Matilda July 2023

July 14-23, 2023

ROALD DAHL'S MATILDA THE MUSICAL

Book by Dennis Kelly • Music & Lyrics by Tim Minchin

Orchestrations & Additional Music by Chris Nightingale

The videotaping or other video or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited.

Roald Dahl's Matilda The Musical is presented throught special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com

A Note from the Director

Dear Bookworms,

What an amazing journey this show has been! This beloved story by Roald Dahl comes to life in a beautiful story of friendship, standing up for what you believe in, conquering your (big, fat!) bullies and celebrating the talents that everyone contributes. As Miss Honey would say – every child is special and has such wonderful gifts to share!

All children should be appreciated and celebrated...and that is just what we are doing – on and off stage! These children should be commended for their many talents and accomplishments. Wow – it’s so amazing to see their characters come to life on stage as they work alongside many talented “big kids” and adults.

This beautiful story is elevated with an equally beautiful score that adds fun, flare, comedy, and just the right poignant moments, filled with love and sincerity.

It has been a joy working with these wonderfully brilliant youth and adults. The cast, crew, orchestra, and production team are stellar! You are in for a wonderful heart-warming treat!

Even if you’re little, you can do a lot! You mustn’t let a little thing like "little" stop you...

As Matilda teaches us in this beautiful show: stand strong, commit with all your heart, and thrive in all you do. Enjoy the show!

Sam Frenkel Director

CAST

Matilda Wormwood.................................Sophie Aguilar (7/15, 7/21, 7/23)

.......................................................................Fabiana Merscher (7/14, 7/16, 7/22)

Mrs. Wormwood.............................................................................Suzanne Rainear

Mr. Wormwood..........................................................................Benjamin Fickinger

Michael Wormwood................................................................................Micah Perry

Agatha Trunchbull..................................................................Michael Thompkins

Miss Honey.......................................................................Katie McCool-Bartolotta

Mrs. Phelps...............................................................................................Maeve O'Brien

Lavender....................................................................................................Julia Karlinsey

Bruce Bogtrotter...........................................................................Lawrence Rhodes

Amanda Thripp..........................................................................................Alina Niesen

Nigel..........................................................................................................Gavin Karlinsey

Alice.........................................................................................................Alexandra Block

Erica..............................................................................................................Britt McCarthy

Hortensia......................................................................................................Claire Tanner

Tommie........................................................................................................Alexis Stirling

Children's Entertainer..................................................................................Jenny Ball

Acrobat.....................................................................................................Laura Donnelly

Escapologist...................................................................................Marcalino Senteio

Doctor................................................................................................................Ryan Polito

Rudolpho.......................................................................................................Joseph Beck

Sergei.............................................................................................Vinnie Emilianowicz

Cook............................................................................................Sarah Folsom-Kovarik

Henchmen.......................................................Allison Baron, Rebecca Roberts

Miss Honey's Students:

Sophie Aguilar, Julia Ball, Charlotte Karlinsey, Delaney Markward, Fabiana Merscher, Minna Miklosh, Katie Shapella

Little Kid Ensemble:

Gideon Falk, Spencer Falk, Silvana Merscher, Emmie Wainstein

Big Kid Ensemble:

Jenny Ball, Joseph Beck, Erica Belovich, Alexis Bullock, Danielle Cantor, Laura Donnelly, Betsy Falk, Ellie Fisher, Ali Johnson, Amanda Mahoney, Kit Niesen, Alexandra Ortiz, Skylar Ortiz, Micah Perry, Ryan Polito, Katie Sacco, Maddie Sapp, Danny Shapella, Natalie Starr, Jocelyn Williamson

Adult Ensemble:

Allison Baron, Shirley Bonanni, Vinnie Emilianowicz, Sarah Folsom-Kovarick, Rebecca Roberts, Marcalino Senteio, Megan Shields

Featured Dancers:

Jenny Ball, Danielle Cantor, Laura Donnelly, Marcalino Senteio, Ryan Polito, Katie Sacco, Maddie Sapp, Natalie Starr

MUSICAL NUMBERS

ACT I

Miracle.........................Children's Entertainer, Doctor, Mrs. Wormwood, Mr. Wormwood,

................................................................................................................................................Matilda, Company

Naughty .......................Matilda

Acrobat Story I..........................................................Matilda, Mrs. Phelps, Acrobat, Escapologist

School Song....................................................................................................................................School Kids

Pathetic ...............Miss Honey

The Hammer.....................................................................Miss Trunchbull, Miss Honey, Ensemble

Chokey Chant ..School Kids

Loud...........................................................................Mrs. Wormwood, Rudolpho, Salsa Ensemble

This Little Girl...................................................................................................................................Miss Honey

Acrobat Story II.............................................................................Matilda, Mrs. Phelps, Escapologist

Bruce...................................................................................................................................................School Kids

- There will be a 15-minute intermission -

ACT II

All I Know.........................................................................................................Mr. Wormwood & Michael

