Producing Artistic Director BOBB COOPER presents
Book DENNIS
KELLY
Music & Lyrics TIM MINCHIN
Orchestrations and Additional Music
CHRIS NIGHTINGALE Sponsored by
Director BOBB COOPER Choreographer NATHALIE VELASQUEZ Music Director MARK FEAREY Costume Designer KAROL COOPER Lighting Designer JEFF A. DAVIS Sound Designer BRIAN HONSBERGER Set Rental Provided by FRONT ROW THEATRICAL RENTAL Production Stage Manager JOYCELIN JACOBS-SCHWARTZ Matilda was first commissioned and produced by the Royal Shakespeare Company and premiered at The Courtyard Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, England on 9 November 2010. It transferred to the Cambridge Theatre in the West End of London on 25 October 2011 and received its US premiere at the Shubert Theatre, Broadway, USA on 4 March 2013. ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA THE MUSICAL is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTIShows.com THE VIDEOTAPING OR OTHER VIDEO OR AUDIO RECORDING OF THIS PRODUCTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
CAST OF CHARACTERS (In alphabetical order) Katerina Anderson......................................................................................................................................... Big Kid Jared Barbee....................................................................................................................................Mr. Wormwood Abbey Bernard............................................................................................................................................... Big Kid Grace Bush................................................................................................................................................ Ensemble Reese Cantu.................................................................................................................................................Michael Kylan Chait..................................................................................................................................................... Big Kid Wyatt Chamoff...............................................................................................................................................Bruce* Caden Christel.......................................................................................................................................... Ensemble Kate Daley................................................................................................................................................. Ensemble Olivia Fearey.................................................................................................................................................. Big Kid Ronda Felton...........................................................................................................................................Mrs. Phelps Jessica Fink.....................................................................................................................................Mrs. Wormwood Gabriella Grasso............................................................................................................................................ Big Kid Ian Gray.......................................................................................................................................................... Big Kid Kendall Hook............................................................................................................................................. Ensemble Trevar Howell............................................................................................................................... Agatha Trunchbull Michael Jaramillo...........................................................................................................................................Nigel* Preston Kersting.........................................................................................................................................Rudolpho Stephanie Larson................................................................................................................................... Miss Honey Brooklyn Martin............................................................................................................................................... Alice* Aaron McCaskill............................................................................................................................................ Tommy Nathaniel McNamara................................................................................................................................... Big Kid Anna Mettes.............................................................................................................................. Acrobat, Ensemble Maddie Sue Miller................................................................................................................................... Hortensia* Sage Emerson Mitchell................................................................................................................................. Big Kid Rachel Nathan.......................................................................................................................................... Ensemble Ava Rylee Newton....................................................................................................................................Lavender* Vivian Paige Nichols.....................................................................................................................................Matilda Jaden Roesch........................................................................................................................................... Ensemble Carson Roubison......................................................................................................................... Sergei, Ensemble Ava Saba......................................................................................................................................................... Big Kid Erin Deines Schumacher.............................................................................................................. Nurse, Ensemble Prescott Smidt..................................................................................................... Children’s Entertainer, Ensemble Olivia Smith................................................................................................................................................ Ensemble Elliot Noah Thompson.......................................................................................................................................Eric* Riley Thornton....................................................................................................................Escapologist, Ensemble Justin Vaught............................................................................................................................................. Ensemble Jessica Wastchak...................................................................................................................................... Ensemble Faith Wheelington..........................................................................................................................Cook, Ensemble Kate Williams............................................................................................................................................ Amanda* Andy Wissink.................................................................................................................................Doctor, Ensemble *Little Kid
ORCHESTRA (At Time of Printing) Keyboard 2/Conductor................................................................................................................. Mark Fearey Keyboard 1.................................................................................................................................Trevor Bourland Cello............................................................. Josiah Duhlstine, Hannah Lang, Cailet Popelier, Sun Woo Kim Reeds ....................................................................................................................Cassi Bussma, Madison Coy Trumpets ........................................................................................................................................ Mike Downey Trombone ..............................................................................................................Connor Lively, Gracie Potter Guitar...................................................................................................................Isaac Brodkin, Jaden Dupree Bass............................................................................................................................................. Carolyn Ogden
PRODUCTION STAFF (At Time of Printing) Director...........................................................................................................................................Bobb Cooper Music Supervisor & Director........................................................................................................... Mark Fearey Choreographer................................................................................................................... Nathalie Velasquez Costume Designer........................................................................................................................ Karol Cooper Lighting Designer............................................................................................................................. Jeff A. Davis Sound Designer...................................................................................................................... Brian Honsberger Assistant Music Director ............................................................................................................Trevor Bourland Technical Director............................................................................................................................. Matt Brown Prop Designer.........................................................................................................Joycelin Jacobs-Schwartz* Production Stage Manager..................................................................................Joycelin Jacobs-Schwartz* Assistant Stage Manager.................................................................................... Harrison Newton, Niki Brown Hair & Makeup Design...................................................... Karol Cooper, Mikee Leon and Whitney Stevens Costume Shop Assistant..............................................................................................................Renee Bioletto Wardrobe Intern........................................................................................................ Gretchen Fyffe, Paige Hill Tech Crew.................................. Will Monson, Emily Jacoby, Matthew Steward, Cody Kellen, Katie Brown *Denotes VYT Alumni
Flying Illusions provided by ZFX Flying Effects.
