DAYTON BALLET
DAYTON PHILHARMONIC
DAYTON OPERA
BRANDON RAGLAND
KEITARO HARADA
CHANDLER JOHNSON
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
MUSIC & ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
DR. TROY TYNER & DR. INGRID BROWN CHAIR
SPONSORED BY BARBARA N. O’HARA
DR. RON ANDERSON & ROBB SLOAN-ANDERSON CHAIR
Events
Dayton Ballet & Dayton Contemporary Dance Company Present: Rhythm of the City, 2026
September West Side Story September 26–27
October Hina & Fiona Play Saint-Saëns & Ravel October 17
A Midsummer Night’s Dream & Force Flux October 24–25
Young People’s Concert: Celebrating 250 Years Through Song, Music & Dance October 28
November Momentum
November 7–8
Barber Cello Concerto & Haydn’s Wartime Mass
Table of Contents
Dayton Philharmonic Junior Strings & Youth Strings: Find Your Voice
First Timers’ Guide ....................... 5
November 21
November 22
Artistic Directors ......................... 8 Company Dancers ...................... 10
Dayton Philharmonic Youth Orchestra: The Sound of Fate
Studio Company Dancers ........... 11
November 29
Today’s Program ................... I
December
Philharmonic Musicians ............. 13 Artists In Residence.....................16
The Nutcracker
Our Members ............................. 17
December 11–20
Meet the Artists of DPAA............ 21
SCAN TO LEARN MORE 2
Dayton Performing Arts Alliance
2026–2027
Corporate/Foundation Partners.....22 Board of Trustees and Staff......... 23
FROM THE LEADERSHIP
Dear Friends Welcome to the 2026–2027 Season! We are delighted you’re here with us. This is an especially exciting season because we now have the next generation of artistic leadership at the helm: three artistic directors who are creative and inspiring, building on the accomplishments of their wonderful predecessors and bringing us performances that are possible only in Dayton. In this new season, you will see collaborations between the art forms and performances in each art form that will thrill and delight you. In a topsy-turvy world, the arts can help us ground ourselves again, refresh our perspective, take us into other worlds made possible only by imagination, soothe our senses, and inspire our faith in humanity. The performing arts offer you sanctuary, escape, and adventure. This new season reflects a new artistic vision, but it also reflects the kinds of performances that you, our audiences, have demonstrated that you want. We hear you, we see you, and we’re responding. More than ever, DPAA can bring these thrilling performances to you at accessible, affordable prices only because of the generosity of our donors. Over 80% of our revenue comes from community support. Gifts of every level are the engine that powers the performing arts here in Dayton. Thank you for that support, and thank you for joining us.
Patrick J. Nugent President and CEO
Joseph Zehenny DPAA Board Chair
daytonperformingarts.org
(937) 228-3630
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Building what’s next.
Supporrng what inspires us.
Engineered. Manufactured. Installed. Right here in Ohio.
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Dayton Performing Arts Alliance
2026–2027
FIRST TIMERS’ GUIDE
Is this your first time at a DPAA event? If so, welcome! To ensure your visit is meaningful and enjoyable, we offer the following resources. Box Office The Dayton Performing Arts Alliance proudly partners with Dayton Live for its box office services. Contact the box office at (937) 228-3630 or visit the office in the Schuster Wintergarden. Restrooms / Family Restrooms Restrooms are available on each level of the Schuster Center and Victoria Theatre. An adult changing table is located in the family restroom on the Loge level. Accessibility DPAA is committed to providing access to the arts. If you have any specific needs or questions, please contact the box office.
Audio description is available upon request for patrons who have vision loss. Describers provide a live, objective, descriptive delivery of the visual elements of a performance in between the dialogue and/or music via a small receiver. Requests must be received two weeks prior to an event and are subject to the availability of the describer. Arrange by calling the box office. Assistive listening devices are available for all performances. Borrow a device from the kiosk in the lobby or from a house manager. Sign language interpretation is also available upon request for performances at the Schuster Center and Victoria Theatre. Requests for sign language interpretation must be received two weeks prior to the event and are subject to the availability. Call the box office to make a request. Military Appreciation and Discount Programs In addition to our standard military discount, DPAA offers a Military Appreciation Program for active-duty military members, retired veterans with ID cards, and WPAFB government civilian employees in the region. Each household may receive four free tickets annually. Contact the box office to redeem. Local Dining Make it a night on the town! We recommend the following options: Bistecca, Blind Bob’s, Joui, Lily’s, Lucho, Manna Uptown, Meadowlark Restaurant, Salar Restaurant and Lounge, Sueño, Table 33, and Wheat Penny Oven & Bar. Group Sales Groups of 10 or more can save up to 30% on tickets! Contact Audience Engagement & Experience Manager, Aleksandra Harkavy, at (937) 535-5452. Age Recommendation Our events are recommended for ages 6 and up.
Violinist Charles Yang greets fans in 2026.
