Community Theatre at the AUGUST 1 - 3 • 2025
PHOENIX PRODUCTIONS
Presents
LEGALLY BLONDE
Music and Lyrics by
LAURENCE O’KEEFE and NELL BENJAMIN
Book by HEATHER HACH
Based on the novel by Amanda Brown and the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer motion picture
Original Production by Hal Luftig, Fox Theatricals, Dori Berinstein, James L. Nederlander, Independent Presenters Network, Roy Furman, Amanda Lipitz, Broadway Asia, Barbara Whitman, FWPM Group, Hendel/Wiesenfeld, Goldberg/Binder, Stern/Meyer, Lane/Comley, Bartner-Jenkins/Nocciolino and Warren Trepp; Produced in association with MGM Onstage, Darcie Denkert and Dean Stolber.
Scenic Designer ANDREW ROBINSON
Costume Designer FRANKIE CONFALONE
Technical Director KYLE SANTOPADRE
Music Director FRANÇOIS SUHR
Choreographer
NATALIE HAYES-SCOTT
Lighting Designer ZACK BLISS
Properties MAGGIE SURGUY
Production Stage Manager FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ
Production Manager JAMES MARHOLD
Director JARROD SCOTT
LEGALLY BLONDE Is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com
Season Sponsors: Circle Subaru
Courtyard by Marriott - Red Bank/Lincroft The Law Firm of Jonathan D’Agostino & Associates
Show Sponsor: Declarations, Inc.
A MESSAGE FROM THE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Musical theatre has a long history of creating strong female characters. This season is packed with amazing roles showing women are strong, vibrant, capable, and even legendary. Golde in Fiddler on the Roof is as stalwart as any good wife and mother should be in 1904 Ukraine. Doris Walker is a single mother in New York City just after World War II raising a daughter while furthering her career at Macy’s in Miracle on 34th Street. And we all know Ariel and her love of all things land based. Finally there’s Carole King, who went from one half of a songwriting team to a stand alone superstar making music on her own terms. However, there’s no one like Elle Woods. From UCLA sorority maven working on her MRS degree - to legal eagle finding her true inner power without compromise. She is what the kids would call “girl boss.” And we’re here for it. Phoenix has always been a firm believer that allowing young girls to see strong, independent, intelligent women on-stage and screen helps to remind them they don’t need a prince to come rescue them - they can do their own rescuing. And the best lesson Legally Blonde teaches? You can shake up the patriarchy without compromising your personal style.
Enjoy the show.
James Managing Artistic Director
Phoenix Productions at the Count Basie Center for the Arts
THE CAST
Elle Woods RILEY MARTIN
Warner Huntington III CRISTIAN RODRIGUEZ
Vivienne Kensington ............................................................................... BRITTANY DiNARDO
Emmett Forrest.................................................................................................. JOEY MAHER
Professor Callahan ...................................................................................... JAMES MARHOLD
Paulette RACHEL SIEVERS
Margot ................................................................................................. NORA JULIA COLLARD
Serena ..................................................................................................... GABRIELLA STEWART
Pilar ..................................................................................................................... ESTHER FOSU
Enid Hoopes SABRINA CLAIRE MATARAZZO
Brooke Wyndham LINDSAY PAIGE SPITZER
ENSEMBLE
Greek Chorus / Inmate ..................................................................................... MIA AVENOSO
Lowell ...................................................................................................................... JAKE CHIN
Pforzheimer / Kiki / Carlos ................................................................................. JAVIER COSS
Sundeep Agrawal Padamadan GABRIEL DELIMA
Kate / Greek Chorus / Inmate MARISSA DeVEAU
Leilani / Greek Chorus ................................................................. AVA ROSE DRESSENDOFER
Greek Chorus / Judge / Inmate ................................................................. JANNETTE FISHER
Cashier / Inmate................................................................................... CARMEN GEMELLARO
Kyle / Guard DANNY GULICS
Courtney / Chutney Wyndham ......................................................................... SYDNEY KATZ
Inmate / H & H Salesperson / TV Reporter ....................................................... SAMI KHATRI
Elle’s Mom / JetBlue Pilot / Salon Client .................................................. DANA JILL MALEY
Elle’s Dad / Dean Winthrop JIM MORRIS
Inmate / Perfume Girl KYLIE MULVIHILL
Aaron Schultz .........................................................................................ANTHONY NARDULLI
Store Manager / D.A. Joyce Riley ................................................ CARLY JEANNETTE RUBIN
Gaelen / Greek Chorus / Inmate ...................................................FRANCHESCA SAMBUCCI
Grandmaster Chad / Guard / Nikos Argitakos ARIEL SANCHEZ-BELLO
Whitney / Inmate ..................................................................................... KENDALL THORNER
Dewey / Court Stenographer / Violinist ........................................... GABRIEL ANGEL VALLE
Marching Band ................................................JEFFERSON ESPANA, ZARA GORELCZENKO, JASON KATZ, OSCAR LEMUZ-GARRIDO, AYDEN ROMAN-GIL
Bruiser Woods................................................................................................................. PYPER
Rufus MILES DAVIS-SCOTT
UNDERSTUDIES
For Elle Woods: KENDALL THORNER; for Warner Huntington III: DANNY GULICS; for Emmett Forrest: ARIEL SANCHEZ-BELLO; for Professor Callahan: JIM MORRIS; for Paulette: CARLY JEANNETTE RUBIN; for Enid Hoopes: MARISSA DeVEAU; for Brooke Wyndham: MIA AVENOSO; for Vivienne Kensington: AVA ROSE DRESSENDOFER; for Bruiser Woods: TIA.
