Phoenix Productions Presents: School of Rock - July 22-24 - 2022

COUNT BASIE CENTER FOR THE ARTS

July 22 - 24, 2022 Sponsored by

YEARS

PHOENIX PRODUCTIONS Presents

SCHOOL OF ROCK Based on the Paramount movie by Mike White

Book by Julian Fellowes Lyrics by Glenn Slater New Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber Scenic Design ANDREW ROBINSON

Lighting Design COREY RUBEL

Sound Design / Properties JUSTIN CHRISTOPHER ODON

Costume Design JOANNE PENROSE

Technical Director KYLE SANTOPADRE

Production Stage Manager ALYSSA BLONSKI

Choreographer NICOLE SMITH LEVAY

Music Director KARA LEIGH Director COREY RUBEL

SCHOOL OF ROCK is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of The Really Useful Group. www.concordtheatricals.com

Season Sponsors:

The Law Firm of Jonathan D’Agostino & Associates; World Subaru

A MESSAGE FROM THE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR Welcome back! As we open School of Rock we also kick off our new season. This season is the first as part of the Count Basie Center for the Arts family. And I couldn’t be more excited for what’s to come. This season is wonderfully eclectic with something for everyone – and everything but the kitchen sink for those who love musical theatre. We have modern pop/ rock sung by angsty kids, classic pop/rock sung by dirty hippies, a classical holiday musical ghost story, a Caribbean love story for the gods, and a golden age dice rolling, salvation seeking, boat rockin’ boy meets girl classic. What more could you ask for?

Now, it’s probably strange for many people to think of Phoenix Productions opening the new season in the summer. And that’s only one of the many changes you’ll see as it continues to grow and improve as a newly integrated part of the Count Basie Center. We’re dialing up our commitment to providing a wonderful experience to people on both sides of the footlights, while expanding our mission to include ensuring our community theatre is fully reflective of the community we serve. Community theatre is so much more than sets, lights and costumes, it’s about people. People on both sides of the footlights. Ensuring the theatre we are creating is inclusive, supportive, loving, and reflective of the whole human experience will only enrich our whole community and provide a better connection and understanding for everyone through the power of storytelling and the magic of theatre.

I welcome you all to come on this amazing journey with us as we continue our story as a community theatre organization. Whether in the audience, on stage, backstage, or in the workshops there is a place for everyone in community theatre – especially at Phoenix Productions and now as part of the Basie Center.

Enjoy the show.

James

Phoenix Productions, Inc. would like to thank our dedicated cast and staff that worked so hard to make our School of Rock show a success.

Joe Wajda, Executive Manager & Phoenix Operations Co-Chair

THE CAST Dewey Finn.........................................................................................................DAN KEYSER

Rosalie Mullins.............................................................................. MICHELLE ELAINE LUCEY Ned Schneebly............................................................................................... JAYSON DIXON

Patty DiMarco.....................................................................................ANGELINA FRANCESE Summer Hathaway........................................................................... ADRIELLA GONCALVES

Zack Mooneyham...................................................................................... NICK BUCHANAN Tomika Spencer-Williams............................................................... KYLA JORDAN PURYEAR Katie Travis..............................................................................................STEFANIE WORTON

Lawrence Turner................................................................................................. JASON KATZ

Freddy Hamilton..................................................................................... ANTHONY SHIELDS

Marcy..................................................................................................ELIANA JUNE GAMBLE Tori...........................................................................................................LUCIA ELENA ROSSI Sophie........................................................................................................ SIERRA FRIEDMAN

Madison.......................................................................................................SOPHIA LeBLANC

Mason Ward................................................................................................... OWEN BELAND James...........................................................................................................MATEO JURGENS Billy Sandford..........................................................................................DESMOND ELYSEEV

Logan..................................................................................................TOMMY KORTENHAUS Audrey.......................................................................................ANNABELLA “BELLA” YANG Elle...................................................................................................LILIANA “LEELEE” YANG ENSEMBLE

Jeff Sanderson / Mr. Williams (Tomika’s Dad) / Mr. Wagner................... KYLE ANDERSON Snake (No Vacancy) / James’ Dad / Teacher.......................................................ROD BELLE Elle’s Mom / Ms. Noble.................................................................................... SuANN CHEN

Summer’s Mom / Ms. Woodard.................................................................. REBECCA CONN Ms. Sheinkopf.........................................................................................LAUREN FRIEDMAN Theo (No Vacancy) / Zack’s Dad / Mr. Sanders............................................LEX FRIEDMAN Mason’s Mom / Ms. Janes..................................................................... KIMBERLY GELFAND

