Grease at the Byham Theater

Pittsburgh Musical Theater presents

MARCH 7TH - 17TH, 2024 BYHAM THEATER P I T T S B U R G H

MUSICAL THEATER

A NOTE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR In a world where women continue to push against societal norms that dictate who we should be and how we should act, it is essential to revisit this timeless tale that resonates with the power of women overcoming these very challenges. Welcome to Grease, a musical that transcends generations, ignites the stage with its vibrant characters that embody resilience, friendship, and the triumph of the human spirit.

Set in the tumultuous era of the 1950s, Grease transports us to Rydell High School, where cliques reign supreme, and conformity is the rule of the day. Amidst the din of bobby socks and leather jackets, we witness the journey of Sandy and her fellow Pink Ladies as they navigate the complexities of adolescence, love, and self-discovery.

At its core, Grease is a celebration of the indomitable spirit of women.

In a society that still seeks to confine them to narrow roles and expectations, our leading ladies refuse to be confined. From the feisty Rizzo to the sweet but determined Sandy, each character embodies the

strength and resilience of the modern woman, challenging stereotypes and forging their own paths.

Through electrifying musical numbers and heartwarming moments, Grease reminds us that the power of sisterhood and solidarity can conquer even the most formidable obstacles. Whether it’s standing up to peer pressure, defying societal norms, or pursuing their dreams against all odds, the women of Grease inspire us to embrace our authentic selves and break free from the constraints that seek to hold us back.

As the curtain rises on this timeless classic, let us embark on a journey of empowerment, laughter, and love. Let us celebrate the fierce determination of women everywhere as they rise above the challenges of today’s society, reminding us that together, we are unstoppable.

So, sit back, tap your feet to the rhythm of the music, and let the magic of Grease remind you of the boundless strength that resides within each of us.

Enjoy the show!

Colleen Doyno Executive Director Pittsburgh Musical Theater

Cast PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTION FOR OVER 30 YEARS, PMT has been an anchor in the musical theatre industry in the Pittsburgh region.

Professional Productions feature local creative talent both on stage and in backstage roles. Truly unique and unmatched in the city, these productions also support PMT’s mission to provide mentorship and integrated opportunities with students of PMT Conservatory, creating a community of belonging and enhancing the vibrancy of our region.

Patrons can enjoy Professional Productions in multiple performance venues including the historic Broadway style Byham Theater in the Cultural District, and PMT’s own Off-Broadway style Gargaro Theater in the West End.

JERSEY BOYS, 2023 BYHAM THEATER PRO SHOW, PHOTO CREDIT: MATT POLK

ONCE, 2023 GARGARO THEATER PRO SHOW, PHOTO CREDIT: MATT POLK

Pittsburgh Musical Theater presents

BOOK, MUSIC, AND LYRICS BY

JIM JACOBS AND WARREN CASEY Props Master

Scenic Designer

Sound Designer

Lighting Designer

Costume Designer

Makeup & Wig Designer

Production Stage Manager

Associate Technical Director

Technical Director

Production Assistant

Amber Kocher

Tucker Topel

Greg Brooks

Forrest Trimble

Jeremy Eiben

Christopher Patrick

Gemma Williamson*

Kevin Kocher

Jonathan T. Sage

Andi Trageser

Music Director Dr. Francesca Tortorello

Directors / Choreographers Danny Herman, Rocker Verastique

Associate Director / Choreographer Lucas Fedele

Producer Colleen Doyno

MARCH 7TH - 17TH, 2024 | BYHAM THEATER GREASE is presented by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc., a Concord Theatricals Company. www.concordtheatricals.com Any video and/or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited.

Cast MUSICAL SYNOPSIS Act I “We Go Together” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Miss Lynch and Company “Alma Mater” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Miss Lynch and Company “Alma Mater Parody” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Company “Summer Nights” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sandy and Danny, Pink Ladies, and Greasers “Those Magic Changes” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Doody, Frenchy, and Students “Freddy, My Love” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marty and Pink Ladies “Greased Lightnin’” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kenickie, Greasers, and Mechanics “Greased Lightnin’ Reprise” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rizzo and Greasers “Mooning” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Roger and Jan “Look at Me, I’m Sandra Dee” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rizzo, Pink Ladies, and Greasers “Shakin’ at the High School Hop” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Company “It’s Raining on Prom Night” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Miss Lynch “Born to Hand-Jive” . . . . . . . . Johnny Casino, Patty, Eugene, Danny, Cha-Cha, and Company

Act II “Beauty School Dropout” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Teen Angel, Frenchy, and Angels “Sandy” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Danny “Hopelessly Devoted” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sandy “There Are Worse Things I Could Do” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rizzo “Look at Me, I’m Sandra Dee Reprise” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sandy, Rizzo, and Company “Rock ‘N’ Roll Party Queen” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Doody, Roger, and Miss Lynch “You’re the One That I Want” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Danny, Sandy, and Company “We Go Together” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Company

CAST Danny Zuko . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . DAVIS WAYNE* Sandy Dumbrowski . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MAYA SANTIAGO* Kenickie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BRECKEN NEWTON FARRELL* Sonny LaTierri . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAYTON LÉGER Roger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MICHAEL ZAK Doody . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BEN JOHNSON Rizzo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ZANNY LAIRD* Marty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MIA SCHMIDTETTER Jan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MADDIE YOUNG Frenchy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . EMILY PALMER Patty Simcox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ANYA EPSTEIN Eugene Florczyk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . GABRIEL SHOOP Miss Lynch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CHRISTINE LAITTA* Vince Fontaine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . DAVID TOOLE* Johnny Casino . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . DAMON OLIVER JR. Cha-Cha DiGregorio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HAILEY ROSE KASKY Teen Angel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . DAVID TOOLE* Ensemble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . RAYNA AKIN^, ILYSSA BAILS^, JUSTIN JAYNEA BARBER, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

