DAVID ELLENSTEIN
Welcome to Laguna Playhouse,
A world premiere! Creating a brand-new play for the theatre is an exciting and involved process. Having had such success with Paul Slade Smith’s previous plays; Unnecessary Farce, The Outsider and The Angel Next Door, it was natural to turn to Paul to create a new comedic script to continue our season.
First the idea, then the beginnings of the early drafts, the discussion of casting and scheduling, the setting and requirements for production all start to line up. Countless conversations and intricate planning. A workshop around the table leading into rehearsals and finally to performance—the birth of a brand-new play, Beside Myself. Assembling a great team of actors and designers is key to the success of any theatrical venture, and especially with a new work that has no blueprint to follow. What we create here is now the standard that all others will begin with to create the show anew in other places. The decisions we make and the sensibility and artistic choices we employ are forever a part of the DNA of this script going forward.
I am so fortunate to have been able to collaborate with this talented and highly skilled group of theatre professionals. Their input and ideas have helped to craft and shape this play, and they have been a joy to work with. As I step away from my duties as Artistic Director at Laguna Playhouse, I am grateful for the people I have gotten to know and work with, and for the lifetime I have been able to spend raising the human spirit to the special optic of the stage. Please enjoy the world premiere of Beside Myself!
David Ellenstein, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
CHAIR: Lisa Hale
VICECHAIR: Justin Myers
TREASURER: Harley Bassman
SECRETARY: Je Winston
GOVERNANCE& NOMINATIONS: Jared K. Mathis
Heather Anne Chalmers
Torin J. Cunningham, MD
James Hale
Dr. Gary Jenkins
Barbara MacGillivray
Heidi Miller
Ryan Smith
Emeritus Trustees
Glenn E. Gray, Joe Hanauer, Otis Healy, Ilona Martin, Melinda Masson
Artistic Director David Ellenstein
Managing Director Adele Adkins
David Ellenstein Artistic Director Adele Adkins Managing Director
present
BESIDE MYSELF
BY PAUL SLADE SMITH
DIRECTED BY DAVID ELLENSTEIN
Starring:
Thomas Edward Daugherty, Erin Noel Grennan, Matthew Henerson, Jacquelyn Ritz, Alanna J. Smith, and Christopher M. Williams
Scenic Designer Marty Burnett
Costume Designer Alina Bokovikova
Properties Designer Michael Wogulis
Lighting Designer Matthew Novotny
Hair/Wig Designer Peter Herman
Sound Designer Aaron Rumley
Production Stage Manager Shannon Humiston
Actors and Stage Managers are members of Actors’ Equity Association.
OPENING NIGHT
NOVEMBER 2, 2025 |
MOULTON THEATRE, LAGUNA BEACH
BESIDE MYSELF was originally produced at North Coast Repertory Theatre, Solana Beach, California. David Ellenstein, Artistic Director.
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2025–2026 INSTITUTIONAL SPONSORS
THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE SUPPORT
THANK YOU TO OUR FOUNDATION SUPPORT
THE COMPANY
Colin & others ...........................
Thomas Edward Daugherty
Gemma Erin Noel Grennan
Karl & others Matthew Henerson
Dr. Thatcher & others ................................ Jacquelyn Ritz
Sylvie & others ..................................... Alanna J. Smith
Jerry & others .............................. Christopher M. Williams
INTERMISSION
There will be a 15 minute intermission.
Actors and Stage Managers are members of Actors’ Equity Association
Please be considerate to the performers and your fellow audience members by turning o any device that could emit light and/or sound.
ANY AUDIO OR VIDEO RECORDING OF THIS PRODUCTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
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THOMAS EDWARD DAUGHERTY
ERIN NOEL GRENNAN
JACQUELYN RITZ
ALANNA J. SMITH
MATTHEW HENERSON
CHRISTOPHER M. WILLIAMS
WHO’S WHO
THOMAS EDWARD DAUGHERTY (Colin & others) is thrilled to return to Laguna Playhouse in a second Paul Slade Smith world premiere after appearing in The Angel Next Door. Other Theatre: Quinn Carney in The Ferryman at New Village Arts Theatre; National Tours (Ragtime, Showboat); Kennedy Center (Bounce); Goodman Theatre (All’s Well That Ends Well, Bounce); Chicago Shakespeare (As You Like It, The Winter’s Tale, Troilus & Cressida); Drury Lane Oakbrook (1776, The Foreigner, A Chorus Line, Big); Marriott Lincolnshire (Houdini, the Musical); Apple Tree Theatre (Old Wicked Songs, The Dying Gaul); New American Theatre (Picasso at the Lapin Agile); Montana’s Shakespeare in the Parks (Macbeth, The Country Wife). Training: BFA Musical Theatre, University of Michigan—Go Blue! Tom’s day-job: Employment law attorney at Klinedinst PC. Much love and many thanks to Jacquelyn Ritz, Nick, Zach, and Caroline for making this possible.
