EJ Thomas Hall - Elf

EJ THOMAS HALL THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON ■ 2025-2026 SEASON

NOVEMBER 11-12, 2025

Make Yourself at

Home

Find out how you can make Ohio Living Find Findout out how how you can make Ohio Ohio Living Living Rockynol your home today: Rockynol Rockynol your your home today: • Call 330.867.2150, •• Call Call330.867.2150, 330.867.2150, • Email mlpoor@ohioliving.org, or •• Email Email mlpoor@ohioliving.org, mlpoor@ohioliving.org, or or • Scan the code •• Scan Scan the the code code

INDEPENDENT INDEPENDENT INDEPENDENT LIVING LIVING LIVING

ASSISTED ASSISTED ASSISTED LIVING LIVING LIVING

MEMORY MEMORY CARE CARE

SHORT-TERM SHORT-TERM SHORT-TERM REHABILITATION REHABILITATION REHABILITATION

LONG-TERM LONG-TERM LONG-TERM NURSING CARE NURSING NURSINGCARE CARE

1150 West Market Street | Akron, Ohio 44313 | ohioliving.org 1150 1150West WestMarket Market Street Street | Akron, Ohio Ohio 44313 44313 | | ohioliving.org ohioliving.org

The Power of a Pickup, Without Looking Like One

SWITCH UP

to the INFINITI QX80 With 450hp Standard

ejthomashall.com THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON EJ THOMAS HALL 2025-2026 Season 4

Dear Friends of E.J. Thomas Hall, As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better time to gather and celebrate the magic of live performance. The lights are twinkling, the air is filled with excitement, and we’re thrilled to welcome you back to E.J. Thomas Hall for another remarkable season of entertainment. There’s something truly special about sharing the joy of a live show—the energy of the performers on stage, the connection among audience members, and the sense of community that fills the theatre.

As always, your support is what keeps this incredible tradition alive. The Hall shines because of generous patrons and donors like you. With your help, we can continue to bring outstanding performances to Akron while maintaining and improving this beautiful space for generations to come. Please consider supporting us by visiting the E.J. Thomas Hall giving page—your contribution truly makes a difference.

This season promises to be one of our most memorable yet! Broadway in Akron returns alongside Broadway-adjacent gems, including Good Witch/Bad Witch: Diva Showstoppers—a spellbinding concert featuring Wicked’s own Alli Mauzey, Broadway’s unforgettable Glinda, and Dee Roscioli, the most prolific Elphaba in the show’s history.

We’re also thrilled to present Mama, I’m A Big Girl Now!, where Broadway’s beloved leading ladies—Tony Nominee Kerry Butler, Tony Nominee Laura Bell Bundy, and Tony Winner Marissa Jaret Winokur—reunite for a spectacular night of music, laughter, and heartfelt memories. From Broadway Babies to Broadway Mamas, this dynamic trio proves that together, they shine even brighter. Don’t miss your chance to experience a night filled with unforgettable music and stories—the girls’ night out you’ve been waiting for!

There truly is something for everyone this season at E.J. Thomas Hall, and we are so excited to share it with you. Thank you for being part of our story—your presence and your support are what make the Hall shine.

Margo Ohlson Executive Director, E.J. Thomas Hall

Say YES to less hassle.

Say YES to less hassle.

Say YES to more access.

Say YES to more access.

Say YES to the ultimate E.J. experience.

Say YES to the ultimate E.J. experience.

Join the Flying Balcony Club with a $1,500 gift and enjoy exclusive benefits at E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall — reserved parking, concierge service and more.

THREE WAYS TO JOIN: ONLINE at uakron.edu/joinFBC SCAN the QR code below CONTACT: Kasey Willener, Director of Development, 330-972-7520

The University of Akron is an Equal Education and Employment Institution © 2025 by The University of Akron – uakron.edu/eeo

ejthomashall.com THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

GENERAL INFORMATION Phone Numbers you should know: Ticket Office..........................330-253-2488 General Information...........330-972-7595 Website............................ejthomashall.com Ticket Office

Guest Services

Advance tickets are available at the E.J. Thomas Hall Ticket Office Monday through Friday 10 am-4 pm. On days of shows, the Box Office is open two hours prior to show times and is located in the parking deck.

Assistive Listening System With the help of generous donors, E.J. has installed new sound and lighting systems to enhance the overall experience for both performers and audiences. Our new Williams Assisted Listening system allows live audio streaming to personal hearing devices over Wi-Fi; a fantastic addition that will enable a more immersive and accessible experience for attendees. To access connect to WaveCAST App, open the app, select the “Discover by IP” option and enter “10.48.30.12” and you are connected.

Refunds – Please check your tickets carefully, as all sales are final. Exchanges are not permitted. Refunds are given if an event is canceled and are refunded to the original purchaser at the point of purchase.

Beware of Ticket Scalpers E.J. Thomas Hall is not responsible for tickets purchased through unauthorized third parties.

2025-2026 Season

EJ THOMAS HALL

Tickets to E.J. Thomas Hall events may not be resold at a premium.

6

Tickets ordered within nine (9) days of the performance will be held at Will Call. A photo ID is required to pick up Will Call tickets.

Gift Certificates are available and are valid for up to one year from the date of purchase.

Cancellations, postponed events, or inclement weather – On rare occasions severe weather may cause E.J. Thomas Hall to cancel or postpone an event. Event cancellation information is available by calling The University of Akron emergency information number at 330-972-SNOW (7669.) You may also visit our website, Facebook page, or Twitter for the most up-to-date information.

Accessible Seating E.J. Thomas Hall has seating for patrons in wheelchairs and special needs at Entry 10 in the Orchestra and Entry 14 on the Grand Tier level. Patrons needing assistance to their seat may stop at the Information Counter in McCormick Lobby.

An usher will assist you with wheelchair transportation to your seating area. Requests should be made when ordering tickets by calling the Ticket Office at 330253-2488.

Handicap Parking There are a limited number of handicap parking spaces available in the E.J. Thomas Hall parking deck. Additional spaces are located in Lots 26 and 27, directly across from the Hill Street entrance. Show a valid H/C permit and traffic police will direct you to the nearest spot.

Parking Event parking fees vary based on production contracts and lot availability may fluctuate.

E.J. THOMAS ONLINE ejthomashall.com facebook.com/EJThomasHall • instagram.com/e.j.thomashall

2025-2026 Season

Accessible Restrooms Accessible restrooms are located at the bottom of both ramps on either side of the building.

Family Events Some events at E.J. Thomas Hall are specifically designed for children and families, and we encourage you to enjoy these events. For performances not suitable for young children, parents are asked to use discretion.

Intermission Intermissions are 20 minutes in length.

Lobby lights will flash as your signal to return to your seat for the start of the performance.