LUCA BOUDREAU^, JAX CALDWELL, ASHLEY CALDWELL,

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

JAY CHAPMAN, BRI FALLAHEE, JAYDEN GREENING^,

DANIEL LAWRENCE, ADAM RICHARDSON, RACHEL JUBILEE TAI,

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

HANNAH TAYLOR, ELLIE TONGEL

Auxiliary Ensemble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . KAYLA BRILL^, BURGESS LYCHACK^ UNDERSTUDIES For Danny: DANIEL LAWRENCE; for Sandy: EMILY PALMER; for Kenickie: DANIEL LAWRENCE; for Roger: ADAM RICHARDSON; for Rizzo: HANNAH TAYLOR; for Marty: HANNAH TAYLOR; for Jan: HAILEY ROSE KASKY; for Frenchy: HANNAH TAYLOR; for Patty: ELLIE TONGEL; for Eugene: JAY CHAPMAN; for Miss Lynch: BRI FALLAHEE; for VINCE FONTAINE: DANIEL LAWRENCE; for Johnny Casino: ADAM RICHARDSON; for Cha-Cha: JUSTIN JAYNEA BARBER; for Teen Angel: DAMON OLIVER JR. Swing: ERIN KLOCKE * member of Actors’ Equity Association

^ student of PMT Conservatory

WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)

Rayna Akin^

Ilyssa Bails^

Justin Jaynea Barber

Luca Boudreau^

Kayla Brill^

Ashley Caldwell

Jax Caldwell

Jay Chapman

Anya Epstein

Bri Fallahee

Brecken Newton Farrell*

Jayden Greening^

Ben Johnson

Hailey Rose Kasky

Erin Klocke

Zanny Laird*

Christine Laitta*

Daniel Lawrence

Payton Léger

Burgess Lychack^

Damon Oliver Jr.

Emily Palmer

Adam Richardson

Maya Santiago*

Mia Schmidtetter

Gabriel Shoop

Rachel Jubilee Tai

Hannah Taylor

Ellie Tongel

David Toole*

Davis Wayne*

Maddie Young

Michael Zak

WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)

Rayna Akin^ (Ensemble) is a Junior at Broadway Conservatory in New York PA Leadership Charter School. She has attended Pittsburgh Musical Theater for over 5 years. PMT has helped her to advance her skills and obtain further education in theater. Her highlight performances include A Lyrical Christmas Carol (Belle), The Lightning Thief (Charon), Pippin (Catherine), and Les Misérables School Edition (Eponine). She plans to continue pursuing the arts after high school. Rayna would like to thank her friends and family for their support and encouragement to continue doing what she loves. She would not be where she is today without them.

Ilyssa Bails^ (Ensemble) is deeply grateful to return to the Byham stage for her second professional role with her Pittsburgh Musical Theater family. Ilyssa appeared at PMT as Brigitta in The Sound of Music in 2020. PMT Conservatory credits: Les Misérables School Edition (Eponine), A Lyrical Christmas Carol (Past, Belle), Pippin (Berthe), Disney’s The Little Mermaid (Flounder), and Annie (Annie).

Ilyssa is in 11th Grade at Pittsburgh Allderdice High School. Infinite thanks to the PMT resident artists and staff for always believing in her and teaching her “It doesn’t matter if you win or lose—it’s what you do with your dancing shoes.” @ilyssabails

Justin Jaynea Barber (Ensemble, U/S Cha-Cha) is thrilled to be performing in Grease with Pittsburgh Musical Theater!

Justin Jaynea is currently a Dance major in the Point Park Conservatory of Performing Arts. Justin previously studied Ballet at the Gelsey Kirkland Academy of Performing Arts, as well as being a graduate from the Steps on

City. Justin has worked with numerous choreographers such as Josh Bergasse, Chet Walker, Crystal Frazier, Chloe Arnold, Kijuanta (Kiki) Lucas, Pearlann Porter, and many more. Justin aspires to travel and perform around the world, to act in both film and on stage, and to continue her education in the field of dance for an MFA and a PhD. Justin enjoys reading and aspires to one day create her own at-home library, as well as write her own book.

Luca Boudreau^ (Ensemble) is thrilled to be part of PMT’s Grease at the Byham Theater! He is 16 years old and currently a sophomore at Pine Richland High School. He has been a student at PMT Conservatory for 8 years. He is very grateful for this opportunity and would like to thank all of his teachers at the Conservatory for shaping who he is today. He would also like to thank his friends and family for their support throughout his journey.

Kayla Brill^ (Ensemble) is thrilled to have the opportunity to work on another show with PMT. Kayla is a student at PMT Conservatory and attends West Mifflin High School as a senior. With PMT she has been involved in Pippin (Ensemble), Les Misérables School Edition (Ensemble), and A Lyrical Christmas Carol (Christmas Present). She was also involved in Mamma Mia! as Sophie (West Mifflin High School) and Shrek as Pinocchio (West Mifflin High School).

Kayla would like to thank Pmt for all of the opportunities they have given her throughout the past year. @kbrill0607

Ashley Caldwell (Ensemble) is ecstatic like to thank his friends and everyone to be joining her first professional production with PMT. Ashley is a freshman at Duquesne University and previously studied in the Teen Performance Intensive Program (TPIP) as a student in PMT Conservatory. She could most recently be seen as Berthe in Pippin and Erma in Anything Goes (2022 revision), for which she was awarded the Gene Kelly Award for best supporting actress. Additional theatrical works include: Clarisse La Rue, The Lightning Thief (PMT Conservatory); Serena/ Dance Captain, Legally Blonde (Thomas Jefferson High School); and Ghost of Christmas Past, A Lyrical Christmas Carol (PMT Conservatory).

Jax Caldwell (Ensemble) is ecstatic to make their debut in PMT’s production of Grease! Jax is from Wilmington DE but currently attends Point Park University as a Dance Major. Jax while at Point Park has appeared in numerous pieces such as: “Ya got to be ready” (Kiki Lucas), “The List” (Christopher Huggins), “Two Lost Souls” (Verdon/Fosse Legacy™), & “Universality” (Kiesha Lalama). Credits also include: Clue (Brandywine High), A Chorus Line (Brandywine High), “Nutcracker Spectacular” (The Kimmel Center), “Nutcracker 1776” (The Miller Theatre). As well as, will be a part of a reconstruction of Sing Sing Sing (78) with the Verdon/Fosse Legacy this spring for PPU’s Spring dance concert.

For more personal information please write to their mother.

that helped support him. He hopes you enjoy the show! Follow his adventures. @Thejaychapman Thejaychapman.com

Anya Epstein (Patty) is thrilled to be a part of this show as she makes her PMT debut! She is a Pittsburgh Native, who holds a Bachelors in Theater and Dance from Muhlenberg College. Some of her past favorite credits include Fiddler on the Roof (Chava/Dance Captain), Something Rotten (Dance Ensemble) with Stage 62, and Perdita (Sarah) with the New Hazlett Theatre. Anya has also had the privilege of performing in many danceworks and concerts, including “The Running Show” with Monica Bill Barnes & Company and working with choreographers such as Earl Mosley, Randall Smith, Megan Flynn, and George Staib. Offstage, you can find her teaching dance to her favorite students! www.anyaepstein.com

Bri Fallahee (Ensemble, U/S Miss

Lynch) is so honored to be back on stage after several years away, in the first show she ever did over 10 years ago!

