Producing Artistic Director Bobb Cooper presents…
Presented at Valley Youth Theatre
April 5-21, 2019
Book by CLAUDIA
SHEAR & TIM FEDERLE Music and Vocal Arrangements by CHRIS MILLER Lyrics by NATHAN TYSEN Orchestrations by JOHN CLANCY
Ballet Music Arranged by DAVID CHASE
Based on the novel Tuck Everlasting by NATALIE BABBITT Originally Produced on Broadway by Grove Entertainment, Arlene Scanlan & Michael Jackowitz, Howard & Janet Kagan, and Barry Brown World Premier Produced by Alliance Theatre, Atlanta, GA Artistic Director Susan V. Booth Director BOBB COOPER Choreographer NATHALIE VELASQUEZ Musical Director TRISTAN PETERSON-STEINERT Costume Designer KAROL COOPER Scenic Designer DORI BROWN Sound Designer BRIAN HONSBERGER Lighting Designer JEFF DAVIS Production Stage Manager JOYCELIN JACOBS-SCHWARTZ
Sponsored by “Tuck Everlasting” is presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH, INC.
CAST OF CHARACTERS (In alphabetical order)
Michael Ayala................................................................................................................Ensemble Reese Cantu.......................................................................................................................... Hugo Noah Delgado.....................................................................................................................Angus Jessica Fink......................................................................................................................... Mother Alexander Flores............................................................................................................Ensemble Parker Gates.......................................................................................................... Constable Joe Luca Grasso.................................................................................................... Thomas / Little Boy Tatum Grell......................................................................................................................Ensemble Lainey Kenly........................................................................................................................ Winnie Graham McLemore.......................................................................................................Ensemble Noah McNeil..................................................................................................................Ensemble Kylie Merrill......................................................................................................................Ensemble Anna Mettes...................................................................................................................Ensemble Brooke Nielsen...............................................................................................................Ensemble Erin Deines Schumacher...............................................................................................Ensemble Hayden Skaggs......................................................................................... Man in the Yellow Suit Prescott Smidt.................................................................................................................Ensemble Riley Thornton........................................................................................................................ Jesse Taylor Underwood................................................................................................................. Nana Justin Vaught..................................................................................................................Ensemble Jessica Wastchak........................................................................................................... Mae Tuck Andy Wissink........................................................................................................................... Miles Ryley Grace Youngs......................................................................................................Ensemble
PRODUCTION STAFF (At time of printing)
Director.....................................................................................................................Bobb Cooper Costume Designer.................................................................................................. Karol Cooper Music Supervisor.......................................................................................................Mark Fearey Musical Director..................................................................................... Tristan Peterson-Steinert Choreographer............................................................................................. Nathalie Velasquez Scenic Designer........................................................................................................... Dori Brown Sound Designer................................................................................................ Brian Honsberger Lighting Designer........................................................................................................... Jeff Davis Technical Director....................................................................................................... Matt Brown Production Stage Manager & Props Designer...............................Joycelin Jacobs-Schwartz Assistant Stage Manager.............................................................................................Niki Brown Hair & Makeup Designer........................................................................................ Karol Cooper Costume Shop Assistant........................................................................................Renee Bioletto Guest Stitcher..........................................................................................................Connie Martin Wardrobe Intern..............................................................................................................Paige Hill Sound Board Operator.............................................................................................. Katie Brown Deck Crew.....................................Grace Bush, Kate Daley, Emily Jacoby, Carson Roubison THE VIDEOTAPING OR MAKING OF ELECTRONIC OR OTHER AUDIO AND/OR VISUAL RECORDINGS OF THIS PRODUCTION OR DISTRIBUTING RECORDINGS ON ANY MEDIUM, INCLUDING THE INTERNET, IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED, A VIOLATION OF THE AUTHOR’S RIGHTS AND ACTIONABLE UNDER UNITED STATES COPYRIGHT LAW. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT: WWW.SAMUELFRENCH.COM/WHITEPAPER
MUSICAL NUMBERS ACT ONE Opening.......................................................................................................... Ensemble Live Like This.................................... Winnie, Mae, Miles, Yellow Suit, Jesse, Ensemble Live Like This Playoff...........................................................................Winnie, Ensemble Good Girl Winnie Foster......................................................Winnie, Mother, Ensemble Join the Parade.......................................................................... Yellow Suit, Ensemble Good Girl Winnie Foster (Reprise)...................................................Winnie, Ensemble Top of the World...................................................................... Jesse Winnie, Ensemble Hugo’s First Case....................................................................................................Hugo Hugo’s First Case (Reprise)....................................................... Hugo, Constable Joe Story of the Tucks..................................................................Mae, Miles, Jesse, Winnie My Most Beautiful Day............................................................................................ Mae Beautiful Day (Part 2) ................................................................................ Mae, Angus From Attic to Porch.............................................................................................. Winnie Join the Parade (Reprise)......................................................... Yellow Suit, Ensemble Partner in Crime..................................................................... Jesse, Winnie, Ensemble Partner in Crime (Part 2) ...................................................... Winnie, Jesse, Ensemble Seventeen...............................................................................................................Jesse End of Act One...................................................Jesse, Yellow Suit, Winnie, Ensemble
ACT TWO Ev’rything’s Golden.................................................................... Yellow Suit, Ensemble Ev’rything’s Golden (Part 2)...................................................... Yellow Suit, Ensemble Seventeen (Reprise)............................................................................................ Winnie Time.......................................................................................................................... Miles Time (Reprise)....................................................................... Mae, Jesse, Angus, Miles Ev’rything’s Golden (Reprise)...................................................................... Yellow Suit You Can’t Trust a Man................................................................ Constable Joe, Hugo The Wheel..............................................................................Angus, Winnie, Ensemble Story of The Man in The Yellow Suit.............................................................. Yellow Suit Everlasting............................................................................................................ Winnie The Wheel (Finale)............................................ Jesse, Mae, Miles, Angus, Ensemble
ORCHESTRA Piano/Conductor................................................................................... Tristan Peterson-Steinert Violin/Viola.......................................... Anna Jakubczyk, Ivory Stephenson, Harrison Newton Cello............................................................................................. Hannah Lang, Cailet Popelier Reeds................................................................... Cassi Bussma, Suzanne Johnsen, Elly Khotim Trumpet.................................................................................................................... Mike Downey Keyboard..................................................................................... Daniel Sutton, Melissa Landes Drums......................................................................................................................... Cody Kellen Percussion.................................................................................................................Caden Potter Guitar......................................................................................................................... Alex Sanders
Oscar at The Oscars
Thank you to
Billie Jo Herberger and Oscar De las salas for hosting our 2nd Annual Oscar at the Oscars party in February. We especially thank our generous sponsors
and everyone who purchased tickets to root on our own Oscar nominees Emma Stone and Kimiko Glenn.