Lost and Found / Security If you lose an item at a performance or need assistance from the security team, call (937) 6377366. For the safety of those in the audience, behind the scenes, and on stage, everyone entering the performance space is required to pass through metal detectors.
daytonperformingarts.org
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Dayton Performing Arts Alliance
2026–2027
THE KEITARO CIRCLE
Signature Support for the Music and Artistic Director of the Dayton Philharmonic The Dayton Performing Arts Alliance wishes to acknowledge Trustee Barbara N. O’Hara for not only spearheading the search committee for Keitaro Harada but also for her generosity and ongoing volunteerism in support of the continued fundraising initiative for Kei’s work. We thank Barbara and the following donors for their generosity in this ongoing fundraiser. She hopes to see your name included! Barbara N. O’Hara
Dr. Thomas G. Olsen & Mary Boosalis
Peter & Patricia Torvik
William* and Cynthia Uhl
Grismer Tire Company
Paul and Susanne Weaver
Nirmala Abraham & Scotty Blackburn
Sandra & Brian Woodruff
Drs. Mary & Charles Bane
Kathleen & Joseph Zehenny
Jane Dunwoodie
The Mary H. Kittredge Fund of The Dayton Foundation
Barbara & Leib Lurie Dr. Michael & Christine Manchester
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Artistic Directors
© Shon Curtis Photography
© Shon Curtis Photography
Brandon Ragland
Keitaro Harada
Brandon Ragland has more than a decade of professional experience as a dancer, choreographer, and educator. He trained in Birmingham, AL, and has a bachelor’s degree in Dance-Arts Administration from Butler University. After graduation, Ragland danced with Alabama Ballet, followed by Louisville Ballet in 2010, spending 13 years as a leading artist. A respected choreographer, Ragland choreographed works for Louisville Ballet, Alabama Ballet, Ballet Arkansas, AROVA Contemporary Ballet, Next Generation Ballet, Sedona Chamber Ballet, and The Perla Ballet. In 2017, Ragland was honored to perform with the Black Iris Project at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., as part of the Kennedy Center’s Dance Across America Program. He has received numerous awards, including “Best Artist” in Louisville Magazine and The Lift a Life Foundation’s “Emerging Leader in the Arts Award” from The Fund for the Arts.
Armed with intensity and depth, Keitaro Harada consistently provides riveting concerts and opera performances in Asia, the Americas, and Europe. As Music and Artistic Director of the Savannah Philharmonic since 2020, Harada has transformed the orchestra and energized its audiences throughout the community with his imaginative programs and charismatic presence.
Artistic Director, Ballet; Sponsored by Dr. Troy Tyner and Dr. Ingrid Brown
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Dayton Performing Arts Alliance
Music and Artistic Director, Philharmonic; Sponsored by Barbara N. O’Hara
In 2024, Harada was named Permanent Conductor of the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra, Principal Guest Conductor and Artistic Partner for the Aichi Chamber Orchestra, and he began a five-year tenure as Music and Artistic Director of the Dayton Philharmonic in the 2025–26 season. He has forged a close connection with the NHK Symphony Orchestra with whom he appears frequently and has recorded three albums. Harada is a recipient of the 2023 Sir Georg Solti Conducting Award.
2026–2027
© Curtis Brown
Chandler Johnson
Artistic Director, Opera; Dr. Ron Anderson and Robb Sloan-Anderson Chair
Chandler Johnson is an arts administrator and artistic leader who has dedicated his career to developing artists, shaping operatic programming, and advancing the future of the art form. He most recently served as Director of the Apprentice Program for Singers at the Santa Fe Opera, where he collaborated on season planning, casting strategy, budget forecasting, and long-term artistic initiatives for one of the nation’s leading opera companies. Prior to Santa Fe, Johnson held artistic administration positions with Los Angeles Opera, Opera Theatre of Saint Louis, and Stratagem Artists, contributing to casting, artistic planning, young artist development, and artist relations. Throughout his career, he has cultivated relationships with artists, managers, and arts leaders across the field while helping to create meaningful opportunities for emerging talent and supporting organizational growth and excellence. daytonperformingarts.org
(937) 228-3630
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Dayton Ballet Company Dancers Photo to come
Photo to come
Claire Bergman
Zachary Brikson
Christian Chester
Tomasin Corrente
Wyatt Dodd
Emma Duncan
Alyssa Eyster
Hailey Flanagan
Jasmine Getz
Katy Gilliam
Amber Huggett
Patrick Lennon
Tarique Logan
Jaiden Morley
Kyan Park
Maxwell Peters
Lukas Pringle
Francisco Rivera
Belle Urben
Catherine Voorhees
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Dayton Performing Arts Alliance
2026–2027
Dayton Ballet Studio Company Photo to come
Photo to come
Photo to come
Polina Ermacoff
Jessie Etling
Caitlin Federer
Photo to come
Photo to come
Photo to come
Emma McMahon
Kelsey Smith
Grace Thompson
Photo to come Mollie Juniewicz
Ava Kabealo
Isabelle Wilwayco
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The Arts Come in Many Flavors
For sixty years, the Miriam Rosenthal Foundation – Dayton’s Foundation for the Arts – has supported the arts across the Dayton region. Every stage that comes alive. Every young person who discovers the arts. Every season that goes on.
Support the arts you love.
miriamrosenthalfoundation.org/support
Partners in Sustaining the Arts
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Dayton Performing Arts Alliance
2026–2027
A Midsummer Night’s Dream & Force Flux October 24 & 25, 2026 • Victoria Theatre Dayton Ballet • Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra • Keitaro Harada, conductor
FORCE FLUX Choreography: Brandon Ragland Music: W.A. Mozart (Piano Concerto No. 13 in C major, K. 415) Piano: Joshua Nemith Costume Designer: Alexandra Ludwig Principal Ladies ...................................................................... Hailey Flanagan, Alyssa Eyster, ..................................................................................................Tomasin Corrente, Emma Duncan Principal Men ................................................... Kyan Park, Lukas Pringle, Christian Chester Soloists Ladies ........................................................ Jasmine Getz, Belle Urben, Katy Gilliam Corps Ladies .................................... Mollie Juniewicz, Emma McMahon, Amber Huggett, ................................................................... Isabelle Wilwayco, Polina Ermacoff, Jessie Etling, .............................................................................................. Catherine Voorhees, Jaiden Morley Corps Men................................................... Tarique Logan, Wyatt Dodd, Zachary Brickson, ......................................................................................................Patrick Lennon, Maxwell Peters - INTERMISSION PROGRAM CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
The Ballet Series is generously supported by The Shubert Foundation, Peggie & Mike McQuiston, and Dr. Michael & Christine Manchester. Dayton Ballet Dancer Sponsorship is provided by Dr. Jeffrey & Susan Mikutis.
