9 To 5 Program 2024

OTTERBEIN THEATRE & DANCE and DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC

present

THE MUSICAL

Music & Lyrics by Dolly Parton

Book by Patricia Resnick

Based on the 20th Century Fox Picture Originally produced on Broadway by Robert Greenblatt, April 2009

Arrangements & Additional Orchestrations by Stephen Oremus & Alex Lacamoire Orchestrator

Bruce Coughlin

Directed by Dr. Aviva Helena Neff

Music Direction by Lori Kay Harvey

Scenic Design by Isaac Ramsey

Lighting Design by T. J. Gerckens* ‘88

April 4-7 & 11-13, 2024

Stage Managed by Josie Rocca ‘24

**The Designer is represented by United Scenic Artists Local USA 829 of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees.

Choreography by Cindy Straub

Costume Design by Anna Grywalski

Sound Design by Kitty Mader ‘22

Fritsche Theatre at Cowan Hall

30 S. Grove St., Westerville

9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com

CAST

Violet Newstead .................................................................................................. Phoebe Mock

Doralee Rhodes .............................................................................................. Caroline Bowers

Judy Bernly Kailey Souder

Franklin Hart, Jr. Tres Allison

Roz Keith Melody Cohen

Joe Nick Abouzeid

Dwayne LaBron Foy

Josh Jaxon Gholston

Missy Elizabeth Foster

Maria Brianna Gutierrez-Diaz

Dick Evan Blust

Kathy Ana Kusenberger

Margaret Katelyn Miller

Bob Enright .................................................................................................... Dominic Catrone

Tinsworthy ................................................................................................................... Josh Jaffe

Detective ............................................................................................................... Will Iannitelli

Candy Striper ...................................................................................................... Keliah Schertz

New Employee ......................................................................................................... Ava Meyer

Ensemble

Halle Audette, Evan Blust, Kinsey Calderone, Dominic Catrone, Elizabeth Foster, LaBron Foy, Simone Gelety, Jaxon Gholston, Brianna Gutierrez-Diaz, Will Iannitelli, Josh Jaffe, Elise Karlstad, Ana Kusenberger, Ava Meyer, Katelyn Miller, Keliah Schertz

Judy Understudy ................................................................................................ Keliah Schertz

Doralee Understudy ........................................................................................... Elise Karlstad

Violet Understudy.............................................................................. Brianna Gutierrez-Diaz

Hart Understudy ...................................................................................................... Evan Blust

Roz Understudy ................................................................................................. Katelyn Miller

Assistant to the Choreographer Jane Cook

Dance, Fight & Lift Captains

Halle Audette, Evan Blust

Intimacy Captain Simone Gelety

ORCHESTRA

Conductor Lori Kay Harvey^

Reeds Alex Goetz, Logan Moore

Trumpet 1 Ben Huntoon

Trumpet 2 ............................................... Dr. Jesse Heetland^, Dr. Daniel King^ (sub 4/2, 4/11)

Trombone .......................................................................................................... Nathan Frewen

Drums ............................................................................................................. Tomasz Jarzecki^

Percussion.................................................................................................................. Will Mayer

Keyboard .............................................................................................. Dr. Dennis Davenport^

Guitar 1 ..............................................................................................................Karl Wohlwend

Guitar 2 ............................... Dave Shelton, Zsolt Dvornik (sub 4/6), Greg Wolfram^ (sub 4/13)

Bass ........................................................................................................................... Eric Stratton

^denotes Department of Music Faculty

PRODUCTION STAFF

Chair, Department of Theatre & Dance T.J. Gerckens

Chair, Department of Music Nick Ross

Managing Director ............................................................................................Elizabeth Saltzgiver

Production Manager .................................................................................................. Hannah Hahn

Technical Director ........................................................................................................ Patrick Stone

Costume Shop Supervisor .................................................................................... Anna Grywalski

Movement Coach/Voice Coach ........................................................................... Melinda Murphy

Theatrical Intimacy Director............................................................................. Jeanine Thompson

Director of Recruitment/Administrator .................................................................... Dawn Horne

Assistant Lighting Designer ............................................................................................ Paige Vick

Production Assistant................................................................................................. Allison Bricker

Assistant Stage Manager ..................................................................................... Marshall Duggan

Tech Assistant Stage Manager .................................................................................... Libby Carroll

Assistant Technical Director ......................................................................................... Olivia Rossi

Lead Carpenter .............................................................................................................. Anna Hundt

Carpenter ............................................................................................................... Marshall Duggan

Charge Artist .............................................................................................................. Natalie Neville

Assistant Charge Artist ........................................................................................ Ja Na’Ya Johnson

Properties Lead............................................................................................................... Karen Tylak

Properties Assistants................................................... Connor Christopher, Stephanie Gerckens

Automation Coordinator.................................................................................................. Doc Davis

Weapons Wrangler ...................................................................................................... Libby Carroll

Scenic & Props Run Crew ............... Allison Bricker, Anna Byers, Maren Rhoads, Kateje Palmer

Wardrobe Lead ...............................................................................................................Max Lozada

Wardrobe Run Crew ....................................... Kate Maree Brewer, Maya Cidale, Calvin Freshour, Aidan Heddle, Zella Meyer

Lead Electrician

Luca Fragiotta

Assistant Lead Electrician Ryan Lewis

Light Board Operator Ja Na’Ya Johnson

Spot Light Operators

Electrics Shop Hang Crew

Sound Engineer (A1)

Sound Engineer (A2)

House Manager

Graphic Design

Claire Dillon, Stephen O’Hara

Dominic Catrone, Lili Ducy, Jaxon Gholston, Aidan Heddle, Theodore Marshall

Adrian Casto

Lili Ducy

Ian Kerber

Trevor List

Social Media Libby Carroll, Maya Cidale, Jane Cook, Ana Kusenberger, Katelyn Miller, Stephen O’Hara, Kailey Souder

SCENIC STUDIO ASSISTANTS

Marshall Duggan

Luca Fragiotta

Anna Hundt

Matt Knerr

Natalie Neville

Olivia Rossi

COSTUME SHOP ASSISTANTS

Lili Ducy

Mick Lozada

Theodore Marshall

Nora Root

LIGHTING & SOUND ASSISTANTS

Nathan Frewen

David Graves

Ryan Lewis

Stephen O’Hara

Josie Rocca

Paige Vick

BOX OFFICE ASSISTANTS

Allison Bricker

Katie Debolt

Camden Gelfand

Maggie Glanc

Ja Na’Ya Johnson

MUSICAL NUMBERS

ACT 1

“9 to 5” ..................................................................................

Violet, Doralee, Judy, Ensemble

“Around Here” Violet, Judy, Ensemble

“Here for You” .................................................................................................. Hart, Ensemble

“I Just Might” ....................................................................... Violet, Doralee, Judy, Ensemble

“Backwoods Barbie” Doralee, Ensemble

“Heart to Hart” .................................................................................................. Roz, Ensemble

“Dance O’ Death”...................................................................................................... Judy, Hart

“Cowgirl’s Revenge” ................................................................................. Doralee, Ensemble

“Potion Notion” ............................................................................................. Violet, Ensemble

“Joy to the Girls” ........................................................................................................ Ensemble

“Shine Like the Sun”........................................................... Violet, Doralee, Judy, Ensemble

15-minute Intermission

ACT 2

Entr’acte ....................................................................................................................... Orchestra

“One of the Boys”........................................................................................... Violet, Ensemble

“5 to 9” Roz

“Change It” .......................................................................... Violet, Doralee, Judy, Ensemble

“Let Love Grow” ....................................................................................................... Violet, Joe

“Get Out and Stay Out” Judy

“9 to 5 Finale” ............................................ Violet, Doralee, Judy, Hart, Joe, Roz, Ensemble

SPECIAL THANKS

Emma Davis

Stephanie Gerckens

Nick Hahn

Kyle Krygielski

Gunnar Schmidt

DESIGNER NOTES

SCENIC DESIGN by Isaac Ramsey:

Modern musicals like 9 to 5 often require more critical design thinking than their Golden Age counterparts. Traditional musicals such as those of Rodgers and Hammerstein often fit a “stacked” formula for the scenic designer to just plug in scenic units and drops evenly on stage. 9 to 5 has none of that, and the design must work for a variety of locales in a realistic and imaginative way.