ERIN NOEL GRENNAN (Gemma) happily returns to Laguna Playhouse, where she previously appeared as Olga in the world premiere of The Angel Next Door. Regional credits include: Incident at Our Lady of Perpetual Help (North Coast Rep); Theatre People (Westport Playhouse - Connecticut Critics Circle award); The Outsider (Paper Mill Playhouse - Broadway World award); Reckless (Cincinnati Playhouse); Unnecessary Farce, Wit (Boarshead Theatre); Timon of Athens (Chicago Shakespeare); A Moon for the Misbegotten (Je award nom), Blithe Spirit, The Taming of the Shrew (First Folio Theatre); A Christmas Carol (Geva); A Flea in Her Ear, The Foreigner, The Man Who Came To Dinner (Drury Lane); Noises O (Totem Playhouse); Making God Laugh, Miracle On South Division (TATC); King O’ The Moon (Mercury); eight seasons with Peninsula Players Theatre, two seasons with Gaiety Theatre, Ireland. TV/Film: “The Other Two”, “Dr. Death”, “Bull”, “Law and Order: SVU”, “Blue Bloods”, “FBI”; “Chicago Med”, “Chicago Fire”, the upcoming film, “Thoughts & Prayers”, and umpteen commercials. For the tall guy, always. erinnoelgrennan. com
MATTHEW HENERSON (Karl and others) At Laguna Playhouse: Twelve Angry Men. In OC: Hamlet, Shakespeare In Love, She Loves Me, and You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown for South Coast Repertory. Regional work includes the Ahmanson, ACT, American Shakespeare Center, Deaf West, Denver Center, La Jolla Playhouse, Mark Taper Forum, North Coast Repertory, Northern Stage, San Diego Repertory, and Shakespeare Festivals in Arizona, Colorado, Marin, San Francisco, Santa Cruz and Utah. Film: “A Christmas Carol”, “Mars Needs Moms” and “Jungle Book” for Disney. Television: “The Bernie Mac Show”, “Hung”, “The Fosters”, “One Day at a Time”, and recurring as SA Carl Laughlin on “NCIS: Origins”.
JACQUELYN RITZ (Dr. Thatcher and others) Laguna Playhouse debut. Regional theatre highlights include the Kennedy Center in Stephen Sondheim’s Bounce (directed by Harold Prince), the Goodman Theatre, Milwaukee Repertory (Lovers and Executioners, Marvellous Wonderettes – originating the role of Cindy Lou), Colorado Shakespeare Festival (Hamlet with Val Kilmer), Northlight Theatre and the Baroness in La Jolla Playhouse’s Lempicka directed by Rachel Chavkin. Very active in San Diego, she is a founding member of the newly formed Poway Shakespeare. She is proud to have appeared in numerous shows at North Coast Repertory (title character in Annabella in July, Bloomsday, How the Other Half Loves, Chapter Two, and Fallen Angels, etc.). She is the voice of Madame Blueberry (and others) in “VeggieTales”. AEA and SAG/AFTRA. More info at www.JacquelynRitz.com
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ALANNA J. SMITH (Sylvie and others) is delighted to make her Laguna Playhouse debut with Beside Myself after a successful run at North Coast Rep. She was last seen in Southern California as Hodel opposite Jason Alexander in Fiddler on the Roof (La Mirada). On screen, Alanna has appeared in “Love Afloat” (Amazon), “Chang Can Dunk” (Disney+), “FBI: Most Wanted”(CBS), and “Power Book II: Ghost” (Starz). Select theatre credits include Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Young Frankenstein, Noises O , The Importance of Being Earnest (Walnut Street Theatre), A Comedy of Tenors, Smoke & Mirrors (Florida Studio Theatre), The Wanderers (Lantern Theatre), Pride & Prejudice (Peterborough Players). Follow along @alannajsmith
CHRISTOPHER M. WILLIAMS (Jerry and others) is excited to return to Laguna after performing in Tartu e, Holmes & Watson, Peril In the Alps and directing Don’t Dress For Dinner. He is a union actor and stage manager, as well as a director, producer, fight choreographer, designer, and instructor. Some of his credits include playing Nathan Rothschild in the original cast of the O -Broadway production of Rothschild & Sons; Hamlet On Trial with comedy legend Billy Connolly (Theatre League); The Drawer Boy and A Moon for the Misbegotten (AZ Theatre Company); Noises O (Idaho Shakespeare Festival and Phoenix Theatre); Angels In America: Part I & II, and Lobby Hero (Actors Theatre); Hamlet, Romeo & Juliet, Julius Caesar, Midsummer, Oliver!, West Side Story, A Funny Thing… Forum (Southwest Shakespeare Company). Over the past 20 years, he has directed, stage managed or performed in almost 40 productions at North Coast Repertory Theatre. He became Associate Artistic Director and Casting Director of NCRT following his duties as founding Artistic Director of Oceanside Theatre Company. He was producer, casting director, and on-set acting coach for the WWII feature “Walking With the Enemy,” starring Sir Ben Kingsley and Jonas Armstrong.
