2021-22 season Shrek the Musical

McColl Family Theatre I April 8 - May 1, 2022

Creativity

Exploration Fun

MUSIC

VI S U A L A R T

ALL LEVELS

2022

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From the Artistic Director Welcome back to the theatre and to Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s 74th season! We’ve got an exciting season in store. Our fall is an homage to our pandemic season. Last year we produced and recorded four shows and shared them digitally with schools across North and South Carolina and are now overjoyed to be able to share them, live and in person, with you.

We open with the imaginative world of My Wonderful Birthday Suit written by Gloria Bond Clunie. Then we highlight a piece from The Kindness Project, Tropical Secrets: Holocaust Refugees in Cuba. This is an incredible look at a young boy’s journey as he flees Germany and tries to find refuge in a new country where he doesn’t speak the language. We end our fall with the gentle and beautiful The Velveteen Rabbit. In the spring we are excited to share the story of Tomás Rivera, the child of migrant workers who eventually becomes the first Mexican American chancellor of the University of California, Riverside, in Tomás and the Library Lady. We then return to the wacky and fun world of Dragon’s Love Tacos. We are honored to present Mike Wiley’s One Noble Journey: A Box Marked Freedom and have been working on a brand-new clown piece for our youngest audiences called Pigs is Pigs. However, as we seek to honor the differences in all people, our final show, Shrek the Musical, captures that celebration like none other. I will leave you with the words of Gingy…but these could be the words of any young person today who, deep down, just wants to let their freak flag fly…

“We spend our whole lives wishing We weren’t so freakin’ strange.

They made us feel that way, But it’s they who need to change.

It’s time to stop the hiding.

It’s time to stand up tall.

Say “Hey world, I’m different.

And here I am!

Splinters and all Splinters and all.”

Adam Burke

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Contents 3

ARTISTIC DIRECTOR’S NOTE

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TITLE PAGE

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CAKE IN THE FACE

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MUSICAL NUMBERS

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CREATIVE TEAM & CAST LISTING

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STAFF & BOARD MEMBERS

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CAST BIOS

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OUR SUPPORTERS

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ENCORE! VOLUNTEER COMMUNITY

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EDUCATION PROGRAMS

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ACTIVITIES

Links FACEBOOK.COM/CTCHARLOTTE INSTAGRAM.COM/CTCHARLOTTENC TWITTER.COM/CTCHARLOTTE YOUTUBE.COM/CTCHARLOTTE

2022-23 SEASON SUBSCRIPTIONS ON SALE NOW ctcharlotte.org

Shrek the Musical

Based on the Dreamworks Animation Motion Picture and the book by William Steig

Book and Lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire

Music by Jeanine Tesori

Originally produced on Broadway by Dreamworks Theatricals and Neal Street Productions Shrek the Musical-TYA Version is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com

Director Adam Burke Choreographer Ron Chisholm Music Director Charlene Miranda Thomas Scenic Designer Alessia Carpoca Costume Designer Mieka van der Ploeg* Lighting Designer Aimee Hanyzewski Sound Designer Jason Romney Projections Designer Thomas La Puppet Designer Magda Guichard

* Represented by United Scenic Artists Local USA 829 of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stagehands

Videotaping, photography and other recording of this production is prohibited.

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Celebrating All of Life’s Stages Wherever your charitable interest lies, you have the power to create a better community. From establishing your first charitable fund to planning your estate – and every generous act in between – FFTC helps you make a lasting impact.

Inspiring the Art of Philanthropy

www.fftc.org | 704.998.6412 | philanthropy@fftc.org

2021-22 Season Today’s celebration is brought to life, in part, by: Omid & Julie Ahdieh Rob & Kate Buckfelder Matthew & Ashley Joseph* Bruce & Anita LaRowe Ann & Scott Manning Pat Burgess & Joan Martin* Brian & Laura Murdock* Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated Children’s Theatre of Charlotte is supported, in part, by the Infusion Fund and its generous donors, The National Endowment for the Arts, and the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural & Cultural Resources. * Indicates donations made to The Linda Reynolds Endowment Fund for Kindness and Wonder.

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Musical Numbers ACT 1 1. Overture 2. Big Bright Beautiful World 3. Story of My Life 4. What’s Up, Duloc?

5. I Know It’s Today 6. Travel Song 7. Forever 8. This is How a Dream Comes True 9. Who I’d Be

ACT 2 10. Morning Person 11. I Think I Got You Beat 12. Make a Move 13. When Words Fail 14. Morning Person (Reprise) 15. Freak Flag 16. Big Bright Beautiful World (Reprise #1) 17. Beautiful Ain’t Always Pretty 18. Finale 19. I’m a Believer

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CREATIVE TEAM Director - Adam Burke Choreographer - Ron Chisholm Music Director - Charlene Miranda Thomas Scenic Designer - Alessia Carpoca Costume Designer - Mieka van der Ploeg Lighting Designer - Aimee Hanyzewski Sound Designer - Jason Romney Projections Designer - Thomas La Puppet Designer - Magda Guichard CAST Shrek - Ashton Guthrie Princess Fiona - Lexie Wolfe Donkey - Rahsheem Shabazz Lord Farquaad - Ryan Wesley Stinnett Dragon, Ensemble - Isabel Gonzalez Gingy, Wicked Witch, Queen Lillian, Ensemble - Katy Shepherd Papa Ogre, Papa Bear, Ensemble - Griffin Digsby Pinocchio, Ensemble - Adrian Thornburg Wolf, Thelonius, King Harold, Ensemble Brandon J. Johns Mama Bear, Mama Ogre, Three Blind Mice, Ensemble - Jennifer Poarch Peter Pan, Three Blind Mice, Ensemble - Emma Metzger Young Shrek, Mad Hatter - Luke McCammon Pig #1, Ensemble - Isa Long Pig #2, Ensemble - Abby Johnson Pig #3, Ensemble - Anaiah Jones Teen Fiona, Sugar Plum Fairy - Sophie Belle Henry Baby Bear, Ensemble - Jordyn Mae Friedman Young Fiona, Ensemble - Bailey Fischer Lead Guard, Puppeteer - Will Higginbotham Ugly Duckling - CJ Higginbotham Grumpy Dwarf, Elf - Andrew Ahdieh Three Blind Mice, Blue Fairy - Karsen Betzold Guard, Puppeteer, Ensemble - Leighton Cooper, Hanna Atilano UNDERSTUDIES Morgan Wakefield, Robert Briner FOR THIS PRODUCTION Stage Manager – Laura Beth Lee Student Supervisor - Steven James Deck Chief - Josh Lucero

