Athena

THE REPERTORY THEATRE OF ST. LOUIS

BY GRACIE GARDNER directed by nancy bell

JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 9

LORETTO-HILTON CENTER | THE EMERSON STUDIO THEATRE STEVE WOOLF STUDIO SERIES SPONSOR

PETER AND SUSAN TUTEUR

2024–2025 SEASON 03 04 06 07 08 14 26 27

WELCOME PRODUCTION DRAMATURGY DIRECTOR’S NOTE BIOGRAPHIES ABOUT THE REP SUPPORT THE REP NEXT AT THE REP

JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 9

THE REPERTORY THEATRE OF ST. LOUIS

WWW.REPSTL.ORG

130 Edgar Road, St. Louis, MO 63119

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL @REPSTL

ADMINISTRATION 314-968-7340

BOX OFFICE 314-968-4925

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis is a fully professional theatrical operation belonging to the League of Resident Theatres (LORT), the Non-Profit Theatre Collation, Greater St. Louis Inc., and is a constituent member of Theatre Communications Group, Inc., the national service organization for the not-for-profit professional theatre. It operates independently of, but under a mutually beneficial agreement with, Webster University. The Rep operates under an agreement between the League of Resident Theatres and Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. The Rep hires directors and choreographers who are members of the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers and stagehands who are members of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees. Scenic artists employed by The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis are members of United Scenic Artists, Local 829, AFL-CIO. The scenic, costume, lighting and sound designers in LORT Theatres are represented by United Scenic Artists Local USA-829, IATSE. Financial assistance for this theatre has been provided in part by the St. Louis Regional Arts Commission; and the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.

This project is supported in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency, which believes that a great nation deserves great art.

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WELCOME Welcome back to The Steve Woolf Studio Series here at The Rep. As we strive to produce adventurous theatre for adventurous theatregoers, Athena will take you to the most daunting place of all–high school. We ask you to reminisce on the joys, hopes, and fears of adolescence.

At the heart of Athena lies a powerful question: How can society create an environment where young women can excel in their pursuits while also embracing the joys of friendship, love, and community? This story centers on two young athletes who embody the diligence and intensity of their sport. It also showcases not just their skills on the piste, but also the complexity resonating in their lives off it. Sharing a compelling exploration of the lives of young female athletes is one thing–sharing the story of them fighting for a single spot at the top is another. With the trajectory of these young women’s lives resting on a single bout, where is the room for connection?

Inspired by the goddess of strategic warfare, Gracie Gardner delves into the multifaceted nature of coming of age physically and emotionally while training toward tactical brilliance, physical prowess, and mutual respect.

Stereotypically, these qualities of wisdom and strength when associated with young people in popular narratives garner freedom and celebrity, but they don’t equalize with the inquiry–what is the cost of power? Athena, often portrayed as a solitary figure in mythology, faced her own struggle in forming friendships, reminding us that it is often “lonely at the top.” We may not be facing acne, homework, and college applications, but how do each of us navigate the demands of respect and opportunity while striving to be seen and cherished by one another for simply who we are underneath it all?

As you engage with Athena, I hope you will reflect on the resilience and strength of these young women embarking on this opportunity. This play challenges us to honor their journeys and to recognize the importance of creating spaces where they can thrive both in their ambitions and their relationships.

Kate Bergstrom augustin family artistic director

Athena | 3

BIOGRAPHIES PRODUCTION THE REPERTORY THEATRE OF ST. LOUIS Augustin Family Artistic Director Kate Bergstrom

managing director Danny Williams

presents

BY GRACIE GARDNER DIRECTED BY NANCY BELL

CAST Mary Wallace Jamie Athena

Jailyn Genyse* Carmen Cecilia Retzer Isa Venere

CREATIVES Scenic Designer Costume Designer Lighting Designer sound designer Fight Director Casting Director Dramaturg Fencing Consultant production stage Manager

Seth Howard Renee Garcia** Jayson M. Lawshee Jimmy Bernatowicz Paul Steger Becks Redman Simone Hoagland Annamaria Lu Carolyn Ivy Carter*

*Member of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States **USA-829 Member

“Athena” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com Athena was commisioned by and received its world premier with The Harth (Emma Miller and Julia Greer, Co-Artistic Directors) at JACK on February 16, 2018. The performance was directed by Emma Miller, with sets by Emmie Finckel, costumes by Dara Affholter, lighting by Victoria Bain, sound design by Z Worthington, property design by Jess Cummings, and fight choreography by Ryan Bourque. The stage manager was Hanako Rodriguez.

The cast was as follows: MARY WALLACE... Abby Awe ATHENA... Julia Greer JAMIE...Eva Ravenal

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PRODUCTION CREW Production Assistant Assistant Costume designer Wardrobe Supervisor Studio Sound Technician STUDIO ELECTRICIAN

Caroline John Ariana Lapentti Elena Jaquez Sean Wilhite Casey Morris III

PLACE Here TIME Present

STEVE WOOLF STUDIO SERIES SPONSOR PETER & SUSAN TUTEUR

MAJOR PRODUCTION SPONSORS GWEN & PAUL MIDDEKE VEN & CYNTHIA HOUTS

STAGE COMBAT SPONSOR

GINA & LEE HOAGLAND

2024–2025 SEASON DEDICATION ANN P. AUGUSTIN

THE VIDEOTAPING OR MAKING OF ELECTRONIC OR OTHER AUDIO AND/OR VISUAL RECORDINGS OF THIS PRODUCTION AND DISTRIBUTING RECORDINGS OR STREAMS IN ANY MEDIUM, INCLUDING THE INTERNET, IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED, A VIOLATION OF THE AUTHOR(S)’S RIGHTS AND ACTIONABLE UNDER UNITED STATES COPYRIGHT LAW. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT:https://concordtheatricals.com/resources/protecting-artists

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BIOGRAPHIES DRAMATURGY

FENCING: A COMPETITIVE SPORT

BY SIMONE HOAGLAND Dramaturg for Athena

EDITED BY BRIAN COATS The Rep’s Learning Programs Manager

The Rep also extends our gratitude to our partners at Fence St. Louis for making the world of fencing come to life in Athena.

