The Wizard of Oz Program

2024-2025 SEASON

Kirkwood Performing Arts Center

CONGRATULATIONS AND BREAK A LEG TO THE CAST OF WIZARD OF OZ!

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Gateway Center for Performing Arts' Youth Theatre Company Production Of

Book L. Frank Baum

Music & Lyrics Harold Arlen & E.Y Harburg

Background Music Herbert Stothart Dance and Vocal Arrangements Peter Howard

Orchestrations Larry Wilcox

Adapted by John Kane for the Royal Shakespeare Company Based upon the Classic Motion Picture owned by Turner Entertainment Co. and distributed in all media by Warner Bros

Presented by PURINA

CREATIVE AND CREW Director Paul Pagano

Music Director Lori Barrett-Pagano

Stage Manager Caroline Pillow

Choreographer Stephanie Fox

Assistant Stage Managers Nobily Forder and Jillian Romano

Animal Director Brian Hoffman

Toto Provided By Berloni Theatrical Animals Sound Design Amanda Werre

Set Design George Shea

Lighting Design Tanner Douglas

Costume Design Andrea Robb

Props Design Wig, Hair and Make-Up Design George Shea and Stephanie Fox Abby Pastorello Technical Director Scenic Painter Sound Engineer Jim Robert Tobias Reynolds Fin Clark

Costume Assistant Brayden Liberton

Assistant Music Director Chloe Jennings

Assistant Director Ricco Martin Jr.

Marketing Production Photographer Lisa Teadt Photography Carole Ann Miller & Mike De Pope

House Manager Erin Ryan

Fly Crew Flying Effects Flight Director ON THE FLY and Miles McGee, On the Fly Productions Phylan Peters, Gabriel Talsky, Charlie Villhard Brian Kuehnle Stage Crew Logan Bowhay, Makenzie Flier, Vivian French, Claire Hill, Tristen Kaplan, Cassidy Koenig, Piper Ludwig, Cecelia Mohr, Toby Triplett, Lily Wymore, Atticus Zeilstra

BAND Conductor Lori Barrett-Pagano

Trumpet Mo Carr

Keys 1 Kris Pineda

Trombone Bill Howells

Reeds 1 Keys 2 Michael Frazier Kaylin Knost

Violin Neil Zundel

Cello Marie Brown

Reeds 2 Brandon Thompson

Bass Basil Hand

Percussion Adam Kopff

Artistic Director’s Note Every season is magical but this season brings some really special productions that are close to my heart.

We begin our season with The Wizard of Oz which is my all-time favorite childhood classic. I was honored to play Dorothy as a senior in high school, and that experience left a lasting mark on my heart. I still have a full collection of Oz memorabilia. Beyond the nostalgia, it’s the story’s message that continues to resonate for me. No matter where life takes you, you can always find your people, your chosen family, and still stay connected to where you began. Also, GCPA is built around the pillars our four friends are seeking. We’re a community built on compassion, strength, and inquisitiveness, reminding each other that “there’s no place like home.”

From Oz’s timeless journey, we jump into the high-energy world of Grease. This one also holds a special place in my story as I’ve played Jan three times, the most memorable being where I met my husband and my core, life-long friend group. (Shout out to the Shawnees!) It’s a classic, and while some of its themes reflect a different era, at its core Grease is about young people figuring out who they are, how they fit in, and how to stay true to themselves in the process. That exploration is exactly what makes working with young artists so inspiring. They’re right in the middle of that same journey, discovering who they want to be both onstage and off.

Next up, we return to Frozen Kids and this one feels like a celebration. This is our firstever official repeat of a production. We first staged Frozen in 2021, just as we were finding our way back after COVID. It was a masked, limited performance, but it carried so much joy and healing at a time we needed it most. Bringing it back now for ages 6 11, along with Frozen Jr. for ages 11 - 16, gives us the chance to revisit that story of love, bravery, and sisterhood - this time, without barriers. For many of our students, Frozen is their “Oz,” and I can’t wait to see new performers find their voices in Arendelle with this registration-based production.

For our audition-based programs, we have a first! Our middle group will tackle a fulllength production of The Lightning Thief. This will be for ages 11–16 and gives this group a bigger stage and a bigger challenge. Very similar to Oz, The Lightning Thief follows a young person on an epic journey of self-realization along with loyal companions and a lot of magic. I’m excited to watch our young artists rise to the occasion.

And then there’s Rent. This one has been on our “dream show” list for years - and for good reason. It’s Executive Director Paul Pagano’s all-time favorite, and one that has shaped countless performers and theatre lovers alike. Rent is a rock musical that follows a group of young artists and friends in New York City as they navigate love, friendship, and the challenges of life and creativity while confronting the impact of the AIDS epidemic. Because of its mature themes, we extended the age range to 16–20, allowing older performers to take on material that pushes them artistically and emotionally.

Across every show this season, whether we’re skipping down the yellow brick road, dancing through Rydell High, or standing on the rooftops of New York, our performers are learning to take risks, tell stories, and find their people. As an artistic team, we’re constantly amazed by their growth, courage, and their ability to find joy in the work.

If you like what you see, please consider joining us on our mission to provide quality, challenging, and out-of-the-box theatre for St. Louis youth. See our shows, take our classes, spread the word, volunteer or donate. We’d love your GCPA story to begin today.

Stephanie Fox Artistic Director

Director's Note Being a Golden Age musical, many think that producing The Wizard of Oz is a relatively “simple” undertaking, and if you’re willing to give up the grandeur of the story it may be simple. But those who know GCPA know that we love a challenge, and to tell this story as completely as possible means we are not telling it “simply.”

This is, to date, the most elaborate technical show we have produced. Now you may be thinking, “But you made the Titanic sink on stage, and you flew actors in Matilda and 9 to 5, and you had projections in The Prom, and you had a Berloni dog in Annie.” You’re correct on all counts. And for The Wizard of Oz, we’re putting all of those elements together in one massive technical production: a set with enormous pieces, two sets of fly lines for actors and props alike, a false proscenium built entirely of LED panels, and we’ve brought Berloni dogs back to GCPA. Why would we do this? Because we want our young artists to experience what it’s like to put together, and participate in, a technically massive show. The type of teamwork required for a show of this technical magnitude is way beyond a show with only one or two of these elements. And when they go to a Broadway show, or The Fabulous Fox, or The Muny, they witness this level of difficulty executed seamlessly every time. Many of our young artists have a desire to work at that level, and we want to teach them what that looks like now.