DANCE CAPTAINS
MIA AVENOSO, GABRIELLA STEWART
THE PRODUCTION TEAM
Production Manager ................................................................................... JAMES MARHOLD
Director............................................................................................................ JARROD SCOTT
Choreographer.................................................................................... NATALIE HAYES-SCOTT
Music Director ............................................................................................... FRANÇOIS SUHR
Production Stage Manager ........................................................... FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ
Technical Director / Lead Carpenter ....................................................... KYLE SANTOPADRE
Scenic Designer...................................................................................... ANDREW ROBINSON
Lighting Designer ZACK BLISS
Costume Designer FRANKIE CONFALONE
Wig Designer JANNETTE FISHER
Properties MAGGIE SURGUY
Sound Designers DENNIS TOLENTINO, ACIR
Scenic Charge ................................................................................................ ASHLEY CUSACK
Assistant Stage Managers .... EMILY COCCOVIZZO, MANNY JEAN-PIERRE, NAIRE OHANIAN
Assistant Costume Designer........................................................................ EMMA FREEMAN
Scenic Crew ................................... JESSICA COGAN, KIMBERLY GELFAND, DONNA HUNT, PAT KAY, LISA SIKO
Stage Crew DANA DiANGELO, ZARA GORELCZENKO, PHILIP HICKEY, JASON KATZ, AMANDA MUNICE, PETRA ROFMAN, KEIRA SULLIVAN
Legal Consultant KIMBERLY GELFAND
Managing Artistic Director ........................................................................ JAMES GRAUSAM
Special Thanks ........COUNT BASIE CENTER MARKETING DEPARTMENT, DIANE DiYANNI, MICHAEL IPPOLITO and the MARLBORO HS MUSIC DEPT, JOHN POSADA, HAHN FILMS
THE
ORCHESTRA
Conductor FRANÇOIS SUHR
Keyboard 2.......................................................................................................... PAUL BEZNER
Keyboard 3............................................................................................................ KARA LEIGH
Guitar MEGAN DOYLE
Bass ...................................................................................................ANDREW ROSCISZEWSKI
Drums ................................................................................................................ AARON ALLEN
Percussion SAM FERRANTE
Reed 1....................................................................................................... JEAN ANNE GOULD
Reed 2............................................................................................................... ASHLEN UDELL
Trombone ................................................................................................. FRANCIS SCARANO
Trumpet 1 SEAN HACK
Trumpet 2 ........................................................................................................ LAURA NEVILLE
Violin .......................................................................................................... AMANDA GORFAIN
WARNING: THIS PERFORMANCE UTILIZES STROBE LIGHTING AND THEATRICAL HAZE.
The use of any recording device, either audio or video, and the taking of photographs, either with or without flash, is prohibited. Please turn off all electronic devices such as cellular phones, tablets, beepers, and watches. The use of cell phones in the theater is prohibited.
ABOVE GROUND
TUBS
SEMI IN-GROUND AND IN-GROUND POOLS
PHOENIX PRODUCTIONS OPERATIONS COMMITTEE
SoVonna Day-Goins (Co-Chair)
Sarah Bradley
Jerry Conaty
Natalie Hayes-Scott
Tom Hessman
Nancy Karpf
Joe Wajda (Co-Chair)
Fran Centofante Katz
Maria Maher
James Marhold
Adam Philipson
Izzy Sackowitz
Jarrod Scott
Dennis Tolentino
Fran Turner
Jon Vena
Anthony Viera
Darrell L. Willis
Count Basie Center for the Arts, a not for profit organization
Count Basie Center Executive Committee of the Board
Jeremy Grunin Chairperson
Jerry Conaty Treasurer
Robin Klein Governance Officer
Stuart Alderoty
Mitch Ansell
Alison Banks-Moore
Tom Bernard
Sarah Bradley
Michael Bruno
Heather Burke
Craig Cummings
Stephen Cutler
Maria Maher Co-Vice Chairperson
SoVonna Day-Goins Co-Secretary
Claudia Dulac Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer
Maggie Riker Co-Vice Chairperson
Delisha Grant Co-Secretary
Adam Philipson President & Chief Executive Officer, Ex Officio
Count Basie Center Board of Trustees
Lauren Goldfarb Carlina Jessen
Jason Jurgens
Steve Kaiman
Nancy Karpf
Marshall Knopf
Kathryn Lissy
Mario Monello
Michael Parent
Cathy Pugliese-Sivo
Mark Rohl
Peter T. Roselle
Matthew J. Saker
Dr. Perry Scaranni
Carol Stillwell
Fran Turner
Joe Wajda
Tom Widener
Darrell Lawrence Willis
Kaye Wise
Edward J. Zipprich
SCENES AND MUSICAL NUMBERS
ACT 1
SCENE 1: UCLA Delta Nu Sorority House / Mall
