Welcome to RiverCenter! It is such a pleasure to introduce our 2022-2023 season. Comedy, tragedy, dance, rock and roll, silent pictures, intrigue, acrobatics, cirque extravaganza, and more all await our audiences.
This season we continue with our tour origination projects. The national tours of Jesus Christ Superstar, A Magical Cirque Christmas, Pride and Prejudice, and Julius Caesar will originate from right here in Columbus. These projects each bring dozens of theatre professionals from around the country to our community for several days or weeks to put the final touches on these touring productions. The community directly gains through new economic activity while RiverCenter audiences will experience the thrill and excitement of seeing the very first full performance of these outstanding touring productions.
Right on the tails of our first silent picture Safety Last with The Wave—the fun continues when Ron Carter returns to accompany the 1925 silent picture The Phantom of the Opera followed by From Broadway to Hollywood and A Salute to the American Songbook with Dr. Joseph Golden, both featuring The Wave. As another tradition builds with The Wave, our Gingerbread Village returns and will be open on December 3, when we will have Christmas With The Wave in The Village!
This season, we offer a grouping of three productions that are ideal for families: A Magical Cirque Christmas, The Peking Acrobats featuring the Shanghai Circus, and Madagascar the Musical. When purchased as a package – enjoy a generous discount for adult tickets and then take advantage of the special children’s prices for some very affordable, professional entertainment that the entire family will enjoy. Families can enjoy the free performance of the United States Army Field Band and Soldiers’ Chorus. This is a great introduction to the RiverCenter experience with the very best touring musical ensemble of the United States Armed Forces.
Audience favorites RAIN—A Tribute to the Beatles and Riverdance return with entirely new productions – Riverdance with new staging and music for its 25th anniversary tour and RAIN adds music from Abbey and the Rooftop Concert. What a great opportunity to relive and share your favorite RiverCenter experiences with friends and family!
We have not forgotten about our school-age audiences with some outstanding experiences. Click, Clack, Moo and Junie B.’s Essential Survival Guide to School for schooltime matinees for younger grades and the Aquila Theatre production of Julius Caesar for the older grades. Step Afrika! will feature five days of free streaming content available to anyone who wants to learn more about this exhilarating tradition in dance. There is so much more to experience at RiverCenter, and I hope that you will take advantage of as much of our programming as you are able. Most importantly, thank you for your continuing support of RiverCenter. Our audiences are why we do what we do and we are forever grateful to you for being part of the RiverCenter experience! See you at the theatre.
Norman S. Easterbrook, Executive Director
Thank you to our Curtain Raisers! As a 501(c)3 organization, RiverCenter depends on the generosity of corporations to help present world-class artists and offer varied educational opportunities. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts offers one-of-a-kind, tailor-made opportunities for businesses and organizations to invest in the arts and arts education, while increasing visibility as a philanthropic leader in the Columbus region. Performances at RiverCenter would not be possible without the goodwill of our sponsors. A wide range of sponsorship opportunities are available, including theatre productions, events, special projects, education and outreach initiatives and can be customized to meet sponsors’ specific interests and needs, beginning at $1,500.
We would love to hear from you and discuss becoming a partner with RiverCenter. Please contact our Director of Development, Denise Dowdy at development@rivercenter.org or call 706-256-3653.
Our sponsors help us impact and transform thousands of lives through the arts and education. Based on donations as of October 18, 2022:
RiverCenter for the Performing Arts would not be possible without the help and generosity of our wonderful community. We are so thankful for all of the donors and members who have helped us grow and bring amazing talent to our region for the past 20 years!
We greatly appreciate each gift given in support of RiverCenter and have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this listing, which was based on donations made as of October 18, 2022. Please notify the Development Office of any inaccuracies or omissions by contacting us at 706.256.3653 or development@rivercenter.org. We regret any errors.
The Marquee Society is comprised of donors who invest a minimum of $1,000, each season, to the mission of RiverCenter. Members receive distinct benefits to include an annual dinner, members-only events, and advance notification before the general public to purchase single tickets to shows added to the season.
Marquee Society members, and their guests, have exclusive admission into the Marquee lounge, pre-show and at intermission, for a private bar and complimentary hors d’oeuvres created by Valley Hospitality.
Every aspect of the Marquee Society emblem has a special meaning. The gears represent our mill history and the collaboration of the Columbus Challenge. The bee in its hive is a powerful symbol of the workers who built the city and RiverCenter. The blue represents our connection to the mighty river and the creative flow of the arts. The gold represents your annual investment and commitment to quality. Each Marquee Society member embodies the spirit and sentiment of this design.
To join the Marquee Society, visit rivercenter.org, email development@rivercenter.org, or call 706.256.3653.
DIRECTOR
Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Butler
CURTAIN CALL Steeplechase at Callaway Gardens
Gardiner and Nora Garrard
James G. and Kathryn A. Hillenbrand
Dr. David Levine
Mr. and Mrs. John C. Martin, II Al and Betsy Ramsay
Mr. and Mrs. Roderick C. Hunter Akitoshi and Etsuko Kan
Mr. and Mrs. Jack J. Pease, III David and Linell Pringle
Dr. and Mrs. Richard Robbins Stephen M. Sawyer
Daniel and Kathelen Amos
Fred and Catalina Aranas
Family Foundation Maria Luisa Aranas Ms. Betty L. Auten
Mrs. Sam Rawls
Mrs. Clifford J. Swift, III Adrianne and Wade Wallace Mrs. Janice M. Watson
Mr. and Mrs. William P. Scarbrough
Mr. and Mrs. Brad Turner
Rick and Jan Ussery
Mr. and Mrs. M. Troy Woods James D. and Ruth B. Yancey
Creek Stand Partners, LP
Mr. and Mrs. Norman S. Easterbrook
Mr. and Mrs. Thad Estes Suzanne and Joel Fine Loretta and Tom Flowers
Bernard and Sylvia Witt Foundation Susan and Carter Berry Bernice and Mansfield Bias Mrs. Doris Black
Mr. and Mrs. James H. Blanchard Deborah E. Bordelon
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Y. Bradley Mrs. Charles W. Burgin Mrs. Forrest L. Champion, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Cecil Cheves
Dr. and Mrs. Mark R. Fortson Cindy and Spencer Garrard
GB & Charlotte A. Saunders Foundation Inc
Dr. and Mrs. Jerry Goldsmith
Mrs. Richard Hallock Helen J. Hobbs
Dr. William P. Kendall
Charlyn Kerr
Mr. and Mrs. John T. Laney, III
Elaine and John Laughbaum
Dr. and Mrs. Thomas W. Lawhorne, Jr. Hank and Mary Lewis Florence Lipham
Ben and Annelle McCosh Chris and Wendy Miller Jimmy and Barbara Motos John and Sam Newton Edwin and Pam Page Mr. and Mrs. Curtis J. Perry
R
The
Anonymous
Len
The
Mr.
Mr. and Mrs. Joel O. Wooten
Peggy and Robin Batastini Regina Satlof and Neil Block Bob and Linda Carter Adrian Chester-Greater Beallwood Baptist Church Danny and Sandra Dawson Mr. and Mrs. James E. Gates Ed and Lana Helton
Mrs. Stephen C. Hunter Pam and Charlie Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Justin Krieg Mrs. Donald M. Leebern, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Anthony D. Link Mrs. Kathy J. Riley Edith H. Satterwhite
Dr. Angela Sims and John Sims Mr. and Mrs. Charles T. Staples
Anonymous Don and Bobbie Dakin Christy and Dail Fields Rem Houser
Ann and Lowry Reid Joyce and Henry Schwob Mr. and Mrs. Perrin Trotter Margaret G. Zollo
Lucas Construction and Design Mr. and Mrs. Jefferson C. Reed Honorable and Mrs. William C. Rumer Dr. Carole Rutland and COL (RET) Robert D. OfferJim Alfred and Susan Rinaldi
Renee Beam
Elizabeth A. Bloodgood
Patricia A. Boutton Jim and Iveta Boyanchek Dr. and Mrs. Philip L. Brewer Frank and Jo Ann Brown Jim and Nancy Buntin Mike and Kathy Burns Butch and Eva Chappelle Kelly and Martha Dimon
Henry Farmer
Brett Gant
Ms. Geraldine W. Goodman Steve and Mary Hall Ken Hamill Linda and Seth Harp Mr. and Mrs. David Hay Dr. and Mrs. Steven Henslee Betty B. Hooks Mike and Patty Kelley
Jo Ann and Ernie Kirk Marv and Vicki Lieberman
Dr. and Mrs. Leland McCluskey Ryan and Isa Meeks
Dr. Barbara and Leon Minsky Shirley B. Moon Wayne and Harriet Moultrie Dick and Dixie Olson
Dr. and Mrs. Andrew W. Pippas Marjorie T. Richardson
Sally Rotunno
Rabbi Beth Schwartz
Mr. and Mrs. James Kimbrough Sheek, IV Guy Ashton and Marianne Smith Dr. and Mrs. John R. Stephenson Mary Stewart Montgomery E. Thorne Lois M. Tryon Dr. Thomas A. and Sherry F. Wade
CH (COL) and Mrs. Thomas Waynick, USA, Ret. Mark and Andi Snow-Weaver Jim and Ann White Dave and Jane Wilson Mr. and Mrs. Richard Wilson
In memory of Dr. Davis Ronald Watson, Sr. Mrs. Janice M. Watson
In memory of Lyle Meeks Ryan and Isa Meeks
In honor of Chris Weaver Mark and Andi Snow-Weaver
On behalf of The Shavers Family Shirley Shavers
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Y. Bradley Cindy and Spencer Garrard
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Illges Norman Mrs. Clifford J. Swift, III
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this list; however, it is possible that errors have been made. If so, please accept our sincere apologies and bring them to the attention of our Development Office, development@rivercenter.org or 706.256.3653.
Ticket sales meet only a fraction of RiverCenter’s operating expenses. The balance is covered by members, donations, and sponsorships. The generosity of many individuals and corporations enables RiverCenter to bring nationally touring Broadway shows and world class artists to the Columbus region. For a full list of benefits, visit rivercenter.org.
» Increases the exceptional programming offered
» Maintains modern facilities that are home to the Columbus Symphony Orchestra Columbus Ballet, Schwob School of Music and community events like the annual Miss Georgia Competition, the Maneuver Center of Excellence Band’s holiday concert, the Georgia Thespian Conference and many more
» Impacts and inspires diverse communities by providing access to the arts
» Complimentary donors-only events
» Complimentary beverage coupons
» Recognition on RiverCenter website
» Distinguished in Applause Program
» Exclusive access to box office liaison
» Courtesy backstage tour of theatre with the Executive Director (by appointment only)
» Ticket insurance for lost or stolen tickets
» Early notice of new season announcement
» Access to presales for single tickets or season subscriptions
» Ticket exchange privileges (within the same Broadway show)
*benefits vary based on level of membership *benefits subject to availability or deadline, restrictions may apply
RiverCenter’s Capstone Society, founded by the late Wendell Lewis, is our planned giving program. For 20 years, families have enjoyed programs and productions at RiverCenter. Through a planned gift, members of the Capstone Society are creating a lasting legacy for future generations so they can enjoy the same magical experience of the theatre.
When you include RiverCenter in your estate plans, you will be included into our Capstone Society of donors, and we are pleased to recognize your generosity. If you would like to let us know about your planned gift, or to learn how your planned gift can help RiverCenter in its artistic and educational mission, please contact Denise D. Dowdy, our Director of Development, 706.256.3653 or development@rivercenter.org.
Tribute pays homage to the African American step show. The work combines the distinct stepping styles from different fraternities and sororities and blends them together to showcase the incredible variety of stepping. Tribute includes all the exciting elements of the step show — the use of props, ripples and floor work, creative formations and audience participation. (Choreographed by Jakari Sherman)
Ndlamu is a traditional dance of the Zulu people and for more than 25 years, Step Afrika! has studied the dance form through the Company’s long-standing partnership with the Soweto Dance Theater. Step Afrika! makes this Ndlamu uniquely its own featuring solos created by each dancer as well as the addition of contemporary movement. (Choreographed by Jackie Semela)
Isicathulo or “the gumboot dance” is a tradition created by South African workers who labored in the oppressive mining industry of then-apartheid South Africa. Isolated from their families for long periods, the miners transformed their rubber boots into percussive instruments to not only entertain but to share secret messages with each other. Isicathulo has become one of the most popular dance forms in South Africa and has striking similarities to the African-American tradition of stepping. (Choreographed by Jackie Semela)
Traditionally, stepping is performed by groups, big and small. In this Solo, Step Afrika! investigates the form at its most intimate level.