In addition to the technical elements of this show, I had another challenge in telling this story on which I knew I couldn’t fail…this is Artistic Director Stephanie Fox’s favorite show. And when you’re working on one of your friend’s and teammate’s favorite shows, you don’t want to let them down. We have found a nice balance where I provided Stephanie moments of the storytelling that fit inside a superfan’s expectations for the show as well as added my own interpretation to elements of the story. I trust I’ve made Stephanie happy, and I look forward to the challenge of directing co-founders Lori Pagano’s and Ashleigh Blevins’s favorite shows in the future.

We could not have produced The Wizard of Oz in the way we have without the support of many individuals. First, I’d like to thank our board for allowing us to dream even bigger than we usually do for this production. Second is Purina. Thank you for supporting the youth of the St. Louis community and reminding us that our four-legged companions aren’t just pets, they are family. Next are our friends at KPAC. We are so grateful to be able to tell stories in this beautiful space, and when we went to them with all the big plans we had for this production, they eagerly identified ways they could help us make it happen. And lastly, you. Without individuals like yourselves who come out to support the young artists in St. Louis, our work couldn’t exist. Thank you, all, for your continued support of the future of musical theatre.

And remember, there’s no place like home.

Paul Pagano Director

Scenes & Songs Act 1

Scene 1 - The Gale’s Farm in Kansas

OVER THE RAINBOW.......................................................................................................Dorothy Scene 2 - Professor Marvel’s Caravan Scene 3 - The Gale’s Farm

Scene 4 - Munchkinland COME OUT, COME OUT................................................Glinda, Dorothy, & Munchkins DING-DONG! THE WITCH IS DEAD...........................Glinda, Mayor, & Munchkins FOLLOW THE YELLOW BRICK ROAD...................................Dorothy & Munchkins Scene 5 - A Cornfield IF I ONLY HAD A BRAIN..................................................Scarecrow, Dorothy, & Crows WE’RE OFF TO SEE THE WIZARD.............................................Dorothy & Scarecrow Scene 6 - An Apple Orchard IF I ONLY HAD A HEART.................Tinman, Dorothy, Scarecrow & Apple Trees WE’RE OFF TO SEE THE WIZARD........................Dorothy, Scarecrow, & Tinman Scene 7 - A Wild Forest LIONS, TIGERS, AND BEARS …………..…………………Dorothy, Scarecrow, & Tinman IF I ONLY HAD THE NERVE..........................Lion, Dorothy, Scarecrow, & Tinman WE’RE OFF TO SEE THE WIZARD............Lion, Dorothy, Scarecrow, & Tinman Scene 7 - A Field of Poppies POPPIES/OPTIMISTIC VOICE..........................................Glinda, Dorothy, Scarecrow Tinman, Lion, Wicked Witch, Poppies

Act 2

Scene 1 - Outside the Gates of Emerald City

OPTIMISTIC VOICES......................................................................................................Ensemble Scene 2 - Inside the Emerald City

MERRY OLD LAND OF OZ..............................Dororthy, Lion, Scarecrow, Tinman, Emerald City Guard, Citizens of Oz KING OF THE FOREST................….............Lion, Dorothy, Tinman, and Scarecrow Scene 3 - The Wizard’s Chamber Scene 4 - The Haunted Forest

THE JITTERBUG...........................Dorothy, Scarecrow,Tinman, Lion, & Jitterbugs

Scene 5 - The Witch’s Chamber THE MARCH OF THE WINKIES.....................….................................................The Winkies OVER THE RAINBOW (REPRISE)..…....................…...........…....................................Dorothy DING-DONG! THE WITCH IS DEAD........…....................................................The Winkies Scene 6 - The Wizard’s Chamber Scene 7 - Inside the Emerald City Scene 8 - The Gale’s Farm in Kansas

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Cast Cast SCARECROW Isaac Parker III GLINDA Julia Worley

DOROTHY Finley Mohr* TINMAN Isaac Barnes

LION Jackson Money

OZ WICKED WITCH Jay’Shawn McDaniel Audrey Schulz*

TOTO Nessa & Alfie GUARD Makai McClerking UNCLE HENRY Henry Byrne FLYER Delaney McCoy* NIKKO Brody Frank CROWS TREES GENERAL Levi Money^

Finley Carfield Corinne Colvin Madeline Smeds

LULLABYE LEAGUE Joylin Bass^ Mary Bleyer Eliza Mesh^

Ciara Cange Makai McClerking Simone Taylor*

MAYOR Ray Knickman CORONER Beaux Swoboda BARRISTER Claire Fiamingo^ GENERAL Griffin King

MUNCHKIN SOLOISTS Margot Mead, Eliza Mesh^, Leanna Myers^, Abigail Padrucco, Georgia Reynolds, Jo Strahlman

LOLLIPOP GUILD Roman Boric^ Brody Frank Paul Knickman

MUNCHKINS Nora Battaglia, Olivia Hargrove, Elise Lewandowski

MONKEYS Roman Boric^, Ciara Cange, Claire Fiamingo^, Echo Pentz* ENSEMBLE Adalyn Baron*, Mia Battaglia, Emsley Christ, Mira Friedman^, Campbell Fuchs^, Kathryn Pierce*^, Paige Presnall^, Onyx Smith, Rose Thompson UNDERSTUDIES DOROTHY...Delaney McCoy SCARECROW...Ciara Cange LION...Makai McClerking GLINDA...Adalyn Baron OZ...Levi Money NIKKO...Echo Pentz * Denotes a member of CrAFT

^Denotes a member of Show Starters

Who's Who

Isaac Barnes

Adalyn Baron

Joylin Bass

Mia Battaglia

Nora Battaglia

Mary Bleyer

Roman Boric

Henry Byrne

Ciara Cange

Finley Carfield

Emsley Christ

Corinne Colvin

Claire Fiamingo

Brody Frank

Mira Friedman

Campbell Fuchs

Olivia Hargrove

Griffin King

Paul Knickman

Raymond Knickman

Elise Lewandowski

Makai McClerking

Delaney McCoy

Jay’Shawn McDaniel

Margot Mead

Who's Who

Eliza Mesh

Finley Mohr

Jackson Money

Levi Money

Leanna Myers

Abigail Padrucco

Isaac Parker

Echo Pentz

Kathryn Pierce

Paige Presnall

Georgia Reynolds

Audrey Schulz

Madeline Smeds

Onyx Smith

Jo Strahlman

Simone Taylor

Beaux Swoboda

Rose Thompson

Alfie

Nessa

Julia Worley

Thank you to our Production Sponsor

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Youth Creative Team

Nobily Forder

Chloe Jennings

Ricco Martin Jr.