“Omigod You Guys” Margot, Serena, Pilar, Delta Nu’s, Elle, Courtney, Store Manager
SCENE 2: Restaurant
“Serious” Warner, Elle
SCENE 3: Delta Nu Sorority House
“Daughter of Delta Nu” Margot, Pilar, Serena, Delta Nu’s
SCENE 4: Delta Nu Sorority House / Golf Course / Harvard Law School Admissions Office
“What You Want” ................. Elle, Margot, Serena, Pilar, Kate, Elle’s Mom, Elle’s Dad, Grandmaster Chad, Winthrop, Pforzheimer, Lowell, JetBlue Pilot, Delta Nu’s, and Company
SCENE 5: Harvard Yard / Callahan’s Classroom
“The Harvard Variations” Emmett, Aaron, Enid, Padamadan, Harvard Students
“Blood In The Water” Callahan, Harvard Students
SCENE 6: Harvard Yard
“Positive” ...................................................... Elle, Margot, Serena, Pilar, Greek Chorus
SCENE 7: The Hair Affair
“Ireland” ..................................................................................... Paulette and Company
“Ireland” (Reprise) ............................................................................................. Paulette
SCENE 8: A Harvard Party / Harvard Yard / Elle’s Room / Callahan’s Classroom
“Serious” (Reprise) ...................................................................................... Elle, Warner
“Chip On My Shoulder” ................ Emmett, Elle, Margot, Serena, Pilar, Greek Chorus
SCENE 9: Dewey’s Trailer / Harvard University
“So Much Better” .................. Elle, Emmett, Warner, Harvard Students, Greek Chorus
LEGALLY BLONDE WILL BE PERFORMED WITH ONE 15-MINUTE INTERMISSION.
ACT 2
SCENE 1: Conference Room of Stidwell, Zyskowski, Fox & Callahan / Women’s Prison
“Whipped Into Shape” ......................................................... Brooke, Inmates, Callahan
SCENE 2: Hansen-Harkness Department Store
“Take It Like A Man” ........................ Elle, Emmett, H & H Salespeople, and Company
SCENE 3: The Hair Affair
“Bend and Snap” .................................................. Elle, Paulette, Serena, Margot, Pilar, Salon Client, Cashier, Kiki, Salon Folk
SCENE 4: Courtroom
“Gay or European?” .......................... Elle, Callahan, Emmett, Vivienne, Warner, Enid, Brooke, Judge, Nikos, Carlos, and Company
SCENE 5: Callahan’s Office / Elle’s Door
“Legally Blonde” .........................................................................................Elle, Emmett
SCENE 6: The Hair Affair
“Legally Blonde Remix” .......................................... Vivienne, Enid, Elle, and Company
SCENE 7: Courtroom / Bathroom of the Wyndham Mansion
“Scene of the Crime” ........................................................................ Elle and Company
“Find My Way” .................................................................................. Elle and Company
SCENE 8: Harvard Law Graduation
“Finale”.............................................................................. Elle, Paulette, and Company
2025/2026 SEASON SPONSORS
Circle Subaru - Joe & Nicole Wajda Courtyard by Marriott - Red Bank/Lincroft
The Law Firm of Jonathan D’Agostino & Associates - Jon & Jade D’Agostino
LEGALLY BLONDE SHOW SPONSOR
Declarations, Inc.
PHOENIX PRODUCTIONS
2025/2026 SEASON DONORS
RISING STAR LEVEL: $500-$999
Chris Adamo, Joseph Ercolino, John Jackson, Stephanie Malewski, Diane Tresente
FAN LEVEL: Up to $249
Dianne C. Asay, In memory of Al Bevacqua, Barbara Saake, Jayne Cybulski, Elizabeth Dean, Judith & William Fraser, Kenneth Groeschel, Gloria Gross, Debra Marsh, Anthony Petrizzo, Carol Petscavage, Donna Pinamonti, Albert Reher
STARS ON PHOENIX’S “WALK OF DREAMS”
Todd Aikens, Andrea Andrews Zawadzky, Matthew Blankley, Grace Brancato, Brothers Commercial Brokerage, The Brown Family, Chloe Carone, Erin O’Malley Chiaravalloti, Sarah Coleman, Liz & Randy Cooper, Sophie Creed, The Cullen Family, The D’Agostino Family, Mike & Betty Ann Dalberg, Bobby Davis, Lily DelPresto, In Memory of Mildred & Patrick DeLuca, Tina & Mike DeVito, Denise DiBona DDS, The Dobbs Family, Hudson Eder & Jo Wymer Music Studios, Joe Ercolino & Melvin Polisher, FILCO Red Bank, Immediate Care Medical Walk-In & CEO Sal Cannizzaro, In Memory of Jakob Franke, Bob Fuller, Carmen Gemellaro, Kayla Goins, Jennifer Grasso, James Grausam, Anthony Greco, Keegan Robert Haack, Holly Hankins & Family, Don & Lois Heirman, Thomas K. Hessman, Taylor Nicole Kaplan, Nancy Karpf, Fran Centofante Katz, ydney & Jason Katz, Zoe & Molly Kenney, George & Kelly Kerrick, The Kinneman Family, The LaRue Family, James, Kathleen & Patrick Marhold, The Martini Family, In Loving Memory of Pat Mercandetti, The Monteleone Family, Jillian Mueller, Scott Naef, The Nodes Family, Don Olah Hair/Wigs, Alexa Origlio, Christine Paccillo, Wayne, Daniel & Marisa Peck, The Pennington Family, Joanne Penrose, Red Oak Mortgage, The Regan Family, Remember Jones, Lily Grace Riddle, Kara Robertelli, Harper Robinson, The Robinson Family, The Scherzo Family, Haley & Chris Schmalbach, Thomas Scove, The Sheftel Family, Carl Sterling Smith, Jack & Joyce Sica, The Stefanelli Family, The Thorner Family, Mary Jo Tort-Bergeron, Carol Wade, The Wagar Family, Ellen & Michael Walsh, Amanda Winter, Lindsay Wood, Chip & Ilda Wood, World Subaru