Stanley / Mr. Spencer (Tomika’s Dad) / Mr. Green...................................... KYLE KENNEDY

Doug (No Vacancy) / Billy’s Dad / Mr. Bingham....................................... CONNOR NASPO Lawrence’s Mom / Ms. Gordon........................................................ MARIETTA RACANCOJ

Katie’s Mom / Mrs. Macapugay.................................................................. MORGAN ROSSI

Bob (No Vacancy) / Freddy’s Dad / Gabe Brown.....................................MATTHEW TOBIO UNDERSTUDIES For Rosalie: ANGELINA FRANCESE; For Summer: ELIANA JUNE GAMBLE; For Zack: OWEN BELAND; For Katie: LUCIA ELENA ROSSI; For Lawrence: LILIANA “LEELEE” YANG; For Freddy: MATEO JURGENS; For Marcy: SIERRA FRIEDMAN; For Billy: TOMMY KORTENHAUS

872 Hwy. 36, Leonardo, NJ 07737

732-291-0556 www.SebastiansDaySpa.com

THE CAST

THE GIRLS: Wendla………………………………………….…..................................... Sarah Coleman Martha………………………………………….….................................... Nadia Jewel Vito Director.......................................................................................................COREY RUBEL Thea……………………………………................…................................. Jess D’Agostino Choreographer............................................................................... NICOLE SMITH LEVAY Anna……………………………………................….......................................

Riley Martin Music Director................................................................................................KARA LEIGH Ilse……………………………………................….......................................

Milena Makse Technical Director..............................................................................KYLE SANTOPADRE

THE PRODUCTION TEAM

Lighting Design...........................................................................................COREY RUBEL

THE BOYS: Scenic Design.................................................................................. ANDREW ROBINSON Melchior………………………………………….…..........................................

JoeyODON Maher Sound Design....................................................................JUSTIN CHRISTOPHER Moritz………………………………………….…..................................................

CJ Carter Costume Design................................................................................. JOANNE PENROSE Properties./ .........................................................................JUSTIN CHRISTOPHER ODON Hänschen Rupert……………………………………................….................

Griffin Cole Master Carpenter / Assistant Technical Director. . ......................................FRANK BELL Ernst / Reinhold……………………………………................…................... Jayson Dixon Production Manager............................................................................ JAMES GRAUSAM Georg / Dieter……………………………………................…..................... Israel Orengo Associate Production Manager............................................ FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ Otto / Ulbrecht……………………………………................…................

Chad Fruscione Associate Production Manager......................................................DENNIS TOLENTINO Production Stage Manager................................................................... ALYSSA BLONSKI

Adult Women……………………………………...............................…......

Love Ruddell Deck Stage Manager / Assistant Stage Manager...................................SAM CASHION Adult Men…………………………………….............................…......

Michael McEntee Assistant Stage Manager........................................................................ KIM GONZALEZ Choreographer’s Assistant.............................................................WILLIAM EINBINDER Assistant Properties..................................................................................... ERIN GERITY Backstage Crew ............................................... DANA DiANGELO, MARISA PROCOPIO A2 / Sound Crew..............................................................................EVELYN KAMBEROV Production Assistant............................................................................. KARLA APARICIO Conductor / Keyboard 1………………………………………….…................... Jason Neri Managing / Artistic Director............................................................... JAMES GRAUSAM Drums Percussion……………………………………................…....................

Jay Mack Special/Thanks. ........................................................................................ DIANE DiYANNI, Bass……………………………………................…........................................

Chris Lough ................................................................................. MAURER PRODUCTIONS ONSTAGE

the ORCHESTRA

Guitar 1………………………………………….….......................................... Paul Heaney Guitar 2……………………………………................…........................... Ben Samuelson Cello……………………………………................…...................................... Patty Gonski Violin……………………………………................…................................ Katie von Braun Viola……………………………………................….................................

Ryu Mitsuhashi Conductor / Keyboard 1...............................................................................KARA LEIGH

THE ORCHESTRA

Drums................................................................................................................ JAY MACK Guitar 1...................................................................................... BENJAMIN SAMUELSON Guitar 2........................................................................................................PAUL HEANEY Warning: This show contains adult content, explicit language, Bass..............................................................................................................CHRIS LOUGH and the use of gunshot and strobe light effects.

www.PhoenixRedBank.com

PHOENIX PRODUCTIONS OPERATIONS COMMITTEE SoVonna Day-Goins (Co-Chair)

Joe Wajda (Co-Chair)