When I Grow Up....................................................School Kids, Miss Honey, Matilda, Company

Acrobat Story III.......................................................Matilda, Mrs. Phelps, Acrobat, Escapologist

I'm So Clever...........................................................................................................................Mr. Wormwood

Acrobat Story IV...............................................................Matilda, Escapologist, Featured Singers

The Smell of Rebellion..............................................Miss Trunchbull, School Kids, Miss Honey

Quiet.............................................................................................................................................................Matilda

My House...........................................................................................................Miss Honey, Escapologist

Revolting Children........................................................................................................................School Kids

This Little Girl (Reprise)............................................................................................................................Sergei

Finale ........................Company

PRODUCTION TEAM

Producers...................................................................Brenda Capwell, Barb Cross Director............................................................................................................Sam Frenkel

Assistant Director.....................................................................................Gabi Cherelli

Music Director.........................................................................Lindsay Zimmerman

Choreographer...................................................................................Rebecca Yenser

Orchestra Director...............................................................................Michael Smith

Rehearsal Pianist........................................................................................Sam Frenkel

Stage Manager..........................................................................................Gabi Cherelli

Set Design / Construction Lead..........................................................John Cross

Scenic Artist........................................................................................Christine Wright

Set Decorator...................................................................................................Barb Cross

Special Effects.................................................................................................John Cross

Costume Design.....................................................................................Allison Baron

Costume Assistants..............................Sue Carney, Betsy Falk, Amy Orner

Hair & Makeup Design.............................................Julie Kruk, Kate McShane

Lighting Design.........................................................................................Mike Addice

Lighting Operator...............................................................................Laura Shapella

Projection Operator....................................................................................Zoe Wright

Spot Light Operator................................................................................Gary Bullock

Sound Designer/Operator.................................................................Ryan Kadwill

Sound & Projection Assistant............................................................Rob Wagner

Props...................................................................................................................Emily Cross

Stage Crew...........................Becca Begnaud, John Cross, James Johnson, Siena Johnson, Ashok Mathur, Hope Mauch, Lindsay Zimmerman

Photographer.............................................................................................Gabi Cherelli

Graphic Design...............................................Gabi Cherelli & Christine Furey

Board Liaison.....................................................................................Nicolette Adams

Set Construction / Painting.....................................................Ruthie Anderson, ..............................................................................................John Cross, Ashok Mathur, .................................................................Christine Wright, Cast, Crew, & Families

Box Office......................................................Ashley Lawrence, Michelle Miller

House Manager..............................................................................................Barb Cross

ORCHESTRA

Michael Smith...............................................................................Orchestra Director

Bruce Greenwald........................................................Reed 1 (Clarinet, Alto Sax)

Elisabeth Sibley......................................................................................Reed 1 (Flute)

Donna Higgins...........................Reed 2 (Clarinet, Tenor Sax, Bass Clarinet)

Michael Bromberg Trumpet

Neil Goldberg......................................................................................................Trumpet

Tom Steele.........................................................................................................Trombone

Joshua Kovich...............................................................................................................Bass

David Schwartz................................................................................................Keyboard

Brian Shapella...................................................................................................Keyboard

Jane Roberts.................................................................................................................Cello

David Deratzian.......................................................................................................Guitar

Ken Summers..................................................................................................Percussion

MCT 2022 BOARD OF DIRECTORS:

Kate McShane (President)

Nicolette Adams (Vice President)

Lindsay Zimmerman (Secretary)

Brenda Capwell (Treasurer) - non-board

Barb Cross

John Gray

Katie McCool-Bartolotta

Heather McElhiney

Janice Orner

Rebecca Yenser

MEET THE CAST

Sophie Aguilar (Matilda Wormwood / Miss Honey's Student)

Sophie is a 7th grader at Valley Forge Middle School, and is excited to make her debut at MCT! Some of her performing credits include the following: Patrice in 13! The Musical (CTSS), Jane in Mary Poppins (Quintessence Theatre Group), Amaryllis in The Music Man (SALT Performing Arts), Little Red in Into the Woods Jr. (Valley Forge Middle School), Pugsley in The Addams Family Jr. (Stagelight/SALT). When not performing, Sophie enjoys drawing, singing in chorus, birding, traveling, and spending time at the beach. Sophie would like to thank MCT for this amazing opportunity to perform with this fantastic cast in Matilda. Enjoy the show!

Jenny Ball (Children’s Entertainer / Big Kid Ensemble / Featured Dancer)

Jenny is ecstatic she can still pass as a teenager! This is her 3rd show with MCT and second time performing with her daughter, Julia. When she is not terrorizing little kids on stage, she is terrorizing – er, inspiring students as an advertising professor at Temple University. Thanks to the production staff and cast for making this such an amazing show! Shout out to her son, Keaton, for his willingness to watch another production of Matilda, and to her husband, Tyler, for avoiding the temptation of auditioning for the role of Matilda

Julia Ball (Miss Honey's Student)

Julia has enjoyed being a part of her second musical theater production after appearing in Big Fish at MCT last year. She is a rising 8th grader at Cedarbrook Middle School. In addition to performing, she recently became an award-winning participant in the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science fair competition at Penn State and the Junior Solar Sprint competition at Drexel University. A budding architect, she also likes to draw and play the piano. She thanks her parents for encouraging her in all she does and can’t wait to be on stage again!