Brayden Liberton

Jillian Romano

Band

Marie Brown

Mo Carr

Michael Frazier

Basil Hand

Bill Howells

Kaylin Knost

Adam Kopff

Kris Pineda

Brandon Thompson

Neil Zundel

Who's Who Isaac Barnes (Tinman), makes his GCPA debut in this production. He has performed in Shrek the Musical, Fantastic Mr. Fox, The Boys Next Door, and Cinderella. He has also sung with Concert Choir, Solo & Ensemble, All-Suburban Choir, and the E. Des Lee Honor Choir, and he is very grateful and excited for this opportunity.

Adalyn Baron (Ensemble, u/s Glinda) (she/her) is a junior and is very excited to be in another GCPA production this fall.

Adalyn’s previous GCPA credits include Ensemble in Prom, Mrs. Sowerberry / Strawberry Seller in Oliver!, Ensemble in Ragtime, Muriel in Newsies Jr., and Cowgirl Bonnie in Footloose: Youth Edition. Adalyn has worked with DaySpring Arts and Education, performing as a Lead Cheerleader in High School Musical and Countess Lilly in Anastasia. Adalyn is a member of GCPA’s CrAFT program. She studies private voice lessons with Ashleigh Blevins (GCPA) and takes several classes at GCPA. Adalyn loves to sing and perform.

Adalyn would like to thank her family and friends for supporting her.

Joylin Bass (Lullabye League) is over the rainbow excited to be part of The Wizard of Oz! She loves musical theater and can usually be found singing, dancing, or acting out her favorite shows around the house. When she’s not in Munchkinland, you can find her lending her voice as Uniqua from The Backyardigans. Joylin thanks her family, friends, and GCPA teachers for their support and endless encouragement and looks forward to following the yellow brick road wherever her love of theater leads!

Mia Battaglia (Ensemble, School show: Tree) is an 8th grader and thrilled to be traveling to Oz! She most recently appeared at GCPA as one of the Three Pigs in Shrek and in the ensemble of The Prom.

Other favorite roles include GCPA’s School of Rock (Summer) and Amélie (Young Amélie), Seussical Jr. (The Cat in the Hat) at Stray Pups Theatre, The Sound of Music (Brigitta) at Kirkwood Theatre Guild, Matilda Jr. (Matilda) at Stages Performing Arts Academy, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at The Muny. Endless thanks to everyone at GCPA! Nora Battaglia (Munchkin) is in the fourth grade and so excited to be in her first GCPA main stage show (and sharing the stage with her big sister, Mia)! She most

recently performed as JoJo in Seussical Kids at GCPA, and in the ensemble of The Little Mermaid Jr. at Stray Pups Theatre.

Her other GCPA shows include 101 Dalmatians (Jasper), Schoolhouse Rock (Interplanet Janet), and Finding Nemo (Pearl). Nora also loves art, dance, and building with Legos! Thanks to all at GCPA for this opportunity.

Mary Bleyer (Lullabye League) is a 5th grader and is thrilled to be a part of the Lullaby League in Oz! She grew up singing and dancing in GCPA’s Musical Makers class and always enjoys performing with friends in GCPA's summer camp productions: Shrek Jr., Finding Nemo Kids, Willy Wonka Kids, and Frog and Toad. A highlight of her week is piano lessons with Kiley Kozel’s Studio. She also enjoys Girl Scouts, playing the cello in the after-school strings program, softball, and swimming!

Roman Boric (Lollipop Guild, Monkey) (he/him), a 6th grader, is thrilled to be part of The Wizard of Oz! Some of his favorite past roles include Randy Parker in A Christmas Story (GCPA), Nigel in Matilda (Shooting Star Productions), Young Alfred in Alice By Heart (GCPA), and Scuttle in The Little Mermaid (Stray Pups Theatre). "Many thanks to my family, friends, and the cast and crew of Oz!” Henry Bryne (Uncle Henry), a 10th grader, is excited to be a part of the wonderful cast of Oz! Credits include Oliver! (GCPA), Hello, Dolly! (Shooting Star Productions), Curious Savage, Middletown, Curtains, Titus Andronicus, and The Man Who Came to Dinner (Kirkwood High School).

Ciara Cange (Crow, Monkey, u/s Scarecrow), is marking her sixth production with GCPA in The Wizard of Oz! Some of her favorite roles include: Elsa in Frozen (GCPA), Buttons in Newsies (GCPA), and Youth Choir Ensemble in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (The Muny). Ciara is a freshman at Nerinx Hall High School and is extremely excited for her return to the stage after a year of skillbuilding and variety. While musical theatre and dance are her main passions, she also enjoys baking, soccer, dogs, pickleball, piano, and Irish dancing. Ciara is incredibly grateful and excited to journey to Oz with this amazing cast and crew! Thank you, GCPA!

Finley Carfield (Tree, Ensemble) (she/her), a 9th grader, is thrilled to have an

Who's Who opportunity to be a part of The Wizard of Oz! From her first-ever role as an elephant in The Jungle Book Kids to performing in The Prom this past April, Finley loves any chance she can get to be on stage with the GCPA community. "I would like to thank my family and friends for always cheering me on!"

Emsley Christ (Ensemble) is excited to be back at GCPA for The Wizard of Oz! Credits include: Beetlejuice Jr. and Mean Girls Jr. (Ignite), Poe's Midnight Dreary (Stray Dog Theatre), A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Fiddler on the Roof, Young Frankenstein, and Shrek (Playhouse Productions), Nutcracker (Moscow Ballet), and Frozen Jr. at GCPA. She studies dance at Motion Express Dance and Acrobatics.

“Special thanks to my family for always supporting me!”

Corinne Colvin (Tree, Ensemble) (she/her) is ecstatic to be back at it again with GCPA for Oz! She has previously performed with GCPA in The Prom. Other notable credits include Mrs. George in Mean Girls and Mrs. Paroo in The Music Man (Spotlight Productions). She enjoys all forms of artsy things and hopes to continue telling whimsical stories by making theatre a career. Corinne thanks her parents, friends, and dog (who can be a little rascal) for always loving her work! Follow her @co.co.corinne on Instagram!

Claire Fiamingo (Barrister, Monkey, Dance Captain), a 7th grader, is thrilled to be part of this amazing Wizard of Oz cast! She has been a member of the GCPA family as a Show Starter for 3 years, dance and musical theatre performance classes, voice lessons with Sarah Vlodek, Dory in Nemo Kids, Nipper in Oliver!, and most recently Dragon in this summer's production of Shrek Jr. When not at her second home, GCPA, Claire can be found on the stage at her middle school and singing & dancing around the house. “Thank you to my family for always supporting me! Love you Mom, Dad & James.”