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
MIA AVENOSO
(Greek Chorus / Inmate / u/s Brooke / Dance Captain)
is very excited to be a part of Legally Blonde at Phoenix with an amazing cast and crew. She has had the honor of being a part of another Phoenix show with West Side Story (Graziella). She has also been a part of 2 workshops for brand new musicals: Based on the show Say Yes to the Dress, Yes! The Musical (Kayley) and the musical adaptation of the book/movie Picnic at Hanging Rock (Miranda). OMG y’all enjoy the show! Insta:@moodswithmia
JAKE CHIN
(Lowell)
is a rising senior at Manalapan High School and is extremely excited to be a part of his 1st Phoenix production. Jake has been a part of his school’s drama club since his freshman year, taking part in both backstage and onstage roles; however, this is his 1st community theatre show ever. He would like to thank the cast and crew for all the hard work that has gone into making this amazing show come to life and his parents for driving him almost thirty minutes away for every rehearsal.
NORA JULIA COLLARD
(Margot)
is thrilled to return to the Phoenix stage in Legally Blonde! She is a recent graduate of Interlochen Arts Academy, where she performed in Ride the Cyclone (Jane Doe) and Cats (Electra). This fall, she will attend Emerson College to pursue her BFA in Musical Theatre. Nora sends heartfelt thanks to her family, cast, crew, and creative team. She hopes you enjoy the show!
JAVIER COSS
(Pforzheimer / Kiki / Carlos)
is excited to be part of this incredible production! Past credits include: Kinky Boots (Pat(rick), Ensemble), Footloose (Jeter), Joseph… (Judah), West Side Story (Shark Ensemble). He loves the magic of storytelling through performance and feels grateful to share this experience with such a star studded cast and crew. A huge thank you to friends and family for their constant support! Oh and by the way, “HE’S GAY!” @javi_coss_
GABRIEL DELIMA
(Sundeep Agrawal Padamadan)
is so excited to make his Phoenix Productions debut! His 1st and only prior performance was in In the Heights (Usnavi, Long Branch HS), a role that earned him the Count Basie Award for Outstanding Lead Performance in a Male-Identified Role. He is incredibly grateful to the production team for the opportunity to continue discovering himself through his newfound passion and to the cast and crew for the amazing time they’ve shared together!
MARISSA DeVEAU
(Kate / Greek Chorus / Inmate / u/s Enid) is excited to be back onstage at the Basie with Phoenix Productions. Onstage: West Side Story (Anybodys), Mary Poppins (Mary Poppins), Children of Eden (Yonah), Titanic (Kate Mullins), concerts with The Philadelphia Orchestra and NY Philharmonic. Music Direction: Tuck Everlasting, Mary Poppins, Elf The Musical, The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Choreography: Elf The Musical, Mary Poppins. Stage Management: Kinky Boots, Mary Poppins. Marissa holds a B.M. in Music Education from Westminster Choir College and works as a teaching artist throughout NYC and NJ. Thank you for supporting the arts! 143, Jess
BRITTANY DiNARDO
(Vivienne Kensington) is thrilled to be returning to the beautiful Basie in her 5th show with Phoenix! Previous credits include: Guys and Dolls, HAIR, The Wedding Singer (Holly), Songs for a New World. Brittany sends much love to her family and friends for their continued support. Much love also to the amazing production team and cast of Legally Blonde! ‘OMIGOD YOU GUYS’! Enjoy the show!
AVA ROSE DRESSENDOFER
(Leilani / Greek Chorus / u/s Vivienne) is beyond excited to make her Phoenix Productions debut! She recently graduated from Montclair State University and will begin law school at Villanova Law this fall. Ava has performed at Carnegie Hall and the Dicapo Opera Theatre in NYC through the Hal Leonard Vocal Competition. She trained with the Paper Mill Playhouse Junior Conservatory and as a competitive dancer at Dancers Pointe. She most recently appeared in Grease (Sandy, Madison Public Theatre) and will be featured in the upcoming Amazon Prime film President Zombie. Ava is so grateful to be part of this empowering, high-energy production!
JANNETTE
FISHER
(Greek Chorus / Judge / Inmate / Wig Designer) is thrilled to be in Phoenix’s production of Legally Blonde. This will be her 4th production with the company. Jannette is so excited to continue to create a future with Phoenix! Recent credits include: HAIR (Dionne), Head Over Heels (Mopsa), RENT (MiMi). As a recent client with Kreative Agency, she hopes to explore and expand on her skill set and opportunities. Thank you to the cast and crew for sharing your grace, love, and talent.