MEET THE CAST

Allison Baron (Lead Costumer / Henchman / Adult Ensemble)

Allison is excited to be a part of this wonderful production. This is her 10th show with MCT! Past favorites include: Once Upon a Mattress (Ensemble), and Big Fish (Ensemble). Thank you to her sister for helping her stay busy and creative.

Joseph Beck (Rudolpho / Big Kid Ensemble)

Joseph is so excited to get “LOUD” in his 1st show with MCT! He is a recent graduate of Souderton Area High School, and is off to study Theatre Arts at Point Park University in the fall. His recent roles include: Cosmo in Singin’ in the Rain at Montgomery Theater, and Fester in The Addams Family at Souderton Area High School. Joseph would like to thank the amazing cast and crew of Matilda for making his first MCT experience an incredible one! He’d also like to thank his friends and family for their endless support!

Erica Belovich (Big Kid Ensemble)

Erica is thrilled to be a part of her second show with MCT! When she’s not busy revolting, Erica spends her time adventuring with friends and taking naps with her cat, Cosmo. Erica would like to thank the entire MCT community for making this show possible and giving her a fun way to spend the summer!

MEET THE CAST

Alexandra Block (Alice)

Alexandra is thrilled to be making her MCT debut in Matilda! Her recent credits include 13! The Musical (Archie), Newsies Jr. (Race), Into The Woods Jr. (Baker's Wife), High School Musical (Alison, Cheerleader, Jock, Thespian), A Christmas Story, The Musical (Ralphie Parker), Elf Jr. - The Musical (Charlotte Dennon), Beauty and the Beast, Jr. (Gaston), and Mary Poppins (Valentine). Alex would like to thank her voice instructor, Nick Harmantzis, the cast and crew for such a fun experience, and especially her Mom for her endless support throughout her journey in the performing arts.

Shirley Bonanni (Adult Ensemble)

Shirley is excited to be in her first MCT production! Previously, she was featured in virtual cabarets during the pandemic with ETC and Newtown Arts. Shirley would like to thank the incredibly talented cast and crew for this wonderful experience as well as her family, friends, coworkers, and her vocal coach, Heidi Hayes, for all of their support!

Alexis Bullock (Big Kid Ensemble)

Alexis is excited and thrilled to be in her 2nd show at MCT. She is ecstatic to be in Haverford High School next year as a freshman. She lastly would like to thank her dad, stepmom, and grandfather for supporting her through her acting and academic career.

MEET THE CAST

Danielle Cantor (Big Kid Ensemble / Featured Dancer)

As a lover of unicorns and hater of responsibility, Dani has been preparing for her role as Big Kid for at least 30 years. As her surname suggests, she loves singing and has performed with the Philadelphia Chorus for seven years in addition to multiple MCT productions. She would like to thank her furry sons, Oliver and Pippin, her family, and her friends for helping her climb the trees you get to climb when you’re grown up.

Laura Donnelly (Acrobat / Big Kid Ensemble / Featured Dancer)

Laura is disgusted to be dancing on stage with these maggots. This community theater STAR, and mother of tiktok sensation Fleabag the cat (@fleabewallerbridge/@ fleabagsmom), was last seen in MCT’s productions of Cabaret (Sally Bowles), A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (Vibrata), and Evita (Eva Peron) where there were far fewer children. While she’s enjoyed working with the production team and fellow adults, she spent most rehearsals doing as the Trunchbull suggests: imagining a world with no children ;) Be sure to catch her as Sibella in the child-free production of A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder in the fall here with MCT!

Vinnie Emilianowicz (Sergei / Adult Ensemble)

Matilda is Vinnie's third show after deciding to pursue theater as part of his adult life! He is thrilled for the opportunity to invest time in his art. In his youth Vinnie enjoyed a lot of acting, but health and financial concerns drew him away. So, he focused on building his career. Now he returns to the stage happy and healthy, supported with deep love by Mark, his husband of 4 years, and his family.

MEET THE CAST

Betsy Falk (Big Kid Ensemble)

Betsy is ecstatic to be in her first production with MCT! Betsy has a degree in Theater from DeSales University, and has worked in both professional and community theatre for most of her life. Her favorite roles include: Mabel in The Pirates of Penzance, and Rosemary in How to Succeed. She is currently the Production Manager at Monkey Boys Productions. She would like to thank her parents for supporting her long awaited return to the stage, and her two sons for joining her. Congrats to the cast and crew on a wonderful show!

