WELCOME TO VSC
Welcome to Season 46!
Thank you for joining us for the unforgettable Little Shop of Horrors! We are thrilled to bring this beloved classic to the Wells Theatre, where the perfect mix of comedy, horror, and catchy tunes will keep you on the edge of your seat. Under the direction of the incredibly talented team behind this production, you’re in for a wild, fun experience with a fantastic ensemble cast, many of whom are returning to VSC after memorable performances in past productions.
Productions at Virginia Stage Company are only made possible thanks to the generous support of our community, whether it is through ticket purchases or the contributions of our dedicated donors. Little Shop of Horrors is sponsored by the Virginia Stage Company Board of Trustees, Foundation Directors, and Stage Associates and we are incredibly grateful for the commitments they have made above and beyond their annual support. Les Friedman and Sandy Harris were instrumental in coordinating this sponsorship and bringing this production to life. Les will be honored at this year’s annual gala on May 3rd, alongside corporate honoree Sentara. Tickets to the gala are available now.
The excitement of Season 46 isn’t over yet! After Little Shop of Horrors, we’re bringing even more great performances to the stage. In April, get ready for two one-weekend-only productions: the incomparable Ann Talman presents her acclaimed show Elizabeth Taylor: The Shadow of Her Smile from April 18-20, followed by our fabulous tour of Every Brilliant Thing, returning to the Wells Theatre April 24-27. Both shows will be performed with intimate seating, providing you with a unique and up-close experience you won’t want to miss. Visit vastage.org or stop by the box office to secure your seats today.
As we approach the end of Season 46, we’re excited to announce our 47th season lineup, which will feature a variety of shows sure to have something for everyone. We encourage you to buy your subscriptions now so you don’t miss out on what promises to be another incredible season!
It is an honor to produce a wide variety of theatre that brings people together and fosters a more connected community. Thank you for joining us and for supporting live theatre. Now, lean in and enjoy the show!
Jeff Ryder
Producing Artistic Director Tom Quaintance
Managing Director Jeff Ryder
presented by
THE VIRGINIA STAGE COMPANY BOARD OF TRUSTEES, FOUNDATION DIRECTORS, AND STAGE ASSOCIATES
IN COLLABORATION WITH
NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY THEATRE COMPANY
ANTHONY MARK STOCKARD, PRODUCING ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS
book and lyrics by HOWARD ASHMAN
scenic and puppet designer CHRISTOPHER TULYSEWSKI
sound designer MICHAEL BOSO
choreographer BRIANA REED
Season Sponsors
Arts Alliance
City of Norfolk
music by ALAN MENKEN
costume designer JENI SCHAEFER
associate sound designer DANIELLE SAUNDERS
carnivorous Vegetation (Stunt) Consultant GREGG C. LLOYD
casting director EMEL ERTUGRUL
second stage manager
National Endowment for the Arts
The Shubert Foundation
Virginia Commission for the Arts
Media Partners
Audacy
WHRO
WTKR
lighting designer ALYSSANDRA DOCHERTY §
music director CALVIN HITCHCOCK
ny casting director KATJA ZAROLINSKI, KZ CASTING
production stage manager KATHRYN SAM HOUKOM*
assistant stage manager
director TOM QUAINTANCE†
Based on the film by Roger Corman, Screenplay by Charles Griffith
Little Shop of Horrors is presented through special arrangement with Music Theater International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com
Originally produced by WPA Theatre (Kyle Renick, Producing Director)
Originally produced at the Orpheum Theatre, New York City by the WPA Theatre, David Geffen, Cameron Mackintosh and the Shubert Organization
* Member of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States
† The Director is a member of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society, an independent labor union
§ Member of United Scenic Artists, local USA-829 of the IATSE.
‡ Norfolk State University Alum
Little Shop of Horrors is a perfect musical.
Well, it is at least a perfect horror comedy rock musical. A moving love story, an out of this world villain, a beautiful score, fantastic characters, and a razor sharp book - it has earned its place in the pantheon (Greek reference entirely intentional) of all-time greats.
What makes this Little Shop special is our incredible cast and dazzling designers. What a gift it has been to come into rehearsal every day and explore this masterpiece with these artists. On the first day we talked about trusting the material and investing in the stakes. Everyone in Skid Row is under duress. Audrey and Seymour would “ move heaven and hell to get out of here.” Mushnik, who is about to close his “God and customer forsaken” shop, asks the Urchins how they intend to better themselves since they’ve dropped out of school. “Better ourselves? Mister, when you from Skid Row, ain’t no such thing.”
The only characters who are not at the end of their rope are from outside Skid Row. Orin, the dentist. Skip Snip, Mrs. Luce and the other craven opportunists who are looking to make a buck from Seymour, and his “beautiful plant.” And, of course, Audrey Two, from the furthest outside Skid Row - outer space.
SPOILERS AHEAD: Working on Little Shop in 2025, more than 40 years after the off-Broadway debut, it feels like it was written yesterday. Ashman and Menken have created a Skid Row that is both New York and everywhere in the world where people are down on their luck, looking for a way out. With a little nudge from Audrey Two, Seymour decides feeding the morally reprehensible dentist to the plant is largely justified. Orin is an outsider who, it seems, deserves no less. But that step leads to feeding his adoptive father to the plant, and eventually to the destruction of Cleveland, Des Moines - the entire world. The final chorus, though, offers some hope:
HOLD YOUR HAT AND HANG ONTO YOUR SOUL! SOMETHIN’S COMIN’ TO EAT THE WORLD WHOLE! IF WE FIGHT IT, WE STILL GOT A CHANCE.
So - if a manipulative, colorful monster appears, telling you all the things you want to hear, offering to give you everything your secret, greasy heart desires, DON’T FEED THE PLANTS!
Tom Quaintance
MUSIC
ACT I
Prologue (“Little Shop of Horrors”) —Chiffon, Crystal, and Ronette
“Skid Row (Downtown)” —Company
“Da-Doo” —Chiffon, Crystal, and Ronette (with Seymour speaking)
“Grow for Me” —Seymour
“Ya Never Know” —Mushnik, Chiffon, Crystal, Ronette, and Seymour
“Somewhere That’s Green” —Audrey
“Closed for Renovation” —Seymour, Audrey, and Mushnik
“Dentist!” —Orin, Chiffon, Crystal, and Ronette
“Mushnik and Son” —Mushnik and Seymour
“Sudden Changes” —Seymour
“Feed Me (Git It)” —Audrey II and Seymour
“Now (It’s Just the Gas)” —Orin and Seymour
“Coda (Act I Finale)” —Chiffon, Crystal, Ronette, and Audrey II
ACT II
“Call Back in the Morning” —Seymour and Audrey
“Suddenly, Seymour” —Seymour, Audrey, Chiffon, Crystal, and Ronette
“Suppertime” —Audrey II (with Seymour and Mushnik speaking)
“The Meek Shall Inherit” —Company
“Sominex/Suppertime II” —Audrey and Audrey II
“Somewhere That’s Green” (reprise) —Audrey (with Seymour speaking)
“Finale Ultimo (Don’t Feed the Plants)” —Company
THE PRODUCTION RUNS APPROXIMATELY 2 HOURS AND 15 MINUTES WITH A 15 MINUTE INTERMISSION.