While a specific tournament is never named in the play, it’s a safe assumption to say that Athena and Mary Wallace are training for Fencing Summer Nationals. Located in a different U.S. city each year from late June to mid-July, the “July Challenge” is a tournament that American fencers train for all year round.

At Summer Nationals, Athena and Mary Wallace would compete in the Juniors event, where they have the opportunity to earn national points by finishing in a certain spot. National points contribute to your national rank, and the top-ranked fencers have the opportunity to go to World events.

They are also considered for the National Team and a chance to compete at the Olympics.

All of this gives them better access to university varsity teams. As the sport of fencing becomes more competitive, certain university varsity teams will not even consider an applicant unless they have acquired national points.

This standard generates an urgency within fencers who crave success, which drives much of the dramatic and competitive action that you see in Gracie Gardner’s Athena.

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DIRECTOR’S NOTE

If you are fortunate, you make a friend when you are young with whom you have a shared destiny. You and only you have something to teach them.

They and only they have something to teach you. You will be drawn to them, and it will be amazing. And it will be hard, too. Sometimes it can’t last very long, but you will carry them with you forever. This is a play about slashing, stabbing, attacking, winning at all costs and screaming in triumph. And it’s also about this fragile kind of first love for the peer who will change who you are forever.

To grow up, to reach their full potential and thrive, young women, in particular, must reckon with the question, “Can I be powerful and still be loved?” As I confessed to the team here when my work on this play first began, it’s still a question I grapple with myself from time to time. The extraordinary teenagers in this play are taking their first steps toward answering this question. Lucky for them, they don’t have to do it alone.

Whatever our age, may we all find a Mary Wallace or an Athena—someone who will not accept anything less than our very best, but will still show up to practice with us tomorrow no matter what happens.

En garde!

Nancy Bell, Director of Athena

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BIOGRAPHIES CAST Jailyn Genyse (Mary Wallace) At The Rep: Stellaluna as “Stellaluna/ Flap,” Puss in Boots as “Princess/Ogre Servant,” It’s A Wonderful Life as “Stage Manager/Belinda Plum, ”A Christmas Carol as “Ghost Dancer/Fred’s Sister-in-Law.” Local Theatre: An Unlikely Hero as “Jordan” (Metro Theatre Company), The Color Purple as “Shug Avery” (COCA), Six: Teen Edition (COCA, Assistant Director/ Assistant Choreographer), The Game’s Afoot as “Ensemble Member” (St. Louis Shakespeare Festival). Education: BFA in Acting from the Sargent Conservatory of Theatre Arts. Additional Credits: Local teaching artist with COCA and STAGES who enjoys guiding the future artist in the community. Jailyn would like to thank her family and support system for always pushing her to reach new heights and soar! IG: @jailyngenyse Carmen Cecilia Retzer (Jamie/Fight Captain) is excited to return to The Rep this season. At The Rep: Murder on the Orient Express.

Local Theatre: Much Ado About Nothing as “Hero” (St. Louis Shakespeare Festival), Gloria: A Life (The New Jewish Theatre).

Regional Theatre: What the Constitution Means to Me (Milwaukee Rep), Little Women (Milwaukee Rep), A Christmas Carol (Milwaukee Rep).

Education: BFA in Acting from The Sargent Conservatory of Theatre Arts at Webster University. Carmen would like to thank her parents, brother, and abuelita for their constant love and support! Social: @carmenretzer Website: www.carmenretzer.com Isa Venere (Athena) At The Rep: August: Osage County Local Theatre: Our Town as “Stage Manager”(Webster Conservatory).

Education: Isa is pursuing her BFA in Acting from Webster Conservatory. Isa would like to thank Mom, Emma, and Dom for their support. IG: @isa.venere CREATIVES Nancy Bell (Director) Directing: As You Like It (St. Louis Shakespeare Festival), The New Jewish Theatre, Union Avenue Opera. Acting: At The Rep: The Roommate, The Wolves, Molly’s Hammer, Soups, Stews, and Casseroles: 1976, Clybourne Park, Macbeth, Three Musketeers. Local Theatre: The New Jewish Theatre, Upstream Theatre, St. Louis Shakespeare Festival. Regional Theatre: South Coast Repertory, McCarter Theatre Center, Berkeley Repertory Theatre, Geffen Playhouse, 8 | The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis

The Old Globe. New York: Manhattan Theatre Club, New York Theatre Workshop, Ensemble Studio Theatre, Tribeca Lab. Film/TV: Star Trek Voyager, Guiding Light, The Bold and the Beautiful, NewsRadio, Chicago Hope.

