Florida Repertory Theatre Presents: "Forever Plaid" - Digital Playbill by Florida Repertory Theatre

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DEAR FRIEND & THEATRE LOVER,

Welcome to the theatre! Whether this is your first visit or your hundred-andfirst, thank you for making the arts – especially Florida Repertory Theatre – a part of your cultural life. Florida Rep celebrates twenty-seven years of exceptional performances, thought-provoking storytelling, and unforgettable moments on its two stages this Season. Patron support over the years has always been the key to our success, and we are deeply grateful for all those who make donations, volunteer, or buy a ticket.

Our 27th Season features nine plays and musicals hand-picked for your enjoyment in our two unique and historic venues. Throughout the Season, you’ll enjoy work from our longtime ensemble of artists, frequent guests, and new faces from New York and around the country.

Our community has come a long way since pandemic shutdowns and a powerful Hurricane that brought wind and water. As Southwest Florida continues to recover, Florida Rep promises an escape from the cares of the world outside. When you come to the theatre, we promise to transport you with a wide variety of comedies, dramas, and musicals.

This season, we’re pleased to offer three musicals again! Forever Plaid is a cult-classic homage to the music of the 1950s; Lucky Stiff is a zany musical farce that brings together a colorful cast of characters on a wild goose chase through the streets of Monte Carlo, and SHOUT! celebrates the powerful women whose voices defined England in the 1960s.

For those who seek thought-provoking and witty banter, mystery, or even something a bit taboo, we have Ben Butler (a Civil War battle of wits), Agatha Christie’s The Murder of Roger Ackroyd (a regional premiere of a brand-new stage adaptation), and Venus in Fur (a steamy and provocative play about power and desire).

ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Of course, comedies abound with a one-person tour-de-force in Fully Committed, a heart-lifting romantic comedy in Bloomsday, and a new play about senior citizens misbehaving in Boca! We hope you’ll join us for every laugh, every tear, and every story told on our stages this Season.

As the lights dim, remember that your being here tonight (today) is no small thing. You share a connection to a millennium-old tradition that has its roots in the dawn of civilization. From the Ancient Greek amphitheaters where audiences first heard the words of Aeschylus and Euripides to the Renaissance, when Shakespeare tried new verses, to the Golden Age of American Musical Theatre when Rodgers & Hammerstein gambled on a bold new artform, and even to the mid-twentieth century when Margo Jones and Zelda Fichandler started a regional theatre movement that made companies like Florida Rep possible in our community – you’re connected to it all.

If today we make you laugh, applaud, or sit forward in your seat, know that you carry the same emotion and excitement as those first audiences. Theatre is a rare communal experience, and because you came to the theatre today, you help us to ensure that this sacred art form will continue to spark curiosity, provoke discussion, and lift spirits for another twenty-seven seasons.

Thank you for supporting the arts, and thank you for coming to the theatre!

Greg Longenhagen

Producing Artistic Director

Pictured: The Cast of BEEHIVE • Michael Liebhauser & Kraig Swartz in THE LEGEND OF GEORGIA McBRIDE • Hope Ward & Daniel Morgan Shelley in THE MOUNTAINTOP • The Cast of Ken Ludwig’s A COMEDY OF TENORS

A LETTER FROM

On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to welcome you to our 27th season.

Wasn’t last season terrific?! You may think it hard to top, but in true Florida Rep fashion, you know we have a season of great theater planned for you. Our active education department will bring a new series of Theatre for Young Audiences productions for student audiences in schools across Lee County and beyond, offer two Conservatory theatre productions for advanced students, and summer arts intensive camps for students of all ages and skill abilities. We hope you will encourage any young people in your life to participate and we hope you attend some or all of these fabulous educational productions.

This season our Executive Director John Martin will transition into retirement after 23 seasons of dedication to Florida Rep. His departure will be bittersweet but we wish him well and prepare to welcome a new Executive Director, Chris Verrill, recently appointed by our Board of Directors following a nationwide search. We invite you to say hello and welcome him into our Florida Rep family.

This season, we continue to rebuild and renovate our theatre spaces devastated by Hurricane Ian. It is only through the financial support from you - our patrons and donors - that this is possible.

Your ongoing support enables us to continue presenting the Broadway-quality productions you deserve. Ticket sales alone cannot sustain us, so please consider donating today. Your contribution helps secure the future of Florida Rep so it may continue to be a vibrant part of the cultural landscape of Southwest Florida.

In closing, we invite you to sit back and enjoy the show.

Janice Danzig, Chairperson Board of Directors

A LETTER FROM YOUR MAYOR

Dear Florida Repertory Theatre Patrons,

On behalf of the City of Ft Myers, it is my distinct pleasure to welcome you to the 27th season at Florida Rep. I am proud to support Florida Rep and the vital role it plays in enriching our community. The arts are essential to the vibrancy and growth of our city, and this institution has long been a beacon of artistic excellence and community spirit in our downtown river district.

In the words of the legendary actress and theatre director, Stella Adler, “The word theatre comes from the Greeks. It means the seeing place. It is the place people come to see the truth about life and the social situation.” Indeed, Florida Rep serves as the anchor of our city, offering a space where we can gather to laugh, to sing, to be inspired, and to be moved by the powerful stories that unfold on stage.

