Performances Magazine San Diego | La Jolla Playhouse, March 2024

PLAYHOUSE GALA

March 24

POP TOUR 2024: ABEBA IN THE TALL GRASS

Touring March – April

WITHOUT WALLS (WOW) FESTIVAL

In partnership with UC San Diego

April 4 – 7

P1 Program

Cast, performances, who’s who, director’s notes, donors and more.

4 In the Wings

King James at The Old Globe theater; The Roustabouts Theatre Co. presents Hand to God at Diversionary Theatre; two new Broadway San Diego shows; Beyond Monet: The Immersive Experience (pictured); and more.

8 Feature: City Ballet of San Diego

In its 30th anniversary season, City Ballet of San Diego is bringing three premieres to audiences in a program this month: An American in Paris

14 Dining

Where to dine and imbibe this spring, including Lucrezia (pictured), Steak 48, Santa Gula, Books & Records and Lou Lou’s Jungle Room.

24 Parting Shot

Luncheon on the Grass, a fragment of the painting by Claude Monet, on display at the Musée d’Orsay in Paris.

PUBLISHER

Jeff Levy

EDITOR

Sarah Daoust

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Carol Wakano

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DIGITAL MANAGER

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5790

PROTECTING NATURE SINCE 1874. BECAUSE WE LOVE THIS PLACE.

Nearly 150 years ago, a group of naturalists got together to study and share their love of this amazing place we call home. They wanted to learn more about nature and help others enjoy it more. It’s still what we do every day. In the field, and in the Museum. Your support keeps The Nat thriving. Which keeps nature thriving, too.

Get involved—for the love of nature—at sdnat.org.

Must-See Musicals

INSPIRED BY ONE of the most successful entertainers of all time, Broadway’s Tony Award-winning MJ: The Musical—created by Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage—makes its San Diego premiere at the Civic Theatre, March 5-10. The story specifically centers on Michael Jackson’s 1992 Dangerous World Tour—detailing the star’s signature sound, dance moves and artistry that cemented the tour’s success and his icon status. Famously sponsored by Pepsi-Cola, it was Jackson’s second global tour, comprising 70 concerts worldwide. The hit Broadway musical Disney’s Aladdin returns April 3-7. The dazzling new production—directed and choreographed by Tony Award winner Casey Nicholaw (The Book of Mormon, Something Rotten!)— explores the magical possibilities of one lamp and being granted three wishes. Sing along to favorite songs from the movie; as well as new music by Alan Menken; with lyrics by Howard Ashman, Tim Rice and Chad Beguelin. 1100 Third Ave., downtown, broadwaysd.com

Roman Banks in MJ: The Musical. Left: Senzel Ahmady and Adi Roy in the North American tour of Disney’s Aladdin

BROADWAY

Riveting, Live Local Theater

DUBBED AS A “hilarious and shocking theatrical experience,” The Roustabouts Theatre Co. brings us Hand to God, March 7-31 at Diversionary Theatre in University Heights. Written by Robert Askins and directed by Phil Johnson, the provocative comedy follows Jason—a quiet young man in a conservative town—who has a puppet, Tyrone, that takes on a life of its own. theroustabouts.org

THEATER

Delving into the power of basketball fandom and how sports can connect us, The Old Globe presents King James—written by Rajiv Joseph and directed by Justin Emeka—March 9-31. With the career of NBA star Lebron James as the backdrop, the play centers on two friends, Shawn and Matt, who have little in common other than their love of the Cleveland Cavaliers. theoldglobe.org

Van Gogh & Monet in 3D

TWO ARTSY, IMMERSIVE experiences have taken over Wyland Center at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, through April 4. In the returning exhibit Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience, the works of Dutch post-Impressionist painter Vincent Van Gogh come to life. Created by Mathieu St-Arnaud of Montreal’s Normal Studio, the walkthrough experience showcases more than 300 Van Gogh masterpieces via 3D projection technology. The space features projection-wrapped walls of shapes, lights and colors that

dance and morph into the artist’s famous landscapes, flowers, cafes and portraits—all set to a symphonic score. Visiting San Diego for the first time, the similar walk-through exhibit Beyond Monet: The Immersive Experience is also on view at Wyland Center. See more than 400 epic works by French impressionist painter Claude Monet come to life— including his famous ethereal water lilies, poppies and sunrises. See website for hours and tickets for both.

2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar, beyondvangogh.com/san-diego

Beyond Monet; King James director Justin Emeka.

An American in Paris

After Three Decades, City Ballet of San Diego is Still Premiering Exciting New Works

by STEPHANIE SAAD THOMPSON

iT’S FITTING THAT IN ITS 30TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON, City Ballet of San Diego is bringing no fewer than three premieres to its audiences in a program this month: An American in Paris including world premieres by its Resident Choreographers, Elizabeth Wistrich and Geoffrey Gonzalez. The award-winning company has made a name for itself in San Diego’s dance scene for performing the great classical ballets, but also modern works and new works, at a high artistic level since it was formed by Steven and Elizabeth Wistrich in 1993.