MEET THE CAST Michael Ayala (Ensemble) is 16, lives in Scottsdale and is in the 11th grade. This is his first show with VYT. He has also been in Christian Youth Theater’s Our Town (Mr. Webb), Dear Edwina Jr. (Scott), Lion King Jr. (Pumbaa) and Little Mermaid Jr. (Ensemble), as well as Desert Stages’ Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Dan) and Queen Creek Performing Arts Center’s Mystery at Shady Acres (Ensemble). He would like to go into the seminary, music, theatre or law. Reese Cantu (Hugo) is 15 and in 9th grade at Brophy College Preparatory. He lives in Phoenix and this is his 5th VYT show. Others include Newsies (Jojo), Shrek (Ensemble), Wizard of Oz (Ensemble/Flying Monkey) and Alice in Wonderland (Ensemble). He also appeared in Brophy/Xavier Theatre’s Seussical (Ensemble/ Dance Captain). At school, his is ASL Club Moderator and in Drama Club and Dance Club. Reese would like to earn his living in computer programming or on Broadway! Noah Delgado (Angus) is 19 and a Journalism Major at Arizona State University. This is his first show at VYT, but he’s no stranger to the stage. He has appeared in several Actor’s Youth Theatre productions, including Jekyll & Hyde (Dr. Henry Jekyll/ Edward Hyde), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Claude Frollo), A Chorus Line (Paul), Spamalot (King Arthur), Anything Goes (Lord Evelyn Oakleigh) and Dracula (Count Dracula). He was also the host and videographer for Spot 127’s Served: The inside Story of Our Food. Jessica Fink (Mother) is 16, lives in Phoenix, and is in the 11th grade. This is her first show at VYT. Previously she was in Dream City Church’s Annie (Star to Be/ Boylan Sister), Little Mermaid (Adella) and Mary Poppins (Jane Banks), as well as Nickelodeon’s Hotel Transylvania 2 commercial (Werewolf). She is involved in tap, ballet, voice lessons, her church group and piano. Her ultimate goal is Broadway, but she’s also interested in rescuing cats and kittens. Her favorite musical is Miss Saigon. Alexander Flores (Ensemble) is 15 and in 9th grade at Arizona School for the Arts. His VYT experience includes The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane (Lawrence/ Jack), Newsies (Mush) and A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail (Eeyore). As a Jaguar Player of Aprende Middle School, he was in Rock of Ages (Lonnie) and High School Musical Jr. (Ryan), among others. He has also been in Arizona School for the Arts’ Ozma of Oz (Tech Crew) and Antigone (Old Man) and in Childsplay’s productions of Hamlet (Gravedigger / Guard), Footloose (Cowboy Bob / Lyle) and Macbeth. His favorite musical is Cabaret. Parker Gates (Constable Joe) is 16 years old and is a junior at Boulder Creek High School where he is involved in Broadway Bound Choir and CCV Youth Band. He also plays bass guitar in a band called “Force of Habit.” This is Parker’s 3rd show at VYT. The first two were Newsies (Wiesel/Jacobi) and Wizard of Oz (Ensemble). He was also in Musical Theatre of Anthem’s Beauty and the Beast (LeFou), School of Rock (Dewey Finn), Decided (Presten) and Mary Poppins (Chimney Sweep), as well as TheaterWorks’ Robin Hood (Friar Tuck). He hopes to pursue music production as a career.
MEET THE CAST Luca Grasso (Thomas/Little Boy) is 7 and in 2nd grade. He lives in Buckeye and this is his first VYT show. Why did he audition? “I tried out for Valley Youth Theatre because their shows are amazing. There is no better training in Arizona – this is the best!” He’s involved with Awana, voice, piano, dance and soccer. His favorite musical is Annie. “I am excited to play Thomas because my father (Miles) will be played by Andy Wissink and he is a great actor. I loved watching him in other shows and can’t wait to learn from him, the other actors and, of course, Mr. Cooper.” Tatum Grell (Ensemble) is 17 and in 11th grade at Arizona School for the Arts. This is her 2nd VYT show. The first was Wizard of Oz (Auntie Em). She has also appeared in her school’s Cabaret (Lulu) and Spring Awakening (Ensemble) as well as Greasepaint Youtheatre’s Footloose (Ethel McCormick) and The Pajama Game (Brenda). She was also in Theatre Artists Studio’s Jitterbug (Young Dalia). Her favorite activities are serving the Valley’s best pie at Pie Snob, binging Netflix and sleeping. She plans to pursue musical theatre as a career. Lainey Kenly (Winnie) is 14 and in 8th grade at St. Theresa Catholic School where she is involved in yearbook and theatre. She is also part of HyRev Performance Troupe at AZ Broadway Theatre. This is her first VYT show. She has been in her school’s The Little Mermaid (Ariel) and Desert Stages Theater’s Grease (Marty). She hopes to pursue a career on Broadway. What does she hope audience members take away from this show? “Follow your dreams!” Graham McLemore (Ensemble) is 16 and in 11th grade. This is his first VYT production. He has also been in Christian Youth Theater’s You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown (Charlie), Shrek, The Musical (Pinocchio) and Alice in Wonderland (White Rabbit). He is involved in dance, voice, basketball and gym and hopes to pursue a career in theatre. His favorite musical is Les Misérables. Why did he audition for this show? “I wanted to work with this artistic team.” Noah McNeil (Ensemble) is 14 and in 9th grade at Arizona School for the Arts. This is his second VYT show. The first was Little Mermaid (Ensemble). He was also in Black Theatre Troupe’s Caroline or Change (Noah Gellman) and Mesa Encore Theatre’s Billy Elliott (Michael). He is in the National Thespian Honor Society and hopes to be an actor or veterinarian in the future. When asked about this show, he said, “I hope that this show gives the audience members an understanding of how important life is.” Kylie Merrill (Ensemble) is 15 and in 9th grade at Perry High School, in Gilbert. This is her first VYT show, but she has been in her school’s Shrek (Little Red Riding Hood/Queen Lillian), Legacy Traditional Academy’s The Little Mermaid Jr. (Ariel) and Beauty and The Beast Jr. (Mrs. Potts) as well as Actors Youth Theatre’s Annie (Grace Farrell), The Little Mermaid (Allana), Hunchback of Notre Dame (Gargoyle) and Peter Pan and Wendy (Mrs. Darling). She’s involved in girls’ basketball, community change club, advanced women’s choir and glee club and plans to pursue singing as a career.
