EJ Thomas Hall 2018 Season

uaevents.com THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

Dear Patron, Welcome to our 45th season at E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall!

We have an exciting year of diverse performances planned with world-class artists, cutting edge programming and many opportunities to see and hear the work of our talented University of Akron students. Our mission is to present performances that are fulfilling, technically remarkable, and inspirational in the finest artistic sense. We hope you, your family members and friends will enjoy many of them!

Our season begins with performances from our resident tenants: The Akron Symphony, Tuesday Musical and Playhouse Square. Among the highlights of this special season is Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox—spend an evening singing and moving as your favorite pop tunes are spun into old sounds. Comedy legends Steve Martin and Martin Short will provide an unforgettable evening of laughter. Look for a night of magic, more humor and silliness with comedian Piff the Magic Dragon. For the holiday season, we have Cirque Dream Holidaze and Tuba Christmas. And, returning for another performance is Harry Potter and the Akron Symphony’s cinematic performance of “The Prisoner of Azkaban.”

With Playhouse Square, we are bringing the best of Broadway to the Thomas Hall stage.

This year, our Broadway in Akron series will feature “Rock of Ages,” “The Sound of Music,” “Finding Neverland” and “Something Rotten.”

We invite you to stay connected to Thomas Hall by visiting us online at UAevents.com and signing up for our weekly e-news. Like our Facebook page at facebook.com/EJThomasHall for contests, pre-sale offers and more.

We begin this season, like every season, with gratitude. We have so many generous patrons and faithful audience members who would never miss a program.

EJ THOMAS HALL

Thank you for your support of E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall at The University of Akron.

Nathan J. Mortimer, CPA Vice President for Finance & Administration/CFO

2018-2019 Season

Wayne County

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Margo E. Ohlson Director of Theatre Operations

One of a kind shopping and dining experiences in the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country — less than an hour away!

428 W. Liberty St. Wooster, OH 44691 wccvb.com 1.800.362.6474 #getawayne

your performance will stick with us forever.

The arts serve as a source of inspiration for us all.

That’s why PNC is proud to support The University of Akron’s E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall, home to Broadway in Akron, The Akron Symphony Orchestra, and Tuesday Musical Association.

©2018 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved. PNC Bank, National Association. Member FDIC

uaevents.com THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON EJ THOMAS HALL 2018-2019 Season 4

GENERAL INFORMATION Phone Numbers you should know: Ticket Office .........................330-253-2488 Information Counter .........330-972-6828 General Information ..........330-972-7595 Website ...................................uaevents.com

Ticket Office

Guest Services

Advance tickets are available at the EJ 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.

Assistive Listening System The Williams Personal Assisted Sound System is available at the McCormick Information Counter for all performances.

This is a special receiver with headphones or loop to enable a listener to hear the spoken word more clearly.

Tickets may also be purchased online at ticketmaster.com, by calling Ticketmaster Charge-by-Phone at 1-800-745-3000, or at Ticketmaster outlets. There is a per ticket service charge and handling fee for all Ticketmaster purchases. Discounts are not available. All patrons, regardless of age, must have a ticket to enter the Hall.

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 EJ Thomas Hall is not responsible for tickets purchased through unauthorized third parties.

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

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 EJ 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 upto-date information.

Accessible Seating EJ 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 330-253-2488.

Handicap Parking There are a limited number of handicap parking spaces available in the EJ 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. There is a $5 charge for all parking.

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

Family Events Some events at EJ 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. continued on page 6

Committed to your health and the community.

World class care, close to home.

akrongeneral.org

330.344.2273

uaevents.com THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON EJ THOMAS HALL 2018-2019 Season 6

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.

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.

ATM PNC Bank has an ATM located in the Ticket Office Lobby for your convenience. Food and beverage service is cash only.

Subscriber Lounge As a season subscriber to the Broadway in Akron performances, you not only “lock in” your seats from season-toseason, but you also enjoy live music, snacks and a private bar in Goodrich Lobby before the performance and during intermission. Season subscribers also receive complimentary parking for the performances, get priority offers to special events and have a personal Ticket Office contact for ticket exchange and replacement services.

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.

In general: Leave home early enough to find parking and locate your seats before the performance begins. Remember to allow time for poor weather conditions, heavy traffic, road construction and parking congestion, especially on school nights.

Safety First – Listen to the pre-show announcements and note the emergency exit routes.

Read the program notes.

When in doubt, ask the ushers. They are here to help.

Following these general rules of the theater will ensure that everyone can enjoy the show.

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

Patrons on emergency call status should leave their name and seat location at the Information Desk so that we may reach you during a pause in the performance.

Smoke Free/Tobacco Free – EJ Thomas Hall is a smoke and tobacco free building.

This includes e-cigarettes.

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

Aisles must be kept free of any obstructions for safety.

For your enjoyment, food and beverages purchased at EJ Thomas Hall are permitted inside the theatre for select shows.

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.

Interested in renting EJ Thomas Hall for that special occasion or performance?

Please call 330-972-7595 or email ejthomas@uakron.edu.

This moment brought to you by you.

Caring isn’t just reserved for doctors and nurses. Akron Children’s Hospital is able to improve the lives of children like Miles and Lucianna because of caring people like you. Every gift, regardless of its size, makes a positive impact on our patients.

What moment will you help make possible? Please give at akronchildrens.org/donate.

uaevents.com THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON EJ THOMAS HALL 2018-2019 Season

Edwin J. “Eddie” Thomas, 1899-1986 Born in 1899, the son of an East Akron postman, “Eddie” Thomas started with The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company in 1926 as a stenographer and worked his way up to President at age 41 (1940), Chief Executive Officer (1956) and Chairman of the Board (1958). Upon his retirement in 1964, at a time where most people would have put their feet up and relaxed, Thomas, who had been a Director of The University of Akron since 1952, turned his energies toward the future of Akron itself. As a member of the Executive Committee of the Area Progress Board he helped raise large sums of money to pump life into “the old hometown.” Projects focused on downtown redevelopment became a reality and his dedication to the United Fund and other local charities helped untold numbers of Akron residents. Even today, The E. J. Thomas Foundation continues to support many local charities and benefits the community. So persuasive were his powers and his personality that in 1967 Goodyear made a pacesetting gift of $1.25 million, the largest ever given to the University at the time, to name the performing arts hall on its campus in his honor. At the July 30, 1968 groundbreaking, Mr. Thomas and Norman P. Auburn, President Emeritus, made the following remarks: “This building will provide an inspiration for all those who labored over the years to keep the light of culture burning in Akron. This structure reflects the inspiration of Norman P. Auburn and all of the trustees, the campaign workers and the donors who have worked so hard to get it.”

