Applause 71

applause

2015 – 2016 PROGRAM GUIDE

900 Broadway, Columbus, GA • 706.256.3612 • rivercenter.org

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ONLY AT RIVERCENTER: TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2016 2

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Applause September - November 2015

Issue No. 71

Doc Severinsen September 10 Skippyjon Jones: Snow What October 4 Last Comic Standing—LIVE November 6 Straight No Chaser November 28

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31 39 Nephew Tommy a.k.a Thomas Miles and Friends

SPOTLIGHT SPECIALS

OCTOBER 30, 2015 8:00

PM

Camp Laughing Child Presents: The Charlie Daniels Band NOVEMBER 10, 2015 7:30

CONTENTS 6 8 11

Curtain Raisers RiverCenter Members RiverCenter Capstone Society

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Volunteers Board of Trustees Administration and Staff Ticket Information

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OUR MISSION RiverCenter for the Performing Arts (RCPA) is a state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Uptown Columbus. Its performance halls and outdoor event space include Bill Heard Theatre, Legacy Hall, Studio Theatre, and the Illges Plaza. RCPA is operated by RiverCenter Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit arts organization. RiverCenter annually hosts its own season of national and international performances, educational programs, and outreach activities. In addition, RiverCenter provides a home for the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, Schwob School of Music, Youth Orchestra of Greater Columbus, Cantus Columbus, and the Columbus Ballet.

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To help support RiverCenter please contact the Advancement

RIVERCENTER SUPPORTS RiverCenter supports third-party events by providing a space for their recitals, pageants, receptions, local productions, or managed tours. Popular third-party events this season include: • Miss Georgia Pageant 2016 • The Nutcracker by the Columbus Ballet • 25th Annual National Trumpet Competition • Cufflinks and Pearls • Maneuver Center of Excellence Holiday Concert • Georgia Thespian Conference • Junior League Follies

Team at 706.256.3653 or development@rivercenter.org

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RiverCenter Sponsorship Programs

Ticket sales meet only a portion of RiverCenter’s operating expenses. The balance is covered by contributions to RiverCenter and by endowment income. The generosity of many individuals and corporations helps RiverCenter present world-class artists and offer varied educational opportunities. To receive information about becoming a Member or Curtain Raiser call 706-256-3653 or email development@rivercenter.org.

RC Sponsors: Curtain Raisers

Curtain Raisers is the donor program for corporate donors or sponsors. The program supports RiverCenter’s diverse program schedule, including professional touring attractions and educational activities. Benefits are available within your price point.

Please contact RiverCenter’s Advancement Team by calling 706-256-3653 or email development@rivercenter.org.

SEASON SPONSOR

CHAMPION

SUSTAINER

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BENEFACTOR

SPONSORSHIP IN MEMORY OF GERALDINE SPENCE

DIAMOND

MISS LUCY HILL BOWERS JUDY W. THOMAS

GARY & LANDA TRENTHAM

PLATINUM

Wells Fargo Westfield Insurance

Greystone Properties Hughston Clinic SunTrust GOLD

Anonymous (1) Columbus Botanical Garden Liberty Utilities

ColumbusPower Oneda Corporation Storage Master

Fox Theatre Institute

SILVER

Anonymous (1) ALBOES Computers

Knight-Rawls, Inc. BRONZE

Duke and The Doctor

Rivertown Dental Care 7

RiverCenter Members MARQUEE SOCIETY MEMBERS • The Marquee Society advances fulfillment of RiverCenter’s mission of “bringing together a variety of artists and audiences for entertainment, education and enrichment of the cultural life of our region.” Society members annually contribute $1,000 or more and receive an invitation to RiverCenter’s annual Marquee Society Reception, featuring a noted performer, ensemble or speaker; the priviledge of exchanging purchased tickets to an event (before that event) for available seats at another event of equal or lesser value; concierge phone service; and all Silver & Bronze level benefits.

Contact Lauren Minter at 706-256-3653 to discuss RiverCenter membership.

MARQUEE SOCIETY: CHAMPION LEVEL

Anonymous (1)

Mildred Miller Fort Foundation

MARQUEE SOCIETY: SUSTAINER LEVEL

Anonymous (1) MARQUEE SOCIETY: BENEFACTOR LEVEL

Mr. & Mrs. Stephen T. Butler

Gardiner & Nora Garrard

MARQUEE SOCIETY: DIAMOND LEVEL

Anonymous (2)