This incredible season promises to be no different, with a lineup that celebrates the human experience and the richness of our shared culture. But it doesn’t stop there. The Florida Rep Education program, provides professional theatre training, including acting and theatre tech classes, free Shakespeare performances and school tours across Southwest Florida, college-level internships, and theatre appreciation programs. I encourage everyone to take advantage of all of the remarkable offerings at Florida Rep.

As we come together to celebrate the magic of theatre and the talented individuals who bring it to life, I ask you to join me in extending heartfelt congratulations to Executive Director John Martin on his well-deserved retirement after 23 years of dedicated leadership at Florida Rep. His contributions have been instrumental in shaping and elevating our vibrant arts community to new heights. Let’s offer our gratitude to all of Florida Rep’s dedicated leadership team, staff and volunteers, talented acting company, plus award-winning directors, designers, and guest artists. Their unwavering commitment to the arts significantly enriches the cultural fabric of Fort Myers and enhances the quality of life for all residents.

But most importantly, I thank you, the audiences of Florida Rep. Your passionate support and dedication are the cornerstone of this cultural treasure, making it a truly exceptional and cherished part of our city. I’ll see you at the theatre!

Yours in public service,

Kevin B. Anderson Mayor

A LETTER FROM YOUR SENATOR

Dear Florida Repertory Theatre Patrons,

Welcome to the 27th season at the Florida Repertory Theatre! Your presence and patronage are the lifeblood of the Florida Rep, and I’m thrilled to welcome you for what promises to be a remarkable season.

I know that this season will present a diverse array of productions that will captivate, entertain, and inspire you. From timeless classics to contemporary masterpieces, Florida Rep’s carefully curated lineup reflects their commitment to delivering high-quality, thoughtprovoking, and memorable theatrical experiences.

Thank you for being a part of the Florida Repertory Theatre family. Without you, Florida Rep would not be able to reach over 100,000 theater goers and engage with 45,000 young people. Let us celebrate the transformative power of theatre and the joy it brings to our lives during Florida Rep’s 27th season.

Warmest regards,

Senator Jonathan Martin

A LETTER FROM YOUR COUNCILMAN

Dear Friends of Florida Rep,

As a proud member of our City Council, I am delighted to extend my warmest greetings to Florida Rep’s 27th Season! Our vibrant community is greatly enriched by the arts, and I firmly believe that supporting the arts is essential to our collective well-being.

In the words of playwright Thornton Wilder, “I regard theatre as the greatest of all art forms, the most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being.” This sense of shared humanity and community is what drives us to continue supporting the arts. Theatre, in particular, holds a unique and vital place in our hearts and our downtown. It brings us together, fosters creativity, and provides a platform for a wide array of voices and stories. The work done by Florida Rep is exemplary in leading our downtown cultural scene, transforming it into a dynamic and integral part of our city’s identity.

Thank you, audience members, for being part of Ft Myers’ thriving cultural landscape. In every rehearsal, every performance, and every standing ovation, there is a piece of your generosity and enthusiasm. Know that you are an important part of this artistic journey ensuring that Florida Rep remains a mainstay in our community, inspiring generations to come.

Warm regards,

Liston D. Bochette III Ward 4 Fort Myers City Council

AUDIOLOGY

Florida Repertory Theatre’s Performance Accessibility Assistance Program (PAAP) provides both audio-described and signed performances throughout the season. Working with the Associated Interpreters for the Deaf and the Southwest Council for the Blind, this program offers $25 tickets for patrons with vision loss and patrons in the deaf community. All performances are 2 PM Sunday Matinees. All tickets are subject to availability, and it is highly recommended to reserve in advance (limit 2 tickets per production).

For information and tickets:

Box Office 239.332.4488 • Boxoffice@floridarep.org OR Development at 239.219.1541 • Development@FloridaRep.org

Audio Described Performances

Forever Plaid

OCT 20 • ArtStage Studio Theatre

Ben Butler

NOV 3 • Historic Arcade Theatre

The Murder of Roger Ackroyd

DEC 8 • Historic Arcade Theatre

Fully Committed

JAN 5 • ArtStage Studio Theatre

Lucky Stiff

JAN 19 • Historic Arcade Theatre

Bloomsday

MAR 2 • Arstage Studio Theatre

Boca

FEB 23 • Historic Arcade Theatre

SHOUT! The Mod Musical

APR 6 • Historic Arcade Theatre

Venus in Fur

May 18 • ArtStage Studio Theatre

Signed Performances

Ben Butler

NOV 10 • Historic Arcade Theatre

The Murder of Roger Ackroyd

DEC 15 • Historic Arcade Theatre

Lucky Stiff

JAN 26 • Historic Arcade Theatre

Boca

MAR 2 • Historic Arcade Theatre

SHOUT! The Mod Musical

MAR 30 • Historic Arcade Theatre

After being introduced to award-winning Broadway performances by his parents, Arthur Zupko has been a lifelong theatre lover. Art believes “no child’s life is complete without exposure to theatre.” Art is a 20-year Florida Rep Board of Directors member and has contributed nearly a half million dollars to support education programming. Art truly believes an investment in education at Florida Rep is a positive investment in the future, and he hopes you will join him and donate today.