ESTHER FOSU
(Pilar)
Praise God! Delighted to be returning to Phoenix Productions as a Delta Nu. Lifelong student of the arts who, off stage, loves to travel and write. She’d like to thank God, the creative team for trusting her to help tell this incredible story, and her friends and family for the endless support. Recent credits include: Three Sisters (Irina, Columbia University), The Color Purple (u/s Nettie, Phoenix Productions). Jeremiah 17:7. @estherfosu_
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
CARMEN GEMELLARO
(Cashier / Inmate) is thrilled to be back performing with Phoenix Productions! She is currently pursuing a BFA in Dance and a BS in Business Marketing at Marymount Manhattan College. Recent performance highlights include the Martha Graham University Showcase (Joyce Theater NYC), Love in the Key of 80s Rock (54 Below), and serving as dance captain and ensemble member in Andrew Winans’ One Short Day (Steps on Broadway). Carmen extends sincere thanks to the Legally Blonde cast, crew, and creative team for their passion and support, and to her family, friends, and Nick for their continued encouragement throughout this experience.
DANNY GULICS
(Kyle / Guard / u/s Warner) is very excited to be making his return to the Count Basie stage! He would like to thank the production team, his castmates, friends, family, and lovely girlfriend Genesis for supporting him every step of the way. If you like what you see, make sure you check out his movie debut in We Can’t Leave, a horror movie by 1739 Films, later this summer!
SYDNEY KATZ
(Coutney / Chutney Wyndham) is a Biochemistry and Molecular Biology student at Boston University and is so excited to be in her 9th Phoenix production! Recent credits include: Chicago (Roxie Hart, Marlboro HS), Hello, Dolly! (Minnie Fay, Algonquin Arts), A Chorus Line (Connie MacKenzie, Spring Lake Theatre). She’d like to thank the cast and crew for such an amazing summer and the production team for not forcing her to get a TTP (total tragic perm)!
SAMI KHATRI
(Inmate / H & H Salesperson / TV Reporter) is a junior musical theatre major at Monmouth University and is so excited to be in her 2nd show at Phoenix! Some of her past shows include: A Christmas Carol (Ensemble, Phoenix Productions), The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Marcy Park, Monmouth University), Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (Ensemble, Spring Lake Theatre). She would like to thank the cast and crew for an amazing summer!
JOEY MAHER (Emmett Forrest) is overjoyed to return to Phoenix. For the past 4 years, he has assisted RBC Performing Arts with productions such as A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Anything Goes, The Addams Family (Basie Award - Best Musical), and most recently, Into the Woods. Joey has been doing theatre from a young age, performing in The Radio City Christmas Spectacular (Ben), and has his B.F.A. in Musical Theatre from Rider University. Recent credits include: Kinky Boots (Charlie), West Side Story (Riff), and Spring Awakening (Melchior) with Phoenix; Footloose (Ren; Algonquin Arts Theatre), A Chorus Line (Mike; Plays in the Park). @joey_maher
DANA JILL MALEY (Elle’s Mom / JetBlue Pilot / Salon Client) is thrilled to be back at the Count Basie Center for the Arts in her 4th Phoenix production! Past credits include: The Addams Family (Ancestor–Flight Attendant), The Prom (Olivia Keating / Ensemble), and Mary Poppins (Katie Nanna / Miss Smythe). I feel incredibly grateful to be part of the Phoenix family—it’s truly a special community of talented and caring artists. Heartfelt thanks to the incredible director, artistic team, cast, and crew! And, endless love to my friends and family—your support means everything!! Enjoy the show!
JAMES MARHOLD (Professor Callahan)
has been a performer and Production Manager at Phoenix for over 35 years! Past credits include: Ragtime (Father), 1776 (Adams), Camelot (King Arthur), Elf The Musical (Santa), Newsies (Roosevelt), Mamma Mia! (Bill). Thanks to Kathy and Patrick for their love and support!
RILEY MARTIN
(Elle Woods)
is beyond excited to step into the heels of her dream role in Legally Blonde! Bringing this vibrant and empowering story to life with such a dedicated team has been an unforgettable journey. Favorite credits include: Grease (Sandy, Axelrod Performing Arts Center), Spring Awakening (Anna, Phoenix Productions). Riley earned her BA in Theatre from Rider University and directs at Freehold Township High School, where she was honored with a Basie Award nomination for Best Director. She’s deeply grateful to the Phoenix creative team, her amazing arts educators, supportive friends, and loving family for their unwavering belief in her.
SABRINA CLAIRE MATARAZZO
(Enid Hoopes)
is thrilled to be performing in her 1st Phoenix production! In her spare time, you’ll find her writing her own music or prepping for Halloween. Favorite credits include: Heathers (Veronica, Cumberland Players), Godspell (Celisse, Villagers Theatre). She’d like to extend a huge thank you to the team for entrusting her with Enid. She’d also like to thank her family, especially her brother, Carmen, for their support during this show. Break legs cast & crew!
JIM MORRIS
(Elle’s Dad / Dean Winthrop / u/s Callahan)
is very excited to be performing with Phoenix Productions again after appearing in Kinky Boots (Mr. Price) in May and West Side Story (Doc) last July. Recent credits include: Deathtrap (Sidney; Town and Country Players), Guys and Dolls (Sky Masterson; Town and Country Players), Bright Star (Daddy Kane; MPOnstage), and Something Rotten! (Brother Jeremiah; MPOnstage). His performance is dedicated to the memory of his friend, Ken Page.