Chicago finds the rhythm in everyday situations. It is a percussive symphony using body percussion and up to 5 complex polyrhythms performed simultaneously in order to narrate a percussive dance “story.” Inspired by a summer spent in the Windy City, this ground-breaking work transforms the 100-year old, folkloric tradition of stepping into contemporary performance art. (Choreographed by Jakari Sherman)
Lamar Lovelace Executive Director
Mfoniso Akpan Artistic Director
Conrad R. Kelly II Assistant Artistic Director Kristen L. Taylor Company and Communications Manager
Ariel Dykes
Kamala Hargrove
Kayshon Hawkins
Akievia Hickman
Jabari Jones
Conrad Kelly II Isaiah O’Connor
Na’imah Ray
Valencia Odeyka Emonni Springer
Ericka Still
Artis
Olds Director of Arts Education and Community ProgramMisha Michel
Arts Education and Production Assistant BRIAN WILLIAMS Founder & Executive DirectorBrie Turner
Joseph Vasquez
Pelham Warner
Robert Warnsley
Founded in 1994 by C. Brian Williams, Step Afrika! is the first professional company dedicated to the tradition of stepping—a polyrhythmic, percussive dance form that uses the body as an instrument. Under Mr. Williams’ leadership, stepping has evolved into one of America’s cultural exports, touring more than 50 countries across the globe. Step Afrika! is one of the top 10 African American dance companies in the world. Step Afrika! promotes stepping as a contemporary dance genre through critically acclaimed performances and arts education programs. Creatively engaging audiences in this nascent art form, the Company creates full-length productions that expand on stepping’s unique American history.
Step Afrika! blends percussive dance styles practiced by historically African American fraternities and sororities; traditional West and Southern African dances; and an array of contemporary dance and art forms into a cohesive, compelling artistic experience. Performances are much more than dance shows; they integrate songs, storytelling, humor and audience participation. The blend of technique, agility, and pure energy makes each performance unique and leaves the audience with their hearts pounding.
The Company reaches tens of thousands of Americans each year through a 50-city tour of colleges and theatres and performs globally as Washington, DC’s one and only Cultural Ambassador. Step Afrika! has earned Mayor’s Arts Awards for Outstanding Contribution to Arts Education (2005); Innovation in the Arts (2008); and Excellence in an Artistic Discipline (2012); and performed at the White House for President Barack Obama and the First Lady.
Critically Acclaimed works, such as The Migration: Reflections on Jacob Lawrence and Drumfolk , tour to major U.S. cities. Step Afrika! is prominently featured at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History & Culture with an interactive exhibit on the art form of stepping.
To learn more, visit www.stepafrika.org.
C.ARIEL DYKES is from Gainesville, Florida. She received an Associate of Arts Degree in Musical Theatre from Santa Fe College and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance from the University of Florida. She has trained in traditional and post-modern dance, jazz, voice, and acting and worked with such artists as Ailey Dancers Nathaniel Hunt and Samantha Barriento, Tony Award-winner Scott Coulter, and world-renowned choreographer and performer Galen Hooks. She was introduced to stepping and strolling as a member of the Iota Lambda Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., where she choreographed step routines for the chapter and UF’s National Panhellenic Council.
KAMALA HARGROVE is a native of the Bronx, New York. She started dancing at the age of four. She has trained in ballet, Horton, Graham, West African, jazz, and hip hop at the Alvin Ailey School and Dance Theater of Harlem. She received her BA in Mathematics and Theater and Dance with a concentration in Dance and Choreography at Trinity College. Kamala has performed with artists including Estelle, Mr. Vegas, Wizkid, and French Montana and served as a guest artist on tour with Step Afrika! Kamala also worked as a Teaching Artist in New York City, teaching elementary, middle, and high school students.
KAYSHON HAWKINS is a dancer, choreographer, and teacher from Henderson, North Carolina. He has been teaching dance for four years, teaching all ages, specializing in hip-hop. He taught at The Pointe! Dance Studio in Greensboro, NC, for two years. Kayshon graduated from Fayetteville State University with a Bachelor's degree in Theatre in 2018, with a profession in audio and sound.
AKIEVIA HICKMAN is a native of Tallahassee, Florida. She received an MBA from Florida A&M University. She is a member of the Beta Alpha chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Trained in hip-hop and jazz, Akievia also studied modern contemporary dance under the direction of Shepiro Hardemon as a member of Mahogany Dance Theatre. She created her own dance company, Killer Heels, which has helped build her into a great choreographer. Akievia was introduced to stepping in high school when she joined the Code Red Step team and furthered her experience in college as a member of the Rampage Step Team.
JABARI JONES is a native of Detroit, Michigan. He studied English at Morehouse College. He started dancing at the age of 8 — inspired by the performances of recording artist Usher. He has performed with artists including Aloe Blacc, Detroit 1-8-7, Elijah J, Jacob Latimore, Missy Elliot, Rick Ross, Quality Control (Lil Baby, Layton Greene), the City Girls and the One Music Festival. Highlights from his performance credits include: the
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, an actor in the productions of College Boyfriends and Mooz-Lum, principal stepper and pledgee on BET+ show Bigger, actor in “American Soul”, featured in Krogers HBCU homecoming commercial and as a guest fraternity dancer/player on the television show, Wild N Out. He joined Step Afrika! in 2017. He is a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.
CONRAD R. KELLY II, Assistant Artistic Director of Step Afrika!, is a native of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where he attended Dillard High School of the Visual and Performing Arts. While attending Florida A & M University, he became a member of the Marching 100 and the Strikers. After college, Conrad became a soloist for The Rolle Project in Las Vegas as well as a dance instructor with Studio 305, where he regularly taught classes in hip-hop, contemporary and jazz dance. Conrad plans to use his performing and teaching experiences to open a mentoring program for young male dancers.
ISAIAH O’CONNOR is from Miami, Florida. He received a BS in Biology from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. In college, Isaiah joined the Strikers Dance Troupe under the direction of Shepiro Hardemon and studied hip-hop, modern, and urban soul. He aspires to use his talents to learn about performing while also giving back to those who helped him.
NA’IMAH RAY is a native New Yorker. She received a BFA in Dance from Montclair State University. She learned from dancer Dwana Smallwood throughout her youth. Na’imah was first introduced to stepping in middle school. She joined a step team at age 11 and began competing around New York City. She trained with artists Earl Mosley, Christian Von Howard, and Beatrice Capote in college. In between semesters, she attended training programs held at The Ailey School and Earl Mosley Institute of the Arts, where she performed works by Antonio Brown, Nathaniel Hunt, and Levi Marsman. Na’imah performed as a Centennial Stepper with her sorority, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated, at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
ANESIA SANDIFER is a native of Augusta, Georgia. She attended the University of Georgia where she received a BBA in Finance and a minor in Dance. She also became a member of the Zeta Psi chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc, where she served as Step Master. Anesia was a full scholarship recipient at the 2015 Debbie Allen Summer Intensive in Los Angeles, CA. She has performed on ESPN for the Special Olympics 2015 World Games as a dancer for O.A.R. and Siedah Garrett.
VALENCIA ODEYKA EMONNI SPRINGER is a native of Brooklyn, New York. Valencia received a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and
served as the first “Stand Queen” (captain) with the Ambassadors of Sound Marching band at Virginia Union University. She studied ballet, jazz, African, hip-hop, and contemporary dance at Restoration Youth Arts Academy and has performed with Forces of Nature and Dance Africa (Brooklyn). Valencia is a proud member of the Nu Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. and the Eta Psi Chapter of Tau Beta Sigma National Honorary band sorority.
ERICKA STILL is a native of St. Petersburg, Florida. She has been dancing since a young age at SADA under the direction of Paulette W. Johnson, where she trained in tap, ballet, jazz, African, and contemporary dance. Ericka discovered the art form of stepping in middle school as a part of the AKAdemy Exquisite Gems program. Ericka received a BA in Health Science: Pre-Occupational Therapy and she minored in Rehabilitation Management from Florida A&M University. Throughout college, she studied under the direction of Shepiro Hardemon as a member and Co-Assistant Artistic Director of Mahogany Dance Theatre.
BRIE TURNER is from Lithonia, Georgia. She graduated magna cum laude from Howard University with a BA in Strategic, Legal, and Management Communications. Brie began her formal dance training in 2015, which prepared her to serve as the co-captain (2020-2021) and captain (2021-2022) of the Howard University Bisonettes
Dance Ensemble. She is a spring 2020 initiate of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated, Quintessential Alpha chapter, where she served as chapter president and stroll mistress.
JOSEPH VASQUEZ grew up in Guttenberg, New Jersey. Joseph received a BA in Exercise Science from Rutgers University in New Brunswick. In college, he performed with the Bachata Performance Team, where he choreographed and led the team for four years. Joseph is a member of Lambda Sigma Upsilon Latino Fraternity Incorporated and the stroll team, The Revels, led by Francisco Pozo and Carlos Zapata.
PELHAM WARNER, is from The Bronx, New York and attended Dutchess Community College. As a teenager, Pelham was a member of The Players Club Steppers. He then found his home stepping with the Harlem, New York-based group, The Order of the Feather Fraternity, where he served as the team’s Step Master and captain for five years. He is blessed to have the opportunity to continue his passion for stepping, performing, and teaching with Step Afrika!
ROBERT WARNSLEY is a native of Chicago, Illinois. He graduated from Illinois State University with a BS in Information Technology. Robert learned to step and stroll as a member of the Eta Tau chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. In addition to stepping, he practices hip-hop and Chicago-style footworking.
MFONISO AKPAN, Artistic Director of Step Afrika!, has trained extensively in tap, ballet, jazz, modern, African dance and step. While attending the State University of New York at Stony Brook, she majored in biochemistry and cultivated her stepping skills as a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Mfon began her training at the Bernice Johnson Cultural Arts Center and has performed at Carnegie Hall, Avery Fisher Hall, the Apollo Theater, the Brooklyn Academy of Music and Lincoln Center. Mfon toured with the off-Broadway show "Hoofin' 2 Hittin," where she was a featured stepper and dancer.
C. BRIAN WILLIAMS, Founder and Executive Producer of Step Afrika!, is a native of Houston, Texas and graduate of Howard University. He is a National Heritage Fellow as designated by the National Endowment of the Arts, the nation's highest honor in the folk and traditional arts. Brian first learned to step as a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. — Beta Chapter, in the Spring of 1989. While living in Southern Africa, he began to research the percussive dance tradition of stepping, exploring the many sides of this exciting, yet under-recognized American art form and founded Step Afrika! in 1994. Williams has performed, lectured and taught in Europe, Central
and South America, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, the Caribbean and throughout the United States. He is the founder of the monumental Step Afrika! International Cultural Festival in Johannesburg, South Africa. Through Williams’ leadership, stepping has evolved into one of America’s newest cultural exports and inspired the designation of Step Afrika! as Washington, D.C.’s official “Cultural Ambassador.” Williams has been cited as a “civic/community visionary” by NV Magazine, a “nation builder” by the National Black Caucus of State Legislators and a “minority business leader” by the Washington Business Journal. He is the recipient of numerous Artist Fellowships; the Distinguished Arts Award from the Coalition for African-Americans in the Performing Arts; the Pola Nirenska Award for Contemporary Achievement in Dance. He is also featured in Soulstepping, the first book to document the history of stepping. He also earned the 2008 Mayor’s Art Award for Innovation in the Arts and has led the company to multiple Metro DC Dance Awards for “Outstanding New Work,” “Excellence in Stage Design/ Multimedia” and “Outstanding Group Performance.” In 2018, Williams received the Mayor’s Arts Award for Visionary Leadership from the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities.