Today's Program
I
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Choreography: Alun Jones Music: Felix Mendelssohn Stager: Helen Daigle Soprano: Hanna Atsedewoin Mezzo-Soprano: Sarai Burgos Stivers School for the Arts Choir Magnet Director: Kelsey DeMange Costume Design: David Walker
Costumes Courtesy of Ballet West • Adam Sklute, Artistic Director Queen Titania ........................................................................................................ Claire Bergman King Oberon ........................................................................................................... Patrick Lennon Puck ................................................................................................................................... Kyan Park Changeling Child ................................................................................................. Madeline Susco Peaseblossom ........................................................................................................... Alyssa Eyster Moth .............................................................................................................................. Katy Gilliam Mustardseed ......................................................................................................... Hailey Flanagan Cobweb ...................................................................................................................... Jasmine Getz 12 Fairies .................................................... Caitlin Federer, Emma McMahon, Kelsey Smith, .................................................................. Emma Duncan, Amber Huggett, Polina Ermacoff, ............................................................... Isabelle Wilwayco, Jessie Etling, Tomasin Corrente, ......................................................................... Ava Kabealo, Jaiden Morley, Grace Thompson Changling Child Assistants .................................. Sophia Krapf, Cheyenne Lok Suet Yeng Hermia ............................................................................................................ Catherine Voorhees Lysander .............................................................................................................. Christian Chester Helena ............................................................................................................................ Belle Urben Demetrius .......................................................................................................... Zachary Brickson Bottom ........................................................................................................................ Lukas Pringle Rustics ............................. Mollie Juniewicz, Wyatt Dodd, Tarique Logan, Maxwell Peters
CREATIVE TEAM Lighting Designer ..................................................................................................... Jesse AlFord Production Stage Manager ................................................................. Megh Jennings-Posner Assistant Stage Manager ............................................................. Dylan Serrano, Katie West Ballet Rehearsal Director .................................................................... Rachel Cahayla-Wynne Rehearsal Assistant/Company Teacher ................................................. Sharon Neumeister Assistant Conductor ........................................................................................ Caleb Thompson Wardrobe Supervisor ..................................................................................... Lyn Baudendistel Wardrobe Assistant ............................................................................ Josephine Baudendistel Ballet West Wardrobe Supervisor ................................................................. Elizabeth Fisher
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Today's Program
From the Director ©Shon Curtis
Brandon Ragland
Artistic Director of the Dayton Ballet Tonight’s program puts two very different kinds of storytelling side by side. Each one gets its full power from live music played by our partners at the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra. Force Flux is about energy: how it gathers, shifts, collides, and moves on. When I made this work, I wanted to see what happens when dancers push the limits of momentum and balance, and how a group of individuals can become one force that keeps changing. It is athletic and fast, and it lives in the moment. I hope you feel its pulse in your seat. Then we step into a moonlit forest with Alun Jones’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Shakespeare’s comedy of mismatched lovers, mischievous fairies, and one very unlucky weaver has delighted audiences for centuries. Jones’s choreography captures all of it: the wit, the romance and the magic. It is classical ballet at its most charming, and it is a joy to share it with you. Nights like this remind me why live performance matters. Musicians and dancers breathe together, respond to each other, and create something that will never happen exactly the same way again. I’m deeply grateful to the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, to our extraordinary dancers, artistic staff and production team, and to the students of Dayton Ballet School, who represent the future of this art form in our city. Most of all, thank you for being here. Your presence, support, and applause keep ballet alive in Dayton. Enjoy the performance! Today's Program
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About the Artists
Alun Jones
Joshua Nemith
Alun Jones (1937–2019) led Louisville Ballet as Artistic Director from 1978–2002. Born and educated in Wales, he danced with the Welsh National Opera, London’s Festival Ballet, and Zurich Opera Ballet, and was a founding member of the New London Ballet. He and Helen Starr joined Louisville Ballet in 1975 to help establish The Louisville Ballet School. He catapulted the Company into local and global success, presenting 78 world premieres and 65 Louisville premieres, increasing subscriptions exponentially, and arranging for the renowned Mikhail Baryshnikov to perform with the Company twice. He remained a prominent regional and global figure in the arts, serving on the jury for the European Stage Dance Union contest in Croatia and as a member of the International Dance Council in Greece. In 1998, he received the Milner Award, Kentucky’s highest award in the Arts, and in 2002 received the Louisville Forum’s Fleur-de-Lis Award.
Joshua Nemith is Principal Keyboardist of the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance, a position he has held since 2007.
Choreographer
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Today's Program
Piano
Dr. Nemith is involved in many other facets of the local music industry as well: he is a well-established private instructor with over two decades of experience, a frequent judge of area competitions, and as a collaborative pianist, he performs with many artists in live concert as well as in recordings. He earned a doctorate in piano performance at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music in 2004. Other accomplishments include fellowships at the Aspen Summer Music Festival and the New World Symphony. Dr. Nemith is an alumnus of the University of Texas at Austin and the Eastman School of Music; his teachers include James Tocco, Michael Chertock, Nancy Garrett, Fernando Laires, and David Burge.
Hanna Atsedewoin
Sarai Burgos
Ethiopian-American soprano Hanna Atsedewoin has gained valuable experience on the concert stage performing as a featured soloist in Pittsburgh Festival Opera’s concert entitled “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” where she performed the song cycle Heart on the Wall by Robert Owens.