PAUL SLADE SMITH (Playwright) is an actor and playwright, who has previously appeared at Laguna Playhouse in both capacities. His play The Angel Next Door was seen on this stage in 2023. His earlier plays The Outsider and Unnecessary Farce have together received more than 550 productions worldwide. As an actor, Paul played the title role in The Remarkable Mr. Holmes here last season. In New York, his credits include the original Broadway casts of Finding Neverland, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and the Lincoln Center revival of My Fair Lady. Following its Broadway run, Paul starred as Willy Wonka in the Australian premiere of Charlie... Paul is grateful to this lovely cast, to Shannon in the booth, and to David Ellenstein, who made all of this possible. This one’s for Erin, without whom the play wouldn’t exist.
DAVID ELLENSTEIN (Director, Artistic Director of Laguna Playhouse) Born into a theatrical family, David Ellenstein has been working in professional theatre for the better part of five decades. In May 2023, he was named Artistic Director of Laguna Playhouse, after filling the role in an interim capacity since September 2022. In addition, he has been the Artistic Director of North Coast Repertory Theatre in Solana Beach, CA since 2003. At Laguna Playhouse, credits include directing Honky Tonk Angels, The Remarkable Mister Holmes, Eleanor, A View from the Bridge, Holmes & Watson, A Shayna Maidel, The Angel Next Door, Chapatti, Alexandros and playing Einstein in Picasso and Einstein at The Lapin Agile. Other directorial credits include The Chosen at Paper Mill Playhouse; Halpern
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WHO’S WHO continued...
and Johnson and Sonia Flew at Coconut Grove Playhouse; The Glass Menagerie, Rocket City and Honky Tonk Angels at Alabama Shakespeare Festival; His Royal Hipness at 59E59 in NYC; and Long Day’s Journey into Night at Renaissance Theatre. As Artistic Director at North Coast Repertory Theatre in Solana Beach since 2003, over 60 directorial credits including Beside Myself, Birthday Candles, Way Down River, The Tempest, A Moon for the Misbegotten, The Outsider and The Homecoming. His career includes acting credits of playing the title roles in Hamlet at LA Theatre Center and LA Rep; Richard III at California Shakespeare Festival; Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof at Moonlight Stage; Jonathan in Sight Unseen, Max in Laughter on the 23rd Floor and Matt in Talley’s Folly at North Coast Rep as well as over three dozen film and television episodes.
MARTY BURNETT (Set Design) At Laguna Playhouse designed A Gentleman’s Guide…, Chapatti, Alexandros, and transfer designed Murder on the Links, The Angel Next Door, Tartu e, Camelot and Peril in the Alps from North Coast Rep. Marty has a B.A. from Creighton University, Omaha, NE. Scenic designed more than 250 productions at North Coast Rep. Resident Designer at Coronado Playhouse 1981-84 and Fiesta Dinner Theater 1984-87. Co-owner Props and Drops 1987-91, Designing for Union Plaza, Hacienda and Sahara Hotels and Casinos, Las Vegas; Harrah’s, South Lake Tahoe and Claridge Hotel, Atlantic City; Drury Lane Theater, Chicago.