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
KYLIE MULVIHILL
(Inmate / Perfume Girl)
is beyond psyched to return to the stage with Phoenix after performing in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Seussical and the 30th Anniversary Gala! Favorite credits include: 13: The Musical (Patrice), The Great Gatsby (Daisy), Rumors (Claire), Legally Blonde (Serena), Disney’s Frozen Jr. (Elsa), and Fiddler on the Roof (Hodel). As a sorority girl herself, sisterhood and the many other themes of Legally Blonde are near and dear to her heart. Snaps to her family and the unstoppable team of Legally Blonde for all their support and kindness! She hopes you enjoy the show!
ANTHONY NARDULLI
(Aaron Schultz)
is a rising junior at Marymount Manhattan College (Double major: BFA in Musical Theatre, BA in International Studies). Past credits include: West Side Story (A-Rab, Phoenix Productions), Little Women (Onstage Swing, MMC). Cheers to a fab Jersey shore summer back at my second home with an amazing cast. Be fierce and break legs!
CRISTIAN RODRIGUEZ
(Warner Huntington III) is thrilled to be joining Phoenix Productions again for another production! Past credits with Phoenix Productions include: Green Day’s American Idiot (Favorite Son) and RENT (Roger Davis). He is a graduate of Villanova University, where he was a part of Villanova Student Musical Theatre’s productions of Carousel (Billy Bigelow), Legally Blonde, and If/Then (Stephen). Additional credits include: Urinetown (Bobby Strong), The Last Five Years (Jamie Wellerstein). As always, he is grateful to his family for their unwavering support throughout his theatre journey. (He/Him)
CARLY JEANNETTE RUBIN
(Store Manager / D.A. Joyce Riley / u/s Paulette) from Gainesville, FL, Carly has considered NY home for the past 6 years. NYU Steinhardt’s Vocal Performance Musical Theatre Program (Masters of Music and Advanced Certificate in Vocal Pedagogy) and Adjunct Faculty teaching private voice lessons. Carly moved to NY to pursue a BFA from NYU Tisch’s Atlantic Acting Studio and found herself double majoring in Educational Theatre. She is ecstatic to be making her Phoenix debut and wants to thank her friends, family, and boyfriend Mitchell for all their love and support. Find her on IG if you’re looking for a fun voice teacher! @carlyrubin / carlyrubin.com
FRANCHESCA SAMBUCCI
(Gaelen / Greek Chorus / Inmate) is very excited to be performing with Phoenix Productions again. She last worked with Phoenix in In the Heights (Ensemble, u/s Nina, Dance Captain). She is currently majoring in Theatre Performance at Wagner College. Past credits include: Feminine Ending (Female Swing, CSP), Fun Home (Joan), To Be Seen (Ensemble, SRMT), Romeo and Juliet (Lady Capulet, MCVTS), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Quince, MCVTS). Franchesca would like to thank her cast and creative team for this incredible experience, as well as her friends and family for all their support. @frankie_luna29
ARIEL
SANCHEZ-BELLO
(Grandmaster Chad / Guard / Nikos Argitakos / u/s Emmett) is delighted to be participating in this production of Legally Blonde, portraying a diverse range of his own identity, including being blonde on the inside. His previous credits include: West Side Story (Pepe), RENT (Gordon, u/s Mark), and Peter and the Starcatcher (Robert Falcon Scott). Ariel expresses his gratitude to his brothers and father for being his unwavering supporters and biggest haters. His hips don’t lie, and he will be dancing the night away right to his bed. Enjoy the show!
LINDSAY PAIGE SPITZER
(Brooke Wyndham) is thrilled to be getting “whipped into shape” as Brooke Wyndham in Legally Blonde! She is a graduate of Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University. Off-stage, Lindsay is a PK-2 general music teacher, princess performer, and vocal coach! Past credits include: Footloose (Rusty, Algonquin Arts Theatre), Fiddler on the Roof (Hodel, AAT), Disney’s The Little Mermaid (Ariel, Bellarine Theatre), Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Cynthia Weil, Kelsey Theatre), The Last Five Years (Cathy, Ferrell Studios), and Little Shop of Horrors (Audrey, Cabaret Theatre). Much love to her friends and family! IG: @lili_paigeee
GABRIELLA STEWART
(Serena / Dance Captain) is thrilled to be a part of this amazing production! After making her Phoenix debut in West Side Story last summer, she’s excited to take the Basie stage again. Past credits include: Chicago (Roxie), Sophisticated Ladies (Leading Player/Terri), and Once on This Island (Ti Moune). A rising sophomore at Howard University for a Musical Theatre BFA, Gabby is constantly inspired by the amazing people she gets to work with. She’s grateful for her talented castmates for endless support and laughs, and her family for always believing in her! omigod. @gabceli
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
RACHEL SIEVERS
(Paulette)
is tickled pink to be on the Basie stage in this joyous show, having made her Phoenix debut last year as Daisy in Bat Boy: The Musical. Favorite credits include: Shrek the Musical (Princess Fiona, MAC Players), Blood Brothers (Mrs. Lyons, Ghostlight Players), All Shook Up (Miss Sandra, Brookdale PAC) Fiddler on the Roof (Shaindel, Algonquin Arts Theatre). A huge thank you to Jarrod, François, Natalie, Fran and the entire Phoenix team for this beautiful opportunity. It is a gift to play a role that you relate to so deeply. Love to my sweet Mira, always.
