MONARCH
FALL EDITION
2017
SPOTLIGHT
Shakespeare’s
The Comedy of Errors September 30 & October 1
5pm
โ We meet the nicest people by accident.โ
Ariana Bucio Class of 2017
Gaby Bucio Class of 2020
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Drew & Corinne Adams Beverly Alexander Gregory Allen Mark & Kimberle Banta David and Nicole Barry Joel Bartlett Dana Barton Medhat Bechay Mary & Todd Beld Janet Bellamy Keri Bello Katherine Bermudez-Huie Dana & James Binford Lene Brooks Margaret Brown Scott Brown Jeffrey Bundy Gregory Carson Richard Carroll Wayne Casey Cynthia E Cattern The Chamberlain Family Lisa Chorbagian Kelly Clark Clark Commercial Development Asunta Collazo Kayla Constandse Frank Conway Tom and Maeve Corbett-Browne Gary Coronado Carol M Cox The Curley Family The Dang Family Alison & JT Daniels The DeLong Family George Demos Jesse & Mike Ellison The Elsenpeter Family Vicky Espinoza Abel Estrada The Fancher Family Steve Farley Tony Ferrero Mark & Lony Fiduccia Rebecca Fife Ted & Beckie Flati Julian Galindo Yeni Gil
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Patrons of the Arts GFS Marketing, Inc. Nicole Matar Gina & Jon-Eric Santanello The Matlock Group Russell & Kim Godin Nicholas G. McCutcheon Lawrence Goodkind The McGee Family Jacqueline Gray The McIntosh Family Gustavo Guillen Dennis McKee Dwight Hanson Cary Lee McIerran Greg & Lisa (Bartholomy) Hendey Michelle Menzia Louie and Bita Hernandez Cindy Millsap Zarate Tracey Hessen Fiaz Mohammed Philip Hiestand Christine M. Monge The Hinz Family Jim and Elizabeth Moos Timothy Hirota Mary Ellen & Matthew Moschetti Hockenbury Family Hitta Mosesman Mr. & Mrs. Aaron Hodgdon The Mulholland Family Debra Hoffmeyer Grizelda Navarro David and Beth Hopkins Kathleen Nazionale Julie and Mark Hughes Cate Neushauser Mark and Joanne Hulme Kimberly Neuhauser Melissa B. Jacobson Mark Nialis Sylvia Jaques Roger and Michelle Nieves Lawrence Jean John Otters Joe Jimenez The Park Family The Josten Family Megan Parks The Kawabe Family Arnold and Teresa (Clare) Pinkston Robert Kessler Manuel Porto Carmina Kissinger Vince and Shannon Pozzuoli Tiffany Klarin Peter Pulizzi Maureen Kosinski Mateo Ramirez Ralph C. Kuhen Albert Rasch Stephen D. Lamb Rental Bootique Claudia Lapkin Reunion Kitchen + Drink Elisabeth Leandro Blake Ribisi Rick Ledesma Rosalia Rimicci Stephan Lee Teodora Rios Shelly L. Leeson Gabriel Rivas Jennifer and Channing Lefebvre The Rojek Family Alana Lowenberg Michael Rood Deanna Lowrey Angelo J. Ruta Christine Ludovico Jose and Cynthia Salazar Julie Maglione JA Salazar Construction and Supply Co. Kara Marks The Salcedo Family Brian Marsh Geoffrey Sando
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We are eternally grateful to the patrons above for their support over the years - you ignite our artistry
Online: www.materdei.org/performingartstix Phone: (714) 957-3784 - Mon-Fri 10:00am-3:00pm
HOW TO ORDER TICKETS
Walk-up sales: Walk-up sales may be completed at the Performing Arts ticket window located at the Monarch Pavilion Mon-Fri 10:00am-3:00pm, or one hour prior to every performance on and off the Mater Dei campus. Receiving Tickets: Your tickets will be sent directly to your email upon purchase to print at home or present on your mobile device. Should you have any issues, please contact the Performing Arts Office.
what’s inside Patrons of the Arts…………………….. 4 Letter from the Director….……………. 7 Upcoming Events…….………………11 The Comedy of Errors Program………..13 Alumni Spotlight: Hey, Alexa…….…. 20 Student Spotlight: Double Trouble.…. 24 Performing Arts Faculty and Staff..……26 13
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letter from the director… Welcome back to another terrific year of artistry here at Mater Dei High School! Although the hot summer days continue on,
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we are hard at work building young artists of integrity through the mediums of choral and vocal music, dance, instrumental music and theatre. With nearly half of the campus involved in the performing arts, we are broadening what it means to be a Monarch a charting a course for a resurgence in the arts not just on the corner of Bristol and
We believe that arts transform people into more complete versions of themselves by awakening creativity, fostering collaboration, and enlivening passion and determination.