ALINA BOKOVIKOVA (Costume Design) is thrilled make her debut at the Playhouse. Her artistically diverse portfolio includes around two hundred professional and educational projects at Presidio Theatre, TheatreWorks Silicon Valley, California Shakespeare Theater, The Old Globe Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse, San Francisco Opera, and more. School for Lies won the Craig Noel Award. Her work was exhibited in Moscow at Costume Design at the Turn of the Century; the San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles hosted her costumes for La Bohème; she was featured in American Theatre Magazine; and her recent design for the opera Harvey Milk earned her a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition for Outstanding and Invaluable Service to the Community, signed by Nancy Pelosi. She teaches at the Academy of Art University, San Francisco and at UC San Diego.
MATTHEW NOVOTNY (Lighting Design) is pleased to be designing another show for Laguna Playhouse. This is his 13th show at Laguna, having previously designed A Gentleman’s Guide.., Peril in the Alps and Remarkable Mr. Holmes, among others. Matthew is currently the Lighting Designer in Residence at North Coast Rep, and his work can be seen at a wide variety of theatres across San Diego. Matthew teaches Introduction to Theatre Design at Cal State San Marcos, as well as also teaching at Palomar College, and San Diego State University. Matthew holds a B.A. in Technical Theatre from San Diego State and a master’s degree in Lighting Design from Boston University. Matthew is married to his beautiful wife Amanda, with five AMAZING children: Ragan, Harper, Heston, Maddex, and Harrison.
AARON RUMLEY (Sound Design) is excited to be making his return to Laguna Playhouse after working on Ain’t Misbehavin’ in 2024. He has worked on over 120 shows at North Coast Rep, over 50 as a stage manager, over 20 as a designer.
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MICHAEL WOGULIS (Properties Design) Michael is a scenic, projections, and props designer based in San Diego. Props design credits include: Birthday Candles (North Coast Rep), Little Women: The Musical (Moxie Theatre), Our Dear Dead Drug Lord (Moxie Theatre). Scenic design credits: The Prom (San Diego Musical Theatre), Gruesome Playground Injuries (Loud Fridge Theatre Group), Once on this Island (Oceanside Theatre Company), Miracle on 34th Street (New Village Arts), The Thanksgiving Play (New Village Arts), Clyde’s (Moxie Theatre), The Glass Menagerie (Diversionary Theatre). Projection design credits: The Mountaintop (New Village Arts), Once on this Island (Oceanside Theatre Company), La Havana Madrid (New Village Arts), Cleopatra (Moxie Theatre). Other credits: La Lucha (scenic artisan, WOW Festival/Optika Moderna), Here There Are Blueberries (assistant scenic resident, La Jolla Playhouse). Michael is a double alumnus of UC San Diego, having earned both a BA and an MFA in scenic design from the university. michaelwogulis.com
PETER HERMAN (Hair & Wigs Design) is honored to be part of the creative team for Beside Myself. He has designed wigs for past productions of AGentleman’s Guide,Peril in the Alps, The Remarkable Mister Holmes, Eleanor, A View from the Bridge, and more. Peter teaches wig and makeup design at San Diego State University. He is glad to be part of the creative team on this show.
SHANNON HUMISTON (Production Stage Manager) is excited to be making her Laguna Playhouse debut with Beside Myself. She is a Kansas City native who now calls San Diego home. Select credits include Merry Me, Head Over Heels, Eighty-Sixed (Diversionary Theatre), Stroll Thru Shushan (San Diego REP), The Garden (La Jolla Playhouse), Hairspray (Kansas City Starlight Theatre), King Lear (Saratoga Shakespeare Company), and Avenue Q (Nebraska Repertory Theatre). When she is not at the theatre, she can be found working with the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance as an entertainment manager for their many seasonal and special events. She would like to thank her parents, brother, her partner, and the Frentrops for all their support and always encouraging her to chase her dreams.
