2017-18 Winter, Issue 1- Madrigal Feast

MONARCH

WINTER EDITION

2017

SPOTLIGHT

Madrigal Feast December 8-10

Chapman University, Sandhu Conference Center & Memorial Hall

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Performing Arts With gratitude and admiration, we acknowledge

Mrs. Darlene Shiley & the shiley foundation For her continued support of the Arts at Mater Dei High School.

Thank you for paving the way for young artists to shine.

May our performances equally match your generosity.

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 Cefalu Family The Chamberlain Family Lisa Chorbagian The Clark Family 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 The Duron Family 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 Ken and Sue Gaitan Julian Galindo Yeni Gil GFS Marketing, Inc.

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Patrons of the Arts Gina & Jon-Eric Santanello Russell & Kim Godin The Goodkind Family Jacqueline Gray Gustavo Guillen Amanda Hancock Dwight Hanson Greg & Lisa (Bartholomy) Hendey Louie and Bita Hernandez Tracey Hessen Philip Hiestand The Hinz Family Timothy Hirota Hockenbury Family Aaron and Jane Hodgdon Debra Hoffmeyer David and Beth Hopkins Julie and Mark Hughes Mark and Joanne Hulme Melissa B. Jacobson Sylvia Jaques Lawrence Jean Joe Jimenez The Josten Family The Kawabe Family Robert Kessler Carmina Kissinger Tiffany Klarin Maureen Kosinski Ralph C. Kuhen Stephen D. Lamb Claudia Lapkin Elisabeth Leandro Rick Ledesma Stephan Lee Shelly L. Leeson Jennifer and Channing Lefebvre Alana Lowenberg Deanna Lowrey The Ludovico Family Julie Maglione Kara Marks Brian Marsh Nicole Matar The Matlock Group Nicholas G. McCutcheon The McGee Family

The McIntosh Family Dennis McKee Cary Lee McIerran The Menzia Family Cindy Millsap Zarate Fiaz Mohammed Christine M. Monge Jim and Elizabeth Moos Mary Ellen & Matthew Moschetti Hitta Mosesman The Mulholland Family The Euro Family Grizelda Navarro Kathleen Nazionale Cate Neushauser Kimberly Neuhauser Mark Nialis Roger and Michelle Nieves The O’Day Family The Osuna Family John Otters The Park Family Megan Parks Arnold and Teresa (Clare) Pinkston The Poliquin Family Manuel Porto Vince and Shannon Pozzuoli Peter Pulizzi Mateo Ramirez Albert Rasch Rental Bootique Reunion Kitchen + Drink Blake Ribisi The Riedl Family The Rimicci Family Teodora Rios Gabriel Rivas The Rojek Family Michael Rood The Rubio Family Angelo J. Ruta Jose and Cynthia Salazar JA Salazar Construction and Supply Co. The Salcedo Family Geoffrey Sando Jeff and Christine Sarmiento The Shepherd Family

Andy and Karen Schickling Linda Shoaff Judith Schuda Steve and Teri Schulist Leslie and David Seidner Cindie and Bert Selva Abbie and Sergio Serna Tim Shaler Mr. and Mrs. Doug Shepherd The Shiley Foundation The Silva Family Larry Silva Kevin P. Simes Susan Skenderian Martin Smith Carmen Spencer Karen Stallings Ellen Stanley Michael and Julie Stewart The Strader Family The Sullivan Family Michael Sundine Scott Svendsen Mark Teale Kyle Tine Michael and Mary Trotter Georgina and Anthony Ty Quang Uong David J. Ure Alex Valle The Van Dalsem Family James Van Eenenaam Stephen Vellanoweth Al and Yvonne Verkuylen Remedio Villasin Reunion Kitchen and Drink Jaclynn Vines Gracia Vukcevich Tana Walsh Helen Warburton Ken and Deonna Watkins Patricia Weed Jennifer West Mary Wetherall The Whitley Family The Whittaker Family John Widera Thomas Williamson Susan Wojtaszek Francine Woods Todd Woody

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 Student Spotlight: Double Trouble..… 10 Madrigal Feast Program…….……….. 15 Performing Arts Faculty and Staff..……23 Alumni Spotlight: Hey, Alexa…….…. 24 Monarch Masterpiece Preview………. 28 10

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letter from the director‌

“

Welcome back to another terrific year of artistry here at Mater Dei High School! As the cool of winter draws upon us, 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 and charting a course for a resurgence in the arts not just on the corner of Bristol and Edinger, but

Our work offstage is far more significant than any character we play onstage.