“We are always trying to incorporate new ballets into our repertoire. It’s very important for our dancers to learn new works as well as for our audiences,” says Elizabeth Wistrich. She has shown her commitment to creating new work many times over, creating to date 64 new ballets, including Boléro – The Awakening, which will receive its world premiere March 16 at the Balboa Theatre. Described as “exploring the ways the heart reacts to different emotions,” the new ballet is set to one of the most famous

pieces of classical music, Maurice Ravel’s Boléro, composed in 1928. The piece, already a favorite of dance companies for its intense buildup to a dramatic climax, became a household name when English ice dancers Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean skated to it and won a gold medal with a spectacular routine at the Sarajevo 1984 Olympics.

“Boléro was always one of my mother’s favorite pieces of music, and she actually choreographed a ballet to it, which I was in when I was 10 years old,” says Wistrich. “I

guess the fact that it’s so well-known could be both an asset and a challenge.” Wistrich says she was recently in Barcelona and was able to see a flamenco performance, which flavored some of her Boléro choreography. “The beats and tempos of the dancers’ footwork was incredible. I had already made the decision to add to the already strong timbre of the piece, using heartbeats. The rhythm of the dancers’ feet along with the heartbeats makes for a powerful score. And I am adhering to the climactic ending.”

Wistrich, the codirector of City Ballet School, trained at the Boston Conservatory of Music and first danced professionally as a member of the Boston Ballet Company—going on to perform with the Netherlands Dance Theatre and Stuttgart Ballet. Her ballets have been performed throughout the U.S.; and she won the San Diego Dance Alliance’s Tommy Award for “Best Choreography” for Aubade in 1999 and Enigma in 2000.

“I’ve always loved to choreograph from a

Resident Choreographer Elizabeth Wistrich; Paris in the springtime.

very early age,” she says. “My mother ran a ballet studio in her basement, and I used to go down to the basement and would choreograph for hours. I have always had many ideas in my head for ballets that I really wanted to do, whether classical or contemporary.”

That’s also the case for City Ballet’s other Resident Choreographer, Geoffrey Gonzalez, who joined the company in 2008 and performed lead roles in many productions. But like Wistrich, he has always wanted to choreograph. “I

/CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

“An astonishingly delightful romp.”

— New York Post

Molière’s TARTUFFE, acknowledged as one of the most enduring comedic masterpieces in the theatrical canon, is given an astonishingly clever translation by two-time Pulitzer Prize poet Richard Wilbur. The charlatan Tartuffe worms his way into a wealthy family causing disruption and pandemonium. With wicked precision and brilliantly rhyming verses, this highly satiric comedy skewers religious hypocrisy, duplicity, lust, and self-inflicted chaos. Lovers of classic theatre and ingenious wordplay will not want to miss this inventively entertaining evening.

Directed by Richard Baird

NOW-APRIL 7

NorthCoastRep.org

BOX OFFICE 858-481-1055

GROUP SALES: 858-481-2155, X202

heart

learn about Mario's story

Mario went to the hospital with a stomachache. He ended up needing a new heart. After just two days on the donor waitlist and four months of recovery, this eighth grader is back on track to being a kid.

The Artistic Director's Circle Season Sponsors

Roberta C. Baade Charitable Fund

Denise and Lon Bevers

Theodor S. and Audrey S. Geisel Fund

Hanna and Mark Gleiberman

Kay and Bill Gurtin

Jeanne L. Herberger, Ph.D.

Debby and Hal Jacobs

Joan and Irwin Jacobs

Sheri L. Jamieson

La Atalaya Fund

Rebecca Moores Foundation

Jordan Ressler Charitable Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation

Weston Anson - In Loving Memory of Susan Bailey Anson, Michael Bartell and Melissa Garfield Bartell, Gail and Ralph Bryan, Brian and Silvija Devine, The Estate of Pauline Foster, Laurie Gore and Julie Osman - Mission Valley Community Foundation, Lynn Gorguze and Scott Peters, Perlmeter Family Foundation, Karen and Jeff Silberman, Molli Wagner, Mandell Weiss Charitable Trust

A MESSAGE FROM THE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Dear Friends,

Tina Landau first reached out to me about Redwood in fall 2021, not long after the Playhouse re-opened its doors following a 16-month shutdown. At the time, Tina had a story treatment, half of a first draft, a handful of songs, and a request: would we consider hosting her, her composer/co-lyricist Kate Diaz, and Idina Menzel (who, in addition to performing, co-conceived the story with Tina) for a week and a half to help them complete a full draft of the show?

