Valley Youth Theatre Presents Disney's Freaky Friday - June 14 - 30, 2019

Producing Artistic Director BOBB COOPER MUSIC BY presents

BOOK BY

LYRICS BY

TOM KITT

BRIDGET CARPENTER

BRIAN YORKEY

BASED ON THE NOVEL FREAKY FRIDAY BY

MARY RODGERS AND THE DISNEY FILMS

SPONSORED BY SPONSORED IN PART BY

MUSIC BY MUSIC BY

BOOK BY BOOK BY

TOM KITT TOM KITT

BRIDGET CARPENTER BRIDGET CARPENTER BOOK BY BOOK BY

BASED ON THE NOVEL FREAKY FRIDAY BY MUSIC

BY BY BASED ON THEMUSIC NOVELBYFREAKY FRIDAY

MARY RODGERS TOM KITT TOM KITT BRIDGET CARPENTER MARY BRIDGET CARPENTER AND THERODGERS DISNEY FILMS AND THE DISNEY FILMS

LYRICS BY LYRICS BY

BRIAN YORKEY BRIAN YORKEY LYRICS BY LYRICS BY

YORKEY BRIANBRIAN YORKEY

BASED ON FREAKY THE NOVEL FREAKY BASED ON THE NOVEL FRIDAY

BY FRIDAY BY

Orchestrations

by MICHAEL STA ROBIN & TOM KITT MARY RODGERS MARY RODGERS SPONSORED BYDISNEY AND THE DISNEY FILMS AND THE FILMS Vocal Arrangements SPONSORED BY by CARMEL DEAN & TOM KITT SPONSORED IN PART BY Dance Arrangements & Incidental Music by TOM KITT SPONSORED IN PART BY BY SPONSOREDSPONSORED BY SPONSORED SPONSORED IN PART BY IN PART BY

Director BOBB COOPER Choreographer NATHALIE VELASQUEZ Musical Supervisor & Director MARK FEAREY Costume Designer KAROL COOPER Scenic Designer DORI BROWN Sound Designer BRIAN HONSBERGER Lighting Designer JEFF A. DAVIS Production Stage Manager JOYCELIN JACOBS-SCHWARTZ Freaky Friday is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019, Phone: 212-541-4684 Fax: 212-397-4684 www.MTIShows.com THE VIDEOTAPING OR OTHER VIDEO OR AUDIO RECORDING OF THIS PRODUCTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.

CAST OF CHARACTERS (In alphabetical order) Allie Angus..............................................................................................................................Student Ensemble Alexis Archer........................................................................................................................................ Savannah Allison Belsan.............................................................................Adult Ensemble / Savannah’s Mom / Waiter Ryan Breuer............................................................................................................................Student Ensemble Kate Brink........................................................................................................................................................ Ellie Mackenzie Burcham..................................................................................... Adult Ensemble / Waiter / Mom Dominic Cardenas.......................................................................................... Student Ensemble / Adult Dad Ava Chaffee............................................................................................................. Student Ensemble / Laural David Devine........................................................................................................................................... Dr. Ehrin Jessica Fink.......................................................................................................................... Torrey / Adult Mom Shaylee Flanagan....................................................................................................Student Ensemble / Mom Sam Goodykoontz......................................................... Adult Ensemble / Wells Dad / Guard / Fish Vendor Preston Kersting......................................................................................................... Student Ensemble / Louis Stephanie Larson..................................................................................Student Ensemble / Gretchen’s Mom Max Mendoza............................................................................................................................................ Parker Kylie Merrill............................................................................................................................................ Gretchen Anna Mettes............................................................................................................................................Hannah Rachel Nathan............................................................................................... Adult Ensemble / Waiter / Mom Amelia Oliver.........................................................................................................................Savannah’s Friend Anastasia Rai................................................................................................................... Danielle / Ms. Meyers Carson Roubison............................................................. Adult Ensemble / Waiter / Officer Kowalski / Dad Paige Maren Schmella.........................................................................................................Student Ensemble Jaden Schneider.......................................................................................................................................... Wells Erin Deines Schumacher.......................................................................................................Student Ensemble Noah Simmons.......................................................................................................................Student Ensemble Prescott Smidt.......................................................... Adult Ensemble / Mr. Blumen / Hannah’s Dad / Waiter Olivia Smith.........................................................................Adult Ensemble / Mrs. Luckenbill / Florist / Mom Asher Stubbs............................................................................................................................................ Fletcher Riley Thornton............................................................................................................................................. Adam Justin Vaught..........................................................................................................................Student Ensemble Jessica Wastchak..................................................................................................................Savannah’s Friend Ryley Youngs..............................................................................Adult Ensemble / Officer Sitz / Mom / Waiter

GUEST ARTISTS Sarah Ambrose.......................................................................................................................... Katherine Blake Chris Bradford................................................................................................................................................Mike Bennett Wood...................................................................................................... Senor O’Brien / Pastor Bruno Molly Jisa .......................................................................................................... Grandma Helene / Mrs. Time Mick Fink................................................................................................................................ Grandpa Gordon

ORCHESTRA (At Time of Printing) Keyboard 1/Conductor.............................................................................................. Tristan Peterson-Steinert Violin...................................................... Harrison Newton, Sophia Ream, Danielle Brister, Anna Jakubczyk Cello................................................................................................................Zachary Mohler, Cailet Popelier Bass............................................................................................................ Cameron Bertolet, Carolyn Ogden Reed............................................................................................................................................... Cassi Bussma Trumpet...............................................................................................................Mike Downey, Jerry Youhanie Keyboard 2........................................................................................................Trevor Bourland, Daniel Sutton Guitar.............................................................................................................................................. Isaac Brodkin Drums..................................................................................................................................... Alexander Mohler