Sarah Bradley

Jerry Conaty

Karen Franklin

Marc Goldberg

PHOENIX PRODUCTIONS, INC STAFF

Fran Katz Jim Marhold Managing / Artistic Director …….....................…........................ James Grausam Michael Parent Adam Phillipson Box Office Manager …….....................….........................................… Lauren Quint Mark Regan, Jr. Izzy Sackowitz Education Coordinator …….....................…...................................… Diane DiYanni Jon Vena …….....................…...................................… Cindy Coffey Business Administrator Box Office Staff …….....................…................................................… Claire Healey Bookkeeper …….....................…..................................................… Jaclyn Colaizzo

Count Basie Center for the Arts, a not for profit organization Count Basie Center Executive Committee of the Board Jeremy Grunin Chairperson

Stephen Cutler Treasurer

PHOENIX PRODUCTIONS BOARD OF TRUSTEES Michael Parent

Vice Chair of Development

SoVonna Day-Goins

Maria Maher

Co-Secretary

Robin KleinZawadzky Andrea

Human Resources Chair

Maggie Riker

Vice Chair of Operations

Claudia Dulac Jim Marhold

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer

Co-Secretary

Philipson Marc Adam Goldberg

President & Chief Executive Officer, Ex Officio

Mark Regan, Jr. Joe Wajda Brian LaRue SoVonna Day-Goins Jon D’Agostino Fran Katz Count Basie Center Board of Trustees TomMatthew Martini Justine Coleman Jerry Conaty Stuart Alderoty Craig Cummings J. Saker

Mitch Ansell Peter Ardolino Alison Banks-Moore Tom Bernard Sarah Bradley Michael Bruno James M. Cadet Robert Chandler Jerry Conaty

Mollie Giamanco Peter B. Seligman Lauren Goldfarb Richard Spengler Yvonne Grayson Carol Stillwell Mark Hogan Fran Turner Marshall Knopf Joe Wajda If you’d like information about auditioning Mario Monello Tom Widener Mark Rohl for a future show, please visit our website at: Darrell Lawrence Willis Peter T. Roselle Kaye Wise www.PhoenixRedBank.com/auditions Edward J. Zipprich

This program is made possible in part by funds from Monmouth Arts, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, and the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners.

SCENES / MUSICAL NUMBERS ACT I Scene 1: The Olympic Powerhouse “I’m Too Hot for You”......................................................................... No Vacancy and Dewey Scene 2: Dewey’s Bedroom “When I Climb to the Top of Mount Rock”................................................................... Dewey

Scene 3: Horace Green - The Assembly Hall “Horace Green Alma Mater”................................................. Rosalie, Students, and Teachers “Here at Horace Green”................................................................................................Rosalie Scene 4: The Apartment “Variation 7”................................................................................................... Dewey and Ned “Children of Rock”.......................................................................................... Dewey and Ned

Scene 5: Horace Green - The Hallway Outside the Music Room “Queen of the Night”....................................................................................................Rosalie

Scene 6: Horace Green - The Classroom “You’re in the Band”................................................................................Dewey and Students “You’re in the Band” (Reprise).................................................................Dewey and Students Scene 7: Students’ Homes “If Only You Would Listen”.................................................. Zack, Billy, Freddy, and Students

Scene 8: Horace Green - The Classroom “In the End of Time”...................................................................................................... Dewey

Scene 9: Horace Green - The Faculty Lounge “Faculty Quadrille” .................................................................................................... Teachers

Scene 10: Horace Green - The Classroom “In the End of Time” (Band Practice)......................................................Dewey and Students “Stick It to the Man”................................................................................Dewey and Students Scene 11: Horace Green - The Halls

Scene 12: The Palace Theatre - Backstage “In the End of Time” (The Audition)........................................................Dewey and Students “Stick It to the Man” (Reprise)................................................................Dewey and Students

(THERE WILL BE ONE 15-MINUTE INTERMISSION.)

SCENES / MUSICAL NUMBERS ACT II Scene 1: Horace Green - The Classroom “Time to Play”....................................................................................... Summer and Students Scene 2: Horace Green - The Faculty Lounge

Scene 3: Horace Green - The Classroom “Amazing Grace”........................................................................................................... Tomika “Math is a Wonderful Thing”...................................................................Dewey and Students Scene 4: The Roadhouse “Where Did the Rock Go?” ..........................................................................................Rosalie Scene 5: The Apartment - The Living Room Scene 6: Horace Green - A Hallway

Scene 7: Horace Green - The Classroom “School of Rock” (Band Practice)................................................. Zach, Dewey, and Students “Dewey’s Confession” ............................................ Dewey, Rosalie, Patty, Ned, and Parents

Scene 8: The Apartment - Dewey’s Bedroom “If Only You Would Listen” (Reprise)...................................................... Tomika and Students

Scene 9: The Palace Theatre - Onstage “I’m Too Hot for You” (The Competition)............................................................. No Vacancy “School of Rock” (The Competition).........................................Dewey, Tomika, and Students “Stick It to the Man” (Competition Encore)............................................Dewey and Students “Queen of the Night” (Rock Version)................................Dewey, Rosalie, and Full Company

The videotaping or other video or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited. The taking of photographs, either with or without flash, is strictly prohibited.