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Edinger, but throughout our local community and Southern California.
And we are
excited to announce that we have been hard at work ensuring that remains the case by embarking on a capital campaign for a state of the art performing arts center to be built in the footprint of the Monarch Pavilion. With over 55,000 square feet of instructional space including wings dedicated to all disciplines and an incredible 800 seat theater, this Monarch Masterpiece promises to match the undeniable caliber of our student artists. Our singers, dancers, ringers and players will finally have a place to call home and you, our esteemed patrons, will have a place to truly appreciate the talents of your sons and daughters. We will continue to make you aware of developments in this great pursuit and hope you will join us when the time comes in supporting the arts at Mater Dei for today and for tomorrow. Until then, we invite you to enjoy the many performances and events the Performing Arts Department has to offer. From the roots of Shakespeare tonight to our final event in May, the effervescent Coffeehouse, there is something for everyone. All this is possible only with the superior instruction from our fine directors and instructors. Your students are benefiting not only from great teaching, but also the access to professionals in their field. In addition, with the introduction of the Mater Dei MasterClass Series, your young artists will be introduced to college directors, community and professional theatre directors, casting agents and producers with the intention of bolstering their arts education, as well as opening the possibilities of scholarships and casting opportunities. So please, pull up a lawnchair, embrace this fine fall eve and enjoy one of Shakespeare’s more farcical works The Comedy of Errors. This work carries a great theme that we all in the performing arts embrace: identity. We believe that arts transform people into more complete versions of themselves by awakening creativity, fostering collaboration, and enlivening passion and determination. By finding themselves, they find how we all belong together in faith, hope and love. Thank you once more and have a great night!
Scott Melvin Executive Director of Performing Arts
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Mangia Mangia Restaurant Reviews: Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind, authentic Italian restaurant, owned and operated by two brothers from Sicily. Giuseppe and Pietro Cefalu have been making waves in Huntington Beach for years now. While the setting and the site are casual, the food is classic Italian and the service warm and friendly. The Cefalus proudly serve only the freshest seafood (selected daily), an array of pastas with mouthwatering sauces, as well as signature eggplant dishes and a famous calamari fritti. This bustling favorite with locals is sure to please. Reservations are recommended for parties of four or more. After culinary school in Italy, the Cefalu brothers worked in the restaurant industry for years, Pietro as Head Chef of some of the finest restaurants in Italy. In the early 1980's the brothers brought their authentic Italian cuisine to America, Giuseppe working on the West Coast, until finally opening Mangia Mangia in 1987. You could easily drown yourself in Marinara at Mangia Mangia, but keep an eye on the beloved restaurant's daily specials and you'll find all manner of Sicilian favorites. Look for the bucatini with roasted cauliflower, pine nuts and raisins that hews as closely to North Africa as it does to the Italian coast. Or opt for the swordfish with grilled eggplant that's dressed with bright, acidic citrus. When you walk in, the smell of garlic makes your mouth water. One of the two Sicilian brothers greets you at the door. The place is a typical mom and pop restaurant, nothing too flashy other than the flat screen playing tour videos of Italy.
Mangia Mangia Italian Restaurant 16079 Goldenwest St Huntington Beach, CA 92647 714 841-8887 Open Monday-Sunday for Dinner Monday- Friday for Lunch We take reservations for parties of 4 or more
HERE’S TO
NEIGHBORS The ones who look after each other — always ready to lend a hand. Kindred spirits with a will to make their community a better place. Neighbors being neighborly. And that’s a glorious thing.
Proud sponsor of the Mater Dei High School Performing Arts, a great neighbor.
what’s next December 3 - 5:00pm
Haunted Eve
Instrumental Fall Concert
October 28 - 7:00pm October 8 - 6:00pm Monarch Pavilion Mater Dei High School $30 - $20 - $15 Come to the Shortsfest Bar-B-Q Bonanza! An evening full of scenes, songs and suprises. Pre-Order tickets now for a night of Food and Fun! Drama and Dessert! Bid on silent auction and raffle items!
Mary’s Grotto Mater Dei High School $5
A spooktacular eve awaits you hosted by the instrumentalists of Mater Dei. Bring a lawn-chair, wear your favorite costume and enjoy these haunting favorites from the past and today!
Mary’s Grotto Mater Dei High School
Free Admission with Unwrapped Toy The arts come together to celebrate the birth of Christ in this live Nativity and Holiday Celebration. Come early for crafts, candle dipping and fresh pressed cider. Bring an unwrapped toy to support the Monarchs 4 Marines and make this Christmas special for the families of those who protect us.