PRODUCTION STAFF (At Time of Printing) Director...........................................................................................................................................Bobb Cooper Music Director.................................................................................................................................Mark Fearey Choreographer................................................................................................................... Nathalie Velasquez Costume Designer........................................................................................................................ Karol Cooper Scenic Designer................................................................................................................................. Dori Brown Sound Designer...................................................................................................................... Brian Honsberger Lighting Designer............................................................................................................................. Jeff A. Davis Orchestra Conductor ................................................................................................. Tristan Peterson-Steinert Technical Director............................................................................................................................. Matt Brown Prop Designer.........................................................................................................Joycelin Jacobs-Schwartz* Production Stage Manager..................................................................................Joycelin Jacobs-Schwartz* Assistant Stage Manager.................................................................................................................Niki Brown* Hair & Makeup Designer.............................................................................................................. Karol Cooper Costume Shop Assistant..............................................................................................................Renee Bioletto Guest Stitcher............................................................................................................................. Gretchen Fyffe* Wardrobe Intern....................................................................................................................................Paige Hill Deck Manager..................................................................................................................................Grace Bush Tech Crew..................................................................................Kate Daley*, Gabby Grasso*, Cody Kellen* Spotlight Operator........................................................................................................................Rozie Rafacz* *Denotes VYT Alumni

HERBERGER THEATER CENTER STAFF President & CEO.............................................................................................................................. Mark Mettes Director of Development & Marketing..................................................................................... Laurene Austin Administrative Assistant........................................................................................................... Martha Carrano Director of Event Services.......................................................................................................... Tami Updegraff Box Office Services Manager...................................................................................................... Lucas Cullum Arts Education & Outreach Director............................................................................................Judy Rollings Accounting Manager.................................................................................................................... Connie Frost Senior Production Supervisor.......................................................................................................... Greta Haug Booking & Events Coordinator...............................................................................................Shannon O’Hara Marketing Manager.................................................................................................................. Mark Mettes, Jr. Coordinator of Volunteer Resources......................................................................................Drew Templeton Arts Education & Outreach Associate..................................................................................... Mary Robinson Bus Wrangler/Intern......................................................................................................................Andreya Kelly Audio Console Operator..............................................................................................Billy Lopez, Leila Taylor Lighting Console Operators............................................................................. Joanna Emmott, Cody Soper Ticketing Representatives..................................................Elle Broeder, Dylean Bustamante, Brittney Coon, Robby Dollahan, Sophie Podolak, Carolyn Spencer Patron Services Manager Administrator.........................................................................................Erin Pauley Patron Services Managers.........................................................Beth King, Michele Robins, Mary Robinson, Drew Templeton, Edith Terpstra, Susan Thomas Reception Services Managers..................................... Crissy Engle, Anthony Garcia, Leobardo Martinez, Haydehn Tuipulotu

SCENES AND MUSICAL NUMBERS ACT ONE PROLOGUE...................................................................................................... Orchestra Blake House, Kitchen

Just One Day........................................................... Ellie, Katherine, Company

The Hourglass..............................................................................Ellie, Katherine

I Got This.......................................................................................Katherine, Ellie High School, Hallway

I Got This.........................................................Ellie, Adam, Savannah, Students Blake House, Kitchen

What You Got.................................................Katherine, Torrey, Danielle, Louis High School, Biology Lab

Adam’s Theme.......................................................................................Students

Oh, Biology.................................................................................... Ellie, Students Blake House, Kitchen Vows...............................................................................................................Mike High School, Hallway / Blake House, Kitchen Busted....................................................................... Ellie, Katherine, Company High School, Hallway

Adam’s Theme.................................................................................... Katherine

Adam… Adam…...................................................................................Students High School, Counselor’s Office

Somebody Has Got to Take the Blame................... Katherine, Ellie, Dr. Ehrin, Señor O’Brien, Mrs. Luckenbill High School, Hallway

Shoppin’ With My Mom......................................................................... Fletcher Secondhand Mose Adam…Adam…................................................................ (Reprise) Ensemble

I Got This (Reprise) ............................................................................. Katherine High School, Gymnasium

Watch Your Back!.....................................................Ms. Meyers, Ellie, Students

Drivin’ With My Mom.............................................................................. Fletcher Katherine’s Car

Drivin’ With My Mom (Cont’d).............................................................. Fletcher

Parents Lie............................................................................................ Katherine Blake House, Various / Elsewhere

Just One Day (Reprise)...................................................................... Ensemble

SMILE & SHOP!