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 Controller.............................................................................................................................. Meghan Jameson Fund Development Coordinator.............................................................................................Marcia Bannon Director of Patron Experience............................................................................................ Anne Marie Geary 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 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.......................Crissy Engle, Anthony Garcia, Leobardo Martinez, Haydehn Tuipulotu
MUSICAL NUMBERS ACT ONE Miracle.............................................................Little Kids, Parents, Matilda, Ensemble Naughty...............................................................................................................Matilda Acrobat Story I...........................................................................Acrobat, Escapologist School Song...................................................................................... Little Kids, Big Kids Pathetic ........................................................................................................ Miss Honey The Hammer................................................................. Trunchbull, Little Kids, Big Kids Naughty Reprise (Superglue)...........................................................................Matilda Chokey Chant.................................................................................. Little Kids, Big Kids Loud................................................................ Mrs. Wormwood, Rudolpho, Ensemble This Little Girl................................................................................................. Miss Honey Bruce................................................................................................................. Little Kids
ACT TWO All I Know................................................................................................Mr. Wormwood When I Grow Up............................................Little Kids, Miss Honey, Matilda, Big Kids I’m So Clever..........................................................................................Mr. Wormwood Acrobat Story IV (I’m Here)..................................... Escapologist, Matilda, Acrobats The Smell of Rebellion.............Trunchbull, Little Kids, Matilda, Miss Honey, Big Kids Quiet....................................................................................................................Matilda My House..............................................................................Miss Honey, Escapologist Revolting Children............................................................................ Little Kids, Big Kids Priyatna Paznakomitsa................................................................... Sergei, Hunchmen Bows................................................................................................................ Company
#vytmatilda
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 give them a safe space in which to act, dance and sing. 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!”
MEET THE CAST Katerina Anderson (Big Kid) is 11 years old and a 6th grader at Fireside Elementary School. This is her VYT debut! Some of her recent favorite performances around the Valley include Hendrika, the Dutch girl, in Miracle on 34th Street at Arizona Broadway Theatre, Kassim in Aladdin Jr. and Peter Pan in Peter Pan, Jr., both at PCA, July in Annie and Peter Pan in Shrek the Musical, TYA, both at Desert Foothills Theater, and Charlie Bucket in Willy Wonka, Jr. at Bender Performing Arts. She enjoys performing in musicals and vocal showcases, playing the ukulele, dancing and spending time with her family and friends. Katerina wants to pursue a career in theatre and perform on Broadway. Jared Barbee (Mr. Wormwood) is 18 and a recent graduate of The Odyssey Institute for Advanced and International Studies, in Buckeye. This is his 5th VYT show, having previously appeared in Shrek (Lord Farquaad), The Wizard of Oz (Scarecrow), Charlotte’s Web (Gander) and Grease (Ensemble). He has also been in Theater Works’ Beauty and the Beast (Lumiere) and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Levi), as well as Spotlight Youth Theater’s Cabaret (Victor) and OI Theatre’s Mary Poppins (Bert), A Winter’s Tale (Leontes) and Thoroughly Modern Millie (Trevor Graydon). Abbey Bernard (Big Kid) is 11 and in 7th grade at Casteel High School, in Gilbert, where she’s involved in drama and choir. This is her very first VYT show, although she has appeared in Queen Creek Performing Arts Center’s Frozen (Oaken), Little Mermaid (Flotsam), Alice in Wonderland (Mad Hatter), Annie (May), Madagascar (King Julian) and Lion King (Timon). She is a member of KREW, a Queen Creek performance group, and studies voice. Abbey would like to pursue a career on Broadway. Grace Bush (Ensemble) is 17 and in 12th grade at Metropolitan Arts Institute, in Phoenix, where she’s involved in photography. This is her 5th show on stage at VYT. The previous four were Polkadots (Mama Square), The Hobbit (Elven Queen), Alice in Wonderland (Lady) and Charlotte’s Web (Ensemble). Grace has also been on the Tech Crew for multiple VYT shows including: Newsies, Annie, Little Women, Shrek the Musical, and Madagascar. She likes photography, drawing and singing and aspires to be a pediatric nurse. Reese Cantu (Michael) is 15 and a Sophomore at Brophy College Preparatory. He lives in Phoenix and this is his 6th VYT show. Others include Tuck Everlasting (Hugo), 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, he’s involved in theatre and Deaf Coffee Nights. Reese aspires to be an actor or an ASL interpreter. Kylan Chait (Big Kid) is 12 and in the 7th grade at AZVA. This is his 4th VYT show. He has also been in our productions of The Little Mermaid (Flounder), The Wizard of Oz (Munchkin) and Madagascar (Mason Monkey) as well as The Phoenix Theatre Company’s production of Elf (Michael), Limelight’s The Lion King (Simba) and The Little Mermaid (Sebastian) and Theater Works’ Les Misérables, Jr. (Gavroche). Kylan enjoys reading, drawing and spending time with his brother and two dogs. He hopes to one day perform on Broadway and become an EMT. IG: kylantristanchait. Wyatt Chamoff (Bruce) is 10 and in 5th grade at Annunciation Catholic School, in Cave Creek. This is his 2nd VYT show, having previously performed in Shrek (Little Shrek). He’s also been in Desert Foothills Theater’s Seussical (Mr. Mayor), Wonka (Charles U/S, Ensemble) and Charlotte’s Web (Templeton), as well as Arizona Broadway Theatre’s Mary Poppins (Michael Banks). His favorite musicals are Beetlejuice, (which he just saw in New York as his first Broadway show), and Hamilton.