MEET THE CAST Anna Mettes (Ensemble) is 17 and in 11th grade at Arizona School for the Arts where she is in National Honor Society, Thespian Society, Film Club and “The Gate” Literary Magazine. She is also a member of VYTeens. This is Anna’s 5th show at VYT! She was also in Newsies (Dance Captain/Bowery Beauty/Nun/Woman), Annie, (Ronnie Boylan/Annett/Ensemble) and Madagascar: A Musical Adventure (Dance Captain/Lynn Lemur), and Alice in Wonderland (Duchess). At school, she performed in The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee (Marcy Park) and Antigone (Ismene). She wants to be a professional actress. Brooke Nielsen (Ensemble) is 17 and a freshman at Chaparral High School, in Scottsdale, where she participates in theatre, dance and lacrosse. She has appeared in VYT’s A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail (Owl), Chaparral’s Little Shop of Horrors (Chiffon) and Desert Stages Theatre’s 13 (Charlotte) and Hairspray (Little Inez). Brooke aspires to be a Broadway actress and graphic designer. Erin Deines Schumacher (Ensemble) is 14 and in 8th grade at Arizona Connections Academy. This is her first VYT show. Previously, she has been in Scottsdale Musical Theatre Company’s A Christmas Carol (Ensemble), and Fountain Hills Theatre’s Narnia, The Musical (Aslan) and The Producers (Ensemble). She lives in Fountain Hills, likes to dance & sing, attends church youth groups and does makeup videos & tutorials. She would love to pursue musical theatre and performing for a living. Why did she audition for this show? “Because I wanted to learn and work with some amazing people. Every experience is a chance for growth.” Hayden Skaggs (Man in the Yellow Suit) is 16 and in 11th grade at Saguaro High School. He lives in Scottsdale and this is his 5th VYT show. He was in our productions of Madagascar (Alex), Little Women (John Brooke), Annie (Ensemble), Peter Pan (John Darling) and Seussical (Cadet), as well as Desert Stages’ The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Mitch Mahoney) and Greasepaint’s Footloose (Rev. Shaw Moore). His favorite musical is Little Shop of Horrors. Prescott Smidt (Ensemble) is 15 and a Freshman at Arizona School for the Arts. He is active in Thespian Society and is a member of Youth Ensemble Theatre Inc. No stranger to VYT, he has participated in VYT’s The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane (Father/Watchman /Lucius/Clark), our past two productions of A Winnie-thePooh Christmas Tail (Christopher Robin), Newsies (Bill / Man / Policeman), Annie (Ensemble) and Little Women (Deck Crew). He has also been in Arizona School for the Arts’ Antigone and Childsplay’s Into the Woods and Mary Poppins. His favorite musical is Les Misérables. Riley Thornton (Jesse) is 15 and in 9th grade at Campo Verde High School. This is his 11th show at VYT! He was in our productions of The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane (Tech), A Winnie-The-Pooh Christmas Tail (Tech), Newsies (Crutchie), Little Women (Mr. Lawrence), Madagascar (King Julien), Shrek the Musical (Little Pig), A Winnie-The-Pooh Christmas Tail (Eeyore), Wizard of Oz (Ensemble), Alice in Wonderland (King of Hearts), and Charlotte’s Web (Lurvy). He has also been in Hale Theatre Center’s Big Fish (Zachy Price). His favorite musical is “She Loves Me!”
MEET THE CAST Taylor Underwood (Nana)is 16 and in 11th grade at Sandra Day O’Connor High School. She lives in Phoenix and this is her first VYT show. She has been in her school’s productions of Little Shop of Horrors (Audrey 2), Seussical (Mrs. Mayor) and How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying (Featured Ensemble), as well as Spotlight Youth Theater’s Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson (Soloist/Featured Ensemble) and Desert Foothills Theater’s Shrek The Musical (Wicket Witch/Duloc/ Bluebird). At school, she is Drama Club Publicist and Historian and she’s in HyRev at Arizona Broadway Theatre. Justin Vaught (Ensemble) is 17 and in 11th grade at Desert Vista High School. This is his tenth VYT production. He appeared in Newsies (Sniper), Annie (Ensemble), The Hobbit (Thorin), Wizard of Oz (Flying Monkey), Alice in Wonderland (Knave), Emperor’s New Clothes (Ensemble), Peter Pan (Slightly (Lost Boy)), Snow White (Scotty) and Seussical (A Who). He was also in Hale Center Theatre’s Christmas Carol (Doug Cratchit). Jessica Wastchak (Mae Tuck) is 16 and in 10th grade at Hamilton High School, in Chandler, where she participates in cross-country and school theatre. She recently ran a half-marathon and wants to work in the theatre industry. Her previous VYT credits include The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane (Society Lady/Old Lady), Shrek The Musical (Queen Lillian/Duloc/Rat) and Narnia (Cruelie). She has also appeared in Arizona Youth Theatre’s Ghost (Molly), Greasepaint’s Footloose (Featured Dancer) and Spotlight’s Cabaret (Kit Kat Girl / Dancer). Her favorite musical is Pippin. Andy Wissink (Miles) is 16 and in 10th grade at Brophy College Preparatory, where he is an officer in Drama Club, a member of Red & White Club and active in musical theatre. This is Andy’s 12th VYT show! He most recently appeared in VYT’s The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane (Edward), Newsies (Finch), Shrek The Musical (Captain/Ensemble), Wizard of Oz (Featured Ensemble) and Charlotte’s Web (Templeton), as well as in his school’s productions of Seussical (Horton), Into the Woods (Jack) and Greasepaint’s Elf (Buddy). Ryley Grace Youngs (Ensemble) Is 15 years old and in 10th grade at Imagine Prep High School, in Surprise. She is a part of Key Club and National Honors Society and she’s a peer tutor and announcer for school announcements. This is Ryley’s 4th show at VYT! She was last seen in Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical (Ms. Square), Shrek the Musical (Ensemble), and A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail (Tigger). She was in 13 the Musical (Carrie) at Desert Stages Theatre, and Les Misérables (Ensemble) at TheaterWorks. Ryley is interested in marketing and being an entrepreneur.
