The Players Guild of Dearborn presents A CHRISTMAS CAROL

2 02 3– 2 024 | VO L U M E 9 6 , N U M B E R 2

by

CHARLES DICKENS

adapted to the stage by

ROMULUS LINNEY

A CHRISTMAS CAROL (LINNEY) is presented by special arrangement with Broadway Licensing, LLC, servicing the Dramatists Play Service Collection. www.dramatists.com

November 10–12, 17–19, and 24–26, 2023 Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. | Sundays at 2:30 p.m.

PLATINU M SEASON SPONSOR

P R E S I D E N T ’ S

M E S S A G E

Greetings and Welcome to The Players Guild of Dearborn!

We kicked off our 96th season with the resounding success of our opening show, Young Frankenstein! Audience response was fantastic, the cast and crew had a great time and our theater was full. All of the hallmarks of an outstanding community theatre experience.

Since the pandemic, we have worked hard to build back to the levels of audience and member engagement that the Guild has celebrated for years. We have worked to stage shows that you, our loyal patrons, would enjoy and that would be fun and challenging for our troupe to perform, That hard work is paying off as you will experience with this production of A Christmas Carol.

A Christmas Carol is led by legendary, lifetime Guild member, Paul Bruce. Paul’s shows are always filled with magic and fun, and this production has those traits and more. This cast and crew reflect the best of the Guild, filled with veterans and newcomers who have come together to bring this beloved story to life. A perfect way to begin the holiday season!

I have said for years (please note the laughs and eye rolls from my friends) that the Players Guild is a genuinely great Community Theatre, because both of those words— Community AND Theatre—are of equal value to us. We work hard and challenge ourselves to consistently do high-quality productions that we will enjoy working on and that our audiences will enjoy seeing. But it takes a true community effort to sustain a local theater company for 96 years. We are committed to being a place where everyone feels welcome and accepted, bound together by our love of the magic of live theatre. We want you, our loyal patrons, to feel that as well. As we look toward our 100th anniversary, we want to continue to grow our outreach and reputation. We are always interested in what you have to say. Many of you will receive a link for a survey after this show and there is a link in this program as well. Please take a few minutes and let us know what you think. As President, I have the privilege of meeting and talking with all of our members and patrons.

I love to hear what you’re thinking and look forward to connecting with you. Feel free to drop me a note at President@thepgd.org.

All non-profits need to continually raise funds. The support we have received over the years is amazing. It takes more than just ticket sales to maintain and improve our theater. For the last several years we have made a consistent effort, led by past President John Sczomak, at writing grants and seeking funds from government and philanthropic organizations. These efforts have led to improvements in our sound system and a variety of other needs to keep the theater operating. Your support for our 50/50 raffle and purchase of refreshments and Guild swag during intermission, as well as your support of our campaigns like this season’s Cool the Clubroom allow us to continue making all the necessary repairs to our building. Please see details elsewhere in this program of how you can lend your support. Thank you in advance for your generous backing of these efforts.

We would not exist without you!

Thank you again for your continued engagement and support of the Players Guild of Dearborn. Enjoy the Magic of Live Theatre with this production of A Christmas Carol!

— Mike Moseley, President 1

Proud to Support The Players Guild of Dearborn.