MEET THE CAST Caden Christel (Ensemble) is 15 and in 10th grade at Corona del Sol, in Tempe, where he participates in drama and choir. This is his 2nd VYT show. His first was last season’s Newsies (Newsie/Scab). He has also been in Corona del Sol Theater Works’ A Few Good Men (Ensemble) and Sound of Music (Kurt). Caden’s favorite musical is Be More Chill and he hopes to be an actor on Broadway, one day. What he likes most about Matilda: it’s “a wonderful show that shows a lot of fun on stage and showcases an amazing story.” Kate Daley (Ensemble) is 17 and a Senior at Desert Vista High School, in Phoenix. She’s involved in Thunder Theatre Company and plans to pursue a career in theatre. This is Kate’s third on-stage show with VYT. The other two were Polkadots (Lily Polkadot) and The Hobbit (Nori). She has also been on the Tech Crew for Freaky Friday, Tuck Everlasting, Newsies and Annie. What does she like about this role? “I love the strength in numbers the Ensemble brings to this show.” Olivia Fearey (Big Kid) a 12-year-old 7th grader at Madison Number One where she is in the REACH program. Most recently, she was seen in Fun Home at Phoenix Theatre as Young Allison. This is her 9th show at VYT! Some of her credits include: Young Fiona in Shrek the Musical, Munchkin in The Wizard of Oz, Piglet in A Winnie-thePooh Christmas Tail, and a Lost Boy in Peter Pan. Olivia loves to dance, sing, read, do gymnastics, and spend time with her 7 pets! The jury is still out on what she would like to be when she grows up, but it definitely includes being an actress on both Broadway and TV. Ronda Felton (Mrs. Phelps) is 17 and in 12th grade at Shadow Mountain High School, in Phoenix, where she’s involved in theatre. This is her 1st VYT show! She previously appeared in Childsplay’s In the Heights (Ensemble). What does she hope audience members take away from this show? “That as young actors, we dedicate, strive and put forth a lot of passion for this show.” Jessica Fink (Mrs. Wormwood) is 16 and a Senior, homeschooled in Ahwatukee. This is her 3rd VYT show, as she was in this season’s Freaky Friday (Torrey) and 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). Jessica has appeared in a Hotel Transylvania promotional video for Nickelodeon/Sony. She enjoys karate, cat-sitting, swimming, drawing and taking walks. In the future, she plans to be on Broadway and foster kittens, at the same time. Gabriella Grasso (Big Kid) is 13 and in 8th grade. She is homeschooled and lives in Buckeye. This is her acting debut, however, she was an integral member of our Tech Crew in last season’s Freaky Friday. Gabby is involved in dance, voice, piano and her church youth group. Her favorite musical is Wicked and the one thing she wants audiences to take away from this show is, “No matter your age or size, if you believe in yourself, you can make a difference.” Ian Gray (Big Kid) is 13 and in 8th grade at Arizona School for the Arts, in Phoenix, where he’s involved in choir and theatre. This is his 8th VYT production, having previously appeared in The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane (Bryce), Wizard of Oz (Coroner/Munchkin), Charlotte’s Web (Arable), Pinkalicious (Peter), Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Children’s Chorus), Emperor’s New Clothes (PJ) and Snow White (Fred). He was also in The Phoenix Theater Company’s Fun Home (Christian) and Spotlight Youth Theatre’s School of Rock (Billy) and Into the Woods (Cinderella’s Prince).