Please turn off all electronic devices such as cellular phones, beepers, and watches.

SONG CREDITS “You’re in the Band”

by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Glenn Slater, Jon Lord, Ian Gillan, Ritchie Blackmore, Roger Glover, Ian Paice, Lou Reed, Charles Strouse & Martin Charnin Published by The Really Useful Group Ltd. / B Feldman & Co. Ltd. / Warner Chappell North America Ltd. & Chappell-Morris Ltd. “In the End of Time”

by Jack Black and Warren Fitzgerald Published by Sony / ATV Music Publishing Ltd. “Queen of the Night”

by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart “Math is a Wonderful Thing”

by Mike White & Jack Black Published by Time for My Breakfast & Sony / ATV Harmony UK. “Edge of Seventeen”

by Stevie Nicks Published by Welsh Witch Music / Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd. “Variation 7”

by Andrew Lloyd Webber Published by The Really Useful Group Ltd. “School of Rock”

by Mike White & Samuel Buonagurio Published by Spirit Music Publishing Ltd. & Sony / ATV Harmony UK.

Summer 2022 ENROLL TODAY

THEBASIE.ORG/ACADEMY

PHOENIX PRODUCTIONS THANKS OUR 2022/2023 SPONSORS & DONORS

2022/2023 SEASON SPONSORS

The Law Firm of Jonathan D’Agostino & Associates - Jon & Jade D’Agostino World Subaru - Joe & Nicole Wajda

PHOENIX PRODUCTIONS 2022/2023 SEASON DONORS ANGEL LEVEL: $1,000-$1,999 Thomas Hessman, Susan Relyea

RISING STAR LEVEL: $500-$999 The Valentino Family

PATRON LEVEL: $250-$499 Joseph Ercolino

FAN LEVEL: $50-$249

Chris Adamo, Sean, Melissa & Cricket Bailey, Alfred Bevacqua, Nancy Cavaliere, Frances Crocco, Susan Culbert, Ronald Danielson, Charles Falk, Eric Klings, Thomas LaBue, Donna Pinamonti, Charles Rodman, Barbara Saake, Diane Tresente, Angela Ensor Tress, John Wells

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, Sydney & 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

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WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST KYLE ANDERSON (Jeff Sanderson / Mr. Williams - Tomika’s Dad / Mr. Wagner) is very excited to be in his very first show with Phoenix Productions (which also happens to be his first show ever). Kyle would like to thank his family for supporting him, his vocal coach Elena Blyskal for helping him improve as both a singer and a performer, his friend Elena Worton for encouraging him to audition, and the cast and production staff for their hard work putting on such an incredible show.

OWEN BELAND (Mason Ward) Phoenix debut! Owen discovered his love of musical theater in Disney’s The Little Mermaid (Chef Louie) and Rock of Ages (Drew Boley) with Holmdel Schools’ drama programs. Owen is a 2nd degree Black Belt in TKD who dreams of becoming a science teacher and actor. Owen would like to thank his family, his music and drama teachers for always supporting him, and Phoenix Productions for giving him this amazing opportunity.

ROD BELLE (Snake - No Vacancy / James’ Dad / Teacher) returns to Phoenix after performing in The Wedding Singer (Mr.T). Recent performances include: Legally Blonde (Old Library Theater) and Cinderella (Algonquin Arts). Other credits include: Spamalot (God), West Side Story (Chino), A Chorus Line (Cut dancer/Ritchie u/s). Rod is a Sci-Fi horror geek, a freelance entertainment industry producer, and an award winning filmmaker. Thanks to the cast, crew, production team, and ESPECIALLY the Audience. ROCK ON AMERICA! NICK BUCHANAN (Zack Mooneyham) is thrilled to be making his debut with Phoenix Productions! Nick just completed his freshman year at CBA, where he starred in their musical, 13 (Evan Goldman). He loves to sing, play guitar, and golf. Nick wants to thank everyone at Phoenix, CBA, and Pegasus Productions (Mr. Lopez, Mr. Orozco, Mr. Auriemma, etc.), as well as Rob Butkowski at Rock’n Music Academy for preparing him for this role.

Nick thanks his awesome family and friends!

