Who All Over There?

WHO ALL OVER THERE?

by Torie Wiggins

The arts reveal what matters most.

PNC is proud to support Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati. The arts make us think, make us feel, and make us wonder. Thank you for helping to make our community a beautiful place.

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D. Lynn Meyers, Producing Artistic Director

WHO ALL OVER THERE?

by TORIE WIGGINS

Directed by STORI AYERS† April 11 – 30, 2023 Scenic & Lighting Designer BRIAN c . MEHRING

Sound Designer MATT CALLAHAN

Costume Designer AHARON SIMONE

Wig Designer NIGEL C. MASK Technical Director JACK MURPHY

Properties Curator/Design Assistant SHANNON RAE LUTZ Production Stage Manager MARGOT WHITNEY*

Assistant Stage Manager LEXI MULLER*

THE VIDEOTAPING OR MAKING OF ELECTRONIC OR OTHER AUDIO AND/OR VISUAL RECORDINGS OF THIS PRODUCTION IS A VIOLATION OF UNITED STATES COPYRIGHT LAW AND AN ACTIONABLE FEDERAL OFFENSE.

WHO ALL OVER THERE? has been commissioned by Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati.

All rights are retained by Torie Wiggins and Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati.

*Member belongs to Actors’ Equity Association, the union of professional actors and stage managers. This theatre operates under an agreement between Actors’ Equity Association, Professional Actors, and Stage Managers in the United States. Understudies never substitute for listed players unless a specific announcement is made at the time of the performance.

†

PREMIERE SPONSOR

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2022–2023 SPONSORS

Photo by Ryan Kurtz

SEASON PRESENTING SPONSOR

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SEASON FUNDER

OPERATING SUPPORT

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FAIRY GODMOTHER SPONSORS

SEASON SUPPORT City of Cincinnati Susan Friedlander Hamilton County Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile, Jr. Foundation Mitchell S. and Jacqueline P. Meyers Foundation The Shubert Foundation IN-KIND SUPPORT Cincinnati State Technical & Community College, Interpreter Training Program Suder’s Art Store

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2022–2023 sponsors

EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT, & INCLUSION SPONSOR

EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT, & INCLUSION SUPPORT Anonymous (2) Arts Midwest William P. Anderson Foundation William J. Baude - Maurice E. Oshry Fund of the Greater Cincinnati Foundation Donald C. and Laura M. Harrison Family Foundation Betty Huck Mr. & Mrs. David E. Moccia The Daniel & Susan Pfau Foundation Charles Scott Riley III Foundation The John A. Schroth Family Charitable Trust, PNC Bank, Trustee Nellie Leaman Taft Foundation The Thaman Family Fund Jennifer Verkamp The Dennis B. & Patricia L. Worthen Fund

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CAST & CREW CAST John Martin..................................................................................................................KENNETH EARLY* Scot Lancaster............................................................................................................BLAKE GEHRING Danya Martin......................................................................................... MALIYAH GRAMATA-JONES Petunia "Aunt Toonie" Thompson.............................................KYNDRA DYANNE JEFFERIES Deirdre Martin........................................................................................................ KEISHA L. KEMPER Dean Willis.................................................................................................................SPENCER LACKEY* Sebastian "Truck" Martin......................................................................................................JAY WADE*

RUNNING CREW 2nd Assistant Stage Manager/Wardrobe Apprentice..........................................EMILY MISALI Assistant Director/Assistant House Manager/Crew Swing....................ANDREA BEASLEY Sound Board Operator.............................................................................................ELEXIS SELMON Running Crew.................................................................................................................... CHAR ADAMS Wardrobe Crew..................................TIMOTHY BELTON, CAROLINE MARINO, EMMY RICE Light Board Operators............................................. CHANELLE DAU PINO, CHRIS LIPSTREU

PRODUCTION TEAM Assistant Stage Manager............................................................................................... LEXI MULLER* Associate Technical Director................................................................................. JACOB DOWELL Intimacy Choreographer.................................................................................................... ERIN CARR Scenic Charge Artist/Production Assistant.................................................................RAE KUHN Costume Supervisor.............................................................................................. BROOKE ARTHUR Production Master Electrician............................................................................... CHRIS LIPSTREU Sound Technician.......................................................................................................... NICK KOEHLKE

*Member belongs to Actors’ Equity Association, the union of professional actors and stage managers. Understudies never substitute for listed players unless a specific announcement is made at the time of the performance.

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cast & crew

CAST & CREW UNDERSTUDIES Sebastian "Truck" Martin.....................................................................................ANDREA BEASLEY Dean Willis................................................................................................................. TIMOTHY BELTON Danya Martin.................................................................................................................ELEXIS SELMON

SETTING Cincinnati, Ohio, in September of 2019.

This production will be performed in one act with NO intermission.

Approximate running time is 1 hour, 45 minutes.

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cast & crew

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FROM THE PLAYWRIGHT One of the things I love most about the original Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner is that it’s a love story. I love love stories. You know why? Because they are predictable. It’s the predictability that gives us comfort and makes us feel good watching the journey­—love will always win. You’re rooting for the couple the whole time and, finally, at the end you get the satisfaction of seeing it all work out. They have proven that love conquers all.

But does it?

I believe that true love forces you to confront who you are, who you were, and who you hope to be. I hope you enjoy the story of these young lovers learning how to see each other while falling in love. What they see will determine if love can really win.

In this story, feel free to root for the love that sees. ­—Torie Wiggins

THE BEST

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From the Playwright

FOR DREAMS OF ALL KINDS Materials inspired by Who All Over There? courtesy of The Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library.

Visit CinLib.org/over-there for more!