Gideon Falk (Little Kid Ensemble)

Gideon is in the fourth grade, and this is his very first time in a musical. Gideon was a featured singer at his school's choral concert this spring, and also studies guitar. He enjoys reading, writing and illustrating his own books, building with legos and K'Nex, and listening to music, especially jazz and Disney songs. Gideon wants to thank his mom for making him try something new, and his family for coming to see the show.

Spencer Falk (Little Kid Ensemble)

Spencer is thrilled to be a part of his very first show along with his brother, Gideon, and mom, Betsy. Spencer is in the second grade and has participated in reader's theater projects at school and enjoys singing, acting out stories, reading, art, legos, and puppetry. He wants to thank his mom for helping him with his audition, and his brother for always making him laugh.

MEET THE CAST

Ben Fickinger (Mr. Wormwood)

Ben is excited to be back on the stage for his second show with MCT. Previously, Ben has been seen in the Ensemble for MCT's, How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, as well as in Villanova Student Theatre's, All My Sons, as Joe Keller , and as Paul Sycamore in You Can't Take it With You. Outside of theater, Ben spends his time working in Philadelphia's thriving film and television industry, as well as overbaking bread and struggling to complete crossword puzzles. Ben would like to thank the entire cast and crew of Matilda for providing a much-needed space to have fun and perform theater with friends.

Ellie Fisher (Big Kid Ensemble)

Ellie is pleased to be back at MCT for the second summer in a row. Previous favorite roles include: Middle Elsa in Frozen, Snoopy in You're a Good Man Charlie Brown and Turtle in A Year With Frog and Toad. Ellie is a rising 8th grader at The Center for Performing and Fine Arts (CPFA), and when not at school can usually be found in a swimming pool practicing or competing with her synchronized swimming team. Ellie wishes to thank Sam and the entire production team for this opportunity. Special shout out to her Aunt Gabs for being the best. Love to her family and friends!

Sarah Folsom-Kovarik (Cook / Adult Ensemble)

Sarah is a native of Tallahassee, FL. She has performed throughout high school with Young Actors Theatre, then studied music at FSU. She’s excited to perform her fourth show at MTC, after previous shows Hunchback... (Choir), The Addams Family (Alice), and It’s A Wonderful Life (Clara Oddbody). Other favorite roles include: Bucks County G&S Society’s (Fiametta), and The Sorcerer (Constance), Savoy Company’s Ruddigore (Zorah), and Ghostlight Theater's Into the Woods (Cinderella's Mother). She also currently sings with The Choristers, Bucks County Choral Society, and The Philadelphia Chorus, and has sung in many local cabarets (BCGSS, Savoy, Philadelphia Chorus, Everybody’s Theater Company).

MEET THE CAST

Ali Johnson (Big Kid Ensemble)

Ali is over the moon to be in her 7th MCT performance. You might recognize her from Frozen Jr., Seussical Jr., Beauty and the Beast, and The Little Mermaid. As she enters her freshman year at Spring-Ford High School, she would like to thank her family for always supporting her. She would also like to add a special thanks to the cast and crew for making this a wonderful experience, to Spider-Man for looking out for the little guy, and to Zendaya for also looking out for the little guy (Tom Holland).

Charlotte Karlinsey (Miss Honey's Student)

Charlotte is so excited to be in her first theater production! Though only 8, she has previously been on stage as a dancer with Pennsylvania Academy of Dance Arts, and as a piano player with The Music Depot. After seeing every show her older brother and sister have been in, she is very proud to be sharing the Matilda stage with Gavin and Julia. She would like to thank her family for their encouragement, and the production team for getting her a spot in Miss Honey's class!

Gavin Karlinsey (Nigel)

Gavin is excited to participate in his 4th theater production, his 3rd with MCT. He is completing 7th grade at Arcola, and enjoys sports, video games, and Marvel movies. He plays piano and drums, and has participated in several live and virtual performances. He is looking forward to his role as Nigel, and is happy that he has some solo singing lines. He is very proud of his youngest sister, Charlotte, for being in the show, and knows she will do great! He also wants his family to know he appreciates their support.

MEET THE CAST

Julia Karlinsey (Lavender)

Julia is 10 years old, and this will be her 4th show with MCT. She was a Bird Girl in Seussical Jr., a part of the ensemble in Big Fish, and Young Elsa in Frozen Jr., but being Lavender in Matilda is her favorite role yet! She would like to thank her family for always supporting her, and she is grateful to Sam and Lindsay for giving her this opportunity. Yesss!!!

Amanda Mahoney (Big Kid Ensemble)

Amanda is excited to be performing again with MCT! Before playing a Big Kid in Matilda, she was apart of MCT’s production of City of Angels (Mallory/Avril). She would like to thank everyone involved with Matilda for making this summer one to remember, and her family and friends for always being there throughout this journey.

Delaney Markward (Miss Honey's Student)

Delaney is thrilled to appear on stage in her first MCT production, Matilda. Delaney’s favorite roles include: Mowgli from Jungle Book Jr., Young Anna in Frozen Jr., and Molly in Annie Jr. A special thank to the cast and crew of Matilda for making this such a wonderful experience. “Just because I find myself in this story, it doesn’t mean that everything is written for me”.