Al & Betsy Ramsay

Mr. & Mrs. Daniel P. Amos

Mrs. Mary W. Schley

Mr. & Mrs. Cecil Cheves

Gary & Landa Trentham

Akitoshi & Etsuko Kan

Mr. & Mrs. Wright B. Waddell

Ms. Polly Miller

Ray M. & Jane Wright Foundation

Judy W. Thomas MARQUEE SOCIETY: PLATINUM LEVEL

Judge & Mrs. Barschall Andrews Mrs. Tom B. Black

Kriss & Lisa Cloninger Mrs. Richard Hallock

Dr. David & Suzanne Levine 8

Mr. & Mrs. John C. Martin, II Mrs. Francis A. Norman

Mrs. Sam Rawls

Rick & Jan Ussery

Mrs. Virginia Norman

Wade & Adrianne Wallace

Mr. & Mrs. Jack Pease, III

James D. & Ruth B. Yancey

in memory of Rozier Dedwylder

Mr. & Mrs. M. Troy Woods

MARQUEE SOCIETY: GOLD LEVEL

Anonymous (2) Dr & Mrs. Ferdinand Q. Alcaide Rick & Cindy Alexander Dr. Catalina Aranas Dr. Champ & Sue Anne Baker Jacob & Claire Beil Dr. & Mrs. Thomas N. Bernard, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Walker R. Bickerstaff Mr. & Mrs. Walker R. Bickerstaff, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. James H. Blanchard Mr. & Mrs. Richard Bradley Sherida Brannan Frank & JoAnn Brown Mr. & Mrs. Charles W. Burgin Max and Ann Burr Mrs. Forrest L. Champion, Jr. Creek Stand Partners, LP Mr. & Mrs. Thad Estes Suzanne & Joel Fine Tom & Loretta Flowers Mrs. Frank D. Foley, Jr. Dr. & Mrs. Mark R. Fortson Mr. & Mrs. D. Clyde Fountain Cindy & Spencer Garrard Mr. & Mrs. J. Hudson Garrett Mr. & Mrs. G. Sanders Griffith, III Mr & Mrs. A. Comer Hobbs, Sr. Roderick C. & Stephanie Y. Hunter Jo & George Jeter Matthew E. & Cynthia Woodsmall Jones Mr. & Mrs. Gaylon M. Jowers, Jr. Dr. William P. Kendall Ashok & Mary Kumar John & Kayron Laska Dr. & Mrs. Thomas W. Lawhorne, Jr.

Mrs. Donald M. Leebern, Jr. Dr. & Mrs. Darcy Leerssen Mr. Wendell Lewis Mr. & Mrs. Anthony D. Link Mr. & Mrs. James B. Lipham Jacki W. Lowe Mr. & Mrs. Chuck Lowery Judge Julia W. Lumpkin & Col. (Ret.) Donald M. Sando Jim & Debbie Martin Rick & Marquette McKnight Mr. & Mrs. A. Ben Moon, Jr. Jimmy & Barbara Motos Mr. & Mrs. Jerry B. Newman Marc & Marleen Olivie David & Linell Pringle Joan Redmond Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Reed Richard & Helen Robbins Barbara Rothschild Mr. & Mrs. Claude G. Scarbrough, III Mr. & Mrs. John A. Shinkle Drs. Kaizad & Payal Shroff Mr. Gavin Spence In memory of Geraldine Spence Mr. & Mrs. Clifford J. Swift, III Jim & Pat Thompson Chip & Audrey Tillman Mr. & Mrs. Philip Tomlinson Brad & Sally Turner Mr. & Mrs. Jack G. Turner Mr. & Mrs. John T. Turner Chris Weaver James & Teresa White Mr. & Mrs. Joel O. Wooten Dr. & Mrs. George W. Zimmerman

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SILVER & BRONZE MEMBERS • Individuals may become members of RiverCenter with a contribution of $100 or more. Members are listed in Applause and receive a newsletter and coupons for free beverages. Silver members also receive advance notice of newly engaged events (Spotlight Specials).

SILVER LEVEL Anonymous (2)

Charlyn Kerr

Bruce & Angie Bacon

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Mrs. Melinda Hunter

Drs. Bobbi Farber & Thomas Walsh

Ed & Lana Helton

Mr. & Mrs. Mat D. Swift

Pam & Charlie Johnson

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BRONZE LEVEL Mr. & Mrs. W. Mizell Alexander Ray L. Allison

Thomas B. Buck, III

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Mr. & Mrs. Richard F. Andrews Peggy & Charles Batastini Mansfield & Bernice Bias Mrs. James J. W. Biggers, Jr. Alfred & Courtney Blackmar

Mr. & Mrs. Marc Calhoun John & Eva Chappelle Dr. Thomas Cochran

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Steve & Mary Hall

Ms. Julie A. Bray

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Neil Block & Regina Satlof Chuck & Carol Bradshaw

Dr. & Mrs. Philip L. Brewer 10

Dr. & Mrs. Robert H. Bush

Mrs. Marion Cornwell

Arnold & Lindy Goodman

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MG (Ret.) & Mrs. Henry H. Harper

Phil & Marie Hand

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Corneila S. Partain

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Mary Stewart

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Mr. & Mrs. Gene Perkins

Patty Kimbrough Taylor

Jo Ann & Ernie Kirk

RuthAnn & Lamar Powers

Mr. & Mrs. Dave Troxel

Helen Reinking & Bill Jones

Mr. Richard M. Tucker In memory of Marjorie S. Tucker

Jean & Gerald Kent Dr. A.J. Kravtin

Mr. & Mrs. Mason Houghland Lampton Mr. & Mrs. John T. Laney III Mr. & Mrs. Ray Lemieux Margaret Lewis

Marv & Vicki Lieberman

Bill & Pat Porter

Mr. & Mrs. E. Lowry Reid, Jr. Marjorie T. Richardson Sally Rotunno

Dr. Carole Rutland & Robert D. Offer

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Mr. & Mrs. Wesley J. Mason Mr. & Mrs. Max McGlamry Dr. & Mrs. F. J. Meine

Patricia Schneider

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Jim & Janice Sigmund Mrs. Bettye T. Spence

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Tim Vinson

Dr. Thomas A. & Sherry F. Wade Mary Lewis & Duke Walsh Rex & Lynn Whiddon

Mr. & Mrs. J. Mark Weaver In honor of Chris Weaver & Wendell Lewis Lamar & Dorenda Weaver Faye B. Woodruff

David & Cathy Woolbright Jerrel & Laura Yates

Mrs. Margaret G. Zollo

The Capstone Society

“Assuring the Promise of Tomorrow”

The Capstone Society is RiverCenter’s planned-giving program. The society honors donors who disclose they have included RiverCenter for the Per­forming Arts in their estate plans. It provides RiverCenter the opportunity to recognize and thank these donors during their lifetimes and cul­ti­vates a more abundant relation­ship between the donors and RiverCenter. If you have made a plan­ned gift to River­Center, Inc. and are not listed below, or if you wish to discuss how your planned gift can assist RiverCenter in its artistic and educa­tional mission, please contact Lauren Minter in the develop­ment office at 706-256-3653.