BOOKS

MOVIES

A Dash of Salt and Pepper

Guess Who's Coming to Dinner The Lovebirds

by Kosoko Jackson

The Girl I Am, Was, and Never Will Be: A Speculative Memoir of Transracial Adoption

MUSIC Curtain Call 2

by Shannon Gibney

by Eminem

Good Intentions: A Novel

by Kasim Ali

My Name is Jason. Mine Too: Our Story, Our Way

by Jason Reynolds

Borrow these materials online or at your nearest library branch.

Love Marriage: A Novel

by Monica Ali

etc essentials A FREE conversation series with local scholars and community members that explores the themes of our productions.

WHO ALL OVER THERE? | APRIL 23, 2023 @ 1:00 PM

Relationships can be complicated, even on stage. As our society progresses, new roles are being established in the theatre community to address cultural nuances and physical and emotional safety on stage. Learn from local intimacy coaches and cultural consultants about their role in the theatre and why it is so vital.

MAYTAG VIRGIN | JUNE 11, 2023 @ 1:00 PM

With the rise of social media, dating apps, and online communication, we have begun to lose the power of the love letter. Learn from local writers and love experts about the art of the written “woo-rd” and how to compose love letters for the special people in your life.

Admission is FREE, but reservations are required!

Reserve online or through the ETC Box Office

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ABOUT US OUR MISSION Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati (ETC) is a professional theatre dedicated to producing world and regional premieres of works that often explore compelling social issues. We fulfill our mission through our stage productions and educational outreach programs that enlighten, enliven, enrich, and inspire our audiences.

OUR HISTORY From its founding in 1986, ETC has focused on providing an artistic home for local theatre professionals, including serving as a training ground for young artists. Each season, ETC produces a lineup devoted to the newest in contemporary theatre that attracts a diverse audience of 30,000 to more than 220 performances. Our work also includes education and engagement programs centered on introducing the performing arts to students from under-resourced schools and children with disabilities.

Combined, our productions and educational programs strive to fulfill ETC’s vision of creating an urban arts district that is accessible to all.

(513) 421–3555 1127 Vine Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 www.ensemblecincinnati.org

BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS Kathy DeLaura, Chair Jeffrey Schloemer, President Kathy Burklow, Vice President Linda Holthaus, Vice President Mike Schueler, Treasurer Meggan Thompson, Secretary DIRECTORS Erica Bock Holly Brians Ragusa Otto M. Budig, Jr. Tom Carothers Charles H. Gerhardt, III Beverly A. Grant Stephen M. King Anthony McNamara D. Lynn Meyers, ex officio Shekhar Mitra Nilesh Patel Darryl A. Peal Richard L. Postler Leah Quortrup Maura Schilling Alex Schutte Mary Stagaman Torie Wiggins Ashlee Young Erica Zaretsky DIRECTORS EMERITI Skip Hickenlooper Edward G. Marks FOUNDERS' CIRCLE Ruth D. & John Sawyer Ken & Mary "Murph" Mahler Dr. Charles O. Carothers Mitchell S. Meyers

This Theatre operates under an agreement between the League of Resident Theatres and Actors' Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati is a member of Theatre Communications Group (TCG), the national organization for the American theatre.

INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING?

Accredited member of the Better Business Bureau.

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Contact our team at Cincinnati Magazine for information: advertise@CincinnatiMagazine.com

ABOUT ETC

OUR STAFF LEADERSHIP

D. Lynn Meyers, The Ruth Dennis Sawyer/Mary Taft Mahler Producing Artistic Director & Chief Executive Officer Michael R. Zimmer, CPA, CGMA, Chief Financial & Operations Officer Josh Neumeyer, Managing Director

ARTISTIC

Brian c. Mehring, Resident Scenic & Lighting Designer Shannon Rae Lutz, Properties Curator & Design Assistant Rae Kuhn, Scenic Charge Artist & Production Assistant Professional Apprentice Program Shannon Rae Lutz, Director of Apprentice Programming Torie Wiggins, Apprentice Program Associate Professional Apprentices: Andrea Beasley • Timothy Belton Caroline Marino • Emily Misali Emmy Rice • Elexis Selmon

DEVELOPMENT

Jennifer Joplin, Director of Development

EDUCATION

Victoria Aslanides, Director of Education Emily Bush, Education Associate Daniela Nenova, Education Associate Teaching Artists: Becca Howell • Julie Locker

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

Jocelyn Meyer, Director of Marketing & Communications Amy J. Barbian, Associate Director of Marketing & Communications Rachel Kazee, Digital Marketing Coordinator Becca Schall, Creative Media Producer

OPERATIONS

Jared D. Doren, Programming & Events Manager Nick Ligon, Head of Security Anna Sheridan, Administrative Coordinator

PATRON SERVICES

Amy Weinstock, Box Office Manager Box Office Associates/House Managers: Melody Lindner • Sharisse Santos • Becca Schall Bartenders: Carter Bratton • Burgess Byrd • Jacob Dowell Lori Hiltenbeitel • Wyn Jones • John Simpson

PRODUCTION

Jack Murphy, Technical Director Jacob Dowell, Associate Technical Director Brooke Arthur, Costume Supervisor

STAGE MANAGEMENT

Margot Whitney, Production Stage Manager Lexi Muller, Assistant Stage Manager

LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati acknowledges that we gather on the unceded and stolen territories of the Hopewell, Adena, Myaamia (Miami), Shawandasse Tula (Shawanwaki/Shawnee), and Wazhazhe Ma'zha' (Osage) peoples. We honor with gratitude the land itself and the people who have stewarded it since time immemorial.

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PLAY IN PROGRESS

Spencer Lackey & Maliyah Gramata-Jones

Kenneth Early

Maliyah Gramata-Jones & Spencer Lackey

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Play in Progress

Keisha L. Kemper

PLAY IN PROGRESS

Jay Wade, Kenneth Early, Maliyah Gramata-Jones, & Keisha L. Kemper.