Favorite credits include Elle Woods in Legally Blonde, Cathy Hiatt in The Last Five Years, and Anna in Spring Awakening.

She is currently living the dream as a Programming Manager at the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, and holds a BFA in Theatre Arts from Point Park University with a Directing concentration (Class of 2021). Bri would like to thank her parents, colleagues, Max, and Trader Joe’s peanut butter-filled pretzel nuggets for always supporting her.

Jay Chapman (Ensemble, U/S Eugene) @brifal_ is a Pittsburgh native and is ecstatic to be making his PMT & Byham debut! Brecken Newton Farrell* (Kenickie) Some of his recent credits include (Kent is excited to be performing with Levay) Stickfly, (Jafar) Descendants, Pittsburgh Musical Theater once again!

(Shane) The Kings of Delancey Lane. He was most recently seen at the Jay is a recent graduate of Point Park Byham Theater as Bob Gaudio in PMT’s University (BFA Acting 23). He would production of Jersey Boys. Other credits

with the company include Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar, Emcee in Once, and Scott in Evil Dead the Musical. In addition to theater, Brecken spends a lot of time in the music industry as a vocalist and guitarist, currently working on albums with several rock bands. He thanks God, his parents, his brother, his girlfriend, and all other friends and family who have supported him his entire life. Brecken dedicates his life’s work to Elmer and Joanne Lauster, his late grandparents who loved nothing more than seeing him perform. Isaiah 40:31

Jayden

Greening^ (Ensemble) is thrilled to be joining his first professional production with PMT. Jayden is a sophomore at Pittsburgh CAPA 6-12 and studies in the Teen Performance Intensive Program (TPIP) at PMT Conservatory. He could most recently seen as Jacob Marley, A Lyrical Christmas Carol (PMT Conservatory) and Thenardier, Les Misérables School Edition (PMT Conservatory). Jayden also works on his own independent films that can be found at jaydengreeningphotoandvideo on YouTube. Additional theatrical works include: Calvin O’keefe, A Wrinkle in Time (Prime Stage Theater); King Charlemagne, Pippin (PMT Conservatory); and Nick, The Prom (Pittsburgh CAPA).

Cedar Point and Kings Dominion. When not on stage, Ben loves to songwrite and release his music online. Ben thanks his friends and family for all their support! benjohnsonofficial.com

Hailey Rose Kasky (Cha-Cha, U/S Jan, Dance Captain) is thrilled to be in her first PMT production! Currently a senior at Point Park University, she will graduate in the spring with her B.F.A in Dance with a concentration in Jazz and a minor in Musical Theatre. Some of her Pittsburgh credits include Henry / Les U.S, Newsies (Pittsburgh Playhouse), Dancer, Mark Milovats’s Christmas Wonderland (Byham Theater), and several dance productions including Swing, “Rich Man’s Frug” (Pittsburgh Playhouse), Tapper, “Joy Moves” (Pittsburgh Playhouse), Dancer, Reintegrate GRW Theatre), and Choreographer of “Requiem” (GRW Theatre). Other credits also include Tour Actor/Director, Pacific Northwest Tour (Missoula Children’s Theatre), Choreographer, Alice by Heart (Coal City HS), Marty, Grease (Small Town Theatrics), and Ilsa, Spring Awakening (Small Town Theatrics). She sends all her love to her supportive family, friends, and loved ones. Merde divas! @hailey.r.kasky / haileyrosekasky.com

Erin Klocke (Swing, Assistant Dance Captain) is ecstatic to be a part of the

Ben Johnson (Doody) is so excited to amazing cast and crew of PMT’s Grease! be back in Pittsburgh with the cast and crew of Grease! Ben first appeared at PMT in both Once and Jersey Boys last year. Raised in Rockford, Illinois, Ben graduated from Rockford University where he earned his BFA in Musical Theatre. Ben most recently performed as Daddy Pig in the National Tour of Peppa Pig Live!. Credits also include Jerry, The Buddy Holly Story (Weston); Buddy, Elf (the Studio); Mitch, Dear Soldier Boy (Blue Gate) and theme park goers may have seen him perform at

Erin has had the pleasure of most recently performing in the production of Newsies (Pittsburgh Playhouse). She has also been a part of “Joy Moves” choreographed by Maud Arnold as well as other shows through Point Park University. She is thrilled to work with Danny Herman and Rocker Verastique again, and grateful to be in her first show on the PMT stage with all its wonderful cast and crew. She’d like to thank her family and friends for their unconditional love and support!

Zanny Laird* (Rizzo) is thrilled to be was last seen this past February at Heinz making her PMT debut at the Byham after last working on PMT’s Jesus Christ Superstar as the Associate Director. For over twenty years she has worked in TV, film, and theatre in Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York. Her resumé includes the world premiere productions of August: Osage County (Steppenwolf Theatre) and Trust (Lookingglass Theatre), the off-Broadway production of Kragtar: A Monster Musical (The West End Theatre), and the pre-Broadway workshop of Head Over Heels (Oregon Shakespeare Festival). Other local credits include The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk and The Cherry Orchard (Quantum Theatre), Phantom (PCLO), and Hamlet (Pittsburgh Shakespeare in the Parks). She holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Carnegie Mellon University and is a current Resident Artist at PMT.

Christine Laitta* (Miss Lynch) is

Hall as Fyedka/Russian Soloist in Fiddler on the Roof. Last October, he was Ed in PMT’s Evil Dead the Musical. A proud 2020 graduate of Manhattan School of Music’s Inaugural Musical Theatre Class: Credits include Emcee in Cabaret, and Orgasmic Male Solo in Wild Party. TV/ Film: Anything’s Possible (Amazon Prime), “American Rust Season 2” (Freevee) He is looking forward to writing more music.

Find him on YouTube: Blue Daniel - 1985.