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THE PLAYERS GUILD OF DEARBORN PROUDLY PRESENTS

T H E

C A S T & T H E I R in alphabetical order

R O L E S

Barnabas Appleton......................... Gravedigger #1/Caroline’s Husband/Man With A Violin Jake Appleton..................................................................Scrooge As A Boy/Caroline’s Child #1 Julie Ballantyne Brown.......................................................................................... Mrs. Cratchit Alexis Bartrum.................................................................................. Caroline/Fred’s Wife Julia Atam Bedikian................................................................. The Ghost of Christmas Past/Old Joe Josh Beurer......................................................... Gentleman #2/Mr. Fezziwig/Businessman #2 Savior Borg.................................................................................................. Tiny Tim/Ignorance Kaitlyn Cross...........................Fezziwig’s Daughter #2/Miranda Cratchit/Old Joe’s Child #1 Joe Donovan..................................................................................................... Ebenezer Scrooge Liz Downey.......................................................................................... Valentine/Peter Cratchit Emmett Gorsline.........................................................Boy Singing A Carol/Old Joe’s Child #2 Malcolm Gorsline...................................................................................Ragamuffin Boy/Orson Degrim Gretz...................................................... Scrooge As A Young Man/Topper/Dead Body Dylan Hart.............................................................................................Fred/Schoolboy’s Father Garrett Hermen.......................... Gravedigger #2/The Ghost of Jacob Marley/Businessman #1 Aric Liljegren...........................................................................................................Bob Cratchit Diane Manko-Cliff..................................................................................... Narrator/Laundress Aliahna Mesahn.......................................................... Belle/The Ghost of Christmas Yet To Be Oscar Nieman............................................................................. Townsperson/Schoolboy/Want Samantha Odom......................Fezziwig’s Daughter #3/Belinda Cratchit/Caroline’s Child #2 Branden Omoregie.............. Gentleman #1/The Ghost of Christmas Present/Businessman #3 Bekah Stankiewicz............................................ Fan/Fezziwig’s Daughter #1/Martha Cratchit Mo Thomas.......................................................................Mrs. Fezziwig/Undertaker’s Woman Sam Volpe................................................. Schoolboy’s Mother/Julia’s Sister Lucy/Charwoman (approximately 100 unnamed additional roles are played by the entire ensemble.)

T H E

S E T T I N G

The story takes place in and around London during Christmas Eve and Christmas day of 1842.

There will be one 15-minute intermission between Act I and Act II. 3

P R O D U C T I O N Director/Choreographer....................................................................................................... Paul Bruce Assistant Director............................................................................................................ Ashley Gatesy Producers........................................................................................... Tim Carney and Tom Downey Original Music....................................................................................................................... Paul Bruce Set Design................................................................................................................................ Paul Bruce Scenic Painting.....................................................................................James Kirwan and Paul Bruce assisted by Barnabas Appleton, Julie Ballantyne Brown, and Joe Donovan Set Construction....................................Janeen and Josh Bodary, David James, Gordon Mosley, John Sczomak, David Wood, and the Cast and Crew Stage Manager.....................................................................................................................Dave Wood Stage Crew.......................................................................................... Dave Wood and Odera Office Light Design.................................................................................................................. Will Daguanno Sound Design.................................................................................Will Daguanno and Jeff Flannery Lighting & Sound Operators.....................Steve Nazarek and the Lights & Sound Committee Costumes......................................................................................... Leah Cooley and Karen Drugasz assisted by Renae Hayward, Mary Calder, Diane Manko-Cliff, Betty Wilson, Jennifer Gorsline, and Xye Appleton Hair & Makeup...................................... Frann Stempek, Julie Ballantyne Brown, and the Cast Membership........................................................................................................................ Tom Varitek Properties.............................................................................................................................Leslie Garber assisted by Brad Garber, Leah Cooley, Diane Manko-Cliff, Karen Drugacz, Renae Hayward, Paul Bruce, and Anita Ganzak Programs.................................................................................Brian Townsend and Carissa Lokken Publicity....................................................Paul Bruce, the Cast, Kori Bielaniec, Jenn Deckert, Brian Townsend, David Culliton, and our Postcard Volunteers Social Media.....................................................................................................................Kori Bielaniec Tickets....................................................Megan Lizbinski, John Sczomak, Tom & Julie Sparrow, Ellen Rindlisbacher, Steve Nazarek, and Bella Valentini 50/50 & Intermission..............................................Members of the Ways & Means Committee Ushers........................................................................... Members of the Players Guild of Dearborn Website.................................................................................................... Phil Booth and Brian Kemp Original Artwork........................................................................................................ Brian Townsend If you helped with this production and your name was inadvertently left off our list, please accept our sincere apology and heartfelt thanks for your part in making A Christmas Carol a success.

WE VALUE YOUR OPINION. If you did not receive a survey link with your ticket purchase, please use the link below: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/6M7N38K or scan this QR code with your smartphone.

THANK YOU! 4

It shall be the purpose of the Guild to promote and foster community interest in good drama and all its forms; through group endeavors in the training of persons interested in theatrical arts—acting, directing, play production, scenery and costume design, and playwriting in apprentice workshops, youth productions, and actual presentation of plays by novices and experienced persons.