If you could live forever, would you?
WELL WISHES Graham we are so proud of all of your hard work! Love you! Andy, You bring us everlasting joy! Have fun as Miles! ~ M&D
Alexander, Our love for you is eternal. Break a leg!
Luca, You never cease to amaze us! Congratulations on your theatre debut! We love you so much! ~ Love Dad, Mom, and Gaby
Lainey, Watching you follow your passion fills our hearts! All the best to the cast & crew! Break a leg, Erin! -The Schumachers
From June 14 through 30, 2019, Freak Brothers Pizza will donate 15 percent of all sales (pre-tax) to Valley Youth Theatre when customers mention Valley Youth Theatre or Freaky Friday. They are open 7 days a week at The Churchill project in Downtown Phoenix. 901 N. 1st Street, Suite 103, Phoenix, AZ 85004, 602.354.7723 www.freakbrotherspizza.com
SPONSOR-A-SEAT DO YOU WANT TO HELP A CHILD EXPERIENCE THEATRE FOR THE FIRST TIME? Sponsor-a-Seat allows disadvantaged children from dozens of social service organizations to attend a free VYT performance at the Herberger Theater Center and enjoy a complimentary lunch with the cast and crew. Last season, 1,265 children enjoyed a complimentary Sponsor-a-Seat performance of Annie. To contribute to this program, go to www.vyt.com/ support and make a tax-deductible donation.
Designers AND Guest Artists Dori Brown (Scenic Designer) Dori is pleased to be working with Valley Youth Theatre for another season. Her recent designs include scenery for Madagascar, Polkadots: The Cool Kid Musical and the Hobbit with VYT, scenery for Seussical the Musical Jr and Beauty and the Computer Geek with EVCT, lighting for Sense & Sensibility with Southwest Shakespeare Co. and scenery for Little Prince, Christmas Carol and Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde with Theater Works. An extra special thanks to her husband and children for their continued love and support. Jeff A. Davis (Lighting Design) Jeff has been active in the live entertainment industry for 13 years designing lighting and programming shows all over the world, including the World Fair in Yeosu, Korea. Some local companies include: Theaterworks, Hale Centre Theatre, Stray Cat Theatre, Arizona Broadway Theatre, Black Theatre Troupe, Showtune Productions, Silver Star Theater, and Celebrity Dance Competitions. Additionally, he has worked on the national touring productions of Footloose (2008-09), The Wedding Singer (2009-10), All Shook Up (2010-11), and BLaST! (2011-2012) where he served as Head Electrician and Moving Light Programmer. Jeff designs exclusively for DAVIS, an Arizona Design & Consultation company, founded by Jeff himself. Brian Honsberger (Sound Design) Brian Honsberger is an active Sound Designer and Audio Engineer throughout Arizona. Mr. Honsberger is the owner of UPstage Consulting Group (www.UPstageGroup. com), a company providing Audio and Lighting production services for events and venue installations throughout the Southwest. His sound design credits include over 50 productions within the state and his work has been nominated for several AriZoni Theatre Excellence Awards. Mr. Honsberger is thrilled to be returning to Valley Youth Theatre in the role of Sound Designer. His favorite previous VYT productions have included Newsies, Annie, Peter Pan, and Seussical the Musical to name a few. In addition to his Sound Design work, Brian and his wife Katarzyna own and operate Kat’s Artist Tree, a Music, Dance, and Arts Academy located in Goodyear, AZ (www.KatsArtistTree.com.)
COME ENJOY ONE OF OUR AMAZING COFFEE DRINKS ON US. JUST BRING THIS PLAYBILL TO THE LARRY!
We are located in Phoenix’s fantastic Warehouse District, in the shadow of Chase Field. Arrive for the coffee, breakfast, lunch and more, leave with the memory! We are proud to partner with Valley Youth Theatre; thanks to this amazing group for all you do for our community!!! ~The Larry The Larry • 515 E Grant Street, Phoenix, AZ 85004 • www.ConceptuallySocial.com
Designers AND Guest Artists Tristan Peterson-Steinert (Music Director) A native of rural Maine, Tristan Peterson-Steinert has called Phoenix home for more than a decade. He previously directed music for VYT’s productions of Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical, A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail and Little Women. An accomplished pianist, he is frequently sought as a music director and accompanist in the Valley, and his credits span regional, professional, and community theater. Some favorite credits include: Disenchanted, The Secret Garden (NYA Award, Outstanding Musical Direction), The Little Mermaid, Scrooge in Rouge (AZ Premiere), Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Little Shop of Horrors, and Sunday in the Park with George. He was previously the Music Director in the Theater Department at Arizona School for the Arts, where he music directed the performance ensembles and musical theater courses. In addition, he is the resident Keyboardist at North Valley Community Church and maintains a regular performance schedule as a pianist. He is also a visiting music director at Festival 56, in Princeton, IL.
