And as Chair of The Broadway League, we feel the outstanding effects of her leadership there and the impact it has on our theater. We are so honored to celebrate Lauren Reid with the Gammy Award.” ­ C O L L E E N J E N N I N G S - R O G G E N S AC K , AS U V I C E P R ES I D E N T — FO R C U LT U R A L A F FA I R S A N D E X EC U T I V E D I R ECTO R O F AS U G A M M AG E

2024 Jerry Winner Abbett Family Foundation This year, ASU Gammage is honoring the Abbett Family Foundation with the 2024 Jerry Award.

Accepting the award on the foundation’s behalf are Jeffrey Abbett and Jenniffer Jarvis. The Abbett Family Foundation shares ASU Gammage’s mission of Connecting Communities™ by providing access and opportunities to the arts for all. Their support for ASU Gammage school programs includes Disney Musicals in Schools, School to Work, Kaleidoscope and Performances for Students.

This allows ASU Gammage to reach more students each year with these powerful initiatives.

“We are forever grateful for Jeff, Jenniffer and the Abbett Family Foundation. They are always looking for ways to help grow our programs and to allow us to connect with more students,” said Colleen JenningsRoggensack, ASU Vice President for Cultural Affairs and Executive Director of ASU Gammage.

The relationship between ASU Gammage and the Abbett Family Foundation began in 2015, the same year the family formed the foundation. With a desire to create more opportunities for students to experience the arts, the partnership began with a scholarship to cover transportation costs to and from ASU Gammage. Additionally, the foundation used to sponsor the ASU Gammage Molly Blank Fund Kaleidoscope program, where students complete a curriculum and are then invited to a performance with the opportunity to meet the cast. These programs were the first of many which would benefit from the foundation’s grants.

“They came to us and explained their commitment to improving the lives of those outside the Phoenix area by supporting education programs and providing better access for students. They started by supporting Performances for Students, Kaleidoscope and School to Work generally, as well as funding specific needs that keep many students from accessing these programs, such as bus scholarships. They also offered additional support for the Molly Blank Fund Teaching Artist Program for all three years of the program’s run. All of this was sort of with an eye on filling community needs and providing greater access,” said Peter Means, ASU Gammage Senior Director of Development.

When COVID-19 paused all K-12 in-person programming, there was nobody bringing the local community to the theater anymore. Working strategically with ASU Gammage, the foundation provided the funding to procure a state-of-the-art streaming platform for ASU Gammage to live stream

Performances for Students to thousands of students and teachers across Arizona, California and New Mexico, more than doubling the reach of the program.

Post-pandemic, the streaming platform is still used to bring cultural participation programs and live performances to schools in remote areas of Arizona.

In 2022, the Abbett Family Foundation supported the newest ASU Gammage Cultural Participation Program, Disney Musicals in Schools. Disney Musicals in Schools is a free after-school program offered to a limited number of Title I schools each year. A five-year commitment from the foundation helped launch this new program, a first in building sustainable theater programs in under-resourced public elementary schools.

“Jeffrey, Jenniffer and the Abbett Family Foundation are true champions of the arts. We thank them for their commitment to ASU Gammage and dedication to reaching students across Arizona’s communities. We are honored to award them this year’s Jerry Award,” said Jennings-Roggensack.

We hope you join us on March 4, 2024. You will get to dine on the ASU Gammage stage, have the best seating locations for the 2024–2025 season announce event following the dinner, and most importantly help us to celebrate Lauren Reid and the Abbett Family Foundation!

Proceeds will benefit the ASU Gammage’s Cultural Participation programs. For more information visit: asugammage.com/gammyandjerry.

VOLUME 38 | 2023

20

asugammage.com/gammyandjerry 21

ASU GAMMAGE INNER CIRCLE

Quarteto Nuevo perform at the 63rd LAC Holiday Celebration.

Quarteto Nuevo

Acclaimed Los Angeles global jazz ensemble Quarteto Nuevo will present groundbreaking live concert By X recording at ASU Kerr Original work “Jazz Road Suite” explores nine states in the American West

By Stacey Bailey

ASU Kerr has been selected as the venue for Los Angelesbased global jazz ensemble Quarteto Nuevo’s live concert recording of their expansive ode to the American West: “Jazz Road Suite (Western States).”