2023–2024 OFFICERS, BOARD OF GOVERNORS AND COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mike Moseley Vice President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tom Varitek Secretary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Patti Jones Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Sczomak Casting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Maura Donovan Costumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Karen Drugacz House & Hospitality . . . . . . Renae Hayward Lights & Sound . . . . . . . . . . Will Daguanno Make-up & Hair . . . . . . . . . Frann Stempek Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tom Varitek Production . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tim Carney Programs & Advertising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carissa Lokken Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Leslie Garber PR/Marketing . . . . . . . . . . . David Culliton Script . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marc Walentowicz Stage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dave Wood Tickets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Megan Lizbinski Ways & Means . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Amy Jones Building Committee . . . . . . . . . . Phil Booth Finance Committee . . . . . . . Richard Moore Guildlings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Molly Boudreau and Jenn Deckert IT Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Phil Booth Historian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . David James

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Don’t miss your opportunity to reach such a variety of potential customers.

Let us help you by placing an advertisement or a personal message with The Players Guild of Dearborn.

Contact Carissa Lokken at programs@playersguildofdearborn.org to reserve your space today!

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Last season, you helped us Raise the Roof.

This season, it’s time to

Our club room serves many purposes — from auditions to intermissions, from Board meetings to costume fittings, from opening night afterglows to closing night parties. We want to ensure the comfort of our members and patrons by installing a new air conditioning system in the club room.

Your donation, no matter the size, will help us to reach our goal.

(Seriously, whatever you can give will be totally cool!)

TO D O NATE TO TH E CAMPAI G N, VISIT

www.playersguildofdearborn.org 6

T O

O U R

Opening Night Afterglow Patrons joining us on opening night (Friday, November 10), are welcome to join the cast and crew after the show for an afterglow reception in our club room.

Cell Phone Usage Please refrain from texting or other phone usage during the performance. If you need help silencing your cellular device, please ask one of our ushers.

Restrooms For the convenience of our patrons, restrooms are located on the main floor outside our club room. Go through the front, right double-doors, then down the hallway to the left.

P A T R O N S 50/50 Raffle for the Renovation Fund Don’t forget to buy your ticket (or tickets!) for our famous 50/50 raffle. One lucky winner will take home half the pot! Tickets will be sold in the lobby prior to the performance and in the club room during intermission. Buy one for $1, six for $5, or 25 for $10. The winning ticket will be drawn at the end of intermission.

Photography and Recording Prohibited Please refrain from taking photos of this performance. Any video or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited.

A Non-Smoking Facility The Guild is a non-smoking facility.

Refreshments Refreshments will be offered in our club room during intermission. To enter the club room from the theater, use the right double doors as you face the stage.

Thank you for your continued generosity!

As a non-profit organization that is run by an all-volunteer membership, the Players Guild of Dearborn continually needs to raise funds to support our mission and maintain and improve our theater.

Your donations make a great difference in our ability to continue to bring you the Magic of Live Theatre.

PLEASE SEE OUR DIGITAL DISPLAYS FOR OUR EVER-GROWING LIST OF DONORS, PATRONS, AND BENEFACTORS.

7

Thank You to

THE DEARBORN CABLE COMMUNICATIONS FUND for their generous grant which allowed us to perform needed improvements to our sound equipment.

YOUR AD COULD BE

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HERE!

Or over there … or on the next page … somewhere in this program!

Thousands of people come to the Players Guild of Dearborn every season and read our program. Why not get your business in front of them by advertising with us?

Email programs@playersguildofdearborn.org to get our 2023–2024 ad rate package today!

8

Choristers from Vanguard Voices are joyfully caroling for the audiences of The Players Guild of Dearborn’s production of A Christmas Carol.

Come see the full 75-voice Vanguard Voices this holiday season: December 9, 2023 – “The Dearborn Holiday Choral Festival,” in conjunction with Dearborn Community Chorus and the Dearborn Chamber Orchestra, featuring Steve Errante’s The Boar’s Head Festival at 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. at the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center December 17, 2023 – “A Festival of Lessons & Carols” at 6:00 p.m. at Cherry Hill Presbyterian Church www.vanguardvoices.org

Join Our Email List to Stay Up to Date!