Wendell Lewis, founding member Mr. & Mrs. W. Mizell Alexander Thomas B. Buck III

Mrs. Otis B. Burnham Dorothy Jean Bush Nora Garrard Charlyn Kerr

Dr. Timothy Mescon Virginia Norman Chris Weaver 11

This performance is dedicated to the memory of Geraldine Spence.

April 30, 2016

This one’s for you...

Geraldine Spence

“Gerry was my life partner. She and I met as teens at a place called Scraggy Neck on Cape Cod. We would have celebrated our 50th anniversary this past year. She was a wonderful wife and mother who was primarily responsible for the fact that we raised three children—Heather, Greg and Patrick—of whom we are justifiably proud. She loved and doted on our four grandchildren— Harrison, Will, Caroline and Bert and would be thrilled to know that a fifth grandchild is on the way. In the mid 1960’s I was in graduate school at Princeton—only about an hour from New York City. We used the opportunity to go to many Broadway shows. We had always loved Broadway musicals, and this love was enhanced by seeing shows with legendary performers such as Ethel Merman, Barbra Streisand, Jerry Ohrbach, Angela Lansbury, Liza Minelli, Zero Mostel, Carol Burnett, Sammy Davis, Jr and many others. I chose 42nd Street for this tribute because in October, 2001 it was the last Broadway musical Gerry and I attended in New York.” —Gavin Spence

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SEPTEMBER 10

Presented BY

DOC SEVERINSEN 17

DOC SEVERINSEN Heeeeere’s Johnny!” That lead-in, followed by a big band trumpet blast, was the landmark of late night television for three decades. The ‘Johnny’ was Johnny Carson, the announcer was Ed McMahon and the bandleader was Doc Severinsen. Beginning in October 1962, “The Tonight Show” with Johnny Carson ruled the night air for thirty years.

On May 22, 1992, it came to an end…

Within a week of the final telecast, Doc Severinsen and His Big Band were on the road, and to this day, audiences across America love and respect Doc and his big band, not just because he shared their living room with them for so many years, but because of Doc’s love of the Big Band repertoire. His musicianship keeps this iconic American music fresh to this day. Their repertoire includes Ellington and Basie standards, pop, jazz, ballads, big band classics and, of course, “The Tonight Show theme”. Severinsen can still blow hard with his horn, and hit the high notes, a result of his continued commitment to the practice studio and the refinement of his craft. But as a band leader, Doc continues to surround himself with the best in the business, and he’s only too happy to give them a turn in the spotlight.

Tonight’s program will be announced from the stage.

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DOC SEVERINSEN

DOC SEVERINSEN (trumpet) A Grammy award winner, Doc has made more than 30 albums—from big band to jazz-fusion to classical. Two critically acclaimed Telarc CDs with the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra showcase his multifaceted talents from Bach to ballads. In 2006, Doc moved to San Miguel de Allende, in Mexico, ostensibly to retire from performance. Within weeks, he was jamming with the magnificent guitarist Gil Gutierrez. He now tours regularly with Gil in a quintet called The San Miguel Five, performing a mix of Latin and Gypsy jazz and standards, to exceptional acclaim.

Severinsen’s accomplishments began in his hometown of Arlington, Oregon, population: 600. Carl H. Severinsen was born on July 7th, 1927, and was nicknamed “Little Doc” after his father, Dr. Carl Severinsen, a dentist. Little Doc had originally wanted to play the trombone. But Doc Sr., a gifted amateur violinist, urged him to follow in his father’s footsteps. The Doc Jr. insisted on the trombone, which turned out to be unavailable in tiny Arlington’s music store. And so, a trumpet it would be.

Doc arrived in New York City in 1949 to become a staff musician for NBC. After years of playing with NBC’s many studio bands, Doc was invited to play a gig in the highly respected “Tonight Show” Band.

The band leader at the time, Skitch Henderson, asked him to join that band in 1962 in the first trumpet chair. Five years later, Doc became the Music Director for “The Tonight Show” and the rest is history.

VANESSA THOMAS (soprano) Ms. Thomas is a popular vocalist in the Kansas City area, and regularly performs concerts and recitals throughout the Mid-West. Thomas is known for her 4-octave range and an unusual versatility in various musical genres, including modern opera, operetta, Lieder and chansons, traditional choral masterworks, as well as jazz and Music Theater. She has performed with such notable players as Doc Severinsen,

Ed Shaughnessy, Mike Metheny, and Gary Foster, and sung under the baton of Robert Spano and James Conlon. Thomas was featured recently both in “Jingle Bell Doc” with Doc Severinsen and the Minnesota Orchestra, and in the World Premier of Kirke Mechem’s new opera “John Brown” with Lyric Opera Kansas City, and has also sung with Lyric Opera Express of Kansas City. Upcoming events include singing with the New Theatre of Kansas City for their upcoming season of Broadway musicals, and with the Minnesota Pops Orchestra next season in “Springtime in Paris,” a concert featuring music of French chanteuses Edith Piaf and Josephine Baker.

