PRESENTED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE PITTSBURGH CULTURAL TRUST
NOVEMBER 6 - 9, 2025
DIRECTOR’S NOTE
At Pittsburgh Musical Theater, our mission is to create professional, high-quality theater experiences that educate and inspire. Newsies is a true embodiment of that mission; a story of resilience, unity, and the power of young voices rising together to create change.
Working with these remarkable students has been a true privilege. They have approached every rehearsal with focus, determination, and a strong sense of community. Their growth as performers and collaborators reflects the heart of the PMT Conservatory: a place where students develop their craft while discovering confidence, leadership, and the importance of working toward a shared goal.
Directing & Choreographing Newsies is both a challenge and a joy; a blend of athleticism, storytelling, and spirit. The movement in this production is an expression of strength, precision, and unity. Each step, leap, and turn carries the heartbeat of the story: young people finding power in their collective voice. For our students, the choreography became more than physical movement. It became a lesson in trust, resilience, and collaboration. Watching them grow
DIRECTOR’S NOTE (CONT.)
in confidence, individually and as a team, has been deeply rewarding.
The story of Newsies reminds us that courage often begins with a single act. One voice willing to speak up and one person willing to stand tall. Our students have embodied that message both on and off the stage. Their energy, artistry, and hearts bring this story vividly to life and exemplify why theater continues to inspire, teach, and transform.
I am proud of what these young artists have accomplished and grateful to the dedicated team of educators, artists, and families who make this program possible. Together, we celebrate the transformative power of theater and the enduring impact it has on young lives. “Strikes ain’t fun, but they sure is exciting!” I hope that the newsies excite YOU to seize the day.
Enjoy the show!
Gemma Mitchell Director, Newsies Pittsburgh Musical Theater
A
Welcome, and thank you for joining us for this truly special celebration of artistic achievement and community spirit. Tonight, we proudly mark 21 years of the inspiring collaboration between Pittsburgh Musical Theater and CAPA, a partnership built on shared values, artistic excellence, and a deep belief in the power of young people and their dreams.
Over two decades, thousands of students have stood where tonight’s performers stand - learning, growing, building confidence, and discovering their voices both on stage and in life. Each year, this production shines a light on their hard work, their courage, and their extraordinary talents. Today’s cast, crew, orchestra, and creative teams continue that tradition with passion and pride as they bring Disney’s Newsies to life on the Byham stage.
This year also holds special meaning for all of us at Pittsburgh Musical Theater, as we celebrate 35 years of producing exciting, impactful, and professional musical theater for our region. For three and a half decades, PMT has remained dedicated to opening doors for young artists, nurturing future performers, and creating opportunities that uplift and transform lives through the magic of live performance.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S NOTE (CONT.)
To our audiences, families, donors, partners, and community supporters - thank you. Your belief in PMT and CAPA sustains our students and ensures that Pittsburgh remains a place where the arts are valued, nurtured, and celebrated. Your presence today affirms the importance of creative education and live theater in strengthening our city’s cultural heartbeat.
To our remarkable students - congratulations. You continue to inspire us with your dedication, artistry, and heart. May this production be a powerful reminder that your voices matter and your dreams can take you anywhere. Enjoy the show and thank you for being part of this incredible milestone year.
We are honored to share it with you.
With gratitude,
Colleen Doyno Executive Director & Producer
Pittsburgh Musical Theater
ELEVATE THE PMT EXPERIENCE FOR ALL
PITTSBURGH MUSICAL THEATER IS IN MOTION -
leading a $20 million comprehensive campaign to transform our 110-year-old school building in Pittsburgh’s historic West End into a state-of-the-art performing arts center.
This transformation isn’t just about bricks and mortar. It’s about:
• Expanding accessibility •
• Boosting economic impact •
• Creating new community spaces •
All at a location that already welcomes nearly 20,000 visitors annually.
THIS IS MORE THAN A RENOVATION.
It’s an investment in access, opportunity, and the future of performing arts in Pittsburgh.
YOUNG ARTIST PRODUCTION
THE FOUNDATION OF PMT’S MISSION
is built on arts education, development, mentorship, and providing performance opportunities for young artists. Students at PMT Conservatory receive a truly unique experience to use their training in fully produced productions of their own in which they take on roles as performers and technical theater crew. Whether a student wishes to pursue a career in the arts or another field, Young Artist Productions provide an opportunity for growth and building transferable life skills in our future leaders. Patrons attending Young Artist Productions will be a part of it all as they experience and enjoy the best of our region’s talented youth in professional-quality entertainment!