Simply text to to get all the latest and greatest!

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We are grateful for the federal COVID Relief grant administered through a partnership between the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and the Michigan Nonprofit Association.

9

A NOTE FROM THE DIRECTOR Thank you for attending this performance of A Christmas Carol at The Players Guild of Dearborn. Working with this remarkable cast and crew has been an honor and I sincerely hope that you enjoy what you are about to see. This is truly one of the most diverse casts to ever grace our stage and that glorious panorama of humanity has translated into something truly magical. This holiday classic is one that pulls at the heartstrings of us all, and has that wonderful quality of returning us to childhood and its memories of Christmas with family, friends, and both the shared and unique traditions we hold so dear.

If you enjoy what you see at this performance, would you please be so kind as to give us a “shout out” on your social media? Every little bit helps, as ticket sales make it possible for us to continue our goal of bringing quality theatrical productions to our patrons at affordable prices.

As the lights go down, take the hands of the loved ones near you and prepare to embark once again on a journey down that lane of memories in the making.

Paul Bruce, Director

•

“I have endeavored in this Ghostly little book, to raise the Ghost of an Idea, which shall not put my readers out of humor with themselves, with each other, with the season, or with me. May it haunt their houses pleasantly, and no one wish to lay it.

Their faithful Friend and Servant, C.D. December, 1843.”

– Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol

•

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T H E

P L A Y E R S

Paul Bruce....... Director/Choreographer/ Composer/Set Designer Paul is thrilled to be working with such a talented and dedicated cast and crew. He is probably best known for his musicals, Madame X and A Perfectly Normal Boy— both on Spotify. He has directed The Guild’s productions of The Glass Menagerie, Dracula, Arsenic and Old Lace, The Women, Enchanted April, and The Importance of Being Earnest. He was last seen on stage as The Stage Manager in Southgate Community Players’ production of Our Town. He thanks his wonderful husband James for his love, support, and great set painting skills!

Ashley Gatesy............... Assistant Director Ashley is excited to return to the Guild!

You may have seen her on the Guild stage as Fern Patticake in Murder Comes to Uptight Abbey (2021). Previous production credits include assistant directing for Willy Wonka Jr., and choreographing/assistant directing for James and the Giant Peach Jr. Ashley is currently working on her master’s degree in management and leadership, and would like to thank her parents, Kimmy, and Luci for their never-ending support.

Thomas Downey......................... Producer Tom was last seen on stage as Mr. Webb in Southgate Community Players’ production of Our Town, and Col. Mustard in Clue at Inspire Theater, and last seen on the Guild stage in You Can’t Take It With You in 2019.

He was stage manager/assistant director of Paul Bruce’s original production of Little Woman: A Little Musical at Barefoot Productions. Tom is glad to be working on this show with his youngest kid Liz. Love to his oldest one, Sean.

U M A S K E D

Tim Carney................................. Producer Tim last appeared as Mr. Hilltop and in the ensemble of our production of Young Frankenstein. He’s also appeared in La Cage Aux Folles (Renaud), Anything Goes (Rev. Henry T. Dobson); Guys and Dolls (Angie the Ox); Promises, Promises (Mr. Kirkeby); Seussical (Mr. Mayor); Joseph... (Simeon), among many others; and in the ensembles of Sister Act; Sweet Charity; Sugar; White Christmas; Spamalot; Kiss Me, Kate; Drood; and more. By day, Tim takes on the role of elementary school teacher. He thanks his wife, Joyce, and his daughters, Megan and Meredith, for their love and support.

Barnabas Joseph Appleton........................

Gravedigger #1/Caroline’s Husband/ Man With A Violin Though originally hailing from the midwest, Barnabas Joseph Appleton moved to Michigan from Houston, Texas, where his last performance was as Eddie/Dr. Scott in Theatre 1960’s production of The Rocky Horror Show. Barnabas is happy a timeless classic like A Christmas Carol marks his first involvement with theatre in Michigan, and he wishes everyone a Merry Thanksgiving as they enjoy the show.