MEET THE CAST Kendall Hook (Ensemble) is 15 and a Sophomore in Scottsdale, where he’s involved in theatre. This is his 3rd VYT show, having previously been on stage for The Hobbit (Dwalin) and Wizard of Oz (Munchkin). He was also in Spotlight’s production of 13 (Brent), Greasepaint’s School of Rock (Mr. Stanford) and Elf (Mr. Green), as well as Scottsdale Musical Theatre’s production of A Christmas Carol (Ensemble). He is involved in martial arts and plans to pursue a career as an actor. Trevar Howell (Agatha Trunchbull) is 16 and a Junior at Phoenix’s Shadow Mountain High School, where he’s involved in Drama Club, Principal Student Advisory and Link Leaders. This is his VYT debut. Trevar has appeared in his school’s productions of Spamalot (Sir Lancelot), Rock of Ages (Lonny Barnett), 1984 (Martin), Anon(ymous) (Strygal) and The Addams Family (Ensemble). Additionally, he sings in an Acapella group and is a volunteer usher at the Herberger Theater Center. Michael Jaramillo (Nigel) is 10 and in 5th grade at St. Francis Xavier, in Phoenix. This is his first VYT appearance, however, he has been in several local productions, including Art & Sol’s Shrek Jr. (Baby Bear), Willy Wonka Jr. (Augustus Gloop) and Little Mermaid Jr. (Flounder), Terry Temple Music Studios’ Beauty & The Beast Jr. (Chip) and Lion King Jr. (Young Simba) and Brophy/Xavier Summer Theatre’s Seussical (Jojo). He’s involved in baseball, theatre, cub scouts (Webelo II), math club and guitar. Preston Kersting (Rudolpho) is 17 and a Senior at Chaparral High School, in Scottsdale. This is his 2nd VYT show, having been in last season’s production of Freaky Friday (Luis/Student Ensemble). He has also been in Greasepaint’s Urinetown (Bobby Strong), School of Rock (Dewey Finn) and The Wedding Singer (Robbie Hart) as well as his school’s production of Little Shop of Horrors (Orin Scrivello). He enjoys singing, hiking and spending time with friends and plans to act in and produce TV shows and movies. Stephanie Larson (Miss Honey) is 19 and a Sophomore at Arizona State University. She’s in the American Medical Women’s Association and Barrett, The Honors College. This is her 10th VYT show! She has also been cast in our productions of Freaky Friday (Ensemble), 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). Brooklyn Martin (Alice) is 9 years old and in 4th grade at Glendale’s Copper Creek Elementary School. This is her very 1st VYT show! She has also been in Spotlight Youth Theatre’s The Beat Bugs (Buzz), The Aristocats Jr. (Marie), Greasepaint Youth Theatre’s Aladdin Jr. (Fortune Teller/Ensemble) and Stage Dreams Youth Theatre’s Annie Jr. (Pepper), Dear Edwina Jr. (Annie) and Mulan Jr. (Ancestor Yum). She is in Spotlight Youth Theatre’s performance troupe, Celebration. Aaron McCaskill (Tommy) is 12 and in 8th grade. He lives in Gilbert and is homeschooled. This is his 2nd VYT production, having previously appeared in A Winniethe-Pooh Christmas Tail (Piglet). His theatre experience includes Arizona Broadway Theater’s The Addams Family (Pugsly), Miracle on 34th Street (Harry Finfer) and Mary Poppins (Michael Banks), Mesa Community College’s Seussical (Jojo) and Actors Youth Theater’s Robin Hood and His Merry Men (Kevin), All Shook Up (Dennis) and Thoroughly Modern Millie Jr. (Ching Ho).
MEET THE CAST Nathaniel McNamara (Big Kid) is 13 and in 8th grade at All Saints’ Episcopal Day School, in Phoenix. This is his 4th time on stage with VYT, having previously been cast in A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail (Rabbit), Newsies (Les) and Madagascar (Mort the Lemur). He was also in Desert Stages Theater’s 13 (Eddie/Ensemble) and Oliver! (Artful Dodger) and East Valley Children’s Theater’s Peter Pan (Tootles). Nathaniel is active in Arizona Animal Welfare League and Boys Team Charity. Anna Mettes (Acrobat, Ensemble) is 17 and in 12th grade at Arizona School for the Arts where she’s in National Honor Society and Thespian Society. This is her 7th VYT production. She was also in our productions of Freaky Friday (Hannah), 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). Maddie Sue Miller (Hortensia) lives in Gilbert, is 10 years old and in 5th grade. This is her 2nd VYT show. Her first time on stage with us was in Annie (Abigail). She also appeared in MCC’s Shrek (Young Fiona), Hale Centre Theatre’s Annie (Molly) and Actor’s Youth Theatre’s 42nd Street (Lorraine Fleming). Outside of school, she’s involved in competitive dance, piano, guitar and Homeschool Co-Op. She aspires to be a theatre actress on Broadway. Sage Emerson Mitchell (Big Kid) is 13 and entering 8th grade at Stetson Hills Elementary School, in Phoenix, where she’s active in NJHS, cheer and chorus. This is her 2nd VYT show. Previously, she was cast in Annie (Orphan). Her onstage experience includes Spotlight Youth Theatre’s Best Christmas Pageant Ever (Pee Wee Herdman) and Mulan (Ensemble) as well as Theatre Works’ Elf (Charlie) and Stage Dreams’ productions of Legally Blonde (Vivienne Kensington) and High School Musical (Taylor McKessie). Rachel Nathan (Ensemble) is 16 and a Junior at Scottsdale’s Cicero Prep where she’s in drama club. This is her 4th VYT show. She was in our productions of Freaky Friday (Adult Ensemble), 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) and Desert Stages Theatre’s 13 (Lucy). Ava Rylee Newton (Lavender) is 11, lives in Peoria and is in 6th grade at Montessori Kingdom of Learning, where she plays ukulele. This is her first time on the VYT stage, but she’s been in Arizona Broadway Theatre’s Miracle on 34th Street (Susan Walker), Oliver (Workhouse Kid) and A Christmas Carol (Fan at 6/Cratchit Girl), Spotlight Youth Theatre’s Miracle Worker (Helen Keller), Pippin (Theo) and Alice in Wonderland Jr. (Small Alice) as well as Theater Works’ Little Mermaid (Flounder), Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Dream Choir) and The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe (Lucy). Vivian Paige Nichols (Matilda) is 12 and a 7th-grader at Arizona School for the Arts, where she is in Broadway Club, theatre, choir and dance. This is her 7th production with VYT! She was previously in A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail (Piglet), Annie (Kate), Madagascar the Musical (Ensemble), Wizard of Oz (Lullaby Munchkin), Secret Garden (Children’s Choir) and Charlotte’s Web (Lamb). She has appeared in her school’s production of Honk Jr. (Cat) and Arizona Opera’s Das Rheingold (Children’s Ensemble). Vivian would like to be on Broadway or a math teacher.