Education: BFA-Acting, MFA-Acting and Directing. Playwriting: PlaywrightIn-Residence at St. Louis Shakespeare Festival, serving as founding artist on Shakespeare in the Sheets program and Confluence New Play Festival, California Repertory, St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. Other: Professor of Theatre, St. Louis University. Website: www.nancyellenbell.com Seth Howard (Scenic Designer) is new to The Rep. Local Theatre: The Color Purple (COCA, Scenic Designer). Regional Theatre: Come From Away (Theatre Aspen, Scenic Designer), Jersey Boys (Theatre Aspen, Scenic Designer), Purlie Victorious (Charleston Stage, Scenic Designer), Grease (Bucks County Playhouse, Scenic Designer), Topdog/Underdog (Palm Beach Dramaworks, Scenic Designer). Education: B.F.A. in Stage Design, Props, and Scenic Art from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM).

Social: @sethhowarddesigns Website: www.sethhowarddesigns.com Renee Garcia (Costume Designer) is new to The Rep. Local Theatre: Eddie & Vinnie (Metro Theatre Company, Costume Designer), Grand Horizons (Moonstone Theatre Company, Costume Designer). Regional Theatre: Cabaret (Lake Dillion Theatre Company), Romeo & Juliet and Two Gentleman of Verona (Riverside Theatre Shakespeare Festival), Green Whales (Unicorn Theatre), The Macbeth Project (Coterie Theatre). Film/TV: Burning Man (Independent film, Artistic Director). Education: MFA Technical Theatre, University of Missouri-Kansas City; BA Theatre, Florida State University.

Additional Credits: International design showcases include the 2015 Prague Quadrennial (USITT-USA National Exhibit), 2022 Vestuario a Escena MX AC’s exhibit (National Center for the Arts, Mexico City), 2024 World Costume in Action exhibit (National Theatre Bucharest). Awards: 2014 USITT Ezekiel Board Choice Winner, 2014 USITT Ezekiel Award for Outstanding Achievement.

Ms. Garcia is an Assistant Professor of Theatre, specializing in Costume Design, at the Sargent Conservatory of Theatre Arts at Webster University.

Social: @reneegarciadesigns Jayson M. Lawshee (Lighting Designer) is a St. Louis-based Production Director & Designer and the Director of Production at The Rep. At The Rep: The Roommate (Lighting Designer), Pride & Prejudice (Assistant Lighting Designer), Admissions (Assistant Lighting Designer), Angels in America Part 1 (Assistant Lighting Designer). Local Theatre: Red (The New Jewish Theatre), The Color Athena | 9

BIOGRAPHIES Purple (COCA), An Unlikely Hero (Metro Theatre Company). Regional Theatre: A Celebration of New Works (BalletMet), Fences (Lyric Repertory Company), Escape to Margaritaville (Arrow Rock Lyceum Theater). Education: The Sargent Conservatory of Theater Arts at Webster University, BFA Lighting Design.

IG: @the_lawshee Jimmy Bernatowicz (Sound Designer) is excited to be working on his first show with The Rep! Regional Theatre: 1877 (Bread & Roses Missouri, Sound Designer), Action! (Action Art Collaborative, Sound Designer), As You Like It (St. Louis Shakespeare Festival, Sound Designer), The Two Character Play (Midnight Company, Sound Designer). Education: Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and English from Saint Louis University. Additional Credits: Jimmy currently works as the Production Manager at Metro Theater Company and has worked on over 15 productions with them. He would like to thank his family and friends for their constant support.

Paul Steger (Fight Director) At The Rep: Dial ‘M’ for Murder. Local Theatre: The Black Rep (Resident Fight Director). Regional Theatre: Nebraska Repertory Theatre, Theatre Southeast, Utah Musical Theatre (Resident Fight Director).

National Theatre: Bug (Chicago; London, Assistant Fight Director). Broadway Tour: Prymate (dir. Ed Sherin starring Andre DeShields). Film/TV: Vikings, Power Rangers, Family Law, The Practice, The Flintstones - Viva Rock Vegas.

Membership: AEA, SAG, BASSC, FDC, NSFS, SAFD. Becks Redman (Casting Director) At The Rep: It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, Moby Dick, August: Osage County, Dial ‘M’ For Murder and The Roommate (Casting Director), Gruesome Playground Injuries (Director), and served as the Associate Artistic Director from 2022–2024. Regional Theatre: Currently, Becks is a producer at The Old Globe in San Diego.

Becks worked at The Rep for five seasons from 2019–2024. Prior to that, she served on the Producing and Casting teams at Actors Theatre of Louisville and Baltimore Center Stage.

Simone Hoagland (Dramaturg) is new to the The Rep! Local Theatre: The Skin of Our Teeth, She Kills Monsters, Almost, Maine; Front, Urinetown, Chicago. Education: John Burroughs High School, Bryn Mawr College– candidate for bachelor’s degree in English and Creative Writing and Captain of the Fencing Team. Simone has been on and off stage throughout high school productions in both theatre and dance.

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Annamaria Lu (Fencing Consultant) is the Head Fencing Coach and Co-Owner of Fence St. Louis. She is excited to be working at The Rep for the first time!

Prior to moving to St. Louis, she fenced and coached throughout the U.S. Awards: As a coach, her fencers have competed at the local, regional, and national levels. Membership: Annamaria is involved in USA Fencing not only as a fencing coach but has refereed Division 1 épée and saber tournaments.

She is a highly involved member of the USA Fencing Referees Commission Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Taskforce.

Ariana Lapentti (Assistant Costume Designer) is new to The Rep this season.

She is a costume designer and photoshoot stylist from Guayaquil, Ecuador.

Credits: Most recently Ariana designed 3 touring productions for The Black Rep and assisted costume designer Dottie Marshall Englis in the St. Louis Shakespeare Festival’s production of As You Like It. Education: She graduates in May 2025 with her BFA in Costume Design from Webster University’s Sargent Conservatory of Theatre Arts. In 2022 she earned an Associate of Arts in Fine Arts degree at Broward College. She is also the president of Webster’s Latin American and Hispanic Student Organization (LAHSO).