ADELE ADKINS (Managing Director) is thrilled to join Laguna Playhouse. Adele is an arts leader with over 25 years of experience in nonprofit theater management and programming. She most recently served as Managing Director of Bucks County Playhouse, where she expanded revenue, increased subscriber growth, and spearheaded key initiatives in equity, accessibility, and community engagement. She has booked performances across the full spectrum of venues—from intimate 100-seat theaters to 7,000-seat arenas—presenting everything from classical music and Broadway tours to major country music stars and a wide range of genres in between. Adele has also led the Clark State Performing Arts Center in Ohio and the Collins Center for the Arts at the University of Maine. Her early career includes leadership roles at the Collins Center for the Arts and the Maine Center for the Arts. A Juilliard-trained cellist, she brings a lifelong dedication to performance, education, and cultural leadership. Adele is a sought-after consultant for performing arts centers and theaters, known for her expertise in strategic planning and innovative revenue growth strategies.
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Golden Tickets:
A Theatrical Treat for kids at A Snow White Christmas!
Make your child’s visit to A Snow White Christmas truly unforgettable with a Golden Ticket—a special add-on for just $50 (limited to 10 per performance). Available exclusively to children ages 4–12,
Golden Ticket holders will:
★ Step onstage for a magical sing-along moment during the show ★
★ Receive a gift bag packed with exciting surprises ★
You’ll have the option to purchase a Golden Ticket after buying a child’s ticket online, or you can call the Box O ce at 949.497.2787 to reserve yours today.
Already have your tickets and want to add a Golden Ticket?
SCAN HERE to add one now:
Photos left to right: A Cinderella Christmas Lythgoe Panto at Laguna Playhouse. L.J. Benet and Darcy Rose Byrnes in Rapunzel and her Holiday Wish. Photos by Jason Niedle.
STAY IN THE KNOW
JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST
For more information about our upcoming shows, Youth Theatre classes and special events, special o ers, and season packages, please give us your email!
LAGUNAPLAYHOUSE.COM/EMAIL
FOLLOW US @LagunaPlayhouse on all channels
BECOME A DONOR Your Support Matters
Your gift will provide vital support for Laguna Playhouse’s theatrical productions, education, community engagement, and ticket engagement programs. Laguna Playhouse is a 501(c)3 non-profit theatre. Ticket sales only cover a fraction of our annual costs and we rely on the generous contributions of our donors for the remainder.
lagunaplayhouse.com/support
AT THE THEATRE
BOX OFFICE HOURS
The box o ce is open Mon-Sun from 11:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m.; on performance days, open 2 hours prior to show time until 15 minutes after curtain.
Please be sure to check the website for any updates to our new hours, or any holiday hours or closures.
GROUPS HAVE MORE FUN
Groups of 10 or more enjoy discounts on tickets. Group tickets can be purchased by calling 949-497-2787x1 or by sending us an email at groups@LagunaPlayhouse.com.
Or just add 10 or more tickets online and your order will automatically be updated!
WARNING
Flashing and/or strobing lights and nontoxic synthetic fog, smoke and haze may be used during this production.
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We at Laguna Playhouse acknowledge that we are on the unceded ancestral lands of the Tongva people. We recognize the enduring presence of the Tongva and are committed to showing respect to the past, present and future caretakers of this land.
LAGUNA PLAYHOUSE STAFF
David Ellenstein, Artistic Director
Adele
Adkins, Managing Director
MANAGEMENT
General Manager Denys Baker
Asst. General Manager/Company Manager Rachel Garlington
FINANCE
Controller Rae Metcalfe
Bookkeeper Karsyn VonAchen
PRODUCTION
Production Manager
Jordan Muller
Technical Director Paul Rossi
Lighting Supervisor
Wardrobe Supervisor
Jeremy Plant
Stacey Nezda
Production Management Assistant Devon Rieckhof
FACILITIES OPERATIONS
Facilities and IT Operations Manager ........ David Bryant
Facilities Maintenance Technician Brandon Sandoval
FRONT OF HOUSE
Artistic & Audience Services Manager Wally Ziegler
House Manager
Assistant House Manager
Parking Supervisor
TICKETING
Patron Services Manager Morgan Leal
Ticketing Services Lead
Nikki Johnson
Ticketing Services Representatives Marlon Gomez-Smith, Olivia Mancillas
EDUCATION
Education and Outreach Coordinator Nakisa Aschtiani
Teaching Artists Meghan Andrews, Jack Clark, Sabrina Harper, Hillary Pearson, Corinne Provost, Luzma Ortiz, Toni Redman, Kelsey Redmond, Ella Wyatt, Evan Troutt
CONSULTANTS
Legal Services Stephen Berry
Press Consultant David Elzer, Demand PR IT Services Method Technologies
Graphic Designer Teresa Meza
Website Consultant.