—Edwin J. Thomas “The opening of the Edwin J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall is another evidence of the splendid town and gown relationship in Akron. This majestic structure will now serve as a cultural bridge, linking together a thriving community and a great University. All of us who worked over the years to bring this worthy project to fruition are grateful to the thousands of donors whose gifts turned a dream into a reality.”

—Norman P. Auburn, president emeritus, The University of Akron (1973)

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uaevents.com THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON EJ THOMAS HALL 2018-2019 Season B

Guest artists New York City Ballet dancers

Sponsored by Kenan Advantage Group

12/7, 8 & 9

Fri. 7:30pm / Sat. 2:00pm & 7:30pm / Sun 2:00pm Canton Palace Theatre

cantonballet.com 330.455.7220

Cassandra Crowley A r t i s t i c & E xe c u t i ve D i re c t o r

2018-2019 Season

FIFTH ESTATE ENTERTAINMENT presents

CHRIS D’ARIENZO visual storyteller

costume design

lighting design

sound design

DAVID GALLO

CYNTHIA NORDSTROM

MIKE BALDASSARI

CODY SPENCER

hair and wig design

music supervisor

music director

MONICA SABEDRA

BRANDON ETHRIDGE

MARSHALL KEATING

music contractor/ band gear coordinator

casting

general management

WOJCIK/SEAY CASTING

FIFTH ESTATE ENTERTAINMENT

MADDOX

production stage manager

company manager

DAVID BENKEN

TRAVIS HARTY

WILL BRANDSTETTER

tour marketing

tour press

THE PEKOE GROUP

ALLIED TOURING

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

technical supervisor

EJ THOMAS HALL

book by

arrangements and orchestrations by

ETHAN POPP choreographed by

JANET ROTHERMEL directed by

MARTHA BANTA THIS PRODUCTION IS LICENSED BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT WITH SAMUEL FRENCH, INC. EXCLUSIVE TOUR DIRECTION

Stephen Lindsay

The Road Company

Brett Sirota

630 Ninth Avenue, Suite 1212, New York, NY 10036 • (212) 302-5200 • trc.nyc

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uaevents.com THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

THE ENSEMBLE MICHAEL BOJTOS, EMILY CROFT, KYLE JURASSIC, MARK LaDUKE, CARLINA PARKER, DARRELL PURCELL JR�, STEPHEN ROCHET, ZOE UNKOVICH, BRENNA WAHL UNDERSTUDIES Understudies never substitute for listed players unless a specific announcement is made at the time of the performance. for Drew/Stacee Jaxx—MARK LaDUKE, STEPHEN ROCHET for Lonny/Hertz—MICHAEL BOJTOS, KYLE JURASSIC for Dennis—MICHAEL BOJTOS, DARRELL PURCELL JR� for Franz—KYLE JURASSIC for Sherrie—EMILY CROFT, BRENNA WAHL for Regina—EMILY CROFT, CARLINA PARKER for Justice—EMILY CROFT, CARLINA PARKER for Joey Primo—KYLE JURASSIC, STEPHEN ROCHET for Waitress #1/Constance—CARLINA PARKER, ZOE UNKOVICH for Young Groupie—ZOE UNKOVICH Please be advised that strobe lights and theatrical haze/fog effects are used in this production.

ROCK OF AGES BAND Conductor/Piano—MARSHALL KEATING Guitar 1—ZACH “AttAkk” HENNIG Guitar 2—MADDOX Drums—CHRIS MOORE Bass—OLIVER HOFER

2018-2019 Season

EJ THOMAS HALL

CAST

(in order of appearance) Lonny ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� JOHN-MICHAEL BREEN Justice�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� KENYA HAMILTON Dennis ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������RYAN M� HUNT Drew��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ANTHONY NUCCIO Sherrie ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� KATIE LaMARK Regina ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������KRISTINA WALZ Mayor ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ DARRELL PURCELL JR� Hertz���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ANDREW TEBO Franz ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� CHRIS RENALDS Stacee Jaxx ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� SAM HARVEY Waitress #1 �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������BRENNA WAHL Constance ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� EMILY CROFT Ja’Keith Gill �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� DARRELL PURCELL JR� Young Groupie ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� CARLINA PARKER Joey Primo �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������MARK LaDUKE

MUSIC STAFF Music Supervisor—BRANDON ETHRIDGE Music Coordinato—MADDOX Keyboard Programmer—DAVID WEISER

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2018-2019 Season

CAST

KATIE LaMARK

JOHN-MICHAEL BREEN

SAM HARVEY

CHRIS RENALDS

RYAN M� HUNT

KENYA HAMILTON

ANDREW TEBO

EJ THOMAS HALL

ANTHONY NUCCIO

MICHAEL BOJTOS

EMILY CROFT

KYLE JURASSIC

MARK LaDUKE

CARLINA PARKER

DARRELL PURCELL JR�

STEPHEN ROCHET

ZOE UNKOVICH

BRENNA WAHL

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

KRISTINA WALZ

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uaevents.com THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON EJ THOMAS HALL 2018-2019 Season

WHO’S WHO in the CAST

ANTHONY NUCCIO (Drew). Past credits: We Will Rock You and Songs for a New World.

Infinite thanks to Wojcik/Seay and The Roster for their trust and work. “Endless love to Mom and Dad for never missing a show, and to Val, my wife, my rock \m/.” Follow at anthonynuccio.com and neonangels.rocks!

And Dan. KATIE LaMARK (Sherrie) is from Boston, Mass. B.F.A. Syracuse University. Nat’l tour: Rent 20th anniversary tour (Maureen Johnson). Off-B’way: 50 Shades! The Musical Parody (Anastasia Steele). Regional: Chasing Rainbows (Flatrock Playhouse), Mamma Mia! (ACT Connecticut), Rent (Syracuse Stage). TV: “Mr. Robot” (USA Network). @katielamark. katielamark.com.

JOHN-MICHAEL BREEN (Lonny). National tour debut! International: The Great Gatsby (Edinburgh Fringe 2014). Regional: The Graduate (Benjamin), Red (Ken), The Rocky Horror Show (Riff Raff), Spring Awakening (Hanschen), The Burnt Part Boys (Pete). For Mom, Dad, Cara and JF, with love. Endless thanks to W/S Casting and the entire team. B.F.A. Point Park University. @whoismrbreen. johnmichaelbreen.com.

SAM HARVEY (Stacee Jaxx) is ecstatic to be making his national tour debut in the best show ever and is grateful to be a part of such an amazing team. He sends all of his love to his supportive family and a huge shoutout to his beautiful wife Katie who is his hero. samjharvey.com. @samiamharvey.