Choir Fall Concert December 8-10 Memorial Hall Chapman University $70 - $25 - $15
October 15 - 7:30pm
November 9-12
Our Lady Queen of Angels Church Newport Beach
Monarch Pavilion Mater Dei High School
Free Admission
$25 - $15 - $10
Join the 350+ Singers and Ringers of the Mater Dei Choral Program as they usher in the 2017-18 school year in song.
Experience this classic drama as never before with one all male cast and one all female cast see it twice and you be the judge!
Join our King and Queen and the rest of the Royal Court as we go back in time to celebrate the Birth of Christ with wonderful music, fine dining and great company! We look forward to seeing you at this great Mater Dei tradition - Huzzah!!
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MATER DEI THEATRE ARTS PROUDLY PRESENTS
Director
Mr. Joe Alanes
Special Acknowledgements MD PRESIDENT…..……………………………..………Mr. Patrick Murphy
Performance Coach Mr. Danny Campbell Technical Director Mr. Andrew Roberts Producer Mr.Scott Melvin Production Manager Ms.Alexi Thomas Assistant Director Sandra Muro Stage Manager Lia Weed Assistant Stage Manager Louis DiBernardo Dramaturge Alexis Rangell-Onwuegbuzia
MD PRINCIPAL…..……………………………….……… Ms. Frances Clare VP BUSINESS SERVICES…..……….…….………………. Mr. David Taylor VP ADVANCEMENT.……………………………………..Mrs. Erica Adams MD ASSISTANT PRINCIPALS……………………. Mrs. Geri Campeau ’87 Mr. Lee Gaeta Mrs. Audrey Ganey EXEC. DIR., PERFORMING ARTS……..…………………. Mr. Scott Melvin
Special Thanks Mr. Barsuglia and the Events and Media Services Team, Mr. Avendano, Mrs. Monge, Mr. and Mrs. McNally and MEI, Ms. Spencer, MDHS Theatre Committee Members, Mr. Ritter and the Facilities Team, Mr. Tom Duffy, All Crew Members and All Cast Parents (thanks for the food!). And thanks to our Theatre Moms, Diana Mendoza and Kim Rangell for always being so amazing and willing to help with the Theatre Arts Program! Special thanks to the Theatre Angel Club Members for their generosity.
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Cast
Crew
(In order of appearance) Duke Solinus..……….…….……………. Gwen Smith Egeon……….…………………… Jonathan Lefebvre Jailer………………….……………………Leah Sparks Antipholus of Syracuse…………..MoniQue RangellOnwuegbuzia Dromio of Syracuse….….…………….. Grace Danon First Merchant…………………Naea Lautenschlager Dromio of Ephesus.…..…………. Kelli Chamberlain Adriana…………….…….………..…. Kalusha Brutlag Luciana……………………..…Anne-Marie Verkuylen Luce…………….……………..…..……….Kelsey West Antipholus of Ephesus……….………Alexis RangellOnwuegbuzia Angelo……..…………………….…. Nick Van Dalsem Balthazar…….………..………. Gretchen Hohenstein Second Merchant…..…………..…. Caroline Kawabe Courtesan……………..……….…..…. Alexandra Ruiz Dr. Pinch……………………………..…Carson Alanes Abbess (Emilia)…..…………….…..… Danika McKee Messenger………………………….. John Warburton Officers…………………………………..Imani Brutlag Paige Solano John Warburton Ensemble……..………………….. Isabelle Buchanan Eliza Contreras Jackson Dong Lucy O’Hara Matt Kane Lily Ana Ponce Jessica Porras Lily Risk
Set Designer Sam Enriquez Sound Designers Andrew Park* Jacob Nguyen Lighting Designer/Lead Patrick Manson Microphone Team Louis DiBernardo Stephanie Giron Andrew Park Audio Team Andrew Park Sebastian Saintignon Costume Designer Stephanie Giron Wardrobe Team Victoria Silva* Aria Buchanan Lauren Jones Jacob Nguyen Betty Pham Miranda Vasquez
Hair & Makeup Team Maria Contreras* Rosa Saporito* Isabella Battersby Fereshteh Bunk Cynthia Garcia Megan Jones Sofía Moreno Fiona Mulholland Grace Snider Victoria Villarreal Kelli Wilkes Carpentry Louis DiBernardo Sam Enriquez Properties Team Sarah Ledesma* Benjamin Cruz Sebastian Ledesma Deck Crew Louis DiBernardo* Sam Enriquez Nicholas Quattrocchi Joshua Weed
House Management Jack Chorbagian* Alyssa Schickling* Kiana Hernandez Gabe Pollock Sarah Schulist Programs Ms. Alexi Thomas* Ava Walters* Benjamin Cruz Abridgment Ms. Alexi Thomas Publicity Team Aria Buchanan Natalie Smale Box Office Ms. Allison Spencer Concessions Mr. Danny Campbell Ms. Alexi Thomas
*denotes team leader
The videotaping or other video or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited.