When I first sat down to dig into the libretto I was met with sixteen distinct locations listed in the text. This meant that we would need to either create a unique scenic layout for each or get creative with how the staging would flow. The original production incorporated a massive elevator in the middle of the stage to move units on and off which is not possible in this space so I worked closely with our director to reimagine how different scenes would be laid out. Dr. Neff is brilliant at seeing the big picture and knowing how to simplify it to its essential nature. We were able to make adjustments with lighting, furniture, or actor placement to help tell the story in an effective way.

The next task was to think about what the world would feel like. Even though the material can be very dramatic, I wanted an aspect of playfulness in the design. We decided to use ideas sourced from 1970s offices as well as retro patterns of the era to create a series of portals that frame all of the action of the play. I hope the audience enjoys stepping back in time with us and that the scenery helps draw them into the story while also giving some nostalgic feelings through color and pattern.

Any video and/or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited.

DESIGNER NOTES

COSTUME DESIGN

by Anna Grywalski:

Working on the costume design for 9 to 5 was an interesting process because the musical is an adaptation of a well-known film released in 1980. Many people already have an image in their mind when they think of the film 9 to 5 and the characters in it. I wanted this design to be reminiscent of the movie without copying any of the styles, and at the same time staying true to the script.

The story mostly takes place in an average corporate office, which does not make for very exciting costumes, but capturing the essence of the time period (1979) was very important to me for the overall esthetic of the show. Many of the costumes were acquired after countless hours scouring vintage and antique stores, thrift stores, Ebay, and Etsy, while some key pieces were made in our costume shop. And of course, I had to make sure every costume piece could be danced in!

For the three leading ladies, I wanted to keep to a fairly strict color palette for each of them: Judy in greens and blues, Violet in purples and reds, and Doralee in pinks. The office employees spend Act I in a muted color palette of brown, beige, and grey while their tyrant boss is still in control. Act II brings a more colorful and cheerful vibe as the trio of women take over the office. Judy, Violet, and Doralee each also come into their own in Act II, which I have tried to reflect with subtle changes in their costumes.

The most fun part of designing costumes for 9 to 5 was creating the fantasy sequences. Anything can happen in a dream, and in these I really got to play with fun colors, flashy fringe, and wacky creatures. What’s a musical without rhinestones, right?

Another major part of the design was paying tribute to the one and only Dolly Parton. Because Dolly and her character, Doralee, are so iconic, I had to be sure to represent her well on stage. Some of Doralee’s clothes were inspired by Dolly’s infamous performance costumes of the 60’s and 70’s. Whether she’s a Backwoods Barbie or a Rhinestone Cowgirl, I tried to make her shine! I truly hope you delight in this performance of 9 to 5 that this amazing cast and crew has worked so hard on. Enjoy the show!

LIGHTING DESIGN by T. J. Gerckens:

The characters of 9 to 5 live in a world where people hog-tie their bosses and fantasize about exotic ways to get back at chauvinist pigs. Don’t we all? The female characters, however, and the situations they find themselves in are all too real. Dolly’s take on harassment and discrimination is placed right where you’d expect Dolly Parton to put it: out-front, and with an air of cartoonish fun and Dolly-Parton-Positivity© about it. She lets the absurdity of the sexism remain self-evident and in the end the bigots are comically punished.

As a lighting designer, I embrace the Dolly cheerfulness, the cartoonish world, and relentless Parton-Positivity©. The lighting in the show is bright. It is rich in color. The skies are deeper blue, and often more purple than in daily life. There is texture everywhere. The office is cool and corporate, but even the bullpen is enhanced with an exaggeration of color and brightness. It is a fun world to light!

BIOGRAPHIES

TJ Gerckens (Theatre & Dance Dept. Chair/Artistic Director/Lighting Designer) is the lighting design faculty member at Otterbein University, a USA829 Union Lighting Designer, and proud Otterbein alumnus. At Otterbein, he has designed the lighting for Bright Star, Dance 2022: Find me in the Shadows (with Luca Fragiotta and Sage Wuertzer), Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder, Into a Lamplit Room, Dance 2020: The Wild Within (with John Diver), Chicago, Oklahoma!, Thoroughly Modern Millie, The Diary of Anne Frank, Adding Machine: A Musical, Damn Yankees, Dance 2016: The Goddess, The Crucible, Fiddler on the Roof, Dance 2015: Famously Yours...Forever, Dance 2014: Tell-Tale Poe, and Into the Woods. As a freelance lighting designer, T.J. has been part of the design team for the Tony Award winner and MacArthur Foundation “Genius” Mary Zimmerman for the last 30+ years. Most recently, he designed lighting for the world premiere of the Matchbox Magic Flute at the Goodman Theatre, Swan Lake for the Australian Ballet performing in 4 cities and at the Sydney Opera House, Florencia en el Amazonas, and the new opera Eurydice, by Sarah Ruhl and Matthew Aucoin at the Metropolitan Opera, The Notebooks of Leonardo DaVinci in Chicago, Washington DC, and San Diego, the world premiere of The Steadfast Tin Soldier at Chicago’s Lookingglass Theatre, the recent revival of Metamorphoses at the Guthrie Theatre and Berkeley Rep, and Rusalka at the Metropolitan Opera in NYC. Other notable designs include The Odyssey at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Guys & Dolls in L.A., and Treasure Island at the Lookingglass Theatre and Berkeley Rep. His lighting designs have been seen at regional theatres across the United States, on and off Broadway, and at the Metropolitan Opera. Internationally, he has designed in England, Australia, and at the LaScala Opera House in Milan, Italy. He has received numerous awards for his designs including New York’s Drama Desk Award and Lortel Awards for his lighting of Metamorphoses on and off Broadway, Jefferson Awards for The Odyssey and Metamorphoses in Chicago, and an award for “Exemplifying the Art of Collaboration” given to the Zimmerman design team by Entertainment Design Magazine. T.J. holds a BFA from Otterbein University and an MFA from Boston University. He is married to set designer, and scenic artist Stephanie R. Gerckens.

Dr. Aviva Helena Neff (Director) is an Assistant Professor of Theatre at Denison University and a frequent collaborator with Otterbein University Department of Theatre and Dance. An honors graduate of Goldsmiths College (MA, Applied Theatre), Dr. Neff enjoys working in devised theatre and theatre for social change with participants aged 1-100. She is an ensemble member with Teatro Travieso, which premiered her solo performance, Blood, Earth, Water in 2021, written as part of a practice-as-research Ph.D. at The Ohio State University. Dr. Neff has recently published works on mediatized race and identity, mixed-Black women in Reconstruction-era New Orleans, and inclusive theatre pedagogy. Dr. Neff is very fortunate to serve as a freelance intimacy coordinator and director within the incredible theatre community in Columbus.