Carolyn Ivy Carter (Production Stage Manager) At The Rep: The Gradient (Assistant Stage Manager), Imaginary Theatre Company for 3 seasons (Stage Manager). Local Theatre: Production Manager at COCA, Love’s Language (Music as the Message, Production Manager), New Works Collective (Opera Theatre of St. Louis, Stage Manager), Shakespeare in the Streets: The Game’s Afoot, In The Ville, and Love at the River’s Edge (St. Louis Shakespeare Festival, Stage Manager). Education: BFA in Stage Management from The Sargent Conservatory of Theatre Arts at Webster University. Grateful to be Mom to Joy-Anna and Piper.

Caroline Merritt John (Production Assistant) At The Rep: The Roommate, The 39 Steps (Production Assistant). Local Theatre: The Color Purple (COCA, Stage Manager), Pippin (COCA, Assistant Stage Manager), Matilda (COCA, Assistant Stage Manager), Finding Nemo (Variety Children’s Theater, Stage Manager), Disney’s Mary Poppins (Variety Children’s Theater, Assistant Stage Manager). Regional Theatre: Merry Wives of Windsor (Great Lakes Theatre, Production Assistant), Always... Patsy Cline (Great Lakes Theatre, Production Assistant), Fall Festival (Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Stage Manager), The Game’s Afoot (St. Louis Shakespeare Festival, Assistant Stage Manager).

Education: BFA in Stage Management from Sargent Conservatory of Theatre Arts at Webster University. IG: @_carolinejohn Athena | 11

LEADERSHIP Kate Bergstrom (Augustin Family Artistic Director) is a seasoned director, culture shaper, and creator, bringing to this position her extensive experience in theatre, opera, and film. Dedicated to enhancing community connectivity, she infuses her dynamic energy and fosters engagement through exceptional storytelling that is both entertaining and impactful.

Kate’s most recent productions at The Rep wowed audiences with the critically acclaimed It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play in December 2023 and The 39 Steps in 2022.

In addition to her time at The Rep, Kate has over ten years of experience directing everything from reimagined classics to new works across the country at Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Trinity Repertory Company, Marin Theatre Company, Ars Nova, Rattlestick Theater, Playwrights Center, Cleveland Play House, Curious Theatre Company, Los Angeles Theatre Center, Opera San Diego, Music Academy of the West, Redcat, LACMA, and more. Her recent world premieres include You Can’t Hide From Yourself (Playwrights Horizons Soundstage), Oh To Be Pure Again (Actor’s Express), and Letters That You Will Not Get (American Opera Projects).

As Festival Director, Kate led, produced, and programmed the Big Eddy Film Festival, a cinematic celebration of counter-current narratives that crosses the intersection of art, film, and rural imagination in Upstate New York. This grew from her tenure as Founder and Producing Artistic Director of On The Verge, a company staging and producing world premieres and workshops that sparked conversation, community, and celebration at the crossroads of Santa Barbara and beyond.

Most recently Kate has worked with dozens of large corporate clients such as Google, Genetech, and Cisco co-leading multi-day programs and long-term adviserships in executive communication and leadership as a performance coach at Stand & Deliver. Kate holds an MFA in directing from Brown University and a BA in Directing and Acting from UCLA. She lives in Lafayette Square with her husband, Mike, her newly St. Louis-born son, Otto, and the family pup, Crispy.

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Danny Williams (Managing Director) An experienced arts administrator, Danny Williams was named The Rep’s Managing Director in January 2022. Danny brings to this position expertise in nonprofit accounting, senior management, and organizational development. Prior to joining The Rep, Danny worked at The Public Theater in New York for 15 years, where he served in various roles, including Senior Director, Finance and Administration. In this position Danny managed the daily and strategic financial operations of the $50 million nonprofit organization, successfully launched an organization-wide intranet, partnered with the development team to achieve fundraising goals, and collaborated on long-term financial planning and analysis. Noteworthy productions Danny worked on at The Public include Broadway: Fun Home, Hamilton; Off-Broadway: Here Lies Love, Twelfth Night, White Noise.

Danny also serves on the National Planning Committee for The Professional Non-Profit Theatre Coalition, working to promote lasting governmental partnership to support arts education and workforce development and infrastructure needs in theatres across the country, and INTAR Theater, committed to the development and continuation of the Latine voice in American theater. He holds degrees in marketing and theater from Fairfield University.

Cast, The Thanksgiving Play Photography by Phillip Hamer

ABOUT THE REP

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis is the region’s premier theatre for compelling, award-winning theatrical experiences that entertain, engage, and illuminate audiences’ shared humanity. As a dedicated partner with arts organizations in St. Louis and across the country, The Rep aims to expand audiences’ appreciation and understanding of the world through theatre.

MAINSTAGE The work presented in the Mainstage series is eclectic, ranging from modern to classics to musicals, and benefits from the large space afforded by the Browning Theatre. Performances are given at the Virginia Jackson Browning Theatre at the Loretto-Hilton Center.

STEVE WOOLF STUDIO SERIES The Steve Woolf Studio Series offers a selection of contemporary plays and new works that challenge audiences and provoke meaningful dialogue. These productions are staged in an intimate, flexible space, allowing for a closer connection between the performers and the audience. The series features diverse voices and stories that explore a wide range of themes and perspectives, providing a platform for emerging playwrights and innovative theatre makers.