PRODUCTION OF
MUSIC BY
LYRICS BY
Based on the Disney Film written by BOB TZUDIKER and NONI WHITE
Originally produced on Broadway by DISNEY THEATRICAL PRODUCTIONS
Orchestrations by Danny Troob
BY
Incidental Music & Vocal Arrangements by Michael Kosarin Dance Arrangements by Mark Hummel
Director & choreographer
Gemma Mitchell
capa orchestra Director
Music Director Dr. Francesca Tortorello
Mark Snyder proDucer Colleen Doyno
associate Director
Caroline Nicolian
associate Music Director
Regina Kettering
NOVEMBER 6 - 9, 2025 | BYHAM THEATER
DISNEY’S NEWSIES is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com
ANY VIDEO AND/OR AUDIO RECORDING OF THIS PRODUCTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
ALAN MENKEN
JACK FELDMAN
BOOK
HARVEY FIERSTEIN
MUSICAL SYNOPSIS
ACT I
“Overture” Orchestra
“Santa Fe - Prologue” Jack & Crutchie
“Carrying the Banner”
“The Bottom Line”
Jack, Crutchie, Newsies, Nuns
Pulitzer, Seitz, Bunsen, Hannah
“That’s Rich” Medda
“I Never Planned on You /
Don’t Come-a-Knocking” Jack, Bowery Brigade
“The World Will Know”
“Watch What Happens”
Jack, Davey, Crutchie, Les, Newsies
Katherine
“Seize the Day” Davey, Jack, Newsies
“Santa Fe” Jack
ACT II
“King of New York”
Race, Katherine, Newsies
“Letter from the Refuge” Crutchie
“Watch What Happens - Reprise” Davey, Jack, Katherine, Les
“The Bottom Line - Reprise” Pulitzer, Seitz, Bunsen
“Brooklyn’s Here”
“Something to Believe In”
Spot Conlon, Newsies
Jack & Katherine
“Once and for All” Jack, Davey, Katherine, Race, Finch, Newsies
“Finale” Jack, Company
VIOLIN
Kaylin Atkinson
Amelia Beer
Harper Boehm
Aubrey Campbell
Glendale Davis
Audrey Fossi
Kaili Hall
Em Kohut-Kegarise
Kyleyah Marshman
Max O’Brien
Maeve O’Driscoll
Samone Sallis
Imogen Shaw
Isaac Swartzwelder
Asher Taylor
Marley Tuckfelt
Angelina Yorkgitis
CELLO
Lara Bongiorni
Zephyr Cook
Henry Shaw
Ori Sherman
BASS
Ivy Lamitina
CAPA ORCHESTRA
CAPA Orchestra Director: Mark Snyder
FLUTE
Alice Deicas
Susannah Freeman
Jordan Halmi
Taylor Jones
Ammorr Rodriguez
Finn Shaffer
Veronica Viskovicz
Haley Zastawa
CLARINET
Stephen Gallagher
Alivia Gallagher
Amayla Hairston
Makayla Johnson
Sam Jones
Janyiah Miles
Onyx Plunkett
Marleny Rosario
Gia Watkins
BASSOON
Oscar Atkinson
SAXOPHONE
Deja Chambers
Louis Mercolini
Elijah Rollins
Sebastian Wilburn
TRUMPET
Brooklynn Dragoone
Jacob Fischbach
Laila King
Eli Stanton
TROMBONE
Kayden Randall
KEYBOARD
Zach Frollini
PERCUSSION
John Darden
Reial Davidson
Aaron Devine
Owen Little
Jaden Paul
DRUM SET
Henry Simcox
FLUSHING CAST
THURS, NOV. 6 AT 10AM | THURS, NOV. 6 AT 7:30PM | SAT, NOV. 8 AT 7:30PM
Jack Kelly
Wyatt Bernardini
Davey Jayden Greening
Katherine Ariel Rieger
Les
William Graybill
Crutchie Colin Kelly
Medda Elaina Picciano
Pulitzer
Nicholas Ewanco
Hannah Sofia Glover
Seitz Aritro Moscato
Bunsen
Nunzio
Moss Brinzer
Reese McCarthy
Spot Conlon Matthew Lauver
Weisel
Race
Hershock
Liam Gedris
Albert Connor Asti
Specs Aiden Valdisera
Henry
Matthew Lauver
Finch Luca Boudreau
Romeo Iker Antela
Elmer
Ari Padnos
Mush Danielle Parsons
Tommy Boy Tessa Chandler
JoJo
Sarah Jakub
Buttons Taleah Carroll
Splasher Layla Sullivan-Fisher
Scabs
Bayleigh Brallier, Ainsley Christof, Brody Kocher
Oscar Delancy
William Lychack
Morris Delancy Burgess Lychack
Policemen
Katherine’s Escort
Lucas Nelson, Dylan Pal*, Jamir Purifoy
Asher Gladstone
Stage Manager Aritro Moscato
Darcy Ari Padnos
Bill
Jacobi
Brody Kocher
Owen Hershock
Guard Brody Kocher
Mayor
Governor Roosevelt
Snyder
Owen Hershock
Quinn Patrick Shannon*
Brett Goodnack*
Bowery Brigade
Taleah Carroll, Sydney Glover, Harlow Huber, Sadie Karashin, Isla Murphy, Hannah Ward
Nuns
Mariah Brown, Louise Burke, Sydney Glover, Emma Illar, Reese McCarthy, Cosette Rotondo, Anastaisa Scott, Hannah Ward
Woodside Newsies
Felicity Anderson, Bayleigh Brallier, Ainsley Christof, Calliope College, Mary Alice Crawford, Harlow Huber, Kate Huber, Sadie Karashin, Isla Murphy
Brooklyn Newsies
Maddie Acquaro, Hiatt Aquiline, Imara Britton, Mariah Brown, Theo Colopy, Asher Gladstone, Lily Greening, Landon Hartz, Grayson Hunter-Turley, Brody Kocher, Alana Matt, Alex Delale-O’Connor, Cosette Rotondo, Anastaisa Scott, Linda Stone, Gabriella Viehman, Emma Weber, Elana Weisfield
* professional Guest Artist
Bronx Newsies
Eliza Baker, Andrew Brown, Domenica Buffo, Jordan Hartz, Harrison Keiper, Aubree Liscotti, Meira Molinero, Gianna Mueller, Alayna Yot, Aurora Zbanic
Richmond Newsies
Louise Burke, Sophia Galloway, Sydney Glover, Sofia Glover, Trevor Graybill, William Graybill, Emma Illar, Graham LaForest, Reese McCarthy, Jayden Meehan, Lucas Nelson, Jamir Purifoy, Lucille Spang, Hannah Ward, Emerson Yakubic
Understudies
Les: Aubree Liscotti
Crutchie: Connor Asti
Pulitzer: Moss Brinzer
Bunsen, Seitz: Grayson Hunter-Turley
Weisel: Aritro Moscato
Race: Sadie Karashin
Albert, Henry: Harlow Huber
Finch: Danielle Parsons
Mush: Ainsley Christof