Inspired by the TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX MOTION PICTURES by special arrangement with BUENA VISTA THEATRICAL From the play by MARCELLE MAURETTE as adapted by GUY BOLTON
VERONICA STERN WILLEM BUTLER BEN EDQUIST GERRI WEAGRAFF BRYAN SEASTROM MADELINE RAUBE
THALIA ATALLAH ZACHARY BIGELOW WILLIAM AARON BISHOP LOUIS BROGNA GABRIELLA BURKE LEELA CHOPRA AMIN FUSON REBECCA HARTMAN KAITLYN JACKSON BROOKLYN LIBAO ALEC LLOYD VICTORIA MADDEN BILLY McGAVIN DOMINIC PAGLIARO LUKE RANDS LATHAN A. ROBERTS ALEXANDRYA SALAZAR AMY SMITH SARAH STATLER Scenic Design Costume Design Lighting Design Sound Design ALEXANDER DODGE LINDA CHO DONALD HOLDER PETER HYLENSKI
Projection Design Hair & Wig Design Makeup Design Casting AARON RHYNE CHARLES G. LAPOINTE JOE DULUDE II JASON STYRES
Orchestrations Vocal Arrangements Dance Arrangements Music Supervisor DOUG BESTERMAN STEPHEN FLAHERTY DAVID CHASE TOM MURRAY Music Director Music Coordinator Tour Booking Marketing & Publicity Direction Interactive Marketing JEREMY ROBIN LYONS JOHN MEZZIO THE BOOKING GROUP BOND THEATRICAL ANDY DRACHENBERG MEREDITH BLAIR
Company Manager Production Management General Management Production Stage Manager MACKENZIE DOUGLAS NETWORKS PRESENTATIONS GENTRY & ASSOCIATES KATERYNA TURKALO SHELBY STARK GREGORY VANDER PLOEG
Executive Producer SETH WENIG
Commissioned by DMITRY BOGACHEV Director Choreographer SARAH HARTMANN BILL BURNS
Original Choreographer PEGGY HICKEY
Original Director DARKO TRESNJAK
Originally produced on Broadway at the Broadhurst Theatre on April 24, 2017 by Stage Entertainment, Bill Taylor, Tom Kirdahy and Hunter Arnold.
Little Anastasia (at certain performances)
LEELA CHOPRA, ALEXANDRYA SALAZAR Dowager Empress GERRI WEAGRAFF Tsarina Alexandra ....................................................................................................
KAITLYN JACKSON Tsar Nicholas II AMIN FUSON Young Anastasia BROOKLYN LIBAO Maria Romanov ...................................................................................................... VICTORIA MADDEN Olga Romanov ......................................................................................................... GABRIELLA BURKE Tatiana Romanov THALIA ATALLAH Alexei Romanov (at certain performances)
LEELA CHOPRA, ALEXANDRYA SALAZAR
Gleb ..................................................................................................................................... BEN EDQUIST Dmitry WILLEM BUTLER Vlad BRYAN SEASTROM Anya ............................................................................................................................ VERONICA STERN
Paulina........................................................................................................................ BROOKLYN LIBAO
Marfa VICTORIA MADDEN Dunya THALIA ATALLAH Count Ipolitov ....................................................................................................................... AMIN FUSON Gorlinsky BILLY McGAVIN Countess Lily MADELINE RAUBE Count Leopold ................................................................................................................BILLY McGAVIN Sergei LOUIS BROGNA Count Gregory AMIN FUSON Countess Gregory.......................................................................................................... SARAH STATLER Odette in Swan Lake ................................................................................................ GABRIELLA BURKE Prince Siegfried in Swan Lake LATHAN A. ROBERTS Von Rothbart in Swan Lake LUKE RANDS Suitors, Soldiers, Comrades, Ghosts, Parisians, Russian Aristocrats in Exile, Waiters, Reporters, Cygnets in Swan Lake THALIA ATALLAH, ZACHARY BIGELOW, WILLIAM AARON BISHOP, LOUIS BROGNA, GABRIELLA BURKE, AMIN FUSON, KAITLYN JACKSON, BROOKLYN LIBAO, BILLY McGAVIN, VICTORIA MADDEN, LUKE RANDS, MADELINE RAUBE, LATHAN A. ROBERTS, SARAH STATLER
Understudies never substitute for the listed performers unless a specific announcement is made at the time of the appearance. For Anya—THALIA ATALLAH, REBECCA HARTMAN, VICTORIA MADDEN; for Dmitry—WILLIAM AARON BISHOP, ZACHARY BIGELOW; for Vlad—BILLY McGAVIN, DOMINIC PAGLIARO; for Dowager Empress— KAITLYN JACKSON, SARAH STATLER; for Countess Lily— REBECCA HARTMAN, KAITLYN JACKSON; for Gleb—WILLIAM AARON BISHOP, AMIN FUSON; for Odette—VICTORIA MADDEN, AMY SMITH; for Prince Siegfried LUKE RANDS, ZACHARY BIGELOW, ALEC LLOYD; for Von Rothbart—LOUIS BROGNA, ALEC LLOYD.
REBECCA HARTMAN, ALEC LLOYD, AMY SMITH, DOMINIC PAGLIARO
Co-Dance Captain: ALEC LLOYD, VICTORIA MADDEN
Fight Captain: BILLY MCGAVIN
The use of any recording device, either audio or video, and the taking of photographs, either with or without flash, is strictly prohibited. Please turn off all electronic devices such as cellular phones, beepers and watches prior to the beginning of the performance.
Willem Butler
Veronica Stern
Ben Edquist
Bryan Seastrom
Gerri Weagraff
Madeline Raube
Thalia Atallah
Zachary Bigelow
William Aaron Bishop Louis Brogna
Alexandrya Salazar
Amy Smith
Sarah Statler
Dominic Pagliaro
Gabriella Burke
Leela Chopra
Rebecca Hartman
Kaitlyn Jackson Amin Fuson
Brooklyn Libao
Alec Lloyd Victoria Madden Luke Rands
Lathan A. Roberts
Setting: Saint Petersburg, 1906, 1917 & 1927
Prologue: “Once Upon a December” Dowager Empress and Little Anastasia “The Last Dance of the Romanovs” Ensemble “A Rumor in St. Petersburg” ........................................................................... Dmitry, Vlad and Ensemble “In My Dreams” .................................................................................................................................. Anya “The Rumors Never End” Gleb and Ensemble “Learn to Do It” Vlad, Anya and Dmitry “The Neva Flows” ................................................................................................................ Gleb and Anya “The Neva Flows” (Reprise) Men “My Petersburg” Dmitry and Anya “Once Upon a December” ............................................................................................Anya and Ensemble “A Secret She Kept” ............................................................................................................................ Anya “Stay, I Pray You” Count Ipolitov, Anya, Dmitry, Vlad and Ensemble “We’ll Go From There” ........................................................................ Vlad, Anya, Dmitry and Ensemble “Traveling Sequence” ..................................................................Gleb, Gorlinsky, Anya, Dmitry and Vlad “Still” Gleb “Journey to the Past” Anya
ACT II
Setting: Paris, 1927 “Paris Holds the Key (To Your Heart)” Vlad, Dmitry, Anya and Ensemble “Close the Door”..............................................................................................................Dowager Empress “Land of Yesterday” Countess Lily and Ensemble “The Countess and the Common Man” Vlad and Countess Lily “Land of Yesterday” (Reprise).............................................................................................................. Gleb “A Nightmare” ................................................................................... Romanov Children, Tsar and Tsarina “In a Crowd of Thousands” Dmitry and Anya “Meant to Be” ....................................................................................................................................... Vlad “Quartet at the Ballet” ........................................... Anya, Dmitry, Dowager Empress, Gleb and Ensemble “Everything to Win” Dmitry “Once Upon a December” (Reprise) Anya and Dowager Empress “The Press Conference” ........................................................................ Countess Lily, Vlad and Ensemble “Everything to Win” (Reprise) Anya “Still”/“The Neva Flows” (Reprise) Gleb, Anya and Ensemble Finale............................................................................................................... Anya, Dmitry and Company
ORCHESTRA
Music Coordinator: JOHN MEZZIO Electronic Music Design: STRANGE CRANIUM Original Keyboard Programming: RANDY COHEN, RANDY COHEN KEYBOARDS
Anastasia utilizes theatrical haze, strobe lights, gunshot sound effects and smoking (vapor e-cigarettes).
VERONICA STERN (Anya) is thrilled to be making her national tour debut with Anastasia! In 2021, she made her professional debut with the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra and her New York debut at Feinstein’s/54 Below. BroadwayWorld named her one to watch in 2022! Special thanks to her team, Avalon Artists Group, and her family. BFA Musical Theatre, CCM. www.veronicastern.com, IG: @veronicastern
WILLEM BUTLER (Dmitry) is making his touring debut. BFA Music Theatre, Elon University. Credits: Jersey Boys (Frankie Valli), Catch Me If You Can (Frank Abignale, Jr), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Quasimodo). Willem competed and won first place in BroadwayWorld’s first annual NextOnstage competition. He would like to thank his family, friends, and specifically Mom and Dad for always supporting him. @KillemWillem, www.willembutler.com
BEN EDQUIST (Gleb) from Lake Jackson, TX is thrilled to be making his national tour debut! He was a member of the Houston Grand Opera Studio and has originated numerous roles in contemporary opera including the lead role in Carlisle Floyd’s last opera. Recent theater credits: She Loves Me (George Novak), Sweeney Todd (Anthony Hope), Carousel (Jigger Craigin). BM, Vanderbilt University. MM, Rice University. Lotte Lenya Competition Winner. Love and thanks to my amazing wife, my parents, the team at UIA talent, and my family at Brazosport Center Stages. www.benedquist.com, Instagram: @benedquist
GERRI WEAGRAFF (Dowager Empress) is thrilled to be touring with this wonderful cast and crew, telling this beautiful story! National Tour: Fiddler on the Roof (Golde). Regional: Arizona Broadway Theatre, Surflight Theatre, Beef & Boards, Fireside, Candlelight Theatre. Credits: Into the Woods (Cinderella’s Stepmother), Show Boat (Parthy Hawks), The Spitfire Grill (Hannah), Bright Star (Mama Murphy), Lend Me a Tenor (Julia). Many thanks to Jason Styres Casting and the Anastasia creative team, to my husband Paul, my children, family, and friends for their love and support! www.gerriweagraff.com
BRYAN SEASTROM (Vlad) is thrilled and honored to be a part of Anastasia. Favorite credits: The Red Skelton Story (Red), Singin’ in the Rain (Cosmo), Tangled: The Musical (Hook Hand), the national tour of Anything Goes, Disney Cruise Line. Bryan is also a puppeteer and family entertainer and can be found outside having fun with his pal Clide Snail in a web series called Bryan’s Backyard. Proud graduate, Pacific Conservatory of Performing Arts; BFA, Musical Theatre, The
College of Santa Fe. Shout out to his loving friends and family. A big thanks to the Anastasia team and Todd and Bob at ATB Talent.
MADELINE RAUBE (Countess Lily). National tour debut! Recent credits: Kiss Me, Kate (Kate); The Secret Garden (Lily); Life of the Party (Nina - Dir. Larry O’Keefe & Nell Benjamin); The Phantom of the Opera (Christine); Annie (Lily St. Regis). Master’s degree, Musical Theatre Performance, NYU; bachelor’s degree, Classical Voice, Oberlin Conservatory. A huge thank you to Mom, Dad, Olivia, and Charlotte for all your love and support! www.madelineraube.com, Instagram: @mdrsinger
THALIA ATALLAH (Ensemble) is over the moon to make her national tour debut! Southern California native, recent Musical Theater graduate from UCLA. Credits: In the Heights (Nina), Pippin (Leading Player), Heathers: The Musical (Heather Chandler), Seussical (Gertrude), The Addams Family (Wednesday). Thanks to family and agents at CESD for their unwavering support and the Anastasia team for giving her home, love, family.
ZACHARY BIGELOW (Ensemble) (he/him). BFA Musical Theatre, Shenandoah Conservatory. Tour: Something Rotten! (Ensemble, u/s Shakespeare) Regional: Flat Rock Playhouse, Short North Stage, ACT of Connecticut. Most recently seen on the mainstage of the beautiful Disney Dream, sprinkling pixie dust and stepping in time. Special thanks to my parents, family, friends, and Jim Keith at MTA for their endless love and support. For Katie, all my love. @zmbluvz2act
WILLIAM AARON BISHOP (Ensemble) is thrilled to make his national tour debut! Previous credits: Jersey Boys (Norwegian Cruise Lines), Head Over Heels, Once Upon a Mattress, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and many more. He was a featured soloist for Broadway’s Future Holiday Concert at Lincoln Center. William thanks his agents at EA, his loving family, and friends for all their support. Enjoy the show!