“

throughout our local community and Southern California. By now, you are well aware 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. 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. Until then, we invite you to enjoy the many performances and events the Performing Arts Department has to offer. From the roots of Shakespeare to our final event in May, the effervescent Coffeehouse, there is something for everyone.

It is the season for sharing, and in that spirit our students and faculty are making a difference in the concert halls, on the fields, but most importantly in our community. The Dance Program continues the wonderful outreach to our men and women of the armed forces in the Monarchs 4 Marines program. Just this past weekend, our dancers led craft making, dancing and games with children and spouses of those serving overseas. The Theatre program supports many charities through the Chuckles for Charity events throughout the year. Our Instrumental Music Program continues its great work with the Marian Alliance schools, bringing music to our local Diocesan schools in Santa Ana, providing access and programs in the arts. The Music Academy currently serves over 400 students and offers free instruction Monday and Thursday evenings here at Mater Dei under the direction of Mr. Taylor Smith and various students from Mater Dei. And finally, though The Bundy Family Fund, the choir sponsors families during the Christmas season, assisting with meals, presents and the gift of being loved and cared for - a small offering we hope goes a long way. Our work off stage is far more significant than any character we play onstage and so I encourage you to find ways to support these amazing programs in any way you can.

So please, sit back and relax, embrace this fine December eve and enjoy your Feast presented by the Mater Dei Choirs and handbells. We are honored to celebrate with you in song the great gifts of our Lord Jesus Christ - Huzzah and God Bless you all!!

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.

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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Save the date to experience Spain with MDHS Choral Music: Easter 2018.

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Mater Dei High School Music Academy

We, the Mater Dei High School Music Academy, believe in building individual confidence and group collaboration by pursuing excellence from day one. We encourage all students to excel spiritually, and musically through expression and individual creativity.

STUDENTS INVOLVED IN MUSIC:

“

Pursuing Excellence From Day One!

Stay in engaged in school Earn higher grades Build intellectual curiosity, and creative thinking skills Develop language and reasoning skills Build pride and confidence within themselves Music does more than just make sounds, it changes the way young people think and behave. The skills your child will learn in music will help them be successful on the stage, in the classroom, and for the rest of their lives.

“If I were not a physicist, I would probably be a musician. I often think in music. I live my daydreams in music. I see my life in terms of music.” – Albert Einstein

Music academy Band rehearses twice a week (Monday and Thursday) from 6pm -8pm inside the MDHS Band Room.

2017-2018:

@ o } B ne t g }| Game (Pep Band) @ e ~ } B d | | u d @ g } | B l b g| Trip/Performance @ g } | B n| e b| }| h| (Pep Band) @ n| ~ B t j | n ~ d ~ @ n| ~ B t d Arts @ c B c t | s ~ | @ c B t d ~ @ c

g|~ } ! 'n| e i t~ j | n ~ @ z u } ! 'n| e i t~ j | n ~ @ u ! ' | }| @ j | | ! ' | ~

Madrigal Feast Director’s Welcome Good Evening and welcome to the Mater Dei High School Choral Music Department’s 28th Annual Madrigal Feast. This Evening you will be taken back to the year of our Lord 1612. We are in the height of the Renaissance, celebrating life, art, music and the birth of Jesus Christ.

As with any recreation, we face certain philosophical questions about when to cease authenticity and begin practicality. With this in mind, we have added some modern touches to our royal feast, such as supplying our guests with the familiar fork, knife and spoon. During this era, each guest would have brought their own knife and used their fingers to eat.