Welcoming these thrilling artists into our rehearsal room in January 2022 – even with masks on – was a glorious moment of resilience and renewal in the midst of a long (and ongoing) existential crisis for theatre. And it was especially fitting that Redwood’s story is also one of resilience and renewal. The show follows Jesse, a woman struggling with a profound personal loss that leads her to withdraw from her life in New York and journey across the country to the majestic redwoods. Through her interaction with the trees – and two of their caretakers, Finn and Becca – Jesse discovers what perseverance looks like in the face of loss, and what it takes to recommit and reconnect to her life.

Over the course of a few more workshops in the years since, the emotional world of Redwood has deepened, as has our understanding of how to bring Tina, Kate and Idina’s ambitious vision to our stage. Our stellar design team combine to immerse us in the forest, while Melecio Estrella and his cohorts in the acclaimed “vertical dance” company BANDALOOP bring their innovative artistry to the tree-climbing sequences.

Redwood marks Tina’s long-overdue return to the Playhouse, having last directed her play Beauty in 2003. It also represents the Playhouse debut for the wonderful Idina Menzel and the incredibly talented composer Kate Diaz, whose soaring and anthemic score combines her expertise in film/television scoring with a deeply theatrical storytelling impulse.

Now, two and a half years after Tina’s initial email to me, we get to share this beautiful story with you. Much has changed in the world since then, but the need for strength and resilience has not. Redwood shows us that looking to our inter-connected natural world can be an inspiration for the way we choose to live.

CHRISTOPHER ASHLEY

THE RICH FAMILY ARTISTIC DIRECTOR OF LA JOLLA PLAYHOUSE

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

La Jolla Playhouse acknowledges the land on which our theatres sit as the unceded territory of the KUMEYAAY NATION. Today, the Kumeyaay people continue to maintain their political sovereignty and cultural traditions as vital members of the San Diego community. Their contributions to our region are tremendous and we thank them for their stewardship.

LA JOLLA PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS

Christopher Ashley

The Rich Family Artistic Director of La Jolla Playhouse

Debby Buchholz Managing Director of La Jolla Playhouse

MUSIC BY

TINA LANDAU

LYRICS BY

BOOK BY KATE DIAZ AND TINA LANDAU

KATE DIAZ

TINA LANDAU AND IDINA MENZEL

CONCEIVED BY IDINA MENZEL

DIRECTED BY

WITH ADDITIONAL CONTRIBUTIONS BY TINA LANDAU

FEATURING

DE’ADRE AZIZA*, IDINA MENZEL*, NKEKI OBI-MELEKWE*, MICHAEL PARK*, ZACHARY NOAH PISER*

MUSIC SUPERVISOR

MUSIC DIRECTOR

ORCHESTRATIONS AND ARRANGEMENTS

SCENIC DESIGN

COSTUME DESIGN

LIGHTING DESIGN

SOUND DESIGN

MEDIA DESIGN

HAIR DESIGN

VERTICAL MOVEMENT AND STAGING

CASTING

STAGE MANAGER

ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER

PRODUCTION MANAGER

GENERAL MANAGER

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER

KIMBERLY GRIGSBY

HALEY BENNETT

KATE DIAZ

JASON ARDIZZONE-WEST

TONI-LESLIE JAMES

SCOTT ZIELINSKI

JONATHAN DEANS

HANA S. KIM

GEO BRIAN HENNINGS

MELECIO ESTRELLA, BANDALOOP

THE TELSEY OFFICE, PATRICK GOODWIN, CSA/JACOLE KITCHEN

LORA K. POWELL*

TOPAZ COOKS *

BECCA DUHAIME

RYAN MEISHEID

ERIC KEEN-LOUIE

THE CAST

(in order of speaking)

Jesse Idina Menzel*

Mel De’Adre Aziza*

Spencer, Clerk, Man in Rain, Mateo

Zachary Noah Piser*

Finn Michael Park*

Becca

Mel/Becca

Redwood is performed without an intermission.

UNDERSTUDIES

Aja Simone Baitey*

Spencer Giovanny Diaz de Leon Finn

Nkeki Obi-Melekwe*

Lance Arthur Smith*

Understudies are never substituted for listed roles unless a specific announcement is made at the time of the performance.