In general: n Read the program notes.

n Aisles must be kept free of any obstructions for safety. n For your enjoyment, food and beverages purchased at E.J. Thomas Hall are permitted inside the theatre for select shows. n In the event of an emergency, ushers and other members of the staff will advise audience members as to the appropriate procedures to exit the theater as quickly and safely as possible.

Patrons needing special assistance should contact the ushers.

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

For a Wonderful Evening …

Live performance is truly magical; art created from the energy flowing between people on both sides of the curtain. When you attend a show, you are part of the experience. There is no rewind or instant replay at a live event.

n Unless instructed to do so by the performers, do not talk, hum, sing along or beat time.

EJ THOMAS HALL

Seating Latecomers Please note the curtain time printed on your tickets as performances begin promptly. Latecomers will be seated at a suitable pause in the program. This includes patrons who leave the auditorium before or during a selection.

Theater Policies n Cameras or any other recording devices are not permitted. Please silence all electronic devices as a courtesy to both other audience members and the performers.

ejthomashall.com 7

THESE YEAR S

C HAN GE

E V E RY T H I N G

Set the stage for a lifetime of learning. From age 2 through Grade 8, children grow faster—intellectually, emotionally and socially—than at any other time in life.

At Old Trail School, we make those years count. With age-appropriate challenge, meaningful relationships and inspired learning, our students build the confidence and curiosity to thrive—on any stage.

Old Trail School 2315 Ira Road Bath, OH 44210 330.666.1118 Cuyahoga Valley’s Preschool to Grade 8 School

OldTrail.org

present

Book by

Music by

Lyrics by

Based on the New Line Cinema film written by David Berrenbaum Starring

Felicia Martis Jeff Brooks Ryan Duck Camden Kwok Katelyn Lauria Darius J. Manuel With

Connor Barton Calista Case Derek Donato Adam Furgal Kabir Gandhi Tanner Gleeson Patrick Johnson Vanessa Mitchell Clark Anton Rulon Emma Sucato Mikayla Thrasher Alysia Varstardis Annie Wogisch Keila Sue Wong Scenic & Costume Design Adapted from the Original by

Lighting Design

Sound Design

Video Design

Gareth Owen

Ian William Galloway & Mesmer Studios

Orchestrations

Dance Arrangements

Vocal Arrangements

US Music Supverisor

Hair & Wig Design

Casting

Music Coordinator

Production Consultant

Doug Besterman

David Chase

Sam Cox for Samuel James Wigs Ltd

ARC Jarrett Reiche

Music Director

Jess Levine

Production Manager

Crossroads Live North America

Gregg Damanti

Tour Booking Direction

Stuart Tucker

Company Manager

Kathy Crawford-Hawkins

General Manager

Executive Producer

Andrew Terlizzi

Tour Marketing & Press

Bond Theatrical

Nate Patten

Talitha Fehr

Production Stage Manager

Charie Yokom Tour Management

Phil Reno

Social Media

Allied Global Marketing

Direction Recreated by

Kori Prior

Think Tank Choreography Recreated by

Dave Solomon

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

Patrick Woodruffe

Tim Goodchild

EJ THOMAS HALL

Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin Matthew Sklar Chad Beguelin Jack Ducat Yara Martin Andrew Hendrick

2025-2026 Season

Temple Live Entertainment North America and Crossroads Live North America

Richard J. Hinds

Alan Williams Choreography by

Liam Steel Directed by

Philip Wm. McKinley Originally Produced by Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures in association with Unique Features

Elf The Musical is produced by special arrangement with MUSIC THEATRE INTERNATIONAL, New York, NY. mtishows.com 2

ejthomashall.com

Musical Supervisor, Additonal Arrangements & Orchestrations

9

ejthomashall.com

Santa Claus.....................................................................................................ANDREW HENDRICK Mrs. Claus ........................................................................................................ ALYSIA VASTARDIS Buddy ............................................................................................................................JACK DUCAT Charlie ......................................................................................................................KABIR GANDHI Tiara ...........................................................................................................................CALISTA CASE Hot Dog Vendor ................................................................................................DARIUS J. MANUEL Walter Hobbs............................................................................................................... JEFF BROOKS Sam ..................................................................................................................... KEILA SUE WONG Matthews ............................................................................................................ TANNER GLEESON Chadwick .................................................................................................................KABIR GANDHI Emily Hobbs ..............................................................................................................YARA MARTIN Michael Hobbs .............................................................................. RYAN DUCK, CAMDEN KWOK Deb ...................................................................................................................... KATELYN LAURIA Saleswoman ..................................................................................................... ALYSIA VASTARDIS Store Manager ...................................................................................................DARIUS J. MANUEL Jovie ....................................................................................................................... FELICIA MARTIS Fake Santa ................................................................................................................ ADAM FURGAL Little Boy ...................................................................................... RYAN DUCK, CAMDEN KWOK Policemen............................................................................KABIR GANDHI, TANNER GLEESON Mr. Greenway ................................................................................................ANDREW HENDRICK Charlotte Dennon ..........................................................................................MIKAYLA THRASHER Ensemble ............. CONNOR BARTON, CALISTA CASE, DERICK DONATO, ADAM FURGAL, KABIR GANDHI, TANNER GLEESON, PATRICK JOHNSON, VANESSA MITCHELL, EMMA SUCATO, MIKAYLA THRASHER, ALYSIA VARSTARDIS, KEILA SUE WONG UNDERSTUDIES Understudies are in alphabetical order and never substitute for the listed performers unless a specific announcement is made at the time of the appearance.

2025-2026 Season

EJ THOMAS HALL

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

CAST

(in order of appearance)

10

For Santa/Mr. Greenway—CONNOR BARTON, DARIUS J. MANUEL; for Buddy—TANNER GLEESON, PATRICK JOHNSON; for Store Manager/Hot Dog Vendor—KABIR GANDHI, PATRICK JOHNSON; for Walter—ADAM FURGAL, ANDREW HENDRICK; for Emily—KATELYN LAURIA, MIKAYLA THRASHER; for Deb—VANESSA MITCHELL, EMMA SUCATO; for Jovie—CALISTA CASE, ALYSIA VASTARDIS. SWINGS CLARK ANTON RULON, ANNIE WOGISCH Dance Captain—ANNIE WOGISCH Assistant Dance Captain—CLARK ANTON RULON

The use of any recording device, either audio or video, and the taking of photographs, either with or without flash, is strictly prohibited. Please turn off all electronic devices such as cellular phones, beepers and watches 3