Brody Frank (Nikko, Lollipop Guild) is excited to be back at GCPA for this production. Favorite roles include Oliver in GCPA's Oliver!, Billy in GCPA's School of Rock, Les in GCPA's Newsies Jr., and Youth Ensemble in the Muny's Fiddler on the Roof. He has particularly loved performing as a member of the Muny Kids troupe for the past two summers. He is grateful to GCPA for the opportunity to fly!

Mira Friedman (Ensemble, Dance Captain) is thrilled to be a part of The Wizard of Oz! A seasoned young actor, singer, and dancer, Mira has performed in a variety of productions including The Addams Family, Coppélia, and Oliver! She has also been featured as Queen Elsa in Frozen Kids, White Rabbit in Alice in Wonderland Ballet, and Sour Kangaroo in Seussical Jr. Mira loves bringing characters to life on stage and is known for her energy, focus, and creative spirit. When she’s not performing, Mira enjoys dance, music, and spending time with her friends and family.

Campbell Fuchs (Ensemble) is so happy to be a part of Wizard of Oz. Some of her favorite previous roles have been Sky in Beetlejuice (Imagine Theater, Portland, OR), Young Alice in Alice By Heart (GCPA), Young Fiona in Shrek (Kirkwood Youth Theater) and Edgar in Aristocats (STAGES).

She is also a member of Show Starters and basically spends her life singing and dancing! Campbell loves running track, playing soccer and volleyball, and creating extravagant games for her 3 younger siblings. “Thanks for coming to the show!”

Olivia Hargrove (Munchkin) is 9 years old and excited to be making her GCPA main stage debut in The Wizard of Oz. Credits include: Wickersham 2 in Seussical Kids (GCPA), The Little Mermaid Jr. (Kirkwood Youth Theatre), Mean Girls Jr. (Kirkwood Youth Theatre), and Small Fish in Finding Nemo Kids (GCPA). In addition to performing, Olivia is active in karate, gymnastics, voice lessons, and Girl Scouts.

She sends love and thanks to her family, friends, and the Oz cast and crew for supporting her. Enjoy the show!

Griffin King (Braggart, School Show Mayor) Griffin has been enjoying the world of theater for the last year. He has had the opportunity to join in the cast of Shrek Jr. with GCPA, as well as community theater productions of Beauty & the Beast Jr. (LeFou), Little Mermaid Jr. (Scuttle), and Tuck Everlasting (Constable Joe). He has found a deep love for the theater and the amazing people he has met along the way.

Love to all of his supportive family and friends!

Paul Knickman (Lollipop Guild) is in 7th grade and making his GCPA debut in Oz. Paul has been in two other shows as Randolph MacAfee in Bye Bye Birdie (Fr. Scheid Players) and as Charlie the

Who's Who newsboy in The Absolutely True Story of King Arthur at his middle school. Paul is so excited to be part of the GCPA family and is thankful to all his family for their support.

Raymond Knickman (Munchkin Mayor) (he/him) is excited to be returning to the GCPA stage in The Wizard of Oz. Ray is in his freshman year at Chaminade College Preparatory School. His credits include Shrek in Shrek Jr. (GCPA), Asher in JATDC (SPAA), Pugsley in The Addams Family (SPAA), and more! Voice: Dr. Jeffrey Richard Carter. “Thanks for coming and enjoy the show!”

Elise Lewandowski (Munchkin) is 10 years old and in 4th grade. She is thrilled to be in her first main stage show at GCPA. Her favorite past productions include School House Rock (GCPA), Finding Nemo (GCPA), Hello, Dolly (Shooting Star Productions), Matilda (Shooting Star Productions), Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (Shooting Star Productions), and Frozen (Shrewsbury).

She also enjoys volleyball, soccer, lacrosse, basketball, dance, and piano. She would like to thank her voice teacher, Darcie Johnson, for being such a great coach. She would also like to thank the cast and crew for their hard work to create such an amazing show! She hopes you enjoy the show!

Makai McClerking (Guard, Crow, u/s Lion) is excited for their second show at GCPA. They first appeared in Into the Woods as the Steward / u/s Jack. Outside of theatre, Makai fences and sings in two different choirs. For the future, Makai plan to pursue a major in art therapy to help kids explore and express their emotions through creativity. “I’m so happy to be here!”

Delaney McCoy (Flyer, u/s Dorothy, School show: Glinda) is so excited to perform in another GCPA show! Some of her favorite past roles have been Alyssa in Prom (GCPA), Ermengarde in Hello Dolly (SSP), Katherine Plumber in Newsies Jr (GCPA), and Tessie in Annie (GCPA). Outside of theater, she is a captain of her schools cheerleading team and is also on her schools theater troupe board. Laney would like to thank her family and friends for their support and the entire company for another fantastic experience. Thank you for coming and enjoy the show!.

Jay’Shawn McDaniel (Oz) (he/him) is a senior and is excited to be a part of Oz as the Wizard himself! When not sparking

magic in the merry old land of Oz, Jay’Shawn enjoys writing, acting, singing, and traveling. Not only is Jay’Shawn a theatrical performer who is a part of the Missouri Thespian Society, he also leaped into the lens of on-screen acting, ranging from short films to cameos. When on and off stage, Jay’Shawn will always be welcoming — so why not say hello! Follow him at @alot_of_jayshawn on Instagram and his TikTok notenoughjay to stay updated!

Margot Mead (Munchkin Soloist) is a fourth grader who is beyond excited to be in the land of Oz. Some favorite roles include Nemo in GCPA’s production of Finding Nemo Kids and Gladys in KPAC’s production of Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Outside of theater, Margot also enjoys Irish dancing, playing the violin, and singing in her school choir. She would like to thank her family, friends, and teachers for supporting her in everything she does.

Eliza Mesh (Lullabye League, Munchkin soloist), a 5th grader, is thrilled to be in her first production with GCPA in The Wizard of Oz! Previously, Eliza has performed in Little Mermaid Jr. (Flounder, Shrewsbury Youth Theater), Finding Nemo Jr. (Bloat, SYT), Beauty and the Beast Jr. (Candle Seller/Teacup, SYT), and Aladdin Jr. (Ensemble, SYT), as well as in various church productions. Eliza is also part of GCPA’s Show Starters ensemble this year!