Oscar Delancy, Morris Delancy: Asher Gladstone
Jacobi: Lucas Nelson
QUEENS CAST
FRI, NOV. 7 AT 7:30PM | SAT, NOV. 8 AT 2PM | SUN, NOV. 9 AT 2PM
Jack Kelly
William Lychack
Davey Luca Boudreau
Katherine Lucille Spang
Les
Halford Peterson
Crutchie Colin Kelly
Medda Sophia Galloway
Pulitzer
Nicholas Ewanco
Hannah Sydney Glover
Seitz Jayden Meehan Bunsen
Nunzio
Moss Brinzer
Graham LaForest
Spot Conlon Tessa Chandler
Weisel
Hershock Race
Liam Gedris
Albert Connor Asti
Specs Aiden Valdisera
Henry
Matthew Lauver
Finch Jayden Greening
Romeo Trevor Graybill
Elmer
Ari Padnos
Mush Danielle Parsons
Tommy Boy Tessa Chandler
JoJo
Sarah Jakub
Buttons Taleah Carroll
Splasher Layla Sullivan-Fisher
Scabs
. Bayleigh Brallier, Ainsley Christof, Brody Kocher
Oscar Delancy
Wyatt Bernardini
Morris Delancy Burgess Lychack
Policemen
Katherine’s Escort
Lucas Nelson, Dylan Pal*, Jamir Purifoy
Asher Gladstone
Stage Manager Jayden Meehan
Darcy Ari Padnos
Bill
Jacobi
Brody Kocher
Owen Hershock
Guard Brody Kocher
Mayor
Governor Roosevelt
Snyder
Owen Hershock
Quinn Patrick Shannon*
Brett Goodnack*
Bowery Brigade
Taleah Carroll, Sydney Glover, Harlow Huber, Sadie Karashin, Isla Murphy, Hannah Ward
Nuns
Mariah Brown, Louise Burke, Sydney Glover, Emma Illar, Reese McCarthy, Cosette Rotondo, Anastaisa Scott, Hannah Ward
Woodside Newsies
Felicity Anderson, Bayleigh Brallier, Ainsley Christof, Calliope College, Mary Alice Crawford, Harlow Huber, Kate Huber, Sadie Karashin, Isla Murphy
Brooklyn Newsies
Maddie Acquaro, Hiatt Aquiline, Imara Britton, Mariah Brown, Theo Colopy, Asher Gladstone, Lily Greening, Landon Hartz, Grayson Hunter-Turley, Brody Kocher, Alana Matt, Alex Delale-O’Connor, Cosette Rotondo, Anastaisa Scott, Linda Stone, Gabriella Viehman, Emma Weber, Elana Weisfield
* professional Guest Artist
Bronx Newsies
Jamie Adamson, Christian Arlet, Brenna Asti, Finley Asti, Dexter Beer, Anna Levenson, Meira Molinero, Maisie Nichol, Julia Welch, Alayna Yot
Richmond Newsies
Iker Antela, Louise Burke, Sydney Glover, Sofia Glover, Emma Illar, Graham LaForest, Reese McCarthy, Aritro Moscato, Lucas Nelson, Halford Peterson, Elaina Picciano, Jamir Purifoy, Ariel Rieger, Hannah Ward, Emerson Yakubic
Understudies
Les: Aubree Liscotti
Crutchie: Connor Asti
Pulitzer: Moss Brinzer
Bunsen, Seitz: Grayson Hunter-Turley
Weisel: Aritro Moscato
Race: Sadie Karashin
Albert, Henry: Harlow Huber
Finch: Danielle Parsons
Mush: Ainsley Christof
Oscar Delancy, Morris Delancy: Asher Gladstone
Jacobi: Lucas Nelson
MaDelyn acquaro
hiatt aquiline
Finley asti
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
anDrew Brown JaMie aDaMson christian arlet eliza Baker
Felicity anDerson
luca BouDreau
Bayleigh Brallier
Mariah Brown
Brenna asti
Dexter Beer
Moss Brinzer
DoMenica BuFFo
wyatt BernarDini
iMara Britton
louise Burke
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
ORDER)
harlow huBer
sarah JakuB
BroDy kocher
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
kate huBer
gianna Mueller
ari paDnos
JaMir puriFoy
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
rieger
nelson
lucille spang gaBriella viehMan
isla Murphy
Maisie nichol
elaina picciano anastaisa scott
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Professional Guest Artists
Julia welch
Brett gooDnack
eMerson yakuBic
Dylan pal alayna yot
quinn patrick shannon
aurora zBanic
PRODUCTION CREDITS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
colleen Doyno (executive Director, proDucer) has been with PMT since 1997. Ms. Doyno directed and choreographed countless shows for both the Professional and Conservatory theater companies. Several of these shows have been counted as the “Best of Pittsburgh” in the annual Pittsburgh Post-Gazette year in review; including the Conservatory Theater Company’s 2013 production of Miss Saigon, the first student show to be so honored. In 2013 Colleen’s achievements were recognized with the prestigious “Woman of Integrity” award and her commitment to mentoring young women into future leaders was honored when she was selected as a finalist for the 2013 “Athena” award. Ms. Doyno is a strong advocate for the development of the West End Community, which serves as PMT’s forever home. She has worked with Pittsburgh City Council, PA State and Allegheny County officials and the Mayor’s office to advance growth in the area. She has a deeply held belief in developing our children into healthy, self-assured, well-rounded individuals through the arts. This belief is at the heart of her educational philosophy and has guided the success of the conservatory under her direction. Colleen considers herself fiercely local and is dedicated to concentrating on the positive, found in each individual and each day that she faces. Many thanks to the never ending dedication of the PMT staff, the constant support of the PMT Board of Directors and the love of my amazing family.