SHOP ON AMAZON SMILE and select Valley Youth Theatre as your charity of choice

SCENES AND MUSICAL NUMBERS ACT TWO Blake House, Backyard

I’m Not Myself Today................................... Katherine, Ellie, Torrey, Ensemble Bus Stop

Women and Sandwiches..........................................................Adam, Fletcher Blake House, Backyard

Bring My Baby (Brother) Home.......................Ellie, Officers, Katherine, Mike, Adam, Fletcher

Adam’s Theme...................................................Ellie, Officers, Katherine, Mike

Adam… Adam (Reprise 2).....................................................................Voices

Go................................................................ Adam, Ellie, Katherine, Ensemble The Hunt / Blake House, Kitchen

Go (Cont’d)................................................. Adam, Ellie, Katherine, Ensemble Blake House, Living Room

After All of This and Everything.......................................................... Katherine Mrs. Time

No More Fear................................................................................................. Ellie Blake House, Kitchen

Transition to Wedding............................................................................ Fletcher

The Other Hourglass....................................................................Ellie, Katherine

Today and Ev’ry Day..................................................................Ellie, Katherine Blake House, Backyard

Today and Ev’ry Day (Cont’d).............................. Ellie, Katherine, Company EPILOGUE

Today and Ev’ry Day (cont’d).......................................................... Company

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, nearly 1,500 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.

MEET THE CAST Allie Angus (Student Ensemble) is 16 and a sophomore at Desert Mountain where she is involved in the theatre program and dance company, Desert Dance Company.

This is her third VYT show, having previously been in Annie (Star-to-Be) and A Winniethe-Pooh Christmas Tail (Fox). She was also in her school’s production of Chicago (Liz), Greasepaint’s Footloose (Featured Dancer), Addams Family (Wednesday US) and 13 (Patrice US), as well as Theater Works’ Gypsy (Baby June) and Desert Stages’ Spelling Bee (Olive).

Alexis Archer (Savannah) is 14 and in 8th grade at Desert Shadows Middle School, in Scottsdale, where she’s in drama, choir, National Junior Honor Society and student council. This is her first VYT show. She has been in Spotlight Youth Theatre’s 13 (Lucy) and Into the Woods Jr. (Cinderella’s Mother), East Valley Children’s Theatre’s Peter Pan (Mrs. Darling), Beauty and The Computer Geek (Felicity) and King Thrushbeard (Faith) as well as JCC Youth Theatre’s Seussical Jr. (Mayzie La Bird), Hairspray Jr. (Ensemble) and Aladdin Jr. (Jasmine).

Allison Belsan (Adult Ensemble / Savannah’s Mom / Waiter) is 18 and in 12th grade at Valley Vista High, in Surprise, where she is in drama club, show choir and concert choir. This is her first VYT show. She has been in Desert Foothills Theater’s High School Musical (Mrs. Darbus), Shrek (Dragon) and Addams Family (Ancestor), Theatre Works’ The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe (Centaur), Once Upon a Mattress (Ensemble) and Les Misérables (Ensemble) as well as Valley Vista High’s Into The Woods (Baker’s Wife), 9 to 5 (Roz Keith) and Much Ado About Nothing (Hero).

Ryan Breuer (Student Ensemble) is 17 and in 11th grade at Brophy College Preparatory, in Phoenix, where he is a drama club officer and International Thespian Society representative as well as a member of Brophy Honor Choral, Brophy/Xavier Theatre and Brophy Student Theatre. This is his second VYT show, having previously been in Shrek (Young Shrek). He has also been in his school’s productions of Seussical (Cat in The Hat) and Working (Freddie Rodriguez). He’s also on the Phoenix Children’s Hospital’s Teen Board.

Kate Brink (Ellie) is 15 and in 9th grade at Xavier College Preparatory where she participates in drama club and student ambassadors. This is her seventh VYT show. She has also been in our productions of The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane (Lolly/Doll), Madagascar (Kowalski), Alice in Wonderland (Alice), Wizard of Oz (Munchkin), A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail, (Woodland Friend) and Pinkalicious (Butterfly). She was also in Xavier Brophy Theatre’s Seussical (Ensemble).

Mackenzie Burcham (Adult Ensemble / Waiter) is 18 and a Senior who lives in Gilbert. This is her first VYT production. She has been in Casteel HS Theatre Company’s Bye-Bye Birdie (Rosie Alvarez), Once Upon a Mattress (Princess Winifred) and Charlie Brown (Snoopy Understudy). She is in the Praise Team at church and hopes to pursue a career in musical theatre.

Dominic Cardenas (Student Ensemble / Adult Dad) is 16 and a Junior at Arizona School for The Arts. This is his fourth VYT show, having previously been in Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical (Sky Square), Annie (Ensemble) and Little Women (Braxton Prendergast). He is also a member of VYTeens, and has been in Greasepaint’s Urinetown (Senator Fipp) and Aladdin Jr. (Jafar), as well as a wellness PSA for Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Dominic plans to pursue a career in musical theatre.

MEET THE CAST Ava Chaffee (Student Ensemble) is 15 and a Freshman-almost-Sophomore at Xavier College Preparatory, in Phoenix. This is her 5th VYT show. She was in our productions of Madagascar (Steak/Ensemble), Pinkalicious (Bird), Emperor’s New Clothes (Esther) and A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail (Woodland Friend). She has also been in Desert Stages’ 13 (Patrice), Annie (Annie) and Legally Blonde (Viviane), Greasepaint’s Annie (Lily Saint Regis) and Xavier’s Seussical (Ensemble).

David Devine (Dr. Ehrin) This is David’s second production at VYT! He was in this season’s opener, Newsies (Bunsen). He has also been in the Ironwood Community/ Alumni Show You Can’t Take it with You (Tony Kirby) and in Glendale Community College Theatre’s Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap (Christopher Wren). He was also recently seen in Las Angeles for the KCACTF Festival as a partner where one of his scenes made it to final rounds. David is pursuing his acting career full time and is always thankful for opportunities, like this show, to come around!