SuANN CHEN (Elle’s Mom / Ms. Noble) is humbled and overjoyed to be performing on the Basie stage, especially with her two daughters! Favorite past roles: Mulan, Shrek The Musical (Mama Ogre), The Secret Garden (Ayah), Hair (Jeanie), Once on This Island (Ti-Moune), and Pocahontas. She also works as a Brain Injury Rehab Physician and the Medical Director at Hackensack Meridian Johnson Rehabilitation Institute at Ocean Medical Center. Endless thanks to Jimmy for sharing this crazy journey and to this amazing cast and crew!

REBECCA CONN (Summer’s Mom / Ms. Woodard) is honored to be in her first production at Phoenix! This is her first show since COVID, so she’s been itching to get back on stage. She can now continue her dream life as a government employee by day and ametuar actress by night. She would like to thank Corey, Kara, and the entire cast for being so welcoming and lovely. Special shout out to her fellow adult ensemble and her awardwinning cat, Babe.

WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST JAYSON DIXON (Ned Schneebly) attends Roger Williams University studying for a BS in Legal Studies and BA in Philosophy, with a minor in Performing Arts. Past credits include: RENT (Angel), It’s A Wonderful Life: Radio Play (Clarence), Fences (Gabriel), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Clopin), and Phoenix’s Spring Awakening (Ernst). He is ecstatic to perform with Phoenix once again and wishes everyone to break their legs on a successful production!

DESMOND ELYSEEV (Billy Sandford) When not building magnetic masterpieces, painting all things Bob Ross, taking land/sea adventures with friends/family, and whispering to his hermit crabs; you will hear this Renaissance man singing high C’s while donned in his latest costume find.

A “Standing O” of thanks to the cast/crew and Desi’s team: ThePrepNJ, Broadway Mentors Program, Bercy Talent, Donna Madden, Christina Perrino, Sean Mills, his parents, The Triune God / God Squad / Angels / Saints. Just breathe and believe!

ANGELINA FRANCESE (Patty DiMarco) is thrilled to be back at The Basie after being a part of the ensemble for The Wedding Singer! During the school year, Angelina teaches primary school music in Monmouth County.

She is so happy to help bring this show to life, a show that exemplifies the importance of arts education in our schools. Enjoy!

LAUREN FRIEDMAN (Ms. Sheinkopf) is a preschool teaching, brownie baking, summer loving, gardening enthusiast who is just so excited to be part of this production of School of Rock! She has previously appeared in Phoenix’s The Wizard of Oz, The Wedding Singer, and Elf: The Musical.

This show is extra special to her because she gets to perform with her daughter Sierra and her husband Lex - love you both! Much love to Ani and Liam as well!

LEX FRIEDMAN (Theo - No Vacancy / Zack’s Dad / Mr. Sanders) is excited to be in his first Phoenix production and to act alongside his wife, Lauren, and daughter, Sierra. He’s also excited to be embracing the role he was born to play: Nordic-Haired Rock God. Lex improvises with ComedySportz Jersey Shore and Death By Improv in New Jersey. He promises he doesn’t resent the fact that for School of Rock, he had to, you know, actually learn lines! Love to Ani and Liam.

SIERRA FRIEDMAN (Sophie) is ecstatic to be in her dream show with her favorite theater company! She was previously seen in Phoenix’s productions of The Wizard of Oz and Elf: The Musical. Aside from theatre, Sierra loves tap, jazz, playing the violin, and all kinds of art, especially painting. She thanks her parents, siblings, and pets for being her biggest fans.

KIMBERLY GELFAND (Mason’s Mom / Ms. Janes) is excited to return to the Count Basie stage with Phoenix Productions for the third time in 2022, after previously appearing in The Wedding Singer (Dance Ensemble) and The Wizard of Oz. She thanks the production team for this amazing opportunity and for making this show a delight, and her parents for their love and support - and for always having tried to “listen”.

WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST ELIANA JUNE GAMBLE (Marcy) is ready to rock to the Basie! Favorite theater credits include: Annie (Annie; Surflight Theatre), Annie (Molly; Algonquin Arts Theatre), Matilda (Lavender; BCCT), and Home For The Holidays (Gabby, Surflight Theatre). Big thanks to Team Eli: Michelle, Badiene, Angela, Jeorgi, Raquel, Jillian, The Dance Centre, and the family. Eliana is represented by Sherry Kayne and Stewart Talent as a professional actor, singer, dancer, VO artist and model. Follow me on IG: @elianajunegamble ADRIELLA GONCALVES (Summer Hathaway) is doing her second Phoenix show and is excited to be playing the role of Summer! This has been one of her dream roles and she is so happy that it is finally a reality. She can’t wait to rock out with her castmates and put on the best concert ever! Adriella would like to thank Corey, James, Dennis, and the entire Phoenix team for this awesome opportunity. A huge thank you to her family, friends, coaches, and team for their continued support!! IG @ adriellaann_official MATEO JURGENS (James) is a soon-to-be eighth grader at Oak Hill Academy. He is excited to make his community theater debut. Until last summer, Mateo lived in Manhattan, where he studied drums and piano.