Art Zupko and the 2024 cast of Disney’s The Lion King, Jr

MONIQUE CALDWELL, Education Director MEGAN JIMENEZ, Asst. Education Director

Florida Rep’s Theatre Conservatory programs offer young artists an introduction to the professional theatre experience and culminate with a public performance in the Historic Arcade Theatre.

B K BY BRIDGET CARPENTER

MUSIC BY TOM KI LYRICS BY BRIAN YORKEY

BASED ON THE B K & DISNEY FILM BY MARY RODGERS

DIRECTED BY MEGAN JIMENEZ LEONARD

MUSIC DIRECTED BY ROSALIND METCALF

CHOREOGRAPHED BY ROBIN DAWN

ENSEMBLE OF ARTISTS

Florida Repertory Theatre is committed to providing a first-class regional theatre for Southwest Florida; to creating, nurturing, and developing a diverse ensemble of theatre professionals who will develop long term relationships working on a wide variety of plays; to helping improve the quality of life in our community through all the arts; and to making the arts, especially theatre, accessible to every segment of our community.

We would like to recognize these core members of our Ensemble of Theatre Professionals. Ensemble Artist Featured in the 2024-2025 Season

Viki Boyleb Actor Since 2010

David Breitbarth Actor Since 2011

Rachel Burttram Actor Since 2002

Mark Chambers Actor Since 2006

Chris Clavellib Actor/Director Since 2000

Michelle Damato Actor Since 2007

Audrey M. Brown Stage Manager Since 2007

Richard Crowellb Set Designer Since 1998

Arthur D’Alessiob Choreographer/ Stage Manager Since 1999

ACTORS & DIRECTORS

Kate Hampton Actor Since 2012

Maureen Heffernanb Director Since 2002

V Craig Heidenreichb Actor/Director Since 2016

Patricia Idlette Actor Since 2008

Greg Longenhagenb Actor/Director Since 1998

William McNultyb Actor Since 2012

DESIGNERS & STAGE MANAGERS

Stefanie Gendab Costume Designer Since 2008

Jim Hunterb Set & Lighting Designer Since 2000

Amy L. Massari Stage Manager Since 2010

Ray Rechtb Set Designer Since 1999

Sara Morseyb Actor Since 2008

Jason Parrishb Actor/Director Since 2005

Brendan Powers Actor Since 2008

Peter Thomasson Actor Since 2004

IN MEMORIAM

Niels Miller Actor & Director 1925-2006

Graham Smith Actor 1955-2020

David M. Upton Set & Lighting Designer Since 2006

Janine Wochnab Stage Manager Since 2005

Robert F. Wolin Set Designer Since 2006

Todd O. Wrenb Lighting Designer Since 2005

PlayL ab 2025 Festival of

SAVE THE DATE

PlayLab is an intensive weekend festival that showcases new plays and new voices in the American Theatre! Join us this spring for an action-packed weekend of readings, panel discussions, networking events, and more!

Be part of the New Play Development process as you watch Florida Rep’s Ensemble Members & guest artists working on a series of NEW plays from established & emerging playwrights!

Playwrights & Titles Coming Soon for 2025! Visit us online for information about tickets, VIP Packages, and Sponsorship opportunities. MAY 1-4, 2025

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LEAVE YOUR LEGACY ON THE STAGE

The Mary & Hugh Denison Heirloom Society

if you care deeply about florida repertory theatre and are interested in perpetuating its mission and outreach, consider making a transformative gift through planned or legacy giving.

Be the Director of Your Legacy using any one, or a combination, of the following:

• A simple bequest in your will

• Life income gifts (charitable gift annuity, charitable lead or remainder trusts)

• Contribution to the endowment fund

• Retirement plans, life insurance policies or 401K transfers

• Real estate and individual contributions

Take

a Lead Role—

Join e Mary & Hugh Denison Heirloom Society

When you make a commitment to support the future of the theatre through a pledge of $100,000, or more, within 10 years through an investment of planned giving or through outright gifts, you can be enrolled in our exclusive Heirloom Society and receive special recognition and beneﬁts.

Please consult with your ﬁnancial advisor to determine which options work best for you.

Through a planned gift you can gain personal satisfaction from helping Florida Rep while advancing your ﬁnancial goals, plus enjoy special recognition beneﬁts!

The Mary & Hugh Denison

Heirloom Society

Naomi Bloom

Jack Psiris & Doreen Kostel

Dinah Bloomhall

Darlene M. Arnold

Janet & Bruce Bunch

Berne Davis Hugh & Mary Denison

Doris & Steve Colgate

James & Nancy Garfield Vici & Russ Hamm

Ellie Fox

John Madden

Noreen Raney

Arthur Zupko

Joel Magyar

Linda & Dan Carp

Shelley Wilson & Terry Kelley

Eileen Powers

Jane & Bob Breisch

Maureen Smitt Grabowski

Jim & Mary Lavelle

Lynne Birdt

FLORIDA REPERTORY THEATRE

STUART ROSS

STARRING

Sparky................Stephen Christopher Anthony*†

Jinx...................................................Christopher Bailey*†

Smudge..........................................................Caleb Funk*†

Francis...................................................Steven Martella*†

Pianist.................................................Steven Zumbrun*†

UNDERSTUDIES:

Sparky/Jinx......James Stobbeˆ

Frankie/Smudge.......Noah Warfordˆ

TIME

PLACE:

The Afterlife, Present Day

ANY VIDEO AND/OR AUDIO RECORDING OF THIS PRODUCTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.