Sarai Burgos is a mezzo-soprano from Fairfax, Virginia. She received her Masters of Music at the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University (IU). Burgos made her IU Opera Theater debut as Prince Orlofsky in Die Fledermaus. She returned to the mainstage as L’enfant in L’enfant et les sortilèges and appeared in the opera chorus of Cendrillon. Under the direction of Carol Vaness and Dr. Zachary Coates, she portrayed Concepcion in Ravel’s L’heure Espagnole in an Opera Workshop.
Soprano
As an emerging artist with the Milnes VOICE Studio, she had the opportunity to perform in the 2021 VOICE Gala hosted by Thomas Hampson, singing “Dream Variation” from Three Dream Portraits by Margaret Bonds. Originally from Dallas, Texas, Atsedewoin holds a Master of Music in Vocal Performance from Carnegie Mellon University and a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from the University of Louisiana at Monroe. During her time in academia, she performed roles such as Monica in The Medium, Josephine in H.M.S. Pinafore, Lola in Gallantry, Madame Herz in Der Schauspieldirektor, and Amelia in Whaling Women. Most recently, Atsedewoin performed with Opera Arlington as Zweite Knabe in Die Zauberflöte.
Mezzo-Soprano
Burgos received her Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Liberty University (LU) in Lynchburg, Virginia. With the LU Opera Theater, Burgos performed the roles of Cherubino in Le nozze di Figaro and Prince Orlofsky in Die Fledermaus. She won the 2024 Concerto/ Aria Competition and performed as a soloist with the LU Symphony Orchestra. Burgos spent three years as a Young Artist with Opera Roanoke where she performed the role of Hansel in Hansel and Gretel and Laetitia in The Old Maid and the Thief. In 2023, she portrayed Nerone in Chicago Summer Opera’s production of Agrippina. Today's Program
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Helen Daigle
Jesse AlFord
Originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Helen Daigle trained at Decatur School of Ballet, Dancer’s Workshop, Joffrey Ballet School, and School of American Ballet. She began her professional career with Feld Ballets/New York and later danced with Ballet Hispanico and Miami City Ballet.
A former circus performer and coach turned Lighting Designer, Jesse AlFord is from Southern California, but has settled in Louisville after graduating from Washington State University. He is the Lighting Director and Resident Lighting Designer at Louisville Ballet, and has enjoyed an award-winning freelance career spanning more than a decade, working with organizations including Kentucky Shakespeare, Cincinnati Ballet, Kentucky Opera, The Va Va Vixens, Circus Flora, The Big Apple Circus, Westchester Circus Arts, The Tennessee Williams Festival St. Louis, Stage One Family Theater, Louisville Orchestra, Pandora Productions, Time Slip Theater, Theatre [502], and many more across the country. He has designed more than 250 productions for over 35 organizations. Working in circus, dance, theatre and more, he specializes in the moments and productions that happen in between those disciplines.
Stager
Daigle joined Louisville Ballet in 1998, performing for 20 seasons in featured and principal roles in works including Serenade, Giselle, Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty, and Don Quixote. She has originated roles in works by Val Caniparoli, Amy Seiwert, Helen Pickett, and Adam Hougland. As a stager, Daigle has brought Hougland’s Rite of Spring, Cold Virtues, and Fragile Stasis to companies including Louisville Ballet, Cincinnati Ballet, Tulsa Ballet, Kansas City Ballet, and Smuin Ballet. She also served as Hougland’s rehearsal assistant for Ten Beautiful Objects and Petrouchka. A Louisville Ballet School faculty member since 2005, Daigle continues her work with Louisville Ballet as Principal Répétiteur and Senior Rehearsal Director. VI
Today's Program
Lighting Designer
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Felix Mendelssohn
Born in Salzburg, Austria, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was one of history’s most extraordinary musical talents. A child prodigy, he demonstrated remarkable abilities as a pianist, violinist, and composer, touring Europe under the guidance of his father, Leopold Mozart.
Born in Hamburg, Germany, Felix Mendelssohn (1809–1847) was a gifted composer, conductor, and pianist whose music bridged the elegance of the Classical era and the expressive spirit of Romanticism. A child prodigy, he began composing at an early age and became one of the most celebrated musicians of his generation.
Composer
Mozart settled in Vienna in 1781, establishing himself as an independent composer and performer. His prolific career produced masterpieces across nearly every musical genre, including symphonies, concertos, chamber music, sacred works, and opera. Among his celebrated works are The Marriage of Figaro, Don Giovanni, The Magic Flute, and the Jupiter Symphony. Composed in 1783, his Piano Concerto No. 13 in C major, K. 415 reflects the elegance, brilliance, and expressive charm of his early Vienna years. Written for his own performances, the concerto balances sparkling virtuosity with graceful orchestral dialogue. Despite financial hardships, Mozart continued composing until his death at age 35, leaving an extraordinary musical legacy that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Composer
Mendelssohn’s remarkable career included conducting Leipzig’s Gewandhaus Orchestra, founding a music conservatory, and championing the revival of Johann Sebastian Bach’s music. His celebrated works include the Italian and Scottish Symphonies, Violin Concerto in E minor, and the oratorio Elijah. At just 17, Mendelssohn composed the enchanting overture to Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, brilliantly capturing the play’s magical world of fairies, romance, and mischief. Seventeen years later, he expanded the work with incidental music, including the beloved Wedding March. His imaginative score continues to inspire theatrical and ballet adaptations, bringing Shakespeare’s timeless fantasy to life through music and movement. Today's Program
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Coming Soon
The Nutcracker December 11–13 & 18–20, 2026 Brandon Ragland, choreographer Keitaro Harada, conductor Caleb Thompson, conductor Dayton Ballet Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra The Nutcracker returns, bringing holiday magic back to Dayton! Set in our very own city, this beloved tale follows Clara on a breathtaking, time-traveling adventure filled with dazzling choreography by Artistic Director Brandon Ragland, enchanting sets and costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. A heartwarming tradition for all ages, The Nutcracker is the perfect way to celebrate the season with loved ones.