IMAGINARY THEATRE COMPANY Founded in 1975, it has produced over 130 touring productions, including a number of world premieres. The Imaginary Theatre Company (ITC) focuses on theatre for young people and their families. Through the use of literature, folk tales, fairy tales, and new adaptations of classic works, ITC is committed to bringing the very finest in theatre to youth where they live and learn.

In this charming story of adventure and friendship, Stellaluna, a little bat with a big heart, unexpectedly finds herself living among birds. As she learns their ways, Stellaluna wonders if she’ll ever find her place in the world. Will she uncover the secrets of who she really is? Perfect for families, this captivating show celebrates the journey of self-discovery and the power of embracing our differences.

PUBLIC PERFORMANCES AND FESTIVAL SATURDAY, APRIL 5, 2025 10:30 AM & 1:00 PM

SCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT REPSTL.ORG FOR TICKET INFORMATION

The Roommate Athena | 15

BIOGRAPHIES FOR YOUR INFORMATION HOUSE POLICIES Late Seating: Due to the nature of our Studio space, latecomers may not be able to be seated. If you are late and unable to be seated, please see the Box Office to exchange your tickets for another performance.

Electronic Devices: Please silence all electronic devices while in the theatre.

Inclement Weather Policy: In the event of inclement weather, please check our website and social media pages, or call the Box Office for current information. If a cancellation occurs, please call the Box Office starting the day after the inclement weather occurred to exchange your seats for another performance of the same production.

TICKET EXCHANGE POLICY Exchanges are an exclusive subscriber benefit. Exchanges may be made on single tickets for a small fee; subscribers are able to exchange free of charge.

Tickets may be exchanged up to two hours prior to show time. If you choose to exchange into a higher-priced area, you will be charged the difference.

No refunds are made for exchanges for lower-priced tickets.

WAYS TO SAVE For parties of 10 people or more, please contact us at 314-968-4925 or visit repstl.org/events/ways-to-save.

For seniors, students, military, first responders, or educators, please visit repstl.org/events/ways-to-save or call 314-968-4925 for additional information.

SUBSCRIBER DISCOUNTS

Subscribers can save two ways on additional ticket purchases.

Advance purchases receive a 30% discount. Last-minute purchases (beginning 48 hours prior to a show) are discounted 50%! Prior sales are excluded. Please note: there are no refunds on single-ticket purchases.

YOUR BENEFITS • Free Parking • 100% Flexibility • Special Discounts • Exclusive Communications • Early access to upcoming promotions and events

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AUDIENCE CODE OF CONDUCT Everyone deserves respect and dignity. Everyone deserves safe environments. Everyone benefits from collective learning.

To learn more visit repstl.org/audiencecodeofconduct

Assistive Listening: Free assistive listening devices using an FM system are available at Audience Services prior to all performances.

Open Captioning: We offer open captioning, an electronic text display that shows what the actors are saying or singing, at the 3rd Sunday show for Mainstage performances.

Audio Description: The Rep partners with MindsEye to offer live audio description for the 2nd Thursday performance of each Mainstage production.

Mobility Accommodations: The Rep offers services for patrons who utilize mobility aids in all of our theatre spaces. Please discuss seating requirements with the Box Office when purchasing tickets or visit Audience Services when you arrive at the theatre.

Sensory-Friendly Performance: Sensory-friendly performances are designed to create a welcoming and supportive environment for people with sensory processing challenges, autism, PTSD, sensory sensitivities, and/or other social, learning, or cognitive differences.

SHOW CALENDAR

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2PM 2PM 2PM 2PM

M

T

19

20

26

27

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3

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7PM 7 PM 7PM

W 21 28 4

15

7PM 7PM 7 PM 7PM

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29 5

T 7PM 7PM 7PM

16 23 30

7PM

6

F 7PM 7PM 7PM 7PM

17 24 31 7

S 4PM

4PM

18 25 1

4PM 4PM

8

first look

opening

post-show talkback

sensory friendly

open captioning

audio described

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ENGAGE BIOGRAPHIES & LEARN

The Rep strives to make the arts an integral part of our daily lives by providing learning and engagement programs designed to give patrons of all ages a ticket to the wonder, the fun, and the vital human spirit that composes the world of the arts. Patrons and educators are encouraged to contact the Learning and Community Engagement Department at 314968-7344 or visit our website at repstl.org/lace for more information about these and other programs.

CAMP REP

Camp Rep began as a manifestation of The Rep’s unwavering commitment to lifelong learning and the goal to foster a theatre-loving space for youth year-round. Starting in 2020 as a half-day venture, it swiftly evolved into a full-day camp by its second year. Camp Rep has grown not only in increased attendance, but has also offered a wider array of workshops encompassing acting, dance, music, stage combat, filmmaking, costume and prop design, stage management, and directing. Campers create their own performances and learn about the magic of theatre and technology behind the scenes, culminating in a final showcase for friends and family.

STORY 2 STAGE

In 2020, The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis’s Learning and Community Engagement department began the journey of reimagining programming during a time of great uncertainty and change. Story 2 Stage was launched as a pilot program in the fall of 2021, serving middle and high school students at Grand Center Arts Academy in St. Louis, Missouri. This 10-session residency program unlocks the power of storytelling by mining lived experiences, imaginations, and aspirations. The innovative, world-building curriculum, designed for learners of all ages, leads to the development of youth creating their own fully realized plays.