Jessica Fink (Torrey / Mom) is 16 and in 11th grade in Ahwatukee. This is her second VYT show. Her first was this season’s production of Tuck Everlasting (Mother). She has also been in Dream City Church’s Annie (Star-to-Be/Boylan Sister), Little Mermaid (Addella) and Mary Poppins (Jane Banks). She was also in a Hotel Transylvania promotional video for Nickelodeon/Sony. She studies piano, tap dance, ballet and voice and participates in her church’s youth groups.

Shaylee Flanagan (Student Ensemble / Adult Mom) is 15 and in 9th grade at Campo Verde, in Gilbert, where she’s involved in choir, choir council, drama and Ethnic Student Union. This is her first VYT production. She has been in Limelight Youth Theatre’s Chicago (Matron “Mama” Morton), Lion King (Sarabi) and Sister Act (Cabby), Actors Youth Theatre’s Ghost (Oda Mae Brown) and Christmas Story (Chief Elf) as well as Mesa Community College’s All Shook Up (Lorraine). She plans to pursue theatre as a career.

Sam Goodykoontz (Adult Ensemble / Wells Dad / Guard / Fish Vendor) is 16 and in 10th grade at Tempe Prep. He’s involved in football, wrestling, track, honor choir, drama, Spanish club and his school paper. This is his first show at VYT. At Temp Prep, he’s appeared in The Secret Garden (Major Holmes), Pride & Prejudice (Mr. Collins) and 12 Angry Men (Juror 7). He would like to eventually be a foreign services officer or an actor on Broadway.

Preston Kersting (Luis / Student Ensemble) is 17 and a Junior at Chaparral High School, in Scottsdale. This is his first VYT show. He was in Greasepaint’s Urinetown (Bobby Strong), School of Rock (Dewey Finn) and The Wedding Singer (Robbie Hart).

He was also in his school’s production of Little Shop of Horrors (Orin Scriveno). He likes spending time with friends and playing guitar and piano He wants to eventually work in the film industry, in Hollywood.

Stephanie Larson (Student Ensemble / Gretchen’s Mom) is 19 and an upcoming college sophomore at Arizona State University. She’s in the American Medical Women’s Association and Barrett, The Honors College. This is her 9th VYT show!

She also appeared in our productions of Newsies (Nun / Bowery Beauty), Annie (Ensemble / Boylan Sister), Little Women (Meg), Shrek (Fairy Godmother / Blind Mice), Wizard of Oz (Ensemble), Secret Garden (Alice), Grease (Ensemble) and A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail (Kanga). She was also in Desert Vista Thunder Theatre Company’s Hairspray (Lou Ann).

MEET THE CAST Max Mendoza (Parker) is a 17-year-old Senior at AZ School for the Arts and is utterly exhilarated to be doing his 6th show in VYT! Previous VYT productions include Alice in Wonderland (White Rabbit), Shrek (White Rabbit), and Newsies (Romeo). He has also performed in other youth theaters around the Valley most recently featured in Greasepaint’s production of Urinetown (Hot Blades Harry) and Theaterworks’ production of Elf Jr. (Walter Hobbs). He has a fascination with Space and dreams of becoming an astronaut or an actor. He also wishes for you to always talk out your problems with your parents and to enjoy the show!

Kylie Merrill (Gretchen) is 15 and in 9th grade at Perry High School, in Gilbert. She’s a Community Change Club officer, in JV girls basketball, glee club and advanced women’s choir. This is her second VYT show as she was in this season’s production of Tuck Everlasting (Ensemble). She was also in her school’s production of Shrek (Queen Lilian / Little Red Riding Hood), Actor Youth Theatre’s Annie Jr. (Grace Farrell), The Little Mermaid (Allana) and Hunchback of Notre Dame (Gargoyle / Congregant) as well as Legacy Traditional School - Chandler’s The Little Mermaid Jr. (Ariel), Beauty and the Beast Jr. (Mrs. Potts) and Wizard of Oz Jr. (Glinda).

Anna Mettes (Hannah) is 17 and in 11th grade at Arizona School for the Arts where she’s in National Honor Society and Thespian Society. This is her 6th VYT production. She was also in our productions of Tuck Everlasting (Ensemble / Teen Winnie), Newsies (Bowery Beauty / Nun / Dance Captain), Annie (Annette / Ronnie Boylan / Ensemble), Madagascar (Lynn Lemur / Server / Dance Captain) and Alice in Wonderland (Duchess) and is a member of VYTeens. She was also in her school’s productions of Antigone (Ismene) and 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Marcy Park).

Rachel Nathan (Adult Ensemble / Waiter) is 16 and in 10th grade at Cicero Prep where she’s in drama club. This is her 3rd VYT show. She was in our productions of Madagascar (Zelda / Foosa) and Shrek (Ensemble), Desert Foothills Theatre’s Shrek (Fiona), Morgan Wixon Theatre’s 42nd Street (Ethel) and Greasepaint Theatres Urinetown (Ms. Millennium) as well as Cicero Prep’s The Sound of Music (Maria), Morgan-Wixson Theater’s 42nd Street (Ethel) and Desert Stages Theatre’s 13 (Lucy).

Amelia Oliver (Savannah’s Friend) is 17 and a Junior at Chandler High School, where she’s in Model United Nations, APAC and National Honor Society and is an international Baccalaureate. This is her first VYT show. She has been in her school’s productions of Les Misérables (Cosette) and Into the Woods (Rapunzel) and Mesa Community College’s Little Women (Ensemble). She takes voice lessons, is a NATS Participant, is in the Tufts summer program and National Charity League.