2025-2026 Season

CAST

FELICIA MARTIS

JEFF BROOKS

YARA MARTIN

CAMDEN KWOK

ANDREW HENDRICK

KATELYN LAURIA

DARIUS J. MANUEL

CONNOR BARTON

CALISTA CASE

DERICK DONATO

ADAM FURGAL

KABIR GANDHI

TANNER GLEESON

PATRICK JOHNSON

VANESSA MITCHELL

CLARK ANTON RULON

EMMA SUCATO

ALYSIA VARSTARDIS

ANNIE WOGISCH

KEILA SUE WONG 4

ejthomashall.com

MIKAYLA THRASHER

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

RYAN DUCK

EJ THOMAS HALL

JACK DUCAT

11

12

2025-2026 Season

EJ THOMAS HALL THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

ejthomashall.com

THERE WILL BE ONE 15-MINUTE INTERMISSION. PERFORMANCE TIME IS APPROXIMATELY 2 HOURS & 30 MINUTES. MUSICIANS Conductor—CHARLIE YOKOM Assistant Conductor/Keyboards—CALEB MIDDLETON Trumpet—TODD DOUGLAS ANDERSON Saxophone—MEGAN TRACH Trombone—THOMAS DAVID WOYTKO Bass—SARAH KLEIN Drums/Percussion—AVION WRIGHT Music Coordinator—TALITHA FEHR Music Technology—PHIJ ADAMS

ejthomashall.com

5

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

ACT II Entr’acte ......................................................................................................................... The Orchestra “Nobody Cares About Santa” ................................ Fake Santas, Store Manager, Waitress and Buddy “Never Fall in Love” .....................................................................................................................Jovie “There Is a Santa Claus” ........................................................................................ Michael and Emily “The Story of Buddy the Elf” ........................................................................ Buddy, Michael, Walter, Mr. Greenway, Emily, Deb and Company “Nobody Cares About Santa” (Reprise) ...................................................................................... Santa “A Christmas Song” (Reprise) ...........................Jovie, Buddy, Emily, Michael, Walter and Company Finale.............................................................................................................................. Full Company

EJ THOMAS HALL

ACT I Overture ......................................................................................................................... The Orchestra “Happy All the Time” .............................................................................. Santa, Buddy and Company “World’s Greatest Dad” ............................................................................................................. Buddy “In the Way”..................................................................... Deb, Walter, Emily, Michael and Company “Sparklejollytwinklejingley” .......................................... Buddy, Jovie, Store Manager and Company “I’ll Believe in You” .............................................................................................. Michael and Emily “In the Way” (Reprise) .............................................................................................. Emily and Walter “Just Like Him” ..........................................................................................Buddy, Deb and Company “A Christmas Song” ..................................................................................Buddy, Jovie and Company “World’s Greatest Dad” (Reprise)....................................................................... Buddy and Company

2025-2026 Season

MUSICAL NUMBERS

13

ejthomashall.com THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON EJ THOMAS HALL 2025-2026 Season 14

WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST JACK DUCAT (Buddy) is beyond excited to be making his national tour debut! Select regional: Texas Shakespeare Festival, Eclipse Theatre, San Antonio Broadway Theatre and Short North Stage.

Jack would like to thank his family, Grey Henson and HCKR. B.F.A. Carnegie Mellon University.

FELICIA MARTIS (Jovie) is thrilled to be spreading Christmas cheer this holiday season! National tours: Ain’t Too Proud. Regional: Hairspray (Dynamite), Escape to Margaritaville (Rachel), Beautiful (Little Eva). Thank you to her family, friends and her amazing agent at FSE! feliciamartis.com. @fmartis.

JEFF BROOKS (Walter Hobbs). National tours: Dear Evan Hansen (Larry), Chicago (Billy Flynn), A Bronx Tale (Sonny), Fiddler on the Roof, The Sound of Music, Beauty and the Beast (Gaston), Oklahoma!, Bullets Over Broadway (Cheech). Guest star on Netlix’s “The Watcher.” “Thanks to ATB and my family, especially Lauren.”

YARA MARTIN (Emily Hobbs). Regional: Sally Bowles in Cabaret, Natalie in All Shook Up, Heathers, Carrie, Grease, The Buddy Holly Story. TV: “Found,” “Murdaugh Murders.” Yara studied at Circle in the Square Theatre School.

“Thanks to my husband and my dog. Gleðileg jól!” @yaramartinofficial.

RYAN DUCK (Michael Hobbs/Little Boy) is thrilled to make his Broadway tour debut! Ten regional credits, most recently Anything Goes (Billy Crocker). Thanks to the Elf team, Arc Casting, Landrum Arts, Antonia, Taylor, Gabe, NTPA, Mommy, Daddy, Mackenzie, family and friends!

IG: @ryanduck.official.

CAMDEN KWOK (Michael Hobbs/Little Boy).

NYC native, age 9, excited for his second Broadway national tour! Previous stage roles include Peter Pan (Michael Darling) and film/TV appearances in “Good Sex,” “Only Murders…” and more. Grateful to Maxed Management, family and friends! IG: @camdenkwok.

ANDREW HENDRICK (Santa Claus/Mr. Greenway). Credits: Come From Away, Fiddler on the Roof, Kinky Boots, Bullets Over Broadway, Jekyll & Hyde. Andrew is a co-producer of the hit musical Be More Chill (Broadway and West End). “For mom, my biggest fan.” Insta: @andrewbhendrick.

KATELYN LAURIA (Deb) is thrilled to make her national tour debut. Favorite stage credits include Come From Away (Bonnie), Frozen (Olaf u/s), Escape to Margaritaville (Tammy), Mamma Mia! (Rosie) and Sister Act (Sister Mary Patrick).

She thanks her family and friends for their support. @klauria15.

DARIUS J. MANUEL (Store Manager/Hot Dog Vendor). [he/they]. Revolution-driven creative.

National tours: Hadestown, Tina The Musical, 6

Elf (2016). Regional favorites: Sister Act (Curtis), S4NW (Man 1), Memphis (Gator), Tarzan (Terk).

Remy Award and NSAL Award-winner in Drama.

B.F.A. musical theater (UArts). Thanks to HKA. grow. @legallydarius.

CALISTA CASE (Ensemble) is a Kentucky-born actor and recent graduate of NYU Tisch. Credits: Laurey in Oklahoma! (Playhouse Stage), Meg in Damn Yankees, Judy in Balm in Gilead (NYU).

Endless thanks to Casting By Arc, Gregory Osborne and her incredible support system.

CONNOR BARTON (Ensemble) [he/they].

National tour debut! Regional highlights: A Chorus Line (TBTS), Footloose (Engeman), Tootsie (NSMT) and Tuacahn. B.F.A., Nazareth University.

Major thanks to Ricky, Take 3 Talent and ARC. Endless love to Mom, Dad, Claire, Chloe and KARR. @connor.barton.

DERICK DONATO (Ensemble). National tour debut! Favorite credits include On Your Feet! (Male Swing) and The Little Mermaid (Prince Eric). B.F.A., Elon University. Many thanks to the creative team, producers, ARC Casting and his team at FSE. Endless love to his family and friends! @derickgdonato.

ADAM FURGAL (Ensemble) is thrilled to be making his national tour debut! B.F.A. MT from Montclair State University. Endless thanks to his family, friends and mentors for their support. @adamfurgal.