Jake Appleton............... Scrooge As A Boy/ Caroline’s Child #1 Jake originally came from London in the UK and easily managed to fit in with theatre here in Michigan. He has been doing theatre since birth and was so excited to participate in theatre here, scoring his first role in America as Plankton in The Spongebob Musical at Players Guild of Dearborn before going back again to get his role of Scrooge as a Boy in A Christmas Carol. He is so excited to be a part of the play and hopes everybody enjoys the show. continued on page 12 11

T H E

P L A Y E R S

Julie Ballantyne Brown.........Mrs. Cratchit Julie is excited to be part of this wonderful cast and crew! She was last seen at the Guild in Becky’s New Car as Becky this past March. She has acted in many other Guild productions over the years, including Encore, Woman #3 in Is This Seat Taken?, The Glass Menagerie as Amanda Wingfield, Sarah McKay in Laughing Stock, and Penny Sycamore in You Can’t Take It With You. Much love to her husband, Marty, and to the kiddos: Zach, Anthony, Bubby, and Nat. Also snuggles and treats to the cats.

She is an aspiring writer who will live in London someday.

Alexis Bartrum............................Caroline/ Fred’s Wife Julia Alexis is thrilled to be back on the Guild stage after five years! She was previously seen in Sweet Charity, Cheaper by the Dozen, and White Christmas with the Guild. She has also served as producer for the Guild’s productions of You Can’t Take It With You and Guys & Dolls. Most recently she was seen as Mrs. Webb in Southgate Community Players production of Our Town, where she also serves as Membership Chair on the board of directors. Alexis is thrilled to be working with such a talented cast and crew and hopes you enjoy the show!

Atam Jacob Bedikian............. The Ghost of Christmas Past/Old Joe Atam has been on stage since a very young age. Tonight, he will be playing the part of Ghost of Christmas Past and Old Joe. He has performed in many shows with professional and non professional theaters.

He is so excited for you to see tonight’s show! Enjoy!

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U M A S K E D

Josh Beurer.........................Gentleman #2/ Mr. Fezziwig/Businessman #2 The holidays are a time for family, and it has been such a special experience for Josh to be able to perform in this perennial Christmas classic with his theater family here at the Guild. Other favorite roles at the Guild include: Young Frankenstein (Victor/ Ensemble), La Cage Aux Folles (Hanna), Sister Act (TJ), Anything Goes (Moonface), and You Can’t Take It With You (Donald).

As you can see, Josh has a penchant for ridiculous accents, and he hopes you’ve enjoyed these three new British ones he’s dropped in from Dickensian London.

Happy Holidays!

Savior Borg................Tiny Tim/Ignorance Savior is a second grader. He previously was cast as Lars in our recent production of Madagascar Jr. Other performances include Duvall Elementary School’s talent shows as a kindergartner and first grader dancing to “Thriller” and “We Go Together” from Grease alongside his fouryear-old sister Serafina. Outside of the theater, Savior’s hobbies include baseball, gymnastics, music and dance but he has tried his hand at hockey, figure skating, flag football and swimming. He is grateful for the opportunity to perform for and with so many other talented individuals and thankful for all who came to share in this moment with him. Savior also plays on his school’s chess team and enjoys traveling with his family.

Kaitlyn Cross.......Fezziwig’s Daughter #2/ Miranda Cratchit/Old Joe’s Child #1 Kaitlyn (she/her) is so excited to be back at the Guild! A TA by day, Kaitlyn has worked with multiple different theaters across Michigan and is currently on the board with Horizon Performing Arts.

T H E

P L A Y E R S

Favorite roles include Essie (You Can’t Take It With You), Florinda (Into the Woods), Mrs. Phelps (Matilda), and a Wickersham (Seussical). Enjoy the show!

Joe Donovan................. Ebeneezer Scrooge Joe met his wife Kim in the Guild’s 1981 production of Gypsy, and they have remained active members for the last 42 years. Joe’s most recent appearance was in the ensemble of Encore in 2022. Some of his notable Guild roles include: King Arthur in Spamalot, Ben Franklin in 1776, Herbie in Gypsy, Harold Hill in The Music Man, Cinderella’s Prince/Wolf in Into the Woods, Philip Markham in Move Over Mrs. Markham, and Billy Flynn in Chicago.

But Joe’s favorite role is grandfather of six, to: Joey, Jamie, Jack, Patrick, Connor, and Sutton.