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Run Crew - Maddi Penn, Amber Bidwell, Dez Carrington Wardrobe Supervisor - Loren Moody Wardrobe Crew - Rosibel Hernandez, Jirah Brown, Lauren Smith Stitchers - Rosibel Hernandez, Lauren Smith, Loren Moody Crafts - Amanda Barth, Katy Sigmon Make-up Designer - Katy Sigmon Wig Designer - Jason Estrada Carpenters - Greg Lilly, Mandy Peeler Lightboard Operator - Robyn Warfield Sound Mixer - Brandy Brogden Mic Tech - Jessica Clapper Spotlight Operators - Zachary Helm, Tiana Jones, Dashiell Pledger-Levine Dance Captain - Jennifer Poarch Dialect Coach - Jill Bloede Scenic Artist - Zoe Harrison Master Electrician - Robyn Warfield Electricians - Brandy Brogden, Josh Lucero, Andy Hollar, Lane Palmer, Jessica Clapper Keyboard/Synth Programming - Kevin Roland and KeyboardTEK, LLC Musicians Matthew Primm, Jessica Borgnis - Keyboard John Hogan - Drums Jack Murray - Reeds Michael Murphy - Trumpet Natalya Petrova - Percussion Harley - Bass John Sharp - Guitar Megan Tuttle - Horn Leigh Marsh - Violin SPECIAL THANKS Danielle Burke, James Duke and Central Piedmont Community College, Stephanie Phillips and Max

STAFF OF THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CHARLOTTE Artistic Director – Adam Burke Managing Director - Nao Tsurumaki Administration Finance Director - Tracy Chandler Staff Accountant - Nancy Deel Human Resources Manager - Carolyn Lugo-Allred ImaginOn Partnership Coordinator - Maryann O’Keeffe ImaginOn Administrative Support - Casey Kaufmann Production Director of Production - Steven Levine Interim Costume Shop Manager - Magda Guichard Assistant Costume Shop Manager - Beth Chaitman Cutter/Draper - Colette Adatto Production Stage Manager - Laura Beth Lee Resident Stage Manager - Steven James Production Assistant - Alison Wieder Properties Manager - Cassie Ward Technical Director - Andrew Gibbon Master Carpenter - John Slechta Charge Scenic Artist - Tim Parati Resident Sound Designer/AV Supervisor - Tyler Knowles Resident Lighting Designer/Master Electrician - Robyn Warfield Swing Technician - Andy Hollar Education Director of Education - Michelle Long Early Childhood & SOTT Manager - Adam Montague Camps & Community Programs Manager - Mary Katherine Smith Administrative Assistant - Cat Koski Resident Teaching Artists - Karen Steele & Kaitlin Gentry Development Director of Development – Spencer Clair Associate Director of Development - Scott Tynes-Miller Operations & Special Events Manager - Lauren Taylor Individual Giving Manager- Olivia Horton Marketing and Communications Director of Marketing & Communications - Cindy Taylor Associate Director of Marketing - Rob Odum Customer Experience Manager - Ashley Hughes Social Media Maven – Alex Aguilar School Performance Coordinator/Staff EDI Lead - Arlethia Hailstock Touring Performance Coordinator - Margot Parrott IT Manager - Claire Whitworth-Helm Audience Service Coordinator - Louise Lawson

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair - Ashley Joseph Past Chair - Tim Rogers Treasurer - Stacia Neugent Sallie Beason Kristin Black Mary Alice Boyd Julio Colmenares Leigh Hickman Ben Hume Stephanie Isham William Jefferson Mitchell Kelling Shirley Lamm Rebecca Lindahl Salem McMullan Jennifer Madara Catherine Malone Scott Manning Lisa Miller Maddie Myers Mallory Navin Kerbie Neal Stacia Neugent Kristen Sario Chris Socha Nichelle Weintraub Judith Whelan April Whitlock Honorary Lifetime Members Robin Branstrom Carla DuPuy Peter Flur Cynthia Lank Linda Lockman-Brooks Advisory Board Robin Branstrom Tom Eiselt Jami Farris Peter Flur Gina Lawrence ENCORE! President Caryn Craige

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Cast Ashton Guthrie (Shrek) returns to Children’s Theatre of Charlotte where you might remember him from past season hits, The Invisible Boy and Pete the Cat. A Charlotte native, Ashton now resides in Pittsburgh, PA. Regional: Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera, Pittsburgh Public Theater, Heritage Theatre Festival, and Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center. Local credits: The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical at Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte and Central Piedmont Summer Theatre’s Oklahoma!, Newsies, and Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder. Guthrie has a BFA in Acting from Point Park University. Ashton is a Cat Dad, Make Up Artist, and Fun Fact: happy to be reunited with high school musical theatre sweetheart, Lexie Wolfe.

We both have grey cats and after this we hope they will marry. IG: @ashclay.

Lexie Wolfe (Princess Fiona) is beyond thrilled to be returning to Children’s Theatre of Charlotte after almost 10 years!

She was most recently seen in Disney’s Finding Nemo the Musical (Nemo). Select regional credits: Hello, Dolly! (Minnie Fay), Winter Wonderettes (Suzy), Little Women (Meg), and Cabaret (Fraulein Kost). Lexie holds a degree 14

in B.F.A. in Musical Theater from East Carolina University. “All my love and gratitude to the people who held my hand while I anxiously awaited the chance to perform again. You know who you are!”

Rahsheem Shabazz (Donkey) is so happy to be working with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte again. His previous roles include the world premiere of GRIMMZ Fairy Tales (Actor/Choreographer), Liars (Jace’s Dad), Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds (Dr. Bird) and Madagascar: A Musical Adventure (King Julian). He has appeared on CBS’s Under The Dome, as well as many productions at the Actors Theatre of Charlotte. This talented young man also danced for the Charlotte Hornets Hive Hip Hop dance crew and is excited to be back on stage at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte.

Ryan Wesley Stinnett (Lord Farquaad) is a performer, comedian, and writer. Most notably he was in the original Off-Broadway production of Puffs (Narrator) at New World Stages.

This past year he was seen in Rock of Ages (Hertz) at Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte and in This Happened Once at the Romance Depot off the I-87 in Westchester (Kevin) at Forestburgh Playhouse. Select NYC credits include Liza Birkenmeier’s The

Cast cont’d Hollower (Pigman), Catya McMullen’s Locked Up B$#%*$! (Bull), Niegel Smith and Todd Shalom’s Take Care (Ryan), Elizabeth Swados and Erin Courtney’s The Nomad (Vava), and Feinstein’s/54 Below’s 54 Pays Tribute to a Very Potter Musical (Dumbledore/Voldemort). He is co-writer/creator of the variety show Liz and Ryan: Need Help? which had its inaugural season at The Peoples Improv Theater in Manhattan. Ryan is a Metrolina Theatre Association Award Winner.