The custom of placing the knife blade inward at your setting tonight stems from these royal feasts when knights would place blades inward to show friendship and outward to show distrust of an enemy that might have been placed next to them by the King.

There are many people to thank for helping put this beautiful evening together. Our executive board, under the leadership of Madrigal Feast Chairs Wayne and Julie Fort and President Lisa Busch, did an incredible job organizing everything you are experiencing tonight. Thank you for your ever present wit and keen eye for the details. Thanks also to Debbie Melvin, Jeff Busch, Carolyn Josten, and all the committee members working together to make this night beautiful and smooth. I am so excited to have a venue to thank and welcome back our dear alumni. And to the student directors, Daniel Mejia, Chris Barry, Anthony Helman, and Keely Gaeta, I would like to extend a special thanks to you in this your final Madrigal Feast – we are all indebted to you for your leadership.

The world has great things in store for you and I cannot wait to see your impact – God speed! And finally, to all the alumni present tonight and everyday within the Mater Dei Choral Music Program – I pray that you have had continued success in singing and ringing and that you are sharing the joy of music in your daily lives.

Justin Miller Director of Choral Music

Now sit back and enjoy your Madrigal Feast! Thank you all for attending tonight’s event and supporting choral music at Mater Dei. I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and all the joy in the coming year!

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Ye Royal

Commendations Unending thanks to the following patrons for their continual support

Madrigal Feast Sponsors King’s Advisory Circle ($1,500+) David & Nicole Barry The Chamberlain Family Clark Commercial Development Hamilton, Mercer & Werre, LLC The Ludovico Family The McIntosh Family The Menzia Family Jim & Elizabeth Moos

Reunion Kitchen & Drink JA Salazar Constr. & Supply Corp.

The Schulist Family The Silva Family Michael & Julie Stewart The Trotter Family The Van Dalsem Family The Whitley Family

Queen’s Court ($1,000+) The DeLong Family Steve & Marianne Duron The Josten Family

Mr. & Mrs. Paul Hinz Mr. & Mrs. Doug Shepherd Ken & Deonna Watkins

Earl’s Intrigue ($750+) Tom & Maeve Corbett-Browne The Dang Family Aaron & Jane Hodgdon Roger & Michelle Nieves

Vince & Shannon Pozzuoli Robert & Rebecca Riedl Al & Yvonne Verkuylen

Jester’s Guild ($250+) Dana Barton Louie & Bita Hernandez Mark & Joanne Hulme

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Jennifer & Channing Lefevbre O’Day & Associates Communications Bernardo & Veronica Osuna

Choral Program Faculty Director..……….…………………….………………. Mr. Justin Miller Associate Director……….………….………… Ms. Amanda Bistolfo Chamber Singers………………….….……………… Mr. Scott Melvin Pianist…………………………………………..………. Mr. Kent Helwig Vocal Conservatory Director….….………….. Mr. Stefan Miller Vocal Coach…………………………………………….Ms. Fatmia Rizvi Mr. Joseph Dhanens Director of Dance.…..………………..……… Ms. Kristina Marquez Dance Assistant…………….…….…………….…..…. Ms. Paige Ortiz

Feast Committee Feast Chair..………..………………. Mr. & Mrs. Wayne & Julie Fort Tickets……….……..….…………………………… Mrs. Debbie Melvin Ms. Allison Spencer Costumes………..……………..….……………… Mrs. Carolyn Josten Chaperones/First Aid…………………..………. Mrs. MaryAnn Luna Flowers……………………………….…..………….. Mrs. Kelly Clark Sweatshirts………………………………………………. Mr. Jeff Bundy Student Meals.………………..………………..……… Mrs. Lisa Busch Shields……………………….……….…………….…..….Mr. Jeff Busch