JereMy eiBen (costuMe Designer) M.F.A. 2023
Penn
State University
(Costume Design) B.F.A. 2019 Point Park University (Technical Theatre/ Costume Design) He is native to Pittsburgh, PA & has over a decade of experience as a designer, stylist, & fashion aficionado. His style embodies boldness & versatility & can cater to a wide clientele audience. His many interests include costuming, cosplay, & theatre. Jeremy is a freelance costume designer who has worked with multiple companies such as The Collective, Elsewhere Theatre, The Utah Shakespeare Festival, Pittsburgh Musical Theatre, Pittsburgh Playhouse REP/Main Stage/JR./Dance, Penn State Centre Stage, Resonance Works, Upper St. Clair High School & Stage 62. Past costume designs include Dracula (2025,USCHS), Evil Dead The Musical (2025, PMT), Carousel (2025, PMT), Waitress (2025, PMT), & Jesus
PRODUCTION CREDITS
Christ Superstar (2025, PMT). Upcoming Shows include Annie (2026, PMT), & Mamma Mia (2016, USCHS). Jeremyetaylordesign.com
regina kettering (associate Music Director) PhD: Regina is a Resident Artist at Pittsburgh Musical Theater. Past credits include Mary Poppins (Chartiers Valley SD), Shrek (West Mifflin SD), and Phantom of the Opera (Blackhawk SD). She has been Organist/Music Director at multiple Pittsburgh churches over the past 15 years. The adaptability and flexibility required for organ translate well to the dialogue between pit and stage. Classically trained by Anne Liva and Michael Popick, Regina started playing piano at 4. She performed publicly at 8, and accompanied choirs by the age of 10. In high school, she memorized the equivalent of a Master’s level recital, playing Bach, Beethoven, Chopin, and more. Moving to Pittsburgh allowed her to learn the king of instruments - organ - from Craig Dobbins, Music Director of Sewickley Presbyterian Church. She performed the last public recital at Heinz Chapel, playing music composed by women from 1500-2020 on International Women’s Day. Regina is an active member of the Pittsburgh Chapter of the American Guild of Organists. She earned a PhD from the University of Pittsburgh in protein crystallography.
aMBer kocher (props Master) hails from Pittsburgh, with her husband, Kevin and son, Brody. She is a graduate of Clarion University and is the Props Master, Set Dresser, Jack-of-all-Trades Resident Artist and theater mom at PMT. Favorite credits with PMT include Evil Dead The Musical, Disney’s Newsies, Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Shrek, and more. Amber has been with the company since 2012, and is looking forward to many more seasons with PMT.
kevin kocher (scenic Designer, pMt conservatory technical Director) has set designed several shows at PMT including Sister Act, Jekyll and Hyde, We Will Rock You, and Disney’s Newsies (2019). He has also worked in various other technical positions at PMT and PMT Conservatory such as sound designs for Evil Dead The Musical (2019), Hunchback of Notre Dame (2019), and A Lyrical Christmas Carol (2019). Over the past several years Kevin has lead the Technical Theater & Design Program at PMT Conservatory,
PRODUCTION CREDITS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
helping to educate students in technical theater design and application in full scale productions. Kevin attended Clarion University of PA and earned a B.S. in Education and studied theatrical design and direction.
alex Manalo (intiMacy coorDinator) (she/her) is a Fil-Am theater maker based in Pittsburgh and is elated to be one of the performers this year, as she choreographed in ‘22. Some recent credits: Evil Dead The Musical (Pittsburgh Musical Theater), The Importance of Being Earnest (Pittsburgh Public Theater & Baltimore Center Stage) Guys and Dolls, A Musical Christmas Carol, Charlie Brown, South Pacific, and Gallery of Heroes (PCLO) Miss Bennet: Christmas At Pemberley, Young Playwright’s Festival, catch her next in Little Women this November (City Theatre). When not performing, she can be found acting as a patient for University of Pittsburgh medical students, giving a tour of her hometown on a Molly’s Trolley, choreographing dances for local high schools, or being the owner of Manalo Movement LLC and curating workshops for healthier practices and intimacy work. Represented by the Docherty Agency. PPU Grad. Proud AEA and Filipino American Association of Pittsburgh member. Much love to this cast and crew, RPK and Appa. Mabuhay! @alexmanalo_
geMMa Mitchell (Director, choreographer) is thrilled to switch roles and bring Disney’s Newsies to the stage with Pittsburgh Musical Theater, PMT Conservatory, and the Pittsburgh CAPA Orchestra! A proud member of the PMT Family for seventeen years, she currently serves as Director of Production Operations and is a member of Actors’ Equity Association for both PMT’s Professional Company and Conservatory Productions. Favorite PMT credits include… all of them! To name a few: Jesus Christ Superstar (’25), Million Dollar Quartet, Grease, Once, Jersey Boys, Les Misérables, Annie, Beauty and the Beast, and the groovy Evil Dead. Beyond PMT, Gemma has lent her artistry to South Park Theatre, Robert Morris Colonial Theatre, Freedom Area High School, and Plum Borough High School. Endless thanks and forever gratitude to Colleen; to PMT’s Executive Team; the incredible members of IATSE Local 3; and the inspiring cast and creative team of Newsies. Special thanks to Francesca, Caroline, Brett, Quinn, and Dylan for signing onto this wild ride. @missgemmamitch
PRODUCTION CREDITS (IN