Liz Downey..........Peter Cratchit/Valentine Liz is making their third appearance on the Guild stage, having been in the Guildlings productions of Madagascar Jr. (Melman) and The SpongeBob Musical (an Electric Skate). They also appeared in Our Town with Southgate Community Players. Liz was inspired to go on stage by their father, who is also working on this show. They send all of their love to their family and thanks to their teachers and friends.

Emmett Gorsline..... Boy Singing A Carol/ Old Joe’s Child #2 Emmett is so very excited to be in A Christmas Carol, especially since it is his favorite Christmas story! Emmett is eight years old and this is his fifth show. He was previously seen in Two For the Show and Seussical Kids with DAG, as Olaf in Frozen Kids with Livonia Community Theater, and as the Baker in Beauty and the Beast, Jr. with Ovation Performing Arts. When

U M A S K E D

Emmett isn’t acting he loves reading, playing video games and board games, dancing, swimming, and playing drums.

Malcolm Gorsline ......................Ragamuffin Boy/Orson Malcolm is 11 years old and thrilled to be back on the Players Guild stage! He was previously the Crocodile in Peter Pan, Jr. and Ed the Hyena in The Lion King, Jr. for the Guildlings. Malcolm has also appeared in multiple shows with DAG including Frozen, Jr. and as the Cat in Seussical Kids.

Most recently Malcolm was Maurice in Beauty and the Beast, Jr. with Ovation Performing Arts. In addition to theater Malcolm also loves reading, swimming, playing guitar, and playing video and board games.

Degrim Gretz.... Scrooge As A Young Man/ Topper/Dead Body Deg is very honored to be playing so many different roles, including Young Scrooge, in our production of A Christmas Carol. This will be his second show to date, his first playing Angel in an independent production of Rent. He’s hoping to continue to tackle more stories and touch more hearts and represent his community to the best of his ability. He also would like to thank Paul Bruce for his dedication and heart when it comes to this show, with strong patience and knowledge, Deg couldn’t ask for a more strong spirit to work with.

Dylan Hart........... Fred/Schoolboy’s Father Dylan is very excited to be making his third appearance on the Guild stage after previously appearing as Igor in Young Frankenstein. He is very excited to be playing Fred in this classic show. His previous roles include Rapunzel’s Prince in continued on page 14 13

Into the Woods, Franz in Rock of Ages and Rudolpho in Matilda. He also appeared in Anything Goes, Legally Blonde, Something Rotten and more. He would like to thank his family and friends for their support and hopes you enjoy the show.

Garrett Hermen................ Gravedigger #2/ The Ghost of Jacob Marley/Businessman #1 Garrett Hermen is thrilled to be back on stage at The Players Guild since his last show, Guys and Dolls. He’s even more thrilled to cross a dream role off his list so quickly. When not on stage, Garrett can be found rolling dice and slaying dragons.

He thanks his father and mother for running taxi service to get him to and from rehearsals and hopes you enjoy the show.

Aric Liljegren.........................Bob Cratchit Aric has enjoyed sharing a stage with this talented cast—and not just any stage, but this one where he debuted as an actor in 1979 and as a director in 1993. Although he doesn’t have much time to act these days, you may have caught him playing Renfield in our production of Dracula (2012), or Richard in The Lion in Winter (2017). Aric is a sculptor, director, writer, educator, and mythologist. He thanks his wife ( Julia) and daughter (Maya) for their support (and the occasional shove out the door) as he indulges his love of theatre.

Diane Manko-Cliff....Narrator/Laundress It’s been quite a while since Diane has been on the stage at the Guild, but she’s been busy behind the scenes as part of the costume committee for Sister Act, La Cage Aux Folles, and Young Frankenstein, as well as props for Becky’s New Car and other shows.

She is thrilled to be part of this amazing cast in the stage production of one of her favorite books by Dickens (which she reads every December whether she needs to or not). On stage, Diane has appeared as Mrs. 14

Mayor in Seussical, the Musical; a Laker Girl in Spamalot; Flo in The Mystery of Edwin Drood; and in the companies of White Christmas and many other Guild shows.