Lori Kay Harvey (Music Director, Pianist) is in her 17th year as a member of the musical theatre faculty at Otterbein. She has music directed over 35 shows in central Ohio and throughout the US and has performed extensively as an actor/singer/dancer on both national and international tours and in numerous regional theatres. Recent Otterbein credits include Bright Star, A Little Night Music, Something Rotten, A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder, Into A Lamplit Room, and Chicago. Tour credits: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Grease. Regional: Next to Normal, Beauty and the Beast, Jekyll and Hyde, The Taffetas, Camelot, The Who’s Tommy, Damn Yankees, Brigadoon, Carousel, The Desert Song and The Good War. Concert credits: Soprano soloist with Westerville Symphony, Springfield Symphony and Newark-Granville Symphony, Columbus Dance Theatre

- Claudel - CDT @ 20, Mozart “Requiem ” with The National Chorale (Avery Fisher

BIOGRAPHIES

Hall), Puttin’ On the Ritz with Erich Kunzel and the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra (Carnegie Hall and recorded on TELARC label), and The Magical Music of Disney (Cincinnati Music Hall and Circle Theatre, IN, recorded on TELARC label and GRAMMY- nominated).

Television credits: Sex in the City, Guiding Light, Mel Torme’s Christmas Special, and various commercials and industrials. Education: BS in Voice Performance and Theatre from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. Member of Actor’s Equity Association. Lori Kay and her husband, TJ, live in Galena with their 2 children, Macrae (11) and Clara (8). Huge thanks to the entire creative team, cast, crew, and orchestra for all their talents on this joyful production.

Cindy Straub (Choreographer) has been a member of the Otterbein faculty since 2019 and is grateful for the opportunity to choreograph 9 to 5 along-side the amazing creative team led by Aviva, Lori Kay, and TJ! Cindy fell in love with musical theatre at 16 when she was hired for her first Equity show, Mack and Mabel staring 10-time Tony Award winner, Tommy Tune and future Broadway Choreographer, Randy Skinner. Some of her favorite memories include performing Bob Fosse’s original choreography in Cabaret with Billy Crystal, Hello Dolly with the beloved Betty White, and The King and I with Broadway star, Christine Andreas. While in New York, she joined SAG-AFTRA when hired to perform in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. After traveling the country performing professionally, Cindy traveled to Iceland, Holland, and Germany entertaining our troops in the USO show Queens. With more than a decade of professional performing experience, Cindy continued to dive deep into her role as an educator. A life-long dance instructor, adept at teaching all forms of dance, she has won awards across the country for the technical training of her students as well as her choreography. She has taught master classes and judged for many national dance organizations including Dance Masters. Cindy’s students have gone on to become Rockettes, Broadway performers, professional dance teachers and to perform with Cirque du Soleil, Disney, on cruise ships and other professional venues. Cindy has also choreographed industrials for Broadway Producer, Ric Wanetik including work for Tween Brands, WBNS-TV, and the city of Columbus. She has won the Broadway World Award for Best Choreography three times. Having choreographed more than 100 musicals, favorites include Disney’s Tarzan, The Little Mermaid and Mamma Mia. Cindy holds a BA in Communications from The Ohio State University. She has worked in all facets of news production at two CBS affiliates including work as a morning producer and on-air talent. She currently teaches at her own performing arts academy in Central Ohio. She also recently created a theatre spacing system called “The Performer’s Grid” that helps performers and creative teams easily transition productions from concept and rehearsals to the stage. She would also like to send a special thanks to Josie, Marshall, Allison, Jane, Evan and Halle for their hard work on the production!

Isaac Ramsey (Scenic Designer) is the associate professor of scenic design and joined the theatre and dance faculty in 2022. He teaches courses in Scenic Design, Scenic Painting, Computer Graphics, and Period Styles in addition to mentoring student designers and painters. For Otterbein, Isaac has designed scenery for Cabaret, Everybody, Bright Star, Dance 2022: Find Me in the Shadows, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Prior to coming to Otterbein, Isaac served as the associate professor of scenic design at Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville, GA where he designed many productions including Green Day’s American Idiot, Puffs, Ride the Cyclone, and A Doll’s House Part 2. He is active in several professional organizations and is a regular presenter at the Southeastern Theatre Conference where he has taught workshops on 3D printing, Model Making, and Rending in Procreate. He has designed regionally at the Connecticut Repertory Theatre, Actor’s Express

BIOGRAPHIES

(ATL), and The Contemporary Theatre of Ohio here in Columbus. Isaac is a Central Ohio native and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from Miami University and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Connecticut. In addition to his theatrical work, Isaac is a theatrical and headshot photographer, muralist, husband, and father of two. Much love to Jordan, Rowan, and Freya. Portfolio: www.isaacramsey.net

Anna Grywalski (Costume Designer/Costume Shop Supervisor) is a costume designer, creator, and teacher. Anna would like to thank the student costume shop employees for putting up with her this semester, and for the inordinate amount of quick rigging done for this show. Much love to Perry and the cats.

Kitty Mader (Sound Designer) is a sound designer and engineer from Avon, Ohio. She received her BFA in Design and Technology for theatre from Otterbein in 2022, and is currently the department’s Lighting and Sound Supervisor. Kitty has worked in renowned theatres such as TexARTS in Lakeway, Texas (Sound Designer), Otterbein Summer Theatre (Sound Designer/Lighting and Sound Supervisor), Weston Theater in Weston, Vermont (Assistant Audio Supervisor), The Great Lakes Theater in Cleveland, Ohio (A2), and the Bard Summerscape Music and Opera Festival in upstate New York (Audio Assistant). She has sound designed many Otterbein productions, including Dance 2023: Escape to Wonderland, Everybody (2023), Cabaret (2023), Bright Star (2023), Dance 2022: Find Me in the Shadows, and Black Comedy (2022). Other productions Kitty has worked on include 9 to 5 (TexARTS, 2023), Marry Me a Little, Hair (Weston, 2022), The 39 Steps (Great Lakes, 2022), and Le Roi Arthus (Bard, 2021). Kitty is delighted to be sound designing 9 to 5 once again, and she hopes you have a darn tootin’ time!

Josie Rocca (Stage Manager) is a senior BFA Design/Technology major from Lewis Center, OH with a focus in lighting and stage management. Selected previous Otterbein credits include Dance 2023: Escape to Wonderland (Lead Electrician), Cabaret (Assistant Lead Electrician/A1), Dance 2022: Find me in the Shadows (Lead Electrician), A Little Night Music (Stage Manager), and A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder (Assistant Stage Manager). Josie has also spent some time working in downtown Columbus at The Davidson Theater, The Lincoln Theater, BalletMet, Opera Project Columbus, The Wexner Center for the Arts, and over-hire with the local chapter of the IATSE union. She has also worked outside of Columbus at The Opera Theater of Saint Louis and The Santa Fe Opera during their summer seasons as an electrics apprentice. 9 to 5 is Josie’s final production with Otterbein and she is going to spend some time working downtown in Columbus post-graduation before trying to pick up a tour contract. She would like to thank her family and her friends for all of their continued support through every production she’s been a part of.