Get tickets now! (937) 228-3630 • DaytonPerformingArts.org VIII
Today's Program
Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra Musicians Photo to come
VIOLIN I
Zulfiya Bashirova Concertmaster1
Aurelian Oprea Associate Concertmaster2
Koko Watanabe Assistant Concertmaster3
Maggie Niekamp
Photo to come Youjin Na
Mikhail Baranovsky
Louis Proske
John Lardinois
David Goist*
Kirstin Greenlaw, Principal4
Kara Camfield, Assistant Principal
Ann Linn Baer
Gloria Fiore
Nick Naegele
Yoshiko Kunimitsu
Bill Slusser
Yein Jin
Sheridan Currie, Principal5
Colleen Braid, Assistant Principal
Karen Johnson6
Leslie Dragan
VIOLIN II
Scott Moore
VIOLA
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CELLO
Scott Schilling
Lori LaMattina
Mark D. Reis
Belinda Burge
Jonathan Lee, Principal
Christina Coletta, Assistant Principal7
Molly Castrucci8
Lucas Song9
Oleg Babkov
Deborah Taylor, Principal10
Jon Pascolini, Assistant Principal
BASS
Nadine Monchecourt
Zoë Moskalew
FLUTE AND PICCOLO
Stephen Ullery
Christopher Roberts
James Faulkner
Bleda Elibal
OBOE AND ENGLISH HORN
Elvin Schlanger, Principal*11
Jennifer Northcut Acting Principal
Photo to come Will Stevens
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Janet van Graas
Eileen Whalen, Principal12
Photo to come
CLARINET
Robyn Dixon Costa
Dayton Performing Arts Alliance
John Kurokawa, Principal13
2026–2027
Krista Weiss
BASSOON
HORN
Rachael Young, Principal14
Kristen Smith
Photo to come Amy Lassiter
Sean Vore
TRUMPET
Sarah Yarbrough
TROMBONE
Charles Pagnard
Aaron Brant, Principal15
Eli Ross Principal16
Photo to come
Eric Knorr Acting 3rd Trumpet
Adam Almeter Principal17
TUBA
TIMPANI
Chad Arnow18
Photo to come
Timothy Northcut, Principal19
Richard Begel
Photo to come Kaleb Hascall Principal20
PERCUSSION
HARP
Michael LaMattina, Principal21
Davi Martinelli de Lira*22
Jerry Noble
KEYBOARD
Leslie Stratton, Principal23
Joshua Nemith, Principal24
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Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra Endowed Chairs * 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
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Denotes leave of absence J. Ralph Corbett Chair Huffy Foundation Chair Sherman Standard Register Foundation Chair Jesse Philips Chair F. Dean Schnacke Chair Grace Counts Finch Chair Edward L. Kohnle Chair in Memory of Andra Lunde Padrichelli, Principal Cellist 2003–2018 Gilbert and Patricia Templeton Chair
9 Paul and Susanne Weaver Chair 10 Dayton Philharmonic Volunteer Association/C. David Horine Memorial Chair 11 Dayton Philharmonic Volunteer Association Chair 12 Catharine French Bieser Chair 13 Rhea Beerman Peal Chair 14 Robert and Elaine Stein Chair 15 Frank M. Tait Memorial Chair 16 John W. Berry Family Chair
17 John Reger Memorial Chair 18 Bill and Wanda Lukens Chair 19 Zachary, Rachel and Natalie Denka Chair 20 Rosenthal Family Chair in Memory of Miriam Rosenthal, In Honor of Donald Donnett, Principal Timpani 1966–2023 21 Miriam Rosenthal Chair 22 Richard A. and Mary T. Whitney Chair 23 Daisy Talbott Green Chair 24 Demirjian Family Chair
Dayton Opera Artists In Residence
Hanna Atsedewoin, Soprano 16
Sarai Burgos, Mezzo-Soprano
Dayton Performing Arts Alliance
Alexander Gushrowski, Tenor 2026–2027
Kade Bennett, Baritone
Calvin Stovall, Pianist
Our Members Make the Magic! Special thanks to all our DPAA Members who keep the classical arts thriving in Dayton with their annual donation.+ VISIONARY DPAA’s Visionary Circle recognizes those Members who generously give $10,000 and above. GRAND IMPRESARIO ($250,000+) Estate of Kenneth Sagstetter Thomas & Frances Bankston IMPRESARIO ($100,000+) Paul & Dolores Anderson Dr. Troy Tyner & Dr. Ingrid Brown Dr. Charles & Patti Demirjian Steve & Lou Mason Barbara N. O’Hara Peter & Patricia Torvik AFICIONADO ($50,000+) Kate & Steve Hone Diana Lee Langer Jones Peggie & Mike McQuiston Lee Monnin Mr. & Mrs. Jonah Sandler and Family Thomas Steiglehner & Mary Johnson Estate of Kathleen J. Turner VIRTUOSO ($25,000+) John & Kathleen Beran David & Maria Berry Allyson & John Danis Ms. Susan Kettering Juanita & Luke Lovell Patrick J. Nugent & Mary Kay Rehard Dr. David H. Ponitz & Cathy Ponitz Tim & Mary Riordan Ann & Harry Santen Linda & Miles Schmidt Bill & Diane Schneider Robert & June Shillman Thomas & Sharon Williamson Estate of Raymond E. Wylam