Spencer Lackey, Maliyah Gramata-Jones, & Stori Ayers.

Kyndra Dyanne Jefferies

Blake Gehring & Spencer Lackey

Play in Progress

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k A New Dish on k

Guess Who's Coming to Dinner The landmark 1967 Supreme Court ruling of Loving v. Virginia struck down bans against interracial marriage, only days after filming completed on one of the most influential films on that very subject, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner (which also serves as inspiration for Who All Over There?). It’s easy to forget how recent this was—only 55 years ago. For context, the guaranteed right for interracial couples to marry is younger than the invention of the computer mouse, actress Halle Berry, and even Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, which had its first production in 1960. But in 1967, even progressive whites who claimed to support interracial marriages were likely to feel differently once the reality of those relationships knocked on their door. Enter Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner.

The Plot Thickens (Spoiler alert for 1967 film!)

In San Francisco, well-to-do liberal Matt Drayton (Spencer Tracy) runs a newspaper while his wife Christina (Katharine Hepburn) owns an art gallery. Their 23-year-old daughter Joey (Katharine Houghton) returns from vacation with her new fiancé, Dr. John Prentice (Sidney Poitier), a 37-year-old Black widower and highly successful doctor who works with the UN and the World Health Organization. Following a tenday whirlwind romance, the two became engaged. John must leave for Switzerland that night for his work with the WHO, and Joey plans to join him shortly, thus wanting to get married as soon as possible. John, knowing how shocked and uncomfortable the Draytons are at the surprise engagement, confides in them that he'll only marry Joey with their permission, but having to leave that night puts a tight timeline on it.

Suddenly, the Draytons’ liberal beliefs are put to the test: are the couple, who raised their daughter not to judge others based on their skin color, actually okay with interracial relationships once their own daughter is part of one? Although shocked at first, Christina comes around, but Matt’s fear of the difficulties the couple will face leaves him reluctant. To add to quandary, Joey has spontaneously invited John’s parents. Like Joey, John hasn’t told his parents about the elephant in the room, and John Sr. and Mary Prentice (Roy Glenn and Beah Richards) are just as shocked to discover that Joey is white.

Christina and Mary, though initially surprised, agree in supporting their children, but John Sr., just as disapproving of the union as Matt, argues with his son. Mary gives a passionate speech about how they all must’ve forgotten how powerful falling in love is.

Both fathers are moved by her wisdom, and Matt acknowledges that John and Joey’s decision to marry was never truly in his hands. Before heading to the dining room to finally eat, Matt concludes that while the couple will certainly encounter challenges and discrimination, love will help them overcome.

Mixed Palates Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner holds a place in cinematic history largely for two reasons. First, it was movie legend Spencer Tracy’s last film as he died ten days after

filming. Second, it was one of the first movies to depict an interracial relationship positively rather than something doomed to tragedy.

The film was a box-office and critical hit, becoming the best-selling Columbia film at the time. It was also nominated for ten Academy Awards, winning two; landed a spot in the top 100 greatest movies ever; and further cemented Sidney Poitier (who had already become the first Black man to win a competitive Oscar) as an acting legend, a box-office hit, and a Black icon. It was hailed for its witty dialogue and use of comedy mixed with drama (what we’d call a modern dramedy), leaving audiences both laughing and crying and ultimately leading to important discussions about race.

Even with these achievements, audiences have pointed out some of its flaws. Most notably, Poitier’s character, Dr. John Prentice, is critiqued as being too perfect. How could any parent be against their daughter marrying a charming, well-educated, and internationally renowned doctor? However, director Stanley Kramer and writer William Rose countered that this was intentional. Having John be so upstanding meant that the only possible objections the Draytons could have against his marriage to Joey were his skin color or the short timeline of their romance.

Although groundbreaking, the movie was primarily for white audiences. It was challenging white progressives to come face-to-face with their proposed beliefs and ask themselves if they could walk the walk and not just talk the talk. Many critics think it didn’t go far enough to confront racial prejudice, and even actress Katharine Houghton (who played Joey) admitted that the film likely didn’t do anything for civil rights. Still, the film became a symbol for relationships that weren’t generally approved of, including interracial and queer marriages.

New Recipes Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner’s legacy continues not just through societal impact but also through new art. A stage play was first produced in 2012 and is now regularly performed around the country. In 2005, the loose adaption called Guess Who, starring Bernie Mac and Ashton Kutcher, reversed the roles (much like our play is doing) by having a Black woman (Zoe Saldana) bring her white boyfriend home. However, that movie focused much more on the comedy of the situation rather than dramatic insight into interracial couples.

Jordan Peele’s hit 2017 horror comedy Get Out also takes inspiration from Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, but infuses a fresh take. That film presents a similar but modern scenario of a Black man (Daniel Kaluuya) meeting his white girlfriend’s (Allison Williams) liberal parents for the first time. While Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner challenges white progressives to address and recognize their internal bias, ending on a hopeful note, Get Out explores Black horror as it relates modern racism and the systemic exploitation of Black people in an infinitely more sinister plot than its predecessor.

Torie Wiggins didn’t plan for Who All Over There? to be an update to the 1967 classic, but after starting to write it, she understood how it remixed the story, exploring modern interracial relationships, Black experiences within those relationships, and whether love is enough. You’ll soon see how her story has its own differences to the celebrated classic.

CAST KENNETH EARLY (John Martin) is honored to return to the Ensemble Theatre stage to be part of this production. He was last seen at ETC as Aldrin in The Dancing Princesses, and some of his other credits include Pipeline, Red Velvet, The Whipping Man, Grey Gardens, Alice in Wonderland, Snow White, and Around the World in 80 Days. He has also been seen in productions at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, The Human Race Theatre Company, and Actors Theatre of Louisville.