FOREVER PLAID is performed without an intermission.

RUN CREW:

Wardrobe Crew: Isabella Collins

LX Board Operator: Gabe Landes

Audio Engineers: Braden Downing • Raven Moore

ABOUT THE WRITER

STUART ROSS, in addition to creating Forever Plaid, has directed (and or written) over 50 productions throughout the USA, Canada, and Internationally. He directed Forever Plaid at the West End’s Apollo Theatre and the film of Forever Plaid. He wrote Plaid Tidings for theatres in the States after the tragedy of 9/11. The Sound of Plaid (a glee club sequel to Forever Plaid – has performed around the world including The Edinburgh Fringe Festival. His other shows include Radiant Baby – The Keith Haring Musical at New York’s Public Theatre); Enter Laughing, The Musical (Drama Desk Nomination) and The Radio City Musical Easter Show. His television work includes the sitcom, Frasier, and PBS’ Great Performances Stuart began his directing and writing journey while attending the University of Manchester. He later studied at New York’s Circle In The Square. He currently resides in both New York and Los Angeles.

Forever Plaid is dedicated to the “good guys”; to the guys who wheeled the projector carts for the AV club; to the guys who saved their allowance to give their parents a special night on the town for their anniversary; to the guys who carried an extra handkerchief; to the guys who never went beyond first base, and if they did, they didn’t tell anyone. We Salute You!

†Member of Florida Repertory Theatre’s Ensemble of Theatre Artists. See page 23 for the entire ensemble.

* The Actors & Stage Manager employed in this production are members of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.

Music Theatre International (MTI) is one of the world’s leading theatrical licensing agencies, granting theatres from around the world the rights to perform the greatest selection of musicals from Broadway and beyond. Founded in 1952 by composer Frank Loesser and orchestrator Don Walker, MTI is a driving force in advancing musical theatre as a vibrant and engaging art form. MTI works directly with the composers, lyricists and book writers of these musicals to provide official scripts, musical materials and dynamic theatrical resources to over 100,000 professional, community and school theatres in the US and in over 150 countries worldwide. MTI is particularly dedicated to educational theatre, and has created special collections to meet the needs of various types of performers and audiences. MTI’s Broadway Junior® shows are 30- and 60-minute musicals for performance by elementary and middle school-aged performers, while MTI’s School Editions are musicals annotated for performance by high school students.

AUTHOR’S NOTE

When most of us think of the 1950s, we think of rock ‘n’ roll, greasers, hot rods, Elvis, Annette, Fabian, D.A., haircuts, and teenage rebellion. But there was a flip side to this era - the side of harmony, innocence, and the sincerity of dreams. It is the side that’s been lost in the shuffle of progress. It was a time when most parents and kids listened and danced to the same music; when families partook in the ritual of gathering in front of the TV to watch their favorite variety shows, like the Ed Sullivan Show or the Perry Como Show. It was a time when every family worked to fulfill the American Dream.

It was a period when four-part guy groups harmonized their way across the airwaves, jukeboxes and hi-fis of the country. Throughout the land they would stand at a quartet of microphones, crooning a multitude of chaperoned prom-goers into dreamy romance.

They wore dinner jackets and bow ties (or perhaps cardigans and white bucks). Each move was drilled to precision. Each vocal arrangement soared to stratospheric heights of harmony. This sound crested right before rock ‘n’ roll stole the heartbeat of music across the globe.

During this time, guys from across the country banded together to sing in the basement for fun. If things worked out, they might be hired to sing at weddings, conventions, proms, and country club socials. Inspired by the success of the recording stars, they made plans to zoom into careers of fame and fortune. But the musical taste of the U.S.A. was changing, and the country would not stop to listen to their dreams.

This is the story of such a groupFOREVER PLAID.

Once upon a time, there were four guys (Sparky, Smudge, Jinx and Frankie) who loved to sing. They all met in high school, when they joined the audiovisual

club (1956). Discovering they shared an affection for music and entertaining, they got together and dreamed of becoming like their idols - The Four Aces, The Four Lads, The Four Freshman, The Hi-Los and The Crew Cuts. They rehearsed in the basement of Smudge’s family’s plumbing supply company. It was here they became Forever Plaid - a name that connects the continuation of a traditional values of family, home and harmony, although rock ‘n’ roll was racing down the fast lane like a candy apple “vette”, they believed in their music. As their sound developed, they sang at family gatherings, fundraisers, and eventually graduated to supermarket openings and proms. They had little time for romance or leisure for they supported their fantasy by holding down day jobsFrankie was in dental supplies, Smudge was in bathroom fixtures. Sparky was in better dresses. They devoted themselves to singing on nights and weekends. Then, finally, they landed their first big gig at the Airport Hilton cocktail bar - The Fusel Lounge.