LOUIS BROGNA (Ensemble) is making his National tour debut! Hailing from Boston, and a Boston Conservatory alumni, Louis currently resides in NYC. Past credits: The Donkey Show (A.R.T.), The Music Man (Olin Britt). Louis thanks friends, family, and the team for their support. @louisbrogna www.louisbrogna.com
GABRIELLA BURKE (Ensemble) is thrilled to make her national tour debut with Anastasia! Originally from metro-Detroit, Michigan, Gabriella moved to New York City where she
recently graduated with a BFA in commercial dance from Pace University. When not performing, Gabriella is a STOTT certified pilates instructor and enjoys working with clients to rehabilitate and/or prevent injury. Gabriella sends a huge thank you to the Anastasia team and to all her teachers, family and friends for all their support! :) @gab.burke
LEELA CHOPRA (Little Anastasia) is delighted to make her national tour debut! Leela is nine years old and has performed in various school and community recitals. Upcoming: Sesame Street (PBS/HBO Max). Many thanks to Nouveaux Management, her amazing coaches (Ms. Talara, Ms. Christine, Ms, Namrata and Actors Technique), PS 59 teachers. Love to grandparents, Mom and Dad for their endless support!
AMIN FUSON (Ensemble) is ecstatic to make his National tour and professional debut! He is from Albany, CA and attended The University of California, Irvine where he received his BFA in Music Theatre. Amin thanks his family, friends, and UCI teachers. Much love. @Amin_Fuson, www.AminFuson.com
REBECCA HARTMAN (Swing) (she/her) is a singer, dancer, and actor from Holtsville, NY. BFA Musical Theatre, Webster University. Recent credits: The Sound of Music (Maria, Choreographer); Mary Poppins (u/s Mary Poppins), Matilda (Acrobat, u/s Mrs. Wormwood, Choreographer). When not performing, she can be found teaching dance, playing princesses for children’s birthday parties, and creating TikToks. @rebecca_hartman_
KAITLYN JACKSON (Ensemble) is a graduate of Ithaca College’s BFA Acting program. Credits: All Shook Up (Natalie), Songs for a New World (Woman 2), Titanic: The Musical (Kate Murphy), and an apprenticeship with the Daniel Gwirtzman Dance Company. She has two albums of original music and was featured on Season 13 of American Idol. www.Kaitlyn-Jackson.com
BROOKLYN LIBAO (Ensemble). This is Brooklyn’s national tour debut! Originally from Montreal, Canada, she moved to New York City to study at The Ailey School. She has danced alongside The Alvin Ailey Dance Company in Memoria and performed Awakening by Robert Battle at Lincoln Center. Thank you to the team and her supportive family. IG: @Brooxlib ALEC LLOYD (Swing, Co-Dance Captain) is ecstatic to be making his national tour debut! Credits: Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Tangled: The Musical, Twice Charmed (Disney Cruise Line).
Alumni of The Young Americans College of the Performing Arts. Special thanks to his parents and friends for their endless support, Lisa Lindholm and Julie Medeiros at Go 2 Talent Agency, and the entire Anastasia team. @alec.james.lloyd
VICTORIA MADDEN (Ensemble, Co-Dance Captain). National tour debut. Credits: School of Rock (u/s Patty), The Count of Monte Cristo, Beauty and the Beast, Annie (Tuacahn Amphitheatre), Anne Frank: My Secret Life (Anne Frank, Syracuse Stage), The Wizard of Oz, Hello, Dolly! (Maine State Music Theatre), The Little Mermaid (Arista, The Argyle Theatre), Saturday Night Fever, Newsies! (Hannah, Cortland Repertory Theatre). Training: Bolshoi Ballet, Joffrey Ballet. BFA: Musical Theatre, Syracuse University.
BILLY McGAVIN (Ensemble). National Tour: Evita (American Theatre Guild). Regional: Beauty and the Beast (Moonlight Amphitheater), Ragtime, Bright Star, Joseph... (Candlelight Pavilion), Footloose (Glendale Centre Theatre), Into the Woods (Lewis Family Playhouse). IG: @billymcgavin
LUKE RANDS (Ensemble). National tour debut! Regional credits: Music Theatre Wichita - Newsies (Albert), The Drowsy Chaperone (Pastry Chef), Hairspray (Nicest Kid), 42nd Street. Brigham Young University MT BFA ’22. Thanks to LINK, The Collective, his educators, and his wonderful family. IG: @lukerands
LATHAN A. ROBERTS (Ensemble) is overjoyed to be joining the cast of Anastasia! Lathan is a proud native of Atlanta, GA where he trained and studied Dance at Brenau University. National Tour: Summer: The Donna Summer Musical (Ensemble, u/s Andrew Gaines) Regional: RWS Big Top Dreams (Dance Captain), Damn Yankees (Ensemble), Crazy For You (Pete). Huge thank you to my friends, family, and teachers for your constant support. Lastly, thank you to Resolute Artists Agency! IG @Lathanr__
ALEXANDRYA SALAZAR (Little Anastasia) is thrilled to make her national tour debut! Her credits include: Puccini’s Madama Butterfly (Sorrow u/s), The Lyric Opera of Chicago; North American Premiere of Solaris (The Child), Griffin Theatre; and most recently, The King & I (Princess Ying Yaowlak), Drury Lane Theatre. She is nine years old, a print model and has done commercials and voice over projects. Much love to her parents for their love & support. Thanks to her family and friends for all their encouragement. Special thanks to her teachers/coaches for their guidance and her agents at Big Mouth Talent. IG @alexandryads
AMY SMITH (Swing). National tour debut! Regional/New York: Feinstein’s 54 Below, Tuacahn, Moonlight Amphitheater, Moscow Ballet, New York Metropolitan Opera with LV Opera, CCAE Theatricals, Hale Center. Film: Miracle Valley (Kelly) in theaters 2022. Broadway Dance Center ProSem graduate and BYU BFA MT’20. Thanks to the Anastasia team, Avalon Artists Group, and family!
SARAH STATLER (Ensemble). Regional: Buddy…The Buddy Holly Story (Vi Petty), Indecent (Miriam Godowsky/Accordion), Tickling the Ivories (Pianist/Vocalist), New York Theater: The Dome (Sarah), Jay Alan Zimmerman’s Incredibly Deaf Musical (Lisa), Leonard Bernstein’s Mass (Featured Street Chorus).
DOMINIC PAGLIARO (Swing) (He/Him) is thrilled to make his National Tour debut with Anastasia! Regional: The Little Mermaid (New Paradigm Theatre), Newsies (Cardinal Stage), Mamma Mia! (Woodstock Playhouse), Jesus Christ Superstar (Clinton Showboat), and more. BFA Indiana University. From Sandy Hook, CT, Dominic is endlessly grateful for Mom, Dad, family, and friends for their support. Special thanks to Jim Keith at MTA, Jason Styres, and the team at Anastasia for making this possible! www.dompagliaro.com @dompags35
TERRENCE McNALLY (Book) (November 3, 1938 – March 24, 2020) is a recipient of the Dramatists Guild Lifetime Achievement Award. He has won four Tony Awards for his plays Love! Valour! Compassion! and Master Class, and his musical books for Kiss of the Spider Woman and Ragtime. In 1996, he was inducted into the Theater Hall of Fame, and in 2018 he was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Letters. He is a member of The Dramatists Guild, Inc.
LYNN AHRENS (Lyrics) and STEPHEN FLAHERTY (Music) have been collaborators since 1983. They won the Tony, Drama Desk, and Outer Critics Circle Awards for Ragtime, and Once On This Island won the 2018 Tony for Best Revival of a Musical. They were nominated for two Academy Awards and two Golden Globes for the score of Twentieth Century Fox’s animated feature film Anastasia, and with Terrence McNally, they also adapted Anastasia for Broadway. Other Broadway credits: Seussical (one of the most produced shows in America), Rocky, My Favorite Year, Chita Rivera: The Dancer’s Life, the 2009 revival of Ragtime, Lincoln Center Theater’s A Man of No Importance, Dessa Rose, and The Glorious Ones Playwrights Horizon: Lucky Stiff. Upcoming shows include Little Dancer, directed and choreographed
by Susan Stroman, and Knoxville, directed by Frank Galati. Ahrens and Flaherty are four-time Grammy nominees, recipients of the Oscar Hammerstein Award for Lifetime Achievement, and were inducted into the Theater Hall of Fame in 2015. They serve on the Council of the Dramatists Guild of America and founded the DGF Fellows Program for Emerging Writers. www.ahrensandflaherty.com
TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX (Inspired by the Motion Pictures). One of the world’s largest producers and distributors of motion pictures, Twentieth Century Fox Film includes the component units Twentieth Century Fox, Fox 2000 Pictures, Fox Searchlight Pictures, Fox International Productions and Twentieth Century Fox Animation. Fox Stage Productions, the live theatre production division of the studio, has offices in New York and Los Angeles and is currently developing numerous legitimate stage properties based on iconic motion pictures in the Fox library, including Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Mrs. Doubtfire and The Devil Wears Prada, among others.
DARKO TRESNJAK (Original Director) won the 2014 Tony, Drama Desk, and Outer Critics Circle Awards for A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder starring Jefferson Mays, and a 2015 Obie Award for The Killer starring Michael Shannon. Favorite productions: The Ghosts of Versailles with Patti LuPone, The Merchant of Venice with F. Murray Abraham, Titus Andronicus with John Vickery, The Skin of Our Teeth with Marian Seldes, All’s Well That Ends Well with Kate Forbes, and Rear Window with Kevin Bacon.
PEGGY HICKEY (Original Choreographer). Broadway: Anastasia (also in Europe and Tokyo), Dutch Tony Award Best Choreography, A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder (Astaire and Outer Critics Circle noms.). Lincoln Center: My Fair Lady (NY Philharmonic). Regional: Hartford, Old Globe, Goodspeed, Paper Mill, Music Theatre Wichita, California Music Theatre. Opera: Most major opera houses. Film: Woodshock, The Brady Bunch Movie (MTV Award, Best Choreography nom.). TV: Hansel and Gretel (Live from Lincoln Center), Die Fledermaus (Live from The Kennedy Center), Beck’s The New Pollution (MTV Award, Best Choreography). www.peggyhickey.com
SARAH HARTMANN (Director) is a New York based director and writer. She has worked on Broadway and across the country at theaters such as Hartford Stage, The Old Globe, Chautauqua Theater Company, Charlottesville Opera, Dubuque Symphony Orchestra, and the Juilliard School. She can currently be seen on the Disney+ show Encore! and is developing projects for film and TV. Thanks
to Donna and Helen.
BILL BURNS (Choreographer) has directed and choreographed US and International companies of The Producers, Japanese productions of On the Town, Curtains, My One & Only, and was Resident Choreographer for the US premiere of Dirty Dancing. Bill has numerous theater, film, and television credits to his name. Most recently, his work was seen on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.
ALEXANDER DODGE (Scenic Design).
Broadway: Anastasia (Outer Critics nom.), A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder (Tony, Drama Desk, Outer Critics noms.), Present Laughter (Tony nom.), Old Acquaintance, Butley, and Hedda Gabler. Off-Broadway: Harry Clarke (Vineyard); The Liar (CSC); Ripcord (MTC); Rapture, Blister, Burn (Playwrights); Lips Together, Teeth Apart (Second Stage); Observe the Sons of Ulster… (LCT, Lortel winner). West End: All New People. Opera: Samson et Dalila (Met), Thirteenth Child (Santa Fe), The Ghosts of Versailles (LA Opera), Dinner at Eight (Minnesota, Wexford), Il Trittico (Berlin). Training: Yale.
LINDA CHO (Costume Design). Broadway: The Great Society, Lifespan of a Fact, Anastasia (Tony nom.), A Gentlemen’s Guide to Love & Murder (Tony Award), The Velocity of Autumn. Over 200 regional and international design credits in theatre, dance, and opera. Recipient of the Craig Noel Award, Connecticut Critic Circle Award, Irene Sharaff Young Master Award, Ruth Morely Design Award. Nominations from Outer Critics Circle, Drama Desk, Lucille Lortel, Henry Hewes, Elliot Norton, Bay Area, Robby, IRNE, and Jeff Awards. Linda sits on the Advisory Committee for the American Theater Wing. MFA, Yale School of Drama. lindacho.com
DONALD HOLDER (Lighting Design). Broadway: The Lion King and South Pacific (Tony Awards); The King and I, Oslo, The Bridges of Madison County, Golden Boy, Ragtime, Les Liaisons Dangereuses, A Streetcar Named Desire, Movin’ Out, Gem of the Ocean, Juan Darien (all Tony noms.); Paradise Square; Tootsie; Kiss Me, Kate; She Loves Me; Spiderman: Turn Off the Dark, Big Fish; Bullets Over Broadway; Annie; Cyrano de Bergerac; The Boy from Oz; and many others. Off-Broadway: A Midsummer Night’s Dream (TFANA), Blood and Gifts, Happiness (LCT) and many others. Opera: Porgy and Bess, Rigoletto, Two Boys, and The Magic Flute (Metropolitan Opera).