CHRIS RENALDS (Franz). National tour debut! Off-Broadway: Polkadots (Atlantic).

Selected credits: Newsies (Crutchie, ACCC), Spring Awakening (Gloucester Stage), as well as many shows on Disney Cruise Line.

B.F.A. musical theater from Emerson College. Thanks to the team, love to his family, twin and the Jag Nation. Follow him @chrisrenalds.

RYAN M. HUNT (Dennis) is honored to be running Dupree’s Bourbon Room on this incredible tour! National tours: R&H’s Cinderella (Sebastian), Mamma Mia! (Bill Austin), The Simon & Garfunkel Story (Art Garfun5

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kel). Regional: Matilda (Doctor/Trunchbull u/s), …Spelling Bee (Panch). B.F.A. University of Evansville. Thanks to Todd, ATB, Nathan, Martha and Janet for this opportunity. @ryan_m_hunt� KENYA HAMILTON (Justice) is excited to be a part of the 10th anniversary tour! Regional theater: Rock of Ages (Justice), Ghost (Oda Mae), Sister Act (Tina/Nun Ensemble), Barnum (Joyce Heth), Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Armelia), Rent (Joanne), A Catered Affair (Myra).

B.F.A. Ithaca College. “Thanks to Doodle, my family and friends. Love to my village!”

ANDREW TEBO (Hertz) is stoked to be rockin’ out with Rock of Ages! National tours: Mamma Mia! (Harry), A Christmas Carol (Present), The Fantasticks (Hucklebee).

He’s worked regionally from South Florida to Alaska. B.F.A. acting/directing, Southeast Missouri State University. Follow him @andrew_tebo/andrewtebo.net.

KRISTINA WALZ (Regina) couldn’t be more excited to be making her Rock of Ages debut as Regina. Some of her favorite credits include Katherine in Newsies (Forestburgh Playhouse), Lead Soloist (Aida Cruise Line) and Cindy Lou in The Marvelous Wonderettes (Millbrook Playhouse). She wants to thank her parents for always supporting her!

MICHAEL BOJTOS (Ensemble/Swing, u/s Lonny, u/s Dennis, u/s Hertz). Tenth national tour! Others include The Wedding Singer, Jesus Christ Superstar, Almost Heaven, Thomas and Friends Live!, Dora’s Pirate Adventure (Swiper). Michael is also an award-winning filmmaker (DickinsonAvenueMovie.com). East Carolina University alum! Szeretlek, Jordan.

EMILY CROFT (Ensemble, u/s Sherrie, u/s Regina, u/s Justice) is ready to rock with this incredible cast! Credits include We Have Apples, Hairspray and Disney Cruise Line. Thanks to the creative team, Wojcik/Seay, The Roster.

“Love to my family and my Josh.”

KYLE JURASSIC (Ensemble, Swing, u/s Lonny, u/s Franz, u/s Hertz, u/s Joey Primo) is from New Baltimore, Mich. Regional: Million Dollar Quartet, The Buddy Hol-

2018-2019 Season

EJ THOMAS HALL

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

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uaevents.com THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON EJ THOMAS HALL 2018-2019 Season

WHO’S WHO in the CAST ly Story, Forever Plaid, Spamalot, Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson, Catch Me If You Can. Thanks to Hudson Artists, Wojcik/Seay and always, Ginny. @kylejurassic.

MARK LaDUKE (Joey Primo/Ensemble, u/s Drew, u/s Stacee Jaxx) is from Jacksonville, Fla. B.F.A. from Berklee College of Music. Top 50 contestant on “American Idol” (2013). Credits: Legally Blonde: The Musical international tour. The Little Mermaid: The Musical at Fireside Theatre. Instagram: @markladuke.

CARLINA PARKER (Ensemble, u/s Justice, u/s Regina) is so excited to be back on The Sunset Strip. Belmont University alum. Credits include Mamma Mia!, Rock of Ages (Justice). “To my amazing family and friends, thanks for all the love!” Instagram: @carlina_parker. Twitter: @CarlinaParker.

DARRELL PURCELL JR. (Ja’Keith/Mayor, u/s Dennis). Recently seen in The Scottsboro Boys at Signature Theatre. Regional: Ragtime, Hairspray (New Hampshire Theatre Award nomination), Gypsy, West Side Story. Education: East Carolina University/New York Film Academy. Thanks to Wojcik/Seay Casting and RKS Management. @WayneBomb.

STEPHEN ROCHET (Swing, u/s Drew, u/s Stacee Jaxx, u/s Joey Primo) is thrilled to be a part of the 10th anniversary national tour. UCF alum. Favorite credits include Nine, Into the Woods, Rock of Ages. Television: “Billions.”

“Thanks to my family and Wojcik/Seay!”

Instagram: @StephenRochet.

ZOE UNKOVICH (Dance Captain/Swing) is delighted to be continuing her Rock of Ages journey. Favorite credits include Rock of Ages (NCL), Priscilla Queen of the Desert and Burn the Floor, a touring ballroom theatrical production.

BRENNA WAHL (Ensemble, u/s Sherrie) is totally stoked to join the cast of one of her dream shows! Favorite credits include Priscilla Queen of the Desert on Norwegian Cruise Line, and playing her fav princess, Belle, at Hong Kong Disneyland. @brennasworld.

MARTHA BANTA (Director) has directed new work in NYC at The Public Theater, New York Theatre Workshop, Rattlestick Theater, Ensemble Studio Theatre, New Georges, Lamb’s Theater, Clark Theater/Lincoln Center, Urban Stages. Regionally: The Ordway, Portland Center Stage, Cincinnati Playhouse, Pittsburgh Public Theater, St. Louis Rep, Westport Playhouse, Merrimack Repertory, Capital Repertory, Vineyard Arts, Berkshire Theatre Festival. Founding Artistic Director of the Adirondack Theatre Festival; Artistic Associate at New York Theatre Workshop; resident director for the original production of Rent—supervised London, Broadway, tour productions, directed Rent in Germany and Japan; Associate Director for Mamma Mia! on Broadway and the national tour.

JANET ROTHERMEL (Choreographer).

Mamma Mia! Broadway, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico and U.S. national tours; Side Show Broadway; Sister Act Broadway, U.S. national tours, Asia tour; Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Broadway, Germany and U.S. national tours; “Dancing with the Stars”; “The Today Show”; “The View”; “The Meredith Vieira Show”; “The Tony Awards”; Miss USA and Miss Universe pageants; Beauty and the Beast (Disney 2017); Mamma Mia! (2008).

SAMANTHA TELLA (Assistant Director).