BLAKE GEHRING (Scot Lancaster) (he/him) is grateful to be working with Ensemble Theatre for his first time. He received his BFA from Northern Kentucky University, where he studied radio/TV/film and theatre. He most recently attended the Theatre Training Institute under the direction of Ken Jones. Following graduation, Blake spent several years in Los Angeles pursuing acting and stand-up comedy. A few of his favorite theatre credits include Brighton Beach Memoirs, Young Frankenstein, The Shape of Things, The Full Monty, and Dearly Departed. He would like to thank his amazing parents, family, and friends who have rooted him on for nearly twenty years; Lynn Meyers and Becca Schall for the generous film opportunities over the past few years; and everyone else at ETC for this incredible opportunity to work on this stage.

MALIYAH GRAMATA-JONES (Danya Martin) (she/her) is so excited to be back at Ensemble Theatre, where she was last seen as the quiet but fierce #00 in The Wolves. Some of her other Cincinnati credits include Puffs and Red Bike at Know Theatre of Cincinnati, Titus Andronicus at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, and many beautifully “weird” projects through the Cincinnati Fringe Festival. Maliyah currently lives in Brooklyn, NY, teaches yoga, and is a dog mom to an adorable Doberman pup.

KYNDRA DYANNE JEFFERIES (Petunia "Aunt Toonie" Thompson) (she/her) is excited to be making her debut with Ensemble Theatre, and she couldn’t be more thrilled to join them for the world premiere of Who All Over There? by the accomplished Torie Wiggins. She is a native of Cincinnati and an alum of the School for Creative and Performing Arts. Kyndra has performed in various productions in the area including Disney's Descendants, The Wiz Jr., Annie Jr., Superman, and Mary Poppins Jr., The Children's Theatre of Cincinnati; Bourbon at the Border, Falcon Theatre; Memphis, Loveland Stage Company; and Disney's Newsies, Warsaw Federal Incline Theater. Her film credits include Dark Waters and The Old Man and the Gun. She sends a heartfelt thank you to all family and friends who have supported her while pursuing her passion.

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Cast

CAST KEISHA L. KEMPER (Deirdre Martin) (she/her) is excited for her debut performance with Ensemble Theatre! She is a native of Cincinnati and graduated from the University of Cincinnati–College Conservatory of Music with her BFA in dramatic performance. Her regional credits include Weezy in Alabaster and Harry in Harry and the Thief, Know Theatre of Cincinnati; Chorus/Nurse in Prokofiev: Suite from Romeo and Juliet, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra; (Story) Teller in The Bradbury Tattoos: An Experimental Rock Opera, Concert:Nova; Maria, Captain, and First Officer in Twelfth Night, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s Shakespeare in the Park; and Amanda Wingfield in The Glass Menagerie, New Edgecliff Theatre. Keisha would like to thank her family and friends for their continued support.

SPENCER LACKEY (Dean Willis) (he/him) returns to Ensemble Theatre, where he was last seen in the virtual production of Side Man. He is an actor and composer based in Brooklyn, NY. His regional theatre credits include Barefoot in the Park, Queens Theatre; Shakespeare in Love, Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey; and The Other Rhine, Know Theatre of Cincinnati. His film and TV credits include Notzilla, Healing River, and Dead of Winter on Discovery ID. Spencer has a BFA in acting from the University of Cincinnati College–Conservatory of Music.

JAY WADE (Sebastian “Truck” Martin) (he/him) is proud to be back for his third full production at Ensemble Theatre, where he played the role of Omari in Pipeline by Dominique Morrisseau and, most recently, Chris in Sweat by Lynn Nottage. Jay would like to express his admiration for the entire ETC staff. He appreciates their dedication to bringing great and important works of art to the community, and for always welcoming him with homely and loving arms. Thank you. As always, Jay dedicates his performance to his family for their undying love and support.

LET’S THEATRE TOGETHER @ EnsembleCincy Cast

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CREATIVE TEAM TORIE WIGGINS (Playwright) (she/her) has been a storyteller all her life. She has co-adapted and performed a one woman show, Your Negro Tour Guide, at various venues across the country, with a grand finale here at Ensemble Theatre as part of a double bill with I Shall Not be Moved by Isaiah Reaves. She has performed with many local theaters, including Know Theatre of Cincinnati, Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati, The Human Race Theatre Company, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, and Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. She has also worked with WAM Theatre in The Berkshires and The Resident Acting Company in New York City. Her directing credits include We Are Proud to Present… and Good Kids at Miami University Department of Theatre, Dreamgirls and Proof at The Carnegie Theater, I Shall Not Be Moved at Ensemble Theatre, and Blues for an Alabama Sky at Falcon Theatre. After being commissioned for smaller projects, her first play, See Me, was selected to be a part of ETC’s justice-themed 10 Minute Connections. She is excited to be making her full-length playwriting debut as a world premiere at ETC! She thanks her loving husband Aaron for his limitless support in all her endeavors.

STORI AYERS (Director) (she/her) is a storyteller. She's a New Yorkbased actor, director, and co-founder of [RARE] Lotus Productions.