Thank you to PMT’s Executive Director Colleen Doyno, the cast/creative team of Grease, and the rest of the PMT Family for welcoming me back! <3 :)

Payton Léger (Sonny) is an 18-yearold, recent graduate from high school! Payton attended Lincoln Park Performing Arts, where you may have seen him in shows such as An American in Paris (Adam) Puffs (Wayne Hopkins), and Murder on the Orient Express (Colenel Arbothnot), or even shows like Spongebob: THE MUSICAL (Sheldon J. Plankton) and Newsies (Race u/s Jack, u/s Davey) Just to name a few.

This is Payton’s first ever professional production outside of high school and he could not be any more gratuitous towards the creative team, crew, and even the Byham for allowing him to spread his wacky and coo-koo self toward the city of Pittsburgh! Thank you! Some of Payton’s upcoming projects include an indie horror film coming out later this year entitled House of Tears where he plays Green! @Payton Léger on instagram

a staple of the Pittsburgh Theater community and is thrilled to be working with her husband Paul Thompson (playing bass tonight!) Favorite shows include Sister Act, Into the Woods, Damn Yankees, Legally Blonde, The Diary of Anne Frank, On The Town, Guys and Dolls. She has written and produced her own highly successful cabaret show “TV TUNES Sing A Long” and is the co-author of “The Dramatically Different Classroom” (Kagan Publishing). Chris has also performed at the CLO Greer Cabaret in Forbidden Broadway, Girls Only, I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, Up and Away, Game On, Perfect Wedding and The Book of Merman. She is an acting teacher Burgess Lychack^ (Ensemble) is thrilled and coach and teaches at Pgh CAPA. She to be a part of this PMT production! She dedicates this show to her mom & her is a sophomore at Pittsburgh CAPA in husband Paul. chrislaitta.com the theater department. She has been Daniel Lawrence (Ensemble, U/S Vince a student at PMT for six years. Her Fontaine) is excited and grateful to be favorite shows she was in include, The back performing with PMT after being a Sound of Music (Marta Von-Trap) and A student here from the ages of 7-18. He Lyrical Christmas Carol (Christmas Past).

Damon Oliver Jr. (Johnny Casino, U/S likes to play video games, watch anime, Teen Angel) is elated to be performing with Pittsburgh Musical Theater in their production of Grease! They’ve had the pleasure of working with theater companies such as Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center, Viral Ventures, and Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera. They are also a choreographer for Allegheny Traditional Academy’s production of Finding Nemo Jr. Their most recent performance was Knowby in Evil Dead the Musical (PMT). You can find them @oliver.halo on all platforms!

Other credits include: Opening artist for rapper Cupcakke (Spirit), Malik Order in The House (Playwrights Theatre Fest), Actor educator (Saltworks Theatre Co.).

be in nature, and can always destroy a bag of Spicy Sweet Chili Doritos. Adam would like to thank his friends, family, and loved ones for their continued love, care, and support through his journey.

Maya Santiago* (Sandy) is filled with

joy and deep gratitude to be back at PMT! National Tour: On Your Feet! OffBroadway: Shooting Star. Regional: Jesus Christ Superstar (Pittsburgh Musical Theatre), Disney’s AIDA (STAGES St. Louis). Television: “SPRUNG” on Amazon Prime TV, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade live on NBC. Staten Island native.

Endless thanks to The Mine Agency, Point Park University and her mom for all her wisdom and unconditional love.

Emily Palmer (Frenchy, U/S Sandy) All glory belongs to God! is so excited to be back onstage with @mayalsantiago PMT in Grease! Emily most recently Mia Schmidtetter (Marty) is thrilled appeared at PMT early this season in Evil to be returning to the Byham stage after Dead the Musical (Linda) and last season 6 years! Previous credits with PMT with Jersey Boys. Emily’s recent credits include The Hunchback of Notre Dame include: The Sweet Escapes (Hersheypark, (Gargoyle), Sister Act (nun), Disney’s The RWS), Michelle/u/s Deloris, Sister Act Little Mermaid, Young Frankenstein, Shrek, (Suncoast Broadway Dinner Theatre), Grease, Saturday Night Fever, and Peter Bella, Scrooge No More (Busch Gardens Pan. Recent credits include The Boston Williamsburg), Mary Jane, Monster Conservatory’s Shrek (tapping rat). Her Stomp on Ripper Row (Busch Gardens favorite PMT Conservatory roles with Williamsburg).

PMT include Cassie in A Chorus Line

Adam Richardson (Ensemble, U/S and Maureen in RENT. Mia is currently Roger & Johnny Casino) Adam is very excited to be making his PMT debut with such an iconic show as Grease! Adam graduated from the American Musical and Dramatic Academy back in the summer of 2022. Since then he has been on a mission to get theatre credits all over the country, most recently making his Off-Broadway debut in Will Wilson Saves the World in NYC, Moose in Crazy For You in Pittsburgh, Hector in To The Fairest in NYC, Shrek in Shrek! The Musical in Asheville, NC, and is currently a part of the Gallery of Heroes 2024 tour with Pittsburgh CLO. In his free time, Adam

earning her Doctor of Pharmacy at Duquesne University here in Pittsburgh, and is over the moon to have the opportunity to step back onto the stage! @mia_tetter

Gabriel Shoop (Eugene) is excited to make his PMT debut! He is a recent graduate of Point Park University with a B.F.A in dance and a double minor in musical theatre and history. Previous credits include Spamalot (The Strand), R&H’s Cinderella, and Curtains (Pittsburgh Playhouse). He has also been a part of choreographic works by Kiesha Lalama,

Pearlann Porter, Rozanna Sweeney, Christopher Huggins, Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, Martha Graham, and Bob Fosse.

Gabriel is grateful to his family and friends for their support in his post-grad artistic endeavors.

Rachel Jubilee Tai (Ensemble) (She/ Her) is a 2nd Generation, Chinese American Artist from Chicago, IL. She is currently a Pittsburgh based performer, completing her BFA in Modern Dance with a Minor in Musical Theatre at Point Park University. Through the Conservatory of Performing Arts at Point Park University, Jubilee has performed works by Robyn Mineko Williams and Al Blackstone. She was also seen as an Ensemble member in Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella at the Pittsburgh Playhouse. Jubilee is excited to be in her first PMT show!