Choir Officers Student Director..…………………..…………………….Daniel Mejia Music & Administration Chair….………….…..…. Anthony Helman Choir Social Chair……….………..……………….…..…. Chris Barry Communications Chair……….….….…………….…..…. Keely Gaeta Chamber Singers President.….……….…………………… Amy Busch Bel Canto President………..……….…..….……………… Marie Beld Kingsmen President………………………………. Mitchell Rimlinger Concert Choir President…………….…..………….. Isabella Pietro Cabaletta President……..………………………………. Paige Solano Vivace President.……….……..………………..……… Kaitlyn Staats Troubadors President………….…………….…..…. Braxton Nguyen Handbell President……..……….…………….…..…. Marcus Nguyen Handbell Manager………..……….…………….…..…. Marco Rimicci

Mater Dei High School Administration MD President..…..……………….………………. Mr. Patrick Murphy 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. Director, Performing Arts……….………. Mr. Scott Melvin

Feast Chronology Year

Lorde of the Feast

Ladye of the Feast

1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Ryan Orr Lawrence Gustafson Philip Parke David Giuliano Jerry Arias Patrick Layton Ben Engelke Marcel Losada Nicholas Raboy Thomas Ito Christopher Smith Adam Luckey Tony Arnold/Wayne South Ryan Leimkuhler Michael Rosenberg RC Shelton Stephen Lamb Paul Cooper Martin Lopez Sam Digiovanni Keith Morton Connor Kelly Robby King Joey Busch Andrew Hammond Matt Rodriguez Alex Hirota Jack Santanello Davis Ferrero Stephan Lee Daniel Kubeck

Amy Goodwin Amy Garbison Amy Rodibaugh Beth Layton Alyssa Lofosse Ruschka Sanguinetti Sarah Fatigue Sarah Luckey Katie Gigliotti Leslie Castellano Barbara Porto Shayna Shaw Nicole Smith Kelly Kimball Rachel Barretto Annbriel Bresnen Janelle Patterson Sara Martin Jessica Sebbo Anne-Marie Gomez Emilee Brown Hannah Bannan Rachel McIntosh Hailey Detterich Dani L’Heureux Shelby Williamson Lexi Fort Emma Whitley Olivia Schulist Annie Flati Amy Busch

2014 2015 2016 2017

Masque Theme Merlin the Magician Ghost of Hamlet’s Father Eric the Valiant Chorus Father Christmas Story Teller Beowolf Lady Sage Amahl Court Herald Archangel Foolish Kings The Jester Test Handel and Gretsky The Royal Wedding A Little Night Schtick Sleepless in the Castle The Night of Nights 7 Brides for 7 Brothers Yule Journey A Camelot Christmas The Pirate King The Royal Presentation The Royal Election We Three Kings The Royal Brotherhood The Phantom Menace It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad Feast The Royal Wordsmith

Special Thanks Kelly Cooke, Chapman University Event Services Maggie Heimann, Chapman University Event Services Jessica Solares, Chapman University Catering Brian Fujii, Chapman University Stage Manager South Coast Photography CoDependency Film McNally Enterprises, Inc.

Robert Conrad, Sound Engineer Greg Martin, Lighting Engineer Brian Barsuglia, Christy Monge & Andrew Roberts, Monarch TV Jennifer Walton, Orchestra Contractor Joe Sanders, Additional Orchestrations Jennifer Dennin, Study Hall Supervisor All Alumni, Parent Chaperones and Friends

Professional recordings of every performance will be made available for purchase and all choir students receive one copy of their own. With this in mind, please refrain from recording with any device, any or all of the performances so that we may provide the most enjoyable and unimpeded view throughout the evening.

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Programme Masque Cast List King..……….…………………….……………….…. Daniel Kubeck Queen……….………………………………..….………… Amy Busch Town Criers……………………….….………………Maureen Beld Imani Brutlag Jesters……………….…………………………..………. Gwen Smith Reese Wineroth Monk….….………………………………………………David Nisson Wenches.…..………………..…………………….. Aurora Farrell Alizea Hinz Prince…………….……….………….…………….…..….Casey Fort Ladye Canterbury…..….…………….…..….Victoria Villareal Ladye Fumbleton………..……….…..…. Annemarie Verkuylen

Dinner Solos Friday The First Noel………..………..………………. Kalusha Brutlag Silver Bells….……..….…………………………… Evelyn Taylor The Christmas Song……………..….………………Keith Romero Winter Wonderland…….…………..……….Madison McCurdy White Christmas……..….…………..………. Jonathan Lefevbre