She is originally from Washington, D.C., and has a passion for stories that challenge, ignite, and inspire. Stori is excited to return to Ensemble Theatre after having previously directed Skeleton Crew in 2019. She recently directed the world premiere of Confederates by Dominique Morisseau at Signature Theatre in NYC, for which she won an Antonyo Award for Best Direction (off-Broadway) and received a nomination for Outstanding Direction from the Drama League. Her other directing credits include Paradise Blue, Geffen Playhouse; Blood at the Root, Chautauqua Theatre Company; and Night Vision and Third Grade; Playing on Air. Stori was honored to serve as the Associate Director of Skeleton Crew on Broadway. With her love for young artists, Stori has also directed at the University of Michigan, Penn State University, and Mary Baldwin University. She assistant directed the world premiere of August Wilson's one-man show How I Learned What I Learned at the Signature Theatre in New York City starring Ruben Santiago-Hudson. She was the 2018 and 2019 Directing Fellow at Chautauqua Theater Company where she assistant directed An Octoroon (Dir. Giovanna Sardelli), Into the Breeches (Dir. Laura Kepley), One Man Two Guvnors (Dir. Andrew Borba), and Amish Project (Dir. Sarah Wansley). Stori is a proud member of SDC and AEA; holds a BA from Mary Baldwin University and an MFA in Acting from Penn State University; and is the former executive assistant to writers Dominique Morisseau and Katori Hall. Currently, Stori works as a writer’s assistant to Dominique Morisseau, serving in the development of new musicals, plays, pilots, and films.

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Creative Team

CREATIVE TEAM D. LYNN MEYERS (Producing Artistic Director) (she/her) has been with Ensemble Theatre for over twenty-five years, having directed more than a hundred world and regional premieres, including Fun Home, The Wolves, Ripcord, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, The Legend of Georgia McBride, Hands on a Hardbody, I Am My Own Wife, Next to Normal, Tiny Beautiful Things, and the world premiere of The Dancing Princesses. She began her career as the Associate Artistic Director at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, has directed off-Broadway at the York Theatre, and has directed extensively throughout the US and Canada. As a member of the Casting Society of America, Lynn's recent feature credits include Carol, The Old Man and the Gun, and The Public, in addition to serving as the Location Casting Director for The Shawshank Redemption. Lynn recently directed the world premiere of Fierce for the Cincinnati Opera. She was named a finalist for the Zelda Fichandler National Award in 2011, is a past recipient of the YWCA Career Woman of Achievement Award, and received the 2018 Rosa F. and Samuel B. Sachs Fund Prize for her regional arts impact and leadership.

Creative Team

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PRODUCTION TEAM BRIAN c. MEHRING (Scenic & Lighting Designer) (he/him) has designed more than one hundred productions at Ensemble Theatre. His favorite productions include Thom Pain (based on nothing), Next to Normal, 33 Variations, Freud's Last Session, and I Am My Own Wife. Brian’s regional favorites for set design include The Last 5 Years and I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park; Henry IV, Part 1, The Georgia Shakespeare Festival; and I Am My Own Wife, Actors Theatre of Louisville, Peterborough Players, and Florida Studio Theatre.

AHARON SIMONE (Costume Designer) is elated and humbled to be working with Ensemble Theatre for the first time. She is happy to have collaborated and helped build this story with this incredible company. Aharon is currently costuming, designing, and styling in NYC. She is also a current Wardrobe Dresser for Moulin Rouge! The Musical on Broadway. Aharon would not be where she is today without the support of her family, The Fab Five+ more—WE ARE ALL WE GOT. She would also like to save the best for last by extending the sweetest love to her wife, Harper Sierra Paige MilesThomas—you are everything I saw in my dreams multiplied by infinity. I love you baby.

MATT CALLAHAN (Sound Designer) (he/him) was the Resident Sound Designer for Actors Theatre of Louisville for seven seasons. Some of his recent designs for Ensemble Theatre include Queen, Cinderella, and Pipeline. He was also a co-creator/designer of Rock n’ Roll: The Reunion Tour. He spent two seasons as the Resident Sound Designer at The Eugene O’Neil Center for their National Playwrights Conference. He was formerly the sound engineer for Steppenwolf Theatre, the Assistant Engineer for Blue Man Chicago, and a member of the disbanded Defiant Theatre. He received a Jeff Citation for Red Dragon, a nomination for Fortinbras, and a Kevin Kline nomination for Sherlock Holmes.

NIGEL C. MASK (Wig Designer) is a hair stylist and entrepreneur that has offered awardwinning services for over 15 years. A native of Mansfield, Ohio, Nigel is the owner of Nigel’s Gifted Hands, LLC, based here in Cincinnati. He earned a BA in Psychology from the University of Cincinnati and his MS in Executive Leadership and Organizational Change from Northern Kentucky University. Nigel is a public speaker and consultant who seeks to spread his knowledge of hair education and his philosophy on the relationship between hair care and personal wellness to the world. He has partnered with community based organizations and institutions of higher learning to bring enlightenment on various topics related to the beauty industry. His professional work has been featured in Southern Bride Magazine and Cincinnati Magazine and can be seen reoccurring on Netflix and ABC Network.

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Production Team

PRODUCTION TEAM SHANNON RAE LUTZ (Properties Curator/Design Assistant) (she/her) earned her Master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music in 1996 and became Properties Curator at Ensemble Theatre. Trained as a performer, she first appeared on ETC’s stage during the 1988-1989 New Works Festival. In 1991, she was granted an ETC internship. Now the Director of Apprentice Programming, she is honored to guide ETC’s Professional Apprentice Company. Shannon would like to thank D. Lynn Meyers, Ruth Sawyer, and the Cincinnati theatre community and patrons for their generous, supportive, and tenacious spirit.

JACK MURPHY (Technical Director) (he/him) is excited to be part of another season at Ensemble Theatre! He grew up in the Cincinnati area and studied technical theatre at Hanover College. While there, he spent his summers at several different summer stock theatres as a carpenter. After graduation, he moved to Bellport, NY, to work for The Gateway Playhouse as a carpenter and rigger and went on to work for Norwegian Cruise Line. After another summer at the Janiec Opera Company as the Assistant Technical Director, he came full circle and returned home to Cincinnati. In 2013, Jack joined the team at ETC, where his favorite productions include An Iliad, Grounded, and Fun Home. He is excited to do the cutting edge work for which ETC is known.