LUMINARY ($10,000+) Anonymous (1) Nirmala Abraham & Scotty Blackburn Dr. Ron Anderson & Robb Sloan-Anderson Drs. Mary & Charles Bane Esther & David Battle Dr. & Mrs. Thomas D. Brown Catherine Clark Jim Crosset Estate of John & Martha Culp Janice Culver & Eugene Kurtz Dr. Grace L. DeVelbiss Jane A. Dunwoodie Janet & Vernon Fernandes Daniel Freese Janet & Donald Grieshop Stanley C. Herr Lesley & Chris Hopkins Karen Duguid & Dr. Wally Johnson Dr. R. Alan Kimbrough Kathleen I. Clawson Judith & Michael Kreutzer Dr. Joe Law & Philip G. Wise Leib & Barbara Lurie Dr. Michael & Christina Manchester Ken & Darrell May Dr. Jeffrey & Susan Mikutis Milt & Dawn Ross Matthew J. Scarr Marcy Schade Richard & Jane Schwartz Dr. Eric Street in memory of Eduardo “Ed” Valles Cynthia Uhl Dr. Byron & Theresa Wade Paul & Susanne Weaver Marcia & Walter Wood Sandra & Brian Woodruff Kathleen & Joseph Zehenny
CENTER STAGE ($5,000+) Anonymous (1) Margy Anderson Craig Brown & Rebecca Appenzeller Shirley Ark Mary Arnett Dr. Gwen L. Brubaker Thomas & Joan Burkhardt Barbara J. Campbell Sharon J. Danosky Daniel & Linda Deitz Richard M. DeLon Pat & Dave Diven Mark Dlott & Dale Goldberg Mark Duffy & Tony Talbot Estate of Patricia Evanko & Nihat Akture Susan & Jonas Gruenberg Keitaro Harada Charlie Hardwick Kathy Harper Nancy Hoover` Jessica & Derek Huggett Leora K. Kline Carol & Paul Lamberger Susan B. McCoy & Allen Kennedy Karen & Dale Medford Anna Jones Monnett Dr. C. Daniel Raisch & Kathy Raisch Diane & William Schaff Sharon Lindquist-Skelley & Thomas F. Skelley Michael Suhar Betsy B. Whitney Dr. Daniel Zehringer & Justin Mohler OVATION! ($2,500+) Anonymous (3) Mert Adams Jennifer & Bill Almoney Dan & Vicky Archibald Amy Askins & Chris Schairbaum Mr. & Mrs. Karl C. Ayers JAnn H. Barr
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Mr. Ronald Bernard & Dr. Judith E. Woll M.D. Dr. Bob Brandt, Jr. Mr. Ronald F. Budzik* & Ms. Barbara A. Hayde Janet & Joseph Burke Sarah & Mike Burns Patrick Martin & Eva Buttacavoli Barbara & Chris Coombs Dr. Robert & Lisa Custer William DeVenzio* & Linda Short Charlene & David Dutton Robert & Susan Ellefson Sue Falter Ms. Marilyn R. Fischer Nancy & Thomas Gaudion John & Andrea Gillespie Mrs. Carol Graff David J. & Lois Ann Gribler Dr. David & Pamela Griffith Douglas Hahn & Melody Goodwin Mr. Anthony L. Haugrud* Marge & Jon Hazelton Mr. & Mrs. Donald M. Heinrich Craig & Margarete Jennings Kenneth J. & Micheline D. Kuntz Fund Brittany Laughlin Dr. William & Kathy Lindahl Drs. Jerry Clark & Barry McCorkle Judy D. McCormick James & Deborah McCutcheon Pat & David McDonald David McElwee Mr. Kenneth McNeal William Mitchel Helen C. Potter Bill & Carmen Perry James & Ellen* Ratti Dominick & Margaret Rinaldi Greg & Kimberly Robinson Scott Silverstein & Christina Coletta June & Richard Smythe John & Susan Spacht Rick & Tawnya Stover Lois & Roger Sutherland Jeri & John Tate Fred & Chris Tokarz Dr. Edward & Tracey Tomme Mrs. Sharon A. Tschudin Congressman Mike Turner Mr. Michael Tyrchniewicz & Dr. Rachael Courtney James & Tami Whalen Lt. Col & Mrs. Robert W. Wilda Penny & Bill Wolff Timothy & Miriam Wood
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BRAVO! ($1,000+) Anonymous (11) Mr. Joshua E. Adams The Albert & Nancy Freudenberger Fund* Charles & Irene Allbery Karen & Bruce Anderson Matt & Jo Anderson Juanita & Richard Angel Scott Arentsen Mike & Karen Armstrong Mary C. Combs & Michael R. Bachmann Morgan Stanley Barney Thomas & Lyn Baudendistel The Honorable Bill & Karen Beagle Mike & Ginny Beamish Martha L. Bell Sheila Bergin Lois & Donald* Bigler Jon Blunt & Rodney Veal Janet & Steven Boehmer Mary & Dan Bowman Charlette & Bob Buescher Brian & Lisa Bullerman Rebecca & Lawrence* Corson Karen & Gary Crim Bryan & Susan Daly Kathleen Daly Susan DeLuca Helen & Rosario Demers Mr. Sterling Depew Ms. Tina Devries Rebecca Dianis Mr. C. Bruce Driver Mrs. Sue Dugan Dr. Margaret M. Dunn & Dr. William A. Spohn Mr. Joseph Flanagan Marcia Frank* (2025 Bequest on behalf of Delta Omicron Foundation) The Fraze Family Fund Mrs. Renate Frydman Martha & Joseph Gardner Lt. Col. Frank & Diane Gentner, USAF Ret. Elaine Gounaris & Mark Winwood Dr. Sharon D. Gratto & Thomas P. Gratto Mindy & Garry Greene Rita Gujadhur Bill & Sandy Gunlock Terri & John Jon & April Hale Rip & Denise Hale Dr. Bruce & Mayumi Hall Mr. John C. Halpin* & Ms. Dorothy B. Dick Thomas Hanley
Dayton Performing Arts Alliance
2026–2027