The live performance and audiovisual recording will happen at ASU Kerr on Saturday, March 9, and the music will be formally released as a concert album.

“Jazz Road Suite” is part of Quarteto Nuevo’s “C.R.E.E.D. Project,” the band’s in-depth exploration of the connections of jazz to geographical and cultural locations.

Quarteto Nuevo recently won a $40,000 Jazz Road Creative Residency grant in support of the project. Jazz Road is a national initiative of South Arts, which is funded by the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation with additional support from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.

Band members are actively composing five new movements sparked by insights gained from research about the regions,

audience feedback and personal experiences while touring in Arizona, Alaska, California, Nevada and Oregon during the 2023–2024 season. The new movements will be added to the four previously composed movements for Colorado, Montana, Utah and Wyoming to complete the “Jazz Road Suite (Western States).”

Quarteto Nuevo is performing the full “Jazz Road Suite” in each of the states and having fun, informal talkbacks with showgoers after the concerts. The quartet wants to discover how the pieces resonated with the communities for which they were composed.

Conversations are documented on video as part of the project.

“We’re very excited about this grant, especially the concert and recording at ASU Kerr,” said Damon Zick, soprano saxophonist and one of the composers in Quarteto Nuevo.

“We want to maximize the impact of this funding for the venue as well as the band.”

The ensemble plans for “Jazz Road Suite” to evolve and

expand. Their long-term goal is to compose movements for all 50 states in the U.S. Quarteto Nuevo weaves the sounds and energies of distant places and ancient worlds with a rhythm and spirit intended to bring joy to all ages and backgrounds.

The band builds grooving, relaxing and rich soundscapes with instruments and sensibilities that represent very different world cultures. Their unique instrumentation vibrantly colors their vast repertoire, from Chick Corea to Egberto Gismonti to Frank Zappa and the quartet’s striking original compositions.

Quarteto Nuevo is made up of four musicians: Damon Zick – soprano sax, Jacob Szekely – cello, Kenton Youngstrom – guitar and Felipe Fraga – percussion.

Don’t miss the Quarteto Nuevo’s performance and recording March 9, 2024 at ASU Kerr. Tickets on sale at asukerr.com VOLUME 38 | 2024

22

Member • $120 and above

Contributing Member • $300 and above

Supporting Member • $600 and above

Directors Club • $1,500 and above

Kathryn Gammage Circle • $3,000 and above

Grady Gammage Society • $6,000 and above

Producers Academy • $10,000 and above

Investors Guild • $25,000 and above

ASU Gammage VIP Donor Club as of Nov. 1, 2023

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Opportunity to purchase tickets before the general public (when available)

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Visits to the VIP Donor Lounge

2

4

benefits

Subscription to Inner Circle Magazine

Recognition in show programs

•

unlimited visits •

•

•

•

•

Invitation to behind-the-scenes events and cast parties^

•

•

•

•

•

Great seats and private VIP Donor Club ticketing concierge services*

•

•

•

•

•

For Season Ticket Holders: Priority seating in VIP Donor Club subscriber seats (number of tickets and location based on donor level)*

2

4

6

8

10

For Single Ticket Buyers: Priority seating available (number of tickets and location based on donor level)*

2

4

6

8

10

Reserved parking at ASU Gammage

•

•

•

•

Annual luncheon with the ASU Gammage Executive Director

•

•

•

•

Invitations to exclusive events

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Your photo in the ASU Gammage VIP Donor Club Leadership Gallery Special opportunities tailored to your individual needs and interests Special lobby and website recognition

•

VIP Donor Club Guidelines: You must maintain your annual VIP Donor Club contribution at or above the Directors Club level in order to enjoy VIP donor seating. Special subscription seating and location is offered to VIP donors in the Orchestra level in rows 3–20 in the VIP and A price levels dependent on donation level. VIP Donor Club benefits may be available only upon your request, at your expense (if any) and subject to availability. Benefits are effective immediately and are subject to change without notice. Annual donation of $1500+ is required in addition to the cost of the tickets. ^To be announced * Subject to availability