When she is not performing, Eliza loves to sing, craft, play piano, and read in her free time. She would like to thank her family and friends for supporting her in this production of The Wizard of Oz! Finley Mohr (Dorothy) is thrilled to be a part of this production of Wizard of Oz! Select credits include: Into the Woods (Florinda), The Prom (Ensemble), and Ragtime (Ensemble) at GCPA, Ruthless!

(Tina) at Stray Dog Theatre, and Peter and the Starcatcher (Ted) at her high school.

She would like to thank the cast, crew, and creative team, plus her mom for always driving her around!

Jackson Money (Lion) is excited to be back on stage with GCPA during his sophomore year of high school! Some of his past credits include: Horton in Seussical Jr. (GCPA), Adam in Beetlejuice Jr. (Ignite), Bumble in Oliver! (GCPA), and Patrick in The Spongebob Musical: Youth Edition (GCPA). When not on stage, he loves

Who's Who watching horror movies, hanging out with his friends, and playing video games.

Levi Money (General, u/s Oz) is back for his 4th show with GCPA. He is in 8th grade and some of his past credits include: Greg Hefley in Diary of a Wimpy Kid The Musical (STL Theatre Kids), Sebastian in The Little Mermaid Jr. (STAGES), Charles in Beetlejuice Jr. (Ignite), Mike Teavee in Wonka Jr., and Shrek Jr. (twice! — once as Lord Farquaad and once as Big Bad Wolf / u/s Donkey). When he's not performing, he loves reading, art, playing video games, and hanging out with friends.

Leanna Myers (Munchkin Soloist), a 7th grader, is excited to return to the KPAC stage after appearing a year ago in GCPA’s Oliver! (Fagin’s Gang). She is a second-year member of GCPA's Show Starters. Other credits include: Shrek, Jr. (Ensemble, u/s Young Fiona) and Nemo Kids (Sheldon / Turtle Kid) with GCPA, The Little Mermaid, Jr. (Flotsam) with Stray Dog Theatre, and The Enchanted Bookshop (Fagin / Dolittle / Frankenstein) with Alfresco Productions.

See her movie debut next year as Noah in Goosebumps: The Haunted Mask with KC Blaze Productions! She studies in the Bailey Voice Studio. Leanna enjoys taking care of her cat Mobil and spending time with her amazing theater friends. Love to her Mom, Dad, Ella, Mobil, and Myrtle the turtle.

Abigail Padrucco (Munchkin Soloist) is thrilled to step onto the big stage with her breakout performance in The Wizard of Oz. She has previously taken on the lead role of Nemo in Finding Nemo and charmed audiences as Waffle the Mouse in A Year with Frog and Toad. Abby brings passion, energy, and joy to every performance and would like to thank her friend, Nora, for introducing her to the world of theater.

Isaac Parker (Scarecrow) is beyond ecstatic to be a part of The Wizard of Oz! Scarecrow is his dream role, so this was definitely a blessing for him. Isaac enjoys singing, acting, dancing, recording music, and writing music in his free time. You may have seen him in some of Hazelwood Central High School’s productions, including his role as Donkey in Shrek the Musical, Norman in Boys Next Door, and Christopher in Cinderella.

Echo Pentz (Ensemble, u/s Nikko) (they/them) is excited to be a part of Wizard of Oz! They are a sophomore in

high school and have been doing theater since 2017. They have participated in musical theater with GCPA in countless musicals including Ragtime, A Christmas Story, and Newsies. They have also worked as stage crew and costuming assistant for many performances including Into The Woods, Alice By Heart, and The Prom. They also enjoy cosplay, drawing, writing, and anything in the arts! Echo hopes everyone enjoys the show, and that all cast and crew break a leg!

Katheryn Pierce (Ensemble, School show: Flyer & Crow) is so excited to welcome you to Oz! She is an 8th grader and part-time high school student. Kathryn is a 4-year member of GCPA’s Show Starters (Dance Captain) and a 3-year member of Lindbergh’s Synchronicity show choir (President, Section Leader, Dance Captain).

She is also a new member of GCPA’s CrAFT program! Favorite past roles include Gingy in Shrek, Jr. (GCPA) and Elle Woods in Raise Your Voice, Jr. (Ignite Theatre Company). When she’s not performing, she enjoys lacrosse, cross country/track, ballet, robotics, clarinet, piano, Book Battle, and has won state medals for Science Olympiad. She’d like to thank her family, even her 3 older siblings who always tell her to stop singing.

Paige Presnall (Ensemble) is thrilled to join the cast for GCPA’s Wizard of Oz! Favorite roles include Teen Fiona in Shrek Jr. and Maleficent in Descendants at North Kirkwood Middle School, as well as performances in School of Rock, Oliver, and SpongeBob Jr. Catch her in GCPA’s Grease in spring 2026! A GCPA student since 2017, she studies voice and performs with the Show Starters ensemble. Paige also enjoys playing piano and flute and covering her favorite artists. She thanks her family, friends, and teachers for their endless support. !Georgia Reynolds (Munchkin Soloist), a 7th grader, is thrilled to be cast in her first GCPA production! Georgia had her acting debut when she was 8 years old as Tiny Tim in the Rep’s production of A Christmas Carol. Some of her favorite show credits include Shrek Jr., Mean Girls, The Little Mermaid Jr. (Kirkwood Youth Theater), Matilda, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and Hello Dolly (Shooting Star Productions).

Who's Who When she’s not performing, you can find her on the soccer or field hockey field! She would like to thank the entire GCPA cast and crew for all their hard work to create such an amazing show and her parents for supporting her and her Broadway dreams!

Audrey Schulz (Wicked Witch) (she/her) is ecstatic to be a part of this classic story!

Recent performance credits include Stepmother in Into the Woods (GCPA), Violet in 9 to 5 (Southeastern Summer Theatre Intensive), Shelby in The Prom (GCPA), and Cosette in Les Misérables (Clayton High School). Audrey is a member of the GCPA CrAFT program, takes voice with Lisa Campbell-Albert, and takes acting and dance at GCPA. Thank you to everyone for bringing Oz to life!

Madeline Smeds (Tree, Ensemble) (she/her) is so excited to be doing her 5th show with GCPA and 18th show in total!

She loves to sing, dance, and act, and in her free time she plays the violin and plays for her schools softball team. You might've seen her this summer as Gertrude in Seussical Jr., or as a Delta Nu in Legally Blonde. Madeline is so excited to be back at GCPA and hopes you enjoy the show!

Onyx Smith (Ensemble), a 10th grader, is making her GCPA debut in Oz! Recent shows include: A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Hippolyta), Tuck Everlasting (Mother), Curtains, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat! She does not have a messy room.