Saturday Santa Baby………….…………..………………. Haley Skonieczny Victoria Villareal Blue Christmas….……..….……………………………

Winter Wonderland……………..….……………… Jordan Moos Frosty the Snowman…….………………..……..………. Juliet Vo I’ll Be Home for Christmas….………..……….Reese Wineroth

Dancers Allison Brown Aurora Farrell Daniella Jones Alizea Hinz Julia Roldan Katelyn Such

Sunday Blue Christmas…………………..………………. Lexi Villanueva The Christmas Song…..…………………………… Amanda Valle Winter Wonderland……………..………………… Sammy Osuna Little Drummer Boy……..………….………..………. Casey Fort Annemarie Verkuylen I’ll Be Home For Christmas….………..……….Reina Sambrano

The Royal Concert The Waltz of the Flowers……….……………….…………………….……..…….……..……..….…………………….……………………….…. Tchaikovsky Madrigal Feast Orchestra Mixolydian Entrada……….…………………………………………………….…………………………………………………………….…………… Michael Joy Ding Dong Merrily on High….………………………………………………..…………………………………………………………………..….. Fred Gramann Handbell Ensemble Veni, Veni Emmanuel….……….…………………………………………………………………………..………………………………………….……. Traditional Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing….………………………………………………….……………………………………………..……. arr. Mack Wilberg Combined Choirs

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O Holy Night…………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………….….. Adolph Adan, arr. John Leavitt Andrew Estrada Do You Hear What I Hear?..…………….…………………….……..…….……..……..….…………………….……………………….…. arr. Harry Simeone Vivace Gesu Bambino……..…………….…………………………………………………………….…………… Frederick Martens & Pietro Yon, arr. Mark Hayes Amy Busch or Amie Fillet Follow That Star….…………………….………………………………………..…………………………………………………………………..….. Jay Althouse Troubadors God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen….……….…………………………………………………………..………………………………………….……. arr. Ben Bram A Cappella Let it Snow!….………………………………………………….……………………………………………..……. Sammy Cahn & Julie Styne, arr. Mark Hayes Concert Choir Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas……..…………….…………………………………….…..Hugh Martin & Ralph Blane, arr. Calvin Custer Keely Gaeta or Victoria Goodkind or Emily Silva We Three Kings..….……….………………………………………………………………………………………………………… John Hopkins, arr. Andy Beck Kingsmen All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth….…….……..……………………………..……………. Donald Y. Gardner, arr. Matthew Prins Handbells White is the Winter Night….……………………………………………………………………………………………………..…….Enya, arr. Audrey Snyder Cabaletta Man With the Bag…..…..……………………….……………………..…………. Harold Stanley, Irving Taylor & Dudley Brooks, arr. Rick Stitzel Emily Silva or Grace Whitley Gaudete!…..…..……………………….……………………………………………………………………………………………………. Arr. Michael Engelhardt Bel Canto Christmas Lullaby…..…..…………………………………………………………………………………………..….………………………. Jason Robert Brown Sarah Ledesma or Alyssa Schickling Alleluia…..…..……………………………………………………………………………………………………….………….………………………. Jake Runestadt Chamber Singers Sleigh Ride…..…..…………………………………………………………………………………………..………………….……………………….Leroy Anderson Madrigal Feast Orchestra Jubilate Deo…..…..………………………………………………………………………………………………..……………….………………………. Dan Forrest Combined Choirs Adeste Fidelis…..…..…………………………………………………………………………….………………………. John F. Wade, arr. Cynthia Dobrinski Sing a Long Peace, Peace…..…..………………………………………………………………………………………….……….………………………. Rick and Sylvia Powell Combined Choirs March of the Toys…..…..…………………………………………………………………………………….……………….……………………….Victor Herbert Madrigal Feast Orchestra

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Entire THE ROYAL COURT - Chamber Singers Anthony Barajas Christopher Barry Logan Bautista Amy Busch Katherine Criger Morgan Cummings Andrew Estrada Amie Fillet Casey Fort