DOC SEVERINSEN AND HIS BIG BAND Doc Severinsen, Trumpet Vanessa Thomas, Vocals TRUMPETS: Michael Wyatt Nathan Warner Michael Spirko Vance Thompson TROMBONES: Tom Lundberg Don Hough Brad McDougall SAXOPHONES: Mark Tucker — Alto David King — Alto Greg Tardy — Tenor William Boyd — Tenor Tom Johnson — Baritone RHYTHM: Bill Swann — Piano Tom Sauter — Bass Keith Brown — Drums 19

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OCTOBER 4

supported by GARY & LANDA TRENTHAM

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SKIPPYJON JONES Theatreworks USA Barbara Pasternack

Ken Arthur

Artistic Director

Producing Director

present

Music by

Book and Lyrics by

Eli Bolin

Kevin Del Aguila

Based on the SKIPPYJON JONES series of books by

Judy Schachner

Scenic Design by

Arrangements & Incidental Music by

Rob Odorisio

Dan Pardo

Music Direction by

Orchestrations by

Costume Design by

Tracy Christensen Stage Manager

Dan Pardo

Frank Galgano & Matt Castle

Corey Cavenaugh

Originally Directed by

Originally Choreographed by

Assistant Director

Kevin Del Aguila

Connor Gallgher

Dennis Corsi

Choreographer

Amanda Holt Director

Kevin Del Aguila

Cast (in alphabetical order by role)

Jezebel/Poquito Tito ........................................................................ Jacqueline Real Jilly Boo/Don Diego .............................................................................. Alex Gilbert Ju Ju Bee/Nieve Que ............................................................................Anna Paloma Mama Junebug/The Wicked Bruja..............................................................Sal England Skippyjon Jones.................................................................................. Alan Medrano The taking of pictures and/or making of visual or sound recording is expressly forbidden.

Please check the houseboard for any program changes.

This program from Theatreworks USA is supported, in part, with public funds from the National Endowment for the Arts, the New York State Council on the Arts, a state agency, and by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council.

The actors and stage manager employed in this production are members of Actors’ Equity Association, the union of professional actors and stage managers in the United States.

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The Director/ Choreographer is a member of the STAGE DIRECTORS AND CHOREOGRAPHERS SOCIETY, a national theatrical labor union.

SKIPPYJON JONES

MUSICAL NUMBERS

“Snow Day”.........................................................Mama Junebug, Ju-Ju Bee, Jezebel, Jilly Boo, and SkippyJon Jones “Snow Day (Reprise)”........................................................................................................Ju-Ju Bee, Jezebel, Jilly Boo “Adventure”.........................................................................................................................................Skippyjon Jones “Seven Chihuahuas”................................................................................................Don Diego and Los Chimichangos “My Name is Skippito Friskito”............................................................................................................Skippyjon Jones “Nieve Que”..........................................................................................................Los Chimichangos, Skippyjon Jones “Ocho Chihuahuas”..............................................................................................Los Chimichangos, Skippyjon Jones “There is Nothing like a Kiss”.............................................................Don Diego, Los Chimichangos, Skippyjon Jones “There is Nothing like a Kiss (Reprise)”...............................................................................................Skippyjon Jones “True Love”....................................................................................................................................................Nieve Qué “Some Prince”.............................................................................................................................Nieve Qué, Ensemble “Some Prince (Reprise)”...............................................................................................Los Chimichangos, Poquito Tito “The Bruja Song”...........................................................................................................................The Bruja, the Mirror “Great Sword Fighter (En Garde!)”....................................................................................Skippyjon Jones, Nieve Qué “The Bruja Song (Reprise)”.................................................................................................The Bruja, Skippyjon Jones “El Dragon”...........................................................................Nieve Qué, Bruja, Skippyjon, Dragon, Los Chimichangos “Some Prince (Reprise)”................................................................................................................................Nieve Qué “Midnight!”....................................................................................................................................................Company “There is Nothing like a Kiss (Reprise) (Finale)”..............Mama Junebug, Ju-Ju Bee, Jezebel, Jilly Boo, and Skippyjon 27

NOVEMBER 6

presented by

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LAST COMIC STANDING “Last Comic Standing” has a history of showcasing performers who go on to highly successful careers.

Previous contestants include the red-hot Amy Schumer, stand-up sensation Gabriel Iglesias, and Iliza Shlesinger, whose “Freezing Hot” Netflix special recently premiered.

Who knows… One (or more) of this year’s top five touring comics could be a future comedy legend! But if you’re sitting in the audience already, we don’t have to tell you that!

“Last Comic Standing” spent the summer of 2015 searching for the funniest comedian in the country. Judged by an elite panel—including Roseanne Barr, Keenan Ivory Wayans, and Norm Macdonald—100 hopefuls competed for 40 semi-final slots. The field has been narrowed to the Top Ten as of the printing of this publication.

SEMI-FINAL ROUND ONE WINNERS include “Totally Biased” with W. Kamau Bell and “Late CLAYTON ENGLISH, best known for his role as ‘Peanut’ on TYLER PERRY’S HOUSE OF PAYNE, has been making audiences laugh throughout the country on screen and on stage. An Atlanta native, he has taken his standup routine from LA to London. His performances are not to be missed as he is truly one of the rising new faces in comedy.

Night” with Jimmy Fallon.