Doc Davis (Automation Coordinator) was born and raised in Mississippi and began working in production early, assisting the band and theatre programs through junior high and high school. While earning a BA in Theatre from Belhaven University in Jackson, MS, he worked as a local Sound Engineer and Systems Technician for acts such as Robert Randolph, Breaking Benjamin, and The Temptations. After graduation he continued his education at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. While completing his MFA in Sound Design and Technology, he worked as a sound engineer at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, assisting such acts as Mark Morris Dance Company, The National, Derek Trucks Band, Keb’ Mo’, Ralph Lemon Dance Company, and more. After receiving his MFA, he returned to Jackson, MS where he acted as the Director of Dance Production for Belhaven University’s prestigious Dance BA program. Davis also explored various

BIOGRAPHIES

aspects of video production, and produced or assisted in producing several short films and music videos selected for exhibition at film festivals throughout the South. Since moving to Columbus, OH, Davis has worked at Otterbein University as Sound Designer, Sound Design and Technology professor, Lighting and Sound Supervisor, and Events Coordinator for Cowan Hall. In 2021, Davis presented a paper to the US Institute of Theatre Technology regarding a method of safely producing theatrical productions during a global pandemic which was utilized in 2020’s production of The Theory of Relativity. Doc is the CEO of Sound Audio Productions in Columbus OH, sits on the board of the Mississippi Shakespeare Festival, and is a founding member of Hapax Creative Solutions and Gearbox Camera and Lighting. Davis has two beautiful twin daughters (Emma and Grace) and a cat (Tyler.)

Melinda Murphy (Voice and Movement Coach) teaches Alexander Technique and Feldenkrais Method® in the Otterbein Theatre and Dance Department, with application to movement, voice, characterization, singing, and dance. Melinda is one of the few teachers trained in both methods; she combines them in her private practice in Columbus, and in classes and seminars for performing artists at other Ohio colleges. Since coming to Otterbein, she also trained to teach Fitzmaurice Voice work for its specialized tools for improving the voice and breath. Melinda has coached Otterbein productions since the turn of the century. She has also coached equestrians, figure skaters, musicians, and competitive barbershop quartets and choruses, including the two-time international gold medalist Southern Gateway Chorus.

Hannah Hahn (Production Manager) is thrilled to return to her alma mater! Originally from central Ohio, she earned her B.F.A. in Theatre Design/Technology in 2018. Following graduation, Hannah interned with the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, FL before returning home to continue her work in the Columbus art scene. Hannah has worked professionally as a stage manager and event coordinator for several regional theatres including Mason Street Warehouse, Columbus Children’s Theatre, CATCO, Opera Project Columbus, Opera Columbus, and Weathervane Playhouse. She also worked as Assistant Production Manager in 2019 for the inaugural CAPA Marquee Awards Program, which provides educational opportunities to the greater Columbus area high school theatre programs. In the years since, she has served as an adjudicator, teaching artist, and stage manager for Marquee Awards Showcase. Hannah currently lives in Columbus with her husband, Nick, and their two cats, Spooky & Pippin.

Patrick Stone (Technical Director) began his tenure as the Technical Director at Otterbein in the fall of 2014. He holds an MFA from the University of South Dakota and a Bachelors of Arts from Doane College in Crete, Nebraska. He is an ETCP certified Theatrical Rigger. He teaches classes in stagecraft, properties, metal working, technical direction, wood working, and motion scenery. Patrick also enjoys consulting with theatres ranging from professional through junior high school. Patrick has abandoned this season’s joke and instead wishes to thank everyone who bothered to read this far into his bio. Fear not, more silliness will return shortly.

Jeanine Thompson (Theatrical Intimacy Director) is honored to be returning to Otterbein as the Theatrical Intimacy Director for 9 to 5, and to be working with the wonderful production team, cast, and her former student, Dr. Aviva Neff. Her previous production work at Otterbein includes: A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Cabaret, I Do, I Do, Baby, Our Town and A Little Night Music. Jeanine is an Emeritus Professor of OSU’s Department of Theatre, Film and Media Arts, who specializes in performance, directing, movement,

BIOGRAPHIES

theatrical intimacy, and creation of new works. Her artistry has been greatly influenced by her work with Anne Bogart and the SITI Company, Dance Theatre choreographer, John Giffin, and French mime artist, Marcel Marceau. Jeanine’s next production will be acting in Available Light Theatre’s upcoming production of the dark comedy You Will Get Sick

Karen Tylak (Properties Lead) is happy to be working with the creative cast and crew on 9 to 5. Karen enjoys doing props, but has also done run crew, booth crew, and stage management for many groups around town. She has worked with Gallery Players, CATCO, Little Theatre off Broadway, and Actors Theatre.

Nick Abouzeid (Joe) is a sophomore BFA Musial Theatre major from Warwick, RI. Nick is thrilled to be returning to the main stage at Otterbein University. His most recent Otterbein credits are This Is Our Youth (Warren) and Bright Star (Billy Cane). Roles recently played have been Jack Kelly (Newsies) Percy Jackson (Lightning Thief) and Father (Children of Eden). Nick is so excited for this production and would like to thank all those involved in making this show so amazing along with all the theatre and dance faculty who continue to push him to learn and grow! A huge thank you to his family, friends, and wonderful girlfriend Elise who always come out to show him support and love. Enjoy the show and TGIF!

Tres Allison (Franklin Hart, Jr.) is a sophomore BFA Musical Theatre major from San Antonio, TX. Tres is so excited to be returning to the mainstage at Otterbein! Tres’ recent credits include: Hans/Max (Cabaret) & Stanford/Ensemble (Bright Star), and playing John Carter in Ranked at SXSW. Tres wishes to thank God, his wonderful family and friends, and the cast & crew of 9 to 5. He hopes he can make you laugh today and that you have fun! “Yours sincerely, - no firmly, Franklin Hart Jr.”

Halle Audette (Ensemble/Dance Captain) is a BFA Musical Theatre major with Dance and Exercise Science and Health Promotion minors from Minneapolis, MN. Her past Otterbein credits include Dance 2023: Escape to Wonderland (Queen of Hearts), Cabaret (Lulu), Bright Star (Spirit), and Dance 2022: Find Me in The Shadows (The Mistress). She would love to thank the incredible team that made this show happen - Aviva, Lori Kay, and Cindy, the brilliant cast and crew, and her friends and family for the unwavering support. Love, Fox.

Evan Blust (Dick/Ensemble/Dance Captain/U/S Hart) is a sophomore BFA Musical Theatre major with a minor in Dance from Trenton, OH. His previous Otterbein credits include A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Pinecone/Eunuch/Swing), Cabaret (Ernst Ludwig), Bright Star (Daddy Murphy), and Dance 2022: Find Me in the Shadows (Detective). This June, he will be appearing in the Ensemble and understudying Brad and Rocky in The Rocky Horror Show with The Carnegie. Evan would like to thank Aviva, Cindy, Lori Kay, and the entire cast and crew for such a wonderful experience!

Caroline Bowers (Doralee Rhodes) is a junior BFA Musical Theater major from Washington, DC. She is thrilled to share this story with you! Some of her credits include, Fraulein Kost (Cabaret), Lucy Grant (Bright Star), and Ensemble/Adelaide U.S. (Guys and Dolls). She would like to thank Aviva for pushing her to grow; Lori Kay, Cindy, the production team, her Mom, Dad, and sister for being her biggest supporters; Anna Elliott for not giving up on her; Roberto for believing in her; and “The Trio” for being such a light throughout this process.

@carolinebowers__

BIOGRAPHIES

Allison Bricker (Production Assistant) is a freshman Educational Studies major and Theatre minor from Blacklick, OH. She is happy to be helping out with such an amazing show, and while she will be switching her major to education, she plans to continue helping out within the theatre department throughout the rest of her time here. Allison would like to dedicate this show to her dogs Bella and Winston, who were absolutely no help at all. Enjoy the show!