Nathalie Velasquez (Choreographer) Nathalie Velasquez, a Chicago native was raised in Arizona where she studied dance, voice and piano for 20 years. Some of her larger credits include Miss Teen World 2007 in Phoenix, AZ, televised Miss Hawaii Teen America 2007 in Honolulu, HI, and the Miss Teen World 2008 in Las Vegas, NV as Show Director & Choreographer. From an early age, Nathalie has been active in her community, volunteering for elderly homes and using her talents in dance and music to inspire and lead others. In 2003, Nathalie co-founded the Filipino-American Youth Association (FAYA). She served as President (2007-2009) and is currently an Advisor & Artistic Director. One of Nathalie’s biggest achievements in FAYA was producing and directing its annual benefit show, iRock the Beat to raise funds for international natural disasters and local charities and has helped raised over $10,000 in donations since 2009. Nathalie started her business Dancewear and Little Things by Nathalie & Co. in 2011. She was award Outstanding Young Filipino-American Entrepreneur of the Year 2014 by the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Arizona. When Nathalie isn’t helping on stage or volunteering you can find her managing her small business at the Shops at Norterra in the North Phoenix.
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VYT BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2018-19 Officers Joe Chandler, Chair............................................................................ Sherman & Howard, L.L.C. Patrick Vance, Vice Chair.....................................................................................American Funds Peter McNamara, Treasurer............................................................ Veritas Technologies, L.L.C. Erin Huston, Secretary........................................................................................................KPMG Bobb Cooper, Producing Artistic Director................................................... Valley Youth Theatre
Members Joy Anderson............................................................................................................. Dyslexia Pros Catheryn J. Avalos...................................................................................................Zions Bancorp Linda Burnham......................................................................................................... Dignity Health David Carruth........................................................................................................... Edward Jones Sara Dial.............................................................................................. Sara Dial & Associates, Inc. Brian Etheridge .............................................................................................Freeport McMoRan John Fetherston........................................................................................................ Veridus, L.L.C. Megan Fischer.................................................................................................Klein Thomas Law Colleen Gautam.............................................................................. Valley of the Sun United Way Chad Guzman...................................................................................................................... APS Christopher Houk............................................................. Gillespie, Shields, Durrant & Goldfarb Danny Inglese .........................................................................................................Snell & Wilmer Vince Kozar......................................................................................................Arena Sports Group Dilek Marsh...........................................................................................Grand Canyon University Jennifer Pescatore.................................................................................................Bank of Arizona Gina Salazar Hook.............................................................................................3TV KTVK AZFAMILY Laura M. Stover................................................................................. Nearhood Law Offices, P.L.C. George Weathers......................................................................................................... Mobile Mini
Ex-officio William V. Andrew, PhD................................................................................Grand Ventures, L.L.C. Laurie Bagley......................................................................................... Strategic Wealth Advisors Holly Curtis...............................................................................................Independent Consultant Peggy Fiandaca...........................................................................................................LDV Winery Jennifer Holsman Tetreault...................................................................................................... ASU Frank McCune.........................................................................................................City of Phoenix Lorna Pederson............................................................................................... Community Leader Neil Rao........................................................................................................................Merrill Lynch
Founding Board Chair/Chair Emeritus Hope H. Ozer..............................................................................Phoenix Manhattan Group, L.L.C.
If you are interested in learning more about the VYT Board of Directors, or would like to apply for consideration to become a member, please contact Suzie Martin at 602.253.8188 x303 or via email at suzie@vyt.com.
ADC MEMBERS
Encore! H $5,000 Anonymous
Bravo! H $2,500 David Carruth Bobb and Karol Cooper Steve and Debbie Zell
Applause! H $1,000 Anonymous Colleen Black Judith Bowling Brian & Jessica Etheridge Thomas & Beverly Huff Scott & Cheryl Kriegshauser Suzie Martin Nihaal & Deepa Rao Susan Smith APPLAUSE Level includes a Season Membership package for two, plus two additional tickets & more BRAVO Level includes a Season Membership package for six, plus two additional tickets & more ENCORE Level includes a Season Membership package for eight, plus two additional tickets & more
This special group of individual donors not only makes a financial contribution that helps young people be the best they can be, they are also involved with and connected to other arts enthusiasts. For more information about the ADC, contact the VYT Development Department at 602.253.8188 x304 or email Development@vyt.com.
SEASON 2018-2019 DONORS *At time of printing
MARQUEE $50,000+
BILLIE JO & JUDD HERBERGER CHOREOGRAPHER $10,000 TO $24,999
Anonymous • Doug & Gwen Parker CAST $5,000 TO $9,999
David Carruth • Pam Kirby • Dan & Ann Nahom Torosian Foundation • Twiford Foundation CREW $2,500 TO $4,999
Robert & Catheryn Avalos • Joe & Traci Chandler • Bobb & Karol Cooper • Patrick & Sara Dial Edward Gaylord II • Dr Robert R McCulloch & Mrs Camerone Parker McCulloch • Jay & Hope Ozer Anthony & Jennifer Pescatore • Steve & Deborah Zell • Patrick & Amy Vance • George Weathers VYT is funded in part by
The official hotel of VYT.
Program delivery partner for VYT.