MFA: University of Virginia. @ryanstinnett.

Isabel Gonzalez (Dragon, Ensemble) is a graduate from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and is ecstatic to be back at Children’s Theatre Of Charlotte.

You may have seen her grace our stages in Dragons Love Tacos (Blue Dragon), Tropical Secrets: Holocaust Refugees In Cuba (Paloma), GRIMMZ Fairy Tales (Gretel/Cinderella), and The Invisible Boy (Sophie). You also may have seen her in local productions of Madagascar: A Musical Adventure at the Levine Jewish Community Center, Spoon River Anthology with The Charlotte Symphony, and Migrant X at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She would like to thank everybody for their constant support thus far! Her next adventure you ask?! Pigs Is Pigs here at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte!

Katy Shepherd (Gingy, Wicked Witch, Queen Lillian, Ensemble) is always honored to be on on stage at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, and it feels extra special this time around! After performing at various regional theatres, theme parks, and resorts in IN, IA, OH, MI, TX, GA, and WV, Katy and her husband moved to Charlotte and have loved making it their home. Favorite Children’s Theatre of Charlotte credits include Lilly in Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse, Cadpig in 101 Dalmatians, Connie in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical, Isabel in Scrooge, and Mullins in Peter Pan. Other favorite roles include Floyd Collins (Nellie Collins), Lizzie the Musical (Lizzie), Rock of Ages (Regina), The Rocky Horror Show (Riff Raff), Jesus Christ Superstar (Mary Magdalene), Stage Kiss (Angela), and Wind in the Willows (Toad). Katy is also a proud Teaching Artist for Children’s Theatre of Charlotte! Shrek’s message is one that is very important to her: “What makes us special makes us strong,” and she wouldn’t be able to live out these words on stage if it weren’t for the support of her husband and their wildly wonderful 3-year-old.

Griffin Digsby (Papa Ogre, Papa Bear, Ensemble) This is Griffin’s second show of the season and we’re so excited to have him back. He will play 15

Cast cont’d our Papa Ogre and our Papa Bear. Shrek was a meaningful part of Griffin’s childhood and he’s so pleased to be part of bringing one of his favorite books and movies to the CTC stage. He’s been performing for many years in his young career and he’s just getting started. The former Northwest School of the Arts alumnus has been cast in both Dragons Love Tacos and Shrek the Musical for our 2021-22 season. He also loves the kids and is excited to participate in “Meet and Greets” and Q&A’s. Hopefully, we will see him again in the future to bring you more of his energy on our stages.

Adrian Thornburg (Pinocchio, Ensemble) is so happy to be working with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte again. His previous roles include Brian in the world premiere production of The Invisible Boy, Stink in Judy Moody and Stink: The Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad Treasure Hunt, and Daniel in Tropical Secrets: Holocaust Refugees in Cuba. He also played Augustus Maywho in an interactive meetand-greet at the Tryon Resort Winterfest with Sigmon Theatrical, so let me know if you saw him there and if you voted for him!

Brandon J. Johns (Wolf, Thelonius, King Harold, Ensemble) is so overjoyed to be back on stage at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte! Brandon just completed his fourth consecutive 16

season at Winterfest at King’s Dominion in the show Jingle Jazz. He has previously appeared at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte as White Dragon in Dragons Love Tacos, and Noodler the pirate in Peter Pan. Originally from Virginia, Brandon is no stranger to children’s theatre. He has done several national tours with Virginia Repertory Theatre, performing in many shows including Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, I Have A Dream, and The Shoemaker and the Christmas Elves.

Some favorite roles include Tonton Julian in Once On This Island at Swift Creek Mill Theatre, Monsieur D’Arque in Beauty and the Beast at Virginia Repertory Theatre, and Jim in Big River at Fort Lee Playhouse. Brandon is also a musician, arranger, and composer. Some of his original music and arrangements have been featured at Firehouse Theatre and Cedar Fair’s theme park, King’s Dominion. Brandon sends endless thanks to his mother and brother for their constant support and love. For DLJ. Jennifer Poarch (Mama Bear, Mama Ogre, Three Blind Mice, Ensemble) is delighted to return to Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. Some favorite regional credits include: Natalie/ Ed (All Shook Up), Kala (Tarzan), Mary Poppins (Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins), Lilli/Kate (Kiss Me Kate), Narrator (Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat), Cassie (A Chorus Line), Guinevere (Camelot), Mrs. Anna (The King and I),

Cast cont’d Barbara (Shear Madness), Shelby (Steel Magnolias), and Julie (Pizza Man). When Jennifer is not performing, she enjoys directing, choreographing, educating and managing for theaters across the country.

Jennifer gives thanks to her family, friends and God for all their love and support.

Emma Metzger (Peter Pan, Three Blind Mice, Ensemble) is so excited to return to Children’s Theatre of Charlotte!

She received BFA training in Musical Theatre at Wright State University. As a Charlotte native, she is so excited to be back and performing at home. Recent credits include Red Dragon in Dragons Love Tacos at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, Apache Dancer in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at Central Piedmont Community College, Ancestor in the The Addams Family at Wright State University, Ensemble in Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, and Ensemble in Madagascar: A Musical Adventure at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. She would like to thank her family for their love and support, and God for all His blessings.

Luke McCammon (Young Shrek, Mad Hatter) is thrilled to return to Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. His previous roles include Teddy in The Best Christ-

mas Pageant Ever at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte and Michael Banks in Mary Poppins Jr. at Ballantyne Arts Center. He is currently a homeschooled 5th grader. Luke would like to thank his family, friends, and especially thank Danielle Burke, Sidney Horton, and Labrece Knox for their encouragement and support.

Isa Long (Pig #1, Ensemble) is thrilled to be back on the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte (CTC) Mainstage for her 7th professional production. Last seen as Georgia in CTC’s Akeelah and the Bee, Isa has also graced the stage as one of the Pounce in Peter Pan, as Ollie Herdman, Gladys Herdman, and Sunday School Ensemble in 3 different productions of The Best Christmas Pageant: The Musical, and started her work on stage at age 7 as a young ape in Tarzan. Isa has studied acting and musical theatre in Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s School of Theatre Training and Conservatory, and trains in ballet, jazz and tap at Open Door Studios. Currently a sophomore at Charlotte Christian School, Isa just performed this fall in their production of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical making that the 4th production of that show for her young career. She is also a member of the CCS award winning dance team. Go Knights!

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Cast cont’d Abby Johnson (Pig #2, Ensemble) is is absolutely thrilled to make her debut performance in a Children’s Theatre of Charlotte Mainstage production! She is a fifth-year student in Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s School of Theatre Training where she has participated in a number of previous OnStage performances including Honk, Jr. and Anything Goes. Some of Abby’s other recent roles include: Jafar in Aladdin, Jr., Ashton in Heubner the Reluctant, and Hannah in Newsies. She is currently homeschooled and is in 9th grade. Abby would like to thank her family for their love and support… and the many rides to and from rehearsals.