Synopsis The Comedy of Errors begins with Egeon, a merchant from Syracuse, taken prisoner in Ephesus for involving himself in trade between the two cities, a practice considered illegal. With no money to pay for the ransom on his life, Egeon tells the tale of his sons and their slaves. Over a quarter of a century earlier, Egeon and his wife, Emilia, became the parents of twin sons, and they soon bought another pair of twin boys, born “that same hour,” to be slaves for their own sons. They named both sons Antipholus and both slaves Dromio. In a shipwreck several years later, the family was separated. The separation left one of each parent, son, and slave on each side. Events transpire and the whole family is brought together in Ephesus, unbeknownst to either trio. Thus begins a series of errors and mix-ups among the characters, building a hilariously chaotic ride. As everyone descends further into the bewildering madness, Egeon and the Duke prepare for Egeon’s execution. Ephesus becomes the setting of series of twists and turns that reunite a fractured family in a classically comedic way.
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Director’s Notes
Mr. Joe Alanes Director of Theatre
The title, The Comedy of Errors, would lead anyone to the conclusion that this is a comedy. And it is. However, there is sadness at the core of it, with a shipwreck that separates a husband and a wife, and two sets of brothers. The characters are lost and confused in one way or the other, as they seek genuine, true connections to help understand themselves, and to gain a sense of identity, in this crazy, confusing world. We set the play in New York City, because it provided a great sense of hustle and bustle that is foreign to our visitors from Syracuse (which, in our world, is the American South). So we have our two confused southerners right in the middle of the craziest city in the world, New York City. These characters navigate through their varied relationships with each other, some real and some imagined. As twins get confused for each other, what once was very simple, becomes very complex and convoluted. But it also becomes amazingly fun! Thank you for joining us as we kick off the year with this tale of mixed-up identities, as well as irrational and unbelievable behavior, bringing out life in ALL its messiness. Enjoy this ‘sad’ but happy comedy, about identity and loss, family and relationships, and most of all, twinning and winning. Enjoy the show!
Cast Bios MoniQue Rangell-Onwuegbuzia (Antipholus of Syracuse) MoniQue is so excited to be a part of Mater Dei's production of The Comedy of Errors. Some of her favorite past roles are Hecate in Macbeth, Fan in South Coast Repertory's A Christmas Carol, and Hipster Dork in Top Hat 8 Repertory's production of Heathers the Musical: High School Edition. If she's not rehearsing at Mater Dei, she’s probably taking a class at Ivana Chubbuck Studios, having a voice lesson, auditioning for shows, watching musicals in Los Angeles, writing scenes, or reading plays. In those rare moments when her life doesn't involve theatre in some capacity, she also loves traveling the world with her family, spending time with friends, daydreaming about attending Harvard someday, and drinking tea. She would like to thank her mom for being her biggest fan and her sister for being her best friend, her best critic, and the best scene partner ever. Alexis Rangell-Onwuegbuzia (Antipholus of Ephesus) Lexis is super jazzed to be playing Antipholus of Ephesus opposite her best friend in the world (who also happens to be her twin sister). Her favorite previous roles are Hecate in Macbeth and Time in The Winter’s Tale—she has a passion for Shakespeare, which explains her other role as dramaturge. When she's not doing something related to theatre, she's probably making art on Photoshop or writing poetry; when she's not doing that, she's juggling college apps, praying for admission to Harvard, and keeping up with five AP classes; and if she's still not doing that, she might actually be sleeping for once! Lexis would like to thank her parents for their endless support; Mateo, Alyssa, Smale, Cera, Hannah, and Megan for being the best friends ever; Grace and Kelli for being such wonderful scene partners and friends; Ms. Thomas, Mr. Campbell, and Mr. Alanes for their guidance and wisdom; and her sister MoniQue for being the best twin on and off the stage. Enjoy!
Kalusha Brutlag (Adriana) Kalusha Brutlag is thrilled to be a part of this year's production of The Comedy of Errors. This is Kalusha's sixth production here at Mater Dei. Last year Kalusha was Black Stache in Peter and The Starcatcher, Tituba in The Crucible, and Mopsa in The Winter's Tale. This play has been an amazing challenge and she cannot wait for the audience to see the characters in this play brought to life. The rehearsal process has been such a new and joyful experience. Kalusha has really appreciated being able to work with all of her wonderful classmates and grow closer to them. She is very excited to perform for you all and is thankful to God for allowing her to have such an enjoyable experience.