Corporate Foundation Sponsors Corporate/ Foundation Sponsors

$100,000+ Desert Financial Credit Union $99,999–$75,000 Abbett Family Foundation Broadway Across America The Molly Blank Fund of the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation $74,999–$25,000 George Brazil Plumbing and Electrical 23

ASU GAMMAGE INNER CIRCLE

Margaret T. Morris Foundation $24,999–$10,000 APS Arizona Community Foundation Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, Inc. Tim Trumble Photography, Inc. Union Pacific Foundation

$9,999–$2,500 Airpark Signs Arizona Business Magazine Bell Bank Gammage & Burnham Target

BOLD indicates $50K cumulative giving to ASU Gammage *denotes multi-year commitment

Golden Gammage Investors These individual donors and

foundations cumulative giving have totaled $100,000 or more.

Abbett Family Foundation Susan and William Ahearn Allen-Heath Memorial Foundation Pat and Bill Andrew APS Arizona Community Foundation Carol Barmore Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Baughman Barbara, Irv and Jeremy Berger Carmen and Michael Blank F. Richard Bloechl Family Lee Bowman George Brazil Plumbing and Electrical Broadway Across America Dawna and Dan Calderone Joan Cremin Cathy Dickey JO Finks Karen and Grady Gammage, Jr. Janet and Chip Glaser Laurie and Chuck Goldstein Joanne and Mark Halberg Michelle Jung and Chris Rodriguez Patricia Kaufman Gail and John Krueger The Hugh W. Long, Jr. Family Rae and Richard S. Love The Kemper and Ethel Marley Foundation Merrily Metzger Marcia and Andrew Meyer Lesley and Paul Monfardini Margaret T. Morris Foundation Jenny Norton and Bob Ramsey Jeffrey D. Oliver Rod and Julie Rebello Jeff and Leslie Rich Rosenbluth Family Foundation Diane Rosztoczy Jana and Charles Sample Christy and Richard Schust Joanne Schust Enid and Michael Seiden Ticketmaster Marsha and Charles Van Dam Mary and Bill Way/Way Family Charitable Foundation Ray and Sue York

Legacy

Susan and William Ahearn Nancy Anderson and Curt McLees Carol Barmore Wesley Beckley George and Patricia Brazil Linda Broomhead and Terese Sanchez

Marlene Bushard Kim Cahow Angela and David Conwell Carl J. Cross Cindy and Terry DeBoer JO Finks Phillip Gillies Alan and Anita Handelsman Carl and Patricia Harris Ronald H. Harten Jay and Rojon Hasker David N. Horowitz Jacqueline HuffordJensen and Greg Kroening Pat Kaufman Shirley Kruger Sue Larsen Cheryl and Mickey Laurent Mark Leeper Rae and Richard S. Love Douglas Lowe Cathy Mazur Ellis and Kiran Means Merrily Metzger Ron and Vickie Neill Stephanie Nowack Simon Olstein Clyde C. Parker, Jr. Dr. and Mrs. Michael Pollay Russell A. Robbins Dr. Lynn Robershotte Mitchell and Heather Ross Brenda and Jim Rowland Tamara Scrivner Mr. and Mrs. Russell Smith Ava Spanier Karen Stone Bruce C. Thoeny Brinley Thomas Mollie C. Trivers John O. and Betty Whiteman

Investors Guild

Susan and William Ahearn* Allen-Heath Memorial Foundation Carmen and Michael Blank* Lee Bowman* Joan Cremin* Dr. and Mrs. Charles Goldstein* Great Clips Brian C. Jones and Vaughn A. Lovell* Tamara Scrivner