She also thanks her amazing voice teacher, Beau Stroupe, for his invaluable coaching and guidance, her Concord Academy Performing Arts Newsies family for their flexibility and encouragement, and the entire cast and creative team of Shrek for making this an extraordinary experience!

Anaiah Jones (Pig #3, Ensemble) has always loved being on stage whether it’s singing, dancing, or acting.

At the age of 6 she performed in her first musical, Disney’s The Aristocats Kids, with Front Porch Musical Theatre in Minneapolis, MN. After moving to Charlotte, Anaiah focused on dance, primarily ballet. She returned to theatre in 2020 and hasn’t looked 18

back. She recently appeared in Elf the musical and Beauty and the Beast with Porch Productions. Anaiah is excited for her debut with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte and the many opportunities to come! She sends a heartfelt thank you to her friends and family who continue to support her on this amazing journey.

Sophie Belle Henry (Teen Fiona, Sugar Plum Fairy) is jumping up and down excited about her Mainstage debut!

She is a freshman at HOPE Academy and a Conservatory student at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. Sophie began acting at age seven and her favorite roles include Cinderella in Into the Woods Jr., Kassim in Aladdin Jr., and Bella in the movie A Carolina Christmas. Sophie would like to thank all of the cast and crew for making Shrek a magical experience! She would also like to give a shoutout to her parents for always supporting her and chauffeuring her, her sisters for tolerating her tech-week behavior, her loyal and encouraging best friend Avery B., her voice teacher Sonya for never giving up on her, and Miss Hannah for introducing her to the world of musical theatre. Sophie hopes you enjoy the show! Isaiah 26:3.

Cast cont’d Jordyn Mae Friedman (Baby Bear, Ensemble) is thrilled to be making her debut on the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte stage.

Jordyn has appeared in productions with the Rock Hill Theatre, Showtime Theatre Company, Kids of Arts (KOTA) Productions, Pixie Dust Players and Drama Geek Studios. Her favorite credits include You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown (Snoopy), The Little Mermaid Jr (Sebastian), Into the Woods (Little Red), Frozen, Jr (Anna) and Annie (Kate). Jordyn was awarded the South Carolina Strawberry Festival Kids Idol 2021 and was nominated for Rock Hill Theatre’s Youth Excellence Award for 2020-2021. When Jordyn’s not singing or acting, you can find her volunteering at the Humane Society of York County. She sends a special thank you to Adam Burke, her voice teacher Danielle Smith, and her family and friends for their continued support.

Bailey Fischer (Young Fiona, Ensemble) is excited for her first professional show with the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. She is a 4th grader at Corvian Community School and has loved all things musical theatre for a very long time. Bailey has performed in summer productions of Little Mermaid, Jr. and Aladdin, Jr. with

Camp JuMP. She has also trained virtually with The Lexington Theatre Company located in Lexington, KY. Bailey started attending School of Theatre Training classes here at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte last Fall and looks forward to continuing that training. Bailey would like to thank this amazing cast and crew for making her first professional experience the best ever and her big brother, Eli, for showing her the world of musical theatre!

Will Higginbotham (Lead Guard, Puppeteer) Is over the moon to be back at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte for their production of Shrek the Musical! after two long years away. Will was also in Children’s Theatre’s production of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical (2017, 2018, and 2019) as Charlie Bradley, and a year later as Claude Herdman. Shows outside of Children’s Theatre include Pippin (2018) as Theo and Once Upon A Mattress (2019) in the Ensemble, both at the Jewish Community Center. Will is also in his third year of the Conservatory track with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s School of Theatre Traning, making a total of 10 years in the program. Will would like to thank all of his teachers for the training they have provided him, his family for giving him the time and patience to pursue the professional arts, and most of all the production team for giving him the opportunity to come back for his fourth Mainstage production!

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Cast cont’d CJ Higginbotham (Ugly Duckling) is ecstatic to be returning to the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte stage! Previous Maistage credits include The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical, as well as several OnStage experiences. She is a high school graduate, and will be a freshman at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte this fall. CJ thanks her family, and her mentors/peers at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte for their unwavering support and love throughout her journey as a performer and artist.

Karsen Betzold (Three Blind Mice, Blue Fairy) is overjoyed to be in her first production at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. She has appeared in numerous productions at Charlotte Christian School and Mint Hill Spotlight. She is a sophomore in high school and can’t wait to continue performing. Her love of musical theater began at age 6 when she participated in a theater camp.

She sends a special thanks to the cast, crew, and her family for all their support.

Andrew Ahdieh (Grumpy Dwarf, Elf) is thrilled to be returning to the Mainstage at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. His previous roles include Teddy in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical and Michael Darling in Peter Pan. Andrew has participated in School of Theatre Training at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte as well as OnStage (2021) where he played the role of Theodore in The Snow.

Andrew is an 8th grader at Trinity Episcopal School where he recently played the role of Narrator 2 in The Greek Mythology Olympiaganza. He will be attending Northwest School of the Arts next year. Andrew would like to thank his family for their support, as well as the cast and creative team who made this production possible.

Leighton Cooper (Guard, Puppeteer, Ensemble) is beyond thrilled to be making her Mainstage debut at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte.

A 7th grade homeschooler, she is a member of Musical Theater Company in Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s Conservatory Program and a ballet student at Open Door Studios. Leighton’s previous roles include Tinkerbell in Peter Pan Jr., & Jane in Mary Poppins Jr. at The Ballantyne Arts Center. She has appeared on stage at Matthews Playhouse and in the OnStage production of Where Words Once Were.

Leighton would like to give special thanks to: her Conservatory teachers, for helping her grow and come out of her shell in preparation for this moment; Ms

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Cast cont’d / Creative Team Jacque, for her patience & encouragement; Mahari Freeman & Sydney Horton for their guidance on this journey, and believing in her from the very start; and finally to the Shrek team and her fellow cast members for making this entire experience so amazing!

Hanna Atilano (Guard, Puppeteer, Ensemble) is thrilled to make her debut in one of Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s Mainstage productions.

She is currently a freshman at South Mecklenburg High School and has been a student in Creative Drama classes and School of Theatre Training classes at Children’s Theatre since she was 8 years old. She is currently in her third year of Conservatory and has previously performed in Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s OnStage shows, including The Snow, Red Red Shoes, The Trojan Women, and East of the Sun West of the Moon.

Hanna would like to thank everyone who has supported her throughout this journey. She sends special thanks to her mom and dad who have been driving her to and from the rehearsals and classes all these years.