Anastasia Rai (Danielle / Ms. Meyers) is currently a Junior at Westwood High School and is excited to be a part of her second VYT show. Her previous credits include, Gloria in Madagascar a musical adventure at VYT, Valerie Clark in A Chorus Line at NSAA, Ann Kirschner in Letters to Sala at Westwood High, Tracy Atkinson in Billy Elliot at MET and Dynamite in HAIR at NSAA. She’s also a part of VYT’s “VYTeens” Charity performance group and is great full to the cast of Freaky Friday for their incredible talent and hard work and Bobb Cooper for providing her the opportunity to be part of such an amazing ensemble.

MEET THE CAST Carson Roubison (Adult Ensemble / Kowalski / Waiter) is 16 and in 10th grade at Primavera Online High School. This is his 5th VYT show. He’s also been in our productions of Newsies (Morris Delancey), Annie (Ensemble), A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail (Tigger) and on the Tech Crew for Tuck Everlasting. He was also in Westar Elementary School’s production of Guys and Dolls (Sky Masterson). Carson enjoys playing piano, singing, going to art galleries and creating art. He wants to perform on Broadway, one day.

Paige Schmella (Student Ensemble) is 13 and in 7th grade at Trivium Preparatory Academy, where she’s involved in musical theatre and basketball. This is her first VYT show. She’s been in her school’s productions of Broadway Review (Fannie), Peter Pan (Peter Pan) and Willy Wonka, (Oompa Loompa / Dance Soloist) and Spotlight Entertainment’s Legally Blonde (Prisoner), Disney Princess Review (Jasmine) and Teen Beach Movie (Leather). She has also attended summer workshops at Hale Center Theater and Arizona Broadway Theater.

Jaden Schneider (Wells) is 15 and a sophomore at Arete Preparatory Academy, in Gilbert, where he’s involved in cross country. This is his first VYT show. He’s been in East Valley Children’s Theatre’s Seussical Jr. (Mr. Mayor), King Thrushbeard (Reggie), Beauty and the Computer Geek (Spider), Yes Virginia, There’s a Santa Claus (Skinny Santa), OZ! (Guardian), Heroes of Olim (Alfred), Best Christmas Pageant Ever (Father), 67 Cinderellas (Sir Gladwin) and Princess and the Pea (Siphious).

Erin Deines Schumacher (Student Ensemble) is 14 and in 8th grade at Arizona Connections Academy. This is her 2nd VYT show. She was also in this season’s production of Tuck Everlasting (Ensemble). She has also been in 12 Fountain Hills Theater’s productions, including A Christmas Carol: The Musical (Martha Cratchit), Seussical Jr. (Mrs. Mayor), Dear Edwina, Jr. (Mary Sue Betty Bob) and Miss Minnie’s Melodramodeon (Satch) as well as Scottsdale Musical Theater Company’s A Christmas Carol (Ensemble). Erin loves to sing, dance, act and being around so many wonderful people. Erin would like to thank her friends & family for their love & support. Break a Leg cast, orchestra & crew of Freaky Friday.

Noah Simmons (Student Ensemble) is 14 and in 9th grade at Arizona School for the Arts, where he’s in theatre, mock trial and thespians. This is his first VYT show.

He has been in his school’s productions of Antigone (Guard), Hamlet and Zombies (Hamlet), Animal Farm (Squealer), Gretel & Hansel (Tom), Seussical Jr. (Grinch and Vlad Vladikoff), Grim Tales (Hansel and The Hare) as well as ASU Lyric Opera’s Shrek, The Musical (Young Shrek). He’s a football player, a Youth Advocate Institute Council member (Arizona Institute to End Sexual and Domestic Violence) and hopes to be a film actor.

Prescott Smidt (Adult Ensemble / Mr. Blumen / Hannah’s Dad / Waiter) is 15 and a freshman at Arizona School for the Arts, where he’s in Thespian Society. This is his 8th VYT show. Others include Tuck Everlasting (Ensemble), The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane (Father / Watchman / Lucius Clark), A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail 2017 and 2018 (Christopher Robin), Newsies (Bill / Man / Policeman), Annie (Ensemble) and Little Women (Tech Crew). He has also been Assistant Stage Manager for ASA’s HONK! and Ozma of Oz and was in Antigone (Tiresias) as well as Childsplay’s Into the Woods (The Baker), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Willy Wonka), Beauty and the Beast (The Beast) and Mary Poppins (Michael Banks).

MEET THE CAST Olivia Smith (Adult Ensemble / Mrs. Luckenbill / Florist) is 19 and a sophomore at Arizona State University, where she is a Nursing Major and is in Looming with Love.

This is her 5th VYT show. She was also in our productions of Annie (Grace) for which she won an NYA, Shrek (Elf / Tapping Rat), Grease (Ensemble) and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Wife / Ensemble). She was also in Desert Vista High School’s productions of Addams Family (Bride) and Hairspray (Shelley), Actor’s Youth Theater’s Hairspray (Brenda) and Ahwatukee Children’s Theatre’s Christmas Carol (Ms. Dilbur), Heathers (Ensemble) and The Wedding Singer (Ensemble).

Asher Stubbs (Fletcher) is 11 and in 5th grade at Monte Vista, in Ahwatukee, where he’s involved in soccer and scouts. This is his 2nd VYT show as he was in this season’s production of The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane (Amos). He loves that his character, Fletcher, is both annoying and loveable and likes the lesson this show teaches about understanding others.