KENDALL THORNER
(Whitney / Inmate / u/s Elle)
is ecstatic to have been cast in her 1st understudy role in Phoenix Productions’ Legally Blonde! She’ll be starting her 2nd year as a musical theatre student at NYU Tisch in the fall and would like to thank everyone who has supported her along her journey, especially James, Jarrod, and Natalie. She also congratulates the cast and crew on such a wonderful show. She hopes you enjoy it as much as she does performing in it!
GABRIEL ANGEL VALLE
(Dewey / Court Stenographer / Violinist)
wants everyone to know that even though they’re bald, they would have gone blonde for this show. They’re beyond grateful to their family, friends, and everyone at Phoenix Productions for their constant support. Gabriel is excited to take on many roles in this production—and would like to clarify that, unlike Dewey, they are not a straight, misogynistic man. Want to see more of my work? You can check me out on Instagram: @gabrielangelvalle
MILES DAVIS-SCOTT (Rufus)
is rooing with excitement to be making his Basie debut reprising his beloved role as Rufus! A natural-born scene-stealer with the cutest face you’ve ever seen, Miles made his debut with Phoenix Productions and has been chasing the spotlight ever since. He sends wags and kisses to his mom and dad for believing in his star power and giving him the chance to shine again. Special thanks to his Phoenix Productions family for welcoming him back with open paws. Here’s to more belly rubs, big stretches, and standing ovations.
PYPER (Bruiser Woods)
& TIA (u/s Bruiser Woods)
Pyper has played the part of Bruiser Woods in over 16 different productions of Legally Blonde and is excited to be a part of Phoenix’s production of Legally Blonde. When Pyper isn’t acting she is a pet therapy dog. She visits assisted living homes and brings joy to all the residents. She loves doing both jobs… Tia is her big sister, Pyper ‘s understudy. This will be her 1st time doing the role of Bruiser Woods. She is very excited. When Tia isn’t acting she has started doing doggie modeling with her sister, Pyper.
WHO’S WHO ON THE PRODUCTION TEAM
JAMES MARHOLD (Production Manager)
has been a performer and Production Manager at Phoenix for over 35 years! Production credits include: Cameron Mackintosh and Disney’s Mary Poppins, RENT, In the Heights, Once on This Island, Evita, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, West Side Story, Grease, Legally Blonde, Nice Work If You Can Get It, Spring Awakening, Elf The Musical, The Wedding Singer, and Songs for a New World. Thanks to Kathy and Patrick for their love and support!
JARROD SCOTT (Director) is proud to be the Director and part of the team presenting Legally Blonde. Jarrod is a private vocal coach, arts educator for The Count Basie Center Turner Academy of the Arts, and music teacher in various school districts in NJ. Previous directorial credits include: The Color Purple, The Mountaintop, The Addams Family, Once on This Island, and Runaways. Jarrod is a worldtouring vocalist, entertainer, songwriter, and musician. With the belief that the love for the craft shrinks the spaces created between us all, he would like to thank his wife, team, and incredibly gifted cast.
NATALIE HAYES-SCOTT (Choreographer) is thrilled to be back at the Basie! She began her journey with Phoenix Productions as a teaching artist and performer, playing Sheila in A Chorus Line. Since then, she has directed and choreographed many of Phoenix’s mainstage shows, including last season’s production of RENT and The Color Purple. Thank you to the production team, this beautiful cast, her husband Jarrod, and her family and friends for their continuous support. She dedicates her work to her mom, Susan Hayes-Stasio and sister, Kim Clark.
FRANÇOIS SUHR (Music Director) loves returning to Phoenix Productions! Previous music direction credits include: RENT, The Addams Family, A Chorus Line, and Newsies, and he has played in the pit bands for many more! François is a choral music educator in the South Brunswick School District and works frequently as a music director and pianist for shows throughout NJ and NYC. François is a proud mix of Filipino and Swiss heritage. @suhrf
FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ (Production Stage Manager) is excited to be teaming up again with Jarrod and Natalie and working with this incredible Production Team. Fran has been with Phoenix for almost 30 years, both on stage and behind the scenes. Fran most recently performed in The Prom (Mrs. Greene, Broadway World nomination). Phoenix Stage Management credits include: In the Heights (Perry nomination), Kinky Boots, Mary Poppins, Once on This Island, Into the Woods, A Christmas Story, 1776, Little Shop of Horrors, and The Pirates of Penzance. Thanks to her ASM’s and crew for all of their hard work. Love to Stew, Sydney and Jason!
ZACK BLISS (Lighting Designer)
Previous Phoenix acting credits: Kinky Boots (Ensemble, u/s Charlie and Harry), The Addams Family (Lucas Beineke), Bat Boy: The Musical (Rick Taylor). Additional favorite credits: Be More Chill (Jeremy Heere), Spring Awakening (Ensemble, u/s Ernst), The Rocky Horror Show (Rocky Horror). When he’s not on stage, you can find him doing something behind the scenes. Zack would like to thank his friends and family for all of their support!