Hannah Taylor (Ensemble, U/S Pink Ladies) is incredibly honored and thrilled to be back working with PMT! She graduated from Seton Hill University with a BFA in Musical Theatre. Some of her performing credits include: Roz, 9 to 5 (The Strand Theater); Ensemble/ Female Swing, Evil Dead the Musical (Pittsburgh Musical Theater); Ariel/ Choreographer, Footloose! (Wexford Acting Studio); Nicola, Kinky Boots (Split Stage Productions); Choreographer/ Disciple, Godspell (Wexford Acting Studio); and Caroline Neville, Titanic (Split Stage Productions). Some of her film credits include being a Featured Extra in The Deliverance (NETFLIX), The Princess in Tapestry (Markee Media Productions), and the Announcer in the Ohio Means Jobs! Commercial (Voyage Visuals). She has also dedicated her time to RWS Entertainment as a dancer and performer throughout the years.

Hannah is grateful to be working with such a hardworking and talented cast

and crew. She would finally like to thank all of her family and friends for their endless support. Enjoy the show!

Ellie Tongel (Ensemble, U/S Patty) is thrilled to be returning to the PMT family in Grease! Being from the Pittsburgh area, Ellie grew up as a student of PMT Conservatory, performing in numerous regional productions with both Pittsburgh Musical Theater and the Pittsburgh CLO. She is currently a sophomore studying business and theatre arts at the University of Pittsburgh. Ellie is also represented by The Talent Group and a cast member of Enchanted Experiences!

She is so grateful for the opportunity to continue performing in Pittsburgh with such a fantastic group of people! Ellie would like to thank the incredible cast and creative team for making this such a wonderful experience, as well as all her family and friends for their love and support always. @_ellietongel_

David Toole* (Teen Angel, Vince Fontaine) Select Regional credits include Tuachan Performing Arts Center: Count of Monte Cristo (The Count/Edmund Dantès), School of Rock (Theo / Dewey u/s]); w/ Theatre Raleigh NC: Great Comet of 1812 (Pierre), Once (Guy), Rock of Ages (Drew); w/ Berkshire Theatre Group: Once (Guy), w/ Pittsburgh Musical Theater: Once (Guy), Tarzan (Tarzan), Jesus Christ Superstar (Judas), Newsies (Jack Kelly), Disney’s The Little Mermaid (Prince Eric), West Side Story (Tony), We Will Rock You (Galileo Figaro).

With Pittsburgh CLO: Once (Emcee), Pump Boys and Dinettes (Jim), First Date (Reggie/Gabe). With Front Porch: A Man of No Importance (Robbie), The Last 5 Years (Jamie) David recently worked with two legendary composers; as a soloist alongside Jason Robert Brown at the Contemporary Art Museum of

Raleigh NC and with Frank Wildhorn in the title role of a new production of Count of Monte Cristo the Musical at the Tuacahn Performing Arts Center.

Outside of theater David is a National Anthem singer for the Pittsburgh Penguins, a Estill Certified private voice instructor (davidtoolevocalcoach. com), vocalist /co-songwriter for the band Identity X (idxmusic.com), and Streetlight Amber (streetlightamber. com); a husband and father. Glory and thanks to Jesus Christ for his continued provisions and unmoving forgiveness. To my superhuman wife Katie and our wild and wonderful two sons Barrett and Elijah! IG: @davidmichaeltoole

Davis Wayne* (Danny) is thrilled to

love and support. This is a dream come true. Enjoy the show! @maddie.young12

Michael Zak (Roger) is incredibly excited to make his PMT debut! Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Michael is no stranger to the local stages, having performed with Split Stage Theater in RENT and Trafford Theatre Factory in A Taffeta Wedding. After studying Vocal Performance at CMU and Musical Theatre at Texas Tech University, Michael made his Off-Broadway debut as Harold/The Professor in the world premier of It Came From Beyond! (St. Luke’s Theatre). Other performances include: Ram, Heathers (Lubbock Moonlight Musicals); Sam/Mr. Burns, Mr. Burns A Post Electric Play (Texas Tech); Henry, Next to Normal (Texas Tech). In addition to performing, Michael has also music directed several Off-Broadway shows, and is currently set to music direct RENT this summer at Stage 62.

Michael is part of the faculty at PMT Conservatory as a resident artist, and runs his own private voice and piano studio! All inquiries/new students: michaelzaksings@gmail.com

be back at PMT where he grew up as a student! He was last seen on the PMT stage in the 2015 production of Disney’s Little Mermaid. He has been a New Yorker for over ten years, but will always be a yinzer at heart. Broadway: New York, New York!, Hadestown. National Tour: Hello, Dolly! Regional: Riff in Jerome Robbins’ Broadway (Muny). Chicago (Muny). 11 shows at PCLO. Tommy in The Music Man (North Shore). And too many PMT shows to even count! Thank Colleen Doyno (Executive Director, you to everyone from the back of house Producer) has been with PMT since to the front! LDTB @Davis_Wayne 1997. Ms. Doyno directed and choreographed countless shows for Maddie Young (Jan) is a recent both the Professional and Conservatory graduate of Point Park University and theater companies. Several of these is delighted to make her professional shows have been counted as the “Best debut with PMT in one of her favorite of Pittsburgh” in the annual Pittsburgh shows, Grease! She most recently Post-Gazette year in review; including performed as Martina 2 in Almost Equal the Conservatory Theater Company’s To (Point Park Conservatory). Other 2013 production of Miss Saigon, the credits include: Everybody (Point Park first student show to be so honored.

Conservatory), Ride the Cyclone (Bridges In 2013 Colleen’s achievements Theatre Company), and Putnam County were recognized with the prestigious Spelling Bee (Bridges Theatre Company). “Woman of Integrity” award and her She wants to thank everyone at PMT for commitment to mentoring young this wonderful opportunity, as well as women into future leaders was honored her family and friends for their endless 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.

Danny

Herman (Director, Choreographer) Mr. Herman has appeared on Broadway in Contact, A Chorus Line (Mike), Leader of the Pack, Song and Dance (First National Tour), Big Bad Burlesque (Off-Broadway), Die Soldaten (NYC Opera) and was the associate choreographer for Michael Bennett’s Pre-Broadway Workshops of Scandal. A recipient of the Jeff Award (Chicago), the After Dark Award (Chicago) and the B. Iden Payne Award (Austin, TX), Mr. Herman has directed and/or choreographed World Premier musicals at the Goodman (Chicago), Long Wharf (New Haven), Zipper Theater (NYC), Ford’s Theater (Washington, D.C.), City Theatre (Pittsburgh), Playwrights Horizons (NYC), George Street Playhouse (New Brunswick, NJ), Directors Company (NYC), Theaterfest (Upper Montclair, NJ), Bottom Line (NYC), The Rep (Nashville), The Royal George (Chicago), LA Children’s Theater, Naked Angels Theater Company (NYC)

as well as dozens of other Broadway Musical Classics all over the country.