FRANCISCO RAMOS performs regularly at the major comedy clubs in Los Angeles such as the Comedy Store, Comedy & Magic Club, Laugh Factory, Improvs and is quickly becoming one of the best Latin comics in the industry. He was the voice of the Lead Marmoset in the movie “RIO” with Anne Hathaway and Jesse Eisenberg and he has toured worldwide as a standup comic— TAYLOR TOMLINSON started doing stand up comedy including a USO Tour to Afghanistan. He has appeared in at just sixteen years old, when she realized that her several sketches on “Jimmy Kimmel Live “ and will also quiet, sarcastic asides were not being adequately be a part of Steve Carell’s new TBS pilot “Tribeca”. appreciated by her peers. Her self-deprecating charm and conversational wit have made her a favorite at comedy clubs, colleges, and corporate events across SEMI-FINAL ROUND TWO WINNERS the country. She was featured in her own weekly MICHAEL PALASCAK made his network debuts on “The Late Show” with David Letterman and “The Tonight Show” segment (“Young as Hell”) on “Laughs on FOX”. with Jay Leno in the same year. Desiring to perform all ANDY ERIKSON’s love of squirrels and unicorns is only forms of comedy, Michael took sketch and improv classes surpassed by her love of performing standup comedy. at The Second City in Chicago, iO, and Annoyance. In She intertwines silly one-liners with whimsical stories Chicago, Michael debuted his one-person sketch show— in a playful but thought provoking way. Andy won Pursuing Happiness: A bunch of scenes about people that the Aspen Rooftop College Comedy Festival and was moved out of their parents’ house, got a real job and got a semi-finalist for the Andy Kaufman Award in 2009, married. Performed by a guy who didn’t. took first place in the Funniest Person with a Day Job contest AND the Duluth’s funniest person competition RYAN CONNER has a style of sharp story-telling that in 2010, and was a finalist in the Great America is unique and hilarious. He’s a contributing writer for Comedy Festival in 2013.

“Saturday Night Live’s” Weekend Update and a writer for MTV’s “Ridiculousness” and he’s worked with Dave SHENG WANG developed and honed his comedy in Chappelle, Colin Quinn, Mike Birbiglia and Mitch the thriving standup community of the San Francisco Hedberg. He’s also a frequent guest on the Jim Breuer Bay Area. He has toured with the Comedians of Comedy Show on Sirius Radio. And in case he hasn’t mentioned and American Eagle’s Campus Comedy Challenge. it, he writes for “Saturday Night Live” … so obviously he He has also appeared on Comedy Central’s “Live at is hilarious.

Gotham” and attended the Just for Laughs comedy festival in Montreal. Wang’s half hour Comedy Central JOE LIST is quickly becoming known as one of the special aired in 2011. More recent TV appearances hottest new comedians in New York performing regularly

LAST COMIC STANDING at some of the top clubs in the city. As well as being a regular favorite in clubs and colleges in New York and New England, in the last 2 years Joe has also been seen at many of the best comedy clubs across the country as the preferred feature act for Comedy Central’s Nick DiPaolo. As well as all his successes as a stand-up comedian Joe has also recently written a short bio for himself in which he chose to use the words ‘Joe’ and ‘he’ instead of the word ‘I’ as if someone else wrote it for him.

DOMINIQUE WITTEN What is there to know about Dominique Witten? Well, if you’re interested in highpowered comedy, everything. From headlining comedy clubs, to showing-out on television, Dominique is the new face of funny in America. She’s created laughs on stages all across the world, including HBO’s “Def Comedy Jam”, Comedy Central’s “Chappelle’s Show”, O.W.N.’s “Herlarious” and the hit television series “Black Jesus” now airing on Adult Swim.

IAN BAGG started his comedy career in his native country, Canada. He proceeded to do all the show

business things that every successful Canadian entertainer does. He went to a “Hockey Night in Canada” game on a Saturday night, performed at the “Montreal Comedy Festival,” kissed a fish in New Foundland and a “Comedy Now” special on CTV. So what does a Canadian do when he has done it all? He boards a train to New York City, lives in a youth hostel and ends up on “Late Night with Conan O’Brien”, “The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson” and “Tonight Show with Jay Leno.” It is not always fun and games. He was forced to do “Make Me Laugh”, “Showcase Comics with Louie Anderson”, “Fridays” on NBC and the “Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn”. His new, one-hour special “Ian Bagg: Getting to F*cking Know You” premiered on Showtime in April 2013.

“Last Comic Standing” is executive produced by Wanda Sykes, Page Hurwitz and Javier Winnik.

The series is produced by Universal Television and Push It Productions.

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The Heart of TSYS TSYS is proud to be a supporter of the RiverCenter’s 2015 -2016 season. The Heart of TSYS is our commitment to helping build a strong, vibrant community by putting people at the center of everything we do.

Thank you, RiverCenter, for your commitment to culture and the arts in our community.

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NOVEMBER2828 NOVEMBER

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supported by

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STRAIGHT NO CHASER If the phrase “male a cappella group” conjures up an image of students in blue blazers, ties, and khakis singing traditional college songs on ivied campuses... think again. Straight No Chaser (SNC) are neither strait-laced nor straight-faced, but neither are they vaudeville-style kitsch. They have emerged as a phenomenon with a massive fanbase, numerous national TV appearances and proven success with CD releases. THE NEW OLD FASHIONED TOUR comes to town on the heels of the release of their new album “The New Old Fashioned,” their fifth album release through Atlantic Records. The album features an eclectic array of songs that explore multiple influential musical eras highlighted by signature and singularly unique medleys. Straight No Chaser is the real deal, the captivating sound of ten unadulterated human voices coming together to make extraordinary music that is moving people in a fundamental sense... and with a sense of humor. On the road, Straight No Chaser has built a reputation as an unforgettable live act.

WHO’S WHO

MICHAEL LUGINBILL is a singer/songwriter/audio WALTER CHASE, an NYC-based freelance music producer

engineer originally from Indianapolis, IN. He performed overseas for several years after college as an entertainer on Celebrity Cruise Lines. Upon his return, Michael played guitar and sang lead vocals in Mitchell Street Band, a Bloomington, Indiana-based original pop/funk quintet. Currently he is on the road with SNC, while also developing original material for future independent projects.

and arranger, has written and produced music for bands, staged productions, and a cappella groups. He is a vocal coach, a trained studio engineer, an avid sports fan (Mets, Eagles, Devils, IU Basketball) and happily married.