Producers Academy

Buffie and Ray Anderson Rhet and Marcia Andrews

Anonymous Reginald M. Ballantyne III Carol Barmore and Phil Hineman Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Baughman* Howard and Lisa Bell Dawna and Dan Calderone Carstens Family Funds Jacqueline Chadwick, MD Dr. James Cord and Charles Brazeal The Desmarteau Family Janet and Chip Glaser Joanne and Mark Halberg* Jay and Rojon Hasker Michelle Jung and Chris Rodriguez* Patricia Kaufman* Rosey and Justin Kerchal Gail and John Krueger Evelyn and John Lucking Cheryl Mandala Steve and Rhonda Maun Merrily Metzger Marcia and Andrew Meyer Jenny Norton and Bob Ramsey* Arthur and Linda Pelberg Rod and Julie Rebello Rosenbluth Family Foundation* Brenda and Jim Rowland Jana and Charles Sample Joanne Schust Donna and Philip Stover Melissa Trudelle Karen S. Wood-Nackard Ray and Sue York

Grady Gammage Society

Anonymous Doug Ball and Connie Stine Karen and Gary Bethune Joe and Rose Circello Sasha and Christopher Clements Crystal Family Foundation Lee Eberle and Lisa Vivian Dr. and Mrs. Steven Farber Mary Farrington-Lorch and Martin Lorch* Sophia and Mike Fong Vicki Gibbons Neil G. Giuliano

Davie Glaser In Loving Memory of David H. Glaser Carl and Patricia Harris* Renee and Philip Hoffman* David N. Horowitz and Damon J. Bolling Thomas P. Houlihan and Genevieve M. Houlihan Mike Hughes and Dr. Kevin Mendivil* John Kras and Timothy Walling Bill and Stacey Langhofer Aaron and Brenda LaTowsky Barbara and Don Leffler Rae and Richard S. Love Jeffrey D. Oliver Sandie and Hollis Phillips Linda and Chuck Redman Judy and Harold Samloff Christy and Richard Schust The Scollick Family Enid and Michael Seiden* Lorri and Stephen Smith Tiller Family Foundation Kerry Turner Marsha and Charles Van Dam* Patrick and Amy Vance Michelle and Henry Villeda* Greg Yagi and Alan Paulson Patrick H. Zanzucchi Barbara and Barry Zemel

Kathryn Gammage Circle

AADS Office Solutions and Kathleen Cullen Mariana and Richard Abelson Helene and Marshall Abrahams The Abrams Family Brian and Paula Aleksa Nancy and Warren Alter* Donna and Jim Anderson Anderson, Chavet and Anderson Inc. Andrew Family Foundation Anonymous Felice Appell Tran and Glenn Appell Linda and Richard Avner Kevin Axx BOK Financial James and Sandra Bach

Lory Baraz and Robert Zucker Lisa and Harley Barnes, Jr. Craig and Barbara Barrett Bassett Family The Beattie Family The Julie Bennett Family, in Memory of Michael Kristy and David Benton Barbara, Irv and Jeremy Berger* Mr. and Mrs. John Berry Max and Laura Bessler Dr. and Mrs. Robert Bickes, Jr. Leslie and Alan Bird Col. Jody Blanchfield The Blunck Family Jon and Jennifer Bohnert Tara and Todd Bookspan Teresa and Mark Borota Dr. Robert and Lorrin Bowser Kelly Brandt Michael and Sarah Braun Shirley F. Brown and Fred L. Brown Steve and Belinda Brown In Honor of Debra Burk Carrie and Daniel Burkes Elizabeth Burm Greg and Sarah Byrne Lou and Melissa Caramucci Linda Carneal Matt and Jill Casperson Causenta Wellness and Cancer Care Center Children’s Dental Village Helen Cho Dan Churgin Traci and Philip Cilliers Marilee and David Clarke Dr. and Mrs. Lance Cohen Lee Baumann Cohn and Mike Cohn John H. Cole III M.D. and Patrick T. Boyhan Angela and David Conwell Michael Cordova and Patricia Quinn Andrea and Matt Cowley Heidi Cox, Tracey Bryce, Wayne and Emilie Truong James L. Cramer and Allen C. Kalchik Eileen Curtin Dr. Mindi and Anthony D’Elia Ellen and Andy Dauscher Beth and Ed Dawkins