Associate Director

Artistic Producing Fellow

Associate Scenic Designer

Associate Sound Designer/Programmer

Associate Media Designer

Assistant Lighting Designer

ADDITIONAL STAFF

Kat Yen

Anne Ciarlone

Sean Stanford

Brian Hsieh

Benedict Conran

Joshua Heming

Aerial Rigging Design & Vertical Risk Management

Thomas Cavanagh, Basil Tsimoyianis BANDALOOP

Unreal Artists

Andrea Carver, Diogo Pereira

2d Animators

Media Tech Consultant

Hsuan-Kuang Hsieh

Jacqueline Reed, Ann Slote

Devin Kinch, Chelsea Zalikowski

Speedtree Artist Kelon Cen

Dance Routine De’Adre Aziza and Zachary Noah Piser

Stage Management Resident

Stephanie Carrizales‡ Production Assistant

Stage Management Intern

People & Culture Consultants

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Lauren Guiso

Olivia Huntley

Cornerstone Consulting HR

Thank you to all the actors and staff who have been part of the development process of Redwood

Scenic Motion Control featuring STAGE COMMAND SYSTEMS® by PRG Scenic Technologies, a division of PRG Broadway L.L.C., New Windsor, New York. Lighting, Audio and Video Equipment from PRG Broadway

Katie Grant • Creative Goods

The Budapest Scoring Orchestra • Greg Armstrong • Healy Henderson • Devin Burnworth • Erdis Maxhelaku • Linda Piatt • Karl Soukup

Eva Price • MEP • Loudmouth Media

Members of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. The theatre operates under an agreement between League of Resident Theatres and Actors’ Equity Association.

The Director is a member of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society, a national theatrical labor union.

This theatre operates under an agreement between League of Resident Theatres and United Scenic Artists, Local USA-829 of the IATSE.

* ‡

All musicians are represented by the American Federation of Musicians Local 325 San Diego.

This theatre operates under an agreement between La Jolla Playhouse and the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Local 122.

La Jolla Playhouse is a member of the League of Resident Theatres (LORT) and a constituent of Theatre Communications Group (TCG), the national service organization for the nonprofit professional theatre.

UC San Diego M.F.A. Candidates in residence at La Jolla Playhouse.

MUSICAL NUMBERS

THE PLACE Jesse

THE TREES

CLIMB Jesse, Finn, Becca

LITTLE REDWOOD Becca

DEAR EVERYONE Jesse

A LITTLE BIT WILD Finn, Jesse, and Becca

BACK THEN Mel, Jesse

THE ASCENT

GREAT ESCAPE Jesse

ROOTS Finn

LITTLE REDWOOD REPRISE Finn, Becca, Jesse

BACK THEN REPRISE Mel

STELLA Jesse, Stella

BECCA’S SONG Becca

NO REPAIR Jesse

LET THE FIRES COME Jesse

STILL Spencer, Jesse, The Trees

FINALE All

ORCHESTRA

Conductor/Keys 1 Haley Bennett

Drums Shannon Ford

Guitars PJ Bovee

Violin /Viola Healy Henderson

Cello/Bass Erdis Maxhelaku

Orchestra Contractor Michael Pearce

Track Producer Kate Diaz

Electronic Music Design

Billy Jay Stein, Hiro Iida and Scott Wasserman for Strange Cranium

Associate Music Director & Assistant Abelton Programmer Lyndon Pugeda

Abelton Programmer Scott Wasserman

Music Preparation

Jacob Fjeldheim

Music Assistant Morgan Hollingsworth

MUSIC STAFF

Vocals for Stella and The Trees by Kate Diaz

THE COMPANY

DE'ADRE AZIZA*, Mel

La Jolla Playhouse: Debut. Broadway: Passing Strange (Tony nominee), Women on the Verge, A Night with Janis Joplin. Off-Broadway: Passing Strange, Detroit ’67, Comedy of Errors, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Eve’s Song, Privacy (Public/NYSF); Ask Your Mama (Carnegie Hall). Regional: Passing Strange (Berkeley Rep); The Hot L Baltimore (Steppenwolf); Good Goods (Yale); Clyde’s (Goodman); Paradise Blue, Johnny Baseball (Williamstown). Film/TV: Flint Strong (MGM), Red Hook Summer, Passing Strange (40 Acres & A Mule), The Breaks (VH1), Ghost: PowerBook II, Run the World (Starz), She’s Gotta Have It (Netflix). @deadreaziza

AJA SIMONE BAITEY* (they/them) Understudy: Mel/Becca

La Jolla Playhouse: Debut. National Tours: Book of Mormon, Jesus Christ Superstar. Cruise Ship: Six (Norwegian Cruise Lines). Education: B.F.A. from Pace University.

GIOVANNY DIAZ DE LEON, (he/him)

Understudy: Spencer

La Jolla Playhouse: The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical. Regional: Witnesses (CCAE Theatricals); The Ferryman (New Village Arts); Lost in Yonkers (Scripps Ranch Theatre). Featured actor in Hershey Felder’s The Assembly Education: Graduate from the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts, majoring in Musical Theatre.