caroline nicolian (associate Director, Dialect coach) is thrilled to be a part of this incredible team of creatives and young artists! She is the Conservatory Administrator, Sponsorship Manager, and a Resident Teaching Artist at PMT, and was the Assistant Director and Dialect Coach for the SMT Teen productions Pippin, Sweeney Todd, and Carousel. She is a member of Actors’ Equity and has been seen performing in and around Pittsburgh for 20 years. Some of her favorite credits include PCLO’s First Date (Casey), PCLO’s The Toxic Avenger (Mayor/Ma Ferd), PCLO’s Side by Side by Sondheim (principle), PPT’s Murder on the Orient Express (Countess Andrenyi), PMT’s The Sound of Music (Mother Abbess), Carrnivale Theatrics The Bridges of Madison County (Francesca), PICT’s Jaques Brel is Alive and Well…(principle), SVST’s A Grand Night For Singing (Lynn), and The Strand’s Children of Eden (Eve/Mama Noah). She wrote and performed her cabaret, A Leading Lady Songbook, for the PCLO’s Cabaret Spotlight Series in 2021. You can catch her next performance around the holidays with Kinetic Theater’s A Sherlock Carol. She received her B.F.A. in Musical Theater from Point Park University, where she met and first performed with her favorite scene partner and incredible husband, Quinn Shannon. Of all the hats she wears, she finds the most joy in working in the Conservatory to foster a safe and nurturing environment where our students can express themselves creatively, learn transferable life skills, and share their joy of musical theater with one another. Many thanks to Colleen and Gemma for this fantastic opportunity, and to all PMT parents for their time and never-ending support. Congratulations to the cast, crew, and CAPA orchestra on this marvelous production of Newsies!
alex noBle (Fight Director) Additional PMT credits include: Jake and Fight Director in Evil Dead The Musical, Silly Girl in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Cecco in Peter Pan, Grantaire in Les Miserables, Khashoggi in We Will Rock You, Chef Louis in Disney’s The Little Mermaid and Annas in Jesus Christ Superstar. An AEA member since 2012, he has appeared onstage with PCLO, Pittsburgh Public Theater, Quantum Theatre, PICT Classic Theatre, West Virginia Public Theater, and Pittsburgh Playwrights.
PRODUCTION CREDITS (IN ALPHABETICAL
toDD nonn (lighting Designer) hails has spent many seasons working on productions with PMT. He is the Technical Director for all of Squonk Opera’s shows touring around the world, the Assistant Lighting Designer for all of Pittsburgh Opera’s performances at the Benedum, a stagehand with IASTE Local#3, and a Lighting Designer at RMU.
Dylan pal (assistant choreographer) gratefully forays into the production world of PMT! After a professional equestrian career in Lexington, Dylan returned to Pittsburgh and the performing arts. Since 2021, he appeared in several local productions including Spring Awakening (Hanschen), RENT (Mark Cohen), Joseph…Dreamcoat (Joseph), Legally Blonde (Warner Huntington III), A Chorus Line (Paul San Marco), the regional premiere of Something Rotten (Minstrel/Shylock), Irving Berlin’s White Christmas (Bob Wallace), the regional premiere of Alice By Heart (King of Hearts), Disney’s The Little Mermaid (Prince Eric), and Cats (Admetus/Macavity). Professional credits include: Front Porch Theatricals’ Pittsburgh professional premiere of BANDSTAND (Wayne Wright), PrimeStage’s Great Expectations (Bentley Drummle), his PMT debut in 2025’s Jesus Christ Superstar (Apostle/High Priest/Herod’s Band), and most recently Evil Dead The Musical (Knowby). Dylan is so thankful to be brought aboard for a production of the show that inspired him to pursue musical theater. After playing Jack Kelly himself in 2022, Dylan went on to assistant direct, choreograph, and otherwise carry the banner for numerous other productions of Disney’s NEWSIES. When not on the stage himself, Dylan can be found teaching dance classes at various companies, assistant directing/choreographing student theatrical productions, playing his trombone, roasting coffee, and riding horses. Newsies - hit the streets! @d_pal14
christopher patrick (Makeup & special Fx Designer) has been designing shows for PMT since 2007, and it is such a joy to continue working with them. Christopher works in film television and theater in the Pittsburgh region and is a member of IATSE local 798.
PRODUCTION CREDITS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Jonathan t. sage (technical Director) has been with PMT for more than fifteen years and is excited to be part of another production. A Michigan State University alumnus, additional credits include The Boarshead Professional Theater in Lansing, Michigan and The Ohio Light Opera in Wooster, Ohio. Jonathan would like to thank his family for all of their love and support.
quinn patrick shannon (pMt conservatory Director) has been a regional performer and director in New York, Pittsburgh and Central PA. He first appeared with PMT at the age of 6 as Tiny Tim in the original 1991 production of A Lyrical Christmas Carol, played the role of King Herod in PMT’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar, and Nick Massi in PMT’s production of Jersey Boys. He is perhaps best known at PMT for his appearance as Quasimodo in Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame (2017). Favorite PMT appearances include Young Frankenstein (Igor), Grease (Roger), and Sister Act (Joey). Other favorites: Guys and Dolls (Nicely Nicely Johnson) for the Pittsburgh Public Theater, Forever Plaid (Frankie), The Toxic Avenger (White Dude), and Titanic (Pittman/Etches) for the Pittsburgh CLO, and The Current War for Quantum Theatre (Francis Upton). He would like to thank his amazing wife Caroline for her never ending love and support.