Aliahna Mesahn............ Belle/The Ghost of Christmas Yet To Be Aliahna is so excited to play Belle and The Ghost of Christmas Yet To Be in her second production with the Players Guild.

She previously was in our production of Becky’s New Car, and prior to that she did two productions with Ann Arbor Civic Theater: Antigone and Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike.

Oscar Nieman...................... Townsperson/ Schoolboy/Want OH MY GAWD! Oscar is so excited to finally make his onstage debut in A Christmas Carol. He comes from a family of thespians and has grown up with a love of theatre. He is excited to follow in the footsteps of his dad and sister. Oscar would like to thank his director, Paul, for taking a chance on him, as well as his family for believing in him and attending all of his homemade productions over the years.

Enjoy the show!

Samantha Odom .....................Fezziwig’s Daughter #3/ Belinda Cratchit/Caroline’s Child #2 This is Samantha’s first show at the Players Guild of Dearborn! She has been in a few versions of A Christmas Carol in the past with Forever After Productions and Barefoot Productions. (She still likes to eat glue, sorry Junie B!) Some of her favorite shows she has been in were Gianni Schicchi (a play by Brian Townsend) and Moon Over Buffalo. She is in a band called Ship to Nowhere where she sings and plays the bass and ukulele. Major shout out to her amazing husband Tyler! <3

Branden Omoregie ............... Gentleman #1/The Ghost of Christmas Present/Businessman #3 This is Branden’s second show at the Players Guild. He has played The Ghost of Christmas Present before in the story’s musical adaptation (which Paul Bruce also directed!). He recently played Benny in Rent, Curtis in Sister Act, and Lendall in Almost, Maine. He has a strong tenor voice, has been singing since the age of eight, and has been in stage productions for over a decade. Branden’s dream role is to play Coalhouse in Ragtime. Branden is very active at the Guild, being in the Script Committee and Publicity Committee. He hopes you enjoy the show!

Mo Thomas.........................Mrs. Fezziwig/ Undertaker’s Woman Mo is happy to be celebrating the holiday season on the Guild stage bringing classic characters to life. She began 2023 here in our hilarious production of Sister Act and soon after in the fabulous La Cage Aux Folles. Mo has been acting throughout Michigan performing in shows such as Anything Goes, Around the World in 80 Days and as Mrs. Soames in the Southgate production of Our Town. She hopes you enjoy every moment of humor and heart A Christmas Carol brings to audiences. And to the wonderful cast, crew and production team she wishes a “Merry Christmas!” and she’ll see you at the ball.

Bekah Stankiewicz..............Fan/Fezziwig’s Daughter #1/Martha Cratchit Bekah is excited to be making her Guild debut! After taking a break from the stage, she is glad to be back in her Theater Kid Era. Although Bekah is a firm believer in not celebrating Christmas until December 1st, she hopes that everyone leaves the show with a bit of holiday spirit. Recent credits include The SpongeBob Musical and Seussical with Horizon Performing Arts.

Sam Volpe.........Schoolboy’s Mother/Julia’s Sister Lucy/Charwoman This is Sam’s first straight play at the Guild and she could not have asked for a better team to work with! Most recently you might have seen her in the Guild’s production of Young Frankenstein or the 2022 season’s Anything Goes. She has also been seen around metro Detroit in shows like Oklahoma!, Ragtime, Cabaret, and more. A huge thank you to the creative team for making this such a wonderful experience!

There’s No Business Like Show Business Consider becoming a member of The Players Guild of Dearborn!

Contact our membership governor at membership@ playersguildofdearborn.org for more information.

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NOW IS THE PERFECT TIME TO TAKE YOUR SEAT...

As you may know, the Players Guild of Dearborn’s auditorium and clubroom were substantially renovated in 2013. Our auditorium received a new floor and comfortable new seats, and the clubroom floor was leveled and tiled.

The improved seating, re-plastering, and re-hanging of lighting bars as well as the leveling and re-flooring of our clubroom were desperately needed, and have been a resounding success. But the cost of doing all this renovation was substantial.

The Players Guild is an all-volunteer community theater and we need the help of our community to keep it strong and providing high-quality arts entertainment. One way you can help is to sponsor a seat in our auditorium.

SPONSOR A SEAT: You can sponsor a seat for $300.