Production Team

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PRODUCTION TEAM MARGOT WHITNEY (Production Stage Manager) (she/her) is thrilled to be back at Ensemble Theatre this season! Her previous credits include Sweat on Broadway and the first national tours of Mean Girls, Come From Away, Bright Star, The King & I, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella, and War Horse. She has worked with The Public Theater, Signature Theatre Company, New York Stage and Film, Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, La Jolla Playhouse, Virginia Opera, Cincinnati Opera, Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati during the 2012-2013 Season, and Cincinnati Ballet. Margot received her BFA from the University of Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music. She would like to send her love and thanks to family and friends!

LEXI MULLER (Assistant Stage Manager) (she/her) is delighted to be back at Ensemble Theatre, where some of her credits include Fun Home, The Wolves, Skeleton Crew, and Fly By Night. Other regional credits include Sex with Strangers, The House, and 26 Pebbles with The Human Race Theatre Company. She is a proud member of Actors’ Equity Association and a graduate of Wright State University, where she received her BFA in Stage Management. Lexi would like to thank her friends, family, and her extraordinary mother for supporting her every step of the way.

RAE KUHN (Scenic Charge Artist/Production Assistant) (any/all) is in their sixth season at Ensemble Theatre. Rae graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a Multidisciplinary degree focusing on fine arts, creative writing, and neuropsychology; however, technical theatre has been a hobby since high school. Rae is a former scenic artist for 3DX and has worked in stage management, sound engineering, and special effects makeup for organizations including New Edgecliff Theatre, Falcon Theatre, and Cincinnati Landmark Productions. Rae began painting backdrops for ETC's Education Department, which led to their current position at ETC, where their favorite credits are Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Bloomsday, and When We Were Young and Unafraid.

For more content about this production, including behindthe-scenes photos, videos, interviews and more, visit www.ensemblecincinnati.org

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Production Team

In Concert

APR 28-30, 2023 Music Hall

cincinnatipops.org/ragtime • 513.381.3300

Set in the early 20th century, Ragtime explores themes of race, class and gender within a tumultuous period of social and political change in America. Strong, painful language is used within dramatic depictions of the ongoing struggle for civil rights and social justice. Due to this, the Cincinnati Pops’ performances of Ragtime are recommended for audiences age 13+.

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WAYS HEADER A TO GIVE From playwrights to apprentices, and every role in between, your tax-deductible gift to ETC enables us to enlighten, enliven, enrich, and inspire audiences, as well as create a thriving urban arts community accessible to all through our world and regional premiere productions and award-winning Education, Engagement, and Inclusion programs. Become a member of our Ensemble today!

DONATE TODAY

DONATE BY PHONE

The box office will be happy to accept your gift via cash, check, or credit card during intermission or after the show.

Please call (513) 421–3555 and select option 4 to speak with Josh.

DONATE ONLINE

Send a check made out to Ensemble Theatre with "donation" in the memo line to:

To make your gift online, visit www.ensemblecincinnati.org/ support.

DONATE WITH STOCK

For instructions on stock transfers, email development@ensemblecincinnati.org.

DONATE BY MAIL

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati Attn: Development 1127 Vine Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202

BECOME AN ENSEMBLE SUSTAINING DONOR Join an essential group of donors who contribute on a recurring basis throughout the year, providing a steady and predictable stream of income to support programming and operations. Most choose monthly amounts charged to a credit card, but options can be customized to meet your giving goals and needs. Email development@ensemblecincinnati.org to become a Sustaining Donor today.

GIVE WHILE YOU SHOP Before you fill your shopping cart, whether in person or online, designate ETC as your nonprofit beneficiary through the Kroger Community Rewards program. It's easy: you shop and Kroger donates a portion of your purchase amount directly to ETC!

Register your Kroger Plus Card at www.kroger.com and select ETC–organization BM374.

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ways to give

THE PREMIERE SOCIETY The Premiere Society recognizes the extraordinary individuals, families, and organizations whose generosity makes it possible for ETC to present world-class new works and awardwinning education, engagement, and inclusion programming for our community. The following list includes donors whose gifts were received between March 23, 2022–March 23, 2023.

PLAYWRIGHTS ($20,000+) ArtsWave Gale & Dave Beckett Daniel Brown & Mark Haggard The Otto M. Budig Family Foundation The City of Cincinnati Burton & Susan Closson The Charles H. Dater Foundation, Inc. The Carol Ann & Ralph V. Haile, Jr. Foundation Hamilton County, Ohio The Donald C. & Laura M. Harrison Family Foundation* LKC Foundation The Mitchell S. & Jacqueline P. Meyers Foundation Ohio Arts Council State of Ohio through the Cultural Facilities Commission PNC Foundation The John A. Schroth Family Charitable Trust, PNC Bank, Trustee Mike & Digi Schueler The Schueler Group The Shubert Foundation, Inc. Louise Taft Semple Foundation US Small Business Administration

PRODUCERS ($10,000-$19,999) Arts Midwest Denise & Martin Chambers John & Gloria Goering Family Gift Fund Betty Huck Diane & Dave Moccia Palmer/Graber Family Fund Robert & Adele Schiff Family Foundation Dudley S. Taft Foundation Dale Uetrecht

DIRECTORS ($5,000-$9,999) Anonymous William J. Baude - Maurice E. Oshry Fund* Marcia Banker & Jeff Schloemer† Tom & Annette Carothers Dan Collopy Corky & Rick Family Foundation Crosset Family Fund* William & Mary Jane James Johnson Investment Counsel Nellie Leaman Taft Foundation The Sittenfeld Family Mary Stagaman & Ron Kull Thaman Family Fund*