MEET THE CAST

Britt McCarthy (Erica)

Britt is excited to debut on the MCT mainstage in Matilda. She loves to sing and dance, and has also participated in Firebird's summer camp production, Lion King. When Britt is not on stage, she is at Revolution Cheer Gym with the Penn Elite All Stars practicing her elite cheer competition skills (dancing, stunting, and tumbling). She is thankful for her family and friends who have supported her along the way and to the MCT cast and crew for providing a welcoming environment.

Katie McCool-Bartolotta (Miss Honey)

Katie is thrilled to be back on the MCT stage. She currently serves on MCT's Board of Directors, and has been an extremely proud member of this fantastic organization for the past 15 years. She has spent a lot of her time in the past several years directing musicals at a local high school, so she is beyond excited to get back on stage in one of her dream roles. When she's not pretending to be an elementary school teacher on stage, she's actually a high school English teacher in real life. Katie would like to thank the wonderful production staff, cast, crew, and orchestra, for giving their time, talent, and dedication to this incredibly sweet and special show. Finally, she would like to thank her amazing family, friends, and husband, Matt, for always being her biggest fans.

Fabiana Merscher (Matilda Wormwood / Miss Honey's Student)

Fabiana is thrilled to be in her first Main Stage production at MCT! She is 12 years old in 6th grade at Spring-Ford SD. Her most recent shows include: Annie Jr. (Molly), Matilda Jr. (Matilda), Guys and Dolls (Adelaide) in Spring Ford intermediate school, and Lion King (Nala) at Genesius Theater. Fabiana wants to thank the cast and crew at MCT for this wonderful experience as well as her friends and family. Special thanks to her parents for always supporting her and, Lori, her vocal coach, for everything she teaches her!

MEET THE CAST

Silvana Merscher (Little Kid Ensemble)

Silvana is excited to be back for her 2nd show at MCT! She is 8 years old in 3rd grade at Upper Providence Elementary School. Her most recent shows include: Willy Wonka Kids (Matilda), We Are Monsters (KC) at UPE stagelight, and Frozen Jr. (Young Anna) at MCT! Silvana wants to thank everyone involved in this amazing show. She especially wants to thank her parents, friends and family members for always supporting her!

Minna Miklosh (Miss Honey's Student)

Minna is in 7th grade, and very excited for her first performance with MCT. Minna has previously performed as Middle Elsa, and Miss Hannigan in Mater Dei Catholic School’s musicals, Frozen Jr. and Annie Jr. She is very grateful for her supportive friends and family, and can't wait for the next show!

Alina Niesen (Amanda Thripp)

Alina is excited to be on the big stage, in the gorgeous building, with the chandeliers! This is her fourth show with MCT. Previous roles include: Castle Attendant (Frozen, Jr.) and Narrator (Into the Woods, Jr.). She loves arts and music, taking care of her bearded dragon, Sandstorm, and is a black belt in karate -- so hands off the pigtails. She wants to thank her mom for joining her on-stage -- she thinks it's cool, and her mom will likely remind her she said that for all eternity.

MEET THE CAST

Kit Niesen (Scary Big Kid / Big Kid Ensemble)

Kit is re-learning how to be on-stage after being away from it for four years -- she was busy directing eight plays and musicals at Great Valley High School. She has learned she can still pass for twelve, and can add "Scary Big Kid" to her past child roles as Little Sally (Urinetown), Alice (Alice in Wonderland) and Amy (Little Women). She would like to thank the production team, and her daughter for all the fun they had these past few months!

Maeve O'Brien (Mrs. Phelps)

Maeve is excited to be part of another MCT production! She was recently seen in How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, and Twelfth Night, and she was the costume designer for Big Fish, How to Succeed, and First Date. She would like to thank her family and friends for their support, and the cast and crew for all their hard work.

Alexandra Ortiz (Big Kid Ensemble)

Alexandra is excited to be in her 8th show with MCT! Some of her favorite roles were: Belle in Beauty and the Beast Jr., Horton in Seussical Jr., and Scarecrow in Wizard of Oz Jr. She would like to thank her family for their love and support ,and is having so much fun with this wonderful cast and crew.

MEET THE CAST

Skylar Ortiz (Big Kid Ensemble)

Skylar is thrilled to be back with her 9th MCT show after her first year at Belmont University! Her favorite MCT roles include: Young Fiona in Shrek, and the Baker’s Wife in Into the Woods Jr. She is so excited to be working with such a talented and hardworking cast, and wants to thank the production team for making Matilda an experience she won’t forget!