PETER HYLENSKI (Sound Design). Grammy, Olivier, five-time Tony nominated. Selected
Designs: Frozen, Anastasia, Once On This Island, Something Rotten!, Rock of Ages, After Midnight, Motown, The Scottsboro Boys, Side Show, Rocky, Bullets Over Broadway, Shrek the Musical, On A Clear Day…, Lend Me A Tenor, Elf the Musical, Wonderland, Cry Baby, The Times They Are A-Changin’, The Wedding Singer, Sweet Charity, Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me, Little Women, Brooklyn. Other credits: Moulin Rouge (Boston), Le Reve at Wynn Las Vegas, Ragtime (London), Rocky Das Musical (Hamburg, Stuttgart), King Kong (Melbourne).
AARON RHYNE (Projection Design). Winner of the Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards for Anastasia. Broadway: The Sound Inside, A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder (Drama Desk Award), Bonnie & Clyde. Tours: Hasan Minhaj: The King’s Jester. Off-Broadway: This Ain’t No Disco, Absolute Brightness…, Bootycandy, Water by the Spoonful, Wild With Happy, Working. Opera: The Thirteenth Child (Santa Fe), Florencia (Florida Grand), The Ghosts of Versailles (L.A. Opera), La Traviata (Wolf Trap). Disney: Frozen (Disneyland); Beauty and the Beast, Tangled, Aladdin (Disney Cruise Line). Regional: Noir (Alley), Love Actually Live(Wallace), Hair (Asolo). www.aaronrhyne.com
CHARLES G. LaPOINTE (Hair and Wig Design) is an award-winning designer. Numerous Broadway, Touring, Regional, West End, and international productions including Hamilton (Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylist Guild Award), Ain’t Too Proud, Beautiful – The Carole King Musical, Beetlejuice, The Cher Show (Drama Desk Award), Anastasia, SpongeBob SquarePants (Drama Desk Award), Jersey Boys, A Gentleman’s Guide…, In the Heights. TV: The Wiz Live! (Emmy nom.), Jesus Christ Superstar Live! (Emmy nom., Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylist Guild Award), Hairspray Live!
JOE DULUDE II (Makeup Design) has been designing makeup for Broadway, Off-Broadway and the West End since 2003. Some of his iconic designs can be seen in shows such as Wicked, Beetlejuice, Spongebob Squarepants the Musical and more. He has also worked on several television and film productions including most recently The Gilded Age, Don’t Look Up, Shrine, Frills and Castle Rock Season 2. He designed and received an Emmy nomination for his work on Jesus Christ Superstar, Live on NBC. He is an educator, fine artist and a drag performer. IG: @dulude2
TOM MURRAY (Music Supervisor). Broadway: Anastasia, Honeymoon in Vegas, The Bridges
of Madison County, Nice Work…, A Little Night Music, Sunday in the Park…. London: The Bridges of Madison County (Chocolate Factory), A Little Night Music (Garrick Theatre), Parade (Donmar), Pacific Overtures (Donmar). Premieres: Bedknobs and Broomsticks (UK), The Flamingo Kid (Hartford Stage), The Last Five Years (New York, London, film), The Glorious Ones, Loving Repeating, Saturday Night. Four Joseph Jefferson Awards (Chicago) and one Barrymore Award (Philadelphia) for music direction. Upcoming: Knoxville; Farewell, My Concubine.
DOUG BESTERMAN (Orchestrations). Threetime Tony Award-winner. Broadway: Anastasia, A Bronx Tale, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, It Shoulda Been You, Bullets Over Broadway (Tony nom.), Rocky, On a Clear Day…, Sister Act, How to Succeed… (Tony nom.), Elf the Musical, Young Frankenstein (Drama Desk nom.), Tarzan, Dracula, Thoroughly Modern Millie (2002 Tony/ Drama Desk Awards), The Producers (2001 Tony/ Drama Desk Awards), Seussical, The Music Man (Drama Desk/Tony noms.), Fosse (1999 Tony), Big (Drama Desk nom.), Damn Yankees (Drama Desk nom.). Off-Broadway: Carrie, Weird Romance. Regional: The Honeymooners, The Sting. TV/Film: Schmigadoon, Mary Poppins Returns, Beauty and the Beast, Frozen, Chicago, Mulan.
DAVID CHASE (Dance Arrangements) has been Dance Arranger, Music Director and/or Music Supervisor for 35 original Broadway productions, several West End shows, Radio City Music Hall, Lyric Opera of Chicago, and Boston Pops. TV: Music Director/Arranger for NBC’s The Sound of Music and Peter Pan (Emmy noms. for both). Grammy nom. for Nice Work... album. Music training: Harvard Biology degree.
JOHN MEZZIO (Music Coordinator) has conducted national tours including State Fair starring John Davidson, Victor Victoria starring Toni Tennille, and Cinderella starring Eartha Kitt and Deborah Gibson. Additionally, Mr. Mezzio was Associate Conductor for Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Starlight Express at the Las Vegas Hilton. National Tours: Oklahoma!, The Producers, Spring Awakening, Memphis, Beauty and the Beast, and Elf the Musical JEREMY ROBIN LYONS (Music Director) is thrilled to be taking this show on the road. Recent: The Mad Ones (Off-Broadway), The Sound of Music (National Tour). Other favorites: On the Town, Next to Normal, The Secret Garden, 42nd Street. Love/thanks to Mom, Pop, Raisa, and Josh for their endless support; and to Tom, Stephen, and
Sarah for welcoming me onto the team. “Home, love, family.”
RANDY COHEN (Keyboard Programmer). Randy Cohen and Randy Cohen Keyboards have programmed over 75 Broadway shows including Hamilton, Book of Mormon, Dear Evan Hansen, Frozen, Pretty Woman, Ain’t Too Proud, Bring It On, In The Heights, Spongebob, Summer, Once On This Island, Anastasia, Kinky Boots, Bandstand, On Your Feet, and Rock of Ages
JASON STYRES (Casting). Broadway: A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder, Dames at Sea, Disney’s The Lion King, Nice Work If You Can Get It. Off-Broadway: Puffs, Midnight at the Never Get (York), Pedro Pan, Neurosis, R.R.R.E.D., War Boys, Money Talks, Trip of Love, iLLA, Missed Connections, and 15 different Encores! productions. National Tours: A Gentleman’s Guide…, The King and I, Cinderella, Disney’s The Lion King, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Film/TV: How You Look at It, Carousel (PBS), Six by Sondheim (HBO), SYTYCD. London/ Las Vegas: Magic Mike Live (Channing Tatum, dir.). Other: Josh Prince’s Broadway Dance Lab, Looking for Christmas (Old Globe), Camille A. Brown’s developmental project, Hartford Stage, NY Philharmonic, SF Symphony, Florida Studio Theatre, Shakespeare Theatre Company, and others. Seven-time Artios nominee; NY Board Member of the Casting Society of America.
KATERYNA TURKALO (Production Stage Manager) is a freelance stage manager based in NYC. Recent PSM credits include RICOCHET: An Amoralist’s Anthology about Surviving an American Epidemic (ART/NY), Three Tales of Life and Death by Craig Lucas (59E59, Edinburgh Fringe Fest), and more. ASM: Anastasia (Nat’l Tour). Other National tour credits include: A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder, The King and I, The Spongebob Musical, and Escape to Margaritaville. Love and gratitude to Keaton!
MACKENZIE DOUGLAS (Company Manager). National Tours: Waitress, Fiddler on the Roof (dir. Bartlett Sher), Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella. Regional: Shakespeare Theatre Company, Olney Theatre Company. BA: Arts Management and Stage Management, Emerson College. Dog mom to Berkeley.
GENTRY & ASSOCIATES (General Management) has managed nearly 250 national and international touring theatrical productions over the past 25 years. Current and upcoming productions include 1776, Anastasia, Blue Man Group, Beetlejuice, The Book of Mormon, Elf the Musical, Fiddler on the Roof, Hairspray, Les
Misérables, Peter Pan, The Prom, and To Kill a Mockingbird
BOND THEATRICAL (Marketing & Publicity Direction) is an independently-owned booking, marketing and publicity company for live entertainment productions. Current tour booking and marketing shows include & Juliet, A Beautiful Noise, A Soldier’s Play, Annie, Blue Man Group, CATS, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cinderella, Clue, Clueless, Company, Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical, Girl from the North Country, Harmony, Jesus Christ Superstar, Lempicka, Life Of Pi, Les Misérables, Peter Pan and The Lehman Trilogy. Current tour booking shows include Kathleen Turner: Finding My Voice, KPOP and Spamilton. Current marketing and publicity shows include 1776, A Strange Loop, Anastasia, Dear Evan Hansen, Fiddler on the Roof, Jagged Little Pill, MJ the Musical, Moulin Rouge! The Musical, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Oklahoma!, SIX, The Phantom of the Opera on Broadway, The Prom and Tina — The Tina Turner Musical.
THE BOOKING GROUP (Tour Booking Agency) has represented 27 Tony Award® winning Best Musicals and Plays. Current tours include: Hamilton, Dear Evan Hansen, Come From Away, The Book of Mormon, 1776, Hadestown, Mean Girls, MJ The Musical, Pretty Woman, Six, Tina, To Kill A Mockingbird, Anastasia, Chicago, Fiddler on the Roof, Hairspray, My Fair Lady, R.E.S.P.E.C.T, and Tootsie. Future tours include: Almost Famous, Funny Girl, Mamma Mia!, Mrs. Doubtfire, A Strange Loop, The Devil Wears Prada, and The Wiz
SETH WENIG (Executive Producer) has been with NETworks since its inception in 1995. He spearheaded the international tours of Fosse starring Ben Vereen and Ruthie Henshall. Seth has produced the Lincoln Center Theater production of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s South Pacific and the National Theatre production of War Horse Together with Cameron Mackintosh, Seth served as Executive Producer for both the US and UK tours of the National Theatre’s My Fair Lady, the 25th Anniversary US tour of Les Misérables, the new The Phantom of the Opera tour, Miss Saigon Currently, Anastasia, The Book of Mormon, To Kill a Mockingbird, and Beetlejuice. He is most proud of his greatest productions – Marlo and Camden.