Favorite credits: Boeing Boeing and The Graduate (Winnipesaukee Playhouse, winner of NH Best Production 2017), …Spelling Bee, Rent and The Addams Family (Chappell Players Theatre). WordPlay Shakespeare, New Georges and Juilliard. Documentary film credits include Strangers No More and HBO’s Masterclass. Endless thanks to Martha! Endless love to Marc and family!

TONY GONZALEZ (Associate Choreographer). Stages St. Louis: Mamma Mia! (Choreographer), PCLO: Mamma Mia! (Associate Choreographer), Transcendence Theatre Company Creative Director/Choreographer.

Performance: Mamma Mia! (Broadway, Las Vegas, national tour) nine years, We Will Rock You (Las Vegas), Joseph… (tour), Saturday Night Fever (tour), Disney on Classic (Japanese tour). B.F.A. Otterbein University.

Forever grateful to Janet and Martha.

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CODY SPENCER (Sound Design). Cody Spencer’s work as Sound Designer includes Joan of Arc: Into the Fire, Here Lies Love (Lortel Award) and The Pee Wee Herman Show. Some of his work as Associate Sound Designer includes Mean Girls; Terms of My

RAY WETMORE (Production Props Supervisor). RoA is co-supervised by Vicki Ayers. Recent Broadway credits: To Kill a Mockingbird, The Waverly Gallery, The Boys in the Band, 1984, Carousel, Farinelli and the King. Off-B’way: Sweeney Todd.

National tours: The Humans, Eclipsed, Movin’ Out, Gypsy, Grease, The 101 Dalmatians Musical, Legally Blonde. Cirque du Soleil: Michael Jackson ONE, Zarkana, Paramour, One Night for One Drop.

BRANDON ETHRIDGE (Music Supervisor) has been a part of Rock of Ages since 2010 when he was the musical director of the first national tour. He is currently the music director and keyboardist of the Ultimate Queen Celebration (Queen tribute), associate conductor of School of Rock (Broadway) and plays keyboards for Japanese rockstar, Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi.

MARSHALL KEATING (Music Director/ Conductor) is thrilled to be rocking out with Rock of Ages once again. Previous national/ international tours include Camelot and Rock of Ages. In NYC, Marshall has music directed numerous cabarets and musicals. Together with his writing partner, he is currently developing two new works. Marshall has been a proud faculty member of the CAP21 conservatory since 2006 and The Performing

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MIKE BALDASSARI (Lighting Design).

Tony- and Emmy-nominated designer whose work has been seen live in 25+ countries.

Broadway: Cabaret (1998/2014), Children of a Lesser God, First Date, Holler If Ya Hear Me. Films: Ghostbusters, Nine, Rock of Ages, Joyful Noise, Sex and the City 2, Neil Young Trunk Show. Television: The (RED) Concert/ Broadcast from Times Square with U2 and Bruce Springsteen, U2’s Top of The Rock for “The Tonight Show,” “Documentary Now!,” pre-tapes for “SNL,” Seth Meyers. Netflix: Ray Romano, Joe Rogan, Dana Carvey, John Mulaney. Multiple NYEs with Phish at MSG. Televised concerts: Mary J. Blige, Tim McGraw, Sam Smith, Garth Brooks. mike-o-matic�com�

MONICA SABEDRA (Hair and Wig Design). Television: “Days of Our Lives” (NBC, Emmy win), “Victorious” (Nickelodeon, Key Hair Stylist, Emmy nom.), “iCarly,” “Jane the Virgin” (Key/third Hair Stylist, CW), “How to Get Away with Murder” (Key, ABC), “Anger Management” (Key, FX), “Glee” (Addl.

Hair, (Fox). National tours: Jesus Christ Superstar (Wig/Hair Designer/Supervisor), Peter Pan (Wig/M.U./Hair Designer, Nederlander/McCoy/Rigby Ent.). Regional theater: Great Expectations, Blithe Spirit, Noises Off, Oliver Twist, The Rehearsal (A Noise Within, Wig/Hair Designer). Many more productions than there is room to list. So excited and grateful to be working on RoA�

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

CYNTHIA NORDSTROM (Costume Design). Fashion-based designer and stylist with a love for the ’80s. Credits: Broadway: Rocktopia; Off-Broadway: This One’s for the Girls, Evil Dead the Musical, Property Known as Garland, Jewtopia, Silent Laughter. While NYC-based, Cynthia’s designs can be seen in worldwide tours and shows on stage, ice and in air for Marvel Live, Disney Live, Universal Studios Japan and Stage Entertainment. @cynthianordstromdesigner on instagram.

Surrender; War Paint; Oh, Hello; Lazarus; Beautiful; If/Then; The Book of Mormon; Bring It On: The Musical; and Annie.

EJ THOMAS HALL

DAVID GALLO (Visual Storytelling) creates innovative scenic and media design for television, concerts and events. He has designed over 30 Broadway shows, garnering him four Tony nominations and one win. He has also won two Emmy Awards for Best Production Designer for “Sesame Street.” He is creative director for Phish’s New Year’s Eve extravaganzas, his Blue Man Group work has been seen by millions and the Illusionarium he created for Norwegian Cruise Line was a pioneer in immersive entertainment. His work is seen daily in a dozen cities worldwide. The Smithsonian Institution and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame both own samples of his work. davidgallo.com.

2018-2019 Season

WHO’S WHO in the CAST

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uaevents.com THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON EJ THOMAS HALL 2018-2019 Season

WHO’S WHO in the CAST Arts Project since 2015. Love and gratitude to this wonderful creative team, cast, band, crew and to his amazing students, friends, family and husband.

MADDOX (Music Contractor/Band Gear Coordinator) is proud to continue his Rock of Ages journey with the second national touring production. Maddox has worked with bands such as Kill Hannah, Smashing Pumpkins, Jet and Papa Roach, in addition to producing his own solo music. Maddox would like to thank his family for their support over the years.

WOJCIK|SEAY CASTING (Casting) is Scott Wojcik and Gayle Seay. Along with Holly Buczek and Kevin Metzger-Timson, they cast all mediums. National and international tours: Something Rotten!, Rent, Kinky Boots, Motown: The Musical, Vocalosity, Flashdance, Dreamgirls, Nice Work If You Can Get It, Jekyll & Hyde, Joseph…Dreamcoat and A Chorus Line. Off-Broadway includes Othello: The Remix, Church & State The Play, The Portal, Tennessee Williams’ The Two-Character Play, Handle with Care, Triassic Parq and more. Regional: Multiple seasons/shows for Riverside Theatre, Fla.; Arvada Center, Colo.; John W. Engeman Theater, N.Y.; Theatre Raleigh, N.C.; Stages St. Louis, Mo.; Theatre Aspen, Colo.; Tuacahn Performing Arts Center, Utah� wscasting�com� @WScasting� FIFTH ESTATE ENTERTAINMENT (Producer) is a new production and management company based in New York City that specializes in producing and managing tours and productions in North America and around the globe. President Nathan Gehan has over 20 years of management experience on Broadway and touring productions, including The Boys in the Band, The Play That Goes Wrong, The Audience, Something Rotten!, Cirque du Soleil Paramour and Motown: The Musical. The company’s inaugural production, Rock of Ages, will play over 100 cities across North America in 2018–19. Additionally, 5EE is the general manager for Looking for Christmas, the new Clint Black musical set for fall 2019, as well as various projects in development. 5ee.nyc.