Audrey .......................................................................................... CREE CARRICO*
Crystal ............................................................................................ SHAANI DENT*◆‡
Seymour Krelborn .................... DIEGO ECHEVERRIA DE CORDOVA*
Puppeteer ........................................................................ ROOK A. HADDOCK
Orin Scrivello & Others ..................................................... DARIUS HARPER*
Ensemble .................................................................................... GREGG C. LLOYD
Voice of Audrey II ............................................................... ROBYN RIDDICK
Chiffon ......................................................................... JHAYDA WASHINGTON◆
Mr. Mushnik .................................................................... SCOTT WICHMANN*
Ronette ...................................................................... TERESA (NIKKI) WILSON ◆‡
Understudies and covers never substitute for listed player unless a specific announcement is made at the time of performance.
For Chiffon, Crystal, Ronette - CORASHA DENT ◆‡ , SHARNECIA JONES ◆; for the voice of Audrey II - SHAANI DENT *◆‡ ; for Seymour, Orin et. al. - RAYMOND DIMAANO; for Audrey - OLIVIA
JOHNSTON; for Mr. Mushnik - GREGG C. LLOYD; for PuppeteerYAYRA MCGODFRED Dance Captain SHAANI DENT*◆‡
MUSICIANS
WSKID Interviewer SAMUEL W. FLINT
Piano/Conductor ........................................................... CALVIN HITCHCOCK
Keyboard ............................................................................. BARTON KUEBLER Guitar .................................................................................................. ELDON SULLY Bass ................................................................................................. JORDAN PONZI
Bass Sub ...................................................................... NICHOLAS CRESSOTTI
Guitar .................................................................................................. ELDON SULLY
Percussion
HOWARD ASHMAN (Book and Lyrics) Howard Ashman was one of the most notable lyricists for the Disney Renaissance era of animated musicals. In addition to his work with Alan Menken on Little Shop of Horrors, the pair also worked together to produce the music and lyrics for Disney hits like The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and Aladdin In addition to writing the book and lyrics to Little Shop of Horrors, he also directed the 1982 Off-Broadway premiere. In 1991, Ashman passed away tragically from complications of the AIDS virus. The dedication to his memory in the 1991 film Beauty and the Beast reads: “To our friend Howard, who gave a mermaid her voice and a beast his soul. He will be forever missed.”
ALAN MENKEN (Music) Little Shop of Horrors was a break-through hit for Alan Menken. Its premiere proved to be the highest grossing Off-Broadway show of all time and remains one of the most-produced musicals for high schools in the United States. His work with Disney musicals spans the stage and screen with hits like The Little Mermaid (1989 film and 2008 musical), Beauty and the Beast (1991 film and 2017 live action film), Aladdin (1992 film, 2014 musical, and 2019 live action film), Pocahontas, Hunchback of Notre Dame, Enchanted, and Tangled. Menken is also known for other Broadway hits like Sister Act the musical and Newsies. Alan Menken has won eight Academy Awards, seven Golden Globe awards, and a Tony Award over the span of his 50-year long career.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SHOW ON OUR BLOG: A Whole New (Hungry) World: How LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS Shaped Disney’s Renaissance vastage.org/hungryworld
Broadway Musicals: A Jewish Legacy vastage.org/broadwaylegacy
Doo-Wop, Drama, and a Dash of Horror: The Musical DNA of LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS vastage.org/LSdna
LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS: Science Fiction, Satire, and the Cult of the Killer Plant vastage.org/scifiLS
Be courteous to your neighbor:
Please silence your cell phone and all other electronic devices so that you, and those around you, can enjoy the show without distraction. Video recording and photography are strictly prohibited.
An AED defibrillator is available in the lobby near the restrooms in case of emergencies. For use, please contact the House Manager and a trained member of our team will use the device.
Let us know what you think! Tag us @vastage or share your thoughts directly with us at vastage.org/feedback.
MOBILITY ACCESSIBLE SEATING
ADA Accessible Seating is available for all of our productions at the rear of the orchestra with easy access for patrons with wheelchairs and walkers. Row M has been renovated with larger dimensions for comfort.
ASSISTIVE LISTENING DEVICES
Our state-of-the-art-infrared assisted listening system provides top of the line listening assistance either through headsets available at the box office or directly into personal hearing aids equipped with a t-coil.
ASL INTERPRETED PERFORMANCES
The second Saturday evening of every performance features ASL Interpreters who translate the entire show in American Sign Language. ASL Interpreting was made possible by The Language Group.
OPEN CAPTION PERFORMANCES
At our Open Caption Performances, a screen placed near the stage displays the spoken dialogue on our second Saturday matinee. This allows patrons with hearing disabilities the opportunity to see the stage action and not miss a single word. Available through a partnership with Access Virginia
AUDIO DESCRIPTION
Patrons with vision disabilities can listen to a description of the visual aspects of the performance described live. Available through a partnership with Access Virginia.
SENSORY-FRIENDLY KITS
VSC provides a number of sensory-friendly kits or weighted lap pads at each performance to support audience members with sensory needs. Pick one up free of charge at the Box Office prior to the show. After the performance, all items are to be returned to the Box Office.