NETWORKS PRESENTATIONS (Producer) is an industry-leading producer of touring theatrical productions, committed to delivering quality entertainment to audiences worldwide for more than 25 years. Current and upcoming productions
include 1776, Anastasia, Blue Man Group, Beetlejuice, The Book of Mormon, Elf the Musical, Fiddler on the Roof, Hairspray, Les Misérables, Peter Pan, The Prom, and To Kill a Mockingbird. www.networkstours.com
STAFF FOR ANASTASIA EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Seth Wenig
ASSOCIATE PRODUCER Hannah Rosenthal
GENERAL MANAGEMENT
Gentry & Associates
Gregory Vander Ploeg
Pearce Landry-Wegener Steve Varon-Moore Maddy McCluskey Heather Moss
PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT
NETworks Presentations
Jason Juenker
Hector Guivas Shelby Stark Walker White pesci
MARKETING & PUBLICITY DIRECTION BOND THEATRICAL bondtheatrical.com
DJ Martin Temah Higgins Mollie Mann Marc Viscardi Wendy Roberts Melissa Cohen Simon Rosales
Casting Director ................................ Jason Styres Casting Associate Andrea Zee
TOUR DIRECTION THE BOOKING GROUP
Meredith Blair Rich Rundle and Brian Brooks thebookinggroup.com
Production Stage Manager .............Kateryna Turkalo Assistant Stage Manager Kendall Stevens Company Manager Mackenzie Douglas Assistant Company Manager .............. Aaron Martin Fight Choreography Alejandro de los Santos, Giovanni Napoli Associate Scenic Designer ......... Ann Beyersdorfer, Theron Wineinger
Assistant Scenic Designer Emma Antenen Junior Assistant Scenic Designer ...... Romello Huins Costume Coordinator ............ Matthew C. Hampton Assistant Costume Coordinator Benjamin Weigel Assistant Costume Designer .......... Raphael Regan Associate Hair, Wig, Make-up Designer ... Rachael Geier Assistant Hair, Wig, Make-up Designer Loren Skora Hair Consultant
.................................. Destinee Steele
Associate Lighting Designer ............... Vivien Leone Assistant Lighting Designer Kaitlyn Breen Moving Light Programmer Jeff Englander Associate Sound Designer ............Simon Matthews Associate Video Designer Nick Graci Video Programmer Don Cieslik Production Electrician .................... Cory Kalkowski Production Sound Ryan Moore
Head Carpenter...............................Blake Shepard
Flyman ........................................ Andrew Boucher
Assistant Carpenter Jesse Leach
Head Electrician .......................... Zachary J. Smith
Assistant Electrician Jessica Cuoghi Head Sound Jake Delgado
Assistant Sound .................................. Mark Dulac Head Props Kendall Barbera Wardrobe Supervisor Jessie Clites
Assistant Wardrobe ........................... Kara Messer Wig/Hair Supervisor Jakob Robson Video/Swing Tech Adam Rye
Electronic Instrument Programmer......Randy Cohen Associate Keyboard Programmers Sam Starobin, Tim Crook, Nick Schenkel Production Assistants .................... Sage Lumsden, Jared Pereida, Ashton Pickering
Dialect Coach ...........................Claudia Hill Sparks
Teacher/Child Wrangler................ Christina Rogers Physical Therapy NEURO TOUR Physical Thearapy, Inc. Advertising ................................... aka Advertising Interactive Media ....................... Andy Drachenberg Production Videographer HMS Media Production Photography ................... Matthew Murphy, Jeremy Daniel Merchandising The Araca Group Merchandise Manager.................... Nathan Gardner
Accounting NETworks Presentations, LLC. Legal Services F. Richard Pappas, Esq. HR Services .......................... Global Solutions, Inc. Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Strategy Production on Deck Housing Road Rebel Travel Agency ................................ Janice Kessler, Carlson Wagonlit Travel Trucking Clark Transfer
Chief Executive Officer ............................ Orin Wolf Chief Financial Officer ................. Scott W. Jackson Chief Operating Officer Jennifer Ardizzone-West Chief Producing Officer ........................ Seth Wenig Executive Producers Mimi Intagliata, Trinity Wheeler Associate Producer Hannah Rosenthal
Executive Assistant.................... Isabellea Schiavon Health and Safety Director Kayla Rooplal Sr. Director/Finance John Kinna Controller ..................................... Jennifer Gifford Director of Tour Accounting Laura S. Carey Tax Director Pat Guerieri
Associate Tax Accountant ............... Kim Ngan Tran Sr. Director/Booking and Engagements Mary K. Witte Director, Booking and Engagements Colin Byrne Engagement Manager....................... Stacey Burns Director of Sales Zach Stevenson Director of Marketing ........................ Heather Hess Sr. Director/General Management .. Gregory Vander Ploeg Sr. General Manager/Operations Director Pearce Landry-Wegener
General Manager ............................. Steven Varon-Moore
Associate General Managers Madeline McCluskey, Heather Moss Operations Manager Catherine Logan Blanar Sr. Director/Production Management Jason Juenker Sr. Production Manager ................... Hector Guivas
Production Managers Shelby Stark, Walker White Technical Director pesci Music Coordinator .............................. John Mezzio Warehouse Manager Joseph Spratt Warehouse Costume Manager Bobby Maglaughlin
Maury Donnelly and Parr, Inc. Robert B. Middleton, Sr and Meghan Coleman
Rehearsed at RWS Studios, New York City, NY
Scenery built, painted, and automated by Show Motion, Inc., Milford, Connecticut, and EMTECH Fabricators; Props by BrenBri Properties; Lighting equipment by PRG Lighting; Sound equipment by PRG Audio; Voice over recording at Kilgore Recording; Video equipment by Sound Associates, Inc.; Costumes Executed by: Eric Winterling Inc.; Redthreaded; Krostyne Studio; Jennifer Love Studio; Sew Good it Hurts; Primadonna Tutus Inc.; Anicete designs, Bra*Tenders; Uniformal Wearhouse; Millenary and Crafts Executed by: Arnold Levine Inc; Danny Logan; Jess Gersz; Caryn Wells Studio; Randy Carfango Production; Shoes Executed by: LaDuca Shoes; Worldtone Dance Shoes. Costume studio assistant: Ryan Neary. Chidren’s Studio Teacher provided by On Location Education. Makeup by M•A•C.
Columbia County Performing Arts Center in Evans, GA, Matt Jameson, General Manager; Nederlander National Markets, John McCall, Director of Programming
CONNECT WITH ANASTASIA
The Director and Choreographer are members of the STAGE DIRECTORS AND CHOREOGRAPHERS SOCIETY, a national theatrical labor union.
United Scenic Artists represents the designers and scenic painters for the American Theatre.
Following the Columbus Holiday Parade, warm up with a cup of hot cocoa, enjoy seasonal carols and holiday music in the lobby with organists Ron Carter, John McCall, Eddie Hulsey, Debbie Chambless and marvel at the creativity on display with this season’s Gingerbread Village! BIOS
RON CARTER (Organist) is a sought-after theatre organ concert and silent film accompanist playing in theaters throughout the southeast. He is the theatre organ consultant for Allen Organ Studios of Atlanta and the House Organist for the Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre in Marietta, Ga. He has been a member of the Strand Theatre Board of Trustees since its inception 19 years ago having served as Board Secretary for 13 of those years. He is past Chairman of the Board for the Marietta's Pops Orchestra, the former President of the Atlanta Chapter of the American Theatre Organ Society and a recipient of its 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award, the American Theatre Organ Society’s 2009 Honorary Member award, and was recognized as Cobb's 2010 Outstanding Instrumentalist. For over 50 years Ron has served five churches in a part time capacity as organist/Choir Director and is currently part of a team of organists who play for worship services at Marietta First Baptist Church. He is a retired Commander of the Georgia Bureau
of Investigation after serving 38 years in public law enforcement. Ron and his lovely wife Donna live in Marietta, Georgia and have one son, John, daughterin-law Julie and two precious grand children, Abby and Jake!
JOHN McCALL (Organist) was instrumental in securing the 3/11 Möller organ for the Rylander Theatre in Americus, Ga. where he serves as house organist. He has played for numerous productions of the Sumter Players and was featured with Mickey Rooney and President Jimmy Carter and his first lady, Rosalynn.
McCall earned degrees in journalism and public administration from Georgia State University where he worked as administrative assistant to the chairman of the Department of Music. While there, he produced the first “Keyboard Colossus” at the Atlanta Fox. The concert raised more than $9,000 toward the “Save The Fox” effort. His monograph, "Atlanta's Fox Theatre: Mecca on Peachtree Street”
Ron Carter
Eddie Hulsey
John McCall
Debbie Chambless
went through several printings and raised more than $70,000 toward the “Save The Fox” campaign. McCall was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Atlanta Chapter ATOS following his solo concert at the Rylander Theatre, October 16, 2010.
EDDIE HULSEY (Organist), native of Tallapoosa, currently serves as the organist at the First United Methodist Church of Bremen. During his over 35 years of service as a church musician, he has served congregations throughout Haralson County. He is an attorney and has served as Haralson County’s Probate Judge for the last 22 years. His interest in the theatre organ was spawned at a young age by hearing Bob Van Camp play the Möller organ at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta. He serves as a member of the Board for the Atlanta Chapter of the American Theatre Organ Society, and is an associate organist at the Strand Theatre in Marietta, Georgia.
DEBBIE CHAMBLESS (Organist) began playing the organ at the age of five. She always loved the theatre organ and her music teacher helped nurture that love by exposing her to public venues in and around Atlanta. Debbie spent most of her life playing for various churches as well as playing at the Chapel at Callaway Gardens for 15 years. She now has a theatre organ of her own and enjoys playing at the Strand Theatre in Marietta, the Tivoli Theatre in Chattanooga, and now at RiverCenter. She is married to Daryl, a pianist, and has one son, Derek who plays guitar. She currently lives in Pisgah, AL.
THE WAVE THEATRE ORGAN On June 25, 2021, RiverCenter became the new home of an Allen GW IV digital theatre organ, a gift from Dr. Marie Jureit-Beamish through the Atlanta Chapter of the American Theatre Organ Society (ACATOS).
The history of theatre organs can be traced to entertainment venues in the mid-teens through the late 1920s, when entertainment across the country centered around silent movies and Vaudeville. During their heyday, thousands of movie houses depended on live musical accompaniment, providing the primary usage of the original theatre organs until the “talkies”—movies with sound—became mainstream in the early 1930s.
In the decades to follow, some organs were destroyed when their theatres were torn down, but some found their way into churches or private home installations. The American Theatre Organ Society was founded in 1955 to save as many of these instruments as possible. While there were originally several thousand theatre organs, today only a few hundred remain.
The Allen Organ Company of Macungie, PA is a world leader in the creation and manufacture of digital organs for churches, concert halls, theatres and private homes. In 1997, the company’s “Renaissance” technology changed the organ world, using digital technology to imitate pipe organ sound.
In the distinctive world of the theatre organ, the model GW IV made history.
“GW” stands for George Wright the legendary organist who consulted with Allen technicians to create the instrument. RiverCenter’s GW IV has four keyboards with the equivalent voices of 33 ranks of pipes.
The GW IV also features percussion (glockenspiel, xylophone, chimes, etc.) and “traps” (cymbals, snare drums, tambourines and castanets) making the GW IV the full equivalent of a large theatre pipe organ. The sound is amazing.
The History of RiverCenter's Allen GW IV Organ RiverCenter’s Allen GW IV was originally owned by South Florida pipe organ enthusiast Cal Jureit. Jureit purchased the Allen digital organ when a move to a new home could not accommodate the space required for his large Wurlitzer pipe organ that was installed in the upper floor of his previous home. Following her husband’s passing, Jureit’s wife, Dr. Marie Jureit-Beamish, decided to carry on Cal’s legacy and love of the theatre organ and began hosting a series of concerts in her home. As the former Director of Music at Principia College in Alton, IL, Dr. Juriet shared her passion for music through these “Jureit Musicale” concerts presenting some of the finest theatre organists in the world, both in concert and in silent film presentations with theatre organ accompaniment (what the original theatre organs of the 1920s were intended to do).
After a second downsizing with Dr. Jureit-Beamish and her current husband, she began looking for a new home for the instrument. She contacted Ken Double, organist for Atlanta’s Fox Theatre, President of ACATOS, and frequent performer at the Jureit Musicales, to see if he could assist.
As Double tells the story: “It’s funny how one door closes, and another door opens. One initial potential for the organ was a church south of Atlanta, and it appeared that might be the new home. But a change of heart from church leaders opened another door, and in stepped RiverCenter Executive Director, Norm Easterbrook. Mr. Easterbrook and ACATOS have a relationship dating to Norm’s tenure at the Rylander Theatre in Americus, GA, home to a Möller theatre pipe organ. When Norm found out about the Allen organ being available, the phone lines and internet waves started burning immediately!”
Easterbrook acknowledges that the Allen GW IV’s digital technology and portable installation made it the perfect instrument for RiverCenter, allowing for use in all three of RiverCenter’s concert halls. “We are profoundly grateful for the gift of this theatre organ to RiverCenter. Really, it is a gift to the Columbus community and the surrounding region as it will delight audiences in whatever way it is presented here at RiverCenter. You can’t help but smile and feel good when you hear a theatre organ because they are just pure fun.”
adapted for the stage by the ensemble cast
CAST Listed alphabetically
Lydia Bennet/Georgina Darcy/Charlotte Lucas/Ensemble .............................
Elizabeth Belfast
Mr. Bingley/Mr. Wickham/Mr. Collins/Mary Bennet/Ensemble ................... James Counihan Elizabeth Bennet Leda Douglas Jane Bennet/Miss Bingley/Ensemble ................................................................. Katie Housley Mr. Darcy/Mr. Bennet/Ensemble ........................................................................... Conner Keef Mrs. Bennet/Mr. Gardiner/Lady Catherine de Bourgh/Ensemble
James Lavender
Director Desiree Sanchez Transcriber and Script Coordinator ......................................................................... Alex Moon Lighting and Scenic Designer Bob Rogers Projection Designer............................................................................................. Lianne Arnold Costume Designer .................................................................................................. Kara Branch Sound Designer Alex Duncker
Technical Director Bob Rogers Production Stage Manager ................................................................................... Alex Duncker Assistant Stage Manager.................................................................................. Cynthia Caridad Production Manager Bob Rogers
There will be one fifteen-minute intermission.