DESIGNERS ($2,500-$4,999) Anonymous (2) William P. Anderson Foundation Michael Cioffi & Rachael Rowe Family Foundation Fund* Susan Cohen & Robert Schmuelling Ehrsam Family Fund* Jane & Chip Gerhardt Greater Cincinnati Foundation Marilyn P. & Joseph W. Hirschhorn Fund* Anu & Shekhar Mitra Neal Patel & Dr. Avani Modi Damon & Holly Ragusa Sprout Insight, LLC Vinkolet Winery

STAGE MANAGERS ($1,000-$2,499) Anonymous (3) Gordon Allen & Linda Baas Americana Arts Foundation Nicholas Apanius Bank of America Charitable Foundation Bank Of America Employee Giving Campaign Judith & Louis Belli Malcolm A. & Glenda Bernstein* Michael Berry & Melanie Garner Bryson Family Charitable Fund Jeff & Gay Bullock Barbara Carr & Bren Blaine Cissell Family Fund* Philip Clayton Kathy Collins & Joseph Giglia Meredythe G. & Clayton C. Daley, Jr. Family Fund* Rick & Allison Edwards Fencl Family Fund* Bob & Mary Fitzpatrick Gilman Family Fund* Dr. & Mrs. Richard Glaser Karen Grass Dr. Robert & Suzanne Hasl Fund Linda Holthaus & Richard Zinicola JBVS LLC Robert Keith & Kathleen Thornton Keith Chris Lewis & Alicia Bond-Lewis Sophia McAllister Messer Construction Jill & Bruce Mitchell Molly North Marilyn & Jack Osborn Joyce Rich Mr. & Mrs. Gates T. Richards Charles Scott Riley III Foundation Blake Robison & Connan Morrissey Jessica Ruebusch

Please bring any errors or omissions to our attention by contacting Josh Neumeyer: jneumeyer@ensemblecincinnati.org or (513) 421-3555 x2103.

* A Fund of The Greater Cincinnati Foundation † Sustaining Donor

the premiere society

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STAGE MANAGERS CONT. Jane Ruwet Hopson & Larry Pytlinski Alex & Kim Schutte Marvin & Betsy Schwartz Fund* Robert & Eleanor Shott Philanthropic Fund Norma Skoog Richard & Kathleen Strenk Glenda Suttman Meggan Thompson Bob & Sue Trusty Jennifer Verkamp Charitable Fund Sonia Wagener Woodward Family Charitable Foundation The Dennis B. & Patricia L. Worthen Fund

CAST ($500-$999) Christine Adams Laura Atkinson Wilma & Herbert Beigel Walter Blair Richard M Block Family Foundation David Brashear Dawn & Doug Bruestle Brian & Elizabeth Coley Philip K. & Anne Lilly Cone Fund* Craft Family Fund David Crotty & Joan von Handorf Mark Dauner† Kelly M. Dehan Kathy DeLaura & Ron Steinhoff† Jan Denton Sandi Gans† Rita & Dennis Geiger Bob Gerding Daniel Hurley Keith & Patti James Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies Matching Gifts Program Amy Katz & Robert Cohen Anita & Ed Marks Joseph & Lori McDonough Anthony & Emily McNamara Carol Miller Meibers John & Deborah Moffatt Patti Myers & Alan Flaherty Overbeck Charitable Fund Whitney Owens & David Eslinger Family Fund Alice Perlman Presidential Plaza Associates, LTD Hera G. Reines Peggy Robinson Alis Rule Robinson Kenneth & Kathleen Skau Susan & David Smith Kate Spencer & Doug Morriss Dr. Joseph & Mrs. Nancy Stratman Maureen & Larry Vignola Karen & Barry Webb Mary Ann & Edwin T. Weiss, Jr. Kathryn Wright Wuerdeman Family Fund*

RUNNING CREW ($250-$499) Anonymous (2) Tricia & Michael G. Bath Mary Ann Bender David & Elaine Billmire

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the premiere society

Erica Bock Mark Bowen† Cassandra Brissette Peg & John Bruggeman Ann & Lee Bulger Denny & Mindy Burger† Nancy Cisneros Carol C. Cole John & Cynthia Cozad Paul & Bev Diamond† Elaine Drakos Dennis & Catherine Dunwoodie† Keith Faber Barbara Feldmann Rose & Daniel Gahl William Groneman & Maureen Flanagan Charitable Fund The Gumbleton Family Judy & Alan Guttman Len & Jakki Haussler Bob & Judy Heaton Richard & Lauren Hess James & Robin Huizenga Pinky & Sam Kocoshis Carmen & Rich Kovarsky Kroger Community Rewards Program Warren Leight Carol Leslie† Limestone Fund* John & Kathy Lorenz Jackie Mack & Ted Silberstein Richard & Barbara Males David L. Martin The McCready-Shore Family Dr. Ralph R. Meyer Steven & Jacqueline Miller Family Foundation The Honorable Norbert & Linnea Nadel Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Neda & Bruce Nutley Paul & Mary Ann Odegard Brett Offenberger & Douglas Duckett Timothy & Joanne Oppelt Over-the-Rhine Chamber of Commerce Darryl Peal Chris Philpotts & Pam Schall Caroline Richards Holly Riffe & Sue Roth† Al Roane† Marianne R. Rowe J.R. Rulon† Dick & Chris Russell Maria Saldivar Alfred & Stephanie Sassler Mikki Schaffner Maura Schilling Martha & Lee Schimberg Jane Bogart Sellers† Arnie & Ina Shayne Eli E. Shupe, Jr. & Toby Ruben† Michael Siegrist John & Martha Spiess Fred & Anne Straus Charitable Fund Linda Tache Scott & Sally Tieke Marty C. Tomb Anita Trotta Alan & Margie Ullman Rosalie P. van Nuis Priscilla S. Walford Scott & Vicki Walker Buzz Ward Ann & Victor Warner