LIFELONG LEARNER MATINEES

More than 3,000 intergenerational learners attend Lifelong Learner Matinees at The Rep each season. These matinees are typically designed for 6th grade students and older, but we welcome learners of all ages, encouraging a diverse audience that includes all those who value continuing education through the arts.

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PAGE 2 STAGE

Page 2 Stage sends Rep volunteers and staff members into community spaces to facilitate discussions about the creation and curation of a season, from play selection to the moment it comes to life on stage. Community members learn about all the different aspects of theatre and interact with props, set models, lighting fixtures, and more. All participants are encouraged to see a production in The Rep’s current season.

WORKSHOPS

Activate The Rep as a resource! We offer storytelling, devised theatre, team building, view points, and movement workshops for corporate, non-profit, and educational groups of all sizes. We tailor our workshops to the needs of our community groups and offer them as one-day experiences or a multi-day workshop series.

REPRESENT STL

This free conversation series takes a creative approach to building community through dialogue and helps us discover the subtle truths that unite our human experience. Throughout the year, The Rep hosts thought-provoking public forums intended to provide a safe space for the free exchange of ideas. This series explores the intersectionality of art and civic life with experts and thought leaders and skillfully discusses the issues that matter most to our community.

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Cast, Crowns | 2004—2005 Season at The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis

2 PM ON TUESDAY 2 PM ON WEDNESDAY

SPRING SERIES: JOURNEYS AND DREAMS You’re invited to join Rep Reads, our fan-favorite monthly play reading club. Each month, we independently read a script and come together to discuss its themes, characters, and impact.

Rep Readers gain a deeper appreciation of dramatic literature while building community connections with fellow theatre lovers at The Rep.

JANUARY 14 – 15 English by Sanaz Toossi

FEBRUARY 11 – 12 Gem of the Ocean

by August Wilson

MARCH 11 – 12 Three Sisters

by Anton Chekhov, in a new version by Tracy Letts

STAFF KATE BERGSTROM

Augustin Family Artistic Director

ARTISTIC

Artistic Producer Delaney Piggins Artistic Associate Matthew Cox

PRODUCTION

Director of Production Jayson M. Lawshee Production Associate Taijha Silas

SCENIC

Technical Director Emilie Weilbacher-Mcmullan Assistant Technical Director Catherine Adams Charge Scenic Artist Scott Loebl Scenic Artists Stephen Pollihan James Van Well Scenic Shop Foreman Dave McCarthy Scenic Carpenters Daniel Roach, Jr. Danny McCarthy Scott DeBroux

PROPS

Properties Manager Eric William Barnes Props Assistant Abigail Stuckey Props Artisans Makayla Rodgers Alex Conn

COSTUMES

DANNY WILLIAMS Managing Director

Studio Electrician Casey Morris III Lighting Programmer Lou Ritter Mainstage Sound Engineer Joshua Riggs Studio Sound Engineer Sean Wilhite

STAGE MANAGEMENT Stage Managers Emilee Buchheit Shannon B. Sturgis

ADMINISTRATION & GENERAL MANAGEMENT General Manager Dan Schultz

Senior Manager, Administration Laura Wandersee Company and Facilities Manager Michael Ward Executive Administrator Alex Ray Attorney Sara Robertson, Polsinelli PC

Assistant Box Office Managers Michael Dorn Christian Hoffman Database Administrator Dan Ladd

Draper Elizabeth Eisloeffel

Assistant House Manager Josie Wieher

First Hands Carrisa Sexton Wes Wyman

Front of House Staff MacKenzie Bernard Piper Billingsley Caroline Buckley Caroline Bush Katelyn Cook Shannon England Kati Frazier Beth Greco Ben Hammock Avery Kelley Reagan Pendergast

Mainstage Head Electrician Connor Meers

Institutional Giving Manager Laurel Considine Manager of Partnerships & Events Bailey Pashia Development Assistant Molly Rowland

FINANCE

Finance Lead Mike Parentin Business Manager Suzanne Bodenstein Accounting Assistant Marsha Whitler Auditor Rubin Brown

Public Relations Frances White

House Manager Kyle Shoemake

Lighting & Sound Supervisor Jonathan Scully

Development Manager Rob Kapeller

Box Office Manager Kristy Kannapell

Director of Audience Services Ricki Marking-Camuto

Head Draper Robert Trump

LIGHTING & SOUND

Director of Development Stephanie Boyd

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

Assistant Costume Shop Manager Rachel Seabough

Wardrobe Supervisor Kelsi Washington

DEVELOPMENT

AUDIENCE SERVICES

Box Office Representatives Carl Wickman Carol Hodson Julie George Michelle Dougherty

Costume Shop Manager Michele Siler

Concessions Staff Alex Godefroid Lisa Lackey Mariah Rogers Molly Rowland Lundyn Whitfield

Director of Marketing Angel Azzarra

Digital Marketing Associate Ash Moon Thompson Marketing Associate Camryn Moore Graphic Designer Delores Eddington

LEARNING AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Learning Programs Manager Brian Coats Teaching and Community Engagement Manager Britney Walker-Merritte Teaching Artists Aurora Behlke DeAnté Bryant Roben Harris Kristen Lintvedt Samantha Murkin Rebekah Williams

Athena | 21

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Brian Clevinger*

Ann Cady Scott*

Susan Stith*

Judi Scissors*

Trish Alexandre*

Wendi Alper-Pressman*

PRESIDENT

SECRETARY

Gwen Middeke*

VICE PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT VOLUNTEERS

VICE PRESIDENT TREASURER

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

MEMBERS

Toni Jackson

Trish Alexandre*

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER

Wendi Alper-Pressman*

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER

David Alpers, M.D.