MEET THE CAST Jaden Roesch (Ensemble) is 15 and a Freshman at Sandra Day O’Connor, in Phoenix. This is his second time cast in a VYT production, his first being Newsies (Newsie). He has also been in Bender Performing Arts’ Lion King (Simba), Wizard of Oz (Cowardly Lion), Willy Wonka (Grandpa Joe) and Little Mermaid (Chef Louie). He is in the Dance Motion Performing Company and hopes to dance on Broadway, one day. Carson Roubison (Sergei, Ensemble) is 16 and a Junior at Metropolitan Arts Institute, in Phoenix. This is the 6th VYT show Carson has been a part of. He’s been on stage in Freaky Friday (Adult Ensemble/Kowalski/Waiter), 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. Ava Saba (Big Kid) is 13 and in 8th grade at Learning Foundations and Performing Arts, in Gilbert, where she participates in musical theatre and dance. This is her first time performing with VYT, however, she has been in AYT’s 42nd Street (Gladys/Chorus Girl), Annie Jr. (July) and Lion King Jr. (Young Nala) as well as Places Productions’ Alice in Wonderland (Alice) and Little Mermaid Jr. (Ariel). In her spare time, Ava enjoys singing and drawing. Erin Deines Schumacher (Nurse, Ensemble) is 14 and in 9th grade at ASU Prep Digital, an online school, in Phoenix. This is her 3rd VYT show. She was also in last season’s productions of Freaky Friday (Student Ensemble) and 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. Prescott Smidt (Children’s Entertainer, Ensemble) is 15 and a Sophomore at Arizona School for the Arts, where he’s in Thespian Society. This is the 9th VYT show Prescott has been a part of. Others include Freaky Friday (Adult Ensemble/Mr. Blumen/Hannah’s Dad/Waiter), 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). Olivia Smith (Ensemble) just turned 20 and is a Junior at Arizona State University, where she is a Nursing Major and in Looming with Love. This is her 6th VYT show. She was also in our productions of Freaky Friday (Adult Ensemble/Mrs. Luckenbill/Florist), 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 The 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).
MEET THE CAST Elliot Noah Thompson (Eric) is 10 years old and in 5th grade at Scottsdale Christian Academy. He loves bears and supporting DIPG research in memory of his best friend, Hollis Doherty. This is his 5th VYT show! He was most recently seen as Michael Banks in Mary Poppins (Mesa Encore Theatre) and Oliver Twist in Lionel Bart’s Oliver! (Desert Stages Theatre). He has also done one production with Theatre Artists Studio. He would like to thank Sarah Storm (New York) for her generous help with his British accent. IG: @adventureswithelliot Riley Thornton (Escapologist, Ensemble) is 15 and in 10th grade at Campo Verde High School, in Gilbert. He is a member of VYTeens and this is the 13th time he’s been part of a VYT show! He was also on stage in our productions of Freaky Friday (Adam), 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 last season’s VYT productions of The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane and A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail. He has performed in a number of other local productions, including Hale Centre Theatre’s Big Fish (Zacky Price) and Greasepaint’s 13 (Rabbi/Ensemble). Justin Vaught (Ensemble) is 17 and goes to Desert Vista High School. He is in VYTeens and this is his 13th time on the VYT stage! He has also been in our productions of Freaky Friday (Student Ensemble), 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). Additionally, he was cast in Hale Centre Theatre’s Christmas Carol (Peter Cratchit) and Desert Vista High School’s Wizard of Oz (Wizard), The Crucible (Reverent Parris) and The Addams Family (Ensemble) as well as Plan B Entertainment’s Les Misérables (Gavroche).
Well Wishes!