Adam Burke (Director) is overjoyed to be in his seventh season as the Artistic Director at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, where he gets to come every day and do what he loves. Prior to this role, Adam was the artistic director of the Scioto Society, which produces the outdoor drama Tecumseh. Before that, Adam was the ar-

tistic director of the Chicago Theatre for Young Audiences, an artistic associate at Childsplay Theatre in Tempe, Arizona under the Theatre Communications Group’s New Generations fellowship program and the director of theatre programs at the Jewish Community Center in San Antonio, Texas. Adam earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts in acting/directing at the University of Arizona and his Master of Fine Arts in directing at Northwestern University. During his tenure in Chicago, Adam worked at the Goodman, Steppenwolf, Chicago Shakespeare and Northlight Theatres and as the resident director at Open Eye Productions.

Adam participated in the International Directing Symposium, hosted by LaMama Theatre, in Umbria, Italy; the National Advanced Stage Combat Workshop, hosted by the Society of American Fight Directors, ASSITEJ’s (International Association of Theatre for Children and Young People) One Theatre World and the ASSITEJ International Directing Symposium in Stuttgart, Germany. Adam is a past recipient of the ASSITEJ/USA Ann Shaw Fellowship and of the Chicago Drama League International Research Grant. While at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, Adam has directed Miracle on 34th Street, The Reluctant Dragon, Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat, The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, The Magic Kite, Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical and Ella’s Big Chance: A Jazz Age Cinderella.

Adam thanks the production team, who works brilliantly and tirelessly to bring these productions to life, and he sends much love to his amazing children and wonderful wife.

Ron Chisholm (Choreographer) has directed and/or choreographed over 350 shows around the coun21

Creative Team cont’d try. Shows at CTC include: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical (3 times), Scrooge (5 times), Aladdin, Good Night Moon, Beauty and The Beast, A Year With Frog and Toad (National Youth Theatre Award), Peter Pan, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins, Pete the Cat, and Pinkalicious among many others.

Ron has performed in every type of entertainment medium: Broadway, Radio City Music Hall, cruise ships, theme parks, music videos, TV, industrial shows and movies.

Broadway: assistant choreographer and performed in Into the Light with Dean Jones.

Tours: assistant choreographer and Young Vincent in Follies starring Juliet Prowse and John Cullum, High Button Shoes with Gavin MacLeod. TV Specials: with Carol Burnett, Dolly Parton, Shirley MacLaine, Ben Vereen and The Pointer Sisters.

Ron has directed, choreographed and/or produced shows for: CPCC Theatre , CP Summer Theatre, Charlotte Rep, Opera Carolina, Theatre Charlotte, North Carolina Shakespeare, Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma, Opera House Theatre Company, Spirit Square and other companies in the Region.

Ron is currently an adjunct faculty member in the Theatre/Dance Dept. at CPCC, and on the staff at Jami Masters School of Dance.

Charlene Miranda Thomas (Music Director) is blessed and honored to return to Children’s Theatre once again as Music Director for Shrek the Musical. Prior to this production, she has been the Music Director for The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical, Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds, Madagascar: A Musical Adventure, and The True Story of the Three Little Pigs. She 22

states, “It is such a thrill to be a part of this production. This is my third go round working on a production of Shrek the Musical. It is the music and comical, zany fairytale creatures that make it so much fun. I really love how it celebrates the power of uniqueness and the power of acceptance.” Charlene is an arts educator and advocate for arts education. She has worked with and continues to work with various organizations such as Children’s Theatre School of Theatre Training, Charlotte Christian School, and Mooresville Children’s Theatre, just to name a few. She also teaches private lessons in voice and piano. She is passionate about inspiring exceptionally talented young artists from all walks of life to develop their gifts and pursue careers as performers. Many of her former students have moved on to have successful careers in the arts. Charlene still continues to pursue her own endeavors as a songwriter, producer, and arranger. She is currently working on new music projects for her publishing company, Chala Bala Music. When Charlene is not teaching, writing, directing music, or leading worship you can find her playing the keys and singing some funky tunes with her band – MarvelUs. Charlene wants to thank all the cast members and production team for making her journey through the “swamp” a fun and memorable one.

Our hard work is definitely evident in this wonderful production. Bravo everyone!

Special thanks to her family for their love and support.

Alessia Carpoca (Scenic Designer) is the Head of the Theatre Design and Technology program at the University of Montana. Her designs for theater, dance, and

Creative Team cont’d opera have been seen around Europe, Canada and the U.S. Alessia designed over 20 productions for the Opera Program at the University of British Columbia, UBC. She is an active member of USITT in the Conference Committee and International Committee. For USITT, she was also the Assistant Project Coordinator for the 2011 USITT-USA Prague Quadrennial exhibit. Alessia research field lies in her passion for Scenic Painting and Japanese arts and culture. She spent her sabbatical in Kyoto researching Ukiyo-e representation of scenery in Kabuki and scenic painting techniques while partnering with the Art Research Center at Ritsumeikan University. Her latest publication from the Exchanges and Parallels between Italy and East Asia conference can be found on google books. Alessia holds an MFA from Northwestern University and a BFA from the Academy of Fine Arts of Rome, Italy. This is Alessia’s third production at the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. Some of her design work can be found at http://www.alessiacarpoca.net/ Mieka van der Ploeg (Costume Designer) Credits include designs with Goodman Theatre, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, Steppenwolf, Milwaukee Repertory Theater, American Players Theatre, Court Theater, Writers Theatre, Lyric Opera Unlimited, Lookingglass Theatre, Paramount Theatre, Marriott Theatre, Remy Bumppo, Second City, Redmoon, The Hypocrites, Chicago Children’s Theatre, About Face Theatre, Steep Theatre, Theater Wit, Albany Park Theater Project, Manual Cinema, and the Under the Radar Festival at The Public Theatre. She won a non-Equity Jeff award in 2020 for First Love is the Revolution, at Steep Theatre. She is proud to

be a member of USA829.

Aimee Hanyzewski (Lighting Designer) is glad to be back working with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte for her sixth year. She has designed such hits for the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte as Peter Pan, Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical, Grace for President, and Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins. Other theater’s Aimee has designed for are Milwaukee Repertory Theatre, In Tandem Theatre, Next Act Theater, Forward Theater, Merrimack Repertory Theatre, and Actors Theatre of Louisville.