Grace Danon (Dromio of Syracuse) Grace Danon is senior at Mater Dei and is so thrilled to be a part of The Comedy of Errors! Doing theatre has been such a special and enriching part of her high school experience, and Shakespeare in the Grotto has been her favorite Mater Dei tradition. She is currently Theatre Arts Club President and Lead Cappies Critic. In her spare time, she loves traveling, cooking, and doing yoga. Grace would like to thank her parents for their constant love and support, as well as Mr. Alanes, Ms. Thomas, Mr. Campbell, and the entire cast and crew for making theatre so fun and for working so hard! She hopes you enjoy the show!
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Annemarie Verkuylen (Luciana) Annemarie Verkuylen is excited to be performing in her third production with Mater Dei’s Theatre Department. In addition to acting, Annemarie also performs with the JV Songleading team and the Bel Canto choir. She would like to thank Mr. Alanes, Mr. Campbell, and Ms. Thomas for seeing her potential and helping her develop as an actress. She thanks the cast and crew for their hard work and support throughout the production. She would also like to thank her parents, sister Paula, and all her family for their love and support. She dedicates her performances to her Grandpa Phil. Kelli Chamberlain (Dromio of Ephesus) Kelli Chamberlain is super excited to play Dromio of Ephesus in her very first production at Mater Dei in The Comedy of Errors. Her passion for theatre arts as well as music continually drive her to try new avenues of acting and performance. This year it was tackling Shakespeare, which she loves. Her most recent roles include Matchmaker in Mulan, Mandy in 15 Reasons Not to Be in a Play, Carla in Little Red Robin Hood, and Nala in The Lion King. Kelli would like to thank her amazing friends, family, her sweet little dog, fellow cast members, and everyone else who has supported her throughout this journey. She would especially like to thank Mr. Alanes, Mr. Campbell, Ms. Thomas, and all involved in theatre for including her in this Mater Dei tradition.
Gwen Smith (Duke Solinus) Gwen Smith is very excited to play Duke Solinus in our rendition of The Comedy of Errors. Other characters she has had the opportunity to play include Rafiki from The Lion King, the ugly stepsister Prunella from Little Red Robin Hood and Alice in Wonderland. She has also helped with many other Mater Dei productions, such as Thoroughly Modern Millie, The Crucible, and a role in last year’s Shakespeare, The Winters Tale. Ever since she was little she has done as much as she could to be involved with the theatre. She has also worked back stage with many other productions and was even able to be a stage manager and lead deckhand! Gwen would like to thank the directors for casting and putting faith in her to play this character. Gwen is very grateful to have been given the chance and is glad to have this opportunity.
Jonathan Lefebvre (Egeon) Jonathan is so excited to be able to contribute to this great Mater Dei tradition as Egeon. He would like to thank Mr. Alanes and Mr. Campbell for allowing him to be a part of this great community. He would also like to profusely thank his parents for being so supportive of him and helping him through this new and exciting experience. He's so happy to be surrounded with such great and loving people. Have a great time!
Danika McKee (Abbess/Emilia) Danika McKee is thrilled to take part in this wonderful production of The Comedy of Errors. She has previously had ensemble roles in A Midsummer Night’s Dream and The Crucible, and played First Gentleman and Servant #1 in The Winter’s Tale. She is very excited to play her first character role as the Abbess, Em1lia. Outside of theatre she enjoys participating in Choir, playing piano, and juggling. Danika would like to thank Ms. Thomas, Mr. Campbell, and Mr. Alanes for all of their hard work, dedication, and for inspiring her to continue her theatrical aspirations.
Nick Van Dalsem (Angelo) Nick is extremely excited to be portraying Angelo in this year's Shakespeare in the Grotto. He has appeared in previous shows as Jack in Into the Woods, Thomas Putnam in The Crucible, and Florizell in The Winter's Tale. Nick is a member of Chambers Singers and plans to continue on with choir for the rest of his time at Mater Dei. He is currently the Junior Class President, a member of Improv, and is involved in Campus Ministry. He would like to extend his thanks to his parents, his brothers Will and Jack, Mr. Alanes, Mr. Campbell, and Ms. Thomas for their support during this production.