Riley Thornton (Adam) is 15 and in 9th grade at Campo Verde High School, in Gilbert. He is a member of VYTeens and this is his 12th VYT show! He was also in our productions of Tuck Everlasting (Jesse Tuck), Newsies (Crutchie), Little Women (Mr. Laurence), Madagascar (King Julien), Charlotte’s Web (Lurvy), A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail (Eeyore), Alice in Wonderland (King of Hearts), Shrek (Piggy / Knight) and Wizard of Oz (Ensemble). Riley was also on the Tech Crew for this season’s VYT productions of The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane and A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail. He has also performed in Hale Centre Theatre’s Big Fish (Zacky Price) and Greasepaint’s 13 (Rabbi / Ensemble).

Justin Vaught (Student Ensemble) is 17 and goes to Desert Vista High School. He is in VYTeens and this is his 12th VYT production! He has also been in our productions of Tuck Everlasting (Ensemble), Newsies (Sniper), Annie (Ensemble), The Hobbit (Thorin Oakenshield), Shrek (Pied Piper / Ensemble), Wizard of Oz (Flying Monkey), Alice in Wonderland (Knave), Emperor’s New Clothes (Ensemble), Peter Pan (Slightly), Snow White (Scotty) and Seussical (Little Who). He has also been in Hale Centre Theatre’s Christmas Carol (Peter Cratchit) and Desert Vista High School’s Wizard of Oz (Wizard), The Crucible (Reverent Parris) and Addams Family (Ensemble) as well as Plan B Entertainment’s Les Misérables (Gavroche).

Jessica Wastchak (Savannah’s Friend) is 16 and a sophomore at Hamilton High School, in Chandler, where she’s involved in theatre and cross country. This is her 5th VYT show. She was also in our productions of Tuck Everlasting (Mae Tuck), The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane (Old Lady / Society Lady), Shrek (Queen Lillian / Ensemble) and Narnia (Cruelie). She has also been in Greasepaint’s Footloose (Featured Dancer) and AYT’s Ghost (Molly Jensen), as well as Spotlight’s Cabaret (Kit Kat Girl). She plans to pursue the entertainment industry as a career.

Ryley Grace Youngs (Adult Ensemble / Officer Sitz / Mom / Waiter) just turned 16 and is a sophomore at Imagine Preparatory, in Surprise, where she does morning announcements, is in National Honor Society and Key Club and does peer tutoring. This is her 5th VYT show. She was also in our productions of Tuck Everlasting (Ensemble), Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical (Ms. Square), A Winniethe-Pooh Christmas Tail (Tigger) and Shrek (Duloc Dancer). She has also been in Theaterworks’ productions of Les Misérables (Ensemble) and Once Upon a Mattress (Young Lady) as well as Desert Stages’ 13 (Cassie).

GUEST ACTORS Sarah Ambrose (Katherine Blake) is a returning VYT Alum and is thrilled to be part of this production! VYT audiences will remember her from past productions of Seussical the Musical (Ensemble), Geppetto & Son (Fox Mother / Mother), Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day (Mother) and Peter Pan (Mrs. Darling). Most recently, she has been a Lead Vocalist with AIDA Cruise Lines and a Production Vocalist and cast member of Born to Dance on Princess Cruise Lines. Her regional theater credits include Legally Blonde (Vivienne), Into the Woods (Florinda) and Footloose (Ensemble) with Arizona Broadway Theatre, Shrek (Gingy / Sugar Plum Fairy) at Crown Uptown Theatre, in Kansas, Disgraced (Emily US) with Arizona Theatre Company and The Desperate Hours (Cindy) with Theater Works, in Peoria.

Sarah received her BFA in Musical Theater from the University of Arizona in 2016.

You can follow Sarah’s adventures and updates on her instagram @Sambrose94.

She would like to thank Bobb, Mark, the cast and crew of Freaky Friday, the whole VYT team, and especially her Mom and Dad for their love and support, no matter what. She is an Equity Membership Candidate.

Chris Bradford (Mike) is 20 and a sophomore at Grand Canyon University. This is his first role at VYT. Previously, he was in Ethington Theater’s Godspell (Jesus), You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown (Schroeder) and Peter and the Starcatcher (Grempkin).

He was also in Ridgeview Theater’s Little Shop of Horrors (Audrey 2) and Damn Yankees (Rocky). His future plan is to manage a traveling Theater Ministry.

Mick Fink (Grandpa Gordon) Every musical Mick has been in has been with his daughter, Jessica. This includes Dream City Church’s Celebration of Christmas (baggage handler), several productions for Ahwatukee Children’s Theater: Annie Warbucks (Daddy Warbucks), A Christmas Carol (Jacob Marley, Head Master), and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Simeon). They also performed several Intel Variety Shows together. Mick used to perform lead guitar and sing in a local band. In his spare time he runs the engineering team for HiringSolved, a software startup that helps recruiters discover talent smarter and faster than ever before.

Molly Jisa (Grandma Helene / Mrs. Time) is excited to join the cast of Freaky Friday.

She holds an AAFA in Theatre, has trained in NYC, and is an Equity Membership Candidate. Molly is a member of the Early Bird Special (@azearlybirds). Credits around the Valley include; Audrey from Little Shop of Horrors, Ulla from The Producers (ariZoni Nominee), Annelle from Steel Magnolias, and Margot from The Diary of Anne Frank. Special thanks to her agency, Signature Models and Talent.