DAVID BENKEN (Technical Supervisor).

Celebrating 20 years on Broadway and 50

U.S. international and touring productions.

Credits include The Play That Goes Wrong, Paramour, Misery, The Lion King, Motown: The Musical, El Rey Leon (Madrid), Annie, Mary Poppins, Peter and the Starcatcher, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, The Boy from Oz, The Seafarer, The Phantom… (Las Vegas).

TRAVIS HARTY (Production Stage Manager) graduated from Otterbein University with a B.A. in theater and music. National tours: Once, Memphis, The Illusionists: Live from Broadway, Flashdance, 42nd Street.

NYC: Clinton! (NYMF). Regional: Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, Dracula, multiple Humana Festival plays (Actors Theatre of Louisville).

“Yes, RUSH is the greatest band of all time.”

WILL BRANDSTETTER (Company Manager). Broadway/national tour: Alton Brown: Eat Your Science, Brain Candy Live, Mythbusters: Behind the Myths, Fela!, Kids in the Hall, Mannheim Steamroller. Regional: Idaho Shakespeare Festival, Great Lakes Theater Festival, Marriott Lincolnshire. Proud graduate of Baldwin Wallace University’s music theater program, where he recently directed Bring It On. “Para mi padre, por todos los dias.”

ALLIED TOURING (Tour Press) is a full-service engagement management agency representing Broadway tours and other live touring events across North America.

Current tours: An American in Paris, The Book of Mormon, Bright Star, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella, Elf The Musical, The Humans, Kinky Boots, Motown: The Musical, Rent, School of Rock, Something Rotten! and Irving Berlin’s White Christmas.

Upcoming tours: Bandstand; Bat Out of Hell; Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory; Hello, Dolly!; The Lightning Thief; Mean Girls; The Play that Goes Wrong; and SpongeBob SquarePants.

THE ROAD COMPANY (Tour Direction).

Founded in 1997 by Stephen Lindsay and Brett Sirota. In addition to Rock of Ages, current representation includes Wicked, Ain’t Too Proud, The Prom, Beetlejuice, The Band’s Visit, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, SpongeBob SquarePants, The Choir of Man, The Illusionists and The Lightning Thief: The Percy 8

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uaevents.com THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON EJ THOMAS HALL 2018-2019 Season

WHO’S WHO in the CAST Jackson Musical. The Road Company is made possible by Magaly Barone, Shawn Willett, Jenny Kirlin, Justine Spingler and Joe Reed.

CHRIS D’ARIENZO (Book) adapted and directed the motion picture Barry Munday starring Patrick Wilson, Judy Greer, Chloë Sevigny, Jean Smart, Malcolm McDowell, Cybill Shepherd and Billy Dee Williams (barrymundayfilm.com). Chris also recently completed the adaptation of Rock of Ages for New Line Cinema and his band, Saint America, is releasing their self-titled debut album this fall. Chris would like to thank his family for supporting his love of theater…and also thank those three stoners in high school who threw his Trapper Keeper in the urinal for introducing him to Guns N’ Roses. Peace!

ETHAN POPP (Orchestrations/Arrangements). 2013 “Best Orchestrations” Tony Award nomination for Motown: The Musical and 2014 Grammy nomination as producer of the original cast recording of Motown: The Musical. Television: “Smash” (music supervisor, music producer, arranger, orchestrator), “A Capitol Fourth” (PBS), The 2013 Tony Awards (CBS), The 64th Primetime Emmy Awards (FOX), “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” (NBC), The 2009 Tony Awards (CBS), “Late Night with Conan O’Brien” (NBC).

Broadway/theater: Hedwig and the Angry Inch starring Neil Patrick Harris, Rock of Ages (Broadway, U.S. tour, Toronto, Australia and London productions as music supervisor, arranger and orchestrator), Disney’s Tarzan (Broadway), Glory Days (Broadway), We Will Rock You (German premiere), Disney’s Aida (German premiere/European tour), Mamma Mia! (German premiere), Disney’s The Lion King (German premiere), Forever Plaid (U.S. tour), The Radio City Christmas Spectacular (Mexico City), Fame! (U�S� tour), amongst countless others. He has also orchestrated for the National Symphony Orchestra. Much love to his wife Vanessa and his entire family for their endless support.

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STAFF FOR ROCK OF AGES PRODUCER FIFTH ESTATE ENTERTAINMENT GENERAL MANAGEMENT FIFTH ESTATE ENTERTAINMENT Nathan Gehan Michael Fiske Caleigh Holmes COMPANY MANAGER Will Brandstetter PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT David Benken Rose Palombo TOUR PRESS REPRESENTATIVES ALLIED TOURING Marya K. Peters Andrew Damer Meghan Kastenholz Sarah Dahlberg Jennifer Gallagher Anne Dailey Meyer Scott Praefke Jacqueline Smith Anne Waisanen MARKETING/SOCIAL MEDIA/DESIGN/WEBSITE THE PEKOE GROUP Amanda Pekoe Christopher Lueck Jessica Ferreira Jenny Dorso Connor Santos Vanessa Gordillo Jason K. Murray Briana Lynch Ryan Meitzler CASTING WOJCIK/SEAY CASTING Scott Wojcik Gayle Seay LEGAL COUNSEL FRANKLIN, WEINRIB, RUDELL & VASSALLO, P.C. Julie Angell Production Stage Manager ..................Travis Harty Assistant Stage Manager .................. Rachel Heine Assistant Director.......................... Samantha Tella Associate Choreographer ............... Tony Gonzalez Dance Captain .................................Zoe Unkovich Assistant Scenic Designer ..............Viveca Gardiner Assistant Costume Designer ........... Ryan Rossetto Associate Lighting Designer ............Mitchell Fenton Assistant Lighting Designer ............Gertjan Houben Moving Light Programmer .................... Colin Scott Associate Sound Designer ................ Thomas Ford Hair and Makeup Consultant ........... Brandon Bolton Production Carpenter ............... Mackenzie Kovaka Assistant Carpenter .................................Nick Ray Production Audio Engineer ................ Chad Parsley Head Sound ....................................Michelle Reiss Assistant Sound ............................... Thomas Ford Production Props ........... Ray Wetmore, Vicki Ayers Head Props................................Brian Gustaveson Assistant Props ................................Becca Nipper Production Electrician ...................Brendan Quigley Head Electrician ....................... Lionel “Train” Riley Assistant Electrician ....................... Joel Schulman

CREDITS Scenery built by TTS STUDIOS. Lighting equipment from CHRISTIE LIGHTS. Sound equipment from SOUND ASSOCIATES. Make-up provided by M·A·C. TICKETING AND ANALYTICS TANNA, INC./GREGG ARST

VENDORS Q1 Lighting & Scenic, Thom Rubino Illusions, Claire Rufiange for Ray Wetmore Productions LLC.