He also danced at Alvin Ailey for many years. Since moving to Rumson, Mateo has continued to play drums at Lakehouse Music Academy. In his free time, Mateo enjoys playing video games, sharing hilarious YouTube Videos, and engaging in philosophical debates.

JASON KATZ (Lawrence Turner) is honored to be “in the band” and to work alongside the rest of this super-talented cast and production team.

Jason started with Phoenix in the cast of Tommy (Young Tommy). Some of Jason’s favorite roles include: Shrek The Musical JR. (Lord Farquaad), The Fantasticks (El Gallo), and Disney’s Beauty and The Beast JR. (Gaston) Jason is most grateful to Corey for this opportunity and of course to Kara for her help singing and playing!

KYLE KENNEDY (Stanley / Mr. Spencer - Tomika’s Dad / Mr. Green) is thrilled to be back on stage with Phoenix after a 4-year hiatus! This is Kyle’s 5th Phoenix show. He recently graduated from Montclair State University with his bachelor’s degree in English Education. Kyle will be pursuing his master’s degree as well as student teaching in September. Kyle wishes to thank the entire production team of School of Rock, his friends, and family for this wonderful opportunity and for always supporting him.

DAN KEYSER (Dewey Finn), a rock-loving teacher, is pumped to be portraying a rock-loving teacher on the beautiful Count Basie stage! When he is not performing (often alongside his very talented wife), Dan enjoys snuggling his trio of dogs, blasting prog/metal, reading fiction, watching pretentious movies, golfing poorly, and playing tabletop/video games. He would like to thank the cast and crew for this incredible experience and for always being hardcore!

WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST TOMMY KORTENHAUS (Logan) is thrilled to be making his debut with Phoenix Productions. He was previously seen in The Addams Family (Axelrod) and Frozen (Olaf; Thompson Middle School). He has performed with Premiere Theatre Company in Scrooge, Children of Eden, and Disney’s The Little Mermaid. He currently studies with David J.V. Meenan for voice and acting. He would like to thank his family for their support.

SOPHIA LeBLANC (Madison) is thrilled to be in her second Phoenix musical! Sophia was last seen on stage in Phoenix’s The Wizard of Oz (Lullaby League Munchkin). She can be found riding waves, enjoying bike rides, or singing just about anywhere. Sophia has recently given a swing at softball and her team won the championship!! She would like to thank God for gifting her with her voice and her love of theater. Thanks to Phoenix for believing in her!!

MICHELLE ELAINE LUCEY (Rosalie Mullins) is psyched to be playing Rosalie alongside this incredible cast. This is her second Phoenix show: The Wizard of Oz (Ensemble). Past credits include: The 25th Annual…

Spelling Bee (Rona Lisa Peretti), The Fantasticks (Luisa), Man of La Mancha (Aldonza), Ragtime (Mother), Chicago (Velma Kelly). Michelle studied Musical Theatre at Indian River State College. For fun, she enjoys long distance running, playing guitar, baking, and quality time with her pup, Hugo. She would like to thank her family for their support.

CONNOR NASPO (Doug - No Vacancy / Billy’s Dad / Mr. Bingham) is an actor with Tourette’s. He is so excited to be back for his second show with Phoenix Productions! Prior productions include: The Wizard of Oz, Disney’s The Lion King, and Young Frankenstein. Some of his films include: The Kids Are Not Ok, a Mr. Kitty music video, Carol’s Choices, and Crybaby River. Big shout out to Stephen Kazakoff for being a role model to Connor.

KYLA JORDAN PURYEAR (Tomika Spencer-Williams) is thrilled to make her mainstage debut with Phoenix, with history in their JR. productions of Annie, Disney’s Aladdin, Fame, and High School Musical. She is entering 7th grade at RBMS and is a Monmouth Conservatory of Music vocal student. With a musical family, it is no surprise she is following suit. For fun, Kyla loves to draw, spend time with her brother and their puppy, ride horses, and has a passion for writing music.

MARIETTA RACANCOJ (Lawrence’s Mom / Ms. Gordon) graduated with a Bachelor’s in Voice from TCNJ and also took classes in theater and performance. She loves to compose her own music and performed an original piece for piano, violin, and voice for her senior recital showcase.