ASL Interpreters SHERRY PARSONS, KELLY MANN, ALYSSA STURM
A1 DANIELLE SAUNDERS
A2 SIDNEY JAMES
Carpenters DELONA BEAN, TIA COLLIER
Deck Crew CASSIE KING, SOPHIA KAMINARIS, HANNAH GENBERG
Electricians LUCAS GUZZO, EMILY LUTZ
Fly Operator NAT BAZINET
Light Board Operator KYLIE SORBER
Paint Assistants DEANNA HAMMOND, NANITA KOVALIK
Paint Intern MCKENZIE LADNER
Puppet Construction CHRISTOPHER TULYSEWSKI
Additional Puppet Construction DELONA BEAN, AARON BINKLEY, AUDREY BIRD, TIA COLLIER, DANNI ETTEMA, CHELSIE CARTLEDGE ROSE
Scenic Construction Designer BRYCE EMDE
Spot Operators WENDY CLARK, LUKE NORRIS
Wardrobe Crew AUDREY BIRD, CHELSIE CARTLEDGE ROSE
Wig Stylists ANDRA CORRINE ROSENBERG, JENI SCHAEFER, KRYSTAL GONZALEZ
Crew Emergency Covers CRISTINA SHAFARMAN, LUCAS GUZZO, MARLEY HAUGEN, KIM FULLER, APRIL THREET, EMILY LUTZ
Overhire CASSIE KING, TIARA DIMOND, CORY STEIGAR
LOGAN BENNETT, ELISA POZSONYI, CALVIN POZSONYI, BROCK BAIRD, JAYCOB LEH, PAUL LASAKOW, NASIR BROWN, AMIR MOORE, ELIJAH RIGHTER, CRISTINA ROSE, BRYAN ZAMORA, AARON BINKLEY
Hans Herst, Sean Harrington, Mo De Poortere, Rabbi Michael Panitz, United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, Virginia Wesleyan University Theatre Department, Onyx, Vino Culture, Neptune’s Fury, Elite Custom Cakes, Ghent Barbers, Changes City Spa, Roadstead Montessori High School
FROM OUR COLLABORATION
PARTNER
Having recently celebrated my 10th year at Norfolk State University, it has prompted many moments of retrospection on what has been accomplished over the last decade. One of the most significant developments aside from our historic National Kennedy Center wins and founding the BA in Drama & Theatre Program occurred just eight years ago, Norfolk State University Theatre Company and Virginia Stage Company embarked on a very rare occurrence – a professional Equity production with virtually all performers being university students and faculty – in our first official co-production, The Wiz. The collaboration was the first of its kind between the two institutions and in America between an Equity house and an HBCU. It has since been a national model for advancement in the strength of college theatre and Equity houses in America. What is perhaps most significant is its undeniable affirmation of the competitive education at HBCUs -- and at Norfolk State University specifically. Amongst all HBCUs in America in the last decade, none have accrued as much national recognition in performance as NSU Theatre Company.
Over the years, our co-productions have tackled Broadway blockbusters, American classics, Shakespeare, holiday classics, original works and more. This production curates another first in the history of the two organizations in that it will be the first time an NSU alumna will take the reins of leadership in management for a show as a professional Equity Stage Manager at the stage company. Ms. Tia Collier, who will become the first NSU Alum to professionally stage manage at VSC, will be in good company with NSU Theatre Company cast members! Thank you to everyone at VSC, the Equity actors and professionals who give this unique training experience its value and everyone who has had a hand in curating and nurturing this partnership and this production!
Upward & Onward,
Professor Anthony Mark Stockard
Producing Artistic Director
Norfolk
State University Theatre Company
CONTRIBUTORS
DIRECTOR’S CIRCLE
($50,000+)
INDIVIDUALS
Ms. Joan Brock
David & Susan Goode
INSTITUTIONS
Arts Alliance
Dollar Tree Stores
Hampton Roads Community Foundation
Atlantic Dominion Distributors/ Hoffman Beverages
Clearstead Advisory Solutions
The Perry Family Foundation
Virginia Natural Gas, INC.
Bank of America
Birdsong Peanuts
Kaufman & Canoles
Wilcox & Savage, P.C.
Cerity Partners
The Dragas Companies
Dixon Hughes Goodman
Even Keel Wealth Advisors of Raymond James Forvis Mazars
Southern Bank
Wall Einhorn Chernitzer, P.C.
Williams Mullen
The Breeden Companies
Davenport & Company, LLC
The Pruden Foundation
RBA Architects
Within Interior Design, Inc.
The Batten Educational Achievement Fund of the Hampton Roads Community Foundation
City of Norfolk
The Language Group
Sentara Health
The Shubert Foundation
Virginia Commission for the Arts
THEATRE CIRCLE
($25,000+)
INDIVIDUALS
Anonymous
Ann P. Stokes
INSTITUTIONS
The Capital Group Companies
Charitable Foundation
Hampton Roads Community Foundation
The Perry Family Foundation
LEADERSHIP CIRCLE
($10,000+)
INDIVIDUALS
Anonymous
Patrick & Ann Brogan
Mrs. Susan Einhorn
Mr. Leslie Friedman
Mrs. Jan Goldrich
Sandy & Eleanor Harris
Barry & Peggy Pollara
Charles & Lucy Quaintance
Louis & Prudence Ryan
William & Christine Westendorf
INSTITUTIONS
Community Leadership
Partners of the Hampton Roads Community Foundation
Edwin S. Webster Foundation
John and Harriet Malbon Fund of the Hampton Roads Community Foundation
Nancy Spainhour Living Trust
National Endowment for the Arts
Norfolk Southern Foundation
TowneBank
CENTER STAGE
($5,000+)
INDIVIDUALS
Anonymous
Ms. Donna Bausch
Drs. Sarah B. Clarkson & John Herre
Brian H. & Maria T. Fallin
Alan Gollihue & Lane Killiam
Ms. Christina Goode
Ms. Martha Goode
Ms. Verne’t Hatcher
Mr. Jim Hixon
Norman & Sue Hoffmann
Claus Ihlemann & Robert Roman
Stephen Leaman
Brian & Patti Maddox
Mrs. Oriana McKinnon
Tom & Christie Nicholson
Mr. & Mrs. John S. Shannon
Sterzing Charitable Trust
Mrs. Barbara Stokey
Jason Wallace
INSTITUTIONS
ADS
Chartway Promise Foundation
Chesapeake Fine Arts Commission
David R. Goode CLAT
E.T. Gresham
LifeNet Health
Portsmouth Museum & Fine Arts Commission
Virginia Beach Arts & Humanities Commission
Virginia Stage Foundation
WELLS SOCIETY
($2,500+)
INDIVIDUALS
Anonymous
Thomas & Nancy Botts
Richard & Anna Boykin
Lynn Cobb & Warren Richard
Dave & Elaine Charney
Leroy & Cora Collins
Mr. & Mrs. Alexander Conner
Mr. & Mrs. Keith Curtis
Antoinette Davidson
Betty Harmon Edwards
Brian & Inger Friedman
Franklin L. Greene, Jr.
Brian & Jackie King
Heather Langston
Dr. & Mrs. Donald Lipskis
Mr. & Mrs. George Metzger
Ray & Lynn McCue
Tom & Carol Mueller
Drs. Scott & Sharon Reed
C. Arthur & Shirley Robinson
Audrey Settle
Mike & Leslie Shroyer
Alison Smith
Mr. & Mrs. Rony Thomas
Ms. Jennifer Urquhart
Bruce & Holly Weber
Eugene & Brenda Winston
INSTITUTIONS
ABNB Community Foundation
Franklin Southampton Charities
Newport News Arts Commission
Shephard Family Foundation
Southeast Virginia Community
Foundation – Chisholm
House Fund
Southern Bank
Virginia Stage Associates
Willcox & Savage P.C.