THOMPSON COBURN

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER ARMSTRONG TEASDALE LLP

WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE (RETIRED)

Margaret Augustin*

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER

Patrick Aydt

MERRILL LYNCH

Amy Bantle

WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE

Dan Jay*

John S. Kingston Jill Magruder

THE CIGNA GROUP

Gwen Middeke*

THE TODD ORGANIZATION OF ST. LOUIS (RETIRED)

Jane Robert*

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER

Steven Sherman

CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS

Michelle Brady

Julian Z. Schuster

Jana Broadie

Pat Schutte*

Brian Clevinger*

Judi Scissors*

Scott Fehr

Ann Cady Scott*

David Frey*

Susan Stith*

Frank Hamsher*

Susan D. Tuteur*

Laurie Hiler*

*executive committee

ERNST & YOUNG

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER PROLOG VENTURES EVERNORTH CALERES

SKYLINE PUBLIC STRATEGIES LLC CGB ENTERPRISES, INC.

Ven Houts

ERNST & YOUNG (RETIRED)

22 | The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis

WEBSTER UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER CONCORDANCE COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER

VOLUNTEER BOARD Among our most vital resources, The Rep’s Volunteer Board provides amazing support each season with donations of time, talent, and skill throughout all facets of the organization. We are so grateful to the Volunteer Board for their continued dedication as integral members of The Rep family.

If you are interested in serving on The Rep Volunteer Board, please call the Development Department at (314) 687-4030.

Trish Alexandre

Elizabeth Cobin

Lynn Yearwood

Cindy Schnabel

MEMBERS: Trish Alexandre Susan Barley Ann Bronsing Elizabeth Cobin Dorothy Diehl Denise Eschenbrenner Karen Fairbank

Glenda Hares Vicki Helling Laurie Hiler Marcia King Margie Knapp Linda Lowry Barbara Mennell Karen Miller

PRESIDENT

VICE PRESIDENT

SECRETARY

Ann Straw

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

TREASURER

Shirley Raitzch Rocky Rosen Helen Sandifer Cindy Schnabel Carol Schreiner Ann Straw Linda Vandivort Lynn Yearwood

CORPORATE & FOUNDATION PARTNERS As a nonprofit organization, The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis relies upon the support of corporate and foundation partners. The Rep gratefully acknowledges the following corporations and foundations whose generous support helps us to create the highest caliber of professional theatre for St. Louis, engage the next generation of theatregoers and provide opportunities for diverse artists. For information about how your business or organization can support The Rep, contact the Development Department at (314) 687-4030. $100,000+

Employees Community Foundation of Boeing

The Shubert Foundation Inc.

Gardner Capital

The Berges Family Foundation Whitaker Foundation

$25,000–$99,999 Arts Consulting Group

Mary Ranken Jordan and Ettie A. Jordan Charitable Foundation Pershing Charitable Trust

$10,000–$24,999

Louis D. Beaumont Fund No. 1 of the St. Louis Community Foundation

New Growth Horizon Foundation Tito’s Handmade Vodka The Trio Foundation of St. Louis U.S. Bank

$5,000–$9,999 Caleres

Sign of the Arrow/St. Louis Alumnae Club of Pi Beta Phi

$2,500–$4,999

Excel Business Concepts Graybar Foundation Webster University ONE Gas Foundation

$1,000–$2,499

Commerce Bancshares Foundation Joy Waltke Fisher Fund of the St. Louis Community Foundation Moneta Charitable Foundation Gifts received 12/19/2023-12/19/2024

Edward Chase Garvey Memorial Foundation

Athena | 23

HONOR ROLL

INDIVIDUAL DONORS

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis is grateful to the following donors who have made contributions of $1,500 or more in the last year. $20,000+ Anonymous (3) David & Melanie Alpers ✠ James Berges & Elizabeth Mannen Berges  Patty & Kent Chapin  John Goodman ✠ Ven & Cynthia Houts  Gwen & Paul Middeke  Jane & Bruce Robert  Pat & Ken Schutte  Ann Cady Scott  Mary Strauss ✠ Steve & Christine Tillery  Susan & Peter Tuteur  Mei Chen Welland ✠ $10,000 - $19,999 C&L Charles Amen  Patti Bauer  Ted & Robbie Beaty  Mark & Teri Brenner  Vicki & Brian Clevinger ✠ Elizabeth & Don Cobin  Laurie Hiler ✠ Lee & Gina Hoagland ✠ Mark & Peggy Holly  Antonnette M. Jackson  Dr. Stuart Kornfeld  Sally Lemkemeier  Dr. Robert & Martha Senior  $5,000 - $9,999 Joseph & Lauren Allen  Wendi Alper-Pressman & Norman Pressman ✠ Patrick Aydt  Darla & Brad Baker Susan Barley  P.E. Belloli & Dave Shimek 

Kathy Berg  Elizabeth & Anthony Cook Drs. Preeti Dalawari & John Vandover Pamela Wing Dern ✠ Mary Alice Dwyer-Dobbin  Robert & Lisa Forsyth  David Frey  Dr. Anne Carol Goldberg & Ronald Levin ✠ Joanne & Joel Iskiwitch  Sally Johnston  Gerry Kowarsky  Kent A. Lewis  David & Ginny McDonald  Charlotte & Jim Mielziner Erma O’Brien Jerry & Judy Potthoff  Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Schlafly Terry & Sally Schnuck ✠ Bevis & Patience Schock Judi Scissors  Janice & Steve Seele ✠ Janet Shatz Steve Sherman & Patsy King Betty Simons Joan Tiemann  David P. Weiss $2,500 - $4,999 Anonymous Trish & Michael Abbene ✠ Joseph & Trish Alexandre Penni Alper, Miracle Makers Foundation Costas & Assimo Azariadis  Mark D. Bernstein ✠ Sam C. Bertolet & Helen D. Ziercher  Mrs. H. Pharr Brightman ✠ Samuel Burstein & Cheryl Boyd