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MUSIC CREDITS “Anyway You Want It” written by Steve Perry and Neal Schon. © Published by Lacey Boulevard Music and Weed High Nightmare Music. “Beaver Hunt” written by David Gibbs and Chris Hardwick. © Published by Feed the Pony Songs and Fish Ladder, Inc. (BMI). “Can’t Fight This Feeling” written by Kevin Cronin. © Published by Fate Music (ASCAP). “Cum On Feel the Noise” written by Neville Holder and James Lea. © Barn Publishing (Slade), Ltd. “Don’t Stop Believin’” written by Jonathan Cain, Stephen Ray Perry, Neal J. Schon. © Published by Weed High Nightmare Music and Lacey Boulevard Music.

“Every Rose Has Its Thorn” written by Bobby Dall, Bruce Anthony Johannesson, Bret Michaels, Rikki Rocket. © All rights owned or administered by Universal Music-Z Songs on behalf of Cyanide Publ./ BMI. Used by permission. “The Final Countdown” written by Joey Tempest. © Screen Gems-EMI Music, Inc. “Harden My Heart” written by Marvin Webster Ross. © 1980 WB Music Corp (ASCAP), Narrow Dude Music (ASCAP) and Bonnie Bee Good Music. All rights administered by WB Music Corp. All

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

SPECIAL THANKS Matthew DiCarlo, Mike East, Kate Egan, Shawn Pennington, Matthew Jerome Sycle, Townsend Teague, Matt Weaver, Hillary Weaver

EJ THOMAS HALL

rockofagesmusicaltour.com

rights reserved. Used by permission. “Heat of the Moment” written by Geoffrey Downes and John K. Wetton. © 1982 WB Music Corp (ASCAP), Almond Legg Music Corp (ASCAP) and Pallan Music. All rights on behalf of itself and Almond Legg Music Corp administered by WB Music Corp. All rights reserved. Used by permission. “Heaven” written

by Jani Lane, Erik Turner, Jerry Dixon, Steven Sweet and Joey Allen ©. “Here I Go Again” written by David Coverdale and Bernard Marsden. © 1982 C.C. Songs, Ltd. (PRS) and Seabreeze Music Ltd. Administered by WB Music Corp. (ASCAP). All rights reserved. Used by permission. “High Enough” written by Jack Blades, Ted Nugent and Tommy R. Shaw. © Published by Bicycle Music Company, Broadhead Music and Wixen Music. “Hit Me with Your Best Shot” written by E. Schwartz. © Sony/ ATV Tunes LLC/ASCAP. “I Hate Myself for Loving You” written by Desmond Child and Joan Jett. © All rights owned or administered by Universal-PolyGram Int. Publ. Inc./ASCAP. Used by permission. “I Wanna Rock” written by Daniel Dee Snyder. © All rights owned or administered by Universal Music-Z Melodies on behalf of Snidest Music/SESAC. Used by permission. “I Want to Know What Love Is” written

by Michael Leslie Jones. © Published by Somerset Songs Publishing, Inc. “Just Like Paradise” written

by David Lee Roth and Brett Tuggle. © Diamond Dave Music c/o RS Plane Music. “Keep on Lovin’ You” written by Kevin Cronin. © Published by Fate Music (ASCAP). “Kiss Me Deadly” written by Mick Smiley. © Published by The Twin Towers Co. and Mike Chapman Publishing Enterprises. “More Than Words” written by Nuno Bettencourt and Gary F. Cherone. © All rights owned or administered

by Almo Music Corp. on behalf of Color Me Blind Music/ASCAP. Used by permission. “Nothin’ But a Good Time” written by Bobby Dall, Bruce Anthony Johannesson, Bret Michaels, Rikki Rocket. © All rights owned or administered by Universal Music-Z Songs on behalf of Cyanide Publ./BMI. Used by permission. “Oh Sherrie” written by Steve Perry, Randy Goodrum, Bill Cuomo, Craig Krampf. © Published

by Street Talk Tunes, April Music Inc. & Random Notes, Pants Down Music and Phosphene Music.

“Renegade” written by Tommy Shaw. © All rights owned or administered by Almo Music Corp. on behalf of itself and Stygian Songs/ASCAP. Used by permission. “The Search Is Over” written by James Peterik and Frankie Sullivan. © 1984 Kohaw Music (ASCAP) and Easy Action Music (ASCAP) and Rude Music, Inc. (BMI). All rights administered by Kohaw Music (ASCAP) obo itself and Easy Action Music (ASCAP), c/o The Bicycle Music Company and Three Wise Boys Music (BMI) on behalf of itself and Rude Music (BMI). All rights reserved. Used by permission. “Shadows of the Night” written by D.L. Byron. © Zen.Archer/ASCAP. “Sister Christian” written by Kelly Keagy. © Published by Bicycle Music Company. “To Be with You” written by David Grahame and Eric Martin. © EMI April Music, Inc., obo itself, Dog Turner Music and Eric Martin Songs

2018-2019 Season

Wardrobe Supervisor ......................Felicia Genther Wardrobe Assistant ................... Stephanie Ebeling Hair Supervisor ................................Felicia Wilson Musical Contractor/Band Gear Coordinator......Maddox Keyboard Programmer ..................... David Weiser Production Assistant ...................... Riley Hutchison Production Photography...................Jeremy Daniel Advertising & Marketing .............. The Pekoe Group Accountant ...................Withum Smith + Brown PC Anthony Moore Controller ........................................ Heather Allen 321 Theatrical Management Banking ............ Signature Bank/Margaret Monigan Insurance.... AON Albert G. Ruben/Claudia Kaufman Payroll ........................... Checks and Balances Inc. Transportation and Accommodations ....Road Rebel Entertainment Travel, Elizabeth Helke/ABA Merchandising.............................The Araca Group

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(ASCAP). “Too Much Time on My Hands” written by Tommy Shaw. © Stygian Songs/ASCAP. “Waiting for a Girl Like You” written by Michael Leslie Jones and Louis Gramattico. © Published by Somerset Songs Publishing, Inc. “Wanted Dead or Alive” written by Jon Bon Jovi and Richard S. Sambora. © All rights owned or administered by UniversalPolyGram Int. Publ. Inc. on behalf of itself and Bon Jovi Publishing/ASCAP. Used by permission. “We Built This City” written by Dennis Lambert, Martin George Page, Bernie Taupin and Peter Wolf. © All rights owned or administered by UniversalPolyGram Int. Publ. Inc. on behalf of Little Mole Music/ASCAP. Used by permission. “We’re Not Gonna Take It” written by Daniel Dee Snyder. © All rights owned or administered by Universal Music-Z Melodies on behalf of Snidest Music/SESAC. Used by permission.