IDINA MENZEL*, Jesse/Concept/Additional Contributions

Idina Menzel has won a Tony, Obie, and Drama League Award for her work in the theatre. Broadway: If/Then, Wicked, Aida, Rent. OffBroadway: Skintight (Roundabout), See What I Wanna See (Public Theatre), The Vagina Monologues (West Side Theatre), The Wild Party (MTC), Hair (Encores). Regional: Wicked (San Francisco), If/Then (Washington, DC). Menzel also premiered Wicked in the West End, receiving the Theatregoers Choice Award. Film: You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah, Which Way to the Stage? (Documentary), Enchanted 2: Disenchanted, Frozen 2, Uncut Gems, American Murderer, Cinderella, Frozen, Enchanted, Ask the Dust, Rent. TV: Beaches, Glee, PBS special, “Barefoot at the Symphony,” (accompanying live album). Idina prides herself on the importance of new musicals creating original roles and promoting young composers. Thanks to the two amazing men in her life, her son Walker and husband Aaron, for their love and support. Thank you to the redwood for teaching us about resilience, patience, and nature’s ability to help us heal.

NKEKI OBI-MELEKWE*, (she/they) Becca

La Jolla Playhouse: Debut! Nkeki starred as Tina in Tina – The Tina Turner Musical on Broadway as well as on the West End. Her theatre credits also include Sheik & Sater's Alice by Heart (MCC, dir. Jessie Nelson), Half Time (Paper Mill Playhouse, dir. Jerry Mitchell). Her television credits include recently starring in Antoine Fuqua's King Shaka (Showtime), as well as guest starring on Bull (CBS) and Smilf (Showtime). For Ehioma. @nkekio

MICHAEL PARK*, Finn

Shocked it’s taken this long to get to LA

JOLLA!! Off-Broadway: Hello Again, Violet, Burnt Part Boys. Broadway: Carousel, Smokey Joe’s Cafe (Grammy), Little Me, How to Succeed..., Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Tuck Everlasting, Dear Evan Hansen (Grammy) TV: As the World Turns (Emmy), The Good Wife, House of Cards, Mindhunter, You, Stranger Things Season 3, Tales of the City, The Family, Dash & Lily, Blue Bloods, The Time Traveler’s Wife, Bull, Saint X, Law & Order, Special Ops: Lioness. Wishes to thank his loving family, especially his wife Laurie, for holding down the fort in NY whilst he’s ascending Redwood!

ZACHARY NOAH PISER*, (he/him) Spencer Zach is a Hapa, Jewish actor based in NYC. La Jolla Playhouse: Debut. Broadway/Off-Broadway: Dear Evan Hansen (Evan), KPOP (OBC, Brad), Wicked (Boq), Barrow Street Theatre's West End transfer of Sweeney Todd (Tobias). TV: In Your Dreams (Netflix, upcoming). Zach has also performed at concert venues internationally, including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Shanghai Grand Theatre and more. Bay Area native, Northwestern grad. Love to my team, my family, Adam and Scout. @zach_piser

LANCE ARTHUR SMITH*, (he/him) Understudy: Finn

Broadway LAB: October Sky (also Fight Director). San Diego: Like They Magical (La Jolla Playhouse DNA); How the Grinch Stole Christmas, October Sky, Life After (Old Globe); Spamalot, The Bodyguard, My Fair Lady (Welk); Million Dollar Quartet, Around the World in 80 Days (Lamb’s Players); La Cage aux Folles, Bed and Sofa (Cygnet); Victor/Victoria, Mamma Mia!, Guys and Dolls (Moonlight); Intimate Apparel (San Diego Rep); Tomfoolery, Romance/Romance (North Coast Rep); A Piece of My Heart (Mo`olelo); Tuesdays with Morrie (Vista’s Broadway Theater). Regional: Julius Caesar (Kingsmen Shakespeare); The Merry Wives of Windsor, The Merchant of Venice (ARK); Carousel, Grease (PCPA).

TINA LANDAU, (she/her) Book/Lyrics/Concept/Direction is a writer and director whose Broadway credits include the The Spongebob Musical (also conceiver; Drama Desk & Outer Critics Circle winner, Best Direction and Best Musical, 12 Tony Award noms), Tracy Letts’ Superior Donuts, Bells Are Ringing (Tony noms), and the upcoming premiere of Paula Vogel’s Mother Play with Jessica Lange (Second Stage). Tina has written and directed productions, including the musicals Floyd Collins (with composer Adam Guettel, Playwrights Horizons, Old Globe, Goodman) and Dream True (with composer Ricky Ian Gordon, The Vineyard), as well as Ms. Blakk for President (with Tarell McCraney, Steppenwolf Theatre), Space (Steppenwolf, The Taper, The Public), Beauty (La Jolla Playhouse) and Stonewall: Night Variations (En Garde Arts). Her Off-Broadway productions include Bill Irwin and David Shiner’s Old Hats, Chuck Mee’s Big Love and Iphigenia 2.0 (all Signature), Paula Vogel’s A Civil War Christmas (NYTW), and many works by Tarell McCraney including Head of Passes, In the Red and Brown Water (both at the Public) and Wig Out! (Vineyard). Most recently, Tina directed the musical Transparent at CTG in Los Angeles. She has been an Artist-in-Residence at Little Island in NYC and is an ensemble member at Steppenwolf Theatre, where her over 20 productions include McCraney’s The Brother/Sister Plays, The Time of Your Life (also Seattle Rep, ACT), The Wheel with Joan Allen and The Doppelganger with Rainn Wilson. Tina’s work has been recognized by the Tonys, Drama Desks, Drama League, Outer Critics Circle, Lucille Lortel, Obies and many more. She teaches regularly and is the author, with Anne Bogart, of The Viewpoints Book.