The taking of photographs or the use of any kind of recording device is strictly prohibited.
This Performance and affiliated workshops and readings are part of Aquila Theatre’s Warrior Chorus: American Democracy program made possible in part by a major grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Democracy demands wisdom.
This production is supported in part by New City Department of Cultural Affairs and New York State Council on the Arts.
ELIZABETH BELFAST (Lydia Bennet/Charlotte Lucas/Georgiana Darcy/Ensemble) is elated to be joining the Aquila Theatre Company and would like to thank Desiree for allowing this to be her first professional theatre credit. She began her BFA in Acting at Texas State University and has since transferred to the Los Angeles Film School to pursue her Bachelor’s in Screenwriting. Recent credits include Aquila's most recent tour of Macbeth (Understudy) and The Great Gatsby (Understudy) as well as In Arabia We’d All Be Kings (Daisy), Stupid F*cking Bird (Mash), and Romeo and Juliet (Juliet). She would like to thank her parents Tracey and Brennon Belfast for always trusting her to follow her dreams, her partner Tanner for his unwavering love and support, and Bob Adams and Jake Dogias for giving her the confidence to pursue acting and being the greatest teachers an actor could ever wish for.
JAMES COUNIHAN (Mr. Bingley/Mr. Wickham/ Mr. Collins/Ensemble) is a New York based actor originally from Pittsburgh, PA. He received his BFA from Ithaca College and this will mark his second national tour with Aquila. Other credits include City Theatre, Ithaca Shakespeare Company, and Columbia University’s Graduate Theatre Department. James wants to thank his family and friends for their constant love and support. James-Counihan.com
LEDA DOUGLAS (Elizabeth Bennet) is a British actor with an extensive background in dance and choreography (Shaftesbury Theatre, The Curve). She trained in Lecoq's method before graduating from The Oxford School of Drama in 2018. Recent theatre credits include: Heart of the Mind (National Theatre), Shudder (Soho theatre), Henry VIII, The Merchant of Venice, Nuclear Future (The Lowry), The Night Before Christmas (Polka Theatre), as well as leading roles in; The Time Machine, The Gunpowder Plot and Alice in Wonderland. Short film credits include: BLACK MONEY, HOUSEKEEPING, I AM, and WOMAN TO WOMAN; including her production company's (Mixed Productions) first short, DINAH, now touring the film festival circuit.
KATIE HOUSLEY (Jane Bennet/Miss Bingley/ Ensemble) is a Canadian stage and screen actress based in New York. Selected theatre credits include: Twelfth Night (Classical Theatre Project), Encore! (U.S. National Tour), Danny and the Deep Blue Sea (Alliance Repertory Theatre), and Disgraced (Black Box Studios). Her play, Midnight on a Monday, won the Playwrights Guild of Canada/ Toronto Fringe Festival's 24 hour playwriting contest before receiving its world premiere at New York's WorkShop Theatre as part of the Midtown International Theatre Festival where it went on to receive a nomination for Best Short Subject. Her other plays include Karaoke Confessional (NYC's UnFringed Festival at the Secret Theatre), and Homecoming (New Writers Series at Toronto's
Paprika Festival). Her film work has premiered at various film festivals throughout North America and Europe. She is a graduate of the University of Toronto and of the conservatory at Stella Adler.
CONNER KEEF (Mr. Darcy/Mr. Bennet/Ensemble) Brooklyn-based, Kentucky-born actor. Training includes: Williamstown Theatre Festival (‘18), The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey (‘19), BFA Acting - Western Kentucky University (‘19). Credits include: Marlowe’s Faustus (The Secret Theatre), Romeo and Juliet (Spokehouse Productions), Ken Ludwig’s The Three Musketeers (The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey), The Great Gatsby, Macbeth (Aquila Theatre Company). As one might guess, Conner’s readiness to step into this field of work is owed to their teachers, friends, family, and not least of all, their mother.
JAMES LAVENDER (Mrs. Bennet/Mr. Gardiner/ Lady Catherine de Bourgh/Ensemble). Theatre credits: For Aquila Theatre; Macbeth, As You Like It, An Enemy Of The People, Hamlet, The Tempest, Sense & Sensibility; Henry V (Antic Disposition) The War of The Worlds (Layered Reality); Sleeping Beauty, (Rhodes Arts Complex); Loves Labours Lost, Twelfth Night, Comedy Of Errors, The Importance Of Being Earnest (Oxford Shakespeare Company); Peter Pan, Cinderella, Jack & The Beanstalk (Sheringham Little Theatre); Much Ado About Nothing (Lord Chamberlain's Men); Philoctetes (BAM New York); Macbeth (Gym at Judson Theatre, New York); Adventures in Wonderland, Supermarket Shakespeare (Teatro Vivo); Aladdin (Hazlitt Theatre); The Taming of The Shrew, As You Like It (Groundlings Theatre); Jack and the Beanstalk (Millfield Theatre); Headlines (BAC); Sleeping Beauty (Georgian Theatre Royal); The Jungle Book (Birmingham Stage Company); The Two Gentlemen of Verona (Greenwich Playhouse); Plebians Rehearse the Uprising (Arcola Theatre). James trained at Rose Bruford.
DESIREE SANCHEZ (Director) has been Aquila’s artistic director since 2012. This season she will be directing a new adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. Past productions she has directed include The Great Gatsby and Macbeth (Spring 2022), Nineteen Eighty-Four and The Odyssey (2019); A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Frankenstein (2018); Hamlet and Sense and Sensibility (2017); Much Ado About Nothing and Our Trojan War (2016); Romeo and Juliet, The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Philoctetes (2015); The Tempest and Wuthering Heights (2014); A Female Philoctetes at BAM Fisher's Hillman Studio (2014); Twelfth Night and Fahrenheit 451 (2013); The Taming of the Shrew and Cyrano de Bergerac (2012); Herakles (2012) at the Festival of the Aegean in Syros, Greece and at the Michael Cacoyannis Foundation in Athens and at BAM in 2013; Macbeth and The Importance
of Being Earnest (2011); and Six Characters in Search of an Author (2010). Desiree wrote the stage adaptations for Frankenstein, The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, and Wuthering Heights for the Aquila Theatre and choreographed for: A Very Naughty Greek Play, based on Aristophanes’ Wasps (2004); Julius Caesar (2006), Catch-22 (2007); The Iliad: Book One and The Comedy of Errors (2008). Desiree had a twenty-year career in dance which included working as a principal dancer for the Metropolitan Opera Ballet.
LIANNE ARNOLD (Projection Design) is a video & scenic designer and interdisciplinary artist working in theater, opera, music, dance, film, & art installation. For Aquila: 1984, Hamlet, Sense and Sensibility. Other recent performance and film projects include Lil Buck & Jon Boogz’ Love Heals All Wounds (projections/CAP UCLA & MOVE on Netflix), Prospect Theater Co.’s VISION Series & The Hello Girls (scenic & projections), HBO's The Lady and the Dale (animations), Jazz Singer (projections/Abrons Artspace), Oscar at the Crown (projections/3 Dollar Bill), Words on the Street (co-creator & projections/ Baruch), Joseph Keckler’s Let Me Die (projections/ Opera Philadelphia/FringeArts) and Joseph Keckler’s Train With No Midnight (projections/Prototype Festival/HERE). When the COVID-19 shutdown happened in March 2020, Lianne was working as the associate projection designer on The Lehman Trilogy on Broadway. Lianne teaches Video Design/ Creative Technologies at The New School and is a member of Wingspace Design Collective. MFA from CalArts. www.liannearnold.com
KARA BRANCH (Costume Designer) is a New York based costume designer. Her recent design projects include Fidelio with Heartbeat Opera Company, Machinal at Boston Conservatory at Berklee and The End of Hester, Imagining Madoff and Brecht: Call and Response with New Light Theater Company. Recent Assistant design credits include Hamilton (Broadway, National Tours and International Germany Tour), Slave Play (Broadway), The Secret Life of Bees at Atlantic Theater Company, By the Way, Meet Vera Stark at Signature Theater Company and Detroit ’67 at The McCarter Theater. karabranchdesigns.com
CYNTHIA CARIDAD (Assistant Stage Manager). Cynthia got her start in stage management with Santa Monica Rep’s 2011 production of The Tempest in Santa Monica, CA. After graduating with a BA at California State University Fullerton, she worked as a stage manager on cruise ships for 6 years. She is now based in New York. Selected Regional: ...what the end will be (PA), EgoManiac (PSM), Luisa Fernanda (PSM), Salir/Dido (PSM). She is grateful for her family’s support throughout all her adventures.
ALEX DUNCKER (Production Stage Manager). Hailing from beautiful Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Alex began her love affair with the performing
arts at her local western dinner theatre. After progressing from showgirl to stage manager, she ventured east to pursue a Theatre degree from the University of Vermont. Since moving to New York in 2016,. Alex has dabbled in film, managed several inventive new works (Meshahnye, Late Night at the Serpent, Codependent, Cartography, Voyeur), and produced a pop-up theatre (Destiny Manifests) in a repurposed storefront that presented Sam Shepard’s Fool for Love alongside original poetry, dance, live music, visual and performance art. Now, Alex is elated to be back on the road for her fourth tour with Aquila to continue her career of working with women-led artistic endeavors.
ALEX MOON (Transcriber and Script Coordinator) is a nonbinary theatre artist and translator who’s worked with organizations such as The American Repertory Theatre; Ensemble Studio Theatre; Speakeasy Stage Co; Boston University; Emerson College; Theatre Collaborative, and more. Recently, their short play, Bugs was chosen to be published by Concord Theatricals as part of the 47th Annual Off-Off Broadway Theatre festival. Their full-length play G-Town, was a finalist for the 2021 Eugene O’Neill National Playwrights Conference, and their most recent work, Ari + Dee, was produced by Broke People Play Festival and The Chain Theatre. As a translator, their editions of the Homeric Hymns to Dionysus will be featured in the forthcoming issue of Persephone: The Harvard Undergraduate Classics Journal. They are a member of New York University’s class of 2022 double majoring in Dramatic Writing Classics, having trained as well with the Yale School of Drama, Frantic Assembly, and One Year Lease’s Apprentice Program in Papingo, Greece. www.alexmoondrama.com
BOB ROGERS (Production Manager, Set & Lighting Designer, Technical Director) is excited to be back with Aquila theatre for another exciting season. Bob's technical career started in 2005 at Crossville, Tennessee. Since then, he has worked on cruise ships, theme parks, tours, regional theatres, circuses, and even 100 feet diameter balloons. Bob has done technical theatre in every state of the continental US, Guam, and even China.
Aquila Theatre is one of the foremost producers of classical theatre in the United States and has been bringing audiences world-class actors, captivating designs, innovative adaptations, and impactful direction since 1991. Aquila Theatre also provides extensive educational offerings and is an awardwinning leader in the field of public arts and humanities programming. Aquila Theatre's mission is to create innovative interpretations of the classics for today’s audiences. By diversifying the classics and expanding the canon, Aquila seeks to enhance the plurality of our perspectives.
Aquila regularly produces in New York, most recently at The Brooklyn Academy of Music, GK Arts in DUMBO, and ART/NY. The company also visits 50 - 60 American cities per year with a program of two plays, workshops, and educational programming, and is under the Artistic Directorship of Desiree Sanchez. Aquila has been awarded numerous grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, The National Endowment for the Humanities, from which it received a Chairman's Special Award, the New York State Councils for the Arts and Humanities, and the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs. Aquila has performed at the White House under the Bush and Obama administrations and has performed for the U.S. Supreme Court and for the National Council on the Arts. Aquila was also recently invited by Lin-Manuel Miranda to perform at the U.S. Capitol in support of the National Endowment for the Humanities, for its groundbreaking theatre and humanities program: The Warrior Chorus.
PRODUCTIONS IN NEW YORK CITY: Aquila is a major part of New York's theatrical landscape, producing a regular season of plays. Aquila recently produced: The Trojan War: Our Warrior Chorus, based on the writings of Homer, Aeschylus, Euripides, Sophocles and reimagined through the experiences of modern day military veterans at Brooklyn Academy of Music; Romeo and Juliet, The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Philoctetes at GK ArtsCenter in Brooklyn; a staged workshop production of A Female Philoctetes at BAM Fisher’s Hillman Studio as part of our YouStories program; Euripides’ Herakles at BAM; Shakespeare’s Macbeth at the GYM at Judson; Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Pirandello’s Six Characters in Search of an Author, Shakespeare’s As You Like It and Ibsen’s An Enemy of the People at the Skirball Center for the Performing Arts at New York University; Joseph Heller’s Catch-22; and Homer’s The Iliad: Book One Off-Broadway at the Lucille Lortel Theatre.