February 9, 1964

En route to pick up their custom-made plaid tuxedos, they were slammed broadside by a school bus filled with eager Catholic teens. The teens were on their way to witness the Beatles make their U.S. television debut on the Ed Sullivan Show and miraculously escaped uninjured. The members of Forever Plaid were killed instantly. It is at that moment, when their careers and lives ended, that the story of FOREVER PLAID begins.

Through the Power of Harmony and the Expanding Holes in the Ozone Layer, in conjunction with the positions of the planets and all the astrotechnical stuff, they are allowed to come back to perform the show they never got to do in life. And having completed their Mission of Harmony, our men in plaid must return to the cosmos. Although they may be gone, through this production their dreams live on forever.

ANNIVERSARY SONG

SONG CREDITS

Written by Al Jolson and Saul Chaplin.

©MCMXLVI Mood Music Co. Inc., New York New York.

CATCH A FALLING STAR

Written by Paul Vance and Lee Pockriss. Used by permission of Emily Music Corp.

CHAIN GANG

Written by Sam Cooke.

Published by Abkco Music, Inc. Used by permission.

CRAZY ‘BOUT YA BABY

Written by Pat Barret and Rudi Maugeri.

Used by permission of Wanessa Music Production, Co.

CRY

Written by Churchill Kohlman.

©MCMLI Shapiro, Bernstein & Co., Inc., New York, NY.

DAY-O

Written by Erik Darling, Bob Carey and Alan Arkin. Used by permission of Cherry Lane Music Publishing Co., Inc.

DREAM ALONG WITH ME

Written by Carl Sigman. Used by permission of Major Songs Co.

GOTTA BE THIS OR THAT

Written by Sonny Skylar.

Used by permission of Music Sales Corporation (ASCAP), copyright owner.

HEART AND SOUL

Written by Hoagy Carmichael and Frank Loesser. Used by permission of Famous Music Corp.

JAMAICA FAREWELL

Written by Lord Burgess. Used by permission of Cherry Lane Music Publishing Co., Inc.

KINGSTON MARKET

Written by Irving Burgie. Used by permission of Cherry Lane Music Publishing Co., Inc.

LADY OF SPAIN

Written by Robert Hargreaves, Tolchard Evans, Stanley J. Damerell and Henry Tilsley. Used by Permission of Sam Fox Publishing Co., Inc.

LOVE IS A MANY SPLENDORED THING

Written by Paul Francis Webster and Sammy Fain.

Used by permission of EMI Miller Catalog Inc.

MAGIC MOMENTS

Written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David.

Used by permission of Famous Music Corp.

MATILDA

Written by Harry Thomas. Used by permission of MCA Music Publishing, a division of MCA Inc.

MOMENTS TO REMEMBER

Written by Al Stillman and Robert Allen. Used by permission of Larry Spier, Inc.

NO, NOT MUCH

Written by Al Stillman and Robert Allen. Used by permission of Kitty Anne Music.

PAPA LOVES TO MAMBO

Written by Al Hoffman, Dick Mannning and Bix Reichner. © MCMLIV Shapiro, Bernstein & Co., Inc. New York, NY.

Used by permission.

PERFIDIA

Written by Milton Leeds and Alberto Dominguez. Used by permission of Peer International Corp.

RAGS TO RICHES

Written by Richard Adler and Jerry Ross. Used by permission of Major Songs Co.

SHANGRI-LA

Written by Carl Sigman, Matt Malneck and Robert Maxwell. Used by permission of EMI Robbins Catalog Inc.

SHE LOVES YOU

Written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Used by permission of Gil Music Corp.

SING TO ME MR. C

Written by Charles Ray. Used by permission of Roncorn Music Company.

SIXTEEN TONS

Written by Merle Travis. Used by permission of Unichappel Music Inc.

TEMPTATION

Written by Arthur Freed and Nacio Herb Brown. Used by permission of EMI Robbins Catalog Inc.

THEME FROM THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE UGLY

Written by Ennio Morricone.

Used by permission of EMI Unart Catalog Inc.

THREE COINS IN THE FOUNTAIN

Written by Sammy Cahn and Jule Styne. Used by permission of WB Music Corp. and Chappell & Co.

UNDECIDED

Written by Sid Robbin and Charles Shavers. Used by permission of MCA Music Publishing, a division of MCA Inc.

SH BOOM

Published by Warner/Unichappell Music, Inc.