In Loving Memory of Terry DeBoer & Cody Meckstroth In Loving Memory of Laurie Dennhardt* Nancy Dean and Lorree Ratto Mr. and Mrs. Tom DeBonis Bette DeGraw Amena Deluca, MD and David Jackson, MD Teresa and Michael Dempsey Brenda and Gary Deutsch Dr. Wendy Dickerson Erika and Russ Dickey Jackie and James Disney Robert Donat Michael Drexler Carmen and Mike Duffek Cynthia Emmons Daniel Eng Michele and Chris England Virginia and Ron Erhardt Michele and Michael Etheridge Jane P. Evans Ardie and Steve Evans Ray and Bettijune Fanning* Skip and Wendy Farrell Allyson and Justin Fernstrom JO Finks Susan and John Fisher For Those Without A Voice Sandra J. Fromm* Mimi and Sandford Furman Angela and Christopher Fylak Karen and Grady Gammage Jr. Kathleen Gariboldi and Denis Fallon Kyla and Michael Garrison* Eric Gehrig and Nura Patani Andy and Carolyn Gilb Mrs. Saul Ginsberg Ed Grabowski Penni Graham John and Deanne Greco Kimberly and John Grubb Joan and Al Gudriks Gretchen and Jim Haahr Sharon and Ollie Harper Nora and Tim Hart Marilyn and Paul Harter Joseph and Jamie Hedgecoth Jon and Donna Hendrickson Beth and Bill Hicks Katie and Tim Hill

VOLUME 38 | 2024

24

ASU Gammage VIP Donor Club continued Jacki and Charles Hoagland Andrea and Herbert Hodes Bruce Hopkins and Carol Walters Jacqueline HuffordJensen and Greg Kroening Christine Hughes Tara and Nikhil Iyengar Jaburg and Wilk, P.C. Bonnie and William Jaeger Kim Jameson and Jon Ann Hockersmith Colleen JenningsRoggensack and Dr. Kurt Roggensack* Dr. Lyndy Jones Peggy R. Joslin and Nicholas Joslin Jane and Tom Joynt Brian and Terri Katz The Keller Family The Kerr Family Norman and Teresa Klein Family Stacy and Alan Klibanoff* Shirley Kruger Michelle Laiss-Lipner* Patricia and Mark Landay Cheryl and Mickey Laurent Deb and Frank Law Machrina and Dale Leach* Kathy and Albert Leffler Hope and Steven Leibsohn Katie and Mark Leinweber Mark Leeper Edward and Emily Lesser Herb and Nancy Lienenbrugger Fuyu Lin and Samuel Anderson Regan and Rigo Lopez Ronaldo Luanzon and William Jeffery Keli and Kurt Luther Kalidas and Darlene Madhavpeddi Foundation Bonnie Maffi, Julia Burke, Nancy Singer and Marci Symington Kristen and Doug Magnuson Chad Makovsky and Stephanie Hurd Mike Malloy and Shandee Chernow Dr. and Mrs. Gerald Mandell Dr. Celia Maneri* Ana and Hans Maron Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Marotta In Loving Memory of Caleb Joseph Martinez Cathy Mazur

25

Elisabeth and Kevin McCord Leslie McDonnell In Memory of Jack McDonnell Christopher McDowell and John Warford Robbyn McDowell David Meyer and Elite Cleaners Allison and Tommy Meyer Mary and Kurt Meyer Bruce Meyerson and Mary Ellen Simonson Kathleen A. Mickle, Karen B. Roth and Erica Lloyd Paulette and Michael Miller Lina and Raymond Mogensen Lesley and Paul Monfardini Kathleen and Barry Monheit Larry and Virginia Morrison Teresa and James Mortensen Loraine and Jim Mottern Dawn and John Mulligan Rafael and Mary Munoz Christine and Frank Nechvatal Vickie and Ron Neill Dick and Jane Neuheisel Karen Norstrand* Diane and Steve Norris Eric Novack and Tracy Contant Lisa and James Olson Linda and Kevin Olson Jill Ormond & Jay Kramer Mr. and Mrs. Enrique Ortega Darcy and Mark Ortiz Frank and Ginny Palamara Leah Pallin-Hill and Bryan Hill Papp Family Foundation Dr. and Mrs. Donald Patterson Kathy and Dwight Peters Pat Piazza Jennifer and Noah Plumb MaryLee and Glen Poole Practice Strategies The Prygocki Family Susan and Mike Pucelik Dr. Carolyn Ragatz and Mr. Phillip Ragatz* Wayne and Billie Rawlings Kristina Reese and Chris Reese Jeff and Leslie Rich Keri and Steven Richardson Suzanne and Nick Rinker* Dr. Lynn Robershotte and Bryce Franz Ilana and Alan Roga