Jo Strahlman (Munchkin Soloist) is in 4th grade and is over-the-rainbow excited to be in The Wizard of Oz! She’s performed in Willy Wonka, Finding Nemo, and Seussical with GCPA, and The Little Mermaid at her school.

Jo caught the theater bug after seeing Mary Poppins at The Muny and hasn’t looked back since! When she’s not on stage, Jo is playing piano, dancing (Dance Center of Kirkwood), kicking around a soccer ball, bumping volleyballs, or curled up with a good book— and usually a pet or two. Jo would like to thank the directors for giving her this opportunity to be a part of a main stage, GCPA production.

Beaux Swoboda (Coroner) (he/him) is so excited to be a part of The Wizard of Oz! This is his second show at GCPA, his first being Lord Farquaad in Shrek Jr. this summer.

Other shows he has been in include Tuck Everlasting (Miles), Willy Wonka Jr. (Augustus Gloop), and Joseph and the Amazing

Technicolor Dreamcoat (Issachar), to name a few. “Thank you to my family, friends, and everyone who has helped make this show great!”

Simone Taylor (Crow, Ensemble), a 10th grader is so excited to be a part of The Wizard of Oz. She loves to sing, dance, and act on stage with her friends. When not on stage Simone enjoys working on her student council as class rep. She can’t wait to perform in The Wizard Of Oz. Love to Mom and Dad! Rose Thompson (Ensemble) is an 11th grader recently enrolled in Oakville High School after her 9th move as a military kid. She is so excited for The Wizard of Oz and plans to pursue a music education degree after high school. Aside from musical theatre, Rose has also played the flute for 6 years and sung in various choirs including 2 years of show choir where she was both a singer and choreographer.

Julia Worley (Glinda) is over the rainbow to be a part of The Wizard of Oz! Prior GCPA credits include The Prom (Mrs. Greene), Ragtime (Kathleen/Ensemble), and 9 to 5 (Ensemble / u/s Judy). Julia has also performed with The Muny in many productions as well as the Muny Kids & Teens troupes, and additional companies including Ignite Theatre Company, Rockwood Summit High School, CBC High School, and more, with a few favorite roles including Ursula (The Little Mermaid), Emily Hobbs (Elf), and Wendy (Peter Pan). Julia has trained extensively in voice, dance, and musical theatre, and she thanks her teachers, friends, and family for their endless encouragement —and reminds them, in Glinda’s words, “You’ve always had the power, my dear, you just had to learn it for yourself.”

YOUTH CREATIVE TEAM Nobily Forder (Assistant Stage Manager) is a 12th grader and is so excited to be an Assistant Stage Manager for The Wizard of Oz! Credits include: Crew for Ragtime and Alice by Heart, as well as being in the ensemble for The Prom — all at GCPA. Scenic painting for the classic mystery game Clue and 12 Angry Jurors. Scenic painting and mic board for Les Misérables, all through school theater troupe.

Chloe Jennings (Assistant Music Director) (she/her) is so excited for everyone to see The Wizard of Oz! Select credits include:

Who's Who Youth Ensemble in Come From Away (MUNY), Emma Nolan in The Prom (GCPA), Assistant Music Director for Into the Woods (GCPA), Assistant Stage Manager for Oliver!

(GCPA). Chloe is a member of GCPA’s CrAFT College (Creating Artists Through Focused Training) program and studies voice with the incredible Music Director of The Wizard of Oz, Lori Barrett-Pagano. She would like to thank the cast, crew, and creative team behind this beautiful show!

Instagram: @chloe._.jenningsss Brayden Liberton (Costume Assistant) Brayden Liberton is ecstatic to be working as the Costume Assistant for The Wizard of Oz. Brayden most recently worked on crew and costuming for Shrek Jr. at GCPA, but he also has many onstage passions as well.

He has played roles like Jesse Tuck (Tuck Everlasting), Charlie Bucket (Willy Wonka Jr.), and Bob Cratchit (A Christmas Carol).

Enjoy the show (and the costumes)!!

Ricco Martin Jr. (Assistant Director) is thrilled to be Assistant Directing Oz! Stage credits include the works of Little Shop of Horrors, Ragtime, Beauty and the Beast, The Prom, Into the Woods, The WIZ Jr., and more! Professionally, he has performed in STAGES St. Louis’ premieres of In the Heights and AIDA, receiving STL Theatre Circle Awards and Broadway World recognition. Ricco can also be heard as the voice of "Tyler" in Nine PBS and Lion Forge Animation’s Mid-America Emmynominated series Drawn In, streaming at drawnin.org and Nine PBS. “Thanks to God, Momma, family, friends, and all for their continuous love and support!!”

IG: @riccotherealessttt Jillian Romano (Assistant Stage Manager) (she/her) is a freshman at Kirkwood High School! She has been doing theatre since she was 6 years old and loves it! She is a dancer, cellist, and photographer! She is also a member of Team Stages and has been seen in shows with Stages before.

She has really enjoyed getting to work with all of these talented actors, directors, and choreographers! She is very proud of all of these actors and cannot wait to see them shine on the stage! So, so, so much love to everyone involved, and break all the legs!

Instagram:@jill_romano3 and @jill_romano_photography

CREATIVE TEAM Paul Pagano (Director and Executive Director) (he/him), a native of St. Louis, received his BA in Drama from Washington University and Masters in Theatre Education from Fontbonne University. As a proud member of Actors’ Equity Association since 2001, Paul has had the opportunity to work with the Guthrie Theatre, Utah Shakespeare Festival, Children’s Theatre Company, Chanhassen Dinner Theatre, Hey City Theatre, the MUNY, STAGES St. Louis, HotCity Theatre, and many others. As a director and fight choreographer, in addition to 30+ productions at GCPA, credits include the MUNY, Washington University, Fontbonne University, Missouri All-State Theatre, and Kirkwood Theatre Guild. As an instructor, Paul has taught at GCPA, COCA, St. Louis University High School, and STAGES Performing Arts Academy. Love to wife, Lori, and kids, Xavier and Kalia!

Lori Barrett-Pagano (Music Director & Managing Director) (she/her) is a Co-Founder of GCPA. She earned her Master of Music in Vocal Performance from Washington University in St. Louis. She has been teaching voice for over 25 years – currently as an adjunct voice faculty at St. Louis University, as well as voice and classes at GCPA. She is a proud member of Actors’ Equity.