WHO’S WHO

STEPHEN CHRISTOPHER

ANTHONY* (Sparky) is thrilled to make his Florida Rep debut! Miami native. Broadway: Dear Evan Hansen (Evan), Book of Mormon (Elder McKinley u/s). First National Tour: Dear Evan Hansen (Evan), Catch Me If You Can (Frank Abagnale Jr). Regional/NY favorites include Legally Blonde (Emmett, Actor’s Playhouse), Beautiful (Barry Mann, Forestburgh Playhouse), I Am Harvey Milk (Lincoln Center), Something Funny’s Going On (conceived and directed by Martin Charnin), Hairspray (Link, Wagon Wheel), 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Chip), Jesus Christ Superstar (Jesus). Florida State University Music Theatre grad. New World School of the Arts Music Theatre grad. Upright Citizens Brigade improv grad. Stephen is also a theatre director with credits including Mass Extinction Squad (Gene Frankel Theatre), Million Dollar Quartet (Associate, Metropolis PAC), The Exhibitionist (Associate), Matilda (MD, YES Theatre). Stephen is a certified yoga instructor, amateur chef, and insufferably proud dog dad. Love to Michael, Augs, Nel, family. IG: @_stephenanthony

CHRISTOPHER BAILEY

(Jinx) is thrilled to be making his Florida Rep debut with such a talented group of artists! Film/TV: No Hard Feelings (Beach Bully), Law and Order (Cooper Young), Runaway (Jacob). Theatre: Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day (Alexander), Rewind: An 80s Musical (Ram), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Puck). Hartt School Actor Training Class of 2019. Big thanks to his family, friends, Bright Artist Management, and Stewart Talent for their support and guidance. Instagram: @chrisb1129

CALEB FUNK* (Smudge/ Dance Captain) is thrilled to be making his Florida Rep debut. Some of his credits include How the Grinch Stole Christmas, National Tour (Grinch), The Addams Family (Lurch) at The Forestburgh Playhouse, Paganet (Miss

Texas) at The Forestburgh Playhouse, Damn Yankees (Rocky) at the Wick Theater, Singfeld: The Seinfeld Parody (Kramer) at the Theatre Center, and Disney Cruise Line. While not onstage, Caleb is a licensed real estate agent in NYC, let him know if you are looking for a home! Love to his Mom! Thank you to Michael, Steven, and Jason for this show; and a big thanks to Brian with Hell’s Kitchen Agency. IG: @funkc1

STEVEN MARTELLA

(Francis) is thrilled to be making his Florida Repertory Theatre Debut! A Richmond VA native and Manhattan School of Music graduate, Steven moved to NYC when he was 20 to pursue his theatre dreams. When not performing Steven can be found either obsessing over the latest board game he’s purchased or cooking Italian food. His recent credits include Off-Broadway: Here There Be Dragons (Dennis), Frankenstein (Ensemble) Tours/Cruise Lines: Saw The Musical: The Unauthorized Parody (Gordon), Disney Cruise Line (Hercules). Regional: Beauty and the Beast (Beast), A Man of No Importance (Robbie), Elf (Buddy), A Christmas Carol (Bob Crachit), Heathers (Ram), The House at Pooh Corner (Winnie the Pooh), Legally Blonde (Kyle the UPS Guy). Steven would like to thank Mom, Dad, Collin, and Allie for their constant love and support. stevenmartella.com / IG: @steven_martella

JAMESTON STOBBEˆ

(u/s Sparky/Jinx) just graduated from UCF with a BFA in Musical Theatre. Some Theatre UCF credits include Bright Star (Billy Cane), Peter and the Starcatcher (Lord Aster, Co-Fight Choreographer, Fight Captain), and Working (Stonemason Soloist, Asst. Music Director). Some professional credits include Ragtime (Younger Brother), Rock of Ages (Franz Klineman), and Rent (Roger U/S, Ensemble). As an Advanced Actor Combatant, he has 7 recommended passes and 1 basic pass in 8 different weapon disciplines with the SAFD. From acting to singing to stage combat, he’s so excited to continue his theatrical journey with FL Rep. www.jamesonstobbe.com.

WHO’S WHO

NOAH WARFORDˆ (u/s Frankie/Smudge) is a recent graduate of Ouachita Baptist University with his BFA in Musical Theatre. He was born and raised in Little Rock, Arkansas and got his start in the theatre world there. Previous roles include Dmitry in Anastasia, Pippin in Pippin, and Professor Plum in Clue: On Stage He is grateful to Florida Repertory Theatre for giving him the opportunity to jumpstart his career as an acting intern! In his free time, he spends time outdoors, plays with his cat, and visits the nearest fried chicken restaurants.

MICHAEL MAROTTA** (Director/Choreographer) is thrilled to kick off the 27th season here at Florida Rep, having been a visiting artist since its inception as both actor and director. Recent directing credits here include last season’s Beguiled Again: The Music of Rodgers and Hart, An Inspector Calls, I Loved, I Lost, I Made Spaghetti! and A Grand Night for Singing! He appeared here in Tenderly: The Rosemary Clooney Musical (also Cincinnati Playhouse, St. Louis Rep, Tennessee Shakes, Northcoast Rep, Ivoryton Playhouse and Hilton Head). Michael has directed at Gulfshore Playhouse in Naples and most recently Guido Girl Ascending in Manhattan. Other notable acting credits include TV’s The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and Off Broadways Romeo & Bernadette (NY Times Critics Pic, original cast album about to be released). He’s played The MUNY and STAGES, St. Louis, Carnegie Hall, Town Hall and the Signature Theater in NYC, Cincinnati Pops and Florida Studio. A NYC native, Michael has appeared in several commercials and is twice the recipient of both the MAC Award and BACKSTAGE Bistro Award.