KABIR GANDHI (Ensemble) is excited to spread some holiday cheer! National tour: Mean Girls (Kevin G). Select regional: Rock of Ages (Franz, MTW), The Little Mermaid (Chef Louis, Sierra Rep).

Endlessly grateful for Pantera/Murphy the Agency, IUMT, Mom, Dad and Juju! @kabir.gandhi.

PATRICK JOHNSON (Ensemble) is ecstatic to be making his national tour debut! A recent graduate of Chicago College of Performing Arts, Patrick is proud to call Chicago home. Most recently, Prince Eric in The Little Mermaid at Drury Lane. XOXO to all! @patrickj.johnson.

VANESSA MITCHELL (Ensemble). Tours: We Will Rock You, 42nd Street, Monty Python’s Spamalot. Regional theater: The Gateway Playhouse, Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, Ogunquit Playhouse. Film: Martin Scorsese’s The Irishman, Hallmark’s A Winter Getaway. Proud AMDA NY alum! IG: @vanessamitchell_7.

CLARK ANTON RULON (Swing).National tour debut! Regional: The Rev, The Little Theatre on the Square. Cruises: Hairspray, Grease (Royal Caribbean). Endless love to his incredible parents and Sophie for being his biggest supporters. Proud IAMT alum. Enjoy the show!

EMMA SUCATO (Ensemble) is overjoyed to make her national tour debut! Syracuse University

alum. Regional: Syracuse Stage, Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival and Glimmerglass Festival.

Endless thanks to her mentors, ARC and the Elf team. All her love to family and friends. Happy holidays! @emmasucato.

TANNER GLEESON (Ensemble) is ecstatic to be making his national tour debut! Recent credits: Footloose at The Engeman (Ren), Saturday Night Fever at Timberlake Playhouse (Tony) and Frozen aboard Disney Cruise Line (Hans). He thanks everyone for their unwavering support everyday! @tannergleeson. tannergleesonactor.com.

ALYSIA VASTARDIS (Ensemble) is excited to spread cheer for the third time after doing Elf national tour 2024 and Ogunquit Playhouse!

Recent credits: High Society (Ogunquit), Barbara in Beetlejuice (NCL) and NSMT. B.F.A. MT PPU. Thank you to ARC, MTA, her family, friends and Matt!

KEILA SUE WONG (Ensemble). National tour debut! Credits include Rita in White Christmas, Ethel in 42nd Street (The Gateway) and the best summer ever at the Arrow Rock Lyceum. TU B.F.A. MT. <3 to her family and friends—おかげさまで. @keilalaalaaa.

BOB MARTIN (Book) works as a writer, performer and producer in theater, television and film internationally. He is co-creator of the beloved musicals

PHILIP WM. MCKINLEY (Director). New York: Elf The Musical; The Boy From Oz with Hugh Jackman; Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark; The Most Happy Fella (NYCO); Ella, a biographical musical with Anna Deavere Smith (workshop). London: Elf The Musical (2022, 2023, 2025), Ben Hur Live (02 Arena). Off-Broadway: Zombie Prom, THWAK. Salzburg Music Festival: West Side Story with Cecilia Bartoli and Gustavo Dudamel conducting. Tokyo: The Three Musketeers; Mozart, l’opéra rock; The Boy From Oz; Chanel. Edinburgh Fringe Festival: That Woman! Wallis Simpson Duchess of Windsor (Pick of the Fringe). Development: The Elaborate Truth, a verbal-sparring dramedy with NY Times international best-selling author Gregg Hurwitz.

LIAM STEEL (Choreographer) is a British director and choreographer whose productions have earned three Olivier Awards and three additional nominations, including one for Best Choreographer for Company, the recent Broadway transfer of which won five Tonys, including Best Musical 7

ejthomashall.com

THOMAS MEEHAN (1929–2017) (Book).

Three-time Tony Award-winning book writer for the Broadway musicals Annie, The Producers and Hairspray. He collaborated on many Broadway musicals, including I Remember Mama; Ain’t Broadway Grand: Bombay Dreams; Cry-Baby; Young Frankenstein; Chaplin: Rocky; Dave, The Musical; and the Off-Broadway musicals Annie Warbucks, Death Takes a Holiday and The Lady Eve. He was a long-time contributor of humor pieces to The New Yorker. He co-authored the libretto of the opera 1984 and was an Emmy Award-winning TV comedy writer and collaborator on screenplays, including Mel Brooks’ Spaceballs, To Be or Not to Be, The Producers and One Magic Christmas. He was a member of the Council of the Dramatists Guild.

CHAD BEGUELIN (Lyrics) is a six-time Tony Award nominee. His Broadway works include The Prom (Tony Award nomination for Best Book and Best Original Score, Drama Desk Award nomination for Best Book and Outstanding Lyrics), Disney’s Aladdin (Tony Award nomination for Best Book and Best Original Score, Drama Desk Award nomination for Best Book and Outstanding Lyrics) and The Wedding Singer (Tony Award nomination for Best Book and Best Original Score, Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Lyrics). His debut novel Showmance is available wherever books are sold.

Much love to his husband Tom.

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

ANNIE WOGISCH (Swing). National tour debut!

Originally from N.J., Annie is excited to spread Christmas cheer across the U.S. this holiday season!

“Biggest thanks to my Mom, Dad, family, friends, agents at ATB, ARC Casting, Crossroads Live and the entire Elf team!” @anniewogisch.

MATTHEW SKLAR (Music). Two-time Tony and Emmy award-nominated composer of The Prom (Tony nomination for Best Original Score; winner of the Dramatists Guild Frederick Loewe Award for Dramatic Composition; winner of the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Musical), Elf The Musical and The Wedding Singer (Tony nomination for Best Original Score). Select film/TV: The Prom (Golden Globe nomination for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy), “Elf: Buddy’s Musical Christmas” (Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Music Direction), “Sesame Street,” “American Masters.” Honors include the ASCAP Foundation Richard Rodgers New Horizons Award, the Gilman/ Gonzalez-Falla Theatre Award and the Jonathan Larson Award.

EJ THOMAS HALL

MIKAYLA THRASHER (Ensemble). Regional: My Best Friend’s Wedding (world premiere, Ogunquit Playhouse), The Marvelous Wonderettes (St. Vincent Theatre), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (McCoy Rigby Entertainment). Select: Steel Magnolias (Shelby), Cabaret (Helga). Proud Wagner College theater alum! “Grateful to my family and ATB Talent.” @mikaylathrasher.

The Drowsy Chaperone, Elf and The Prom, which have garnered critical acclaim and perennial productions worldwide. Mr. Martin has won a number of awards for his work, including a Theatre World Award, Drama Desk and a Tony. Next year his musical blockbusters Boop! and Smash will open on Broadway and Millions will premiere at the Alliance Theatre. Mr. Martin is co-creator of cult favorite television series “Slings & Arrows” and more.