She even sang the national anthem for the 2019 TCNJ commencement ceremony. She is the pianist and music director for St. Veronica Catholic Church and loves working with and directing the children’s, teen, and adult choirs.

WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST LUCIA ELENA ROSSI (Tori) is a 7th grade student at SFCS, and is thrilled to have School of Rock as her Phoenix debut. Her previous shows include: Bye Bye Birdie (Kim McAfee), Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (Belle), The Sound of Music (Brigitta), and Matilda (Matilda). She enjoys playing softball, singing, dancing and listening to 80’s Rock. She would like to thank the entire cast and crew for believing in her and making this experience so positive and memorable.

MORGAN ROSSI (Katie’s Mom / Mrs. Macapugay) In my free time, I love to sing, create art, and bake! My past roles include: The Sound of Music (Louisa Von Trapp), Les Miserables (Ensemble), and The Wizard of Oz (Ensemble/Lullaby League).

ANTHONY SHIELDS (Freddy Hamilton) has played drums since the age of six. He loves locking himself in the practice room, putting on the headphones, and playing along with various styles of music. His favorite bands are Green Day and the Foo Fighters. Currently, he is in a band called Arcadia, which plays at local venues at the Jersey Shore. He aspires to be a working drummer and dreams of rocking out for you at sold-out stadium concerts!

MATTHEW TOBIO (Bob - No Vacancy / Freddy’s Dad / Gabe Brown) is excited to be a part of Phoenix at the Basie. Working with this talented cast and crew has been a wonderful experience. In Matthew’s free time he enjoys traveling, trying new restaurants, comedy shows, and spending time with friends. He also enjoys amusement parks, musical mashups, and obscure movies. He would personally like to thank Corey for this amazing opportunity and looks forward to many more shows with Phoenix in the future.

STEFANIE WORTON (Katie Travis) is very excited to be in her first show with Phoenix Productions! Past credits include: Little Shop of Horrors (Audrey), ...Spelling Bee (Marcy), and Footloose (Willard). Stefanie will be attending Brookdale Community College in the fall and plans on studying photography. She would like to thank the cast, crew, and production team for all of their hard work on this amazing show!

ANNABELLA “BELLA” YANG (Audrey) is a rising 6th grader in Holmdel.

She is super excited and thankful to be in her first Phoenix production, especially with her sister and mom. She was most recently seen in the Artist Collective Troupe’s Disney revue, Wish Upon A Song (Young Nala), and earlier this year in her school’s spring production of Shrek The Musical Jr. (Mama Ogre). She also enjoys playing soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, piano, ukulele, and flute.

LILIANA “LEELEE” YANG (Elle) is a rising 4th grader in Holmdel, and she is so thankful to be part of this amazing show and cast, sharing the stage with her sister and mom. She was most recently seen in the Artist Collective Troupe’s Disney revue, Wish Upon A Song (Young Anna). She also enjoys playing piano, soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, and she never stops singing!

Joe Wajda, Executive Manager & Phoenix Operations Co-Chair

WHO’S WHO ON THE PRODUCTION TEAM COREY RUBEL (Director / Lighting Design) is beyond excited to be back at Phoenix for his fourth production and is ecstatic to be bringing School of Rock to the Basie stage with this incredible cast and creative team. Currently, Corey teaches Theatre Arts at the American School in London and is happy to be back in the states for a few weeks! Past Phoenix productions include: Disney’s Newsies (2019), In The Heights (2018), and Seussical (2017). Corey would like to thank the entire team here at Phoenix, this wonderfully committed and dedicated cast, this wonderfully dynamic creative team, his Mom and Dad for their constant support, and of course, Logan!

KARA LEIGH (Music Director) is a well-known music director throughout New Jersey. Her work also extends to New York and Pennsylvania. She has been teaching and music directing for 10 years. She is the resident Music Director at Ocean County College and Brookdale Community College. Some reputable New Jersey theaters that she has worked in include: Surflight (Beach Haven), The Axelrod (Deal), The Algonquin (Manasquan), Count Basie (Phoenix; Red Bank), The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey (Madison), Papermill Playhouse (Millburn), and Eagle Theatre (Hammonton). She received her education from Drew University, Monmouth University, and New York University.

NICOLE SMITH LEVAY (Choreographer) is a dance teaching artist and performance coach with over a decade of professional experience. Nicole is proud to have toured internationally as a contemporary dancer and teacher, as well as held adjunct professor and rehearsal director roles at the Montclair State University Dance Department. Gratitude to the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company for the life-changing experience of teaching their repertory and technique at collegiate theater and dance departments. She performed with Phoenix fifteen years ago, and is thrilled to return on the creative team for both SoR and HAIR! Big love to her family for making this all possible.