Twitter/Instagram: @MollyJisa Bennett Allen Wood (Señor O’Brien/Pastor Bruno) is overjoyed to be making his Valley Youth Theatre debut at the Herberger Theater Center in the Arizona Premiere of Freaky Friday! Some recent credits include The Rocky Horror Picture Show with Scottsdale Community Players (Frank N. Furter), No, No, Nanette at Hale Centre Theatre, The Pajama Game (Sid Sorokin), and he just finished touring the East valley with ShowTunes Productions’ 70’s concert, Boogie Fever! He also starred as Edgar Allan Poe in the Arizona Premiere of Nevermore, which won him an NYA for Outstanding Lead (College Division). Bennett would like to thank his family and dear friends for their endless love and support. Huge thank you also to Bobb, Mark, Nathalie, Joycelin, and the rest of the cast and crew for everything they do for the stage and behind the scenes “today and ev’ry day”!

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 Tuck Everlasting, 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 had the pleasure of designing lighting for the past 14 years. Most recent designs at Valley Youth Theatre include Newsies and Tuck Everlasting. Some of his favorite projects include designing at the World Fair in Yeosu, Korea and Talia Favia’s The Difference Between Sinking and Drowning. Additionally, Jeff serves as Technical Director for the national dance competition company, CELEBRITY. He has also traveled with the national touring productions of Footloose, The Wedding Singer, All Shook Up, and BLaST! where he served as Head Electrician and Moving Light Programmer. In 2008 Jeff began the formation of what is now known as The DAVIS Alliance (TheDAVISAlliance.com), a family of entertainment-focused companies whose mission is to leverage their shared resources to facilitate the accessibility of materials, equipment, and design to theaters in order to elevate their productions.

Jeff’s other lighting work can be viewed at JeffADavis.com 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 Tuck Everlasting, 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).

From June 14–30, 2019, FREAK BROTHERS PIZZA WILL DONATE 15% of all sales (pre-tax) to Valley Youth Theatre when customers mention Valley Youth Theatre or Freaky Friday.

Open 7 days a week at The Churchill project in Downtown Phoenix 901 N. 1st Street, Ste 103 Phoenix, AZ 85004 602.354.7723 www.freakbrotherspizza.com

DESIGNERS AND GUEST ARTISTS Tristan Peterson-Steinert (Conductor) A native of rural Maine, Tristan Peterson-Steinert has called Phoenix home for more than a decade. He previously provided music direction for VYT’s productions of Tuck Everlasting, Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical, A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail and Little Women, among several others. 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. He has had the privilege to music direct several Arizona and regional premieres. Some favorite credits include: Disenchanted, The Secret Garden (NYA Award, Outstanding Musical Direction), The Little Mermaid, Scrooge in Rouge (AZ Premiere), and Tuck Everlasting (AZ Premiere). In addition to maintaining a regular performance schedule, he was also 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. Tristan is a proud Sun Devil and holds two undergraduate degrees from Arizona State University in Social Work and Nonprofit Leadership and Management. He is also a visiting music director at Festival 56, in Princeton, IL. Nathalie Velasquez (Choreographer) Nathalie Velasquez’s most recent project with VYT was with the production of Tuck Everlasting as Guest Choreographer. A Chicago native, Nathalie was raised in Arizona where she studied dance, voice and piano for over 20 years. Her dance experience includes a wide variety, from Ballet to Filipino Folk, and Rhythm and American Smooth Ballroom just to name a few. She started teaching in the Valley in 2005 and has taught over 10,000 students. Nathalie is the owner of Nathalie & Co. Dancewear. She was awarded 2014 Outstanding Young Filipino-American Entrepreneur of the Year by the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce AZ. When Nathalie isn’t helping on stage, you can find her managing her boutique at their new location in North Phoenix.

WELL WISHES Allison, break a leg! We are so very proud of you!

– Love M&D

Ava, you are a shining star! We are so proud of you!

We love you - Mom & Dad

Jaden, fantastic job! Great show! ~ Love Tim & Tina

Alexis, we Love you! #Shinefromwithin! ~ Mom, Cora, Matt

You did it, Shaylee! We love you.

-Mom & Grannyma

Kate, you got this! So proud of you! ~ Love Mom Dad Lucy & Mae XO

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 Christopher Raddatz.......................................................................Gammage & Burnham, P.L.C. 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............................................................................................. US Foods 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 • Brian & Jessica Etheridge • Pam Kirby • Dan & Ann Nahom TeleTech Community Foundation • Torosian Foundation • Twiford Foundation CREW $2,500 TO $4,999

Anonymous • Robert & Catheryn Avalos • Joe & Traci Chandler • Bobb & Karol Cooper Patrick & Sara Dial • Leo & Jan Dressel • 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 Ahearn Family Foundation Arizona Air Boutique Bank of America Colleen Black Judith Bowling Jeromy & Tammy Brink Dignity Health Donor Network of Arizona Ed & Rachel Drummond Tom & Andrea Evans Executive Council Charities Mark & Tory Fearey Fidelity Investments The Foresight Companies Scott Holmes Tom & Beverly Huff Casey & Erin Huston Daniel Isard Douglas Jorden Scott & Cheryl Kriegshauser Jeff & Dilek Marsh Suzie Martin Peter & Lisa McNamara Darien Oien Courtney Ozer Lorna Pederson Peoria Diamond Club Pescatore-Cooper Pono Construction Nihaal & Deepa Rao Katherine Rawling Adam Rice Scottsdale League for the Arts Jeff & Crystal Scudder Howard & Tamera Shanker Silvernail Family Trust Susan Smith Laura Stover Sundt Foundation Paul & Rebecca Tufano Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust

SUPPORTER $500–$999 John & Laurie Bagley BOK Financial Stacy & Linda Burnham Meg Burke Kathleen Chaffee

Mark & Katie Cosmas Holly Curtis Daniel A. DenBoer Heather Dziedzic Engelman Berger Stein Ericsson Eric Foltz Keith & Dana Gapusan Colleen & Gregg Gautam Sue Glawe Greg Gnepper Go Daddy Heidi’s Events & Catering Christopher & Nicole Houk Danny & Kimberly Inglese Intel Corporation Jay Jennings Vince Kozar Chad & Natalie Lahr Trisha Larson David & Barbara Long Jerry Look H.R. & Nancy Lung Kurt Luther Matt Madonna Phillip & Tracy McKenzie Joe Mildenhall David & Kelly Mogensen Paul Perez Leonard & Britta Pritchett Ramiro G Peru Charitable Fund Bill & Janet Richards Ann Marie Ryan Gina Salazar-Hook & John Hook Aaron & Cie Scott Dan & Suzanne Siegel John & Mary Beth Snider John Stover Sean Sweat Greg & Rachel Thornton The Wingardium Project WIlliam & Mary Singer Foundation University of Arizona Lindsey Williams Mike & Susan Wissink Wonderspaces Arizona LLC

PATRON $250–$499

Anonymous Matt & Marnie Aahillen Dianelle Amin Chris & Christy Anderson

Nathan & Joy Anderson Ken & Deb Bacorn Kate Baker Steven Berghoff Jerry & Robyn BienWillner Will & Charlene Bisson Dawn Blocker Martin Blume Judith Brooks 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 Megan Fischer Dennis Ford & Kristen Atwell-Ford 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 Jeff Jacobs Laurie Kahn Jeff Kaluga Steve & Barbara Kaplan Sandy Kravetz Michael Larsen Jenifer Lee Greg & Peggi LaMonica Christopher Lines & Mona Mellegard Bill & Connie Martin Randy Michel Gary & Elizabeth Minarich Paul Newman Jennifer Parker

Christopher Payne Susan Perkins Jeremiah & Katrina Popeller Barbara Ralston Mike & Judy Rex Ciynthia Ricketts Brian & Stephanie Rose Barbara Ruga Michael & Donalee Sarda Bert Savariano Jeff & Nicole Schenk Sean Valcamp & Leslie Shenton Mark & Heidi Snyders Susan Stein Laura Stewart Stephanie Stimson Patrick & Patti Stoner Berney Streed Michael & Bonnie Surguine Meryl Thomas Omar & Suzanne Trevino Elizabeth Troutman-Lear Kelly Welty Jesse Winters

LITERACY AND THE ARTS Andrew Family Foundation Anonymous Applied Materials Arizona Lottery Arizona Seasons for Sharing Catheryn Avalos Capital Group Edward Jones 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 Sundt Foundation Twiford Foundation Wells Fargo Foundation

presents

THE MUSICAL BOOK BY

MUSIC AND LYRICS BY

DENNIS KELLY TIM MINCHIN

Presented at the Herberger Theater Center 222 E. Monroe Street

August 9 thru 25, 2019 Tickets Now On Sale!

Call 602.252.8497 • www.VYT.com Valley Youth Theatre’s biggest fundraiser of the year!

August 17, 2019 • Herberger Theater Center Please join us for a magical evening filled with a live and silent auction, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, performances from our cast of Matilda and our annual VYTALITY (Valley Youth Theatre Applauds Leadership Impacting Today’s Youth) Awards. Go to www.vyt.com to purchase tickets, make a donation or volunteer for this incredible event!

Thank You to Everyone... who supported our 2019 VYTee Golf Classic

at Grand Canyon University Golf Course. More than 60 golfers enjoyed a beautiful day of fun and fundraising for VYT.

#vytfriday

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

VALLEY YOUTH THEATRE STAFF Bobb Cooper.....................................................................................Producing Artistic Director Karol Cooper.................................................................................. Resident Costume Designer Mark Fearey.......................................................................................Resident Music Supervisor Suzie Martin................................................................................................... Managing Director Renee Bioletto....................................................................................... Costume Shop Assistant Matt Brown....................................................................................................... Technical Director Tiffany Owen....................................................................................................General Manager Grace Perry..........................................................................................Director of Development Cozette Phifer...........................................................Director of Marketing & Communications Kris Romero....................................................................................Audience Services Manager Joycelin Jacobs-Schwartz*........................................................... Production Stage Manager 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 24th 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 24th 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.

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.

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.

VALLEY YOUTH THEATRE STAFF BIOS 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!

Grace Perry (Director of Development) is a third generation Arizonan who is passionate about the arts and local theatre. She is the proprietor of Gracie’s Tax Bar, in Downtown Phoenix, and has a long personal and professional history in nonprofit and fundraising work. She has overseen operations for Valley of the Sun YMCA, Crescent Ballroom and Upward Projects. Grace is also a musician who enjoys poetry, cooking and her dog, Link.

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 employers 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.

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. Thank you for helping us provide our community’s youth with the opportunity to “be the very best they can be!”