Dr. Francesca tortorello, D.M.a. (Music Director) is a music director, conductor, collaborative pianist, arranger and teacher and is currently celebrating her seventh season as Resident Music Director at Pittsburgh Musical Theater. Born in Mount Kisco, New York, Francesca began her musical studies at the age of 4. She received her undergrad and graduate degrees in piano at the Cleveland Institute of Music and then completed her Doctorate of Musical Arts in Collaborative Piano and Coaching at The University of Minnesota. Principal teachers include Antonio Pompa-Baldi, Virginia Weckstrom and Timothy Lovelace. Francesca music directs the professional and teen Conservatory shows at PMT, and recent productions include Evil Dead The Musical, Carousel, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Waitress, and Jesus Christ Superstar. She also teaches advanced classes at the PMT Conservatory and regularly creates arrangements and
PRODUCTION
mashups for her students. Francesca is an accomplished classical pianist and regularly collaborates with members of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and other professional musicians in the city. When not behind the keys, she enjoys crocheting elaborate garments and spending time with her husband and two sons.
anDonetta chiarina trageser (anDi) (stage Manager) is so excited to work with such an amazing cast and crew on Pittsburgh Musical Theater’s production of Newsies! Andi spent 5 years as a student of the PMT Conservatory and has now returned to the PMT Family as a Resident Artist. Previous credits include: Beauty & the Beast (Stage Manager), Guys & Dolls Jr. (Stage Manager), Newsies Jr. (Stage Manager), The Spongebob Musical: Youth Edition. (Stage Manager), Jesus Christ Superstar (Production Assistant), Waitress (Production Assistant), and Evil Dead The Musical (Production Assistant). Thank you to PMT’s Executive Team for allowing her to live her dreams every day and a special thank you to Nick, Gemma, and Chessie. Andi also would like to dedicate all her work and dedication for this production to her father, Jack Phinney who passed in 2018 and her oldest sister, Cailyn Phinney who passed in 2022.
AUTHOR CREDITS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Jack FelDMan (lyrics) He has written music and lyrics for theater, film, television and pop records. His vast number of works include: Broadway and Off-Broadway: The Madwoman of Central Park West; Isn’t It Romantic, by Wendy Wasserstein; Beyond Therapy, by Christopher Durang; Coming Attractions, by Ted Tally; Miami (book by Ms. Wasserstein). Regional: Music for Mr. Durang and Albert Innaurato’s Idiots Karamazov at the Yale Repertory Theatre. Film: Oliver & Company; Tribute; Thumbelina; Newsies; Home Alone 2: Lost in New York; Used People; Life with Mikey; A Goofy Movie; The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride; and102 Dalmatians. TV: Music and lyrics for the PBS Theatre in America production of Eve Merriam’s Out of Our Father’s House; The Magic Hat; The Little Mermaid (TV special); Polly; “Sesame Street;” “Wubbulous World of Dr. Seuss;” and “Out of the Box.” Also many pop songs, including the Grammy Award-winning “Copacabana,” the top-10 hit “I Made It Through the Rain,” and songs and special material for Sarah Vaughn, Carmen McRae, Liza Minnelli, Lily Tomlin, Dionne Warwick, and the Muppets.
harvey Fierstein (Book) is the Tony Award winning author of Torch Song Trilogy and La Cage Aux Folles. His other theater writing includes Kinky Boots (Tony nominated), Newsies (Tony nominated), Casa Valentina (Tony nominated), A Catered Affair (12 Drama Desk nominations), Safe Sex, Spookhouse, and Legs Diamond among others. His rewrite of the classic musical Funny Girl was produced in London’s West End, on Broadway and is currently on tour in North America. He wrote the teleplays of Hairspray Live and The Wiz Live, both for NBC. For HBO he’s written On Tidy Endings (Ace Award), The Sissy Duckling (Humanitas Award) and Common Ground. He’s written political editorials for The NY Times, Huffington Post, TV Guide and PBS as well as authoring the beloved children’s book The Sissy Duckling. Beginning his acting career in Andy Warhol’s Pork at LaMama ETC, Mr. Fierstein is also well known for his theater performances in Torch Song Trilogy (Tony Award), Hairspray (Tony Award), Fiddler on the Roof, La Cage Aux Folles, Gently Down the Stream, A Catered Affair as well as film performances including Mrs. Doubtfire, Independence Day, Mulan, Bullets Over Broadway and Bella Bella! TV audiences know him from shows like The Good Wife, Nurse Jackie, Cheers (Emmy nomination), HAIRSPRAY LIVE! and recognize his voice
AUTHOR CREDITS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
from appearances on BoJack Horseman, Family Guy, The Simpsons, How I Met Your Mother, Sesame Street and from his narration of the Academy Awardwinning documentary, The Times of Harvey Milk. His memoir, I Was Better Last Night, is published by Knopf.
alan Menken (coMposer) Theater: God Bless You Mr Rosewater, Little Shop Of Horrors, Real Life Funnies, Atina: Evil Queen Of The Galaxy, Kicks, The Apprenticeship Of Duddy Kravitz, Beauty And The Beast, A Christmas Carol, Weird Romance, King David, Der Glöckner Von Notre Dame, The Little Mermaid, Sister Act, Leap Of Faith, Aladdin and Newsies. Film: Little Shop Of Horrors, The Little Mermaid, Beauty And The Beast, Newsies, Aladdin, Pocahontas, The Hunchback Of Notre Dame, Hercules, Life With Mikey, Lincoln, Home On The Range, Noel, Enchanted, Shaggy Dog, Tangled and Mirror Mirror. Songs: Rocky V, Home Alone 2 and Captain America. Awards: 8 Oscars (19 nominations), 11 Grammys (including Song of the Year), 7 Golden Globes, Tony® (plus 4 nominations), Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle, New York Drama Critics, Olivier and London’s Evening Standard Award, Drama League. Honors: Songwriter’s Hall of Fame, Doctorates from New York University and University of North Carolina School of the Arts.