2025-2026 Season

WHO’S WHO in the CAST

15

ejthomashall.com THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON EJ THOMAS HALL 2025-2026 Season 16

WHO’S WHO in the CAST Revival. Prestigious collaborations include the RSC, National Theatre, Royal Court, Royal Opera House, Shakespeare’s Globe and 12 productions for Regents Park Open Air Theatre. He also created all the musical staging for the Oscar-winning film musical Les Misérables.

DAVE SOLOMON (Restager). Director: Tootsie (U.S. national tour and Japan), Pump Up the Volume (L.A.). Upcoming: Already Perfect (London).

Associate director/Broadway: Elf, Tootsie, Side Show, The Mystery of Edwin Drood, 9 to 5, Pal Joey, Sunday in the Park with George, The Ritz, Curtains. Film/TV: Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Mr. Holmes,“A Christmas Story Live.” Also a writer/ filmmaker/producer/educator: dave-solomon.com.

RICHARD J. HINDS (Associate Choreographer).

Broadway/West End credits: Titanique, Elf, Company, Come From Away, Disney’s Newsies, Jekyll & Hyde and Il Divo: A Musical Affair.

National/international tours: 9 to 5 and Disney’s High School Musical. Regional credits include The Muny, Ogunquit Playhouse, The REV Theatre Company, Flat Rock Playhouse, Kansas City Repertory Theatre, Pittsburgh CLO, La Mirada Theatre and North Shore Music Theatre. @richardjhinds.

ELYN COLLIER (Assistant Director). Regional associate: Come From Away (Ogunquit, La Mirada), Tootsie (NSMT), Mary Poppins (Berkshire Theatre Group), eight shows at (Pittsburgh CLO). Regional choreography: Little Shop of Horrors (Art Farm); Something Rotten!, Spamalot (both BWW Best Dance Production). Film: The Hiding Place. Faculty Steps on Broadway and Broadway Dance Center. elyncollier.com. @elyncollier.

ALEC MANN (Assistant Choreographer) was most recently the resort-wide choreographer for SkyWorlds Theme Park at Resorts World Genting, Malaysia. He has been the choreographer for Cirque d’Hiver Bouglione in Paris for the past three seasons. Other notable credits include Disneyland Paris, Rabanne, Huda Beauty, Kylie Minogue, Wereldkerst Circus and Printemps Haussmann.

TIM GOODCHILD (Original Scenic and Costume Design). International award-winning designer for stage, television, film and opera. Having designed over 135 productions for London’s West End. He is the recipient of three Laurence Olivier awards and three nominees. He designed “A Simple Man” for BBC2 which won a BAFTA. Queen’s We Will Rock You, The Nutcracker and The Little Prince film are but a few.

PATRICK WOODROFFE (Lighting Design). For over 40 years, Patrick Woodroffe has created the lighting for musical theater, concerts, operas, ballet, architecture and special events. Artists include ABBA, Adele, Elton John, Bob Dylan, Donna Summer, Lady Gaga, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson and the Rolling Stones. In musical the8

ater, he has lit productions of Bat Out of Hell, West Side Story, Mamma Mia! The Party, Jesus Christ Superstar, Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera. He lit the Opening and Closing Ceremonies for the Olympic Games in London.

GARETH OWEN (Sound Design). Broadway highlights: Hell’s Kitchen (Tony nom.), Back to the Future, & Juliet (Tony nom.), MJ (Tony win), Bad Cinderella, Diana, Summer, Come From Away, A Bronx Tale, End of the Rainbow (Tony nom.), A Little Night Music (Tony nom.). West End highlights: Starlight Express, MJ, Back to the Future (Olivier nom.), Prince of Egypt, Come From Away (Olivier win), Bat Out of Hell (Olivier nom.), Memphis (Olivier win), Top Hat (Olivier nom.), Merrily We Roll Along (Olivier win). garethowensound.com. @garethowensound.

SAM COX (Hair and Wig Design). Theater includes Cabaret; Six the Musical; Sister Act; Kiss Me, Kate; The Baker’s Wife; Mrs. Doubtfire; Moulin Rouge!; Bedknobs and Broomsticks; Evita; The Cher Show; The Osmonds; White Christmas; and Curtains (Broadway, West End, U.K. tours). Film and television include The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, Wicked, Paddington in Peru, Snow White, Wicked Little Letters, “Loki,” “Dr. Who,” “Downton Abbey,” James Bond: No Time to Die, Death on the Nile and Cruella.

ALAN WILLIAMS (Music Supervisor, Additional Arrangements & Orchestrations). Olivier and Whatsonstage award-winner. Broadway: Sunset Blvd., Funny Girl. London/UK: Sunset Boulevard, Crazy for You, Elf, Hairspray, Evita, The Boy in the Dress, Big Fish, Aladdin, Funny Girl, A Damsel in Distress, Assassins, Urinetown, The Commitments, A Chorus Line, Shrek, …Spelling Bee, Passion, Spamalot.

Albums: Sunset Boulevard, The Boy in the Dress, Funny Girl and Sister Act. alanwilliamsmd.com.

DOUG BESTERMAN (Orchestration). Threetime Tony Award-winner. Broadway: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Anastasia, A Bronx Tale, It Shoulda Been You, Bullets Over Broadway, Rocky, On a Clear Day, Sister Act, How to Succeed…, Young Frankenstein, Tarzan, Dracula, Thoroughly Modern Millie, The Producers, Seussical, The Music Man, Fosse, Big, Damn Yankees. Film/TV: “Schmigadoon,” Mary Poppins Returns, Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, Frozen, Mulan, Chicago.

DAVID CHASE (Dance Arrangements).

Music director, supervisor and/or arranger for 40-plus Broadway musicals. TV includes “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” “Schmigadoon,” “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend,” “The Sound of Music Live!” and “Étoile.” Also: Boston Pops, Radio City, choral music for Judith Clurman/Hal Leonard. Nominated for two Emmys, a Grammy and an Olivier.

NATE PATTEN (Associate Music Supervision). In addition to Elf, Nate has conducted two other Sklar/

Beguelin scores: The Prom (OBC) and The Wedding Singer (first national tour). Select Broadway: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Be More Chill, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. Tours: Flashdance, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Other conducting credits: The Kennedy Center and MSG. Nate is also an accomplished director and writer.

Thank you to Matthew Sklar. @natepatten.

BOND THEATRICAL (Tour Booking) is an independently owned theatrical booking, marketing and publicity company representing award-winning Broadway shows and live entertainment properties.

Bond connects artists and audiences by forming strategic, authentic and profitable partnerships between producers and presenters across North America.

For a complete list of current projects, please visit bondtheatrical.com.

JESS LEVINE (Production Stage Manager) ) is so excited to be spreading Christmas cheer across the country with the company of Elf for the second time!