Kinsey Calderone (Ensemble) is a BFA Musical Theatre major and Public Relations minor from Lexington, NC. She is delighted to be a part of 9 to 5 ! A high school graduate from UNCSA, recent roles include Alice (Dance 2023: Escape to Wonderland), Texas (Cabaret), and Rebecca Gibbs (Our Town) for Otterbein University, and Ensemble (Baby) for Otterbein Summer Theatre. She wishes to thank the cast & crew, especially Aviva, Cindy, & Lori Kay, and her family for their love and support!

Libby Carroll, she/her (Tech Assistant Stage Manager) is a junior BFA Design/Technology major from Pittsburgh, PA! Her most recent Otterbein credits include A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Stage Manager), Cabaret (Stage Manager), and Black Comedy (Stage Manager). Her outside credits include OST’s Baby (Stage Manager), CCT’s The Happy Elf (Rehearsal Stage Manager), and Opera Project Columbus’ Don Pasquale (ASM). She would like thank all of her sisters at Theta Nu Sorority for their love and support this year. She hopes you enjoy the show!

Adrian Casto (Assistant Sound Designer/A1) is a sophomore BFA Design/Technology and BA Art History and Visual Culture double major from West Liberty, OH. His previous show credits include Dance 2023: Escape to Wonderland (Technical Director), Cabaret (ASM), and Black Comedy (ASM) here at Otterbein University. Adrian spent the past summer here as a technical apprentice for Otterbein Summer Theatre and this coming summer he plans to stick around Columbus as a stagehand for PromoWest Productions working in the music industry. He would like to thank his family and friends for their unending support as well as his partner for always being there for him. Live long and prosper, as well as enjoy the show!

Dominic Catrone (Bob Enright/Ensemble) is a freshman BFA Musical Theatre major and Dance minor form New Albany, OH. He is thrilled to be performing in his first main stage musical at Otterbein! Dominic has grown up in the theater and dance world, performing since age six. Some of his favorite credits include the Ensemble of Dance 2023: Escape to Wonderland here at Otterbein, Rolf (The Sound of Music,), and Enjolras (L’es Miserables). Dominic has performed around Columbus with the Short North Stage, Butterfly Guild, and New Vision Dance Company.

Connor Christopher (Props Assistant) is a sophomore BFA Design/Technology major from Tampa, FL. Connor is ending this year with a new experience; a large and challenging show to prop had Connor pushing himself in a new way! You may have seen his name in the programs of Everybody and A Midsummer Night’s Dream as Assistant Lead Electrician. You will see his name next to the title Lead Electrician this summer when you come see the shows put on by Otterbein Summer Theatre (OST). He is also appreciative that his family was able to come see this show.

Melody Cohen (Roz Keith) is a sophomore BFA Musical Theatre major from San Francisco, CA. She’s so excited to make her Otterbein Mainstage debut with this amazing show and

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even more incredible cast and crew! She especially wants to thank her friends, family, Aviva, Lori Kay, and Cindy for believing in and pushing her to be her best and goofy self! From her “Heart to [Yours],” she hopes you enjoy the show!

Jane Cook (Assistant to the Choreographer/Ensemble Swing/Vocal Ensemble/Dead Body) is a sophomore BFA Creative Writing and Film Studies double major with a Dance minor from Canton, OH. She made her Otterbein debut in Cabaret (Kit Kat Girl Swing), and also performed in Dance 2023: Escape to Wonderland (Ensemble). Jane danced previously with Canton Ballet Company – an experience she will cherish forever. She would like to thank Cindy for the wonderful opportunity to assist her; the cast, the chord, and the gurney for their endless joy; and her teachers, close friends, roommates, and parents for their unwavering support.

Dennis Davenport (Keys II) is Professor of Music at Otterbein. He teaches in the BFA Musical Theatre program and in general education for the First Year Experience, Honors, and Senior Year Experience programs. Recent music direction for Otterbein includes Cabaret in Fall 2023; I Do! I Do! and Baby in Summer 2023; and Pirates of Penzance in Summer 2022.

Marshall Duggan (Assistant Stage Manager) is a sophomore BFA Design/Technology major from Thibodaux, LA. He would like to thank the entire company of 9 to 5 for putting up such a great show and having so much fun during the process. He would also like to thank his partner and parents for their continued support. Boudreau asked Thibodeau to check and see if his taillights were working. Thibodeau: yes, no, yes, no, yes, no.

Elizabeth Foster (Missy Hart/Ensemble) is a junior BFA Musical Theatre major and Dance minor from Grand Rapids, MI. Elizabeth is so excited to be back on the Cowan Stage! Previous Otterbein performance credits include Otterbein Summer Theatre’s Baby (Ensemble), Bright Star (Ensemble), Dance 2022: Find Me In the Shadows (Swing), A Tale of Two Spectators (Woman), and Something Rotten (Ensemble). Elizabeth is also the president of Otterbein’s MainStage Improv troupe and an amateur enjoyer of Hungarian Goulash! Elizabeth would like to thank her family for their constant support, David Graves for being the most wonderful boyfriend, Kateri Condon for always partaking in mischief, and the production team for this opportunity!

LaBron Foy (Dwayne/Ensemble) is a sophomore BFA Musical Theatre major with a minor in Exercise Science & Public Health Promotion from Loganville, GA. LaBron is thrilled to be in his third Otterbein Production. He is widely grateful for the art of theatre, always hoping to make someone smile. He gives thanks to God, his family, and his incredible teachers over the years for their encouragement and aid. He would like to give a special thanks/kudos to Kailey, he is beyond proud of her for all her accomplishments, and the remarkable person she is.

Luca Fragiotta (Lead Electrician) is a senior BFA Design/Technology major with a minor in Film Studies from Lewis Center, OH. Luca’s time on campus was spent primarily in the Scene Shop, but also as Stage Manager, Electrician, and Dance Concert Lighting Designer. Luca is immensely grateful for the guidance and support of Otterbein’s faculty and staff these amazing four years. He also thanks his family, roommates, Addy, and his supportive friends. Luca will return this summer as OST’s Technical Director. Enjoy the show, and this break from your own 9 to 5.

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Nathan Frewen (Trombone) is a sophomore BFA Musical Theatre major from Downers Grove, IL. While you are seeing him in the orchestra for this show, you may recognize him from Otterbein’s recent production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, where he played Nick Bottom, or from last spring’s musical, Bright Star, where he played Mayor Dobbs. Other on-stage credits include: Elf the Musical, Million Dollar Quartet (Weathervane Playhouse); Annie, Million Dollar Quartet (Totem Pole Playhouse). Nathan began playing the trombone 10 years ago and is so grateful to have the chance to integrate his musical practice into his training at Otterbein. Thanks so much to all of my music teachers throughout the years, my family for listening me learn to play the loudest instrument ever made, and Lori Kay for giving me this opportunity! Womp Womp!!

Simone Gelety (Male Ensemble, Intimacy Captain) is a BFA Acting major and Dance minor from Tucson, AZ. Simone is honored to have worked on this show with such a talented cast and crew. They would like to shout out Jeanine Thompson and Aviva for all of their guidance and education in intimacy coordination. And a huge thank you to their fellow cast members for all of their trust. You guys ROCK! It has been a blast being, as Lori Kay would say, “Simone and the boys.”

Alex Goetz (Reeds) graduated from Otterbein University in 2018 with a degree in Bassoon Performance. While Alex arranges and performs a variety of genres, musicals are her favorite, and she’s thrilled to be back at Otterbein playing in this production! Past credits include Guys and Dolls, Singin’ in the Rain, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Damn Yankees, The Addams Family, and more.