Micah Perry (Michael Wormwood / Big Kid Ensemble)

Micah is extremely excited for his first show with MCT, and has experience in two other shows being, The Little Mermaid Jr., in which he played Sebastian. The other show was High School Musical Jr., where he played Chad. Micah absolutely loves music in general, and especially loves to sing, and play piano and saxophone. He also loves puzzles, like Rubik’s cubes. Overall, he’s extremely happy that he was able to take part in Matilda this year!

Ryan Polito (Doctor / Big Kid Ensemble / Featured Dancer)

Ryan is excited to be in his second show with MCT, and to be revisiting one of his favorite shows. Some of his favorite precious roles include: Gabe (First Date), Jehan (Hunchback of Notre Dame), Doody (Grease), and Mr. Wormwood (Matilda). He would like to thank the cast for making this show such a great experience.

MEET THE CAST

Suzanne Rainear (Mrs. Wormwood)

Suzanne is thrilled to be back on the MCT stage. Most recently, she was seen in MCT’s production of How to Succeed (Hedy LaRue). Next up, Suzanne is putting her choreographer’s hat back on for NCT’s fall production, Oliver. Some of Suzanne’s favorite past theater credits include: Pippin, West Side Story (Anita), Sweeney Todd (Johanna), The Producers (Ulla), Jesus Christ Superstar, The Who’s: Tommy (Sally), Urinetown (Little Becky Two Shoes), and Cabaret (Texas). By day, she plays a Consumer Admin Assistant at a local bank. She would like to thank all of her friends and family for their continued love and support. Shout out to her Univest fam, her ever supportive parents, and her wonderful boyfriend, Jesse.

Lawrence Rhodes (Bruce Bogtrotter)

Lawrence is thrilled to be making his debut with MCT. He loves musicals, and has been part of ensemble casts in Matilda, Annie, and Mary Poppins. He recently played Tommy Boy in Newsies Jr., and Randy Parker in A Christmas Story: The Musical at UMLY, and Tiny Tim in the Footlighters production of A Christmas Carol.

Rebecca Roberts (Henchman / Adult Ensemble)

Rebecca is grateful to share the stage again with her daughter Ali. Last spring Rebecca was on the Ursinus stage as Tracey in Sweat. Over the past 10 years she has been part of MCT, both on stage (Evita, Shrek, Oliver, and others), and behind (co-producing the past two youth productions, serving on the Scholarship Committee, and many stage crews). She is an historical interpreter with the Trappe Historical Society, and a Biology Professor at Ursinus College. She gives big hugs of gratitude to her MCT family, and never-ending thanks to her family for supporting her passion for the arts.

MEET THE CAST

Katie

Katie is thrilled to be back with MCT for the third time. You might have seen her previously as Young Jenny Hill in Big Fish last summer, or as Smitty in How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying last fall. She hopes you enjoy the show, and remember that there's a place you are sent if you haven't been good - and it's made of spikes and wood. If you don't keep that in mind, you're done kid. You're finished.

Maddie

Maddie is pleased as punch to be a part of Matilda this summer! This is her fourth show with MCT, although she has used theater as a creative outlet for many years. Maddie is a full time nanny, and her other hobbies include reading, macrame, baking, and other crafty things! She would like to thank the cast, crew, and pit for dedicating so much of their time to put on this wonderful show.

Marss is so glad to be back on the Shannondell stage, and sharing it with the most talented kids he has ever performed with. He was last seen as Robin in Something Rotten! with Willow Manor Players, and feels like he was having a renaissance of his own by getting back in theater after a long hiatus. His past favorites include: Big Fish, The Addams Family, and The Rocky Horror Show. Marss would like to thank everyone that has come to the show, and supporting live theater.

Sacco (Big Kid Ensemble / Featured Dancer)

Sapp (Big Kid Ensemble / Featured Dancer)

Marcalino Senteio (Escapologist / Adult Ensemble / Featured Dancer)

MEET THE CAST

Danny Shapella (Big Kid Ensemble)

Danny was last seen as King Triton in Indian Crest's Little Mermaid Jr. Some of Danny's favorite roles include: Michael in Peter Pan, Young Will in Big Fish, The King in Frozen Jr., and a Wickersham in Suessical Jr. Danny is 14 years old and in 8th grade, and enjoys Boy Scouts and baseball. He is super excited to be part of this show, and would like to thank the Directors and Producers for all of the hardwork they do. He'd also like the thank his whole family for their help and support!

Katie Shapella (Miss Honey's Class)

Katie is thrilled to be back for her 7th MCT show! Favorite credits include: Ariel (The Little Mermaid Jr.) , Sharpay Evans (High School Musical Jr.), Jojo (Seussical Jr.), Jane (Peter Pan). She also was a runner up in a local vocal competition. Thank you to the entire production team and cast & crew, for making this production possible! Love to family.

Megan Shields (Adult Ensemble)

Megan is excited to be on the MCT stage for the first time. Her favorite previous performances include: Hunchback of Notre Dame at the Barn Playhouse, and Sister Act at Player’s Club of Swarthmore. Megan is a kindergarten teacher in Bucks County, and loves teaching her students all about musical theater! She would like to thank the cast and crew for all the laughs and memories. She hopes you enjoy the show!