Andrew Lombardi
Financial Services Fohrman and Fohrman Inc.
Medical Provider Caduceus Medical Group, Dr. Gregg deNicola
Clara Bush
Jane Sabarre
Curtis Pebley
Bartender Leanne Nolan
ADVANCEMENT
Director of Advancement
Development Coordinator
Erin Simon
Nicole Armour
Marketing Manager ................... Gracie Fleischman
Ticketing Systems & Data Analytics Manager
Jason Hughes
Marketing Coordinator Alexus J. Lombera
PRODUCTION CREW
Audio Engineer
Conner Altwein
Production Assistant Devon Rieckhof
Backstage Crew Ann Nopper
Wig Maintenance ............................. Kat Scott
The actors and stage managers employed in this production are members of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. Please check house boards for any program changes.
The Director and Choreographer are members of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society, a national theatrical labor union.
The designers are represented by United Scenic Artists Local USA 829, IATSE
Laguna Playhouse is a member of the League of Resident Theatres.
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UPCOMING DATES:
November 4, 2025
January 27, 2026
April 21, 2026
June 23, 2026
With the funniest lineup this side of the canyon, don’t miss Comedy Night at the Playhouse! Hosted by Mark Christopher Lawrence, this evening of stand-up is sure to get you laughing. Grab our drink specials and some free small bites in our lobby, and join us for this laugh out loud event!
For mature audiences.
Line-up for: NOVEMBER 4TH, 2025
Mark Christopher Lawrence, Host Emmy-nominated and award-winning, Mark Christopher Lawrence serves up smart, clean comedy with heart— guaranteed to leave audiences laughing and uplifted!
Rocky Osborn, Headliner Lisa Gilbert, Feature Natasha Collier, Opener
WE SALUTE OUR LIFETIME SUPPORTERS
Heartfelt thanks from your Laguna Playhouse
DISTINGUISHED BENEFACTORS
Lisa Hale
Suzanne and James Mellor
The Moulton Company
Laguna Beach Tourism Marketing District
BENEFACTORS CIRCLE
Jon Cobain^ & Judy Flynn
Barbara Steele Williams Foundation
Harry & Grace Steele Foundation
Maggie R. Murdy Trust
The Miki F. Young Charitable Trust
Laguna Playhouse gratefully acknowledges our many donors within the last year, August 15, 2025–October 15, 2026 included here at Advocates and above.
Center Stage Circle ($25,000+)
Lori and Harley Bassman
Heather Chalmers
Laguna Beach Business Improvement District
Judy Flynn
Jim and Karen Frank
Judi Gorski
Lisa and James Hale
Otis and Joann Healy
Hans and Valerie Imhof
Producer’s Circle ($15,000-$24,999)
Cody and Deborah Engle
Jay Herron and Dana Klein
Gary and Betsy Jenkins
Greg and Barbara MacGillivray
Jared and Kate Mathis
Lou and Laura Rohl
The Daniel & Francine Scinto Foundation
The Shubert Foundation
Walker Family Charitable Remainder Trust
Jeffrey and Caron Winston
The Miki F. Young Charitable Trust
Hans & Valerie Imhof
Sheila Sale
Jennifer Yelland
Haskell & White, LLP
Playhouse Women 15 | Beside Myself
Director’s Circle ($10,000 - $14,999)
Torin and Carol Cunningham
The Roberta Freeman Cox Charitable Foundation
Milli Fredricks
Thomas and Karen Mauro
Llona Martin
Patron’s Circle ($5,000 - $9,999)
Jill Adams
Assistance League of Laguna Beach
Carolyn and Tom Bent
Trudi Bonnet
Carolyn Brown
Don Crevier & Kim Jalbert
Patty Georges
Margaret Gates
Pramila Gupta
Joe and Jane Hanauer
Gerald and Jackie Kehle
Timothy Kippen and Ileana Frometa Grillo
Circle of Stars ($3,000 - $4,999)
Susan Wunderlich
Richard and Adrienne Thomas