Andy - You are our miracle! Have fun! Love, Mom and Dad
Kate - Watching you have fun on stage is our favorite thing! We love you and are so proud of your hard work. Love Mom & Dad Faith – Your star continues to shine. We love you, Mom & Dad Kate, we are so proud of you! Congratulations! Love Mom & Dad
Gabby, we are blessed to have you as our revolting child! We love your beautiful heart! Love Mom, Dad and King Luca
Sage - We love watching you light up the stage! Love you, girl! Michael J. - We are so proud of all the hard work you have put into the show. We love you so much! Love Mom, Dad, Sophia & Matthew
MEET THE CAST Jessica Wastchak (Ensemble) is 16 and a Junior at Hamilton High School, in Chandler, where she’s involved in theatre and cross country. This is her 6th VYT show. She was also in our productions of Freaky Friday (Savannah’s Friend), Tuck Everlasting (Mae Tuck), The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane (Old Lady/Society Lady), Shrek (Queen Lillian/Ensemble) and Narnia (Cruelie). She also appeared 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. Faith Wheelington (Ensemble, Cook) lives in Goodyear, is 16 and in 11th grade at Bioscience High School. She’s Secretary in student government, a National Honor Society member and is part of the dance ensemble at Take Five Dance Academy, as well as the lead singer in her school band. This is Faith’s 6th time on stage with VYT. Her other performances included The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane (Nellie/ Marlene), Annie (Ensemble/Apple Seller), Wizard of Oz (Ensemble), Shrek (Ensemble) and Alice in Wonderland (Cheshire Cat). Kate Williams (Amanda) is 10 and in 5th grade at All Saints’ Episcopal Day School, in Phoenix. This is her 3rd time on the VYT stage. She was also cast in our productions of The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane (Abilene) and Annie (Molly). She’s also performed in Art & Sol Performing Arts’ Shrek Jr. (Young Fiona), Lion King Jr. (Young Nala) and Annie Jr. (Molly) as well as Spotlight Youth Theatre’s Best Christmas Pageant (Gladys Herdman). Kate’s involved in soccer and aspires to be a professional actress. Andy Wissink (Doctor, Ensemble) is 16 and a Junior at Brophy College Preparatory where he is President of Drama Club, a Red and White Club member and International Thespian Society member. This is his 13th time on the VYT stage! He most recently appeared in our productions of Tuck Everlasting (Miles Tuck), The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane (Edward Tulane), Newsies (Finch), Shrek (Captain/Ensemble), Wizard of Oz (Featured Ensemble) and Charlotte’s Web (Templeton) and he’s a member of VYTeens. He has also been in his school’s productions of Seussical (Horton) and Into the Woods (Jack) and in Greasepaint’s Elf (Buddy).
Well Wishes! Nathaniel - You always make us proud. Mom Dad and Trevor Wyatt - Break a leg! We love you! Mom, Dad and Stella Abbey - Follow your dreams! We love you always! Mom, Dad, Ariel Olivia- Break a leg! We love you! Mom & Dad
We are so proud of you Viv! Break a leg! - Mommy & Daddy E&K Trevar- We are so proud of you! Your future is here. Break a leg! Stephanie, You are our shining star! We love you! ~ Mom & Dad
OWNERS Dennis Kelly: Work for theatre includes Debris, Osama the Hero, After the End, Love and Money, Taking Care of Baby, DNA, Orphans, The Gods Weep, and The Ritual Slaughter of Gorge Mastromas. He has written the book for the new musical of Pinocchio which opened at the National Theatre at the end of 2017, and in 2018 his new play Girls and Boys opened at the Royal Court. His plays have been performed worldwide and to date have been translated into nearly forty languages. For television he co-wrote and co-created Pulling and wrote and created Utopia, and for film he wrote the screenplay for Black Sea, directed by Kevin MacDonald. He also wrote the book for the Olivier and Tony winning Matilda the Musical. In 2010 DNA became a set text on the GCSE English Literature syllabus. Tim Minchin: Tim is a musician, actor, comedian, writer and director. He’s toured extensively in the US, UK and Australia, performing solo, with bands, and with symphony orchestras. He’s released five DVDs, the most recent recorded with the Heritage Orchestra at the Royal Albert Hall. Screen acting credits include Robin Hood Origins (2018), Secret River (2015), and Californication (Season 6 - 2013). Stage acting credits include Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead (Sydney Theatre Company) and Jesus Christ Superstar (UK/Australia tours). Tim has written extensively for theatre and is the composer-lyricist of Matilda the Musical (with Dennis Kelly) and Groundhog Day the Musical (with Danny Rubin). Roald Dahl: Roald Dahl (1916-1990) was the author of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Matilda, The BFG and many more of the world’s best-loved children’s stories. He remains one of the world’s greatest storytellers and is celebrated annually by the world’s biggest author-based event, Roald Dahl Day – which is recognised across the globe on 13th September. His first children’s story, James and the Giant Peach, published in 1961 and was a huge hit. Every subsequent book became a best-seller. Today, his stories are available in 59 languages and, by a conservative estimate, he has sold more than 250 million books. Many of these stories have also been adapted for stage and screen, including the 1971 film classic Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, Wes Anderson’s acclaimed Fantastic Mr. Fox, and the Royal Shakespeare Company’s multi-award-winning production of Matilda The Musical. For more works, visit www.roalddahl.com, www.facebook.com/roalddahl, www.twitter.com/roald_dahl, www.instagram.com/roald_dahl/.