MEET THE CAST

Natalie Starr (Big Kid Ensemble / Featured Dancer)

Natalie is so excited to be back at MCT for another summer show! She was previously seen in How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, and Big Fish at MCT. Outside of theater, Natalie enjoys crochet, reading, and cuddling with her cats. Special thanks to the Big Fish Besties!

Alexis Stirling ( Tommie)

Alexis is thrilled to be back on stage with MCT! Previously, Alexis played middle Anna in Frozen Jr. (MCT), and Royal Page in Descendants (Ohev Players). Alexis began in the world of acting through classes, which she still takes, at Lights, Camera, Acting (LCA). She also enjoys voice lessons (Megs Voice Studio) as well as dance lessons. Alexis is excited to begin 6th grade next year, and continue growing as an actress. She would like to thank the incredible cast and crew for this wonderful experience, as well as her friends and family for their continued support.

Claire Tanner (Hortensia)

Claire is thrilled to be back on the MCT stage in her second time doing Matilda! Claire is 14 years old, and will be attending Conestoga High School as a freshman in the fall. Her recent theater credits include: 13! The Musical (Simon) at Community Through Song & Stage, Into the Woods Jr. (Jack’s Mother) at Valley Forge Middle School, High School Musical (Kratnoff) at SALT Performing Arts, and A Christmas Carol (Ghost of Christmas Future) at Footlighters Theater. Claire would like to thank her family for supporting her and her voice teacher, Nick Harmantzis, for helping her on her vocal journey. She is also extremely grateful to Sam, Lindsay, Becky, and the rest of the amazing production team for giving her this wonderful opportunity!

MEET THE CAST

Michael Thompkins (Agatha Trunchbull)

Michael is overjoyed to play this iconic role in MCT’s Matilda! Playing Miss Trunchbull has shown Michael to be determined, focused, and attentive, all while snuffing out the “Smell Of Rebellion” on stage. Michael’s other credits include: MCT’s First Date (Reggie/Stone Guy/Aaron’s Future Son), and Big Fish (Fisherman/General Patterson) along with Ursinus College’s production of Sweat (Brucie). Since joining in summer 2022, Michael has been extremely thankful for his MCT community and is honored to perform with them once again for his oneyear anniversary show!

Emmie Wainstein (Little Kid Ensemble)

Emmie is eleven and will be attending PALCS’s Center for Performing and Fine Arts in the fall. She has been involved in theater since 2019, and has participated in several shows around the area including Barley Sheaf Players, Stagelight, and Springer Studios. She is beyond excited to be in her first mainstage musical. Emmie would like to thank her family, and the Matilda production team for providing her with this incredible opportunity. It’s been amazing getting to know and work with such talented people, and she cannot wait for you to see the show!

Jocelyn Williamson (Big Kid Ensemble)

Jocelyn is most excited to perform in her first every MCT show. Jocelyn previously played the role of Miss Hannigan in Annie Jr., Young Elsa in Frozen Jr., and was part of the ensemble in Mulan Jr. Jocelyn is a rising 8th grader at Mater Dei Catholic School, and enjoys being a part of the school choir, chimes, and theater program. Jocelyn would like to thank her family, specifically her Mom and Dad for always supporting her.

MEET THE CREATIVE TEAM

Gabi

Cherelli (Assistant Director / Stage Manager / Photographer)

Usually found navigating set pieces backstage in the dark; Gabi is excited to finally be allowed in front of the stage in her new role as Assistant Director! But don’t get too used to seeing her at the front of the house...she still has to manage the stage. In fact, that loud noise you heard was probably her (sorry!). None-the-less she enjoyed the short time she got to spend out in the light and getting to know this incredibly talented cast. Gabi wants to thank: Sam, Lindsay and Becky for giving her this opportunity, her goddaughter/niece Ellie Rose for the biggest pain in her tuchus (and doing another show with her), and Peg Cherelli for being the best friend and now angel, that she’s ever had. ♥

Sam Frenkel (Director)

Sam is excited to be at the helm of this wonderful summer production of Roald Dahl’s, Matilda. Sam last directed Frozen Jr. in October 2022 for MCT’s Fall youth show. In addition, Sam recently appearing as Amos Calloway in MCT’s 2022 production of Big Fish. Sam has also directed, and music directed numerous musicals in the Montgomery County area including: The Addams Family (MCT), Godspell (Lansdale Catholic HS), and The Music Man (Spring-Ford 5th and 6th Grade Music Theater Program). Sam would like to thank Lindsay, Becky, Gabi, Barb, Brenda, John, Christine, Allison, and the entire cast, crew, and production teams. We have an amazing show, and I am thankful for each and every one of you!

Rebecca Yenser (Choreographer)

Rebecca is delighted to return for her tenth show with MCT. She received her BA degree from Penn State University in Theater/Dance Performance. She is grateful to Sam and Lindsay for the opportunity to work on a fun and challenging show. Rebecca would like to thank her husband, Dustin, for his continued and unwavering support.