Mr. Herman choreographed George Lucas Super Live Adventure (Japanese Tour), Jane Fonda Workouts (Designed by Theoni Aldredge, Shubert Theater, NYC), Tabaluga and Lilli (2 European Tours), the 1987 national tour of Dreamgirls, and the movie Two Step. Mr. Herman directed and choreographed Madhattan (New York, New York Hotel & Casino, Vegas), Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus (3 International Editions), Rugrats - A Live Adventure (2 World Tours) and the acclaimed Dreamgirls - the 20th Anniversary Benefit Concert for The Actors’ Fund.

Rocker

Verastique (Director, Choreographer) Rocker Verastique appeared in the original Broadway companies of Contact, Chicago, Victor/ Victoria and Carousel. Mr. Verastique’s other Broadway credits include Miss Saigon, Phantom of the Opera and The Ziegfeld Follies of 1936, as well as the world premiere productions of Hearts Desire, Jekyll and Hyde, Spirit and the Broadway workshop of Fosse. Rocker’s other credits include Paul in A Chorus Line (Pittsburgh Musical Theater), Konstantine Morrisine in On Your Toes (Gateway Playhouse. NY), Sophisticated Ladies (Drury Lane, Chicago), Feld Ballet, Los Angeles Chamber Ballet, danced six years with artistic director Mikhail Baryshinikov in American Ballet Theatre.

In Los Angeles, he spent four years on the television series Fame and was the male lead in the award winning music video “Nasty” opposite Janet Jackson.

Mr. Verastique has choreographed dozens of musical theater classics all over the country, as well as, Cabaret (Saint Edward’s University), Chicago (Austin Playhouse), Miss Saigon (Pittsburgh Musical Theater), Leader Of The Pack, Dreamgirls and Beehive

(Pittsburgh Playhouse), Five Guys Named Moe and Little Me (Candlelight, Chicago), A Chorus Line (Geva, Rochester NY), Helldriver’s of Daytona (Royal George, Chicago) and the movie Two Step, as well as co-choreographing Rugrats - A Live Adventure (2 World Tours).

Lucas Fedele (Associate Director, Choreographer) has been involved in over 40 productions at PMT as a creative and performer since 1999. He is proud to be coming full circle back to the Byham Theater with Grease, which was one of first professional productions he had the opportunity to perform in as a student of the PMT Conservatory. Other performance credits include network television, the national tours of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas and Hello, Dolly!, Helen Hayes and Jeff Award-winning productions in Washington, D.C. and Chicago, and over a dozen productions with Pittsburgh CLO. On creative teams he has developed new musicals Off and Off-Off Broadway and with locally with City Theater. He would like to thank his mentors (the murderer’s row of Pittsburgh theater, most of whom he met at PMT), forever friends, and current and former students who are involved in every level of this production.

Special love and thanks to his brilliant wife, Zanny Laird, for making Grease! the word.

Dr. Francesca Tortorello, D.M.A. (Music Director) is the Resident Music Director of PMT. Recent productions include Joseph..., HAIR, Disney’s Newsies, and The Sound of Music. She teaches multiple classes for the pre-college program in the PMT Conservatory.

Dr. Tortorello is also an accomplished classical musician and performs with a variety of instrumentalists and singers.

She frequently collaborates with members of the Pittsburgh Symphony.

A dedicated teacher and coach, she has

maintained an active piano teaching studio for the past twenty years. Dr. Tortorello began piano lessons at the age of four in her hometown of Mount Kisco, NY. She holds a Bachelors degree in Piano Performance from the Cleveland Institute of Music where she studied with Antonio Pompa-Baldi. She received a Masters degree and Professional Studies certificate in Collaborative Piano from CIM, studying with Virginia Weckstrom. She also earned a Doctorate in Collaborative Piano and Coaching at the University of Minnesota and studied with Timothy Lovelace. Francesca & her husband, Pittsburgh Symphony cellist Michael DeBruyn, have been performing as a professional duo since ‘04.

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 (Associate Technical Director) has set designed shows at PMT including Sister Act, Jekyll and Hyde, We Will Rock You, and Disney’s Newsies.

He has also worked in various technical positions at PMT and PMT Conservatory : 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, educating students in technical theater design and application in full scale productions.

Kevin attended Clarion University of PA, earned a B.S. in Education, and studied theatrical design and direction.

Andonetta Chiarina Trageser (Andi) theater in the Pittsburgh region and is a (Production Assistant) is so excited to work with such an amazing cast and crew on PMT’s production of Grease!

Previous Pittsburgh Musical Theater credits include: Disney’s Newsies Jr. (Stage Manager), Disney’s High School Musical Jr. (Stage Manager), Evil Dead the Musical (Production Assistant), Once (Production Assistant), Pippin (Berthe), and Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Gargoyle). Andi spent 5 years as a student of the PMT Conservatory and has now returned to the PMT Family as an Associate Resident Artist. Thank you to PMT’s Executive Team for allowing her to live her dreams every day and a special thank you to Danny, Rocker, Francesca, Lucas, and Gemma. Andi would also like to dedicate all of 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

member of IATSE local 798.

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 and has over a decade of experience as a designer, stylist, and fashion aficionado.