Jason Romney (Sound Designer) is grateful for the opportunity to collaborate once again with the team at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. A few of his favorite projects at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte include Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical, Cat in the Hat, The Secret Garden, and The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical. He has also designed sound for productions at Triad Stage, Alliance Theatre, Piedmont Opera, Florida Studio Theatre, Imagination Stage, No Rules Theatre, Hot Summer Nights at the Kennedy, Playmakers Repertory, Weston Playhouse, Lyric Repertory Company, Ravinia Festival, Utah Festival Opera, Unicorn Pillow Theatre, Elon University, and others. He is a Professor of Sound Design at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts in Winston-Salem North Carolina. He is a proud member of the Theatrical Sound Designers and Composers Association, and serves as a Vice Commissioner for Sound Design and Technology at the United States Institute for Theatre Technology.

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Creative Team cont’d Thomas La (Projections Designer) is an Emmy-nominated creative professional with a background in media arts, animation, and video production. With 18 years of experience in the creative media industry, he has worked on projects with MTV, BET, Discovery Channel, The Great Courses, Sylvan Learning Center, Bank of America, and Brighthouse Financial. Thomas is very excited to lend his talents and creativity to the stage and Children’s Theatre of Charlotte.

Magda Guichard (Puppet Designer) has been working with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte for eight years, designing costumes for such shows as The Velveteen Rabbit, GRIMMZ Fairy Tales, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical, The Cat in the Hat, Madagascar: A Musical Adventure, Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical, The Ghost of Splinter Cove and Coraline as well as the designing and creating of Dragon in The Reluctant Dragon. Magda earned her Master of Fine Arts from Savannah College of Art and Design in production design with a costume design focus.

Magda is thrilled to call Children’s Theatre of Charlotte home and thanks her friends and, above all, her parents for their love and supporting her artistic journey.

Jill Bloede (Dialect Coach) believes the greatest sound is children laughing. Starting out as Artistic Associate with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte where she directed Mainstage, Touring, and OnStage productions and has been acting since the world was young. Jill is currently tenured at Belmont Abbey College, having last directed the lovely musical Little Women, 24

and teaches acting at UNC-Charlotte. Jill has coached dialect for Homeland, Outcast, Shots Fired, and many local theatre productions. She is delighted to work with the cast of Shrek the Musical, and cannot wait to hear the audience laughing.

THANK YOU TO OUR DONORS Because of your support our mission is realized on our stages, in our classrooms, and in our community.

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• Meet and greet with actors • Celebrate your child’s birthday with us • Get early access to classes and camps and much more!

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Happy Birthday

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Roan Snyder

Charles Frasier

Taylor Allison

Holland Frasier

Broden Budz

Jackson Niessner

Luke Choiniere

Sophia McGirt

William Choiniere

Charlotte Ross

Nova McBroom

Allston Seabrook

Frances Grace Mangan

Charlie Peterson

Mason Porter

Sophie Whelan

Ella Ross

Betsy Williams

Our Supporters PRESENTING SEASON SPONSOR Bank of America Foundation

LEADING ROLE PARTNER ($1,000 to $2,999)

EXECUTIVE PRODUCING PARTNERS ($50,000 and more)

Ally Financial, Inc. The Britton Foundation Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP First Horizon Bank Lancaster County Community Foundation Moore & Van Allen PLLC Morgan Stanley Wealth Management New Day Wellness Center PLLC True Homes Foundation

Arts & Science Council North Carolina Arts Council PNC Foundation The Leon Levine Foundation Sandra & Leon Levine The Shubert Foundation The Women’s Impact Fund Thrive Fund for the Arts The Infusion Fund PRODUCING PARTNERS ($25,000 to $49,999) National Endowment for the Arts Triad Foundation DIRECTING PARTNERS ($10,000 to $24,999) BlackArch Partners C.D. Spangler Foundation, Inc. Continental Tire the Americas, LLC. Daniel, Ratliff & Company SPX Corporation STANDING OVATION PARTNERS ($5,000 to $9,999) Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated Cornwell Foundation The Dickson Foundation, Inc. Edifice, Inc. K&L Gates LLP Publix Super Markets Charities

Throughout this playbill, * indicates donations to The Linda Reynolds Endowment Fund for Kindness and Wonder.

Additional supporters include: Anonymous (in honor of the Senior Leadership Team at Children’s Theatre), Taylor & Lauren Batten, Donna Bise, Nancy & Dr. Kern Carlton, Michele Carney, Ann Marie Forbes, Ann & Mark Kimbro, Sara Mayse, Beth & Lee Neale, Francisco & Margie Pinto-Leite, Reemprise Fund, Valerie & Jason Rhymer, Al & Susan Stafford, Donn & Dottie Toney.

CENTER STAGE PARTNERS ($3,000 to $4,999) The Daniel, Edward, Cora & Strickland Foundation Deloitte & Touche LLP

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Our Supporters cont’d INDIVIDUAL AND FAMILY DONORS

We recognize and thank our generous donors who gave July 1, 2020 to March 15, 2022.

Our annual donors are recognized at the most current giving level.

LEADING PLAYERS SOCIETY ($25,000 and more) Rob & Kate Buckfelder ($10,000 - $24,999) Dorlisa & Peter Flur* Arrington & Burch Mixon* Tammy Stringer & Richard Viola ($5,000 - $9,999) Omid & Julie Ahdieh Robin & Bill Branstrom* Dr. Daniel Donner Reemprise Fund* David Holland Travis & Lise Hain* Matthew & Ashley Joseph* Mitchell Kelling* Bruce & Anita LaRowe* Howard & Julie Levine Jennifer & Eric Madara Ann & Scott Manning Brian & Laura Murdock* Jennifer & Jack Ross The Sario Family Patrick & Elizabeth Vaughn ($3,000 - $4,999) Herb & Gina Clegg* Rob & Caryn Craige John & Nancy Dickson The Hensley Family* Ryan & Danielle Hutcheson* Pat Burgess & Joan Martin* Maddie & Brian Myers* Stacia and Charlie Neugent* Angela & Josh Scholl* Erik & Amelia Peterson Brad & Whitney Vineyard* Sandy & Greg Vlahos Nichelle & Sasha Weintraub* Judith & Matthew Whelan*

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April & Thomas Whitlock* ($1,000 - $2,999) Stephen & Carolyn Allred Mr. & Mrs. Richard R. Babcock Sally & Gary Beason* Kristin Black* Crandall Bowles* Mary Alice Boyd Andrea Brown* Tamara Budz Mike and Katie Burgess Danielle & Adam Burke Julie & Stoke Caldwell* Spencer Clair & Chris Loyd Veruska & Julio Colmenares Amy & Alfred Dawson Jessica & Craig DeLucia Sidney & Andres Echevarria Tom & Julie Eiselt* Christi & Will Farr Beth & Gaston Gage* Mr. & Mrs. Greg Gonzalez Magda Guichard Watts & Carol Hamrick Brad & Karen Harris David & Marti Head* Scott & Claire Helm Leigh Hickman Ben & Christy Hume Stephanie & Ryan Isham LaKeisha & William Jefferson Tammy & Greg Jones Shirley Lamm Cynthia & Dave Lank* Jeff & Deborah Long, In Honor of Miss Penelope Long Bruce & Michelle Long Allison Malloy Michele & Steve Mangan* Eileen Manlove, In Honor of Henry Edward Manlove, Sr. Michael & Leslie Marsicano Heather & Scott McAllister Valecia McDowell