SEASON 2018-2019 DONORS *At time of printing
ORCHESTRA $1,000–$2,499 Arizona Air Boutique Colleen Black Judith Bowling Jeromy & Tammy Brink Dignity Health Leo & Jan Dressel Ed & Rachel Drummond Brian & Jessica Etheridge Tom & Andrea Evans Executive Council Charities Mark & Tory Fearey Fidelity Investments The Foresight Companies Scott Holmes Tom & Beverly Huff Scott & Cheryl Kriegshauser Jeff & Dilek Marsh Suzie Martin Peter & Lisa McNamara Darien Oien Courtney Ozer Lorna Pederson Peoria Diamond Club Pescatore Cooper Pono Construction Katherine Rawling Adam Rice Scottsdale League for the Arts Jeff & Crystal Scudder Howard & Tamera Shanker Susan Smith Sundt Foundation Paul & Rebecca Tufano The Thunderbirds
SUPPORTER $500–$999 John & Laurie Bagley Engelman Berger Meg Burke Kathleen Chaffee Mark & Katie Cosmas Heather Dziedzic Keith & Dana Gapusan Sue Glawe Go Daddy Heidi’s Events & Catering Casey & Erin Huston
Douglas Jorden Chad & Natalie Lahr Trisha Larson Matt Madonna Phillip & Tracy McKenzie Joe Mildenhall Leonard & Britta Pritchett Ramiro G Peru Charitable Fund Bill & Janet Richards John & Mary Beth Snider John Stover Laura Stover Sean Sweat Greg & Rachel Thornton The Wingardium Project William & Mary Singer Foundation Lindsey Williams Mike & Susan Wissink
PATRON $250–$499 Matt & Marnie Ahillen Chris & Christy Anderson Nathan & Joy Anderson Dennis Ford & Kristen Atwell-Ford Ken & Deb Bacorn Kate Baker Steven Berghoff Jerry & Robyn Bien-Willner Will & Charlene Bisson Judith Brooks Stacy & Linda Burnham Kellie Busby Michelle Caskey Cigna Armando & Norma Contreras Mary Contreras Jim & Dawn Craft George Dennis Russell & Erika Dickey Court & Meghan Fable Peter Faur Abbas & Valerie Fazel John & Erica Fetherston Larry & Ashley Forsythe Cristina Sanchez Garcia Noah Ginter Robert Gomez Benjamin & Shannon Grasso
Monte & Heidi Guest Chad Guzman Christine Hammerle Mary Hamway Arthur & Kathryn Hanke Ryan & Kerstin Harper Patrick Heigl Robert & Helen Hollands Kris Houser Danny & Kimberly Inglese Laurie Kahn Sandy Kravetz Jeff Kulaga Steve & Barbara Kaplan Greg & Peggi LaMonica David & Barbara Long Christopher Lines & Mona Mellegard Randy Michel Gary & Elizabeth Minarich Paul Newman Christopher Payne Susan Perkins Jeremiah & Katrina Popelier Barbara Ralston Mike & Judy Rex Cynthia Ricketts Brian & Stephanie Rose Barbara Ruga Michael & Donalee Sarda Bert Saveriano Jeff & Nicole Schenk Aaron & Cie Scott Sean Valcamp & Leslie Shenton Mark & Heidi Snyders Susan Stein Patrick & Patti Stoner Berney Streed Michael & Bonnie Surguine Meryl Thomas Omar & Suzanne Trevino Kelly Welty Jesse Winters
LITERACY AND THE ARTS Andrew Family Foundation Anonymous Applied Materials Arizona Lottery Catheryn Avalos
Capital Group Executive Council Charities Go Daddy Jeff Kulaga The Molly Blank Fund Ruth Anne Myers Peoria Diamond Club Susan Perkins Jennifer Pescatore Charisse Richards Joanne Richman Scottsdale League for the Arts Season for Sharing Sundt Foundation Twiford Foundation Wells Fargo Foundation
IN-KIND Alexi’s Grill & Catering Avant-Garde Floral Design Studio Chambers City of Phoenix CITYSunTimes Conceptually Social Dan Arends Frank Diaz Photography Freak Brothers Pizza Galvanize GBS Books Grimaldi’s Hava Java Helio Basin Brewing Company Lavidge Mama’s Dogs Memories by Candace New York Pizza Dept. NOMaste Baking Co. Nothing Bundt Cake Oh Sugar! Event Design + Paperie ON Media Panera Bread Pati’s Rum Cakes Portillo’s Rollover Doughnuts Santa Barbara Catering Subway Terra Beautanicals Tom & Lin Catering Vektor Vodka Vienna Beef
The Nigel Ross Scholarship Fund To commemorate the special talents and unique spirit of VYTKid Nigel Ross, a victim of domestic violence, VYT and United Surgical Partners International have created the Nigel Ross Scholarship Fund. A natural leader with an infectious smile, Nigel loved acting, singing and dancing – talents that were recognized by his securing the lead role in our production of “Aladdin.” Not only did VYT’s annual summer camps offer Nigel a place to hone his craft and feel accepted and inspired, they afforded him a temporary respite from the hardships he endured at home. To help children like Nigel participate in the camps he loved so much, visit www.vyt.com and select “Nigel Ross Scholarship Fund.” Donations will be gratefully accepted as one-time contributions or on an ongoing monthly basis.
OTHER WAYS TO SUPPORT VYT T OF R A P BE Friday, May 17, 2019 7:00 am Shotgun Start
Win a Lincoln Black Label Vehicle from Arizona’s Exclusive Black Label Dealer
in our Hole-in-One Competition
Details: www.VYT.com | 602.253.8188 x 304
ENRO LL
Saturday, August 17, 2019
SMILE & SHOP!
in Fry's Community Rewards program by signing up with your V.I.P Card and selecting Valley Youth Theatre SHOP ON AMAZON SMILE and select Valley Youth Theatre as your charity of choice
For more information about these and other programs, contact Debb@vyt.com
Last Season, 283 people volunteered 5,683 hours to help make VYT magic happen!!! We offer volunteers of all ages the opportunity to experience a myriad of behind-the-scenes elements that go into producing live theatre. With our limited staff and prudent cost controls, VYT always needs volunteers to help us create the magic of our theatre. Here are just some of the areas in which we always need assistance:
Props Flier Distribution Backstage Box Office Cleaning Concessions Costume Sewing Data Entry
Graphic Design Handymen Load-in Mailings Musicians Painting
Running Crew Set Construction Sound Spotlight Operations Strike Teacher Assistants Ushering
Our volunteers are making a difference and impacting the lives of thousands of youth. If you are interested in volunteering for VYT, contact Anna at boxoffice@vyt.com.