Originally from Pittsburgh and a proud graduate of Penn State, favorite credits include the Hairspray national tour; Plano and The Cherry Orchard (Quantum Theatre); and Shantytown (Pittsburgh

EMILY MIU (Assistant Company Manager) is usually spending her time as an associate general manager with Crossroads Live North America. Emily is excited to embark on her first national tour. Previous credits include work with Olney Theatre Center and Detroit Public Theatre. Emily is a proud graduate of the University of Michigan.

KORI PRIOR (Executive Producer) is an accomplished executive with more than 20 years of experience in the global theater and entertainment industry.

She has served as the executive producer of The Phantom of the Opera international tour as well as multiple Broadway tours, including popular titles such as Annie, Tootsie, The Color Purple and My Fair Lady.

She was an executive producer for Elf The Musical on Broadway and spent more than two decades producing and supervising productions around the world for Blue Man Group, where she was instrumental in the development and expansion of the brand on five continents.

ANDREW TERLIZZI (General Manager) has spent almost two decades touring productions worldwide before joining Crossroads Live as senior general manager. Highlights of his career include Kinky Boots, Bodyguard The Musical, Priscilla Queen of the Desert and West Side Story. He is a proud graduate of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts.

GREGG DAMANTI (Production Manager) has been lucky enough to spend the past 25 years working in theater. He got his start as a production stage manager at Busch Gardens and later served as production manager for Blue Man Group in New York City.

Since joining Crossroads Live in 2018, he’s helped bring shows like On Your Feet! (first national), Cats, Lincoln Center’s My Fair Lady (first national), Pretty Woman, Dear Evan Hansen, Kinky Boots and now Elf to the road. All the love to Jen and Ripley—his support system and favorite people to come home to after every tour.

CROSSROADS LIVE NORTH AMERICA (Producer) brings together some of the world’s 9

ejthomashall.com

CHARLIE YOKOM (Music Director) is thrilled to return to Christmastown! Recent: Music director for World’s Greatest Lover at the Edinburgh Fringe.

Touring credits include Elf, The Sound of Music, Hairspray and Waitress. Many thanks to Nate, Dave, Ricky, Marissa and the wonderful cast, band and crew! charlieyokom.com.

KATHY CRAWFORD-HAWKINS (Company Manager) is very excited to be part of the Crossroads team again! Incredibly grateful to her husband and family for their love and support. Thanks to all the folks and shows (Stomp, Walking with Dinosaurs, The Illusionists, Tootsie, Grinch, AMCC, GOAT…) that have given her the opportunity to do what she so enjoys!

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

ARC (Casting). 150+ productions across the globe and 13 Artios Awards for Casting. Broadway/NY past and credits include Othello, Real Women Have Curves, A Wonderful World, Life of Pi, Chicago the Musical, Disney’s The Lion King and Beauty and the Beast, Hadestown, Lost in Yonkers, The Great Comet of 1812, Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes, The 39 Steps, Pippin, La Cage aux Folles. TV/film: Netflix, 20th Century Fox, NBC, Lionsgate, Disney Channel. West End/U.K.: Hadestown, Thriller Live, Menier Chocolate Factory.

Tours: 1776, Hairspray, Waitress, Urinetown, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Finding Neverland, Into the Woods, We Will Rock You. Regional: A.R.T., Berkeley Rep, Alley, Bay Street, Goodspeed, Hollywood Bowl, McCarter, Signature. ARC. Part of RWS Global. castingbyarc.com. IG: @castingbyarc.

KELSEY HARLOW (Assistant Stage Manager) is very excited to be on her first tour! A recent graduate from Carnegie Mellon University, Kelsey completed her master’s degree in stage and production management in May. Some of her favorite shows that she has worked on are Titanic (Carnegie Mellon), Million Dollar Quartet (Berkshire Theatre Group) and Cats (Utah Festival Opera). Happy Holidays!

EJ THOMAS HALL

ALLIED GLOBAL MARKETING (Tour Marketing & Press) is a full-service, integrated marketing agency working with the world’s largest entertainment, consumer and lifestyle brands, including 85+ Broadway shows over three decades.

Current tours: Back to the Future, Beetlejuice, The Book of Mormon, Hadestown, Kinky Boots, Mamma Mia!, Mrs. Doubtfire, The Notebook, The Outsiders, Riverdance, Some Like It Hot, Suffs, The TwentySided Tavern. Upcoming tours: The Great Gatsby, Operation Mincemeat.

Playwrights). Many thanks to family and friends for their continued support!

2025-2026 Season

WHO’S WHO in the CAST

17

ejthomashall.com THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

top producers of live entertainment, now all under one banner. With offices in London, New York, Washington, D.C., Sydney and Melbourne, its global platform ensures the best-loved titles from Broadway and the West End can be embraced by audiences around the world. Crossroads Live North America, under the leadership of Angela Rowles, is an innovative, full-service theatrical production company delivering the Broadway experience to audiences in North America and beyond. Its 2025– 2026 season: Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical, Elf The Musical, Kinky Boots, The Phantom of the Opera (Asia), Tina: The Tina Turner Musical. xroadslive.com/team/na.

TEMPLE LIVE NORTH AMERICA (Producer). is a producer and promoter of exceptional live events and experiences across multiple entertainment genres, including comedy, exhibitions and classical music. TLE has historically produced a variety of theatrical musicals in the UK and internationally, including Elf The Musical in the West End, on Broadway and on tour; Mamma Mia! The Party in London and Stockholm; the 20th Anniversary tour of Rent The Musical in London and the UK; and The Phantom of the Opera and Cats in Monte Carlo.

TLE is part of the Eventim Live International promoter network, which comprises over 30 partners in 15 countries. temple-live.com.

STAFF FOR ELF THE MUSICAL

2025-2026 Season

EJ THOMAS HALL

For Crossroads Live North America

18

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER Kori Prior GENERAL MANAGER Andrew Terlizzi Associate General Manager...............................Emily Miu PRODUCTION MANAGER Gregg Damanti Assistant Production Manager ....... Suzayn MacKenzie-Roy COMPANY MANAGER Kathy Crawford-Hawkins Assistant Company Manager ............................. Emily Miu TOUR MARKETING & PRESS ALLIED GLOBAL MARKETING Andrew Damer Jennifer Gallagher Scott Praefke Jessica Cary Davis Adina Hsu Amenkha Sembenu Emily Toppen Anne Waisanen Kate Wyman TOUR BOOKING DIRECTION BOND THEATRICAL bondtheatrical.com Temah Higgins Mollie Mann DJ Martin Marc Viscardi Wendy Roberts Jenny Bates

10

BOOKING & OPERATIONS Mary K. Witte Madison St. Amour Laura Rizzo Jesse Daniels Kolten Bell Jordan Ivezaj