Keely Gaeta Chadwick Gaitan Victoria Goodkind Igor Grabowsky Christina Habeeb Anthony Helman Kiana Hernandez Alexander Josten Daniel Kubeck Calista Joanne Lat

Sarah Ledesma Jonathan Lefebvre Kyra LoRe Matthew Ludovico Jaydah Mabini Cameron Martinez Daniel Mejia James Mitchell Aidan Mulholland Justin Nguyen

Thoa Nguyen Lucy O'Hara Luke O'Hara Katelyn Osuna Nicholas Park Mateo Ramirez Dario Rimicci Alyssa Schickling Sarah Schulist John Shepherd

Emelia Silva Victoria Silva Mitchell Stewart Michael Torres Amanda Valle Nicholas Van Dalsem Jazlynn Verduzco Victoria Villarreal Grace Whitley

Madeline Mageean Emily Manzur Karina Marconi Sophia Marks Madison McCurdy Danika McKee Caroline Menzia Jasmine Moallem Jordan Moos Alejandra MorenoMustafa Elizabeth Nguyen Nicole Nguyen Kathy Nguyen-Ly

Alora O'Bryan Gleason Samantha Osuna Nessa Pham Angeline Phu Tyler Prado Amanda Riedl Kennedy Roberts Hollis Robinson Julia Roldan Meagan Rood Rebekah Saint Anthony Miranda Salazar Reina Sambrano Sydney Sarmiento Hanna Schulte

Hayley Skonieczny Natalie Smale Alexia Thornberry Adriana Torres Angelina Tran Claire Trotter Sara Urner Elena Van Eenenaam Annemarie Verkuylen Alexis Villanueva Juliet Vo Genevieve Vu Lydia Zepeda Angel Zhu

Kevin Lee Scott Merkwan Brenden Moore Matthew Neustadt Adam Nguyen

Martin Andre Nibungco Jason Pang David Quintanilla Charles Ramirez-Jensen Mitchell Rimlinger

Keith Romero Francis Truong Cesar Venegas Antonino Venti

MINSTRALS - Bel Canto Daniella Arcila Lindsay Beane Sophia Beck Marie Beld Brooke Besikof Marissa Blasing Kalusha Brutlag Aria Buchanan Ashley Bui Juliane Maye Cabuco Logan Cavileer Kelli Chamberlain Maxx Clemente Devyn Copeman

Kristina Crilly Madeleine Dahlin Teresa Dang Melissa Dennin Julia Dilsisian Aurora Ferrell Makenzie Frank Marissa Gallegos Hailey Hanson Grace Hodgdon Aliza Holmes Hannah Hopkins Casey Hulme Kathryn Jimenez Alyssa Jones

ROYAL GUARD - Kingsmen Kenneth Cervantes Nolan Clapp Luke Cortez Matthew DeLong

Daniel Fillet Andres Garcia Leonardo Guillen Lake Kim Kevin Kissinger

MERCHANTS - Handbell Ensemble Chadwick Gaitan Andrew Liwag

Jessica Nguyen Marcus Nguyen

Marco Rimicci Sebastian Saintignon

Emily Upham Katherine Wieland

ROYAL CONSORT - A Cappella Andrew Estrada Calista Lat

13 20

Cammie Martinez Justin Nguyen

Thoa Ngiuyen Nicholas Park

Keith Romero Sarah Schulist

Emily Silva Jazzy Verduzco

Consort WENCHES AND KNIGHTS - Concert Choir Maya Alves Peter Baird Allison Barry Linuel Bautista Lucas Belinsky Kaylee Bernal Ana Sofia Botero Taylor Bruder Gabriela Bucio Carlos Bustamante Thomas Campbell Joseph Cefalu Alyson Clark Kyle Conway

Ciara Corbett-Browne Paloma Cornejo Malia Cortez Mariano Crivello Grant Elsenpeter Natalie Erhard Matthew Erwin Evan Eschenburg Lindsey Fitz Abigail Frank William Gibson Alizea Hinz Miles Jourdain-Lamp Jake Kenlein Jacqueline Kerr