ALYSSA BLONSKI (Production Stage Manager) is a rising 3rd year Stage Management BFA student at Mason Gross School of the Arts. Though this is her first PSM position with Phoenix, this is Alyssa’s fifth production with the company. Previous Phoenix credits include: Every Wednesday Night (2nd ASM), Smokey Joe’s Cafe (ASM), Spring Awakening (ASM), and A Chorus Line (Deck SM). She would like to thank Corey, Sam, and Kim for their parts in making this production happen.

SAM CASHION (she/her) (Deck Stage Manager / Assistant Stage Manager) is thrilled to be able to be a part of her first official show at Phoenix Productions! After going to shows at the Basie for years, she is honored to be able to create with such an amazing cast and crew. Sam is currently a junior at Temple University with a major in Technical Production and Management and a minor in Italian. Special thanks to friends and family for their support. Goditi lo spettacolo!

KIM GONZALEZ (Assistant Stage Manager) is a rising sophomore at Montclair State University majoring in Theatre Studies. She previously studied at MCVTS East Brunswick Vo-Tech with a major in Acting. During the pandemic, she moved into directing Please Have A Seat and Someone Will Be With You Shortly, along with other works. At Montclair State, she plans to learn even more about Stage Management and Acting in order to create theatre to enact social change.

FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ (Associate Production Manager) is excited to be James’s “right hand man” on this show and to be working with this talented cast and production team. Fran started with Phoenix Productions in the cast of Peter Pan back in 1995 and has been a part of all aspects of the organization both on stage and behind the scenes, most recently serving as Production Manager for The Wizard of Oz. Some of Fran’s favorite credits include: Noises Off! (Poppy), Into the Woods (Little Red), Cinderella (Fairy Godmother), Daughters (Cetta), and 1776 (Roger Sherman - all women’s version). Fran would like to thank her family for their continued support.

WHO’S WHO ON THE PRODUCTION TEAM JUSTIN CHRISTOPHER ODON (Sound Design / Properties) Theatre background includes directing, choreographing, lighting & set design, sound design, production management, and producing. Past credits include: Mamma Mia!, In the Heights, Once on This Island, Cabaret, Songs for a New World, A Chorus Line, Disney’s Descendants: The Musical, and The Wizard of Oz. Justin is also a teaching artist for the Count Basie Academy of the Arts and directs the JR. productions for the Phoenix Rising Star Academy. He is also the founder and artistic director of two theater companies, Theatre@Home and Junior Theatre Productions. @justinchris95 JOANNE PENROSE (Costume Design) is a retired FACS teacher and still glad to be in a classroom with an amazing group of talented kids and teachers. Enjoy the show because who doesn’t want to “stick it to the man”!

KYLE SANTOPADRE (Technical Director) has a BA in Theatre with a Design concentration from Rowan University. After college, Kyle worked for Royal Caribbean as Technical Stage Staff on board the Oasis of the Seas (CATS, Frozen In Time, Come Fly With Me, Oasis of Dreams). He is currently the Assistant Technical Director and Lighting Designer for The Count Basie Center for the Arts. Some past designs include: Spring Awakening, A Chorus Line, The Wizard of Oz (Phoenix Productions); Hello, Dolly! (Capital Productions), and Noises Off (Raritan High School).

Many thanks to a wonderful production team!

DENNIS TOLENTINO (Associate Production Manager) has performed or stage managed in over 15 Phoenix productions since 2018. He is an NJACT Perry Award winning stage manager (Memphis; Kelsey Theatre) and nominated actor (A Few Good Men; Playhouse 22). A 1st generation FilipinoAmerican, Dennis grew up in Bloomfield and Old Bridge and now lives in Manalapan. He graduated from Georgetown University (Marketing / International Business double major, Theater minor) and spends his days working for McMaster-Carr Supply. Thank you for supporting live theater!

NEW THIS SEASON! SHOWS AT THE VOGEL ON SALE SOON at THEBASIE.ORG

OCTOBER 28-29 • 2022

Evil Dead: The Musical

MARCH 10-11 • 2023

Green Day’s American Idiot

TICKETS THEBASIE.ORG

SEASON 2022/23 J U LY 2 2, 23, 24

School of Rock SEPTE M B E R 23, 24 , 2 5

Hair

N OVEM B E R 18, 19, 2 0

A Christmas Carol F EBR U ARY 17, 18, 1 9

Once on This Island MAY 5, 6, 7

Guys and Dolls TICKETS & SEASON SUBSCRIPTIONS

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