Music theatre international (Mti) is one of the world’s leading theatrical licensing agencies, granting theatres from around the world the rights to perform the greatest selection of musicals from Broadway and beyond. Founded in 1952 by composer Frank Loesser and orchestrator Don Walker, MTI is a driving force in advancing musical theatre as a vibrant and engaging art form. MTI works directly with the composers, lyricists and book writers of these musicals to provide official scripts, musical materials and dynamic theatrical resources to over 100,000 professional, community and school theatres in the US and in over 150 countries worldwide. MTI is particularly dedicated to educational theatre, and has created special collections to meet the needs of various types of performers and audiences. MTI’s Broadway Junior® shows are 30- and 60-minute musicals for performance by elementary and middle school-aged performers, while MTI’s School Editions are musicals annotated for performance by high school students.
Cheers!
THE IRREPRESSIBLE COMIC STRIP
HEROINE TAKES CENTER STAGE
The sun will come out tomorrow with Annie - the Tony Awardwinning musical that has captured hearts around the world! Featuring a beloved score, this timeless favorite includes the unforgettable songs “Tomorrow,” “Easy Street,” “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” and more.
FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 1 | BYHAM THEATER
Winner of six Tony Awards, a Grammy, and an Olivier Award, Dear Evan Hansen is a powerful, modern story about connection, belonging, and being seen in today’s world. Featuring some of the most iconic musical theater songs from the last decade, including “Waving Through a Window,” “For Forever,” and “You Will Be Found.”
APRIL 30 - MAY 24 | GARGARO
On the Air
Hear interactive puzzles, interviews, and live performances from youth and adults on The Saturday Light Brigade. Saturdays from 6:00am to noon 88.3 FM and slbradio.org/radio
and
Teachers/Educators
SLB’s Youth Media Center is also open for
This one-of-a-kind experience by the talented students of PMT Conservatory and CAPA is brought to life thanks to support from the PMT Fund. Join our community of donors today - help support arts education and mentorship for Pittsburgh youth.
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LEARN MORE INTERESTED IN BECOMING A SPONSOR?
Directing your organization’s charitable giving towards the arts uplifts youth and communities and improves quality of life for employees and families in the region where you do business.
A partnership with PMT provides you the flexibility to make an impact that is directly aligned with your strategic giving priorities.
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ACCOLADES OF GIVING
Pittsburgh Musical Theater extends our gratitude to our generous individual donors, as well as foundation, corporate and government partners.
Donors acknowledged here made a gift to Pittsburgh Musical Theater between July 1, 2024 and July 16, 2025. If your name is listed incorrectly or has been mistakenly omitted, please contact Allison Hannon, Director of Development, at (412) 539-0900 x236
PRODUCER’S CIRCLE
$10,000 and Above
Allegheny Regional Asset District
Ken and Colleen Doyno
Grable Foundation
Heinz Endowments
Jendoco Construction Corporation
Laurel Foundation
PA Council on the Arts
The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust
PNC Charitable Trusts
Richard E. Rauh
DIRECTOR’S CIRCLE
$5,000 - $9,999
Anonymous
Arsenal Cider House
Baird
Brooks and Blair
City of Pittsburgh
Dollar Bank
Eat’n Park
Stephen H. Gross Charitable Fund
Kathleen Kuhn, in Memory of Dwight Kuhn
McElhattan Foundation
ACTOR’S CIRCLE
$2,500 - $4,999
Boyd & Blair
Ken and Jane Gargaro
Graze Craze - North Pittsburgh
Mike’s Beer Bar
North Shore Tavern
SLB Radio Productions
Jakub Sprankle Family
FOREVER FRIENDS CIRCLE
$1,000 - $2,499
Anonymous
Adam and Jenny Birch
Sandra Blaser
Larry and Rikki Berger
David and Judy Doyno
Randy and Cathy Emanuelson
Kaitlyn Hendrickson
HM Life Insurance Company
The Kuhn Family
Paul and Leigh Laird
Rochelle Lilien
Marcia Oglan
James Peiffer
Tyson Sears
West End Pulaski Society
BRAVO
$500 - $999
Anonymous (2)
Cheryl Begandy
The Baun Family
Marianne Downer
The Duddie Family
Fatheads Saloon
Bill and Nancy Gatti
Dodi Walker Gross, In honor of Ilyssa Bails 18th Birthday
Ken and Linda Krynski
Lawrenceville Pet Supply
PerLora
The Schmidtetter Family
Triangle Payroll Services
STANDING OVATION
$250 - $499
Anonymous
Christopher Akin
Sandra Bails, in honor of Ilyssa Bails
Stephen Black
Rich Fitzgerald
Consol Cares Foundation
Ellen Doyno
Karen Hannon
The Mueller Family
Jon Sage
Cara Shuckett
Michael Troiani
Rachel Viehman
The Yakubic Family
CHEERS
$100 - $249
Keenan Adams
Anderson Bailey
John and Dotti Bechtol
David Bokhour
Emily L. Brooks
Julia Bubanovich
Barbara Cass
Mary Cheeseman
The Christof Family
Steve Cuden
Kelly Cullen
The Darke Family
DeBruyn Tortorello Family
Gina and Andy Dodds
Greg and Julie Dodds
Steven Doerfler
Allison Hannon and William Dodds
Karen Florig
Dan Griffin
Malinda Hallett
Mary Hannon
Stuart Hastings
Bill and Mary Ann King
Kalix Jackson
The Kocher Family
Diane Lally
ACCOLADES OF GIVING
Brad and Leanne Lisien
Michelle Lyons
Madeleine Mamaux
Jennifer Mentz
Nick and Gemma Mitchell
Randy and Sue Myers
Jo Rescinitti
Howard Rieger and Beverly Siegel
Lori and Dan Rothschild
The Toole Family
John and Else Viehman, in honor of Gabby Viehman
Raymond and Kathy Wayne
Carol and Bryan Young
Stephen Yoset
PMT wishes to gratefully acknowledge supporters of our comprehensive campaign, Elevating the PMT Experience for All:
Anonymous (1)
Allegheny County Economic Development
Allegheny Regional Asset District
Edith L. Trees Charitable Trust
Heinz Endowments
Hillman Foundation
State of Pennsylvania Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program
Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh
PMT also wishes to gratefully acknowledge the more than 150 individual donors who made gifts between $25-$99. Our full donor listing can be found on our website by clicking here, or visiting: pittsburghmusicals.com/honorroll
Thank you! We are so grateful for your support, which is critical to keeping PMT positioned as a cultural asset, community resource, and arts ambassador for the Pittsburgh community. Donations cover 35% of our operating costs annually, while each season Pittsburgh Musical Theater enriches the lives of over 35,000 art-lovers and families.