Jaxon Gholston (Josh/Ensemble) is a BFA Musical Theatre major from Manhattan, NY. Jaxon is thrilled to be making his Otterbein Mainstage debut in 9 to 5. He is super excited to share this hilarious show that he and his peers have worked so hard on over the past few months. Jaxon would like to thank his friends and family for supporting him throughout this process. Jaxon would like to dedicate this performance in the memory of his grandpa Warren.

Brianna Gutierrez-Diaz (Ensemble/Maria) is a freshman BFA Musical Theatre major and Dance minor from Pensacola, FL. This is her first show at Otterbein University. Her parents introduced her to Dolly and her music at a young age; she is incredibly thankful to be a part of this amazing cast! She would like to thank her friends, teachers, and family for all their love and support. She is ecstatic and grateful to be able to bring this wonderful production to life. Enjoy the show!

Dr. Jesse Heetland (Trumpet II) is a sought-after freelance trumpeter in central Ohio in both classical and commercial styles. He has performed as a soloist in the German cities of Frankfurt, Nürnberg, and Bad Kreuznach, and he appears on Old Hundred’s album Time in the Wild (2012) and Lucas’ album Foolish Children (2014). As a vocalist, he sings professionally with the Lancaster Chorale, the Sacred Music Institute of America, and Ensemble Una Voce. He teaches undergraduate music theory, sight-singing, music technology, world music and music literature at Otterbein University and maintains an active private brass studio. As a composer, he has had a dozen motets and antiphons premiered this year at the Basilica of St. Mary of the Assumption as well as a work for junior high band. Additionally, he has written for the Appalachian State University trumpet ensemble, with an expected premier this spring. Dr. Heetland holds a DMA in trumpet performance and pedagogy from the University of Oklahoma, an MM in music education

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from Wright State University, and a BM in music industry from Capital University. He lives in Lancaster with his trumpeter wife and three musical and creative teenage children.

Anna Hundt (Lead Carpenter) is a sophomore BFA Design/Technology major from Milwaukee, WI. Anna is thrilled to have been a part of 9 to 5 in the scene shop and is so proud of #teamgirl for their hard work with this show. Previously this year, she was an Assistant Technical Director for A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and is headed to UFOMT for the summer. Anna is immensely grateful of her family and their support. She would also like to thank Luca and Addy, and her roommate Kiley for being the absolutely best friends she could have asked for. She hopes that you enjoy the show.

Ben Huntoon (Trumpet I) is in his 24th season playing trumpet for Otterbein musical theatre productions. Recently retired after 30 years as the Jazz Education Consultant at Stanton’s Sheet Music, he also served on the music faculty at Otterbein University for 15 years. Ben received degrees in music from Capital University (B.MusEd) and The Ohio State University (M.A.). As a performer and jazz educator he has appeared on numerous stages and with many artists over the past 40 years. You can hear Ben weekly on Monday evenings at the Clintonville Woman’s Club alongside 20 other world class musicians in Vaughn Wiester’s Famous Jazz Orchestra.

Will Iannitelli (Detective/Ensemble) is a freshman BFA Musical Theatre major with a minor in Exercise Science & Public Health Promotion from Austin, TX. He is very excited for his first MainStage show at Otterbein, and he hopes you thoroughly enjoy the show!

Tomasz Jarzecki (Percussion/Drums), originally from Poland, is a Columbus based drummer/percussionist. He is a graduate of University of Cincinnati’s CollegeConservatory of Music, where he completed BM and MM in percussion performance. Tomasz is a self-proclaimed “jack-of-all-genres,” and likes to perform in various musical settings. From a symphony stage to a country band stand, he’s done it. Tomasz can be seen performing regularly for Otterbein University’s theatre productions, OSU opera productions, Columbus Children’s Theatre, as well as smaller productions throughout the city. On a national level, he was a percussionist for two national tours of the 2001 Broadway revival of the musical Oklahoma! He has played drums for many local bands, including Juke Joint Saints, Christy Angeletti Band, Ray Massa’s Eurorhythms, In Full Swing Big Band, Clavesonic Latin Jazz Project, Big Rockin’ Blues Band, and others. As of 2024, Tomasz is in his 6th year teaching as an adjunct at Otterbein’s Music department where he has taught Percussion Methods class to BME freshmen students, percussion lessons to both majors and non-majors, and has directed the Otterbein University Percussion Ensemble.

Josh Jaffe (Tinsworthy/Ensemble) is a freshman BFA Musical Theater major and Dance minor from Mundelein, IL, and is very excited to be making his Otterbein Mainstage debut. He’d like to thank his friends, family, and especially his mom, for all of their endless support. Please enjoy this one of a kind show!

Ja Na’Ya Johnson (Paints Assistant/Light Board Op) is a freshman BA Theatre and Marketing BS double major with a Film Studies minor from Columbus, OH. She was truly excited to get the chance to work on this spring musical. As a semi-newcomer to theatre, stepping into these newly discovered roles is an opportunity she will cherish. She could go on and on, but she will cut it here. She hopes everyone enjoys this incredible show and shows lots of love to the cast and crew members! - A drawn-out message from

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a certified yapper.

Elise Karlstad (Ensemble/Doralee U/S) is a sophomore Musical Theatre major with a Dance minor and a proud native of Stillwater, MN! She’s excited for you to see this production with such an amazing cast and crew! Elise has had the honor to be in Otterbein’s Main Stage productions of Dance 2022: Find Me In The Shadows, Cabaret, and Dance 2023: Escape To Wonderland. She wants to thank her family and friends who have supported her along the way.

Ian Kerber (House Manager) is a senior BA Theatre major and Psychology minor from Elyria, OH. Other shows he has worked on in the past include A Midsummer Night’s Dream (ASM), Our Town (ASM) and Bright Star (House Manager). He wants to thank his amazing mom for coming out to see the shows he works so hard on as well as his awesome roommates, Faith and David, for being amazing people. This is his last show with Otterbein, so please enjoy the show for him! Go Cards!

Daniel King (Trumpet II Substitute) has been a member of the Otterbein music faculty since 1990. He currently teaches trumpet, brass pedagogy, music education, and is the assistant director of the Cardinal Marching Band. His current playing positions include the Capital University Faculty Brass Quintet and concert master / solo cornet for the Brass Band of Columbus. Dr. King holds degrees from the University of Kentucky, and The Ohio State University.

Matt Knerr (Associate Scenic Designer) is a senior BA Theatre major with a concentration in Design/Technology from San Francisco, CA. Previous Otterbein Credits include Into a Lamplit Room (Assistant Scenic Designer), A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder (Technical Director), Land of Ours (Scenic Designer), Something Rotten! (Assistant Technical Director), A Little Night Music (Properties Lead), and A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Assistant Scenic Designer). He has enjoyed his last show at Otterbein as a student and hopes you enjoy the show!

Ana Kusenberger (Kathy/Ensemble) is a sophomore Musical Theatre major from San Antonio, TX, and is very excited to be performing in her first Otterbein musical. Fun fact: she is playing the role her older sister played in 9 to 5 in high school! Some past credits include Mrs. Webb (Our Town), Elle Woods (Legally Blonde), and Urleen (Footloose). She’d like to thank the creative team, cast, and crew, as well as her family and friends for supporting her. Enjoy the show, y’all!

Ryan Lewis (Assistant Lead Electrician) is a senior BA Theatre major and Art History & Visual Culture minor from Long Island, NY. Ryan is so glad to be working on this show as it is his very last show here at Otterbein University. His previous work includes being Lead Electrician for Everybody, Programmer for Cabaret, and Assistant Lead Electrician for Dance 2022: Find Me in The Shadows and Dance 2023: Escape to Wonderland. Ryan would like to thank Luca for being such a great partner on this production, and TJ for all his guidance and memes.