Alexandra Ruiz (Courtesan) This is Alexandra’s eighth production at Mater Dei and she is thrilled to play Courtesan in The Comedy of Errors. A few of her favorite Shakespeare roles have been the witch in Macbeth, Hermia in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Dorcas in The Winter’s Tale. She would like to thank her family for being so supportive, Mr. Alanes and Mr. Campbell for their incredible direction, and her cast for making this show so fun. She hopes you enjoy the show!
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Naea Lautenschlager (First Merchant) Naea Lautenschlager is very excited to participate in this year’s Shakespeare in the Grotto. She has previously participated in several other Theater productions such as A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Les Misérables. She wants to thank her parents for encouraging, and supporting her throughout her journey here at Mater Dei.
Gretchen Hohenstein (Balthazar) Gretchen is very excited to be playing the part of Balthazar in Mater Dei's The Comedy of Errors. This is her sophomore year at Mater Dei. Balthazar is her first speaking part here, so she's especially thrilled to play him. In her freshman year, she played an afflicted girl and ensemble member in The Crucible and worked on the deck crew for Thoroughly Modern Millie. She loves every aspect of the theatre program, and she hopes to branch out this year and try new things. She'd like to thank Mr. Alanes and his wonderful Theatre I class for improving her confidence, and she'd also like to thank everyone else she's met and worked with along the way for accepting and supporting her, especially the older theatre kids. Enjoy the show! Caroline Kawabe (2nd Merchant) Caroline Kawabe is most excited to play the Second Merchant in Mater Dei's production of The Comedy of Errors during her freshman year! She has been in 20+ productions, 7 of them Shakespeare, prior to her role in Comedy of Errors. Some of her past parts include: Alice (Alice in Wonderland), Lily (Annie), Wickersham (Suessical), Pyramus (A Midsummer Night’s Dream), Gabriella (High School Musical), and one of the three witches (Macbeth). She has also made it to the final round of her school's Shakespeare monologue competition for three consecutive years. Caroline would like to give a big thank you to Mr. Alanes, Mr. Campbell, Ms. Thomas, all of the student directors, cast, and crew for making this show possible! Also, a huge thank you to her family, friends, and past theatre coaches for helping her along the way. She hopes you enjoy the show! Carson Alanes (Dr. Pinch)
Carson is freaking pumped to exorcise twins as Dr. Pinch in Mater Dei’s production of The Comedy of Errors. Although Carson has never acted in any of the shows, he has worked backstage with mics and spotlights. Some of his other involvements include being in the Mater Dei Improv Troupe, Key Club, and Anime Club. He would like to thank the director of this show, Mr. Alanes (and Mrs. Alanes too), for physically giving him life when they didn't have to. He also wanted to thank Papa John Daniel “DCamps” Campbell for helping him improve his accent and being the
moderator/advisor/godfather of improv. He hopes you enjoy, or at least mildly like the show!
Kelsey West (Luce) Kelsey West is thoroughly psyched to be playing her first ever speaking role as Luce in Mater Dei's The Comedy of Errors. Her past theatre experience includes playing a partying Bohemian in Mater Dei's The Winter's Tale as well as a gazelle in her world class kindergarten play, A Rumble in the Jungle. Kelsey would like to acknowledge and thank her friends from the bottom of her heart for showing her how beautiful even the most mundane moments of the day can be. Kelsey would also like to thank her parents and theatre directors for being so very patient with her and for modeling such incredible kindness. She hopes you enjoy the show and she would also like to say, "Check out all my cool kitchen utensils!!" Leah Sparks (Jailer)
Leah Sparks is a junior here at Mater Dei. She loves acting and has participated in three previous Mater Dei performances: Midsummer Night’s Dream, Peter and the Starcatcher, and The Crucible. In her spare time, Leah enjoys reading and playing card games with her family. Leah has loved working with her fellow actors and is thankful for the bonds they’ve made as a result of the show. I would like to thank Mr. Alanes, Mr. Campbell, and Ms. Thomas for working so hard to make this show happen. Enjoy the show!
John Warburton (Messenger/Officer) John is very excited to be involved with this year's Shakespeare in the Grotto, The Comedy of Errors. He enjoys hanging out with his friends at the beach, rehearsal after school, and listening to musicals in his free time. John wants to thank his parents for supporting his decision to join theater, his friends for acting in the play alongside him, the crew for putting together a great production for the audience, and Mr. Alanes, Mr. Campbell, and Ms. Thomas for setting up a fantastic show. He hopes you enjoy this hilarious and quirky show!
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“
HEY ALEXA!!