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

All stage work performed by employees represented by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (or I.A.T.S.E.).

The Theatre Managers, The Press Agents, and Company Managers employed in this production are represented by the Association of Theatrical Press Agents & Managers.

Have you ever wondered why the ACT Curtain and seats of most theatres are red? The tradition of using red for the ACT Curtain and seat covers of a theatre began in the nineteenth century. It could be that red is the color of opulence and grandeur, since, at one time, its use was restricted only to royalty. However, a more likely explanation is that red is the first color lost to our sight in low light conditions. This makes it easier for our eyes to adjust to the darkness of the theatre.

Why is the room where the actors wait called the Green Room? The direct answer is that no one knows for sure because it is such a long standing tradition the origin of the phrase has been forgotten. Some explanations are: n Green is the easiest color on your eyes. n Green is a calming color and puts the actors at ease before going onstage.

EJ THOMAS HALL

n The room was painted green to relieve the eyes from the glare of the stage. n In Shakespeare’s time, the room where the actors waited to go onstage was filled with greenery because it was believed the moisture in the plants helped the actor’s voices. n Many actors are nervous before a performance and may be nauseous and look “green.”

2018-2019 Season

n In Shakespeare’s time, the stage area was known as the “Green” because it was usually a grassy area. The Green Room was the room closest to the stage or green.

And the most likely explanation…

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EJ Thomas Hall Some Trivia and History

n Before modern makeup was invented, the actor’s makeup was actually cured or it would crack. Before the makeup was cured it was said to be “green” or uncured and the actors were sent to the Green Room to sit quietly while their makeup dried.

First Ladies National Historic Site Educational programs for adults and children Group tours & school visits welcome yearround

Changing exhibits on the contributions & lives of First Ladies

Explore the impact first ladies have made on the political and cultural lives of our nation.

First Ladies National Historic Site | National Park Service Located in downtown Canton | 205 Market Avenue South Canton OH 44702 | firstladies.org | 330.452.0876

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The birthplace home of First Lady Ida Saxton McKinley

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

The sound-reflecting ceiling is the most unique feature of the building, with EJ Thomas Hall being one of the few halls in the world whose movable ceiling still functions. The 44 ton ceiling is composed of 3,800 interlocking steel panels, suspended in curved sections from a network of counterweighted cables attached to the Louis A. Witzman Counterweights in Goodrich Lobby with a combined weight of 47 tons. When the weights are all the way down, the ceiling is all the way up.

EJ THOMAS HALL

Just as on sailing ships, it is bad luck for an actor to whistle on or off stage. Original stage crews were hired off ships in port, theatrical rigging having its origin in sailing rigging. Sailors used coded whistles to communicate. When the sailors became theatre riggers they used the same coded whistles to communicate scene changes.

Actors who whistled could confuse them and cause mistakes in scene changes that could be dangerous to actors and crew alike.

2018-2019 Season

Many actors use the phrase “break a leg” before a performance, a way of wishing their fellow actors good luck before the show. But where did this phrase come from? Theatre has many superstitions, one of which is wishing someone good luck will actually backfire and give the actor bad luck in his performance. So by saying “break a leg” you can wish someone well without jinxing them. But back in the days of vaudeville, not every performer went on stage in front of the audience every night.

The side curtains on a theatre stage are known as “legs.” When you go out in front of the audience, you enter from the side, and “breaking the leg” means you are now in front of the audience receiving pay. So wishing an actor “break a leg” is wishing them a good paid performance.

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2018-2019 Season EJ THOMAS HALL

A Thank You…

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 $11 million 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.

Learn more about the foundation at knightfoundation.org.

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The University of Akron and EJ Thomas Hall would like to thank John Palfrey, chairman of the foundation’s board, and Alberto Ibargüen, president, for their continued support of EJ 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 Dr. W. Gerald Austen, University of Akron Honorary alumnus, as former chairman and trustee of Knight Foundation’s Board of Trustees.

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

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

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2018-2019 EJ THOMAS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS OCTOBER 2018 SAT 10/13 Doo Whop Project 7:30pm SUN 10/14 Catapult: The Amazing Magic of Shadow Dance 3PM TUE 10/16 Tuesday Musical Les Violons du Roy 7:30PM WED 10/24 Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox – Back in Black & White Tour 7:30PM THU 10/25 Knight Lecture Series—Ann Curry 7:30PM SAT 10/27 Confucius Institute 7PM NOVEMBER 2018 THU 11/1 Arlo Guthrie—Alice’s Restaurant— Back By Popular Demand 8PM FRI 11/2 Steve Martin and Martin Short 8PM SAT 11/3 Tuesday Musical: The Tell-Tale Heart Musical Ghost Story 7:30PM SUN 11/4 An Evening With: Stephen Marley Acoustic 8PM WED 11/7 UA School of Music: Collage 7:30PM THU 11/8 Simon and Garfunkel Story—50th Anniversary Tour 7:30PM FRI 11/9 The University of Akron: Akron A Cappella 8PM

SAT 11/10 TUE 11/13 WED 11/14 FRI 11/16 TUE 11/27 FRI 11/30

Piff the Magic Dragon 8PM Broadway in Akron: Rock of Ages 7:30PM Broadway in Akron: Rock of Ages ASO: Verdi and Valkyries 8PM Amy Ray and Her Band 8PM 38th Annual Christmas Craft Show