Bob Hanna Chris & Monna Harman Mary & Richard Harstad Virginia & Del Herbeck Carol & William Herrick Patricia Hill The Holland Family Trust Dr. Jeremy Holtgrave & Dr. Amy Magnus Jacqueline Housel & Howard Sizek Jeffrey Huntington Dr. Tyron & Frances Inbody Dr. Michael A. Jaffe M.D. Brent Johnson & Josh Stucky Sandi Simmons & Tom Jonak Tim & Effie Sue Kemerley Dr. Caroline Kennebeck-Hale & Dr. Brian Hale Dr. Brian & Linda Kent Jennifer & Robert Kitchen Margaret Klein Chuck Knickerbocker Barb Kuhns James Kurek & Linda Black-Kurek Kathryn Lamme Raymond & Catherine Lane Kathryn & James Lange Susan J. Lauf Dr. James T. Lehner & Hon. Peggy Lehner Cheryl & Franklin Lewis Wendy & Vincent Lewis Robyn Lightcap George & Barbara Long Mr. Joe Lutz Kathryn MacVeigh Amy Radachi & Tom Maher Moni & George Malacos Joyce McDonald Marc & Melissa McNulty Penni & Thom Meyer Rita Miller Arthur D. Mills Jr. Mary & Peter Moenter Jim Nathanson Shannon Joyce Neal & Phillip Neal Ruth & John Neely Susan & Shaun P. Nicholson Dianne & Les Niemi Susan K. Henry & Perry Nystrom Jeaunita Ìfewándé Château Olówè Mark Olson & Barbara Furyk-Olson Ronald D. Patrick John Phillips Nat Croumer & Jeff Pizza Cynthia & Robert Puskar
Rebeccah & Nicholas Raines Timothy B. Ray Sarah Enterline Roch & Joshua Roch Alice & Charles Roedersheimer David Rohlfing Patricia Roth Lisa & Thomas Routsong Patti Russell-Campbell Colleen M. Ryan David A. Saelens, Ph.D. Alice & Burt Saidel Susan & Dan Sauer Richard & Katharine Schaefer Beth & Alan Schaeffer Winnie Scholl Sharon Schroder Ann & Bill Schuerman Marie & James Seiler Brian P. Sharp Catherine Skardon Stephanie Skelley Dori & Tim Spaulding Tina & Mike Spaulding Gaynelle M. Spiegel Toni Sprinkel Joan Stonitsch Phyllis Strayer Dr. Charles Taylor & Kim E. Iconis Ms. Ruth Templeton Dennis & Kathleen Turner Mary T. Tymeson Musicians of the DPO & Staff of DPAA, in memory of C. Donald Compton Frank & Janet Van Graas Sharon Vander Gheynst, D.M.E. Malte & Dr. Pam Von Matthiessen Julie & Jud Wallner LN Wasserman Merle Wilberding & Susan Elliott Janice Finch Willhelm Jane & John Winch Mary & Niels M Winther Veronica & Jeffrey Winwood Virginia Wood Sarah & David Wrazen Carol J. Yegerlehner Dr. David Zelmon & Dr. Mojgan Samardar
Members Make the Magic! DPAA Members keep the classical arts thriving in Dayton with their annual donation—join the community now!
Give Today Inspire Tomorrow
* Deceased + List updated as of August 2026
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Dayton Performing Arts Alliance
2026–2027
Meet the Artists of DPAA Go behind the scenes with the artists whose passion drives every performance.
Alyssa teaching a young dancer at the Dayton Ballet School.
Michael LaMattina
Michael LaMattina
Alyssa Eyster
I am the Principal Percussionist of the Dayton Philharmonic and the percussion professor at Miami University. I’m also the principal percussionist with the Lancaster (OH) Festival Orchestra and I perform with the Cincinnati Symphony as an extra and substitute musician. During the course of my career, I’ve held positions with orchestras in Columbus, Colorado, and Pennsylvania.
I first trained at Cincinnati Ballet’s Academy before attending the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, and after dancing with Nashville Ballet II and Minnesota Ballet, it has been meaningful to find myself back in Ohio. I love teaching at Dayton Ballet School, and it’s especially fun getting to share the stage with my students and see them watching from the wings. As I enter my fourth season at Dayton Ballet, I am most looking forward to performing Andrea Schermoly’s Appalachian Spring in April. We first worked with Andrea on Klein Perspectives in 2025, and I’m excited about the opportunity to collaborate with her again. I’m also particularly excited to perform with a live orchestra onstage for that show. We often perform with the orchestra, but having the musicians onstage with us creates a completely different connection and energy than when they are in the pit.
Principal Percussion, Dayton Philharmonic
Company Dancer, Dayton Ballet
I began playing drums when I was seven, first studying with my father while growing up on Long Island, NY. I became interested in playing with an orchestra as my musical studies progressed throughout middle school and high school, ultimately attending the Oberlin Conservatory of Music for undergraduate studies and completing my MM at Cleveland State University. View my work online at youtube.com/c/ MichaelLaMattinaPercussion.