KATE DIAZ, Composer/Lyricist/Orchestrator/Arranger/Vocals for “Stella” and “The Trees”

is an LA-based composer-songwriter-producer. A newcomer to musical theatre, Kate has written songs and scores for film and TV, as well as for trailers and commercials. She orchestrates, arranges and produces for herself and others, and is also a session vocalist and guitarist.

KIMBERLY GRIGSBY, Music Supervisor

La Jolla Playhouse: Debut. Broadway: Days of Wine and Roses, Camelot, Here Lies Love, Flying Over Sunset, To Kill a Mockingbird, Head Over Heels, Amélie, Spider-Man: Turn off the Dark, Spring Awakening (OBC), The Light in the Piazza, Caroline, or Change (OBC), The Full Monty, You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, Twelfth Night (score by Jeanine Tesori). Off-Broadway: The Immigrant, The Fortress of Solitude, Coraline.

HALEY BENNETT, Music Director/Conductor

Recently named one of Broadway's Women to Watch, Haley Bennett is an NYC-based Music Supervisor, Conductor, Arranger and Coordinator. La Jolla Playhouse: Diana: The Musical, Escape to Margaritaville. Broadway: & Juliet, Diana: The Musical, Come From Away, Once on This Island, Escape to Margaritaville, Dear Evan Hansen, Anastasia, Bandstand, Paramour, Finding Neverland, Pippin and The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess. Film/TV credits include Schmigadoon!, Jesus Christ Superstar Live! and Peter Pan Live!. As Music Coordinator: The Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Austen’s Pride (Carnegie Hall), Aladdin (National Tour) and various projects for NBCUniversal. As an Album & Recording Coordinator/Supervisor, Haley has overseen several original Broadway cast recordings, including the Grammynominated MJ: The Musical and the Grammy Award-winning Dear Evan Hansen. B.A. in Psychology, Harvard University. @haleybmusic

JASON ARDIZZONE-WEST, Scenic Designer

Off Broadway: Monsoon Wedding (St Ann’s Warehouse); Shadow/Land, The Michaels, Illyria, The Gabriels (The Public); Elyria (Atlantic Theater); Wedding Band (TFANA); The Michaels Abroad, Uncle Vanya (Hunter); Good Grief (Vineyard). National Tours: Blue Man Group, Bullets Over Broadway. Regional: I Am Delivered’t, Party People, Once on This Island (ATL); Scrooge (ATC); Our Town (Syracuse); From the Mississippi Delta (Westport); K-I-S-S-I-N-G, The Bluest Eye (Huntington); Grace (Fords); Bliss (5th Ave); School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play (Berkeley); Uncle Vanya (Old Globe). Film/TV/Concerts: Jesus Christ Superstar Live! (Emmy); Usher; Phish; Florence + The Machine; Lana Del Rey; Pentatonix, Dermot Kennedy.

TONI-LESLIE JAMES, Costume Designer

La Jolla Playhouse: The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical, Come From Away, Glengarry Glen Ross, Milk Like Sugar. Broadway: Birthday Candles, Paradise Square, Thoughts of a Colored Man, Bernhardt/Hamlet, Come From Away, Jitney, Amazing Grace, Lucky Guy, The Scottsboro Boys, Finian’s Rainbow, Chita Rivera: The Dancer’s Life, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, King Hedley II, One Mo’ Time, The Wild Party, Marie Christine, Footloose, The Tempest, Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992, Angels in America, Chronicle of a Death Foretold, Jelly’s Last Jam and The Old Man and the Pool. Awards: four Tony nominations, Drama Desk Award, Lucille Lortel Award and two Hewes Design Awards.

SCOTT ZIELINSKI, Lighting Designer

La Jolla Playhouse: An Iliad, Beauty. Broadway: Oklahoma!, Topdog/Underdog. US: most New York and regional theatres. International: Adelaide, Amsterdam, Avignon, Beijing, Berlin, Bregenz, Edinburgh, Fukuoka, Gennevilliers, Hamburg, Hong Kong, Istanbul, Linz, Ljubljana, London, Lyon, Melbourne, Orleans, Oslo, Ottawa, Paris, Rennes, Reykjavik, Rotterdam, Rouen, St. Gallen, Seoul, Singapore, Shanghai, Shizuoka, Stockholm, Stuttgart, Sydney, Taipei, Tokyo, Toronto, Vienna, Vilnius. Upcoming: Song of Rome (Spoleto); Les Paravents (l’Odeon Paris).