DESIGNERS AND GUEST ARTISTS 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 Freaky Friday, 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.
DESIGNERS AND GUEST ARTISTS 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). Nathalie Velasquez (Choreographer) Nathalie Velasquez’s most recent project with VYT was in last season’s production of Freaky Friday 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.
SMILE & SHOP!
SHOP ON AMAZON SMILE and select Valley Youth Theatre as your charity of choice
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
VYT BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2019-20 Officers Joe Chandler, Chair............................................................................ Sherman & Howard, L.L.C. Patrick Vance, Vice Chair, Board Governance.................................................American Funds Catheryn J. Avalos, Vice Chair, Fund Development............................................Zions Bancorp Peter McNamara, Treasurer............................................................ Veritas Technologies, L.L.C. Erin Huston, Secretary........................................................................................................KPMG Bobb Cooper, Producing Artistic Director................................................... Valley Youth Theatre
Members 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 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................................................................................................... BOK Financial Christopher Raddatz.......................................................................Gammage & Burnham, P.L.C. Gina Salazar Hook................................................................................... Gina Marie Productions 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 Colleen Gautam.............................................................................. Valley of the Sun United Way 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
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 Patrick & Amy Vance • George Weathers • Steve & Deborah Zell 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 & Greg 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 Cynthia 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 Treviño 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
SPONSOR-A-SEAT
Thank you... to the following who supported Sponsor-a-Seat!
Adams, Carol Adams, Catherine & Arthur Ahearn Family Foundation American Family Insurance Amin, Dianelle Antioco, Lorraine Arizona Community Foundation Ashton, Marc Austin, Maureen Avalos, Catheryn & Robert Baab, Karen Barbano, Marianne Barkdoll, Margaret & Donald Barraza, Kathleen Baumann, Judi Belsan, Michele & Peter Bliss, Barbara Blume, Martin & Toni Blythe Grace PLLC Boeder, Sarah Borges, Kelli Boubek, Christine Brady, Cheryl Brazeal, Anne Brink, Tammy & Jeromy Brittain, Denise Brooks, Judith Brown, Carolyn Brown, Lisa Buekers, Michael Burns, Richard Carruth, David
Casuga, Evelyn Chambliss, Richard Cohen, Sharon & Craig Colangelo, Jerry and Joan Cole, Douglas Cooper, Bobb & Karol Crampton, Liz Cranston, Jennifer & Jake Cretu, Dana Crowell, Mary Cullum, Kimberley & Rodney Daley-Soll, Margo Daly, Tanya Daninger, Rita Davis, Bert & Kathy Keegan-Davis DeBano-Rhodes, Kathryn DeCristofaro, Courtney and James Delaney, Paul & Joann Den Boer, Annie & Daniel Crutcher, Devlyn Donati, Robert Dressel, Leo & Jan Dziedzic, Heather Edward Jones Eisaman, James and Barbara Erickson, Portia Fazel, Abbas & Valerie Fearey, Mark and Victoria Ferres, Zachary
Fischer, Megan & Matthew Flint, Susan Formisano, Katherine and David French, Lexy Funke, Patrick & Jennifer George, Christie Gillman, Farris Golner, Jeff Green, Martha & Michael Gressel, Susan Guthrie, Pat Hagenah, Philip & Susan Hall, Trinity Hanke, Kathryn & Arthur Harrison, Dee Hays, Christel Hillman, Nancy Holt, Debra Holyoak, Jennifer Hormel, Geri Hormel, Gillian Hormel, Jamie Houk, Rita & Mike Hughes, Carol Husband, Nancy and Ken Jackson, Susan
Jacobs-Schwartz, Loretta Johnson, Bonnie Jones, Cathy and Roy Jordan, Mary Jorden, Douglas Kahn, Laurie Karp, Jeri & Rick Katz, Jamye and Evan Keefe, Thomas & Karen Kennedy, Denise Kid to Kid Kirk, June & Leland Kohne, David & Rosie Kovach, Christine Kovach, Kathi Kulaga, Jeff Landman, Natalie Lanke, Sanjana Larsen, Michael Lee, Jenifer Leibsohn, Eric and Rachelle Lenderman, Jason Lipsky, Janet Lowry, Patricia Lung, H.R. & Nancy Mackay, Lucille Manross, John & Tulli
Marsh, Dilek & Jeff Martin, Bill and Connie Marton, Kraig Masing, Erin McKenzie, Philip & Tracy McNemar, Troy Merrill, Anthony & Jody Meyer, Ronald Mikes, David & Allison Mildenhall, Joe Mills, Grant & Gerrie Mirmelli, Germaine & Jon Mishkin, Keith & Shannon Moloney, Gina Morris, Stacy Murray, Barrie Murray, Whitney Nanberg, Bob & Cheryl Nichols, Andrew and Ronda Nuckols, Michelle Nussbaum, Randy Oberholtzer, Carolyn & Cory Oien, Darien