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR DONORS! To join our family of contributors with a donation of any size, please contact Josh Neumeyer: (513) 421-3555 x2103 Pann & Terry Webb† Ronna & James Willis Dr. David & Cynthia Zink Nora Zorich & Thomas Filardo Family Fund*

APPRENTICES ($125-$249) Anonymous (12) Jim & Janice Amatulli Henrietta Barlag Barbara & Wayne Beimesch Bill & Janet Berger The Bloch Family Fund Rosemary Bloom Gifting Fund* Wini Bruening Michele & Kevin Cain† Angela Chong & Harold Schuck Susan Cranley Jean Crocker-Lakness Barbara Cummins Charles & Lois Deitschel Rick & Tracy Diehl Marianne Doll Emilie & David Dressler Fund* Igor & Jane Dumbadze Arthur Fink Carl Fiora Bill & Carol Fisher Brenda Ganulin Alana & Shelly Gerson Melinda Gilbert Joanne Glaser Donn Goebel & Cathy McLeod† Dr. Irene Hamrick Thomas Hauer Rick & Kathleen Hibbard Ann Hicks Karlee Hilliard Daniel Hoffheimer Florette Hoffheimer Lyle & Jennifer Horvath Barbara A. Jennings Shonita Joshi Carl Kalota Lorrence T. & Barbara W. Kellar Fund* Judith Kenniston Tim & Grace Kerr Madelyn Levy David Logan & Dale Hodges Audrey Luna & Dan Nelson Anne McAdams Shawn & Marilyn Nolan Margie Nordlund Ms. Kathleen O'Connell & Dr. H. Kenneth Peterson Timothy & Joanne Oppelt Nancy L. Phelan David & Deborah Pittinger Jeanne Plunkett Laura Proto & Tommy Johnston Steven & Carol Reubel

Jerri Roberts & Jim Thomas Ross Royce Ronald & Ruth Schmiedeker Barbara Seiver Lois Shannon Mark Silbersack & Ruth Schwallie Mary Lee & Louie Sirkin Tim Smith & Penny Poirier Jacqueline & Richard Snyder Laurie Steele Robert P. Streicher Thomas Thompson U.S. Bank Employee Matching Program Barbara & Tom Waldron Lee M. Walsh Larry Weber Joseph Wessling Michael Wheatley Karen Wittenberg† Fred Yaeger & Lisa Staggenborg

TRIBUTE GIFTS In memory of Michael Berry In memory of Mary Bonansinga In memory of Ardyth Flottman In memory of Sue Friedlander (3) In memory of James A. Markley, Jr. In memory of Barbara W. Robb In honor of Linda Erpelding In honor of Mary Stagaman & Ron Kull's 20th Anniversary In honor of Amy Weinstock

Ensemble Theatre acknowledges the following Partner Companies, Foundations, and their employees who generously participate in the Annual ArtsWave Community Campaign at the $100,000+ level. Your support helps make our community vibrant and connects people all across our region through the arts. Thank you!

P&G Fifth Third Bank and the Fifth Third Foundation GE Aviation Cincinnati Bell Western & Southern Financial Group Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center The Cincinnati Insurance Companies City of Cincinnati Enquirer Media Great American Insurance Group Ohio National Financial Services U.S. Bank The H.B., E.W., and F. R. Luther Charitable Foundation, Fifth Third Bank and Narley L. Haley, Co-Trustees Macy's Cincinnati Business Courier The Kroger Co. PNC The E.W. Scripps Company and Scripps Howard Foundation Duke Energy HORAN Cincinnati Reds

* A Fund of The Greater Cincinnati Foundation † Sustaining Donor

the premiere society

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PATRON INFORMATION ETC BOX OFFICE HOURS Monday through Friday 10 am to 5 pm, and 2 hours prior to curtain.

Weekend hours vary.

CAMERAS & RECORDING DEVICES Actors’ Equity Association strictly prohibits the use of cameras or recording devices (including camera phones) in the theatre.

ACCESSIBILITY OPTIONS ETC offers audio-described performances, ASL-interpreted performances, wheelchair accessible seating, large-print programs, Braille programs, assistive listening devices, and sensory sensitivity items such as noisecanceling headphones and fidgets.

RELAXED PERFORMANCES Select performances offered for those with sensory sensitivities and developmental disabilities and their families to enjoy the production with lighting and sound adjustments and other accommodations.

SALE POLICY Single-ticket purchases are final sale with no refund. If a patron is a no-show for their reserved performance, ETC is under no obligation to reschedule their tickets.

LATECOMERS & ADMITTANCE Latecomers are seated at the House Manager’s discretion and may be denied admission depending upon the demands or structure of a particular production. Should you need to leave the theatre during a performance, readmittance is not guaranteed.

ETC reserves the right to deny admission and/ or remove any disruptive patrons from the theatre at any time.

TAX CREDITS If you cannot attend your performance and cannot reschedule for another date, tickets released prior to performances by calling the ETC box office are fully deductible as a charitable contribution.

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patron information

1127 Vine Street circa 1927 Image courtesy of Fifth Third Bank archives.

PARKING Patrons may park at the Gateway Garage (accessible via 12th Street) or at the surface lot, both conveniently located at the corner of Vine and 12th Streets. Parking is also available at Washington Park Garage and Mercer Commons Garage.

CHILDREN Children under the age of 4 will not be admitted to productions unless otherwise advertised. Parents with disruptive children will be asked to leave the theatre.

GROUPS & DISCOUNTS Groups of 8 or more can save on single-ticket prices. Student rates, rush discounts, Public Radio Perks Card, AAA, ArtsWave Pass, and educator and military member discounts are available for select shows (please consult your appropriate membership(s) for details and exclusions).

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