Our Supporters cont’d

Salem & Sean McMullan David Miller, In Honor of Auctus Advisors Clients Ken & Lisa Miller Teri Miller Mallory Navin & Joe Shreve* Kerbie & Brandon Neal* Anna & Tom Nelson John & Suzy Nurkin John & Ann Porter* The Porter Family Linda Reynolds* Tim & Michelle Rogers* Krysta & Russ Cearley Janet & Joshua Smith Laurel & Christopher Socha Stephen & Stephanie Sorenson* Susan & Al Stafford* Scott & Robin Tynes-Miller Jennifer Plyler & Bert Wray ($500 - $999) Christina Baldauf Zack Budzichowski Elizabeth & Anthony Cassano Dallas & Kathy Craven Ina DeRochi Melissa Dorsch Kurtis Douge The Duda Family Patrick & Doreen English Patty & Alex Funderburg Vickie & Tom Gabbard* Mohan Giridharadas John & Mara Gose Sally & Drew Harriss John Curry Chad Kobos Louise & Jerry Lawson The Viola Alexander Lyles Foundation David & Laurie Martin* Seah & Robert McCammon Jenny & Bill Merlo* Rasheeda Moore Ruthann Granito Kirsten & Michael Phalen Margie & Francisco Pinto-Leite* Stephen Redmond Candace & Michael Salamone The Marc and Mattye Silverman Family Foundation*

Cindy & Rob Taylor* Amy Vitner Brian & Laura Walger* Katie and Jason Weeks Mem Zolak

SUPPORTING PLAYERS SOCIETY ($250 - $499) Mary-Stuart Parker Alderman Fund* Sylvia Allen Elizabeth & Benjamin Allison Emily & Lawrence Andress Anonymous Donor Linda & Jim Ashford+ Kimberly Augenbraun Anna & Matthew Brothers Laura & Doug Caldwell Dawn Connell Barry & Nancy Deel Susanne Doring Katharine Dullaghan Rachel & Rob Ellis* John Gibbon Courtney Guin Josh & Liana Humphrey Steve & Mary Hunting Mia, Drew, Mari & Andy Jones Katie and Drew Williams Laura Kendrick Kathi & John Knier, In Memory of Henry Caldwell Charles & Brenda LaBorde* Louis Leone Wil Brooks & Linda Lockman-Brooks* Franklin McClelland Andy & Shelley Misiaveg Brooks & Courtney Mixon Caroline Olzinski, In Honor of Grayson & Charlie Olzinski Jerry & Cookie Parnell Catherine Philpott Rich & Woods Potts Alicia Prescott, In Honor of Karen Steele The Qasim Family Andy & Emily Reynolds* Angela Shane Molly Shaw & David Webb Carol Smitherman Carrie & J.T. Teixeira Kathleen Valenti

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Our Supporters cont’d

Amy Vavra The Waller Family LeeAnne & Bill Whitley* Louise & Dick Woods* ($100 - $249)

Anonymous Natalie Alston Karen Aman, Dave, Matthew, & Joshua Edwards* Allyson & Scott Anderson Mike & Kellye Arning Mary & Clint Barlow David Barnaba Megan Bates Taylor & Lauren Batten* Dina Beelaert Ivy Birkhold Mr. & Mrs. Alan Blumenthal Mike & Jane Bufkin Lucy Bush Laura Cameron Matt Caragher Nancy & Kern Carlton* Amy Chandler Zoe Chandry Kakie & Colin Cheek Nancy Clair Kathleen Clark Mike & Katharine Cowan* Mary Ann Cross Shelley Davis Dennis Delamar* Bill & Janny DeLoache* Kendra Dodds Suzanne & Eddie Dornsmith Heather & Greg Feldman The Campos & Flansburg Family Elsie Flowers Anne Marie Forbes* Justin & Kate Garton Cynthia & Henry Gass Andrew Gibbon* Bill & Pam Giono* Mark Godfriaux Elizabeth Gregg Gary & Pushpa Gross Nachette Hadden Paul Happel Margaret & Gary Hemric

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Kara Hernandez Steve & Christie Hinshaw Martha Hirsch Olivia & Andrew Horton Mr. Frank Hruby & Mrs. Tatyana Rector Laura & Steven Hughes Stephanie Hurtado-Hoyos Don & Laurie Hutchins Lois Kilkka* Ann Kimbro & Mark Smith* Chris & Lynn Lakin* Tanisha LaShun Tony & Sarah Lathrop* Allyson Lavins Sandra & Leon Levine Steven Levine & Shawnna Pledger Jennie & Louis Loyd John & Robin Maxwell Mary Ellen & Chuck McElroy, In Honor of Mr. & Mrs. Ed Cook Joe & Laura McGirt Megan & Mike Meuse Linda Miller, In Memory of Sarah Peacock Renee Miller Nancy Morris Erin Nasmyth Martha Nichols Christine Noah* Tim & Kim Parati Anna Patel Jerry & Cookie Parnell, In Memory of Henry Caldwell Andrea Parrish, In Honor of Alice Svehaug Daniel Peterson Kirk & Stephanie Phipps* Emily Porges Mr. & Mrs. Jason Rhymer* Rebecca Rodriguez Stanley Ruppe Lauren & David Rivero Melissa Robertson Jennifer Schaperjohn John & Ginger Seabrook Whitney Seeburg Howard Sendrovitz & David Sinclair Julie Sheffer Lavanya Shivkumar Laura Shwedo Kirilka Simeonova John Slechta Robert Squibb

Our Supporters cont’d

Roger & Erin Stone Wendy Strickland Kristin Tart David Taylor Joe & Rosalind Taylor Laura Taylor Julia & Russell Weil Hank West April & Thomas Whitlock, In Honor of Steven Levine Marsha E. Wiggins Dr. Gabrielle Williams Alston O. Wolf ($50-$99) Aurora Achong Ana Acosta, In Honor of Diego & Dezi Huckleberry Alex Aguilar Michael & Catherine Aldridge Matthew Amrit Anonymous Donor Lizzy Bakhaus Cynthia Banks, In Honor of Victoria Bryant Kevin Bell, In Honor of Mallory Navin Sekiya Billman Donna Bise & Greg Ring* Lauren Briggs Susan Buckley Mary Budd Susan Butler-Staub Ms. Shirley Butterworth John & Tracy Chandler, In Loving Memory of Dorothy Hall Lucy Chapman, In Honor of Music Together of Charlotte Flannery Clair Kelly Clair Annie Clarke Holt Cleaver Roger & Ginny Cobb* Robin Cochran Arlie Crumbliss Toshana Daley Britanny Denton Blair Donald* Corey Easterday Cheryl Endy Jami Fischer Kate Fletcher Curt Flood & Kay James & Berri Flood Emily Forfar