CASTING Casting by ARC Duncan Stewart, CSA, Mark Brandon, CSA Kyle Coker, Patrick Maravilla, Jarrett Reiche Devi Peot, Jaron Cole Ryan Stana, CEO RWS Global Ryan Saab, EVP RWS Global PRODUCTION STAGE MANAGER ........... JESS LEVINE Assistant Stage Manager ........................... Kelsey Harlow Dance Captain ..........................................Annie Wogisch Assistant Dance Captain ....................... Clark Anton Rulon Associate Costume Designer ........................ Abigail Hahn Assistant Costume Designers ... Haley Silver, David Hyman, and Courtney Irizarry Costume Design Coordinator.......................... Devon Horn Costume PA .................Andrew Burns and Lucy Boogaerts Associate Hair & Wig Designer ...........................Liz Printz Production Carpenter...........................G.E. Simmons Falk Production Props........................................Matthew Frew Assistant Production Props .............................. Justin Cox Drafting ........................................................Nick Murray Associate Lighting Designer ....................... Kirk Fitzgerald Assistant Lighting Designer ..................... Paul Vaillancourt Moving Light Programmer .......................... Jackson Miller Production Electrician ...................................Joel Bulthuis Assistant Production Electrician ................. Matthew Sallee Associate Sound Designer ........................ Anthony Cuzzo Production Audio .............................................Matt Davis Production Audio Consultant...........................Scott Kuker Production Video ..........................................Joel Bulthuis Assistant Production Video ........................ Matthew Sallee Projection/Video Programmer ...................... Benji Arringo Ableton & Keyboard Programmer .............. Daniel Pearson Copyist ...................................................... James Turner Music Backline .................................... Jonas Productions Tech Backline ..............................................Randy Cohen Rehearsal Pianist ..................................... Michael Ferrara Skate Coach ...............................................Chanel Stone Production Assistant ............................. Jess Romanowski HEAD CARPENTER..........................Shawn Riley-Rau Assistant Carpenter ................................Preston Speaker Flyman ..........................................................Nate Lewis Head Props..................................................Ryan Brooke Assistant Props ..................................... Brianna Swanson Head Electrician ........................................ Chandler Gray Assistant Electrician—Video .......................... Jake Gomez Assistant Electrician—FOH .......................... Jenn Kirchner Head Audio ................................................ Jonah Verdon Assistant Audio ........................................ Victoria Ramos Wardrobe Supervisor .............................Cassidy Berglund Assistant Wardrobe ..........................................Robyn Gill Head Hair and Makeup .................................Bridgit Crider Crew Swing ...............................................Thomas Clark Child Manager ............................................. Wilson Jones Physical Therapy Company .............................. Neurotour Travel/Housing ......................... Road Rebel Entertainment Payroll Services .................................................Paychex Insurance..............................Epic Sports & Entertainment Social Media ...................................................Think Tank Production Photography ...Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade Merchandise Provider ...............................Creative Goods For Crossroads Live North America Chief Executive Officer ...............................Angela Rowles Executive Producer .....................................Jayna Neagle Executive Producer .......................................... Kori Prior Vice President of People Operations .........Charisse Fontes

The Director and Choreographer are members of the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers, Inc., an independent national labor union.

Backstage and Front of the House Employees are represented by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (or I.A.T.S.E.).

2025-2026 Season

United Scenic Artists represents the designers and scenic painters for the American Theatre.

The producers wish to thank the Ohio Department of Development for their support in the creation of this production.

Learn more about Crossroads Live North America and its team: xroadslive.com For Temple Live Entertainnment North America Chief Executive Officer ....................................Ingrid Sutej Chief Operating Office...............................Miguel Esteban Group Managing Director ................................ Suzi Arkley Marketing Director.......................................... Emily Brett General Manager .......Amanda Murray for Kindred Partners

EJ THOMAS HALL

Vice President of Finance ...............................Brian Jacob Vice President of Marketing ................. Michael Yuen-Killick Senior General Manager ........................... Andrew Terlizzi Director of Production .......................... Heather Chockley Director of Booking and Engagements ............. Tyler Soltis Production Manager ................................. Gregg Damanti General Manager ............................... Christine Adamczyk General Manager ................................Deana Marie Kirsch Engagement Manager............................. Barrett Newman Associate General Manager............................... Emily Miu Tour Operations Manager ...............Suzayn MacKenzie-Roy Assistant Production Manager ......................Drew Neitzey Production Accounting Manager .................... Sheila Lewis Production Accountant .................................Travis Huebel Staff Accountant ....................................... Electra Walker Tour Project Manager ........................Wendy Joy Beckwith

For more information visit temple-live.com

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

CREDITS Scenery by Great Lakes Studios, Cigar Box Studios, PRG, and TTS Studios. Lighting & video equipment from PRG. Sound equipment by Sound Associates. Rigging by Phoenix Lighting and Rigging. Rehearsal Studio: Gibney Studios, NYC. Trucking by Clark Transfer. Touring Company Lobby Signage by Express Signs in Frederick, MD. Tailoring by Taylor Harrison, Kaitlin Turek, Kaileen Langstone, and Kimberley Wilkes. Buddy executed by Eric Winterling, Inc. Select Jovie costumes executed by Arel Studio, Inc. Jovie’s Shirt executed by Cego Custom Shirt Maker. Millinery Executed by Arnold S. Levine, Inc. North Pole Elves and FP Finale Jackets executed by Bethany Joy Costumes, Inc. NP Elf Legs executed by Randy Carfagno Productions.

Mrs Hobbs’ Robe and Finale and Deb Finale executed

by Vedette Costumes. Santa executed by Fritz Masten.

Select Macy’s Elves and Velvet Leggings by SoHarlem, Inc. Select Macy’s Elves executed by Threaded Pine. MP Finale Costumes executed by Siam Costumes International LTD. Custom Belts executed by Sherry Accessories, Inc. Iceskate blades by Mio Design NYC SPECIAL THANKS Thank you Tom and Kelli for keeping it to a dull roar next door in studio rehearsal. Also, thank you to Luna, our emotional support dog during technical rehearsals.

Technical Venue: Clark State Performing Arts Center 300 S Fountain Ave. Springfield, OH 45506 Please follow us on Facebook, Instagram & TikTok: @elfthemusicaltour

11

ejthomashall.com

Rehearsed at Gibney Center

19

ejthomashall.com THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

A Thank You… WeathervanePlayhouse.com 330.836.2626

MUSICAL

Nov. 20–Dec. 21, 2025

EJ THOMAS HALL

MUSICAL

Jan. 15–Feb. 1, 2026

2025-2026 Season

MUSICAL

20

March 5–29, 2026

Special appreciation is extended to the John S. Knight and James L. Knight Foundation for the generous support of E.J. Thomas Hall. Knight Foundation has funded E.J. Thomas Hall to enhance programming, established the John S. Knight Lectureship at The University of Akron and continues to fund contemporary performers at E.J. Thomas Hall.