A MAJOR ANNUAL NATIONAL TOUR: Aquila is the foremost producer of touring classical theatre in the United States, visiting 50-60 American cities per year. Recent past touring seasons include: George Orwell’s 1984 and Homer’s Odyssey (2019/2020) Shelley’s Frankenstein and A Midsummer Night’s Dream (2018/19); Hamlet and Austen’s Sense & Sensibility (2017/18); Much Ado About Nothing and Murder on the Nile, as well as The Trojan War: Our Warrior Chorus (2016/17); Romeo and Juliet and Doyle’s The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes (2015/16); The Tempest and Brontë’s Wuthering Heights (2014/15); Twelfth Night and Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 (2013/14); Taming of the Shrew and Rostand’s Cyrano de Bergerac (2012/13); Macbeth and Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest (2011/12); A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Pirandello’s Six Characters in Search of an Author (2010/11); As You Like It and Ibsen’s An Enemy of the People (2009/10).
INTERNATIONAL PERFORMANCES: Aquila has appeared in numerous festivals and at venues around the world including performances in London, Holland, Germany, Greece, Scotland, Canada, Bermuda and at the Festival of the Aegean in Syros, Greece and the Michael Cacoyannis Foundation in Athens. Most recently Aquila performed A Female Philoctetes in Athens, Greece and Shakespeare’s The Tempest at New York University’s campus, La Pietra, in Florence, Italy as part of their summer event series.
EDUCATION PROGRAMS: Aquila is dedicated to theatre arts education and produces three major initiatives: Workshop America, a nationwide program that provides an opportunity for people to share in the art of Aquila; Theatre Breakthrough, which brings America’s schools to the stage; and Hear Our Call!, a drama training program for NY based teens from immigrant, refugee, asylee, and underserved families.
WARRIOR CHORUS: AMERICAN DEMOCRACY: The Warrior Chorus is a national initiative that trains veterans to present innovative public programs based on ancient literature, presented in partnership with the National Endowment for the Humanities. It will create national discussions around Democracy led by the people who fight for it. Staged readings, workshops and a series of discussions around the meaning and future of Democracy will tour in tandem with this year’s national tour of Julius Caesar and Pride and Prejudice.
Executive Artistic Director .............Desiree Sanchez Founding Director Peter Meineck Accountants InsightLedger
Represented by OPUS 3 Artists
Aquila Theatre
100 Washington Square East, Silver Center, Room 503 New York, NY 10003 aquila@aquilatheatre.com www.aquilatheatre.com
Follow Aquila Theatre on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, aquilatheatre.com and warriorchorus.org.
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, email Brooke Daniel-Ford at bdaniel-ford@rivercenter.org.
Charlene Alford
Shelley Anderson
Debbie Andreozzi
Sandra Barker
Belinda Barron
Joanne Bates
Susan Benson
Pamela Blackwell Marie Brooks
Fran Brower
Ann Marie Buckner
Eleanor Buckner
Linda Bugh
Carl Burell
Pat Burell
Lois Cain Ann Carlisle
Bobbie Carter
Laurie Carwile Linda Cave
Ricky Chambers
Vivian Chambers
Laura Chandler
Eva Chappelle
John Chappelle
Sharon Dennis
Eileen Edwards
Ruby Elder
Pat Etemadi
Claire Fairchild
Debbie Faison Glenn Fleming
Kathleen Foor
Dorothy Garza Twakia George Karla Gibbs
Laverne Golden Stephanie Gudz Cenneta Gunn Shirley Harris Linda Harvey
Sandra Hawthorne Elizabeth Hedges
Mary Hightower Claren Hill
Creola Howard
Lynette Jankowski
Gloria Johnson
Pauline Johnson Deborah King Jan Knowles Carol Lee
William Lee, Jr. Audrey Lenig James Lewis
Patti Lin
Jane Madayag
Suzanne Maynard
Charlotte McShurley
Dennis McShurley Judy Parham Rufus Parham Cynthia Parker Verdis Parks Ethel Pate
Adrien Rameau Paulette Rameau Butch Ray Kitrina Ray Ruth Reed-Dorsett
Joyce Richburg Beverly Riley
Dianne Robinson
Linda Rumold Wanda Rutledge Beverly Schlitzkus Sabrina Shine Nancy Shipman
Miriam Short
Louise Simmons
Mary Simonton Barbara Singleton Sylvia Sledge
Rose Slonaker John Soltau Tessie Soltau Alice Spengler Gail Stafford John Stafford Verlyn Tamlin Edweena Thomas Silvia Thompson Melode Thornton Carolyn Tigner Willie Tigner
Claudette Wade
Jacqueline Waldman Richard Walker Geraldine Watson
Howard Watson
Stephanie Wiley Carol Williams
Jane Wilson Yulane Wilson
Ann Carlisle
Pat Etemadi
Joyce Richburg
Rose Slonaker
Norman S. Easterbrook executive director
Tom Titus president Matthew Barkley past president Stephanie Hunter vice president Brad Clements treasurer William P. Kendall secretary
Mollie Smith executive committee member at large
Gary Allen Joseph Brannan Mike Burns
Adrian J. Chester Austin Gibson M. Scott Hill
John Laughbaum Richard Sears Glenda Sexton John T. Sims
Norman S. Easterbrook, Executive Director, CEO Carrie Corbett, Director of Marketing Brooke Daniel-Ford, Director of Patron and Customer Services
John (J.D.) Davis, Technical Director
Denise D. Dowdy, Director of Development Robin Peacock, Director of Facility and Event Operations Jim Rutland, Program Director
Kaitlin Hartley, Lead Box Office Ticketing Associate Will Bradley, Box Office Ticketing Associate Judy Lebish, Box Office Ticketing Associate Isabelle King, Box Office Ticketing Associate
BUSINESS AFFAIRS
Shannon Preston, Finance Manager Berkley Beach, Executive Assistant Sarah Winter, Business Affairs Assistant
DEVELOPMENT
Denise Dowdy, Director of Development Cheryl Roberts, Development Assistant
MARKETING
Carrie Corbett, Director of Marketing Lauren Bonaker, Marketing Manager
Brooke Daniel-Ford, Director of Patron and Customer Services
Robin Peacock, Director of Facility and Event Operations
Joshua Clemmons, Security Lead Ishmun Holcomb, Events and Facilities Coordinator Sable McCulley, Security Lead
PRODUCTION
John (J.D.) Davis, Technical Director Lance Fraker, Assistant Technical Director/Head Audio Dan Gray, Production Associate Kyle Gray, Head Flyman John Land, Stage Manager/Steward Kyle Patton, Lighting Coordinator
PROGRAMMING AND EDUCATION
Jim Rutland, Program Director
The safety and well-being of our patrons, staff and artists remains RiverCenter’s top priority. We continue to monitor CDC Covid guidelines and area Covid cases and make updates as needed. RiverCenter continues its enhanced cleaning and disinfecting protocols and, at the current time, masks are welcomed, but not required for patrons or staff. Hand sanitizers are located throughout the lobby.
PLEASE REFRAIN FROM ENTERING THE BUILDING IF YOU'RE EXPERIENCING ANY OF THE FOLLOWING SYMPTOMS OR HAVE BEEN IN CONTACT WITH ANYONE WHO TESTED POSITIVE FOR COVID-19 IN THE PAST 15 DAYS: FEVER, COUGH, SHORTNESS OF BREATH OR OTHER RESPIRATORY SYMPTOMS.
BOX OFFICE: The box office at RiverCenter, located at the corner of Broadway and Tenth Street, is open Monday–Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. It opens two hours before each performance and remains open through intermission. The box office is not open on federal holidays unless there is an event that day.
FREE PARKING: Parking is available in the parking garage directly in front of RiverCenter, 900 Broadway. Parking for those with disabilities is available in front of our main entrance. The garage is managed by the City of Columbus, not RiverCenter.
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 two hours prior to events and seating begins 30 minutes to one hour before curtain. At the discretion of house management and in compliance with artists’ contractual agreements, latecomers will be seated at appropriate intervals during events. Latecomers may be seated near the entry doors out of courtesy to performers and other patrons.
PROHIBITED EQUIPMENT: Please be courteous and turn off devices such as cell phones and pagers. Photography and recording is prohibited in the theatres.
SMOKE-FREE POLICY: RiverCenter is a smoke-free facility. Smoking is permitted in outdoor areas only. Thank you for your cooperation.
ELEVATOR: A patron elevator is located between the entrances to Bill Heard Theatre and Studio Theatre.
WHEELCHAIRS: Wheelchairs are available for patrons needing help getting to or from seating. Ushers will provide assistance.
AUDIO AIDS: Subject to availability, infrared listening devices are available for hearing impaired patrons. They may be obtained free of charge by presenting personal identification to ushers.
NO BABIES IN ARMS: Everyone attending a ticketed event, including all children regardless of age, must have a ticket.
LOST AND FOUND: Found items should be given to an usher for storing with RiverCenter Security. These items are retained by security for 30 days and then
donated. Owners may claim lost items by calling 706.256.3630 during regular business hours.
BAR SERVICE: Waiting in line is a thing of the past! With our new Harbor Touch Sky Tab system, ticket buyers can now order drinks and snacks as soon as they arrive! Simply follow these instructions:
FIRE NOTICE: Exits are indicated by red “exit” signs. In case of fire or other emergency, please do not run, but walk to the exit nearest to your seat.
EMERGENCY NOTIFICATIONS: The RiverCenter emergency phone number is 706.256.3630 and is accessible during event hours. Please provide this number and your seat location to your personal contacts or child care providers. If an emergency should happen during an event please locate the nearest usher or security team member.
» Once you arrive at RiverCenter, beginning an hour prior to show time, visit the online menu by typing https://pay.skytab.com/496f94 or by scanning the QR code above with your smartphone.
» Select "Order Now - Dine In."
» Enter your cell phone number in the "Enter Table" space. You will receive a text message with pick up instructions when your order has been prepared.
» Souvenir Cups, which can be taken into the theatre, are included in your drink order. If you already have your souvenir cup, choose the “refill only” menu options.
» Select items and check out.
» Please remain in your seat until you receive the text that your order is ready.
Outside beverages are not permitted in the theatre.
BILL HEARD THEATRE, STUDIO THEATRE, AND/OR LEGACY HALL: Call 706.256.3607 regarding availability of specific dates on the RiverCenter master calendar. Complete rental fees and policies can be found on rivercenter.org.
PATRONS ROOM: The Patrons Room on the mezzanine level may be reserved for private functions by RiverCenter Members and Partners. For information call Jim Rutland at 706.256.3607.
ILLGES PLAZA: Event and green space on 10th St. on North Side of Center may be reserved for special events. Call 706.256.3607. Important
The RiverCenter box office has tickets available for these series and events: TSYS Broadway on Broadway, Center Stage, RiverCenter ArtsReach, ArtsReach Matinees, The Wave Theatre Organ Series and the Family Series. 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.
SEASON TICKETS: Season tickets may be purchased at the box office, by telephone 706.256.3612 or with order forms in RiverCenter publications and mailings. Season subscriptions can be purchased with savings up to 30% off single seat prices.
MY SERIES PACKAGE: Tickets to RiverCenter events may be purchased at a 20% savings as a My Series Package. A My Series Package consists of at least one ticket to at least five events per patron.
GIFT CERTIFICATES: Available yearround in any dollar amount at the RiverCenter box office.
CUSTOM COMBOS: Tickets to RiverCenter events may be purchased at a 10% savings as Custom Combos. A
Custom Combo consists of at least one ticket to 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 rivercenter.org
TICKETS AT THE DOOR: Tickets to events that are not sold-out may be purchased at the box office beginning two hours before the start of the event.
GROUP DISCOUNTS: Most RiverCenter events offer discounts on individual tickets sold to groups of 10 or more. For information call 706.256.3612.
SPECIAL DISCOUNTS: Patrons must come to the box office to take advantage of most special promotions and discounts with presentation of appropriate ID. Military, Public Service, Educator and Senior discounts are available 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 deadlines and restrictions that apply. No refunds are given for ticket price variances or special offers.
Applause, the program guide for RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, is published periodically by RiverCenter, Inc. and distributed to patrons of season shows.
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.