Long before the Amazon Echo made Alexa a household name, you could hear, “Hey Alexa!!”, all round the Mater Dei campus. From the soccer pitch to the choir room, and across the lacrosse field to the Little Theater, Alexa Vellanoweth ‘12 was a quintessential Renaissance Woman, a Homecoming Queen and a true Monarch. Today she continues that gritty, go-get-it attitude as she pursues her dream - Broadway. “Artiscally, what gets me most is live theatre because of the shared experience.” In her time at Mater Dei, Alexa starred in multiple productions of Shakespeare in the Grotto, portrayed the formidable character of Anne Frank, rocked it out in the The Wedding Singer as Julia, and improv’d her way on stage and off. If there was a theatre production, Alexa was there. “I received a fantastic, broad education that gave me a great footing for the future.” Although her theatre training was matchless, she credits an unlikely partner in her theatrical success, “I never thought that soccer would land me my first commercial gig! It just reminded me that everything we do makes us who we are today. All those things your teachers and directors say that seem so flippant at the time, they’re true - they are all true!! It hits even harder when it comes up in the real world here in LA.” Los Angeles was a natural draw for Alexa, and she found herself at one of the great theatre programs in Southern California, LMU. “What drew me most to LMU was its incredible abroad program. I studied in a conservatory setting in Bonn, Germany for 6 months. It was the hardest I have worked in my life, and it added so many tools to my toolbox while
Homecoming queen with dad, Steve - 2012
www.alexavellanoweth.com
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HEY Alexa! Where can we find you?? @alexavalexav
@alexavellanoweth
Alexa with the Del Rey Players - Loyola Marymount University
encouraging me to throw out my toolbox altogether.” Tools such as grit, persistence, workethic, kindness, empathy, love - those are the tools she holds on strong to today. Coupled with her entrepreneurial spirit, the sky is the limit while always keeping her feet secured to the ground with her great faith. “I’ve recently gone to church more and reconnected with how I felt on WIF (Walk in Faith). I feel so much more present now and capable of l e a v i n g i t u p t o G o d - i t ’s incredible.” She adds, “It’s trusting in whatever God has planned for you, it’s riding the waves and being ready and trained in all aspects of your craft.” One of her more recent pursuits in “being ready” is working and training with The Groundlings, the iconic improv troupe in LA which has fostered comic artists such as Phil Hartman, Cheri Oteri, Will
Madrigal Feast 2012
Ferrell, Will Forte and Kristen Wiig
factors you can’t control, but
to name a few. Her days now consist of networking events, acting classes, building reel footage, commercial work and constant honing of her
making sure you control the things you can is what will make you successful.”
skills. “I saw my dad prepare 15 quotes a month for his contracting business and maybe land 2 out of those 15. All work is worthwhile, it’s just that sometimes the payoff
this who are looking to pursue the arts, Alexa says, “You really have to treat performing like running your own company - 30% is the artistry and the other 70%
is farther down the road than we would like.” In theatre, stage and film, there are typically far more no’s than there are yes’s, so how does one keep strong and focused
is marketing and strategizing. Training will only get you so far, but you have to be willing to accept the business of it all while maintaining your faith in yourself
on the end goal? “I’ve been really introspective about how I feed my body, mind and soul so I can be in control of what I need to be in control of. There are so many
and your abilities.” And lastly she adds, “Happiness begets Happiness…focus on God’s love in action and there is no limit to what you can accomplish.”
Shakespeare in the Grotto 2010
As for advice to those reading
walk in faith 2013
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Monarch Masterpiece The New Center for the Arts at Mater Dei High School
DO UB L TR E O UB LE
We,
as
a
culture
are truly
fascinated by
t h e i n c re d i b l e
phenomena of
twins.
To h a v e
someone in this world
who shares your features,
your birthday, and some say
your mind - how great would that
be?!
We are so fascinated, in fact,
that we created a new word just to
describe that feeling of being nearly
identical to someone - say it with me… #twinning. And although most of us are typically #twinning only when we wear the same Mater Dei skirt and shorts and the same
color polo, there are 4 girls in
the Performing Arts Department who
have truly #twon the right to double up every day and every night. Katey and Sammy Osuna and Alexis and MoniQue Rangell-Onwuegbuzia represent the choral and theatre programs here are Mater Dei. “I didn’t discover my love for singing until I signed up for choir my freshman year to fulfill the performing arts requirement - since then, I have found a passion for singing, especially with my sister,” says Sammy, a member of Bel Canto, the Advanced Women’s Ensemble. It was Katey who had been singing for as long as they can remember, but it is the power of their relationship which makes performing that much more meaningful. “Singing with my sister is not only fun, but also a big confidence booster. By having Katey by my side, I am able to open up more and we make great music together.” Just last year, the Osuna girls sang “Count on Me” by Bruno Mars at Coffeehouse, something Katey never imagined happening when they were growing up. Going deeper, you need to understand that growing up with a twin is far different than growing up with just another sibling. “We kind of have our own secret language,” MoniQue says.