Molly Fortner Abbie Frasier Stephanie George Bryan & Jamie Gerrard Ken Glessner Anna Glodowski, In Honor of Jane & Ed Glodowski Jordan Gougeon Natasha Grant-Dean Katie Griffin Ms. Mary Hackenberg Tim Hager* Charlitta Hatch Michael & Rachel Heath Browning Hemric Sarah Henderson Kristina & Thomas Hoops Jennifer Jones, In Honor of Mallory Navin Uma Kalani-Gosu Jinna Kim Emily Ladky Ava & Jake Leblanc Brian & Jenn Loeffler Bill Martin & Jennifer Davis-Martin Patricia Massey Hoke Svetlana Masjutina Sandy & Samantha Rose Mazoway Ariel & Brad Gritter Emily Mills Dawn Mitchell-Aiken Adam Montague Will Moody Michael Murphy Lee & Beth Neale* Tracie Northan Ashley & Daniel Norton Catherine & Rob Odum* Catherine Ogburn Matt Olin Kelly Parks Yogini Parmar Emily Pasour Lauren Piper Stephanie Poliakoff Elizabeth Ponder Foli Pontillo Kenney & Heather Potter Ellen Rankin Paul & Eleanor Reali Shannon & Rob Reichley Richard Ritter

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Our Supporters cont’d

Carrie Schwanter Brandon Scott Alba-Justina Secrist Aubree Slaven Matt & Sherese Smith Sarah Smulktis Kathy & Bill Southerland* Stephanie Taylor Lindsey Trueman Michael & Emily Trznadel

Judson Vann Sarah Verardo Cassie Ward Jayke Watson James Weng Judith & Matthew Whelan, In Honor of Peter Haensel David & Tracy Whittington Gloria Williams Abbie Wilson

Children’s Theatre of Charlotte receives support from the Infusion Fund, a partnership between the City of Charlotte, Foundation for The Carolinas and generous donors to support the arts and cultural sector. Contributors to the fund include: Multimillion Dollar Commitment City of Charlotte $1.5 million and above Bank of America C.D. Spangler Foundation / National Gypsum Company John S. and James L. Knight Foundation Trane Technologies $600,000 - $1 million Albemarle Foundation Atrium Health Barings Duke Energy Honeywell JELD-WEN, Inc. LendingTree Foundation Lowe’s Companies, Inc. Novant Health Red Ventures Truist $300,000-$600,000 Ally Financial The Centene Charitable Foundation Childress Klein Properties Coca-Cola Consolidated Deloitte

EY The Gambrell Foundation Moore & Van Allen PwC Robinson, Bradshaw & Hinson, P.A. Rodgers Builders Wells Fargo Up to $300,000

Fifth Third Bank Foundation For The Carolinas Deidre and Clay Grubb Leslie and Michael Marsicano Jane and Hugh McColl Nucor Corporation PNC Bank Premier, Inc. Jane and Nelson Schwab

ENCORE! Our Volunteer Community Be a part of the wonder. Volunteers help in many areas across the Theatre from Production to Education to Development to Outreach.

JOIN US

Caryn Craige President April Whitlock Marketing Chair Mitzi Lynch Production Committee Co-Chair Sandy Vlahos Production Committee Co-Chair Teri Miller Education Committee Co-Chair Melissa Dorsch Education Committee Co-Chair Tammy Jones Outreach Committee Co-Chair Kerbie Neal Outreach Committee Co-Chair Sallie Beason Fall Event Chair Laura Walger Celebrate! Chair Nichelle Weintraub The Winter Wonderland Shop Chair

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Charlotte Latin School is an independent, non-sectarian, coeducational, collegepreparatory day school for students in kindergarten through twelfth grade.

Lower School Theater Workshop performs excerpts from The Lion King, KIDS

9502 Providence Road, Charlotte, NC 28277 | CharlotteLatin.org | 704.846.7207

When I grow up I want to be...

Ready. For. Anything.

Ready to explore. Ready to create.

Ready for whatever life has in store for me. Country Day Ready.

Call or Come Visit: (704) 943-4530

charlottecountryday.org/Admissions

Bring this with you on your visit. We would love to see your masterpiece.

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Classes and Camps

AWARD-WINNING EDUCATION PROGRAMS Children’s Theatre of Charlotte offers a wide variety of classes and camps for your family. Through our education programs, your child will build confidence, develop speaking, leadership and problemsolving skills, appreciate collaborating as a team member and value the feeling of commitment and accomplishment.

Creative Drama (Ages 2 through 10) School of Theatre Training (3rd through 12th Grade) Summer Camps (Ages 3 to 12th Grade)

LEARN MORE

37

r o f s e i t A ctivi s Kid Shine bright, and “Let your freak flag fly!”

Get ready to raise ‘em high as we join Shrek and his lovable sidekick Donkey for a musical adventure. Journey beyond the swamp in this fun-filled story about acceptance and love. It’s a celebration that will have you singing along, “What makes us special makes us strong!”

Top 3

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE SHOW

1. Shrek asks us to look at beauty in a new way. What is beautiful to you? Can someone be beautiful on the outside and not beautiful on the inside? Can someone be beautiful on the inside which makes them more beautiful on the outside? How does who the person is change how you see their beauty?

2. The story of Shrek is told as a fairy tale and uses many familiar fairytales throughout. What different fairytales can you identify?

How did Shrek change the view of those familiar fairytales? What changed in each in this re-telling?

3. It was difficult in the story for Shrek to express his feelings to Fiona.

Why? Have you ever had a time where it was difficult for you to tell someone how you feel? Why do you think it was difficult for you?

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Reco m

me

d n

d a ing e R ed Shrek! by William Steig.

New York: Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 1990.

Shrek: The Essential Guide by Stephen Cole.

New York: DK Publications, 2004.

The Truth About Ogres by Eric Braun.

Mankato, MN: Picture Window Books, 2011.

What Makes You Cough, Sneeze, Burp, Hiccup, Blink, Yawn, Sweat, and Shiver?

by Jean Stangl. New York: Franklin Watts, 2000.

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• Appreciation of a child’s

individuality • Lively, joyful learning • Real world experiences • A legacy of consistent

educational excellence

980-355-0900 2830 Dorchester Pl, Charlotte, NC 28209