THE COMPANY

JONATHAN DEANS, Sound Designer

has a wealth of experience with Sound Design. He has worked on many musical productions on Broadway and the West End, and plays and spectaculars worldwide, such as sixteen productions of Cirque du Soleil. His ability to create immersive soundscapes has earned him a reputation as one of the leading sound designers in the entertainment industry. He is known for his attention to detail and ability to seamlessly integrate sound into the overall production, elevating the music and the audience's experience. www.designingsound.com

HANA S. KIM, Media Designer

La Jolla Playhouse: SUMO. Broadway: The Old Man and the Pool, Summer 1976. Off-Broadway/New York: The Harder They Come, Eve's Song, The Visitor – Lucille Lortel Award nomination (Public Theater); Everything Rises (BAM); Magdalene (Prototype Festival). New Music/Opera: L’Orfeo (Santa Fe Opera), Sweet Land (The Industry), The Anonymous Lover (LA Opera). Regional: Geffen Playhouse, OSF, South Coast Rep, Magic Theatre, A.C.T., among others. Awards: Princess Grace Award, Sherwood Award from CTG, Helen Hayes Award, LA Drama Critics Circle Distinguished Achievement Award, among others. hananow.com

GEO BRIAN HENNINGS, Hair Designer

is one of New York City's most sought after stylists. His expertise in hair and makeup has led him to be signed with The Wall Group agency where he works with NYC's top photographers and celebrities. He was recognized for his creative flair and knowledge of beauty on Broadway's Spiderman, which led him to work with Idina Menzel as her personal hair and makeup artist on her three world tours. Geo’s versatile styling, precision cuts and wig mastery have gained him an impressive roster of diverse clients from New York City’s elite entertainment industry. In 2019 he became the hair and makeup supervisor on Tina – The Tina Turner Musical, and most recently the revival of Funny Girl on Broadway. Geo continues to work with clients in TV and film, such as Gossip Girl reboot, fashion, theatre and music.

MELECIO ESTRELLA, BANDALOOP, (he/him) Vertical Movement and Staging

As Artistic Director of BANDALOOP, Melecio directs and choreographs site specific vertical performances on cliffs, buildings, bridges and trees around the world. La Jolla Playhouse: Debut. Recent world premieres: Resurgam (St. Paul’s Cathedral, London), Bird Strike (Teatro A Mil Santiago, Chile), LOOM:FIELD (International tour), Momentum Curve (BMW Headquarters, Munich, Germany). Founded in 1991, BANDALOOP is an innovator of vertical dance, tours widely and offers vibrant educational programs at BANDALOOP Studios in Oakland, CA.

THE TELSEY OFFICE, PATRICK GOODWIN, CSA, Casting

With offices in both New York and Los Angeles, The Telsey Office casts for theatre, film, television and commercials. The Telsey Office is dedicated to creating safe, equitable and antiracist spaces through collaboration, artistry, heart, accountability and advocacy.

LORA K. POWELL*, Stage Manager

returns to La Jolla Playhouse for Redwood, having previously stage managed to the yellow house and Here There Are Blueberries. Selected credits: Blithe Spirit (w/ Angela Lansbury) and Wicked (national tours). Broadway: Chicago, The Life, Annie Get Your Gun (w/ Bernadette Peters). Los Angeles: The Lion King, The Producers (w/ Jason Alexander and Martin Short), Wicked, Amélie, An Act of God (w/ Sean Hayes), Harmony, The Scottsboro Boys, Seminar (w/ Jeff Goldblum), Follies, Bill Irwin’s On Beckett, Parfumerie, Carrie The Killer Musical Experience, The Christopher Boy’s Communion (written and directed by David Mamet). Lora is a member of UCSD’s faculty in the department of Theatre & Dance.

TOPAZ COOKS*, (she/her) Assistant Stage Manager

La Jolla Playhouse: to the yellow house; Kristina Wong, Sweatshop Overlord; Love All; The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical. Regional: Cymbeline, Intimate Apparel (Utah Shakespeare Festival); Akeelah and the Bee (Children's Theatre Company); Romeo and Juliet, How The Grinch Stole Christmas! (The Old Globe); The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, Trouble in Mind (Clarence Brown Theater); Miracle on 34th Street, Memphis, Something Rotten! (Moonlight Stage Productions). B.F.A. from U of MN, Duluth. M.F.A. from UC San Diego.