DON NOTTINGHAM graduated from IU in 2000 then went to law school at the University of Colorado, where he (re-)met his soon-to-be wife Erica. Since law school graduation in 2004, Don has been a Deputy District RANDY STINE produced Straight No Chaser’s “Live at Attorney in Jefferson County, Colorado, putting evil-doers the Musical Arts Center” on DVD in 2006. Clips from behind bars. the DVD, posted on YouTube, received over 8 million views, sparking the group to reunite and sign a deal SARGON ISHO (SEGGIE) was born in February 1983.

He loves performing with SNC, playing sports, traveling with Atlantic Records. and cooking. His musical influences include classical DAVID ROBERTS performed in an a cappella quartet composers, Brian McKnight and Stevie Wonder. on Celebrity Cruise Lines in 2003, after leaving a position as a sales manager at a hotel in Chicago. After TYLER TREPP graduated from Indiana University in that stint, he earned an MBA from Fordham University 2007. He was the sixth Music Director of IU Another in New York City, where he currently resides and works Round (formerly IU Straight No Chaser) producing the groups 6th CD “Another Round.” After graduation, he for a large global bank. started the 4 part Acapella group, “Oceans Four” who CHARLIE MECHLING, recently relocated to Las sang on Celebrity Cruise Ships all around the world. He Vegas from New York City with his wife, who is also a has been in SNC for years and loves every minute of it performer. A native of Bloomington, Indiana, Mechling (even Seggie). He and enjoys golf, Sportscenter, and has performed in major regional theaters, including seeing his friends and family. the Barrington Stage Company and Cape Fear Regional Theatre, and has toured nationally with various shows, STEVE MORGAN is a veteran of the Broadway shows “Mamma Mia” and “Good Vibrations” and has been a and internationally with the USO. featured soloist with numerous orchestras across the JEROME COLLINS is very passionate about music and globe. He soloed with the Cincinnati Pops under the performing. He was previously in Hong Kong living direction of Erich Kunzel on the Disney album “Magical life as Simba in the Lion King before being signed to Musicals”, on the PBS special “Patriotic Broadway” Atlantic. with Tom Wopat and John Schneider, and at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. A native of Evansville, IN, he now calls Cincinnati home with his wife and two children.

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Page Scrantom Sprouse Tucker Ford A T T O R N E Y S

&

C O U N S E L L O R S

A T

L A W

Established 1902

Established 1902 W.G. SCRANTOM, JR. J. EDWARD SPROUSE WILLIAM L. TUCKER CHARLES H. FORD, JR. E. LOWRY REID, JR. J. LINDSAY BUILDER, JR. MARCUS B. CALHOUN, JR. FORREST LEE CHAMPION, III STEPHEN G. GUNBY RUSSELL E. HINDS DAVID A. SIEGEL

ELIZABETH W. McBRIDE JAMES C. CLARK, JR. ANGELA M. HICKS JERALD L. WATTS, II ROBERT M. McKENNA KENNETH E. EVANS, JR. THOMAS F. GRISTINA W. FRAY McCORMICK ALAN G. SNIPES JOSEPH A. SILLITTO LINDA D. NGUYEN

TRAVIS C. HARGROVE CHANDLER W. RILEY ADAM R. PEASE APRIL H. HOCUTT RANDOLPH B. JONES ALEX M. SHALISHALI PATRICK A. COLEMAN JULIE E. DORCHAK TYLER C. CASHBAUGH W. M. PAGE (1917-2008) S. DAVIS LANEY (1945-2008)

Synovus Centre 1111 Bay Avenue, Third Floor, Columbus, GA 31901 P.O. Box 1199 Columbus, GA 31902 706-324-0251 631 W. Morse Blvd., Suite 202, Winter Park, FL 32789 321-304-6030 www.psstf.com

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RiverCenter Volunteers

Made up of devoted, conscientious supporters of the arts, the members of RiverCenter Volunteers work tirelessly in support of the many programs, projects, and activities that RiverCenter produces or hosts.

A major portion of the volunteers’ efforts involves ushering at events and assuring that all patrons have an enjoyable experience each time they visit RiverCenter. To receive information about River­Center Volunteers call Heather Watson at 706-256-3652.