ASU GAMMAGE INNER CIRCLE

John, Dee and Paul Rogers Larry and Lisa Rogoff Mario Trejo Romero and G. Lewis Penrose Mitchell and Heather Ross Dr. Kyle Rowland Susan and Gil Rudolph Norm and Pam Saba Larry and Cathy Sanders Bryan and Katherine Sandler and Janis Merrill Dr. Joel Schein and Dr. Diana LaulainenSchein Ellen and Paul Schifman Lyrna and Michael Schoon Paul and Jan Schrage Ursula and Rick Schultz Jesse and Jennifer Schwarz Mr. and Mrs. Danny Sharaby/Tickets Unlimited Carolyn and William Shine III Michele Shipitofsky and Eric Rosenberg Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Smith Jeffrey and Deborah Smith Spracale Family Frances and Unni Sreekumar Dr. Cheri St. Arnauld Mr. and Mrs. Ron Starkman Judith and Louis Stein Dr. Barry and Judith Stern Morgan Stewart and Barbara Page Cheryl Sucato Shoshana Tancer Sheri and Tim Tapia Brinley Thomas and Charles Bentley Mollie C. Trivers UMB Bank Susan Van Dyke MD Mark and Lynn Vanderlinde/VRealty Advisors Dr. Robert and Julia Wacloff Dale and Sheryl Wanek Col. Alexander Warschaw Suzanne and Craig Weaver Jolene and Harv Weisblat Philanthropic Fund of the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation Leesa and George Weisz Gary and Kristi West Maidie G. Westlie Christine and Emery Wiggs

Jana and Mark Wilcke* Todd and Tammy Wilkening Dr. Brian and Dawn Williams Daryl and Karly Williams Wyatt and Bobbi Wood Martha Scales Zachary In Loving Memory of Charlie Zarrelli*

Directors Club

Access Buyers Security Mortgage Howard and Wendy Allenberg John and Jamie Alston Jennifer, Zoe and Dustin Anderson Tamara Andreas and Joe Hudgick Anonymous Meng Ansley Anthom Foundation Louraine Arkfeld Christine and Rocky Armfield Karen and Bob Armknecht Char and Alan Augenstein Michael and Judith Awender Melody Baca and Marsha Baer Robert Badhorn Gail and Michael Baer Jim Barash and Dr. Tamar Gottfried The Barron Silva Family Anthony and Scott Barshay Terry and Gay Barwald Thomas and Polly Baughman In Memory of Margaret Ann Beardsley Karen Beckvar and David Sprentall Mary Bedient Chris and Dana Benner Gina and Gregory Berman E.M. Berry Amy and Robert Bessen Helen Bigham Scot and Dawn Bingman Suzanne and David Black* Michelle and John Bonano The Bonnett Family Kelley, John and Justin Bonowski Adam Bowman Elna M. Brown Patti and Rick Brown Frank and Karen Buntschuh In Memory of Jewel Burdsal Stephanie and Brad Butler* Mr. and Mrs. Steve Byers