Professionally, Lori has performed with The MUNY, STAGES St. Louis, Union Avenue Opera, Echo Theatre, Spotlight Theatre, MainStage Musicals and SIUE Summer Showbiz. Regional credits include The Minnesota Opera, North Star Opera, Minneapolis Musical Theatre, Theatre in the Round, and The Gilbert & Sullivan Very Light Opera Company. Lori is proud of the hard work and dedication of this amazing cast!

Thanks to my wonderful band members!

Much Love to Paul, Xavier, and Kalia.

Stephanie Fox (Choreographer and Artistic Director) (she/her) is originally from Oklahoma and graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma with a Bachelor of Music: Music Theatre and continued her studies independently in New York. As a proud member of Actors’ Equity (Stephanie Long) she has performed regionally, on National tour and in New York. In St. Louis, Stephanie has taught at COCA, STAGES, and choreographed for 8 years at Chaminade College Prep along with numerous

Who's Who professional choreography credits. “This one is for my three friends from my 2000 production: Jill, Mary and Annie. And for my mom who fed my Oz collection as long as she could. And for Sammer-pants. The Toto to my Dorothy.”

Finn Clark (Sound Engineer) a senior in high school, is excited to be a part of GCPA's The Wizard of Oz! His light and sound credits include James and the Giant Peach (LUSO), Little Women (LUSO), Seussical Jr. (GCPA), and Jungle Book (GCPA), as well as GCPA's Show Starters and Class Finales. Outside of technical theatre, he is an avid filmmaker, audio engineer, musician, producer, and is a finalist in the St. Louis Teen Talent Competition at the Fox. "Special thanks to the fantastic team at GCPA, my family, and my girlfriend, Aria!"

Michael Perkins (Projection Designer) returns to GCPA, previously designing for The Prom (Broadway World Regional Nominee). Recent design clients: Riverside Theatre Project, Tesseract Theatre, Upstream Theatre, COCAdance, Prison Performing Arts, Albion Theatre, The Midnight Company, New Jewish Theatre, and many others. Michael teaches acting & technical theatre at Grand Center Arts Academy and manages the academy’s historic Sun Theater. He has a BFA in Directing from Lindenwood University and an MA in Theatre Education from University of Houston. Many thanks to Paul, Stephanie, and the entire Wizard of Oz company! Love to Southampton & Kit, Mauler & Backstabber. Upcoming: Little Shop of Horrors (GCAA); The Outsiders (Maplewood Richmond Heights High School). @musgraveperkins Caroline Pillow (Stage Manager) graduated with her Bachelor's of Music in Musical Theatre and a minor in Theatrical Directing from Oklahoma City University in 2024 and is now a professional actor, director, and teacher here in St. Louis. She has had the opportunity to direct with the Texas Shakespeare Festival, North Texas Performing Arts, The St. Louis Jewish Community Center, Memphis' Playhouse on the Square, and the Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Department. Recent acting credits include Footloose (Vi Moore), Cabaret (Fritzie/Kost/Dance Captain), Grease (Jan), and The Light in the Piazza (Margaret Johnson). Caroline gives her many thanks to Paul, Lori, and Stephanie for welcoming her to GCPA and trusting her with this opportunity.

Lastly, she gives all her love to her wonderful partner, incredible family, and her precious cat Lion. carolinepillow.com @carolinecpillow

Abby Pastorello (Wig, Hair and Make-Up Designer) is the current resident Costume Designer for STLCC, Meramec Theatre. She wants to thank her loved ones for their endless love and support in pursuing her passion. Favorite past credits for design include: Legally Blonde (Ignite Theatre Company), Jekyll and Hyde (MASC), Wizard of Oz (Cor Jesu Academy), A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder, Boeing Boeing, (KTG), James and the Giant Peach, Murder at the Howard Johnson’s, The Glass Menagerie, (STLCC), Suddenly Last Summer (TWFSTL), The Man Who Came To Dinner (AFL Winner for Outstanding Costume Design).

You can stay up to date with Abby’s career @abby_pastorello_designs Andrea Robb (Costume Design) is a lifelong learner and theatre artist with a B.A. in Psychology, a B.A. in Theatre, an M.A. in Theatre, and is currently a PhD student working towards a Doctoral Degree in Performance Psychology. She is an Instructor of Theatre and Health & Sports Sciences at Missouri Baptist University.

She has participated in over fifty productions over the last ten years, ranging from community to collegiate to professional. Some of her favorite roles include The Sour Kangaroo (Seussical the Musical TYA), Lisa (Falling), and Cinderella (Into the Woods). Her favorite design and directing credits include Newsies! (costume design), Anything Goes (costume design), The Drowning Girls (direction; KCACTF Region V commendation for Best Directing), and, obviously, Into the Woods (costume design) with GCPA. George Shea (Scenic Designer, Props Class Designer/Instructor) is a St. Louis based multi disciplined designer, with experience in creative direction, scenic design, prop and costume design, design solutions, and communication services for a wide variety of high-profile clients from initial conceptualization to the final product.

George has been designing for G​CPA since 2021 with The Wizard of Oz​,​ Oliver, Ragtime, 9 to 5​, Willy Wonka, Newsies, and A​ Christmas Story​, to name a few; Chaminade Preparatory School - Diary of a​ Wimpy Kid, Puffs, The Alibis, A Christmas Carol, Little Shop of Horrors,​ and Oklahoma; additional theater companies include - Marquette High School;​ Fly North Theatricals; NGTC/Vivre’ Theatre; West End Players Guild; Bluff City​ Theater; Motion Express School of Dance and Acrobatics since 1991.

Who's Who

BAND Marie Brown (Cello) is a native of the Metro East area and known for her specialization in string pedagogy and cello performance. She has collaborated and performed with artists in the past such as Michael Bublé, Disturbed, Christine Brewer and the Eagles. Marie graduated in Spring 2015 with a Bachelor of Music in Music Education and Cello performance from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Marie also has a large private studio that spans the Greater St. Louis area as well as teaching for Halpin Music Company She is a musician with Diamond Empire Band, a founding member of the Eads String Quartet, and Rosewood Ensemble. Ms. Brown has collaborated with several theater companies in the area including Tesseract Theater Company and Webster Conservatory as well as being a regular pit musician at the Muny. Marie also performs with several orchestras in the area including Metropolitan Orchestra STL and Salem Chamber Orchestra. Currently Ms. Brown teaches 5th-8th grade orchestra for Pattonville School District.Theater Company and Webster Conservatory as well as being a regular pit musician at the Muny. Marie also performs with several orchestras in the area including Metropolitan Orchestra STL and Salem Chamber Orchestra. Currently Ms. Brown teaches 5th-8th grade orchestra for Pattonville School District.