BRADEN DOWNING (Sound Designer) is a Fort Myers native entering her second season at Florida Repertory Theatre where she previously worked on shows such as Hank Williams: Lost Highway and Beehive: The 60s Musical. Braden recently provided sound design for Florida Rep’s 2024 education summer camps. She received her B.A. in theatre arts from the University of Mississippi. Braden would like to thank her family and her cat, Lucky, for all their support!

REY HANKINSON (Asst. Stage Manager), a recent University of Rochester graduate, is thrilled to join Florida Repertory Theatre.

With stage management experience at UR for Hedwig and the Angry Inch, The Crucible, and Metamorphoses, Rey has also interned at the Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine, contributing to Charlotte’s Web, Knuffle Bunny, and The Neverending Story Most recently, Rey stage managed The Comedy of Errors with the Camden Shakespeare Festival in their native state of Maine. They would like to thank the UR Theatre community for their passion and dedication to the craft, and their family for their never-ending support.

AARON JACKSON (Scenic Designer) is excited to return to Florida Rep after designing Beguiled Again last season. Regional credits include Cabaret, Beautiful, Bandstand, Camelot, Something Rotten, Once, Godspell, Hedwig & The Angry Inch, Rent, and Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson among others for the Phoenix Theatre Company and numerous designs for Childsplay, (both in Phoenix, AZ) and over 28 productions for Shakespeare by the Sea (Los Angeles, CA). Aaron has designed for several cruise lines including Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, Oceania, and Regent. He was a Design Producer for the final season of the original Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, (ABC), has designed concerts for Barry Manilow and Lorna Luft, corporate events including Galaverse 2022 for Gala Games, and worked as a Layout Designer on Star Wars: A Galactic Extravaganza at Disney Hollywood Studios (Orlando, FL). Aaron is a co-founder and Creative Director for 2 Creative Entertainment creating and producing live productions for various entertainment venues. Recently he opened his third original production for Carnival Cruise Line after creating and directing Soulbound (Carnival Horizon, Sunrise, Panorama, Radiance, and Jubilee) and Voodoo Moon (Carnival Mardi Gras). Rio Carnival is featured on Carnival’s newest ship Carnival Jubilee. Aaron resides in Fort Lauderdale, FL and holds an MFA from Rutgers University. www.ajacksondesigns.com www.2CreativeEntertainment.com

MARY RUTH “MR” KNACKSTEDT* (Stage Manager) is excited to return to Florida Repertory Theatre where their previous credits include The Gin Game, A Sherlock Carol and And Then There Were None. Other Regional credits include The Murder of Roger Ackroyd, By

WHO’S WHO

the Queen (Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival), Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella, Mountain Octopus (Creede Rep), Into the Woods, Trouble In Mind, Our Town/ Nuestro Pueblo, Cake Ladies, and Public Works: As You Like It (Dallas Theater Center), Big Scary Animals (Theatre Three), If Pretty Hurts (Jubilee Theatre), and 10 Seconds (Dallas Children’s Theater). MR is a graduate of Southwestern University, and proud to be an AEA freelance Stage Manager. www.maryruthknackstedt.com @maryruthknackstedt

KRISTINA TOLLEFSON***

(Costume Designer) is a member of United Scenic Artists (the professional designer’s union), is an Associate Professor and Resident Costume and Makeup Designer at the University of Central Florida in Orlando where she also serves as Undergraduate Coordinator for her department. She holds an MFA from Purdue University in Costume Design and Technology and a BA Degree from South Dakota State University in Theatre and English. In addition to her work at UCF Kristina’s costume designs have appeared in places such as The Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery (Washington DC), Prague Shakespeare (Czech Republic), Shakespeare and Company (MA), St. Lawrence University (NY), DeSales University (PA), Maples Repertory Theatre (MO), Orlando Shakes (FL), Orlando Rep (FL), Purdue University (IN), Phoenix Theatre Indianapolis (IN), as well as at theatres in Texas, Florida, South Dakota, and Kansas. Kristina is the recipient of three Kennedy Center/American College Theatre Festival Design awards and numerous teaching awards. Her book, Too

ACTORS’ EQUITY ASSOCIATION (AEA) was founded in 1913 as the first of the American Actor unions. Equity’s mission is to advance, promote and foster the art of theatre as an essential component of our society. Today, Equity represents more than 40,000 actors, singers, dancers and stage managers working in hundreds of theatres across the United States. Equity members are dedicated to working in the theatre as a profession, upholding the highest artistic standards. Equity negotiates wages and working conditions and provides a wide range of benefits including health and pension plans for its members. Through its agreement with Equity, this theatre has committed to the fair treatment of the actors and stage managers employed in this production. AEA is a member of the AFL-CIO and is affiliated with FIA, an international organization of performing arts unions. For more information, visit www.actorsequity.org.

Much Is Not Enough: The History in Harriett’s Closet, with co-author Jodi Ozimek, documents the expansive clothing collection of Harriett Lake.

TODD O. WREN***† (Lighting Designer) is delighted to participate in Florida Rep’s continued growth as an ensemble member. A special thanks goes to you, the audience, for your support. Todd’s theatrical credits include Good Speed Musicals, Cleveland Playhouse, People’s Light and Opera Company, The Royal Manitoba Theatre Center, Merrimack Repertory, Barter Theatre, Tennessee Repertory, John F. Kennedy Center, Coconut Grove Playhouse, Charlotte Repertory, North Carolina Shakespeare Festival, Town and Gown Theatre, Casa Manana, and Flat Rock Playhouse. Todd is a member of United Scenic Artists, New York Local #829.