Cathy and John Calhoun The Callis Family Elaine and Paul Campbell Caroline Carney and Nick Adamakis Joy Caton, BSN Kent Cattani Dr. David and Mrs. Georgiana Cave Michelle and Carl Chasse Kathryn A. Christmann Malissia Clinton Christopher Coffer Cohen Down Quigley Sam and Heidi Cohen Alison Cole Rebecca and Jon Crawford Carl J. Cross Tiresa and Lawrence Damore Marisa and Kerwin Danley Melissa Davis Drs. Fred and Suzie DePrez Halise Diamond and Andrew Simon Donna Dichiaro In Memory of Bob Dichiaro Dilemma Hair Salon Michael and Julie Dillon Gary and Cherie Donahoe Janice Donnelly and John King Jo Dresh Terra and Matthew Duke Hannah Durrett David Dyer Cheryl Eames Nancy and Dave Edwards The Empey Family Lou and Rick Ender Jody Epperson Edward Evans Dino and Linda Farfante Rachel and Philip Fields Dr. Allen W. Flores Rhonda Fournier Stanley Fuelscher Isaac and Alison Gabriel Megan Gailey and Michael Brown Janice G. Gale Linda and Joseph Garcia Monica Garnes Marybeth and Jimmy Garrett Dr. Philip E. and Roseann M. Geiger Diane and Robert Gibboni Dr. and Mrs. Peter Giovan Helen and Joe Goldblatt Jan and Bucky Green Vicki Greener Gary and Jacque Griffith Lani and Scott Grone Jill and Jim Gruler Brent M. Gunderson Eva and James Hamant

Hunter Hammond and Matthew Scarnecchia Gretchen and Kristina Haney Lynlie and Myron Hansen Diane Harrison Dottie and Mark Harshbarger Ms. Helene A. Harty Col. and Mrs. Paul Harwood Sharon Hendrix Hensley Beverage Company Daniel Hepworth Dr. Maria L. Hesse Blake and Kristina Honiotes Wayne Horowitz Barbara and Chris Howard Teresa and Darrel Huish Betty Hum Marcia and Jay Iole The Jackson Family Sandra Johnson William and Karen Johnson Thomas and Carly Kelly Alan and Cynthia Kempner Casey and Clara Khaleesi Kierland Mortgage Group, Inc. Jo Krueger Maryanne Krueger and Lon Krueger Kerry Kuehn Mary and Dave Kurrasch Donna and Joel Laubscher David Ledbetter Susan and Brian Lee Jon Lehmberg Matt and Patty Lernor Sara and Salvatore Lettieri Patricia and Paul Lewis Sarah Leydecker and Jeff Cross Tonia and Trent Litchy Lisa Loo Janet and Leo Lora Ms. Austin Lopez LOWY’s Tax Planning & Accounting, PLLC Sharon Lytle-Breen John Martell and Cathy Thuringer Marge Mathers Lindsay and Morgan Mathie Ms. Michelle Matiski and Dr. Alan Snyder Sheran and Doug Mattson Dave and Marnie Maza Judy McBee Marilyn and Mark McCall Celia and Kent McClelland Carol McElroy and Mari Connor

Karri and Joseph McInerney Tamara and Ian McLeod Azar Mehdizadeh and Justin Reynolds The Melikian Family Tasha Menaker and Jesse Garcia John Mertens and Kim Cantor Geri and Christopher Mette Brooke and Jeffrey Meyer Melissa Maggiore David and Melissa Monheit Ariana and Daniel Mormino Kathryn Morrison Seamus and Joanne Mulloy Angela and Jesus Navarro Emily and Cory Nelson Georgia and Ronald Nelson Joe and Lynn Nichols Debbie and Jim Nixon Barbara and Catherine O’Neill Janet Oatfield Di and Danielle Obergh Simon Olstein Shannon Olwine and Mohit Mehta Dr. and Mrs. Donald A. Opila Pam and Gary Passey Valerie and Gregory Patten Pam Peacock - Superior Real Estate Services Maryellen and Mark Pendleton Suzie and David Perkinson Cristine and Valleria Pickett John Phebus Cynthia Pino Jo and Jerry Portillo Lesley Propp Hari Puri Carol and Gregory Rath Marliese and Glen Reeves Frank and Elizabeth Reich Dean Rennell Rebecca P. Ripley and Tara Ripley Swinehart Russell A. Robbins Sharon and James Robbins Chad Robert Lisa and Craig Roberts Dr. and Mrs. Jeff Rockow Theresa and Rene Romero Rosedale Hair Design Kathleen and Joel Rosen Mark and Dena Ross Richard Ross