Mo Carr (Trumpet) (they/them) is absolutely ecstatic to be back working with GCPA! Select past credits with this company include Something Rotten, Annie, The Music Man, and Titanic. Other local credits in Into the Woods (Stray Dog), Beauty and the Beast (Nerinx Hall), and Sister Act (KTK). When not playing in musical pits you can find them performing in several large ensembles, including Band Together and the Belleville Philharmonic. They hope you enjoy the show as much as they have had being a part of it. Cheers!

Basil Hand (Bass) As a former GCPA student, Basil is excited to be involved with GCPA in a different medium. They’ve previously played with Tufts University’s Symphony Orchestra and in the newly formed St Louis Video Game Orchestra.

Michael Frazier (Keys) a native of the St. Louis area, received his Bachelor of Arts in Music from Cedarville University and Master of Music from SIUE. Michael has been working as a musician and music director in the St. Louis area for over 25 years. He currently works for

the Alton School District and freelances for various theaters and schools in the area. When not playing the piano, Michael enjoys photography and playing with his new granddaughter Remi!

Bill Howells (Trombone) Bill has performed with numerous community theatre groups, including a Chicago production of West Side Story; Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Cheaper by the Dozen in the Los Angeles area; and GCPA’s Ragtime and The Prom. Back in the day, he played lead trombone for the Ashley Williams Big Band in Pasadena and currently attends Webster Groves Christian Church where he played Light a Candle: A Christmas Oratorio. Recently, he performed the St Louis premier of Aaron Copeland's The Second Hurricane with Stray Dog Theatre.

Kaylin Knost (Reeds) is a STL based woodwind musician and educator. She is the lead Band Director at Rockwood Valley Middle School.

Kaylin has played for pits over the years with Act Two Theatre, COCA, Spotlight, Hawthorne Players, and Vivre Theatre. In addition to playing, she has led the Pit Orchestra at Marquette High School for the past 4 years where their 2025 production of Drowsy Chaperone was nominated for 11 SLHSMTA/Ken Page Awards including best Pit Orchestra.

Thank you for coming to support local theater!

Adam J. Kopff (Percussion) has been a freelance percussionist in St. Louis for over 40 years. In this time, he has performed as a timpanist for Pope John Paul II, Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H. Bush, and thousands of people at Riverport when he performed with the Moody Blues Orchestra.

Adam is an accomplished Pit Dummer/ Percussionist, and has performed in thousands of musical theatre productions with companies such as: The Muny, Webster University Conservatory, Washington University, St. Louis University, Missouri Baptist University, Citilites, New Line Theatre, and various private high schools. Adam studied for over a decade with Joseph Geraghty, whose students included Rich O’Donnell (SLSO) and Al Payson (Chicago Symphony), and even Fred Pierce (of Drum Shop fame). Instead of garnering a degree in Music, Adam chose to earn a BA in Economics, and later an MBA. During the day, Adam is the Secretary/Treasurer of AFM Local 2-197, where he helps musicians with all kinds of matters.

Adam is a member of the Percussive Arts Society and the AFM, local 2-197.

Who's Who Kris Pineda (Keys) completed his Doctorate of Musical Arts and Masters of Music in piano performance at the University of Texas at Austin, where he was a student of Anton Nel. A native of Illinois, he received his bachelor of music degree from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, studying with Dr. Linda Perry.

Kris has performed piano recitals throughout the United States in such notable venues as Weill Hall in Carnegie Hall, the Touhill Performing Arts Center in St. Louis, and the Sheldon Concert Hall. Equally at home as a collaborative artist, Kris keeps a busy schedule of performance not only as a pianist, but also as a brass instrumentalist (French horn, trombone, and euphonium). Dr. Pineda has served as Director of Keyboard Studies at SIUE where he taught applied solo and collaborative piano at the undergraduate and graduate levels. He is currently working as the staff piano technician at SIUE. Brandon Thompson (Reeds) is a professional musician who specializes in woodwind doubling (saxophone / clarinet / flute / oboe) and music directing. He is currently an Operations Lead for Team Nissan at Ansira Inc. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Lindenwood University where he studied for five years. He now lives in Maryland Heights with his partner, Peter, and his dog, Colby.

Brandon is excited for his 4th GCPA show.

Neil Zundel (Violin) Violinist and Violist, Neil has been performing since the age of nine. As part of the Webster University Pre College Preparatory Program, Neil competed in both the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition and Plowman Chamber Music Competition. In 2006, he was accepted into the Prestigious Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, where he studied with Atar Arad and Mimi Zweig. After graduating from Webster University in 2010 with a degree in Viola performance, Neil continued studies at Queens College Aaron Copland School of Music where he studied with violinist Linda Sinanian. Throughout his education, Neil has had a focus on chamber music, receiving coaching from members of the Arianna String Quartet, Orion String Quartet, David Halen, Charles Neidich, and János Starker. Currently Neil performs music from many genres around the St. Louis area, ranging from classical opera to contemporary musicals.

SUPPORT GCPA It doesn’t take much time around here to hear the word “home” ingrained in the way we talk about GCPA. Our mission is to provide exceptional performing arts opportunities for all people, and in doing that, we’ve found ourselves a home to many. For some, it’s in a voice lesson, singing away the cares of the day; Others, digging deep into the truths of a challenging text and working on acting technique to bring it to life. Still others find expression through creative movement, connecting with their bodies through the many genres of dance offered in our studios.

So many find their “family” on stage, performing in our Youth Theatre Company productions and finding community that carries them through formative years and into young adulthood.

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Gateway Center for Performing Arts MISSION Gateway Center for Performing Arts (GCPA) seeks to strengthen, enrich, and shape the communities of St. Louis by providing exceptional performing arts exposure, education, and expression.

VISION GCPA believes maximum individual and community impact happens in the space where art meets life. We strive to create access to this space for ALL people for the growth of relationships, community, and culture for the development of performing arts disciplines to achieve lifelong success GCPA supports artists to thrive in this space by providing professional training through a leveled curriculum and providing opportunities to express and experience high-quality performing arts by engaging our communities and owning opportunities to make them stronger by committing to leave our differences at the door and embrace our common ground as people moved by, and moving others through, art.

CONTACT INFORMATION 8045 Big Bend Blvd. Suite 200 Webster Groves, MO 63119 314.274.7702 info@gcpastl.org gcpastl.org

GCPA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jason Battaglia President

Rebecca Schulz

Elaine Goldman

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Secretary

Karen Bland Binh Gant Dave Gant Lauren Knickman Beth Schartner

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