Stephanie Adderley Craig DuPriest Robert Little Miriam Short Mary Ann Alexander Eileen Edwards Diane Lyons Sara Silva Nina Alexander Angela Emziah Jane Madayag Louise Simmons Ola Alexander Pat Etemadi Georgia Matheney Barbara Singleton Jean Anderson Linda Fannin Suzanne Maynard Sylvia Singleton Shelley Anderson Connie Farrow Joann McGlaun Rose Slonaker Edie Barber Gwen Ferguson Tom McKibben Billie Smith Sandra Barker Glenn Fleming Katrina McKinney Cheryl Smith Belinda Barron Sherrel Floyd Doug McLeod Donna Smith Paula Bates-Goos Fran Fluker Charlotte McShurley Eva Smith Susan Benson Deborah Ford Cheryl Meyers Judy Smith Carol Bingemann Vickie Francis Dell Miller Gene Snyder Kerri Bingemann Ruth Frick Michael Miller John Soltau Sinnie Borel Dorothy Garza Suellen Morris Tess Soltau Morris Bowman Rosalind Gilbert Catherine Murphy Alice Spengler Gail Brantley Mary Gist Sheila Murphy Louise Spivey Marie Brooks Arnie Goodman Mary Nell Nail Gail Stafford Christina Brown Lindy Goodman Linda Nerness John Stafford Eloisa Brown Lois Griffiths Mary Noles Faye Teel Karen Brown Barbara Grubbs Barbara Nye Gloria Terry Barry Bruch Cenneta Gunn Julius Otero Brenda Thompson Judith Burgess Charles Hancock Ethel Pate Karin Thompson Geraldine Bussey-Guerra Wendy Harding Ethel Patrick Mona Thorington Trinna Bustamante Jennifer Hardy Chyll Perry Marion Tiemeyer Brenda Byrd Sandi Harris Christine Peters Carolyn Tigner Cynthia Cain Shirley Harris Lorene Peterson Helen Turner Ann Carlisle Ann Hart Amanda Presley Connie Ussery Bobbi Carter Theresa Hart Adrien Rameau Ron Ussery Joseph Carter Jim Henley Paulette Rameau Irina Veschi Jeanette Cauthen Cynthia Hightower Kitrina Ray Annice Walker Betty Chambers Mary Hightower Joyce Richburg Katherine Walker Ricky Chambers Claren Hill Sandra Richmond Sophia Walker Vivian Chambers Creola Howard Beverly Riley Jo Weiss Philip Chan Irene Hughes Dianne Robinson Charles Wike Laura Chandler Beverly Jackson Jean Royer Renate Wiley Eva Chappelle Pat Jackson Linda Rumold Carol Williams John Chappelle Priscella Jackson Wanda Rutledge Juanita Williams Levonia Cochran Gloria Johnson Sandy Saling Walter Williams Pat Cole Mirchelle Johnson Gloria Samuel Jane Wilson Latrella Conwell Hattie Jones Dolores Sanchez Margot Wilson Marie Cook Cozette Jordan Beverly Schlitzkus Yulane Wilson Gabriel Couroux Lorrie Kasych Ms. Susie Scott Mildred Wynne Sandra Couroux Ben Kirby Sandra Severt Fred Young Shirley Covington Jan Knowles Sandra Shackelford Frank Zylstra Minnie Dennis Carol Lee Betty Shaw Gayle Zylstra Cynthia Dickson William Lee David Shemwell Pixie Dillard Audrey Lenig Lyn Shemwell Freddie Drake Sandra Lewis Sabrina Shine Linda Duncan Patti Lin Nancy Shipman 46

2015–2016 RiverCenter Board of Trustees Mr. Richard Hare, Chair Mrs. Susan Lawhorne, Vice Chair Dr. William P. Kendall, Secretary Mr. Dave Troxel, Treasurer Mr. Norman S. Easterbrook, Executive Director

Mr. Stephen Butler Dr. Max Burr Mr. Gardiner Garrard Mrs. Dale Goldsmith Mr. Isiah Harper Dr. Ashok Kumar Mrs. Susan Lawhorne Mr. Gene Perkins Mrs. Lucia Reed Mrs. Barbara Rothschild

Mrs. Becky Rumer Mr. Alex Shalishali Mrs. Linda Shinkle Mrs. Judy Thomas Ms. Teresa White Mr. Troy Woods Mr. Jimmy Yancey ex-officio Hon. Teresa Tomlinson

RiverCenter Administration & Staff EXECUTIVE GROUP Mr. Norman S. Easterbrook, Executive Director John Camp, Technical Director Cherwanda Jones, Operations Director Rick McKnight, Community Support Officer Jannina McPherson, Director of Business Affairs (CFO) Lauren Pastwik-Minter, Advancement Director Jim Rutland, Program & Education Director ADVANCEMENT Lauren Pastwik-Minter, Advancement Director Carla Gridley, Marketing & Promotions Administrator Nalisa Capers, Marketing Specialist Kristen Patterson, Advancement Administrative Assistant BUSINESS AFFAIRS Jannina McPherson, Director of Business Affairs (CFO) Saida Wilson, Accounting Coordinator & HR Assistant Kathryn Purdin, Business Affairs Assistant BOX OFFICE April Waldron, Box Office Manager Jennifer Graham, Patron Relations Administrator Kayla Reid, Ticketing Associate Samantha May, Ticketing Associate Gracelyn DePeaza, Ticketing Associate

OPERATIONS Cherwanda Jones, Operations Director Seth Burgamy, Events Manager Veronica Frazier, Facility Coordinator Marion Fletcher, Facility Services Specialist Ishmun Holcomb, Events Assistant Heather Watson, House Manager PRODUCTION John Camp, Technical Director Tammy Whorton, Stage Manager John (J.D.) Davis, Assistant Technical Director & Audio Coordinator Carson “Jake” Waters, Stage Coordinator Clayton Smith, Information Technology Coordinator James Cash, Technical Theater Coordinator Adam Bell, Lighting Coordinator Lance Fraker, Production Associate PROGRAMMING & EDUCATION Jim Rutland, Program & Education Director SECURITY Billy Johnson, Security Lead Robert Wright, Security Officer

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Ticket Information

The RiverCenter box office has tickets available for these series and events: TSYS Broadway on Broad­way, Synovus Center Stage, RiverCenter Music, WOW! Discovery Matinees, and Spotlight Spe­cials. Tickets also are available for programs presented by the Columbus Symphony Orches­tra, CSU Schwob School of Music, and various third-party presen­ters. The box office accepts cash, and all major credit cards: VISA, Master­Card, American Ex­press and Discover.

TICKETS AT THE DOOR—Tickets to events that are not sold-out may be purchased at the box office beginning one hour before the start of the event.

SEASON TICKETS—Season tickets may be purchased at the box office by telephone (706-2563632) or with order forms in RiverCenter publi­ cations and mailings.

CUSTOM COMBOS—Tickets to single RiverCenter events may be pur­chased at a savings as Custom Combos. A Custom Combo con­sists of at least one ticket to each of at least three events per patron.

SINGLE TICKETS—Single tickets to individual RiverCenter events may be purchased without a service charge at the box office at the corner of Broadway and Tenth Street. For a service charge, tickets also may be purchased online at tickets. com.