Founded by brothers Jack and Jim Knight, newsmen who owned the Akron Beacon Journal, Knight Foundation fosters more informed and engaged communities. The foundation’s arts program works to make art general in Knight communities, so that a range of programming is seen and felt across the city. Knight invests in some of the city’s anchor arts institutions, helping them better engage the public, and in smaller initiatives through the Knight Arts Challenge, which funds the best ideas for the arts. Over the past several years, the arts program has invested millions in the Akron arts, including funding for a new national choreography center at The University of Akron and support for grassroots efforts through the challenge.

The University of Akron and E.J. Thomas Hall would like to thank John Palfrey, chairman of the foundation’s board, and Alberto Ibargüen, president, for their continued support of E.J. Thomas Hall. The University also wishes to recognize the leadership of Hodding Carter, III, former president, CEO and trustee and his predecessors Creed Black, C. Colmery Gibson and Ben Maidenburg. Special recognition is also extended to the late Dr. W. Gerald Austen, University of Akron Honorary alumnus, as former chairman and trustee of Knight Foundation’s Board of Trustees.

Learn more about the foundation at knightfoundation.org.

1301 Weathervane Lane in the Merriman Valley

2025-2026 Season

24TH ANNUAL

LIVE OR VIRTUAL

45

$

Tickets make a great holiday gift!

VIRTUAL TOUR 7 HOMES Sat. Dec. 13, 2025 Sun. Jan. 4, 2026 HOSTED BY

LIVE AND VIRTUAL TICKETS:

sugarplumtour.org/tickets *PLUS ONLINE PROCESSING FEES

ejthomashall.com

LIVE TOUR 5 HOMES Sun. Dec. 7, 2025

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

Celebrate the Magic of the Season!

EJ THOMAS HALL

JANUARY 20–21, 2026

21

ejthomashall.com

2025-26 E.J. THOMAS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS NOVEMBER Sat 15

Akron Symphony Handel’s Messiah

Tue 18 Tuesday Musical: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons at 300 Fri 21

Mama I'm A Big Girl Now

Sat 22

Good Witch/Bad Witch

EJ THOMAS HALL

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

Sun 30 Tuesday Musical: Christmas with Cantus DECEMBER Fri-Sun 5-7

Annual Christmas Craft Show

Fri 12 Akron Symphony Orchestra: Holiday Pops Sat 13

The Doo Wop Project Christmas

Sun 14 Carpenter's Christmas with Helen Welch Mon 15 Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s Holiday Party

2026 JANUARY Sat 17 Akron Symphony Orchestra: Beethoven’s Seventh Tue-Wed 20-21

Mrs. Doubtfire

Fri 30

Broadway Sing-a-Long

FEBRUARY Tue 3

The Blue Man Group

Wed 17

Cirque Dreams Holidaze

Wed 4

Winter Dance Party

Sat 20

Tuba Christmas

Sat 7 Akron Symphony Orchestra: Gospel Meets Symphony

Mon 22 Judy Garland "We Need A Little Christmas" Starring Debbie Wileman

Tue 10 Tuesday Musical: Imani Winds and Boston Brass Sat 14

Couples Therapy

Wed-Thu 18-19

The Music Man

MARCH Tue 3 Tuesday Musical: MarsalisMcAllister-Ames Trio Sat 7 Akron Symphony Orchestra: Mozart & Vivaldi APRIL Wed 1

A Cat in the Hat

2025-2026 Season

Sat 11 Akron Symphony Orchestra: Appalachian Spring

22

Sun 12

Mutts Gone Nuts

Tue 21 Tuesday Musical: Renée Fleming in “Voice of Nature: The Anthropocene” Wed-Thu 22-23

Stomp

Sat 25

University of Akron Steel Drums

MAY Sat 9 Akron Symphony Orchestra: Carmina Burana

THANK YOU

Thank you to all the generous donors whose support helps sustain the vibrant cultural and artistic experiences at E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall.

INDIVIDUALS Ms. Marcia Adair and Mr. Dick Edwards Ms. Elizabeth Bartz Mr. Kurt D. Bazil Mr. Joseph and Mrs. Jami Brookhart Mr. Tim and Mrs. Karla Caton Mr. and Mrs. Thane Cook Mr. Thane and Mrs. Faith Cook Mrs. Barbara J. Crucs Dr. Scott and Mrs. Julianne Dudek Dr. Thomas J. Dudek Ms. Dora M. Eleo Ms. Eva A. Gaspar Mr. Miklos and Mrs. Lorita Gaspar Mr. Terry and Mrs. Mitzie Ginn Mrs. Mary E. Hatcher-Bray Mr. Robert W. and Mrs. Karen A. Heffley Ms. Sharon Hershey Mr. David M. and Mrs. Kathleen M. Hoppe Mr. William and Mrs. Connie Humble Dr. Dianne K. Kauffman

Mr. Marc B. and Mrs. Sharon R. Merklin Mr. Robert and Mrs. Michelle Murphy Mrs. Arlene Nettling Mr. Michael J. and Mrs. Julia H. Pasternak Mr. Blake and Mrs. Kimberly Rawson Dr. and Mrs. Thomas A. Repko Ms. Keli Schimelpfenig Ms. Christine A. Sedensky Dr. Michael J. and Mrs. Kathyrn F. Seider Mr. Frederick J. and Mrs. Susan C. Spring Mr. Robert L. and Mrs. Cynthia J. Tedrow Ms. Barbara R. Terlizzi Drs. Thomas and Diane Vukovich Mr. Thomas A. Waltermire Mr. Edward H. Williams

CORPORATE Ginn Advertising LLC Junior Women’s Civic Club Lucky Shoes, Inc. State & Federal Communications, Inc.

Mrs. Louise M. Kuhns Harvey Rev. John Thomas J. Lane Mrs. Joyce K. Lange Mr. Thomas R. Luck Ms. Nancy L. McKnight

*All donors listed in alphabetical order as of 7/1/24

Set the stage for what’s next at E.J. Thomas Hall.

With a gift to The University of Akron Foundation in your will or trust, you create more than a legacy — you create an opportunity for bold voices, big dreams, and visionary talent to take center stage.

Contact Kimberly Zebedis, executive director for the Center for Gift and Estate Planning, to learn more about how a future gift through your estate can help shape the future of the arts at UA.

Help Akron arts thrive by making a gift today.

LEARN HOW:

Kimberly M. Zebedis

TO GIVE NOW:

Executive Director, The University of Akron Center for Gift and Estate Planning 330-972-2819 n kzebedis@uakron.edu

n Visit uakron.edu/giving n Text UA to 41444 n Scan the QR code

The University of Akron

Center for Gift and Estate Planning The University of Akron is an Equal Education and Employment Institution © 2025 by The University of Akron – uakron.edu/eeo Photo: UA Dance Program, Melania Inasaridze, senior