DECEMBER 2018 SAT 12/1 38th Annual Christmas Craft Show SUN 12/2 38th Annual Christmas Craft Show TUE 12/4 Broadway in Akron: Sound of Music 7:30Pm WED 12/5 Broadway in Akron: Sound of Music 7:30PM FRI 12/7 ASO: Home for the Holidays 7:30PM SAT 12/8 Tuba Christmas 10AM & 2PM SAT 12/8 NUANCE Holiday Show 8PM SUN 12/9 UA School of Music: Jingle Jazz 3PM SAT 12/15 The University of Akron Commencement 10AM SAT 12/15 The University of Akron Commencement 1:30PM TUE 12/18 Cirque Dreams Holidaze 7:30PM FRI 12/28 Akron Children’s Hospital Charity Ball 8PM

EJ THOMAS HALL

FEBRUARY 2019 SAT 2/2 UA Dance Institute: Snow Maiden 7:30PM SUN 2/3 UA Dance Institute: Snow Maiden 3PM SAT 2/9 ASO: La Mer 8PM TUE 2/12 Tuesday Musical: Lawrence Brownlee 7:30PM THU 2/14 UA School of Music: University of Akron Band Clinic FRI-SUN 2/15-17 Beyond the Stars Dance Competition SAT 2/23 ASO Pops: Gospel Meets Symphony 7:30PM TUE 2/26 Tuesday Musical: Joshua Bell 7:30PM

MARCH 2019 SAT 3/2 Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azaban in Concert 1PM SAT 3/2 Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azaban in Concert 7:30PM TUE 3/5 Broadway in Akron: Finding Neverland 7:30PM WED 3/6 Broadway in Akron: Finding Neverland 7:30PM THU 3/7 UA Foundation Lecture: Jim Clapper, Admiral Mike Mullen, and Lisa Monaco FRI 3/8 One Night in Memphis 8PM TUE 3/12 Tuesday Musical: Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center 7:30PM SAT 3/16 ASO: Also sprach Zarathustra 8PM THU 3/21 UA School of Music: Jazzfest 7:30PM FRI 3/22 UA School of Music: Jazzfest 7:30PM SAT 3/23 One Funny Mother—Dena Blizzard 8PM THU 3/28 Tuesday Musical: Escher String Quartet 7:30PM SAT 3/30 Groundworks 8PM

2018-2019 Season

JANUARY 2019 TUE 1/15 RHPB: Sailesh 9:09PM SAT 1/19 ASO: Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 4 8PM TUE 1/22 Tuesday Musical: Calidore String Quartet 7:30PM FRI 1/25 UA School of Music: Vocal-Choral Festival 4PM SAT 1/26 Vagina Monologues 8PM

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

I build by taking apart.

I see what I’m capable of.

I find solutions.

I ask bigger questions.

I make today count.

Contact us to schedule a personal tour today. admission@oldtrail.org | oldtrail.org/admission | 330.666.1118

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Big, world-changing moments.

Every day, at Old Trail School.

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EJ THOMAS HALL STAFF Nathan J. Mortimer, CPA njm9@uakron.edu

Margo Ohlson Director of Theatre Operations mohlson@uakron.edu

Melissa Paul Special Projects mlpaul@uakron.edu

Lenny Pizzute Technical Services Associate pizzute@uakron.edu

Patricia Donovan Theatre Manager patric3@uakron.edu

Thomas Stewart Technical Services Associate tstewar@uakron.edu

Vice President for Finance & Administration/CFO

Dominic Cardarelli Senior Accounts Coordinator dc21@uakron.edu Volunteer at EJ Thomas Hall – Make Friends, Make Memories, Make a Difference Would you like to join our volunteer usher program? Our volunteer ushers greet patrons at the door or assist them to their seat while helping to enhance the theatre experience. Ushers generously give their time and talents to support and inspire performing arts at EJ Thomas Hall. Duties include reading tickets, scanning tickets and directing patrons to their seats.

As a team member you see a variety of programs while assisting the public. If you love to share your passion for the arts, we would love to have you on our team! For more information on our volunteer usher program call 330-972-7595 or volunteers@ejthomashall.com

2018-2019 Season

EJ THOMAS HALL

“Volunteer ushering at EJ Thomas Hall rewards me with one interesting experience after another!”—Carol, volunteer usher.

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EJ Thomas Hall is a treasure – for arts, for culture, for The University of Akron, and for the region!

Located on the top floor of the Hall, the Flying Balcony Club is a members-only area that features a full-service bar and hors d’oeuvres on selected evenings. Memberships include such perks as: Reserved or complimentary parking Food and beverage vouchers Access to special club members services Program recognition—and much more!

Last year, Flying Balcony Club memberships generously funded a new ACT curtain—the brightly lit red curtain that patrons see before every performance. The previous curtain was nearly two decades old, torn and faded, and had water damage. Thanks to memberships, patrons will be greeted by a new curtain that will be illuminated prior to every performance with the Flying Balcony Club logo—a special reminder of the group’s generosity.

If you would like to become a member of the Flying Balcony Club contact Margo Ohlson at 330-972-7170 or mohlson@uakron.edu.

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

BRAVO! ($1,500+) Mr. and Mrs. Miklos Gaspar Julia Myers Randy and Mary Jo Worthington STANDING OVATION ($750+) Barbara J. Crucs Thomas J. Dudek Wes and Linda Van Fossen Arlene Nettling

APPLAUSE DuWayne and Dorothy Hansen Dr. Judit Puskas and Dr. Gabor Kaszas Virginia B. Wojno-Forney Michael and Virginia Hoffman Dr. Thomas and Connie Repko

Don rumm studios & gallery 437 CROUSE ST. AKRON 330.253.6268 4

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RAVE ($500+) Dr. James and Barbara Noonan Drs. Thomas J. and Diane Vukovich Molly Plaskett Jay R. Hershey Roger Read Nathan and Karen Mortimer Marcia Adair/Richard Edwards Marianne Uhl Patricia S. Brown Leslie and Kevin Christensen Chuck and Sue Walker The James T. Hindel Family Mr. and Mrs. James W. Trenta Jim and Louise Kuhns Harvey

EJ THOMAS HALL

Membership in the Flying Balcony Club also does something else: It provides EJ Thomas Hall with a vital source of funding. Membership proceeds are used to make improvements at the Hall that otherwise would not be possible.

2018-2019 Season

FLYING BALCONY CLUB MEMBERSHIP

DONDRUMMSTUDIOS.COM

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2018-2019 Season

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2018-2019 Season EJ THOMAS HALL

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

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Live Life Your Way Ohio Living Rockynol is located on 15 acres of beautiful park-like grounds, creating a perfect setting for early morning walks, fresh air, and family and social gatherings by the ponds. )RU RÉŁ FDPSXV DGYHQWXUHV 2KLR /LYLQJ 5RFN\QRO LV ZLWKLQ PLQXWHV RI renowned museums, quality theater and entertainment, professional sporting events, shopping, and numerous golf courses.

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