Kimberly and Jack Ross Kent and Mira Rossman Jeremy and Andrea Rowlett Karen and John Runberg Julie and Joseph Russomanno Beth Saiki-Olsen and Morgan Olsen Jeffrey P. Salomone, M.D. Joe and Elaine Samplin San Roman Family Sherilyn and Joseph Sandor Amy and Mark Schiavoni Katherine and Bryan Schlueter Schlotzsky’s Tammy Schriever Amber and Shaun Schultz John and Rachel Schurz Ken Schutz and Craig Thatcher Christa and Donald Scott Kent and Amy Searle Judy Sera-Windell and Robert Windell Gary Semrow Nelma and Jim Shearer The Sheinin Family Cynthia and Michael Sherman Martin L. Shultz Matthew Simon Jennifer and Reagan Sims Jared and Linzie Smith Jeff Smith and Kevin Smith Teri and Richard Snyder In Memory of Juanita Stein Katherine and Mark Strumpf John and Monica Suriano Tasha and Sharon Toby Teret Taylor Carla and Gary Tenney Karen Thorn Jeremy and Lindsey Thorne Dr. Susan Thrasher and Dr. Charles Schwartz Mr. and Mrs. Sefaattin Tongay Carol Toy and Tricia Toy Patti and Mark Tucker UMB Bank Zeena Ubogy, MD and Millard Thaler, MD The Vaughn Family Megan and Anthony Vu Nicholas Walter Mr. and Mrs. John Waltz Usha and Prem Warrior Phyl Wason* Ben Weinberg Dave and Rose Wertheim Phillip and Susan Whittemore Robert Whyte Suanne Woo and Dana Bearinger

David and Pam Woodbury Brigid Wright and John Patton Frances and Ben Wylie Michelle and Chris Zachar Joseph Zavislak

Supporting Members

Donna and Kirk Anderson Pam and Jeff Bell Janet Bioletto Neva and Jim Bochenek Ann Chafoulias Patricia Fimbres Friedel Family Foundation Carole and Ronnie Gilbert Michelle Louise Johnson Sue Klein Sheila and Rodger McKain Eve and Jim Morse Thomas Ng Ali Odeh Polly Pinney and Connie Dierks Jacob Schwarz Elvia Senter and Norman Buckner, Jr. Sherri Tanis Vicki and Tom Taradash Dr. Selma E. Targovnik John Eric Thomas and Dr. John Migliaro VIP Tours of New York LLC In Loving Memory of Vicky Van Dyke by Elna Brown, Mary LaRue Walker, Robbyn McDowell Dr. Judith G. Wolf Yubeta Family

Twanda Hill Michelle Kauk William and Linda Langer Amy E. Meyertholen Steven Lofgren and Kelsey Mohn Kris Mietzner Nathalie Rennell Leslie Standerfer Orin and Mary Svarc Jo and Don Wilson Stacy Wince Duane Wooten Judith Yates ASU Gammage wishes to thank the hundreds of donors who are not listed due to space limitations.

Contributing Members

Ted Allmon Teresa Amabisca Louis F. and Barbra Burres Anderson Linda Austin Kate Barkley William Becker Jeremy Bennington George and Mary Ann Bradbury Vanna and Robert Campion Phillip Catone and Nicholas Catone Hercules Dellas Janet Dixon and JoAn Tonniges Jill Ford Alyssa Ann Goldstein Sharon and Thomas Gregory Ellin Abbot Hayes Elaine and George Heredia

VOLUME 38 | 2024

26

PO Box 870205 Tempe, AZ 85287-0205 480-965-5062 asugammage.com

Disney Musicals in Schools

Renew your annual VIP donation today!

You made our mission of Connecting Communities™ come to life! Thank you!

We will announce the 24-25 Broadway season on Monday, March 4. The deadline to renew your gift to maintain your benefits for the 24-25 season is March 15.

For more information or to renew your membership, visit asugammage.com/VIP or contact us at 480-727-4262, opt. 2 All funds will be deposited with the ASU Foundation for a New American University, a nonprofit organization that exists to support Arizona State University (ASU). Gifts in support of ASU are subject to foundation policies and fees. Your gift may be considered a charitable contribution. Please consult your tax advisor regarding the deductibility of charitable contributions. G00843 FD300 / CM97038