PATRON ($1,000+)
INDIVIDUALS
Avraham Ashkenazi
Clay Barr
Wendy & Ron Brodsky
Dr. Jeanne Burger
Tony & Jackie Corletto
Greg Cutter
Lamar Dixon
Dianne Epplein & John Patton
Dr. Charlette Fairchild
Mrs. Juanita Felton
Steve & Nancy Fuschetti
Mr. Stephan Gordon
Barbara Gornto
Paul & Carolyn Gottlieb
John & Gayle Greene
Jacqueline Herst
Michael & Gene Hubbard
T. Hubbard & Christy Hamlin
Bob & Nancy King
Mrs. June-Marie Lam
A.J. & Laura Langa
Dan & Gayle Lemieux
Cathy Coleman Maston
Mr. & Mrs. Colin M. McKinnon
Penny & Peter Meredith
Gayle V. Nichols
Mrs. Norman Olitsky
Mrs. Juanita Raisor
Meredith & Cindy Rose
Conrad Shumadine
Mr. Lawrence L. Steingold
Suzanne Stetkevych
Dr. William H. Ward
William & Sandra Warden
Emily Washington
Jane & Larry Waters
Larry & Martye White
Randy Wisswell
Bryon & Chris Work
Mr. Thomas Young
INSTITUTIONS
Ameriprise Financial
Benevity Impact Fund
Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies Matching Gift
Keith & Carol Naumann
Charitable Gift Trust – Donor
Advised Fund of The US
Charitable Gift Trust
Southeastern Theatre Conference
Suffolk Fine Arts Commission
Warden Family Foundation
Williamsburg Area Arts Commission
ENSEMBLE ($500+)
INDIVIDUALS
Anonymous
Chris Abbate
William & Carole Aitken
Helen & Warren Aleck
Ann Baldwin
Mr. & Mrs. Gary Baum
Mrs. Aden Beavers
Dr. & Mrs. S.W. Berg
Bruce T. & Sarah Bishop
Andrea S. Clontz
Don & Sue Comer
Mrs. Bess P. Decker
Carie Curry Cutter
Mr. Lamar Dixon
Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence Epplein
Mrs. Carey J. Flannery
Mr. & Mrs. David C. Fuller
Mr. & Mrs. Harold Goode
Drs. Ranjit & Lakshmi Goudar
Dr. C.W. Gowen, Jr.
Mr. & Mrs. William Gresham, Jr.
Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Hartshorn
Gay Goldsmith & John Brush
Mrs. Pat Hodge
Connie Jacobson
Heather Jordan Khan
Mr. Kurt Krause
Tyler & Sunshine Leinbach
Dr. Edward L. Lilly
Ms. Toni A. Lohman
Jonathan Miller & Barbara Chapman
Ms. Siobhan Miller
W. Reynolds & J.A. Monach
James & Phyllis Noonan
Vince & Patty Olivieri
Ms. Ann Odell
Col. & Mrs. Eric F. Peterson
William Redd
John & Mary Reinhart
Allan & Harriet Reynolds
Dana & Jeff Rosen
Jeff Ryder
Dr. & Mrs. Ivan R. Schiff
Win & Jane Short
Sandra & Bradley Simpson
Ms. Patricia K. Smith
Dr. & Mrs. Charles Stuppard
Mr. & Mrs. William Swartz
Ms. Gail Thompson
Pat Walsh
Elemuel Watts
Mr. William L Weber, III
Mr. & Mrs. Samuel J. Webster
INSTITUTIONS
Battelle Employee Matching Gifts
Alan & Esther Fleder Foundation
APPLAUSE ($250+)
INDIVIDUALS
Mr. Derek Anders-Turner, Jr.
Anonymous
Robert & Judy Barker
John & Jeanne Bowers
Jared & Whitney Brooks
Ms. Willia Campbell
Charlotte & Joe Carriker
Minette & Charles Cooper
Janis & Wayne Davis
Raymond DeFrank
Steven L. Doane
Carroll G. Frohman
Clayton A. Gearheart
Ms. Jane K. Goldman
Vicki Goldrich
Mr. & Mrs. Craig Grube
Stephen & Kim Hall
Lisa Harman-Wakefield
Laurie Hasten
Mrs. Belinda Hester
Mr. & Mrs. Dave Houglum
Dr. Sylvia Hudgins
Veronica Irwin
Mrs. Constance Jones
Raymond & Catherine Kallman
Joan Saunders Kennedy
Mr. Garrett Krause
Jo Manley
James & Shelley Marrion
Mrs. Carolyn Abron-McCadden
Ms. Margaret Merritt
Thomas & Gabriella Miller
Mr. & Mrs. Ray Moses
Ms. Concetta Pagley
Mr. & Mrs. Mike Pampalone
Dr. Thomas C. Phelps
Kim Pici
Mr. & Mrs. William A. Prince
Mr. & Mrs. George Raiss
Mr. Robert Reardon & Ms. Nancy Bazin
Mr. Tom Reel
Ms. Robin Reeves
Dennis & Susie Rowley
Stanley & Linda Samuels
Dr. & Mrs. Robert Seeherman
Mark Seelenbinder
Randy & Phyllis Shannon
Dr. Robert Singleterry, Jr.
Dr. & Mrs. Charles Stuppard
Jillian Swenson
Mr. & Mrs. Justin Topping
John & Karen Tucker
Pat Walsh
Karen Ward
Ashlin & Wayne Wilbanks
Deborah & John Wyld
Joe & Peggy Young
Michelle Ellis Young
Norman Zwahlen
INSTITUTIONS
Benevity Community Impact Fund
The Lawson Family Fund of the Hampton Roads Community Foundation Network for Good
Norfolk Southern Good Governance Fund
IN HONOR OF
Susan Einhorn
Ron & Wendy Brodsky
Jackie King
Andrew Melissinos
Carol Mueller
Lynn Cobb
Barry & Peggy Pollara
Ann Roesch
Chris & Clarence Warnstaff
Lisa Harman-Wakefield
IN MEMORY OF
Sue Adair
Virginia Stage Associates
Terence Dudash
Nicole DeJesus
Stan Fedyszyn
Judith Fedyszyn
Tom & Lorrie Fedyszyn
Alex & Amy Jakubowski
Lora Jakubowski & Sandeep
Wadhwa
Jerry & Audrey Lazarus
Glenn & Mary Schafer
Martha Hortenstine
Frances G. Allen
Judy Brown
Mary Ann Fussell
Clayton A. Gearhart
Charles & Joan Giovannetti
COVID Book Club
East Beach Book Club
Henry R Hortenstine III
Dan McCowan
Dick & Judy McCullough
Charles & Blanche Nusbaum
Gill Leaman
Stephen Leaman
This listing reflects gifts of $250 or more as of February 17, 2025. If there are any errors in your listing or should you wish to become part of the Virginia Stage Company donor family, please contact Kandis Hyde at 757.627.6988 ext 315 or go to vastage.org/donate.