Lindsay Zimmerman (Music Director)

Lindsay is excited to have had the opportunity to teach all these revolting children this amazing and challenging music! Lindsay was recently seen on stage as Rona Lisa Peretti in ...Spelling Bee (Sine Timore), Sandra Bloom in Big Fish (MCT), and Maria in Twelfth Night (MCT). Lindsay would like to thank the cast, crew, and pit for their hard work and dedication to this show! Love and thanks to her family for their unending support, and the Matilda team (Sam, Becky, Gabi, Allison, Barb, Brenda, and John) for being an absolute dream team!

ANNUAL GIVING DONORS

Friends ($20-$99)

Steve Arcidiacono

Linda Clark

Janice and Ken Orner

Supporters ($100-$499)

John and Barb Cross

Steve and Yvonne Montgomery

Patrons ($500-$2499)

John & Kathryn Gray

Johnson & Johnson

Deb Schrager

Bill and Kate McShane

You have a role at MCT.

MCT is an all-volunteer non-profit 501(C)(3) theater company that has produced high quality live theater in Montgomery County for over forty years. This season, we will present three musicals, one stage play, and one youth theater production. We create outstanding shows that entertain our audiences, provide a creative outlet to the community, and educate people of all ages about the theater arts.

Support our mission by becoming a member, becoming a patron, and telling a friend about the show you saw today. Word of mouth is the most effective way that we attract new audiences.

Our members create costumes, design sets, source props, devise lighting and sound plans, perform, manage our finances, create marketing plans, and much more. We welcome new volunteers at every skill level and would love to tell you more about how to get involved at MCT!

Our patrons support our shows through ticket sales, direct donations, employer matching, annual giving, corporate sponsorships, and planned gifts. We gratefully accept cash and check donations at every performance.

To contribute online, please use this link to donate: https://my.cheddarup.com/c/become-a-mct-donor

To contribute by mail, please send your donation to: MCT

PO Box 26144

Collegeville, PA 19426

IT Networking Voice Cybersecurity

A r e y o u w o r r i e d a b o u t " b a d a c t o r s " p l a y i n g a r o u n d i n y o u r n e t w o r k ?

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B r i t t a n y , w e a r e s o p r o u d o f y o u i n y o u r r o l e i n M a t i l d a ! W e a d m i r e t h e c o n f i d e n c e y o u w e a r s o w e l l ! K e e p s h i n i n g ! W e l o v e y o u s o m u c h !

D a d d y , M o m m y , B r i a n n a , a n d M a d d y

Best of Luck Minna!

- Fabiana and SilvanaBreak a leg!!!

We are so proud of you; we love watching you work so hard at something you love so much.

We are so proud of you; we love watching you work so hard at something you love so much.

It makes us so happy to see you pursue your dreams.

It makes us so happy to see you pursue your dreams.

You are awesome, and we love you so much!

- Mama, Dad, and Your Entire Family -

MCT would like to thank Variety Club for the use of the Recreation Hall to rehearse Matilda. We appreciate their generosity and value our ongoing partnership with them.

Founded 85 years ago, Variety – the Children’s Charity of the Delaware Valley has a mission to enrich the lives of children and young adults with disabilities through social, educational, and vocational programs that nurture independence and self-confidence and prepare them for life.

TO THE CAST & CREW BREAK A LEG!!! DEAN SOLTES

So proud of you Delaney!

Love, Mom, Dad, Maddie and Sami

So proud of you, Delaney! Love Mom, Dad, Maddie, and Sami

Love, Mom, Dad, Ben, Liv, and Jake Emmie to the entire cast Congr a t u l a

tions

Emmie Wainstein to the entire cast of Matilda especially...

Love, NONA (Your biggest fan!)

Jocelyn –

Jocelyn – Way to go “Big Kid”! We always love to see you on stage and are so proud of you! Keep shining and doing what you love to do! We Love You! Mom & Dad

Way to go “Big Kid”! We always love to see you on stage and are so proud of you! Keep shining and doing what you love to do! We

& Dad

Delaney and Minna - We are so proud & love to see you perform together. using your gifts to bring joy to others. Keep on shining! The Williamsons

Jocelyn, Delaney and MinnaWe are so proud, and love to see you perform together. Keep using your gifts to bring joy to others. Keep on shining!

Jocelyn, Delaney and Minna - We are so proud & love to see you perform together. using your gifts to bring joy to others. Keep on shining! The Williamsons

Minna We are so proud & love to see you perform together. bring joy to others. Keep on shining! The Williamsons PreK3

493

- The Williamsons

SPECIAL THANKS:

Buckingham Friends School

Shirley Bonanni

Stephanie Crispell

Betsy Falk

Christine Hayward

Suzanne Rainear

Loretta Rurode

Shannondell

November 3 - 12, 2023

Shannondell Performing Arts Theater