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“It’s literally gibberish: we’ll just make really weird sounds or noises and they make
absolutely no sense, but we totally know what the other is trying to say.” When asked if they finish each others sandwiches, Alexis and
MoniQue giggle, “No…but we do finish sentences for each other! We’ve said full on 10-word sentences in exactly the same manner at exactly the same time - you couldn’t coordinate it so accurately no matter how hard you tried!” Alexis continues, “When I perform with my sister, I perform at the best of my ability. She understands what makes me tick or smile on and offstage.” But, does it ever get annoying being mistaken for your sister and dealing with all that comes with being a twin? “Most people think that sharing a birthday would be a burden, but we really enjoy celebrating together, in particular, our joint quinceñera two years ago,” remark Katey and Sammy. “And who can complain when you have a built in study-buddy, a shoulder to cry on and someone to go through life’s adventures with! Since we are going through the same things for the most part, we’re able to relate to and help each other through crises…it’s really incredible.” From the womb to the stage, this pair of pairs has experienced joy, pain, loss and growth together and each credit their sister for encouraging them to be better everyday. “We know each other so well it helps with self-reflection because we see each other’s blind spots,” MoniQue explains as Alexis adds, “After almost 18 years of being wombmates and roommates, she knows how to push me to be my best because she knows my best better than I even do. When I perform with my sister, I perform at the peak of my ability, because she won’t let me get away with anything less.” Performing is so much more than singing the notes on the page or delivering a monologue with impeccable diction - it is about connection. As artists, we strive to build connections with our friends, our enemies, our peers and our mentors, but it’s just another day for these #twinners. With a contented smile Katey comments, “Performing has always been fun, but it doesn’t compare with performing with my sister and sharing the spotlight.” And MoniQue adds, “Performing with Alexis is like performing with my best friend…I love doing what I love the most with the person I love the most.”
PA Program Annual Appeal Ad.pdf 1 9/21/2017 10:52:57 AM
“I attribute all of my many achievements to Mater Dei High School, as the administrators, faculty, and staff have all played a part in my life as a student an person. On behalf of the many students who have received financial aid while attending Mater Dei, I wish to extend my gratitude toward the gracious benefactors , for their numerous donations and unwaivering support.”
C
M
Y
CM
ude t i t a r G
Dyllan Ly ‘17, Monarch of the Year – Salutatorian University of California, San Diego Class of 2021
MY
CY
CMY
K
TRADITION NEVER GRADUATES The We Are MD Annual Appeal directly benefits need-based financial aid at Mater Dei High School. For the 2017-2018 school year, Mater Dei is providing $5.7 million in aid to 50% of our students (nearly 1,000 families). Financial aid is critical to ensuring the diversity of our school, a crucial part of the mission and philosophy of Mater Dei High School. We recognize the value of each and every student and his or her contributions to Mater Dei’s traditions of HONOR, GLORY and LOVE since we opened our doors in Santa Ana in 1950. The collective impact of our incredible Mater Dei network comprised of alumni, lifetime parents, current parents, foundations and generous benefactors makes this level of support possible. With your help, Mater Dei can continue to provide equal access to ALL students who desire the exceptional education available at Mater Dei High School. We are grateful for your consideration of the 2017-2018 We are MD Annual Appeal. Every gift, regardless of size makes a difference – especially YOURS. Visit www.materdei.org/donate to make your gift today.
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faculty & staff
Masters in their field and consummate professionals at Mater Dei and beyond, the Faculty and Staff of the Performing Arts Dept. are concerned with ultimately one goal the success of our students. And although our product is the finest around, it is in the process where we find gratification and the true measure of artistry. We aim to build artistry from the inside, that which our students can carry with them to college and beyond.
Scott Melvin Executive Director, Performing Arts
Allison Spencer Administrative Assistant
Justin Miller Director of Choral Music
Amanda Bistolfo Associate Director of Choral Music
Kent Helwig Choral Accompanist
Stefan Miller Voice Instructor
Fernando Martinez Director of Instrumental Music
Associate Director of Instrumental Music
Taylor Smith
Chadd Hartmann Colorguard Head Coach
Joe Alanes Director of Theatre
Danny Campbell Associate Director of Theatre
Alexi Thomas Theatre Assistant
Melissa Jacobson Festival Coordinator
Kristina Marquez Director of Dance
Aubrey Price Song Head Coach
In addition to these incredible directors and associates are nearly 30 adjunct voice teachers, instrumental instructors, dance assistants and coaches who compliment the great demands of of the Performing Arts Department.
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