BOARD & STAFF
VIRGINIA STAGE COMPANY STAFF Leadership Producing Artistic Director Tom Quaintance | Managing Director Jeff Ryder | Senior Management Marketing Director Sean Devereux | Interim Production Manager Emma D. Emde | Operations Manager & Resident Casting Director Emel Ertugrul | Director of Development Kandis Hyde | Associate Production Manager Maryanne Kiley | Finance Manager Tara Moscopulos | Hospitality Manager Melissa Mowry | Director of Design Jeni Schaefer | Director of Enrichment Jordan Setzer | Administration Finance Associate Elisa Pozsonyi | Communications Consulting Marketing Director Jo Manley | Marketing & Graphic Designer Crystal Tuxhorn | Front of House Box Office Supervisor Sara Schaefer | Box Office Associates Mariah Johnson, Kenzie Moyers, Reicse Owen, Cristina Shafarman, Russell Teagle | Guest Services Coordinator Alexis Moyer | House Manager William Rodman | Bartenders Ashleigh Beaird, Gale Blackard, Mackenzie Cowcer, Malia Diaz, Tiara Dimond, Rachel Greene, Sean Luffy, Erin Pretlow, Ava Stevenson, Timothy Suddeth, Kate Thurston, Brooke Warner | Development Development Manager Sarah Frauenzimmer | Development Associate Russell Teagle | Enrichment Enrichment Associate Candunn Jennette | Production Technical Director Maya Bowers | Assistant Technical Director Bryce Emde | Scenic Charge George Righter | Scenic and Props Carpenters Hannah Genberg, Sophia Kaminaris | Costume Shop Manager Meg Murray | Assistant Costume Shop Manager Virginia Bird | Wardrobe Supervisor Krystal Tuzon Gonzalez | Props Manager Danielle Ettema | Lighting & Sound Supervisor Joey Mueller | Audio Engineer Danielle Saunders | Assistant Stage Managers Abbigail LaRocque, Tia Collier
CAST
CREE CARRICO* (Audrey) is “a notably versatile performer” who is delighted to join Virginia Stage Company's production of Little Shop of Horrors! Theatrical credits include: Beggar Woman in Sweeney Todd (Virginia Arts Fest), Sarah Brown in Guys & Dolls (UFOMT), Miss Adelaide in Guys & Dolls (Charlottesville Opera), Eliza Doolittle U/S in My Fair Lady (Utah Symphony Orchestra), Carousel (Lincoln Center). Operatic Credits: Cunegonde in Candide (Opera Tampa, Opera Company of Middlebury, Rapides Symphony), Norina in Don Pasquale and Susanna in Le Nozze di Figaro (Piedmont Opera), Lauretta in Gianni Schicchi (San Francisco Opera). Cast Recordings: The Difficulty of Crossing a Field, Insomnia, Proving Up, The Shards of an Honor Code Junkie. When not performing, Cree runs ButtaBeeFitness, where she makes fitness fun! She would like to thank Tom for this incredible opportunity, her partner and family for supporting her dreams, and the 3 angels watching over her.
SHAANI DENT*‡◆ (Crystal, Voice of Audrey II u/s) is thrilled to return to Virginia Stage Company in Little Shop of Horrors. VSC credits include Dreamgirls (Lorrell Robinson) and The Color Purple (Celie, preview). Other regional credits: Annie (Annette, Ronnie Boylin), A Christmas Carol, and Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Shirelle/Lucille) with Virginia Musical Theatre. Additional credits: Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Armelia McQueen) and The Magic and Music of Motown (Martha Reeves/Gladys Knight). A graduate of Norfolk State University (BFA in Music), ShaaNi is an elementary music and musical theater teacher, dedicated to inspiring young artists. She is especially thrilled to share this production with her sister Corasha Dent and longtime friend Teresa
(Nikki) Wilson. Love and gratitude to her family, mentors, and the VSC team for their support!
DIEGO ECHEVERRIA DE CORDOVA*
(Seymour) is thrilled to be joining Virginia Stage Company for the first time in one of his dream roles! Born in Venezuela and raised in Brookline, MA; Diego’s previous credits include George Gibbs in Our Town (Syracuse Stage) and Lysander in Midsummer Night’s Dream (Redhouse Arts Center). Diego would like to thank Mami, Papi, Dani, Luna y Soleil, his amazing friends, the insanely talented company of Little Shop, his incredible reps at UIA Talent Agency, and all of his educators at Syracuse University for their love, strength, and support through the years! Diego would also like to express his gratitude to you the viewer for supporting live theater and begs you to NOT FEED THE PLANTS! @diegs.alejandro
ROOK A. HADDOCK
(Puppeteer) is excited to be returning to the VSC mainstage! Rook is a current member of VSC's touring production of Greenbeats LIVE! in partnership with WHRO. Previous Virginia Stage credits include The Hobbit and Henry V. You may have also caught glimpses of her working backstage both here and at Zeiders American Dream Theater; most recently for their workshop production of My Brother Death. She would like to thank her family, her friends, and every house plant who ever believed in her. An avid environmentalist, she is excited to help bring Audrey II to life, and to help Mother Nature get her dues!
DARIUS HARPER* (Orin Scrivello & Others) is thrilled to make his Virginia Stage Company debut with Little Shop! Credits include: The Book of Mormon (1st National Tour), Kinky Boots (1st National Tour), After Midnight and most recently the world premiere of The Preacher’s Wife at The Alliance Theatre in Atlanta. Darius originated the emcee and vocalist in Cirque Du Soleil's Volta, streaming on AppleTV, Tubi, Spotify and Apple Music. Thank you to my Hudson Artists Family. Love you nana.
@dariusharius
GREGG C. LLOYD (Ensemble, Mushnik u/s,Carnivorous Vegetation Consultant) has served as Fight Director for many VSC productions, but is excited to be a cast member for the first time. Fight Direction Credits include: Fat Ham, Henry V, The Hobbit, Fences (VSC); Carmen, The Valkyrie, Pagliacci (VA Opera); West Side Story (VA Rep); and Romeo & Juliet (Richmond Shakes). Acting Credits: Krupke in West Side Story (VA Rep); Arthur in Spamalot , Father in Violet, Rothko in Red (Heritage Theatre Festival); Capulet in Romeo & Juliet (VA Shakes); MC/Knight at Medieval Times (Chicago & Dallas). Directing Credits include: Pride & Prejudice, 9 to 5, Spitfire Grill, Pippin, HMS Pinafore, I Hate Hamlet (CNU). Prof. Lloyd is Head of Performance Studies for TheatreCNU at Christopher Newport University and would like to thank his fellow faculty, Dean Jana Adamitis, and his spouse, Laura, for their support and affording him the time to be a part of this production!