INTERNSHIPS As a nationally renowned and locally respected midsize non-profit organization, VYT is managed by a group of experienced professionals, each an expert in their respective fields. We are also advised by a Board of Directors comprised of business and community leaders, from a vast array of industries, who are passionate about our mission and roll up their sleeves to help us achieve the vision for VYT. That means our theatre is run like most successful for-profit businesses. All operations, development, marketing and finance functions are conducted professionally and efficiently. It also means that our productions are spectacular, our programs are impactful and our theatre is a wonderful place to work! This provides an ideal opportunity for students to experience big business practices within the framework of a fun, lively and never-boring local performing arts provider. If you or someone you know is interested in an internship with VYT, please contact our General Manager at tiffany@vyt. com. Please include your resume and all areas in which you are interested in working.
If you know a child who is a little magic in the making, connect with us today! Visit www.vyt.com or call (602) 253-8188 x 302.
ARIZONA PREMIERE!
BOOK BY
BRIDGET CARPENTER
MUSIC BY
TOM KITT
LYRICS BY
BRIAN YORKEY
BASED ON THE NOVEL BY
MARY RODGERS
June 14-30, 2019
Presented at The Herberger Theater • 222 E. Monroe Street For Tickets: 602.252.8497 or www.herbergertheater.org Tickets are only $9!!
SPECIAL DAYTIME PERFORMANCES SPECIFICALLY FOR SCHOOL AND CAMP GROUPS OF 20 OR MORE.
Shows remaining: 10:00 am on Wednesday, June 19, and 12:30 pm on Thursday, June 20, Friday, June 21 & Tuesday, June 25 Book with Education at (602) 253-8188 x302 or education@vyt.com.
Since 1989, VYT has made an impact on hundreds of thousands of children and their families through performances, workshops, showcases and youth development programs. Representing all socio-economic backgrounds, we allow them to act, dance and sing in a safe setting. There are never fees, charges for costumes or ticket sales quotas for them to meet, just the hope that they will become the best they can be.
Mission
To inspire young people to be the best that they can be through a wide variety of performing arts opportunities.
Our Vision
We are a safe place where young people from diverse backgrounds can learn and grow as individuals, performers and leaders through a transformational performing arts experience. VYT is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Your contribution to VYT is 100% tax-deductible. Please know that your financial support ensures that the mission we began 30 years ago, and the impact that we have made on the lives of thousands of young people, will continue and thrive. The proof of our impact is in the profiles of the young people who have gone on to become our community’s leaders – lawyers, doctors, business professionals, police officers – and, yes, our nation’s actors, actresses, singers and writers. When you support Valley Youth Theatre, you become part of the VYT family. YOU can share the credit for the difference we’ve made in the lives of the outstanding children who come through our doors. Please help us provide our community’s youth with the opportunity to “be the very best they can be!”
VALLEY YOUTH THEATRE STAFF Bobb Cooper.....................................................................................Producing Artistic Director Karol Cooper.................................................................................. Resident Costume Designer Mark Fearey.......................................................................................Resident Music Supervisor Suzie Martin................................................................................................... Managing Director Debra Bacorn.......................................................................................Director of Development Renee Bioletto....................................................................................... Costume Shop Assistant Matt Brown....................................................................................................... Technical Director *Joycelin Jacobs-Schwartz........................................................... Production Stage Manager Tiffany Owen....................................................................................................General Manager Kris Romero....................................................................................Audience Services Manager Cozette Phifer...........................................................Director of Marketing & Communications Carolyn Marie Wright.......................................................... Director of Education & Outreach *Denotes VYT Alumni
VALLEY YOUTH THEATRE STAFF BIOS Bobb Cooper (Producing Artistic Director) is in his 24th year at VYT. Under his direction and leadership, it has become a respected, professional-level theatre company where thousands of young people experience the magic of live theatre. Since 1996, Bobb has received numerous awards for his work as a director and garnered several for the theater itself including Arts Organization of the Year. Bobb’s recognition includes: the 2013 Dreamr Award for public sector/nonprofit, being named one of the Valley’s Most Influential business leaders and 40 Under 40 by the Phoenix Business Journal, and Arts Advocate of the Year by the Greater Phoenix Arts & Business Council. His professional affiliations include Valley Leadership Class 33, Organization for Nonprofit Executives, Phoenix Community Alliance and The Screen Actors Guild member since 1985. Bobb has been married for 29 years to his beautiful wife, Karol, and has one daughter, Channing. Karol Cooper (Resident Costume Designer) is in her 23rd year with VYT. She began her career as a professional clown and costume designer in Sherman Oaks, CA. “Bobbo & Kookee” performed for A-List celebrities and numerous Royal Families. She moved to Phoenix in 1995 and became the Resident Costume Designer for Valley Youth Theatre. During her first 9 years at VYT, she won 12 ariZoni awards for Costume Design and 10 ariZoni awards for Hair & Make-up. She has also won numerous National Youth Awards (NYA) for Outstanding Costume Design. For the 2015 Broadway World Phoenix Awards, she won Best Costume Design for a youth production for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Karol designed at the New Amsterdam Theatre for the Broadway cast of La Cage Aux Folles performing in Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids. She believes that research, attention to detail and the love of storytelling through color and texture is essential to a solid overall design.