Max Lozada (Wardrobe Lead) is a sophomore BA Theatre major with a Dance minor from Chillicothe, OH. They are ecstatic to be working with such a great wardrobe crew. They’re very excited to be working on bigger shows and greatly appreciates their crew and fellow shop members. They want to thank Calvin and Ja Na’Ya especially for keeping

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them sane! Enjoy the show!

William Mayer (Percussion) is a graduate of the Capital University Conservatory with a BM in Music Performance. Based in Columbus Ohio, Will is keeping busy playing drums and percussion with various groups in central Ohio. Will is passionate about playing orchestral music, jazz, chamber music, Cuban/world music, and musical theatre of course. In addition to performing, he also teaches private lessons at Columbus Percussion. Will proudly endorses Sabian cymbals.

Ava Meyer (Ensemble) is a junior BFA Musical Theatre major from Bloomfield Township, MI. Her favorite Otterbein credits include Bright Star (Alice Murphy) and OST’s Baby (Arlene). She has had a blast working on this show, and is so grateful to the entire cast and creative team. She would like to thank her parents, for always supporting her and letting her watch the 9 to 5 movie when she was far too young. For Gus, who never missed a performance.

Katelyn Miller (Margaret/Ensemble/Roz U/S) is a sophomore BFA Musical Theatre major from Cumming, GA. She is having an awesome-sauce time in 9 to 5! She has been doing theatre since high school. Other Otterbein productions she has appeared in are Our Town as Lady in a box and Everybody as Usher carrying sign. She wants to thank everyone who made this show possible. Lastly, she wanted to leave everyone with...”and when there is a chance. Make believe you will dance, that’s how to play!”

Phoebe Mock (Violet) is a sophomore BFA Musical Theatre major and Dance minor from Overland Park, KS. Phoebe is thrilled to be back on the Cowan stage! You may have seen her as Mrs. Gibbs in Our Town or The Wife in Dance 2022: Find Me in the Shadows. Shout out to Phoebe’s incredibly talented Understudy, Brianna Gutierrez-Diaz. Phoebe wants to thank her family for their support and for driving from Kansas to come see this show!

Logan Moore (Reeds) is a graduate from the University of North Texas, and is a rising talent in the Ohio jazz scene. While in high school, Logan had the opportunity of being a featured soloist with the Columbus Jazz Orchestra after winning the Hank Marr Jazz Award. Since moving back to Columbus in 2019, Logan has kept busy performing with big bands such as Vaughn Wiester’s Famous Jazz Orchestra, the Columbus Jazz Orchestra, and the Artistic Jazz Orchestra, as well as small groups such as Invisible Lights Quartet, Hot Tonic, Largemouth Brass Band, and Waves Colectivo. Logan has also performed in a number of pit orchestras for local musical productions, including The Color Purple, Legally Blonde, Newsies, and Wild Party. Aside from performing, Logan is also an active arranger. Not only does he arrange for many different sized ensembles, since the summer of 2019, he has been recording these arrangements on saxophone and uploading weekly to YouTube. These videos have since gained the attention and admiration of musicians such as Jacob Collier, Alex Hahn, and Saxologic. Logan currently has 3 albums released, Merry Saxmas Vol. 1, 2, and 3.

Natalie Neville (Charge Artist) is a sophomore BFA Design/Technology major from Heath, OH. She would like to give a special shout-out to her Assistant, Ja Na’Ya; Olivia for being the honorary paint princess; her parents, grandparents, brothers, faculty, and the entire scene shop! #Teamgirl

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Olivia Rossi (Assistant Tech Director) is a BFA Design/Technology major with a Studio Art minor from Hilliard, OH. 9 to 5 is Olivia “Rossweiler” Rossi’s last Otterbein production. In this theatre, she has experienced highs and lows, but ultimately she has grown. Rossi would like to extend a thank you to her mom and grandma (Dee) for the endless support, to Stone for the past 4 years of teachable moments, to the DT ‘24 class for participating in her polls, to Kate and Gabe for the bachelor nights along the way, to Natalie for being the goat, and of course to team girl for getting the real work done on this (and every) show. #techyeah #teamgirl

Keliah Schertz (Ensemble/Candy Striper/Judy U/S) is a sophomore Musical Theatre major with a Dance minor from Peoria, IL. Her past Otterbein credits include Dance 2023: Escape to Wonderland (Ensemble/Dance Capt.), Bright Star (Edna), and Dance 2022: Find Me in the Shadows (Child). She is so excited to be telling this story with such a great group of people! Keliah would like to thank the production team and her friends and family for all their support! She hopes you enjoy the show!

Dave Shelton (Guitar II) graduated from New School University (NYC) with a B.F.A. in Jazz Performance with the double bass as his primary instrument in 2008. While living in NYC, Shelton performed with a wide array of artists including Charles Bradley, Sly5thAve, Jay Jennings (Snarky Puppy), Melanie Charles and rising country star Denitia. After moving to Columbus in 2018, Shelton quickly became a mainstay on the local jazz and R&B scenes, performing with Bobby Floyd, Mary McClendon, Shawn “Dr.Thunder” Wallace, Laura Camara, Eddie Bayard, Vaughn Weister’s Famous Jazz Orchestra. Shelton has also performed at the Jazz and Rib Fest, the CBUS Soul Fest, and at the Columbus Commons Summer Stage with The Deal Breakers, which is a collective of local musicians playing Go-Go, a percussion-heavy funk music that originated in Washington D.C

Kailey Souder (Judy Bernly) is a junior BFA Musical Theatre major from Atlanta, GA. Kailey’s favorite credits here at Otterbein include Everybody (Friendship), Time Stands Still (Mandy), and Something Rotten! (Ensemble). She will be joining UFOMT in Logan, Utah this summer and is beyond excited for this opportunity. Kailey would like to thank Aviva, Lori Kay, and Cindy for all their guidance, as well as the entire cast/crew, her family, and Labron for all their support. She would also like to thank Caroline and Phoebe for “Shining Like the Sun” with her these last two months. @kaileymsouder

Eric Stratton (Bass) graduated from Otterbein University in the spring of 2019 with degrees in Bass Performance and Jazz Studies. He actively performs around central Ohio, playing both upright and electric bass in many genres including jazz, rock, pop, metal and classical. Eric also works in the instrumental music department at Stanton’s Sheet Music in Columbus. Musicals are one of his favorite performance opportunities, and credits include Chicago, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Singin’ in the Rain, Big Fish, Next to Normal, Little Shop of Horrors, Rock of Ages, The View Upstairs, and many more.

Paige Vick (Assistant Lighting Designer) is a junior BFA Design/Technology major from Ellicott City, MD. She is very excited for her first assistant design credit at Otterbein. It has been a crazy whirlwind experience but she hopes you enjoy the show!

Karl Wohlwend (Guitar I) has performed across North America, Europe, and Asia, playing guitar in various styles and settings. He holds a master’s degree in classical guitar performance from the Cleveland Institute of Music where he studied with John

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Holmquist. He earned his Bachelor of Music degree at the University of South Carolina, where he studied with Christopher Berg. Wohlwend served on the faculties of The Ohio State University, Capital University, Otterbein University, and Ohio Wesleyan University. He coordinated the jazz/improvisation program for the Chamber Music Connection, and served on the faculty of the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music’s Classical Guitar Workshop for twenty years.