Jacinta Kiruku Xinru Liu Juan Lopez Victoria Lopez Ashley Lopez-Romo Matthew Lucescu William Ludovico Chloe Marmaud Kyla Martinez Kayla McIntosh Andrew Mitchell James Moriarty Christopher Mott Gabriela Mourani

Graziella Napoli Britney Nguyen Ethan Nguyen Jennifer Nguyen Lauren Ocampo Chrystal Olazabal Brittney Pena Cameron Pickell Isabella Pietro Stella Pozzuoli Chloe Price Nicholas Quattrocchi Olivia Rangel Martina Rivera Elizabeth Romeyn

Victoria Ruiz Priscilla Santana Chloe Savard Kaden Simcox Gwendolyn Smith Leah Sparks Leanne Brigh Sumbong Evelyn Taylor Tiffany Tran Sean Turk Jiayue Wang Kelsey West Kenneth White Reese Wineroth

WENCHES - Cabaletta Maureen Beld Imani Alexane Brutlag Isabelle Buchanan Vangie Camarena Eliza Contreras Christina Cordero Elizabeth Demster

Rachel Dennin Samantha Dreyer Kylie Eggers Isabella Figueroa Natalie Garcia Jennie Greco Cloe Hughes

Felicia Junanto Kaitlyn Magallon Caroline Marfice Tatiana Marocco Cambria McKee Priscila Mejia Ashley Nguyen

Elizabeth Nguyen Megan Nguyen Rachel Nguyen Allison Nieves Abbey Nosek Samantha Reinberger Kassia Resendiz

Lauren Shepherd Paige Solano Katherine Stagman Alyssa Steele Isabelle Tran Christine Vu Emilie Weaver

WENCHES - Vivace Brittyn Adams Kaitlyn Alday Laura Alfaro Kaitlyn Ambriz Holl Reagan Arvidson Jocelyn Ayala Alexxa Barker Allison Brown Makena Bugarin Arianna Cabada Cameron Cabrera Ellie Crabbe

Olivia De Heras Megan Ettinger Emily Evans Sarah Garcia Mia Guadarrama Abigail Hampton Faithanna Hancock Gabriella Heftved Zaria Henderson Fiona Hernandez Juliette Hill Alyssa Johnson Caroline Kawabe

Lauren Kensel Lily Kunde Vy Mai Kylie Matthews Brooklyn Medwig Claire Menzia Marie Meyerhofer Ashlee Morales Isabella Morin Cecilia Motherway Camille Mras Breanna Nguyen

Curran Nielsen Lily O'Day Kate O'Hara Emily Obel Sarah Obel Sophia Osmena Gianni Palazzolo Kristen Pang Piper Poliquin Michelle Raymondi Brynn Robinson Sheyla Romero Silvia Ruiz

Sadie Schobel Eleanor Seidner Samantha Shapiro Kyra Slutzky Kaitlyn Staats Mekala Valentin Tait Vigeland Fiona Waldron Kendelynn Watkins Caitlin Windross Kate Wynn Brisa Zitko

KNIGHTS of the REALM - Troubadors Noah Aguilar Evan Antonius Joshua Bredehoft Andrew Cervantes Evan Cole Alan Dong

Ethan Duron Daniel Flathom Emmett Gallivan Kade Ganey Declan Glenane Luis Guillen Braden Hinz

Alex Lopez Dario Lopez Noah Mangosing Luke McKenna Tyler Narayan Braxton Nguyen

Jason Nguyen David Nisson Sean O'Hara Blake Penso Kenny Pham Alexander Reed Ian Schoenbaum

Matthew Scully Kevin Sullivan Marco Uribe Justin Vu Justin Whittaker Qiwei Zhou

13 21

Huzzah to our

King and Queen!

From your first feast to the last, your work, care and love for the choral program has always ben exemplary. Amy and Daniel, we all wish you only the best as you face new kingdoms beyond the halls of Mater Dei. Good luck and God Bless!