ROBYN RIDDICK (Voice of Audrey II) is excited to join Virginia Stage Company's production of Little Shop of Horrors. Credits include: Stage to Screen, Vibeology (Royal Caribbean Entertainment), Vocal Performance (Berklee College of Music). This is her Professional Theatrical debut. She would like to thank her family and friends for their love, support and prayers throughout her career. @robyn__elle
JHAYDA WASHINGTON◆ (Chiffon) is thrilled to join Virginia Stage Company’s production of Little Shop of Horrors. A seasoned performer, she has been gracing the stage since her elementary school days at C.W. Henry in Philadelphia. Recent credits include Reflections (Danielle, J.L. Deans Productions) and The Color Purple (Church Lady Darlene, Norfolk State University). As a solo R&B artist, Jhayda has opened for legends such as Angie Stone, Eric Benét, and more, and even performed for former President Bill Clinton. She recently toured with R&B singer Jacquees, continuing to share her passion for music. A Philadelphia native, Jhayda holds a BAS in Communications and finds joy in all things musical theatre. She dedicates every performance to her late sister, her guiding light. “To my Jenny Jenn, everything I do is for you.” Special thanks to God and her loving friends and family for their unwavering support. IG @jhayda.raquel
SCOTT WICHMANN* (Mr. Mushnik) is proud to return to the Wells. Previous VSC appearances include Sherlock Holmes in A Sherlock Carol, Cardinal Richelieu in The Three Musketeers and Lazar Wolf in Fiddler on the Roof. Recent credits include Black ‘Stache in Peter and the Starcatcher (Firehouse Theatre), part of the all-star ensemble of Sweeney Todd (Va Arts Festival) and Frank Abignale, Sr., in Catch Me If You Can (VMT). Regional credits include A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder, 1776, The Producers, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, and Say Goodnight Gracie (Va Rep); I Am My Own Wife (5th Wall); Brimstone (Berkshire Theatre Festival) The Life of Galileo (Studio Theatre), and Old Tom in The Lost Colony Outdoor Drama. On the small screen, Scott was featured as John Adams in FOX’s Legends & Lies: The Patriots. Other film and TV credits include Lincoln, Loving, TURN: Washington’s Spies, The Red Badge of Courage and The Good Lord Bird. Host of The Richmond Forum with John Lithgow. A graduate of Wagner College, (Staten Island, N.Y.), Scott moonlights as Mister Showtime, a one-man Rat Pack with a killer jazz trio, and proudly serves as a chief petty officer in the United States Navy Reserve. IG: @scottwichmann.
TERESA (NIKKI) WILSON‡◆ (Ronette) is excited to share the stage and her talents with the Virginia Stage Company and her fellow castmates. An alumnus of NSU, Teresa has sung with the NSU Concert Choir and Chamber Choir. Teresa’s stage experience includes performances in The Color Purple (Sophia’s sister/Ensemble) (NSUTC) Reflections (Shanae) (J.L. Dean Productions) and Wouldn’t Miss Heaven for The World (Little Faith). A talented singer and actress, Teresa brings passion and dedication to every role she performs. She would like to thank her family, friends, and loved ones for their unwavering love and support. Follow her: @nik_thesinger
CORASHA DENT◆‡ (Urchin Cover) joined The NSU Theatre Company under the direction of Professor Anthony Stockard, where she performed in various shows like A Tribute to Whitney Houston as Cissy Houston, Dreamgirls as Effie White, and The Wiz as Soprano 1/Ensemble (VSC collaboration). Corasha has performed in productions with regional theatre companies in Hampton Roads such as The Virginia Stage Company, NIVLACO productions, and J. L. Dean productions. Corasha earned her Master’s degree in Nursing Education from Regent University in 2022. She currently works as a nursing professor for NSU’s Department of Nursing. Corasha has directed music for productions such as Queen’s Tribute, The Color Purple and In the Red & Brown Water (NSU). Corasha is thrilled to share the stage with her sister, ShaaNi. Corasha would like to thank her family for their support.
SHARNECIA JONES◆ (Urchin Cover) Sharnecia “Necie Jayy” Jones, hailing from Fort Pierce, Florida, developed a deep passion for the arts from an early age. Sharnecia pursued her academic journey at Valencia College in Orlando, Florida, where she began to hone her skills and expand her knowledge in the field of fine arts. Sharnecia’s dedication to drama and performance led her to Norfolk State University,
where she performed in shows such as The Color Purple (Sofia), Reflections (Keisha) and In the Red and Brown Water (Aunt Elegua) under Anthony Stockard. The professional training she received there provided a solid foundation in drama and theatre, setting her up for a promising career in the performing arts. In addition to her passion for theatre, Sharnecia is an accomplished vocalist with a broad range of musical genres under her belt. For over 10 years, she has been performing and captivating audiences with her voice, mastering different styles and developing a versatile skill set. Beyond her artistic endeavors, Sharnecia works within Norfolk Public Schools, where she nurtures the next generation of creative minds. Her work spans both fine arts and science, reflecting her belief that creativity and academic excellence go hand in hand. Now a proud resident of Hampton Roads, Sharnecia continues to pursue her passion for both the arts and education.
RAYMOND DIMAANO
(Seymour, Orin et. aln
Cover) is delighted to be back at Virginia Stage Company! He is a Proud AAPI/BIPOC Performer and a Designer. Ray has done makeup design for Broadway productions including recently The Cottage (Hayes Theater), Macbeth (Longacre Theater) with Daniel Craig, Mrs Doubtfire (Sondheim) as well as the UK production (pre-West End) Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat one night show at the Lincoln Center. Performing Credits: The King and I (Broadway National Tour), Tiananmen: A New Musical (Phoenix Theater Company) Rathskeller (The Zeiders American Dream Theater), Guys and Dolls (Virginia Stage Company), Mary Poppins (Virginia Rep), Annie, A Christmas Carol, Evita, Catch Me If You Can, School of Rock, Grease, Mamma Mia, Beauty and the Beast, Mame, Hello Dolly, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (VMT), A Christmas Story (Riverside), Oktoberzest( Busch Gardens), The Lost Colony (Waterside Theater). Ray is part of UPAC (The Underground Performing Arts Collective) who believe in producing works that reflect underrepresented communities and allow for creative exploration and collaboration! Thanks to all my family and friends for the constant support! insta @Raydimaano
OLIVIA JOHNSTON (Audrey Cover) is a senior studying in the Musical Theatre department at the Governor’s School for the Arts. Although this is her VSC debut, you may have caught her on the Wells’ Stage last spring in GSA’s Something Rotten! Her favorite past credits include Angie in Heart of Hearing, Jane Seymour (cover) in Six: The Teen Edition, and a featured soloist in GSA’s 2024 tour of Japan, SING! She would like to thank Jackie and Cassie King for being the strong female leaders in her life that Audrey never had. @oliviafjohnston
YAYRA MCGODFRE (Puppeteer Cover) is delighted to work with VSC once again. Her most recent credits include The Elf and the Reindeer with Children’s Theatre of Hampton Roads, A Soulful Christmas: A Groovy Musical Revue with the Underground Performing Arts Collective, and Dracula, A feminist revenge fantasy really on The Wells stage. Yayra studies Theatre Arts at, and has made several appearances on, the Tidewater Community College stage, her most current show there being The Cry of the Peacock. She is also presently working as a part of VSC and WHRO’s touring educational show, GreenBeats Live!