His style embodies boldness & versatility and can cater to a wide clientele audience. His many interests include costuming, cosplay, and theatre. Jeremy is a freelance designer who has worked with multiple companies such as The Utah Shakespeare Festival, Pittsburgh Musical Theater, Pittsburgh Playhouse REP/Main Stage/JR./Dance, Penn State Centre Stage, Resonance Works, Upper St. Clair High School and Stage 62. Past costume designs include Closer Than Ever (2023, Pittsburgh Playhouse), Into The Woods (2023, Centre Stage), Rent (2022, Centre Stage), and The Wild Party (2021, Forrest Trimble (Lighting Designer) has Centre Stage) Jeremyetaylordesign.com been a designer in the Pittsburgh area and has been working with PMT for over Gemma Williamson* (Production ten years. As a designer at PMT, Forrest Stage Manager) Favorite PMT credits has realized the designs of In The Heights, include Evil Dead the Musical, Once, Jersey HAIR, and Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Boys, Jesus Christ Superstar (winner of as well as many designs with the PMT Broadway World Pittsburgh’s Best Conservatory. Outside of the company Lighting Design of a Play or Musical Forrest has worked with multiple shows and Best Musical 2022), The Sound in the area. Wizard of Oz, Jazz Nutcracker, of Music, Les Miserables, Cinderella, and Cinderella with Morgantown Dance Shrek, Annie, Beauty and the Beast, Studio. Four Chord Music Festival and and Miss Saigon. Upcoming: Million Jubilee with Hearcorp. Forrest is also the Dollar Quartet. Gemma has spent resident designer at Moon Area High fifteen years at PMT as the Director of School and Pine-Richland Area High Production Operations and a member School as well as an assistant designer of the Actor’s Equity Association for at the Pittsburgh Opera and a designer PMT’s Professional Company and PMT Conservatory Productions. Gemma has with Bold designs. been seen serving on the production Christopher Patrick (Makeup & Wig teams at South Park Theatre, Robert Designer) has been designing shows Morris Colonial Theatre, Freedom Area for PMT since 2007, and it is such a High School, and Plum Borough High joy to continue working with them. School. She would like to endlessly Christopher works in film television and thank PMT’s Executive Team, the

members of the American Federation of Musicians, the cast and creative team, her teammate/husband/cat-dad, and her mom. Keep up with Gemma by following @missgemmamitch. Throw your mittens around your kittens and away we go!

Tucker Topel (Scenic Designer) (He/ Him) is a Pittsburgh based scenic designer and teaching artist, after growing up in the southern Wisconsin area. He is an alum of Point Park University. Recent local design credits include: A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Mercyhurst University), 9 to 5 (Stage 62), Abduction The Musical (MTAP), Meanwhile (CSA Program at The New Hazlett Theater), and HOARD (off the WALL). He also works with local schools including Moon Area HS, Seneca Valley HS, and CAPA Pittsburgh 6-12.

Jonathan T. Sage (Sound Designer & Technical Director) has been with PMT for more than ten years and is excited to be part of another production. A Michigan State University alumnus, additional credits include The Boarshead Professional Theater in Lansing, MI and The Ohio Light Opera in Wooster, OH. Jonathan would like to thank his family for all of their love & support.

Warren Casey (Author, Composer and Lyricist) was born in Yonkers, New

York, and attended Syracuse University.

During the late ‘50s, be learned all about “greasers” while working as an art teacher in upstate New York. He moved to Chicago in 1962, where he hoped to pursue an acting career. He appeared in dozens of productions, including creating the role of Bernie Litko in David Mamet’s Sexual Perversity in Chicago. He supported himself with jobs in retail, including working as an assistant manager of a chain of apparel stores, and as a record salesman. In the meantime, be taught himself how to

play the guitar and began writing songs.

Mr. Casey acted with the Chicago Stage Guild (where he met Jim Jacobs), the Old Town Players, and the Kingston Mines Theatre. The latter company staged the original production of GREASE which he wrote with Jim Jacobs. After the incredible success of both the musical and the movie, the two collaborated on Island of Lost Coeds, a musical satire of the B-movies of the 1950s. Mr. Casey died in 1988.

Jim Jacobs (Book, Music and Lyrics) Jacobs, who created Grease (in 1970) with Warren Casey, was born and raised on the mean streets of Chicago’s far northwest side. During the golden era of rock ‘n’ roll (1956-1960) he was a guitar-playing “greaser” student at Taft High School. In 1963, Jacobs met Warren Casey when they were both cast in a local theatre production of A Shot in the Dark. Seven years later they wrote what was to became one of the greatest musicals of all time. Grease opened in 1971 in a former trolley barn called the Kingston Mines Theatre in Chicago. A year later, Grease made it to Broadway and “Greasemania” took off, resulting in one of the longest running shows in Broadway history. The 1978 movie became and remains the highest grossing movie musical of all time.

Originally an actor, Jacobs has been seen on television, in motion pictures, regional theatre, national tours, and on Broadway. He is the co-author of several other plays and musicals including Island of Lost Coeds, a musical spoof of the low budget sci-Ii/horror/jungle movies of the 1950s, which he wrote with Warren Casey. In May 2014, Mr. Jacobs was presented with an honorary doctorate degree from Columbia College in Chicago. He currently resides in Southern California and remains active in the theatre, especially with the American Theatre Company of Chicago.

P I T T S B U R G H

MUSICAL THEATER

inspired by the electrifying true story A MUSICAL ABOUT THE LEGENDS THAT MADE ROCK ‘N’ ROLL HISTORY. featuring hit songs INCLUDING “blue suede shoes,” “fever,” “walk the line,” “great balls of fire,” “HOUND DOG,” “whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on,” and more!

APRIL 18 - MAY 12

GARGARO THEATER SPONSORED BY:

TRUSTARTS.ORG | 412.456.6666

CONSERVATORY

JUNE 24 - JULY 21 BROADWAY JUNIORS AGES 4 - 7

PRETEENS AGES 8 - 12

TEENS AGES 13 - 18

conservatory@pittsburghmusicals.com • 412.539.0900

327 S Main Street, Pittsburgh’s West End

PITTSBURGHMUSICALS.COM/SMT

Proud Sponsor of

PITTSBURGH MUSICAL THEATER & their West End Forever Home!

www.rdcollab.com

Follow us on social media for the latest news:

@PMTMUSICALS

@PITTSBURGHMUSICALTHEATER

CLICK HERE TO RECEIVE OUR EMAIL NEWSLETTER!

@PMTMUSICALS

THE PMT FUND

PMT and Pittsburgh audiences,

If you like what you see, and want to learn more about how to become a supporter of Pittsburgh Musical Theater as we continue to bring excellent, affordable musical theater to the region, check out the PMT Fund and join our community of donors who make it possible

DONATE THE

FUND

PMT is proud to support our guests and community partners in our West End home!

Confluence Ballet Co. and Kulture Dance Academy

Photo Courtesy of Confluence Ballet Co.