13 22

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.

23

“

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. “Artistically, 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

24

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

25

spo n sors

Please supporth eour SAVE t DATE generous Mater Deisponsors High School s Annual ‘

l et ScarGRAY

&Cabernet

PREMIER WINE TASTING AND AUCTION Presented by The Shiley Foundation & Checkpoint Communications

FEB

25

2017

OLD RANCH COUNTRY CLUB

Mater Dei ASB gives a standing ovation to all performers!

2901 LAMPSON AVENUE | SEAL BEACH, CA 90740 W W W.M ATERD E I . O R G / A UCT I O N

Tickets are $100 each This special event will feature complimentary wine , beer, spirits and food tasting, live & silent auction, an exquisite dinner and a special after party!

Best Wishes for an amazing season!

Sistine Chapel - 2011

How Do I Join Choir?

It is easy - simply sign up for choir as your elective and you will be placed into Vivace or Kingsmen, the Women’s or Men’s Ensemble.

FAQs

To audition for an advanced group, email jmiller@materdei.org

26

Can I play a sport and still join choir?

- Absolutely - current choir members are varsity athletes in almost every discipline Are there many after school obligations?

- Generally no, with the exception of Madrigal Feast and a few festivals Do I need any experience to join?

- No, none at all. If you can talk, you can sing! www.materdei.org/choir

Are there any future travel opportunities with the choir?

- Yes - We are traveling to Boston this school year, and that opportunity presents itself every few years.

Every other year we travel internationally and there is a great trip in the works for next year!

31

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Unending thanks to the Mater Dei High School Administration, Faculty and Staff for their steadfast support of the Choral Music Department.

Your strength fuels our creativity.

To Scott Melvin: Many of us would not be here if it weren’t for your incredible leadership and vision. Things that most others would refuse to attempt, you tackle head on. It is that conviction and confidence that has built this program to where it is today. I continue to cherish working with you, and hope it continues for many years. A big thank you is also due to your better half, Deb, for her continued work organizing the tickets and tables. She accomplishes a job that seems impossible with ease! I wish you, Deb, and your three beautiful girls a blessed holiday!

To Kent Helwig: What you bring to the Choral Program and to Mater Dei as a whole cannot be measured.

The professionalism and experience you bring to anything and everything you do is a true inspiration. I speak for the students and the other faculty when I say we all love you and all that you bring to everything artistic. I am so grateful for everything that you do!

To Amanda Bistolfo: Thank you for all that you do to balance out the choir department.

You have such wonderful skills that are such a magnificent compliment to what I bring to choral music. It is a blessing to have you here at Mater Dei. Here’s to a great future!

To Allison Spencer: Thank you for all of the work that you’ve done to make the ticket buying and sponsorship process so easy for all of our Mater Dei Families. Your attention to detail makes doing our jobs in the Performing Arts that much easier and more effective. Bless you!

To Wayne and Julie Fort:

Thank you for your wonderful work as your first year of Madrigal Feast Chairs! You have taken on this challenge with style and grace. It is astonishing how you have made such an enormous amount of work seem easy. You have been such an absolute pleasure to work with, and I look forward to more years of your leadership.

To all of the Parent Volunteers: Mater Dei simply has the best parents around – period.

You all go beyond your call and execute things to perfection. Thank you for making this night magical for your kids and giving them the opportunity to shine. It is because of you that they perform – bravo to you all!

To the Students: Your work, your talent, your commitment, and the joy that you bring to your art continues to inspire me.

I have the best job in the world, and that is thanks to each and every one of you. Also, thank you for the model that you set for the Mater Dei Community. I pray for continued excellence in all you do. Toi, Toi, Toi – Be brave, be daring, but above all, be alive on the stage tonight!

To My Family: I’m such a lucky man to have family like you.

My beautiful wife Andrea, you are such a rock in my life, I do not know what I would do without you. To my sweet Tenley, I cannot wait until the day you can witness this incredible event! And to Mason, I’ll see you soon…

To all of you – Merry Christmas!

Justin Miller

Director of Choral Music