GROUP DISCOUNTS—Most RiverCenter events offer discounts on indi­vidual tickets sold to groups of 10 or more. For information call 706256-3612.

SPECIAL DISCOUNTS—Patrons must come to the box office to take ad­vantage of most special promotions and dis­counts. Mil­i­tary, Public Service, Educator and Senior discounts are avail­ able on single ticket purchases to most events.

Student Rush prices are available all day on the day-of-show at most events. Patrons using vouchers or gift certificates should note dead­ lines and restrictions that apply. No refunds are given for ticket price variances or special offers.

Important Information emer­gency phone number is 706-256-3610.

BOX OFFICE & PARKING BOX OFFICE—The box office at RiverCenter, located at the corner of Broadway and Tenth Street, is open Monday–Friday, 10:00 am to 5:30 pm. It opens one hour before each performance and remains open through inter­mission. The box office is not open on federal holdays unless there is an event that day.

PARKING—Parking is available in the parking garage directly in front of RiverCenter, 900 Broad­way. A fee of $2.00-$5.00 is charged after 6:00pm for some events. Parking for those with disabilities is avail­able in front of RiverCenter’s main entrance. Park­ing also is available without charge on the streets around RiverCenter. The garage is managed by the City of Columbus, not RiverCenter.

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Please pro­vide this number and your seat location to your personal contacts or child care providers.

HOUSE RULES

NO BABES IN ARMS—Everyone attending a ticketed event, including all children regardless of age, must have a ticket.

BACKSTAGE AREAS RESTRICTED—For safety and security and out of respect for performers’ privacy, patrons are not given access to backstage areas be­fore or after performances.

HOUSE OPENING AND LATE ARRIVALS— RiverCenter’s Grand Lobby opens one hour prior to events and seating begins approximately 30 min­utes before curtain. At the discretion of house man­agement and in compliance with artists’ con­ tractual agreements, latecomers IN CASE OF EMERGENCY will be seated at appropri­ate intervals during FIRE NOTICE—Exits are indicated by red “exit” events. Latecomers may be seated near the signs. In case of fire or other emergency, please entry doors out of cour­tesy to performers and do not run, but walk to the exit nearest to your other patrons. seat.

PROHIBITED EQUIPMENT—Please be courteEMERGENCY NOTIFICATIONS—The RiverCenter ous and turn off devices such as cell phones and

pagers. Photography and record­ing is prohibited RENT A VENUE in the theatres.

Bill Heard Theatre, Studio Theatre, and/or Legacy SMOKE-FREE POLICY—RiverCenter is a smoke- Hall—Call 706-256-3607 regarding availability free facility. Smoking is permitted in outdoor ar- of specific dates on the RiverCenter master calendar. Complete rental fees and policies can be eas only. Thank you for your cooperation. found on rivercenter.org.

SPECIAL SERVICES

PATRONS ROOM—The Patrons Room on the BAR SERVICE—Bar service is available in the mezzanine level may be reserved for private funcGrand Lobby prior to the start and during inter­ tions by RiverCenter Members and Partners. For missions of most RiverCenter events. Food and information call Jim Rutland at 706-256-3607. drink is not permit­ted in the theatres.

ELEVATOR—A patron elevator is located between ILLGES PLAZA—Event and green space on 10th the entrances to Bill Heard Theatre and Studio The- St. on North Side of Center may be reserved for special events. Call 706-256-3607. atre.

WHEELCHAIRS—Wheelchairs are available for IMPORTANT NUMBERS pa­trons needing help getting to or from seating. Emergency ������������������������������������706-256-3610 Ushers will provide assistance.

Event Information ������������������������706-256-3612 AUDIO AIDS—Subject to availability, infrared lis­ Ticket Information �������������������������888-332-5200 tening devices are available for hearing impaired patrons. They may be obtained free of charge by Season Ticket Purchases ��������������� 706-256-3632 Group Sales ����������������������������������706-256-3612 presenting personal identification to ushers.

LOST AND FOUND—Lost items should be given Rentals ������������������������������������������706-256-3607 to an usher for storing with RiverCenter Security. Volunteer Office ���������������������������� 706-256-3652 These items are retained by Security for sixty Development ��������������������������������706-256-3653 days then donated to Valley Rescue Mission, Inc. Own­ers may claim lost items by calling 706-256- Marketing �������������������������������������706-256-3657 Advertising �����������������������������������706-256-3653 3610.

ArtsReach ��������������������������������������706-256-3607

Applause, the program guide for RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, is published periodically by RiverCenter, Inc. and distributed to patrons of season shows.

Graphic design and typography by Nalisa Capers. Each issue includes program and performer information for a group of contemporaneous performances and general information about RiverCenter program­ming, facilities, donor members, sponsors and staff. Cover art by Nalisa Capers.

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Performance in memory of Geraldine Spence SATURDAY, APRIL 30, 2016

at 706.256.3653 or development@rivercenter.org

Aflac is proud to be the Season Sponsor of RiverCenter for the Performing Arts.

For more information about Aflac, visit aflac.com.

One Day PaySM available for most properly-documented, individual claims submitted online through Aflac SmartClaim速 by 3 p.m. ET. Aflac SmartClaim速 not available on the following: Short-Term Disability (excluding Accident and Sickness Riders), Life, Vision, Dental, Medicare Supplement, Long-Term Care/Home Health Care, Aflac Plus Rider and Group policies. Processing time is based on business days after all required documentation needed to render a decision is received and no further validation and/or research is required. Individual Company Statistic, 2015. Individual coverage is underwritten by American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus. Worldwide Headquarters | 1932 Wynnton Road | Columbus, Georgia 31999.

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