24 | The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis

Elaine Coe ✠ Dr. Kevin & Lisa Coleman  Robert & Rebecca Courtney  Myra & Gene Crandall ✠ Mike & Sue Darcy Michael Dern ✠ Jim Donnelly & Tracey Temanson  Larry Essmann*  Laura & Ted Greenberg  Tim & Elizabeth Hampton  Frank Hamsher  Glenda Hares Bill & Linda Hentchel  Marian & Maurice Hirsch  Mike Isaacson & Joe Ortmeyer  Daniel G. Jay & Mary Ann Lazarus  Dr. Theresa & Zulfikar Jeevanjee  Nancy Scanlon Koplar  Nancy & Kenneth Kranzberg ✠ Dr. Katherine Kreusser & Dr. Robert Young Laura & David Margolis  Mrs. Rena Murphy ✠ John & Christy Nickel Andrew & Lori O’Brien  Mike & Barb Quinn  Mrs. Peter E. Sargent  Carol Schreiner Steve & Marlene Schumm  Christine Secorsky & Greg Sacho Dr. John Sopuch  Ann & Jack Straw ✠ Mary Susman & Thomas Herm  Paul & Linda Vandivort  Autumn Ward

Michael D. Ward Mike & Barbara Willock  Lynn & Darrell Yearwood  $1,500 - $2,499 Anonymous (2) Bill Aitken  Margaret Augustin ✠ Christy Beckmann Ms. Sandra Bellon Nancy Berg  Holly & Marc Bernstein Lauren Smith Blair Michael & Arlue Briggs ✠ Jana Broadie Ann Bronsing Suzan Kelsey Brooks  Linda & Jack Bryant Kelley & Tim Ciampoli  Dr. Debbie A. Depew  Mike Doherty & Kathy Kane Joan & John Dougherty Mr. and Mrs. Henry Dubinsky  Peter Dunn David & Carla Eilering Richard Engelsmann & Diane Buhr Engelsmann  Jeffrey & Veronica Fernhoff Kirk & Alice Fritsch  Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Fromm  James & Darla Gavin Ed & Julie Glotzbach  E.L. Green ✠ Robert & Donna Heider Kathleen Locklar Heimann  Margaret & Michael Heinz  W. F. Samuel Hopmeier  Jeanne & Aron Katzman  Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Kessler  John S. Kingston Scott & Mary-Kay Kirchner Paul & Martha LaFata Mike Maskus & Cathy Augustin  Chris & Jill Magruder Susan & James McHugh C. Arden Mennell 

Beth & Jim Meteer Liz & Brian Mischel James & Susan Morrell  Ellen Nahlik, Simons Family Charitable Trust Freda & Harry Rich ✠ Mary & Peter Rohr  Joseph & Sammy Ruwitch  Tom & Kathy Ryan Cathy & Tom Sakiyama  Paul & Cindy Schnabel  Margot Schwab  Julian & Helen Seeherman, The Seeherman Charitable Fund ✠ Diane Sher Lisa & Allan Silverberg ✠ Ray Simon & Mel Pashea Donna & Howard Smith Susan & Drexel Stith Terry Thornton Selden Y. Trimble, in memory of Joyce Price Trimble  Lynne & Jim Turley Drs. Craig & Terri Weldon 

Gifts received 12/19/2023 – 12/19/2024

LIFETIME GIVING LEVELS $250,000+ $100,000‒$249,999 ✠ $50,000‒$99,999 $25,000‒$49,999 $10,000‒$24,999

Athena | 25

SUPPORT THE ARTS Thank you so much for seeing the show! Whether you are a loyal subscriber or joining us for the first time, we are grateful that you’ve dedicated time to support live theatre in St. Louis.

Each season, The Rep depends on the generosity of our community to produce world-class theatre on our stages. Ticket and subscription sales cover less than half of our operating expenses.

Please consider supporting The Rep. Your gift, no matter the size, plays a crucial role in sustaining our work this season.

Here are some ways you can give to The Rep! Make a one-time gift or join our monthly giving program.

Online: Visit us at repstl.org/ support or scan the QR codes below.

By Phone: Call the Development Department at (314) 687-4030.

By Mail: Send a check to: The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, Attention: Development Department, 130 Edgar Road, Saint Louis, MO 63119

Donor Advised Funds and Retirement Funds

The Rep accepts tax-free distributions from Donor Advised Funds and Qualified Charitable Distributions from retirement savings accounts. Our EIN is 43-0970273. For any questions, please contact the Development team at development@repstl.org or 314-687-4030.

Ensemble, MOBY DICK | Photography by Liz Lauren

Gifts of Stock

For more information on making a donation of stock to The Rep, please contact the Development team at development@repstl.org or 314-687-4030.

Matching Gifts

Enhance your gift to The Rep through your employer’s matching gift program. Learn more at repstl.org/matching-gifts.

Encore Circle

Become an active player in carrying on the tradition of fine theatre with a planned gift to The Rep. Learn more at repstl.org/ support/encore-circle.

To learn more about ways to begin or expand your giving story with The Rep, call the Development Department at (314) 687-4030.

repstl.org/support

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