EMILY COCCOVIZZO (Assistant Stage Manager) is excited to make her Phoenix debut as Assistant Stage Manager! She recently graduated from Loyola University Maryland, where she studied Theatre, Forensic Science, and History. Her past credits include: Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic (Stage Manager), Noises Off (Assistant Director), Co-Directing and Producing an original play in Ireland, and RENT (Assistant Stage Manager, Iron Crow Theatre and its transfer to the M&T Bank Exchange at the FranceMerrick PAC). Emily is grateful to the Phoenix team for this opportunity and congratulates the entire cast and crew!
FRANKIE CONFALONE (Costume Designer) is thrilled to return to Phoenix, previously seen onstage in Kinky Boots (Harry) and Green Day’s American Idiot (Will) and as Costume Designer for RENT and In the Heights! Favorite Costume Designs: Boeing, Boeing (Monmouth HS), Rock of Ages, HAIR, and Little Shop of Horrors (Exit 82 Theatre with partner Desiree Davenport).
ASHLEY CUSACK (Scenic Charge) is a freelance designer and artist throughout the tri-state area. She holds her MFA in Set Design from Rutgers’ Mason Gross School of the Arts. Since 2007, Ashley has worked in the Phoenix shop mixing paint, building and dreaming up set pieces to fill the Basie stage. Favorite past Phoenix designs include: Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Once on This Island, Elf The Musical, and The Hunchback of Notre Dame. When not designing for the stage, she is busy starting new home projects and keeping up with her eight year old daughter’s imagination.
EMMA FREEMAN (Assistant Costume Designer) is currently studying costume design at London College of Fashion and has returned to New Jersey to partake in the summer internship at Phoenix Productions. Emma is so grateful to be a part of this amazing team and to play a small role in helping the performance come to life. She has learned so much from her amazing mentor, Frankie Confalone, and all of the talented individuals in this production. Emma is excited to continue pursuing her love for theatre and costume design.
MANNY JEAN-PIERRE (Assistant Stage Manager) is excited to assistant stage manage this show with this amazing company. His stage management journey started in 2023 with Rumors and Les Misérables (Neptune High School) and has skyrocketed to things he did not even know were possible. He also stage manages at Axelrod Performing Arts Academy (Holmdel). This is his 1st show with Phoenix and hopefully not his last. Manny thanks the amazing cast and crew who came together to put on this amazing show and especially Phoenix Productions for giving him this opportunity! Now, sit back and get ready for your journey to law school! Enjoy!
NAIRE OHANIAN (Assistant Stage Manager) is from Bergen County and a Senior at Stockton University (Theatre Performance with a concentration in Producing and Management for Stage and Screen). She is thrilled to contribute to her 1st Phoenix show and finds immense fulfillment in the artistry and precision of stage management, having stage managed over 10 productions. Naire strives to blend organization with creativity, ensuring that the magic of live theatre shines through and thrives in the fast-paced world of production, where every challenge is an opportunity to grow. She is incredibly grateful for the love and support of her mother, Mariah; her family; and her partner, Ellie, who all remind her why storytelling matters. Thank you to the cast and crew!!! It’s Showtime! Enjoy the Show!
WHO’S WHO ON THE PRODUCTION TEAM
KYLE SANTOPADRE (Technical Director / Lead Carpenter) has a BA in Theatre with a Design concentration from Rowan University. He is the Assistant Technical Director and Lighting Designer for The Count Basie Center for the Arts. Past scenic designs include: West Side Story and In the Heights (Phoenix Productions), Guys & Dolls (Phoenix Productions), Noises Off (Raritan HS), and Hello, Dolly! (Capital Productions). Many thanks to a wonderful production team!
MAGGIE SURGUY (Properties)
is beyond excited to dip her toes into the world of props for a show as fun as Legally Blonde! She has been involved in other shows such as West Side Story, RENT (Phoenix Productions); Arsenic and Old Lace, The Addams Family (Marlboro High School) and more. Maggie is looking forward to studying scenic design at Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University in the fall. She extends warm thank yous to the cast, crew, and production staff for an incredible experience!
DENNIS TOLENTINO (Sound Designer) has been with Phoenix since 2018 when he performed in In the Heights (Kevin Rosario) and has stage managed and performed in multiple productions since. A 2x NJACT Perry Award winning Stage Manager (including The Wizard of Oz for Phoenix), Dennis is a 1st generation FilipinoAmerican and graduated from Georgetown University. He spends his days working for McMaster-Carr Supply. Thank you to the cast and crew, his family and friends, and to you for supporting the arts!
JAMES GRAUSAM (Managing Artistic Director) has directed several productions for Phoenix at the Count Basie Center for the Arts, including: Fiddler on the Roof, The Full Monty, Miss Saigon, Jesus Christ Superstar, The Who’s Tommy, The 30th Anniversary Gala Concert, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Songs for a New World, Smokey Joe’s Café, Spring Awakening, Elf The Musical, Putting It Together, Evil Dead The Musical, Green Day’s American Idiot, The Music Man, Bat Boy: The Musical, and Kinky Boots. He continues to direct and perform other places as time allows. As always, for Olivia.
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