Contact Allison Hannon at 412-539-0900 x236 or click the button below if you would like to join this list of generous supporters.
Producer
PRODUCTION TEAM
Colleen Doyno
Director & Choreographer Gemma Mitchell
Music Director
CAPA Orchestra Director
. . Dr. Francesca Tortorello
Mark Snyder
Technical Director Jonathan T. Sage
Stage Manager Andi Trageser
Lighting Designer
Todd Nonn
Sound Designer Eric Collins
Scenic Designer Kevin Kocher
Props Master
Amber Kocher
Associate Director Caroline Nicolian
Associate Music Director Regina Kettering
Assistant Choreographer
Dylan Pal
Costume Designer Jeremy Eiben
Makeup & Special FX Designer Christopher Patrick
Fight Director
Alex Noble
PMT Conservatory Director Quinn Patrick Shannon
PMT Conservatory Technical Director Kevin Kocher
CAPA Orchestra Associate
Angela Abadilla
Dialect Coach Caroline Nicolian
Production Assistant Charlie Sellman
Scenic Charges
Intimacy Coordinator
Kelsey Jamison, Amber Shuman
Alex Manalo
Production Photographer Jake Emmerling
(Continued on next page)
PRODUCTION TEAM (CONT.)
Band:
Students of the CAPA Orchestra
Additional artists:
Keys
Regina Kettering
Guitar Alex Kenrick
Cello Timothy Sutton
Additional Makeup Artists & Wig Team:
Avery Farrell, Michael Fitzmaurice, Charlie Sellman, Jayden Solovey
PMT Conservatory Technical Theater & Design Students:
Ruby Arnt, Dhillon Doshi, Kellen Hoy, Sarah Jakub, Brody Kocher, Kaylee Nath, Hesher Peterson, Kat Sacco, Lily Schnur, Theo Walsh, Brenden Weidaw
Special Thanks:
Darlene, Bill, & Charlotte Booher, Mineo’s Pizza, Point Park University
Pittsburgh Musical Theater (PMT) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit arts education organization committed to youth development. We cultivate a diverse creative community and future leaders with transferable life skills through a uniquely-designed convergence of training, mentorships, and professional performances. In a nurturing environment that promotes wellness, safety, and freedom of expression, our integrated opportunities for young artists and local professionals create quality productions for all audiences, foster a community of belonging, and enhance the vibrancy of our region.
BoarD oF
Directors
President
Michael Kuhn
Vice President
Kaitlyn Hendrickson
Secretary
Becky Cibulka
Treasurer
James Pieffer
Board Members
Adam Birch
Brennon Cole
Kimberly Davis
Michael Klein
Peyton Klein
Rochelle Lilien
Marcia Oglan
Tyson Sears
ex oFFicio
State Representative
Daniel J. Deasy
State Senator
Wayne D. Fontana
OPERATIONS
Executive Director Colleen Doyno
Director of Development Allison Hannon
Director of Finance Kate Toole
Box Office & Audience Services Manager,
Accessibility Coordinator .
Amber Kocher
Marketing & Media Manager Lindsay Kalbfleisch
Graphic Designer & Marketing Associate Brianna Booher
Sponsorship Manager Caroline Nicolian
Development & Marketing Intern Mackenzie Heidenreich
PRODUCTION
Director of Production Operations Gemma Mitchell
Technical Director Jonathan T. Sage
Resident Music Director Dr. Francesca Tortorello
EDUCATION
PMT Conservatory Director Quinn Patrick Shannon
PMT Conservatory Administrator Caroline Nicolian
PMT Conservatory / Associate Technical Director, Health & Safety Coordinator Kevin Kocher
Thank you for your continued support
Seeing shows in multiple performance venues - giving patrons both Broadway and Off Broadway environments to see live theater - including PMT’s own Gargaro Theater in the West End, where you’ll experience a broader range of extraordinary productions in a relaxed, unique setting - providing an Off Broadway experience unlike anything else in the city
Supporting a company mission that is committed to youth development, integrated opportunities for young artists and local professionals, and building a diverse creative community
Enjoying both professional and young artist productions - as a patron you’ll experience fantastic productions featuring professionals performers and young artists from PMT Conservatory, making you a part of the growth and evolution of the arts in our region
Million Dollar Quartet, Gargaro Theater
Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Byham Theater
A Lyrical Christmas Carol, Gargaro Theater