CREATIVE TEAM
TOM QUAINTANCE† (Director/Producing Artistic Director) is in his ninth season with Virginia Stage Company. At the Wells, Tom has directed The Three Musketeers, Henry V, A Merry Little Christmas Carol, Pride and Prejudice, The Santaland Diaries, Matilda The Musical and Every Brilliant Thing. He also directed the tour of Every Brilliant Thing, which continues across Virginia. Regionally Tom directed Twelfth Night at the Guthrie Theater, and as an Associate Artist at PlayMakers Repertory Company he directed An Enemy of the People, Shipwrecked! An Entertainment, The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby, and
The Little Prince. As Artistic Director of Cape Fear Regional Theatre, Tom produced over 35 plays and directed many others, including the World Premiere of Downrange: Voices from the Homefront, a play based on interviews with military spouses from Fort Bragg. As the founder of FreightTrain Shakespeare in Los Angeles, he earned a Drama-Logue Award for his direction of Pericles. Other Los Angeles credits range from King Lear to The Devil With Boobs. A member of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society, Tom is a graduate of Wesleyan University (Middletown, CT) with a B.A. in Theatre and Economics, and the University of California, San Diego MFA directing program, where he was the assistant director on the original production of The Who’s Tommy. Tom and his wife Wallis are the proud parents of Mireille Julia and Annika Christine.
CHRISTOPHER TULYSEWSKI (Scenic and Puppetry Designer) is excited to work again with long time friend and collaborator, Tom Quaintance, at Virginia Stage Company. He also finds it difficult to say no to Little Shop of Horrors - call it an addiction. Scenic and Puppetry Design credits include: Avenue Q (CFRT), The 39 Steps (CFRT and Virginia Theatre Festival), Little Shop of Horrors (Sierra Canyon School). Scenic Design Credits include: JCS and Pride & Prejudice (CFRT), Sweeney Todd (Playmakers Rep SYC/CFRT Co-Production), Buried Child (Whitefire Theatre LA). Broadway credits include: Legally Blonde the Musical (Creative Producer). Love and thanks to partner Sean for caring for the dogs, cats, and fish back in Los Angeles in my absence (I know it’s a big ask).
JENI SCHAEFER (Costume Designer) is the Director of Design and Resident Costume Designer at the Virginia Stage Company in her 23rd season. Regional credits include: The 39 Steps at Westport Country Playhouse, The 39 Steps at White Heron Theatre, A Christmas Story at Arkansas Repertory Theatre, Hound of the Baskervilles at The Hangar and White Heron Theatre, Always...Patsy Cline PCPA Theatrefest, World premiere of Tom Jones for Florida Studio Theatre, Wit for Playmakers Repertory Theatre. VSC productions include; Arsenic and Old Lace, The Three Musketeers, Dial M for Murder, Henry V, The 39 Steps, The Hobbit, Every Brilliant Thing, Dreamgirls, Merry Little Christmas Carol, Dear Jack Dear Louise, Hold These Truths, Sense and Sensibility, Guys and Dolls, Matilda, Secret Garden, Fun Home, Always Patsy Cline, Crowns,The Hound of the Baskervilles, Pride and Prejudice, The Wiz, and many others. Jeni Schaefer holds a MAC in Theatre/Costume Design from Wichita State University. Thank you to my family Tony, Sara and Ethan for being my inspiration and for always believing in me.
MICHAEL BOSO (Sound Designer) Virginia Stage Company: The Parchman Hour, A Raisin in the Sun, Billy Bishop Goes to War, A Moon For the Misbegotten, Centennial Casting, Hank Williams: Lost Highway, The Piano Lesson, Doubt, To Kill a Mockingbird, A Christmas Carol (2005 and ‘06), Crowns, Contact, and The Taste Test. Kentucky Shakespeare Festival (Resident Sound Designer 2005-2010): The Tempest, Richard III, Much Ado About Nothing, Julius Caesar, Pericles, Twelfth Night, Measure for Measure, The Taming of the Shrew, As You Like It, Romeo and Juliet (2005, 2009), Macbeth (2005, 2009), and The Comedie of Errors. Actors Guild of Lexington (KY): Checking In, Stop Kiss, a.m. Sunday, and Art. Lexington (KY) Musical Theater: Jesus Christ: Superstar. Film/Television- Earth Day Network/Woodsongs, Inc: Walden, The Ballad of Thoreau. Virginia Arts Festival: numerous theatrical/concert events and recordings including Leonard Bernstein’s Mass, Amadeus, Virginia International Tattoo. Michael studied his craft as Audio Engineer of Lexington, KY’s acoustic music Troubadour Concert Series and as Assistant Audio Engineer of the internationally syndicated live-audience folk music radio show, Woodsongs Old-Time Radio Hour.
DANIELLE SAUNDERS (Associate Sound Designer/Audio Engineer
[A1]) is excited to join Virginia Stage Company's production of Little Shop of Horrors. Audio Engineer credits include: Season 45 & 46 [over-hire A1/A2] (Virginia Stage Company), Resident Sound Designer (Black Girls Love the Bard). This marks her debut production as a member of the design team at Virginia Stage Company. Currently serving as the Audio Engineer at the Wells Theater, she is dedicated to building, growing, and collaborating on innovative shows with the design team and production staff. When she’s not behind the mixing console, you might catch her subbing in the pit orchestra, adding another layer to her versatile skill set."