Laguna Beach Festival of Arts Foundation
Glenn Gray and Kathryn Burton Gray
Daniel Haspert and Gerard Curtin
Bradford Freer
Artist’s Circle ($1,000 - $2,999)
Allen Stewart Foundation
Justin Myers
John Benecke and Lee Marino
Jim & Judy Bergman
Ron & Nancy Cambron
Paul & Donna Eckles
Pauliana Hall
Mark Hilbert
Morris & Mae Ho
Ken & Janis Kaplan
Carole & Edward Kim
Robert Krause
John & Lisa Mansour Family Fund
Richard & Lauren Packard
Michelle Reinglass
Kevin & Irene Rowe
Anonymous
Harvey & Lisa Triebwasser
Elie Weaver
Krissie & Tom Hylton
Susie Jaqua
Brent & Diane Liljestrom
Brien Amspoker & Ellen Breitman
Paul & Lucinda Prewitt
Sheila Sale
Barbara Steele Williams Endowment
South Coast Plaza
John and Gail Ueberroth
Ueberroth Family Foundation
US Bank
Sandra and Ray Wirta
Peter and Diane Lannon
Linda Leisner
Kitty and Rick Malcolm
Heidi Miller
Mike and Linda Mussallem
Penny Pralle
Sharon and Jonathan Rose
Richard Jr. & Maureen Schweickert
Claudia Silverman
Donald and Connie Sperling
Steve Tollefsrud
Jill Yaoz
Toni Tartamella
Richard and Laurie Sandfer
Maura Doyle
Robert and Pat Mclaughlin
Diane Silber
Caplin Foundation
Sindi Schwartz
Doug & Karen Wilson
Terry McDonald & Terri Bebert
Alexander Alpert & Carol Saltzman
The Covington
Lois Jacobs
Jim & Nora Cunningham
Anita Chaitin
Olga Megdal/Fairview Warner LLC
Therese DeGroot
James & Shirley Johnson
Jorgensen Family Charitable Gift Fund
William Kasper & Leslie Anne Mogul
Richard & Monica Thompson
Crestavilla Community
Valerie Cantwell
Mikey Lares
Oakley Van Slyke
Linda Eide
Diane Kang
Frank & Arlene O’Donnell
Ronald & June Stein
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Artist’s Circle continued
Virginia Templeton
Robert and Mary Ward
Duncan & Ellen Prince
Ryan & Allison Smith
David Ellenstein & Denise Young
Katrina Foley
Joan Riach-Gayner
Lee Kucera
Masson Family Foundation
Advocate’s Circle ($500-$999)
Andy Barnicle
Terry & Diana Beeman
Gary & Nancy Beverage
Bayard Bosserman
Carole Britton
Henry & Eileen Cohen
Dr. Dvora Cyrlak & Neil Spingarn
Cynthia DeBaun
Paul Driskell
Jed Engel
Lynn April Hartline
J. Stanley & Mary W. Johnson Family Foundation
Toni Kellenberg
Kathleen Koch
Jarrett & Tommye Kuske
Bill & Julie Long
Ramon Martinez
Jenifer Massey
Lilia Mead
Diane Mondini
Rey O’Day
Eleanor Palk
Amy Peninger & Jim Pisa
Cherri Penne-Myers
Russell & Jane Robinett
Mary Roosevelt
Liz Rubel
Ryan Smith
Neil Spingarn
James Thomas
Linda Thomas
Dennis Tyler
Charles & Kathy Rosenberger
Michael Silverberg
Jean Vivrette
Ray Zadjmool
Brian and Christy Rayburn
Lucetta J. Kallis
Dennis & Joanne Keith
Patricia Romero
Jerald & Patricia Waldman
Jeff & Holly Hahn
Belle Tuckerman
Charles Hunter
Madeleine Peterson
Greg Herder
Jamie Marr
Kate Roth
Joan Moe
David M Gray
Neal Warren
Krista Clark
Gene & Johanna Felder
Boyd & Carol Plowman
Wendi Chen
Sharon Domenico
Wendy & David Jones
Nelson Mamey
Patrick & Tiare Meegan
Jason Van Der Steen
Marlene Bridges
Eva Evans
Brent & Inmaculada Strombom
Mike & Michelle Polini
Joseph Davis
Robert & Linda Knoth
Merv & Sharon Simchowitz
John & Bonnie Livingston
Julie Perlin Lee
Barbara Biniasz-Gladden
Johni Pittenger
James Dolan
Robert Zaugg
Terry Hanna
Chiafange Ramirez
Frank O’Donnell
Upcoming Offerings
Laguna Playhouse’s Youth Conservatory (ages 8-19) is unique among youth theater programs in the area. In addition to participating in Conservatory classes which build a strong foundation, students may also participate in additional workshops at no extra cost.