ABOUT THE WRITERS

Dolly Parton is considered to be the most successful female country music artist, having released 42 top-10 country albums and earned 25 number-one singles. She has won seven Grammy® awards and received 42 Grammy® nominations. She has also received seven awards from the Academy of Country Music and 10 Country Music Association awards, and is one of only five female artists to win the CMA’s highest honor, “Entertainer of the Year.” Dolly is also an acclaimed movie and television actress, and her literacy program, Dolly Parton’s “Imagination Library,” is now in 566 counties in 36 states. “The woman is one of our national treasures, so let’s cherish her for as long as we’ve got her...this is one Barbie who has always been for real,” wrote Newsweek in 2008. http://www.dollyparton.com/

Patricia Resnick has enjoyed a successful and varied career in film, television, and theatre. She wrote the original screenplay for the film 9 to 5, a comedy classic and one of the top-grossing films of all time. Under the tutelage of her mentor Robert Altman, she co-authored A Wedding (British Academy Award and Writer›s Guild nominations) and Quintet starring Paul Newman. Other films include Maxie (Glenn Close) and Straight Talk, which reunited her with Dolly Parton. She has written numerous pilots for television for networks including Showtime, CBS and FX and her seven produced made for television movies include The Battle of Mary Kay starring Shirley MacLaine and Parker Posey who both gave Golden Globe-nominated performances. She was the exec producer and head writer of a series based on the children’s book Olivia for the Nick Jr. network. Her theatre work includes her Drama Desk nominated book for the Broadway musical 9 to 5 which garnered four Tony nominations, sketches for Lily Tomlin’s first one-woman Broadway show Appearing Nightly, and a stage musical adaptation of her own PBS movie Ladies in Waiting which originated at the Woodstock (Illinois) Summer Playhouse and later moved to the Lyric Opera House in Chicago. She worked as a consulting producer on the final season of Mad Men and on the ABC Family drama Recovery Road. She is currently working on a 9 to 5 film sequel as well as being co-executive producer for a new Netflix show based on Armistead Maupin’s Tales of the City.

HONORARY CAST LIST

Otterbein University Department of Theatre & Dance honors those who have given so generously during the 2023-24 Academic Year. Members who give annually at the Director and Producer level are included in the Joanne Van Sant Society. Thank you for contributing to the education of our students!

Producer ($5,000+)

Dr. Bernard Chang

Nevalyn Fritsche Nevil

Riverside Hearing Services

Director ($1,000-$4,999)

L. Thomas & Mary Alice Dillman

Douglas & Mary Pat Knight

Al & Louise Minor

Daniel Bear

Kent D. Stuckey

Dr. Tyler A. TerMeer

Alice Thomasson

Designer ($500-$999)

Gordon & Holly Brewer

David C. & Nancy E. Smith Evans

Kay Atkinson Ball

Troy A. & Kathleen Bonte

Edmund & Diane Daily Cox

Brent & Nancy DeVore

The Fragiotta Family

Sandra Freer

Mark Havanec

Fred & Patricia Baum

Chip Bruchac

Len & Sharon Bussard

Candyce Canzoneri

Dr. Sharon & Terry Carlson

Alan & Christy Coupland

John L. & Sharon Davis

Julie Doel

Margaret English Duffy

Keith Dufrane

James Farmer

Peggy Garrison & Kenneth Truman

Mark A. Geary

William A. Carpenter & Eva W. Goode

Lynda Huey

Otto Laster

Pearson McWane

Mark Hess & Anne Filbert

Ron Lykins

Charles & Maruja Paule

Diva ($250-$499)

Vince & Gayle Herried

Donna L. Kerr

Jack W. & Peggy Moreland

Brad Ostroff

Dr. Kent Shafer

Douglas R. Smeltz

David & Beckey Stamm

Star ($100-$249)

Thomas Mertzlufft

Richard Arndt & Karen Miller

Bonnie Moses

Thomas Muchmore

Dennis B. & Marjorie Munger

David & Manuella Mylander

Dennis O. & Sue Ann Norton

James & Martha Owens

James E. Paxton

Robert Pettigrew III

Sally K. Rice

Patricia Ryan

Elizabeth A. Salt

Joseph & Hollace Schmidt

Kendal Cronkhite-Shaindlin

Albert & Louise Siegel

Alan E. & Linda Smith

Dennis & Christina Smith

Dr. John & Sally Stefano

Kathryn Stephens

Lois Szudy

Laura Cean Wilson

Marcia Staub

Jon & Joyce Stonebraker

Bruce Storts

Margaret Strosky

Kent Stryker

Madelon Timmons

Janice Townsley

John Volpi

Kenneth Wadkins

David B. & Joyce Shannon Warner

Matthew & Laurie Whitnack

Sarah Whybrew

Norma F. Worley

Craig & Carol Young

Dr. Michael G. Ziegler

Judith Zivic

HONORARY CAST LIST

Supporting Actor ($50-$99)

Kay F. Ball

Judy Biedenharn

Paula & Thomas Blue

Cark & Carol Boehm

Judyth Box

Joe H. Brown, Jr.

Mark & Elise Byers

Maria Calderone

Joseph Cantrell

Kenneth Carter

Ted Chaney

David Clark

David W. Coffman

Deborah L. Coleman

The Columbus Foundation

Esther Connors

Beth Daugherty

Mary DeVore

Lauretta Anderson

David & Susan Arnold

Edward & Sharon Bernert

Michelle Bice

Judy & Mike Christian

Marilyn Clark

Anni Efthimiou

Janis Ford

Edwin A. Geer

John & Beth Gwynn

Wendy Heckler

Kimberly & Bud Hoessly

Ramona & James Edman

Alyce Douce Elbert

Emily England

Lawrence Friedman

Lisa Gemarro

Joanne Swank Gillum

Jack George

Carmenza Gutierrez

Lucy Hadley

Mary Heubach

J. Thomas & Kathleen Jones

Ron & Suzi Jones

Margaret Kadunc

Jerrold Kannel

Kathleen Kerber

Walter & Connie Kobalka

Kent Koester

Deborah Madden

Ensemble ($10-$49)

Ron & Mary Armstrong Hooker

Barbara Hughes

Laurie & Troy Johnson

Gregory Koltun

Barbara Limbert

Evon Lineburgh

Barbara L. Martin

Terry McFarland

Karen & William Mattes

Helen Wells & Carol D. Miller

Marcie Naber

Jeffrey Porterfield

LuAnne Shelby

Tom & Sandy Masterson

Gary & Barb McKenzie

Thomas Mertzlufft

Marvin & Lee Miller

Julia O’Hara

Ann Ottobre

Rebecca Coleman Princehorn & Clay Cormany

David C. & Linda Ray

Paul Ries

Ronald G. & Linda Simpson

Anita Smith

Jane Sprague

Karen Stainbrook

Brenna Stultz & Family

Michele Wilson Toney

Elizabeth Tracy

James & Carol Waugh

Susan Silbermann

Cathy & Tod Stoessner

Arlene & Robert Stuart

Brenna Stultz

Alexandra Sydney

James Tarpoff

Thomas Tichenor

Mihcelle Toney

Mary Ellen Tyus

Michael J. & Mary Ann Vehonsky

Kay Wagner

Roger L. Wilson

Laura Young

June 6-15

July 11-20

2024 Season

Subscription Renewal

Materials are in the mail!

New Subscription Sales

Begin April 24

Individual Ticket Sales

Begin May 20

June 20-29

NEW!

All Evening Performances will begin at7:30p.m.

Matinees will begin at2p.m.

OTTERBEIN SUMMER THEATRE

Fritsche Theatre, Cowan Hall

Fritsche Theatre, Cowan Hall

Fritsche Theatre, Cowan Hall