SPONSOR-A-SEAT (Sponsors Continued) Oliver, Christine Olson, Elizabeth Olsson, Erik Orchard, Robin Ozer, Courtney Ozer, Hope and Jay Parker, Jennifer & Kevin Pasquel III, George Pederson, Linda & William Pederson, Lorna Pendegraft, Amanthi Perez, Paul Perla Law, PLC Peru, Ramey & Dana Pessa Capozzi, Julie Primack, Craig Rawling, Katharine Reynoso, Laura & Joe Richards, Janet & William Rodgers, Larissa & Ronald Rose, Jordan & Jason Running, Cliff Ryan, James Salit, Murray Sanchez, Jesse Sanders, April Sanders, Nancy Saults, Joyce Schneider, Karen & Tim Schnepf, Amanda & Mandi Schreiber, Michael & Gitte Schwab Charitable Scoufos, Jeannette & Larry Shein Phanse Adkins, PC Short, Cody Silva, Shirley Smiljanich, Jennifer Smith, Diana & David
Smith, Susan Stack, Thomas Stahl, Alison Steimel, Dan Stewart, Laura & Collin Stimson, Stephanie Stock, Judith & John Stoloff, Melissa Stover, John Stults, Ashley Suffolk, SueAnne Sullivan, Lisa Sweat, Sean T. Carmichael, PC Terjesen, Erin Thomson, Robert Thraen, Frances Toombs, Gale Torba, Fran & Robert Ulfers, Antonia Vickers Agency, Jim and Shelly Vickers Viola, Danielle Von Borstel, Dianne Vossler, Craig & Linda Ward, Donna & John Wingardium Project Weinstein, Bruce Weisman, Leslye Wick, Tamara Daly, William Williams, Lindsey & Patrick Winham, Andrea Winston, Joyce Wopnford, Jim & Barbara Wszalek, Jackie Xanthos, Melinda & Robert Young, Jeff & Jane Youngberg, Rosalin Yount, Robin & Michele Zagnoni, Paul & Laura
Special thanks to Subway and volunteers from APS and Edward Jones!
DID YOU KNOW? The following companies will
MATCH
YOUR DONATIONS
to VYT if you designate them when making your contribution? AIG, Allstate, American Airlines, American Express, APS, Bank of America, Capital Group, Charles Schwab, Exxon Mobil, Freeport McMoRan, General Dynamics, Honeywell, IBM, Intel, KeatsConnelly, Liberty Mutual, Microoft, SRP, Unilever, Veritas, Wells Fargo and Western Refining
Performing Arts Classes Fall 2019 – Sept 21 thru Nov 14 Winter 2020 – Jan 18 thru Mar 12 Spring 2020 – Mar 28 thru May 21
Musical Theatre Camps Spring Break Camp 2020 Session #1 – Mar 9 thru 13 Spring Break Camp 2020 Session #2 Mar 16 thru 20 Summer 2020 Session #1 June 1 thru 26 Summer 2020 Session #2 July 6 thru 31
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 Joycelin Jacobs-Schwartz*........................................................... Production Stage Manager Tiffany Owen....................................................................................................General Manager Grace Perry.............................................................................................. Development Director Cozette Phifer............................................................... Marketing & Communications Director Kris Romero....................................................................................Audience Services Manager Madolyn Whitmer.....................................................................Education & Outreach Director *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 30 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 not-forprofit, 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. Renee Bioletto’s Renee is a native Arizonan and a former VYTMom. Her daughter, Payton, appeared in several VYT productions, which led to Renee volunteering to assist with our costumes. Since then, she has become Costume Assistant to our Resident Costume Designer, Karol Cooper. Together, they have worked to create costumes for dozens of VYT shows. Matt Brown (Technical Director) is excited for another Valley Youth Theatre 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 twoyear-old Max and Luke. Matt has a degree in Theatre with an emphasis in technical theatre from Angelo State University. He has worked at Childsplay and 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) 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 (Development Director) 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 (Marketing & Communications Director) 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 be a part of the VYTeam and to work directly with our volunteers, parents and patrons, as well as being a contributing member of the Phoenix arts community. Madolyn Whitmer (Education & Outreach Director) is thrilled to join the VYT team and further their mission to impart life skills to students through theatre and the arts. An arts enthusiast herself, Madolyn graduated from ASU with a BFA in theatre and a focus in playwriting. Madolyn has had plays produced in Arizona, Colorado and New York and has a passion for creating devised work with her students that explore their experiences. Previously, she worked with ARTS ALIVE! bringing experiential, dramatic arts classes to hundreds of students throughout the Houston area which focused on instilling social and emotional learning skills through the arts. At Playworks Arizona, Madolyn continued to work toward instilling social and emotional learning skills to children through play as a part of their Development team with a focus in volunteer coordination, management of large scale special events, and marketing. She is excited to bring her years of experience in the arts and non-profits to VYT and help continue to grow the education department to positively impact more lives.