Photo Courtesy of Kulture Dance Academy

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 December 1, 2022 and March 4, 2024. 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

FOREVER FRIENDS CIRCLE $1,000 - $2,499

STANDING OVATION $250 - $499

Allegheny County Regional Asset District Ken and Colleen Doyno Heinz Endowments Henry C. Frick Educational Fund of the Buhl Foundation Hillman Foundation The Jack Buncher Foundation Jendoco Construction Corporation PA Council on the Arts The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust The Pittsburgh Foundation Peter C. Dozzi Family Foundation PNC Charitable Trusts Vernon C. and Alvina B. Neal Fund

Anonymous (1) Jennifer and Michael Bails Larry and Rikki Berger Adam and Jenny Birch Randy and Cathy Emanuelson Michael and Elizabeth Forgy The Fourcade Family Malinda Hallett Ken and Jane Gargaro Alicia and Michael Klein The Kuhn Family Kathleen Kuhn, in Memory of Dwight Kuhn Maria Lewis Rochelle Lilien Family of Theresa Sage, in memory of Theresa Sage and Peter Sage The Schmidtetter Family Barry Tague

Anonymous (1) Christopher Akin Sandra Bails, in honor of Ilyssa Bails Stephen Black Consol Cares Foundation Allison Hannon and William Dodds Greg and Julie Dodds Marianne Downer Ellen J. Doyno The Duddie Family Vince Gargaro Jan Glick Karen and Brian Hannon The Mueller Family Cara Shuckett John and Elsie Viehman, in honor of Gabriella Viehman Rachael Viehman The Yakubic Family, in memory of Joe Carlino

DIRECTOR’S CIRCLE $5,000 - $9,999 Baird City of Pittsburgh Dollar Bank O’Connor Family Foundation Fund of the Pittsburgh Foundation Stephen L. Yoset ACTOR’S CIRCLE $2,500 - $4,999 Arsenal Cider House Boyd & Blair The Magic Lantern Mike’s Beer Bar North Shore Tavern Jakub Sprankle Family The Family of Craig Williamson

BRAVO $500 - $999 Anonymous The Baun Family Cheryl Begandy Robert and Kathleen Boudreau Kaitlyn Hendrickson Ink Division Printing Ken and Linda Krynski Charles and Joan Moff The Students of PMT Conservatory Melissa Wissel Unisound

CHEERS $100 - $249 Anonymous (7) Michael J. Accetta Maureen and Andrew Andoga Harry and Ronna Back Anderson Bailey John and Dotti Bechtol Emily L. Brooks Dr. and Mrs. L. Wayne Bossola, in honor of Anthony Gargaro Gloria Caceres Joseph and Shannon Christof Nat Cohen Cohen Chiropractic Trigger

ACCOLADES OF GIVING Point Center Bruce Crocker Stephen Cuden Kelly Cullen Stephen Doerfler Carmen Ellington Michelle Farrell Wynne Fedele, in honor of Lucas Fedele and Zanny Laird Brad and Leanne Lisien Lauri Fink Tamara Giluk Lucas Fedele and Zanny Laird The Darke Family The DeBruyn Tortorello Family Lori Delale-O’Connor Andrew Dodds Timothy Dodds Mary Grace Hannon The Kocher Family Cliff and Roseanne Levine Steven Irwin, in honor of Colleen Doyno Madeline Mamaux John and Shauna Marlowe Jennifer Mentz Susan Monteverde Penney Miller Gemma and Nick Mitchell The Parsons Family Mary Rehak Jennifer Reitzell Dorothy and Nicholas Rescher Beth Ross Joseph and Rhonda Popovich Megan Shaffer Michael and Nancy Sheleheda The Toole Family

Michael Troiani Gina Vellucci Raymond and Kathy Wayne Carol and Bryan Young Kevin Ziperstein

PMT wishes to gratefully acknowledge supporters of our comprehensive campaign, Elevating the PMT Experience for All: Allegheny County Economic Development Allegheny Regional Asset District Edith L. Trees Charitable Trust Heinz Endowments Hillman Foundation McCune 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, at: 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 visit pittsburghmusicals.com/donate if you would like to join this list of generous supporters.

PRODUCTION Producer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Colleen Doyno Directors / Choreographers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Danny Herman, Rocker Verastique Associate Director / Choreographer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lucas Fedele Music Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Francesca Tortorello Production Stage Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gemma Williamson* Scenic Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tucker Topel Lighting Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Forrest Trimble Props Master . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Amber Kocher Technical Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jonathan T. Sage Costume Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jeremy Eiben Sound Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Greg Brooks Makeup & Wig Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Christopher Patrick Dance Captain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hailey Rose Kasky Associate Technical Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kevin Kocher Assistant Dance Captain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Erin Klocke Production Assistant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Andi Trageser Scenic Charges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Kelsey Jamison, Amber Shuman Student Production Assistants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kayla Brill, Burgess Lychack, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PMT Conservatory Technical Theater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . & Design Program Students Promotional Production Photographer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . DNapps Productions Production Photographer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Matt Polk Additional Makeup Artists: Kailynn Aragon, Genevieve Bogdan, Caity Byers, Kenzie DeFranco, Natalie Estok, Avery Ferrell, Michael Fitsmaurice, Troy Sellman, Jayden Solovey, Andi Trageser Special Thanks: Trey Compton, Fort Couch Middle School, Brett Goodnack, Callee Miles, Jess Val Ortiz, Nathan Sudie Band: Keys / Conductor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Francesca Tortorello Guitar 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ken Karsh Guitar 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dan Mihelerakis Tenor Sax 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rick Matt Tenor Sax 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sam Eisenreich Bass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Paul Thompson Drums . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PJ Gatch

P I T T S B U R G H

MUSICAL THEATER

Pittsburgh Musical Theater (PMT) is a 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.

PMT Board Officers: President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Stephen L. Yoset Vice President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Michael Kuhn Secretary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carmen Ellington Treasurers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rochelle Lilien PMT Board of Directors: Larry Berger, Adam Birch, Malinda Hallett, Kaitlyn Hendrickson, Michael D. Klein, Maria Lewis, Joseph F. Mendel, Tyson Sears Ex Officio: State Representative Dan Deasy, Senator Wayne Fontana

Administration Operations Executive Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Colleen Doyno Director of Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Allison Hannon Director of Finance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kate Toole Marketing & Media Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lindsay Kalbfleisch Graphic Designer & Marketing Associate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brianna Booher

Production Director of Production Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gemma Mitchell Technical Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jonathan T. Sage Resident Music Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Francesca Tortorello Box Office & Audience Services Manager, Accessibility Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Amber Kocher

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 of Pittsburgh Musical Theater 23/24 Season Sponsors

DYNAMIC. 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

Once, Gargaro Theater

DRIVEN. Supporting a company mission that is committed to youth development, integrated opportunities for young artists and local professionals, and building a diverse creative community

Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Byham Theater

VERSATILE. 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 A Lyrical Christmas Carol, Gargaro Theater