ALYSSANDRA DOCHERTY
§ (Lighting Designer) (she/her) is a two-time Barrymore Award-winning lighting designer based in Philadelphia. After graduating from DeSales University, she continued her training as an apprentice at Goodspeed Musicals in Connecticut. She tours internationally with Koresh Dance Company and BalletX having visited stages in Belarus, Mexico, Bermuda, Serbia, Italy, and all across the USA. At Virginia Stage Company, her work was last seen in The 39 Steps. Selected credits: Tuesdays With Morrie (Delaware Theatre Company); Intimate Apparel, Once on This Island (Arden Theatre Company); The Garbologists (Philadelphia Theatre Company); The Color Purple (Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival), Beautiful: The Carole King Story
(Walnut Street Theatre); The Play That Goes Wrong (1812 Productions). She has also designed for Brian Sanders’ JUNK, Westport Country Playhouse, Hattiloo Theatre, and Florida Repertory Theatre, among others. Her designs have been recognized with Barrymore and Ostrander Award nominations in Philadelphia and Memphis respectively. www.alyssandradocherty.com
CALVIN HITCHCOCK (Music Director/Conductor) is a composer, performer, and music director currently based in Jersey City, NJ. His original music has been described as “impressive” and having “a fine ear for sonority” (Pittsburgh Tribune Review), and has received awards from the Kennedy Center and The American Prize. Calvin holds a Masters in Music Composition from Mannes/The New School. He is most at home at the intersection of music and theatre, working equally as a creator, interpreter, and collaborator. Recently, Calvin was an 2022-23 Artist-in-Residence at the cell theatre in Manhattan, developing his new opera-theatre work PROPHET$. In addition to frequently music directing for worship services and live entertainment, he also writes, arranges and produces shows for theme parks. Selected credits: Dorney Park (Band/Vocal Director), the cell theatre (Composer/Music Director), Windish Entertainment (Music Director/Coach) Busch Gardens Williamsburg (Arranger/Music Director), Opera Praktikos (Music Director), TADA! Youth Theater (Music Director), Columbia University Theatre (Music Director/Orchestrator). He is thrilled to join this talented cast and team for VSC’s Little Shop! IG: @calvinnotalfred www.calvinhitchcock.com
BRIANA J. REED (Choreographer) is elated and grateful to join Virginia Stage Company's production of Little Shop of Horrors. Choreography credits include: Bat Boy The Musical (CCNY), As You Like It (Molloy University), Divinity In Paradox (vildwerk.), Peace Be Still (WWU Residency), Steps On Broadway Academy and Conservatory, Tonya Pinkins' Womyn Working It Out, Tonya Pinkins' NYC Little Island Residency, Vingt-Deux (Ballet Support Foundation). Associate Choreography credits include: Cinderella (TBTS), The Wiz (The Fulton Theatre), The Wiz (New Bedford Theatre). Performance Credits include: The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Ailey II, Beyoncé (MTV VMAS), GMA, New York Fashion Week, SNL, The Get Down (Netflix). Briana is a graduate of The Julliard School. She would like to thank her Mom, Deloris and Sister, Teena, for their love and support and the incredible VSC cast, crew and staff.
EMEL ERTUGRUL (Resident Casting Director) officially joined the Virginia Stage Company team in 2017 but worked on various projects with the company well before. Her first casting adventure was the beautiful production Pride and Prejudice for Season 39. Since then it has been a goal to strengthen and cultivate VSC's relationship with professional local and out of town artists. Each season has provided new challenges and each production a new opportunity to find the perfect showcase of talent. Emel has most recently been seen performing in The Twelve Dates of Christmas on the Wells Stage and currently serves as the Operations Manager for VSC and the Producing Artistic Director for Core Theatre Ensemble.
KATHRYN SAM HOUKOM* (Stage Manager) is happy to be back at VSC. Stage Management credits include: The Bluest Eye (VSC); The Tempest, Dial M for Murder, Vietgone, The Glass Menagerie, Skeleton Crew (Guthrie Theater); White Christmas, Prom (Chanhassen Dinner Theatre); Beauty and the Beast, In the Heights, Annie (Ordway Center); Twelfth Night (Ten Thousand Things); Children’s Theatre Company (19 seasons). Sam started her career in Chicago with Slavs!, Supple in Combat, The Mesmerist and the world premiere of Steve Martin’s Picasso at the Lapin Agile (Steppenwolf Theatre Company). National credits include the Kennedy Center, the Pearl Theatre Company (Off-Broadway) and six seasons with the Contemporary American Theater Festival. Sam is a proud thirty-year member of the Actors’ Equity Association and now serves on the AEA’s Central Regional Board and the National Stage Management Committee. Sam is a McKnight Theater Artist Fellow at the Playwrights’ Center for 2024-25.
TIA COLLIER*‡ (Second Stage Manager) Tia Collier (Stage Manager) is excited to be joining the production of Little Shop of Horrors. Having previously worked as Assistant Stage Manager for A Sherlock Carol and Fat Ham, she is thrilled to return in this new role. A proud graduate of Norfolk State University with a BFA in Performance, Tia is looking forward to collaborating with her Alma Mater in this capacity. She is deeply grateful for God’s continuous blessings and for her new creative home.
ABBIGAIL LAROCQUE* (Assistant Stage Manager) is very excited to be joining Virginia Stage Company's production of Little Shop of Horrors. Previously, she has worked on VSC’s productions of A Merry Little Christmas Carol and Dracula: A Feminist Revenge Fantasy Really as an assistant stage manager. Abbigail is from Virginia Beach and has her B.F.A in Theatre Design & Production from Coastal Carolina University.
Before joining the VSC team she worked at King’s Dominion Halloween Haunt and Winterfest as a stage manager. During the summer she can be found working in Staunton, Va for the Heifetz International Institute of Music as their festival stage manager. She would like to thank her family for their support in her passion for theatre.
JEFF RYDER (Managing Director) has been Managing Director of Virginia Stage Company since March 2022. In addition to his work at VSC, Jeff is proud to serve as the president of the board for Hampton Roads Pride. He is also a member of the Rotary Club of Norfolk, for which he serves as the Director of Fundraising and is a member of the Civic Leadership Institute’s Executive Class of 2025 (best class ever!). Prior to coming to VSC, Jeff served in several roles at Cleveland Play House from 2013 to 2022. Jeff holds a Master of Public Administration Degree from the Levin College at Cleveland State University and a Bachelor’s Degree from Tufts University. At Levin, Jeff was inducted into Nu Lambda Mu, the international honor society for the study of nonprofit management and philanthropy. Jeff also holds a certificate in Diversity and Inclusion for HR Professionals from Cornell University. He has served on the boards of the Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank, Theatre Forward, the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Cleveland, and the Cleveland Professional 20/30 Club. In Cleveland, Jeff was honored to be a part of the Cleveland Leadership Center’s Advanced Leadership Institute and the Cleveland Foundation’s Foundations for Philanthropy Program. Jeff has also been a stage manager at several theatres including Talespinner Children’s Theatre, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, and Berkshire Theatre Festival.
* Member of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States
† The Director is a member of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society, an independent labor union
§ Member of United Scenic Artists, local USA-829 of the IATSE.
‡ Norfolk State University Alum