VALLEY YOUTH THEATRE STAFF BIOS Mark Fearey (Resident Music Supervisor) is in his 23rd season with VYT and over those years has garnered numerous awards (ariZoni and NYA) and has music directed the Arizona premiere of a few shows. Some of his favorite shows to have been a part of are West Side Story, Titanic, Aida, Shrek, Legally Blonde and The Little Mermaid. In addition to his work at VYT, he is the full-time faculty accompanist/coach and music director at Grand Canyon University. He came to the world of children’s theatre with a Masters of Music in Piano Performance (with an emphasis in accompanying) from ASU and a degree in Piano Performance from the D’Angelo School of Music at Mercyhurst University in Erie, PA. He has worked with vocal and instrumental artists in Germany, Austria, New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and throughout the Southwest. In addition to all the great kids at VYT he has also worked with opera singer Amber Wagner and country recording artist Chris Young. And if that’s not enough, he spent the last 24 years as music director for Abiding Savior Lutheran Church and is vocal coordinator/pianist for the Arizona Young Artist Competition at the Herberger Theater Center and visiting music director for Quisisana Music on the Lake in Maine. He is married to his wonderful wife Tory and they are the proud parents of the veteran stage performer Olivia! Suzie Martin (Managing Director) has lived in the Valley of the Sun most of her life. After graduating from the University of Oklahoma, she spent the first several years of her career as a CPA working in the audit division of international accounting firms. She specialized in notfor-profit, government and hospitality audits. Suzie then returned to school and became a Licensed Master Social Worker. She has utilized her business and social work skills at various not-for-profit agencies serving families and children in the Phoenix area. She has professional experience in the areas of child welfare, developmental disabilities, domestic violence, homelessness, substance abuse and mental health. She enjoys traveling, football, cooking and spending time with her family and friends. Debra Bacorn (Director of Development) comes to VYT with experience from Illinois’ largest agency serving families of domestic violence and sexual assault. As a recent transplant to the Valley, Deb spearheads VYT’s development efforts, including fundraising creation, collaboration and grant writing. She is responsible for VYT’s strategies in major gift giving, alumni giving, and individual planned giving. Deb graduated from Lewis University in the Chicago area and spent several years in the corporate arena prior to leaping into the not-for-profit world. Deb moved to the Valley with her husband Ken, son Eric and cat, Mella. Matt Brown (Technical Director) is excited to have joined Valley Youth Theatre last season. Originally from Texas, he has been living in the Valley of the Sun for the past 11 years. He and his wife are the proud parents of two-year-old Max and newborn Luke. Matt has a degree in Theatre with an emphasis in technical theatre from Angelo State University. He has worked at Childsplay and most recently at Phoenix Theatre. Luckily for him, one of his favorite hobbies is his job, but he also enjoys running long distances in the desert mountains around our beautiful state.
VALLEY YOUTH THEATRE STAFF BIOS Joycelin Jacobs-Schwartz (Production Stage Manager & Props Designer) has been doing theatre around the valley for over 15 years, being both on and back stage. Favorite stage managing credits include: Death Bite (Theatre Artists Studio), Accomplice (Theatre Artists Studio), Madagascar (VYT), and Newsies (VYT). Joycelin has her BA in Theatre from ASU. She would like to thank her parents for their unconditional support and love on this amazing adventure we call theatre. Tiffany Owen (General Manager) is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh with a BA in Theatre and a BS in Psychology who worked as a freelance stage manager and theatre technician across the Valley after moving to Tempe in 2007. Some of her favorite credits include: Into the Woods (VYT), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (SWS), Peacemaker (PT), Complete Works of William Shakespeare [Abridged] (SWS), Rashomon (Pitt Rep), and running spot for Pen & Teller at the MAC. After two years as VYT’s Production Stage Manager, she transitioned to the administrative side of this incredible company inspiring young people to always be the best they can be. She thanks Bobb for being so supportive and finding a new way to utilize her skills, and her loving husband for never questioning her love and passion for theatre. Let’s make the magic! Cozette Phifer (Director of Marketing & Communications) is originally from Phoenix. Her 30-year Marketing career has allowed her to live in Detroit, Seattle, Washington D.C. and San Diego. She has managed marketing and communications for brands that include PETsMART, Domino’s Pizza, Eddie Bauer, Sony Electronics, Jenny Craig, Johnny Rockets and Swift Transportation. She serves as an ally to Phoenix’s LGBTQIA2 community and volunteers her time to related organizations. Kris Romero (Audience Services Manager) is a Phoenix native, who grew up in the West Valley. He comes to VYT with fifteen years of corporate and management experience, mostly in the banking industry. He is also involved in local community events and is an avid musical theatre fan. His favorite musicals are Rent and Funny Girl. Kris is thrilled to join the VYTeam and to work directly with our volunteers, parents and patrons, as well as being a contributing member of the Phoenix arts community. Carolyn Marie Wright (Director of Education & Outreach) is grateful to be part of “the magic that is…” Valley Youth Theatre where she has the privilege to teach performing arts year-round and direct (most recently The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane). Previous clients include: Geffen Playhouse; Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum; The Second City; UCLA School of Theatre, Film & Television; Chicago Kids Company; MCC Theatre; New Victory Theatre; and Yale Children’s Theatre. Professional highlights: #Right2Recess with Humanity Play Project (winner Best Children’s Show at NoHo Fringe Festival 2017); Topanga Rose (nominated Best Faith Film at Burbank Film Festival 2016); Wini + George with Katharine Ross (winner Audience Award at LA OutFest 2013); The Best of Second City; This is Not a Tan and There Will Be Snacks at Comedy Central Stage; and BioShock video game. Training: Yale (BA Theatre Studies); NYU Steinhardt (MA Educational Theatre); and UCLA (MFA Acting). Proud member of AEA, SAG-AFTRA, and AATE.
LAST SEASON 38
58 Musicians Performed In Our Orchestras
179 Veterans And Their Families Received Complimentary Tickets To A Performance
Crew Members Made Our Shows Happen
124
174 Campers Enjoyed Spring And Summer Camps
691 Hopekids Received Complimentary Tickets To Our Dress Rehearsals
Total Performances Were Presented
3,364
546 Young People Auditioned For Roles
3,755 Students From Title 1 Schools Benefitted From Our Literacy And The Arts Program
Students Saw A Show For Our Reduced Field Trip Price
1,265
414
Children Enjoyed A Complimentary Sponsor-A-Seat Performance Of Annie
283 People Volunteered Their Time To Assist VYT
Young People Participated In Our Fall, Winter And Spring Workshops
29,224 People Enjoyed Our Productions
161 Total Actors Appeared On Stage
5,683 Volunteer Hours Were Donated To VYT
Intern Hours Were Contributed To VYT