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Corporate and Foundation Partners We thank our corporate and foundation partners for supporting DPAA’s mission, programs, and artists.* IMPRESARIO AES Ohio Foundation Virginia W. Kettering Foundation Jesse and Caryl Philips Foundation Miriam Rosenthal Foundation for the Arts Schiewetz Foundation Harry A. Toulmin, Jr. and Virginia B. Toulmin Fund of the Dayton Foundation MAESTRO The Charles D. Berry Foundation The Berry Family Foundation Grismer Tire Company VIRTUOSO Accelevation Dayton Freight Bill and Jackie Lockwood Fund to Support Opera LEGATO Dayton Aerospace Dayton Daily News/Cox First Media Hotel Ardent & Bistecca Kettering Health The Mary H. Kittredge Fund of The Dayton Foundation Marriott University of Dayton Brian Sharp of The SharpGroup of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Professional Realty The Shubert Foundation The Troy Foundation The Nick and Edna Weller Charities, Inc. CONCERTO Bank of America Cox Media Group/WHIO Discover Classical 88.1 WDPR/89.1 WUSO/ 89.9 WDPG Jack and Debra Edelman Foundation The Charles F. Kettering Foundation Mathile Family Foundation ARIA America 250—Ohio Commission The Clark J. Haines Musical Scholarship Fund Houser Asphalt & Concrete The Iddings Foundation Lockwood Family Foundation ThinkTV Thompson Hine
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Dayton Performing Arts Alliance
SONATA Crown Equipment Corporation The Dayton Hydraulic Co. Johnson Investment Counsel The Kuntz Foundation Nova Creative Physicians’ Charitable Foundation PNC Premier Health INTERMEZZO AES Ohio Coolidge Wall Enterprise Roofing Harlamert Foundation Henny Penny Key Ads, Inc. KeyBank League of American Orchestras Sam Levin Foundation McCutcheon Music Morris Home Pickrel, Schaeffer & Ebeling The Reynolds and Reynolds Associate Foundation Sinclair Broadcast Group/FOX/ABC Woodhull LLC OVERTURE ABC 22/Fox 45 The Rubi Girls Square One Salon and Spa Taft Voss Auto Network Wayne & Clover Coffee Shop ADDITIONAL MAJOR SUPPORT PROVIDED BY: National Endowment for the Arts Ohio Arts Council Montgomery County Arts and Cultural District Culture Works The Dayton Foundation * List updated as of August 2026
2026–2027
Board of Trustees and Staff OFFICERS Joseph Zehenny, Chair Patricia McDonald, Vice Chair Rev. Joshua Ward, Secretary Rodney Veal, Assistant Secretary Timothy Riordan, Treasurer Patrick Martin, Assistant Treasurer
Michelle Mastin, Conductor, Philharmonic Junior Strings Jordan Millard, Conductor, Philharmonic Youth Strings Sharon Neumeister, Company Teacher & Rehearsal Assistant Lois Clark Ramey, Q the Music Orchestra Coordinator Carolyn Sweezy, Manager, Philharmonic Chorus Caleb Thompson, Assistant Conductor Rachel Cahayla Wynne, Rehearsal Director & Dayton Ballet Studio Company Manager
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Dr. Nirmala Abraham Dr. Ron Anderson Libby Ballengee Dr. Zachary Beck Ashley Bethard Sarah Burns Jim Butler Christopher Coombs Allyson Danis Dr. Samuel Dorf Jamie Fisher Kathy Harper Michael Howard Dr. Xavier L. Johnson Robyn Lightcap Chandler Martin Peggie McQuiston Dr. Laura Middleton Shannon Joyce Neal Barbara N. O’Hara Sharon Schroder Dori Spaulding John Tate Abbie Trittschuh Dr. Schneata Shyne Turner Dr. Daniel Zehringer
DEVELOPMENT Elaine Gounaris, Vice President for Philanthropy Allie Haines, Director of Philanthropy Lynnette Ivey, Director of Institutional Giving Kate LaFollette, Director of Membership Engagement Anne O’Hara, Development Operations Manager LEARNING & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Jeaunita Ìféwándé Château Olówè, Vice President for Learning & Community Engagement Jacqueline Griffin, Learning Programs Manager Melissa McCoy, Engagement Programs Manager Megan Forney, Dayton Ballet School Education Manager; Co-Director of Dayton Ballet School Ensemble Vicky Archibald, Ballet School Receptionist MARKETING Brittany Laughlin, Vice President for Marketing & Audience Development Aleksandra Harkavy, Audience Engagement & Experience Manager Sandyna Woodward, Marketing Coordinator
ARTISTIC DIRECTORS EMERITUS Thomas Bankston, Opera Kathleen Clawson, Opera Neal Gittleman, Philharmonic ADMINISTRATION Patrick J. Nugent, President & CEO Teri Warwick, Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operating Officer Michael Sieveking, Chief Information Officer Milena Treer, Chief of Staff ARTISTIC Keitaro Harada, Music & Artistic Director, Philharmonic Chandler Johnson, Artistic Director, Opera Brandon Ragland, Artistic Director, Ballet Maureen Hickey Haitch, Conductor, Philharmonic Youth Orchestra Steven Hankle, Director, Philharmonic Chorus
OPERATIONS Lyn Baudendistel, Wardrobe Supervisor Josephine Baudendistel, Costume Assistant Matthew Benjamin, Director of Production Maureen Hickey Haitch, Librarian Dylan Serrano, Production Coordinator/Assistant Stage Manager Sean Vore, Orchestra Personnel Manager Katie West, Production Coordinator/ Assistant Librarian The stagehands of IATSE Local 66 The wardrobe members of IATSE Local 886
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G E N E R O U S LY S U P P O R T E D B Y HARRY A. TOULMIN JR. AND VIRGINIA B. TOULMIN FUND OF THE DAYTON FOUNDATION JESSE AND CARYL PHILIPS FOUNDATION BILL AND JACKIE LOCKWOOD FUND TO SUPPORT OPERA MARY H. KITTREDGE FUND OF THE DAYTON FOUNDATION JACK AND DEBRA EDELMAN FOUNDATION
ADDITIONAL MAJOR SUPPORT PROVIDED BY