STEVEN ZUMBRUN (Music Director & Pianist) is proud to make his Florida Repertory Theatre debut with Forever Plaid (his seventh trip to Plaidland to date). He has spent the past twenty years traveling the country and making music in such productions as Dreamgirls (West Coast Black Theatre Troupe), A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder (Arizona Broadway Theatre), On the Town, Sweeney Todd, Songs for a New World, Ruthless!, Wings, and Merrily We Roll Along. His original show, Gene Kelly’s Lost Musical (written with Ivan Sherman), recently received its world premiere production. Steven also writes, directs, tap dances, and plays the accordion (sort of).

SPECIAL THANKS

Greg Parker; ABC-7 Southwest Florida

FLORIDA PROFESSIONAL THEATRES

ASSOCIATION (FPTA) is a statewide organization of professional theatre companies and theatre professionals interested in the development and promotion of professional theatre throughout Florida. Florida Repertory Theatre is a proud FPTA member theatre.

Florida Repertory Theatre is a member of THEATRE COMMUNICATIONS GROUP (TCG), the national organization for the American Theatre.

TICKETS

Florida Repertory Theatre is a proud Associate Member of the NATIONAL NEW PLAY NETWORK

BOARD OF DIRECTORS & FLORIDA REP STAFF

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Janice Danzig, Chair

Naomi Bloom, Vice Chair

Dinah Bloomhall

Alexandra Bremner

Shavon Chester

Doris Colgate

Fay C. Gronski, Secretary

Arthur M. Zupko, Treasurer

David M. Fritz

Greg Longenhagen

Sunny Lubner

John Martin

ADVISORY COUNCIL

Martin McLaughlin

Jeanette Meade

Laurye O’Melia

Fred Weinman

Don Abbott • Liz Abbott • Suzanne Boy • Marc Collins • Janice Danzig • Don Gurule • Melinda Isley

Jan Klein • Jane Lane • R. Marc Laviolette • Darrel Lieze-Adams • Greg Longenhagen • Donna Lovejoy

Clive Lubner • John Martin, Executive Director Emeritus • Kathleen McClanahan-Gruhl • Jeff McCullers •

Kinfay Moroti • Sharyn Rosenblum • Carly Schwartzel

STAFF

ARTISTIC & EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP

Executive Director.............................................Chris Verrill

Producing Artistic Director........Greg Longenhagen

Associate Artistic Director.......................Jason Parrish

General Manager..................................Dianne Summers

ADMINISTRATION

Finance Director.................................................Scott Osler

Business Manager............................................Kelly Colton

Company Manager...........................................Joy Brooks

Director of Operations...............................Bobby Logue

Asst. Operations Manager...........................Blanca Solis

Box Office Manager................................Gerrie Benzing

Front of House Associates.....Rick Aschenbrenner, Ty Burton-Deerhardt, Desiree Fleming, Joanne Friedman, Gena Gossett, LaVeda Holtberg, Angel Maldonato, Jennifer Manekin, Lori McKenzie, Basia Mielnik, Lee Slattery, Lorraine Stanek, Lisa Vogell, Sam Wolfe

DEVELOPMENT & FUNDRAISING

Development Director................................Lucy Walters

Development & Grants Manager.........Emily Yorgey

MARKETING

Marketing Director.............................Deborah Jonsson

Digital Media Specialist.....................Joe Dafeldecker

Social Marketing Specialist...............Stephanie Davis

EDUCATION

Education Director.............................Monique Caldwell

Asst. Education Director.....................Megan Leonard

Touring & Outreach Manager............................DJ Kelly

PRODUCTION

Production Manager.................................. Charles Clark

Asst. Production Manager Katie Lowe

Technical Director.................................Annalise Hulbert

Shop Foreman......................................Jeremy Campbell

Head Carpenter..........................................Roberto Mena

Master Electrician..............................................Ben Philips

Asst. Master Electrician........................Jason Bernardi

Sound Technician..................................Braden Downing

Costume Shop Manager........................Amanda Miller

Asst. Costume Shop Manager....................Lou Walker

Wardrobe Supervisor..........................Abbey Hodgson

Paints Charge..............................Julie Beth McCracken

Scenic Artist........................................................Koi Johnson

Props Manager...........................................Jonathan Willis

Props Artist..................................................Krystal Erdman

2024-2025 INTERN COMPANY

Acting Company........................................Reagan Baker, Jacqueline St. Pierre, Jillian Hall, Justine Gibson, Jameson Stobbe, Noah Warford

Production.........................Justin Boone, Yuki Kondo, Gabriel Landes, Kaida Lavan, Rosalia Marana, Hope McCracken, Raven Moore, Molly Murillo

Stage Management.........................Ash Rayne Barrett, Rey Hankinson, Mallory Williams

Costumes.....................Brielle Yang, Isabella Collins

Properties...........................................................Cal Lockleair

Contains strong language, adult situations, & brief nudity.

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