In doing so, we will imprint your name (or whatever name you want) for posterity on a plaque that will be placed on an available seat. Anyone purchasing a seat in this season will get a seat plaque and a listing in our program/digital displays.

SUPPORT THE CAMPAIGN: We also welcome any donations! Any contribution you’d like to make, from $10 up, will help our organization and you will be listed in the program throughout the season.

To sponsor a seat or to support the campaign, please contact Amy Jones at waysandmeans@playersguildofdearborn.org.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

WWW.PLAYERSGUILDOFDEARBORN.ORG 16

JOIN US FOR OUR NEXT PRODUCTION

by Noël Coward PRESENTED BY ARRANGEMENT WITH CONCORD THEATRICALS ON BEHALF OF SAMUEL FRENCH, INC. DIRECTED BY: Kristen Campbell Lynch AUDITIONS: November 13 and 14, 2023 ON STAGE: January 12–14, 19–21, and 26–28, 2024

They say “true love never dies” and for one fussy, cantankerous novelist that is certainly true! Charles Condomine is a temperamental writer who is haunted (literally) by the spirit of his first wife, the vivacious Elvira, after she is mistakenly summoned during a seance.

Charles suddenly finds himself in the middle of a most otherworldly love triangle, between Elvira and his second wife Ruth, as both women vie for his affections!

FOR M O R E AUD I TI O N I NF O R MAT I O N A ND FORM S , VISIT

www.playersguildofdearborn.org

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Players Guild of Dearborn is proud to support SUPPORT YOUR The our fellow actors, musicians, dancers, directors, and LOCAL THEATRES! technicians as they present their 2023–2024 seasons.

WELCOME TO SEASON 68 THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL YOUTH THEATRE JULY 14 — JULY 23, 2023

THE GREAT AMERICAN TRAILER PARK MUSICAL MAIN STAGE MUSICAL NOVEMBER 3 — NOVEMBER 19, 2023

ROMEO & JULIET MAIN STAGE DRAMA FEBRUARY 9 — FEBRUARY 25, 2024

MONTY PYTHON’S SPAMALOT MAIN STAGE MUSICAL SEPTEMBER 8 — OCTOBER 1, 2023

DISNEY’S DESCENDANTS: THE MUSICAL YOUTH THEATRE DECEMBER 14 — DECEMBER 17, 2023

CHILDREN OF EDEN MAIN STAGE MUSICAL MARCH 29 — APRIL 21, 2024

THE SPITFIRE GRILL 2ND STAGE MUSICAL OCTOBER 13 — OCTOBER 22, 2023

GIRLS’ WEEKEND 2ND STAGE COMEDY JANUARY 12 — JANUARY 21, 2024

SILENT SKY 2ND STAGE DRAMA MAY 3 — MAY 12, 2024

FO R T IC K E T S & MORE , VISIT STAG ECRA FT E RS .ORG 18

SUNSET BOULEVARD MAIN STAGE MUSICAL MAY 31 — JUNE 23, 2024

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Proud to support The Players Guild of Dearborn

Funeral Home & Cremation Services Celebrating 150 years of excellent service

Burial, Cremation, Memorial and Reception Services

Dearborn Location 313-561-1500

Taylor Location 313-291-0900

www.howepeterson.com

Next On Stage

by Noël Coward

Presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc.

AUDITIONS:

November 13 and 14, 2023 ON STAGE:

January 12–14, 19–21, and 26–28, 2024

They say “true love never dies” and for one fussy, cantankerous novelist that is certainly true!

Charles Condomine is a temperamental writer, who is haunted (literally) by the spirit of his first wife, the vivacious Elvira, after she is mistakenly summoned during a seance. Charles suddenly finds himself in the middle of a most otherworldly love triangle, between Elvira and his second wife Ruth, as both women vie for his affections!

AUDITIONS:

January 15 and 16, 2024 ON STAGE:

March 8–10, 15–17, and 22–24, 2024 presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc.

AUDITIONS:

March 11 and 12, 2024 ON STAGE:

May 3–5, 10–12, and 17–19, 2024 presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI)

313.561.TKTS | www.playersguildofdearborn.org 21 73 0 MAD I SO N | D E A R B O R N, M I 4 8124