For younger students, the Junior Conservatory (ages 4-8) is the perfect introduction to acting.
Youth Theatre Conservatory
For more information, or to make an audition appointment, please email Education@lagunaplayhouse.com
New Student Auditions: December 13, 2025 (Winter) / March 6, 2026 (Spring)
•Winter Session: January 6–March 3, 2026.
•Spring Session: March 17–May 26th, 2026
THE JESSICA HERRON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Laguna Playhouse gratefully acknowledges the generosity of Dana Klein and Jay Herron who established the Jessica Herron Memorial Scholarship Fund in loving memory of their daughter, a former student of the Laguna Playhouse Youth Theatre.
Scholarships also available for our Winter and Spring sessions. Applications open soon. For more information, please email EDUCATION@LAGUNAPLAYHOUSE.COM
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical, Spring 2023.
| Laguna Playhouse
Meet Our New MANAGING DIRECTOR
ADELE ADKINS
Laguna Playhouse is delighted to welcome Adele Adkins as our new Managing Director!
A nationally recognized arts leader and creative strategist, Adele brings over 25 years of experience in driving organizational growth, building high-performing teams, and delivering exceptional results in fundraising, marketing, programming, and community engagement. Her career reflects a deep commitment to the transformative power of the arts and a passion for fostering inclusive, vibrant cultural communities.
Adele joins us from Bucks County Playhouse in New Hope, Pennsylvania—a ectionately known as “America’s Most Famous Summer Theater”—where she served as Managing Director. During her tenure, she led the organization through a period of remarkable growth, expanding its annual budget from $8.6 million to $10.6 million while significantly reducing its deficit. Her strategic leadership helped transition the Playhouse from a private operating foundation to a public charity, unlocking new funding opportunities and long-term sustainability. She also co-led a successful capital initiative to acquire a nearby inn for actor housing, generating substantial savings and enhancing artist support.
Adele’s love for the performing arts runs deep—she grew up backstage on Broadway, where her grandmother was a performer. While others were drawn to the spotlight, Adele was captivated by what happened behind the scenes. “You never found me interested in being on the stage,” she recalls. “I was at the fly rail, looking at how they did that, or watching the stage manager call the show.” That early curiosity laid the foundation for a career built on thoughtful leadership and behind-the-scenes excellence.
“We are thrilled to welcome Adele to The Laguna Playhouse,” said Lisa Hale, Chair of the Board. “She is a mission-driven leader with a demonstrated ability to balance artistic vision with business acumen. Her experience, values, and collaborative spirit make her the ideal partner to lead this next chapter in our storied history.”
Artistic Director David Ellenstein echoed the excitement: “Adele’s vast experience, savvy understanding of the nonprofit arts world, and her warm personality will be a great fit for our Laguna Beach community. I am looking forward to our creating great theatre together.”
Adele’s previous leadership roles include Executive Director of the Clark State Performing Arts Center in Ohio and Associate Director of the Collins Center for the Arts at the University of Maine, where she oversaw multimillion-dollar renovations, developed nationally recognized programming, and led successful capital and endowment campaigns. Throughout her career, she has championed diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA), embedding these values into policy, programming, and partnerships.
A trained cellist with a performance diploma from Juilliard School, Adele brings both administrative excellence and a deep appreciation for the performing arts. She is also a seasoned public speaker and advocate, having shared insights on strategic planning, equity in the arts, and arts leadership at national conferences and universities.
“I am incredibly honored to join The Laguna Playhouse,” Adele shared. “This is a theater with a remarkable artistic legacy and a deep connection to its local community. I am excited to collaborate with the board, sta , artists, and audience to build on its strengths and create new opportunities for impact, innovation, and inclusion.”
Joining Adele in Laguna Beach are her husband David, their son Jamie, and beloved English Cream Golden Retriever, Bexley.
Please join us in warmly welcoming Adele Adkins to the Laguna Playhouse family!
Celebrating
Our Leading Ladies
Robin Woods Serving for 40 years
Krista Clark Serving for 10 years
Cherri Penne-Myers Serving for 7 years
Cheers to Robin Woods, Krista Clark, and Cherri Penne-Myers—longtime Playhouse Women whose creativity, generosity, and passion for the arts have made a lasting impact.
Your leadership keeps our curtain rising.
22 | Beside Myself
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