CHRISTOPHER ASHLEY, (he/him) The Rich Family Director of La Jolla Playhouse has served as La Jolla Playhouse’s Artistic Director since 2007. During his tenure, he directed the world premieres of Come From Away, The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical, Diana: The Musical, Memphis, Escape to Margaritaville, The Squirrels, A Dram of Drummhicit, Restoration and Chasing the Song, as As You Like It, His Girl Friday, Glengarry Glen Ross, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Freaky Friday and Xanadu. He also spearheaded the Playhouse’s Without Walls (WOW) initiative, the DNA New Work Series and the Resident Theatre program. Mr. Ashley recently directed Come From Away for AppleTV+

Diana: The Musical for Netflix. Other screen credits include Jeffrey and Lucky Stiff, and the American Playhouse production of Blown Sideways Through Life for PBS. Mr. Ashley’s Broadway credits include Come From Away (Tony and Outer Critics Circle Awards), Diana: The Musical, Escape to Margaritaville, Memphis (Tony Award nomination), Xanadu, Leap of Faith (Drama Desk Award nomination), All Shook Up and The Rocky Horror Show (Tony, Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle Award nominations). He also helmed productions of Come From Away in London (Olivier Award nomination), Toronto, Australia and on national tour. Other national tours include Escape to Margaritaville, Memphis, Xanadu, All Shook Up and Seussical: The Musical. Additional New York stage credits include Blown Sideways Through Life, Jeffrey (Lucille Lortel and Obie Awards), The Most Fabulous Story Ever Told, Valhalla (Lucille Lortel Award nomination), Regrets Only, Wonder of the World, Communicating Doors, Bunny Bunny, The Night Hank Williams Died and Fires in the Mirror (Lucille Lortel Award), among others. Mr. Ashley is the recipient of the Princess Grace Award, the Drama League Director Fellowship and an NEA/TCG Director Fellowship.

DES McANUFF, (he/him) Director Emeritus is a two-time Tony Award-winning director and served as La Jolla Playhouse’s Artistic Director from 1983 through 1994, and from 2001 through April 2007 where he staged over 30 productions of classics, new plays and musicals. Under his leadership, the Playhouse garnered the Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre. He is also the former Artistic Director of Canada’s Stratford Festival and co-founder of Broadway’s Dodgers. Broadway: Ain’t Too Proud, Summer, Doctor Zhivago, Jesus Christ Superstar, Guys and Dolls, Aaron Sorkin’s The Farnsworth Invention, Jersey Boys (Tony and Olivier Awards: Best Musical), Billy Crystal’s 700 Sundays (Tony Award: Best Special Theatrical Event), Dracula the Musical, How to Succeed..., The Who’s Tommy (Tony and Olivier Awards: Best Director), A Walk in the Woods, Big River (Tony Awards: Best Director, Best Musical). Selected New York: Fetch Clay, Make Man (NYTW); multiple productions at The Public and BAM. Stratford highlights: A Word or Two, Caesar and Cleopatra, The Tempest (all with Christopher Plummer), Twelfth Night (with Brian Dennehy). Opera: Faust (The Met, ENO). TV: 700 Sundays (HBO). Film: Cousin Bette (director, with Jessica Lange), The Iron Giant (producer, BAFTA Award) and Quills (executive producer). He has an honorary doctorate from Ryerson University (now Toronto Metropolitan University), and in 2012, he was awarded Canada’s Governor Generals National Arts Center Award and the Order of Canada. His new version of The Who’s Tommy will be on Broadway in 2024.

PLAYHOUSE LEADERSHIP

DEBBY BUCHHOLZ, (she/her) Managing Director of La Jolla Playhouse

joined the Playhouse in 2002, serving first as General Manager before becoming Managing Director. She is a Vice President of the League of Resident Theaters (LORT) and a member of its Executive Committee. She is a recipient of a San Diego Women Who Mean Business Award from The San Diego Business Journal. Prior to joining La Jolla Playhouse, she served as Counsel to The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and the National Symphony Orchestra in Washington, D.C. She was a faculty member of the Smithsonian Institution’s program on Legal Problems of Museum Administration. Prior to The Kennedy Center, she served as a corporate attorney in New York City and Washington, D.C. She is a graduate of UC San Diego and Harvard Law School. Ms. Buchholz and her husband, noted author and White House economic policy advisor Todd Buchholz, live in Solana Beach and are the proud parents of Victoria, Katherine and Alexia.

ERIC KEEN-LOUIE, (he/him) Executive Producer joined the Playhouse in 2018 as Producing Director, before becoming Executive Producer in 2021. He previously worked at The Old Globe (Associate Producer and Associate Artistic Director) and The Public Theater (Assistant to the Associate Producer and Director of Special Projects). He assisted Broadway producer Margo Lion on Hairspray and Caroline, or Change. He is a graduate of Columbia University where he received his M.F.A. in Theatre Management & Producing as a Dean’s Fellow and New York University where he earned a B.A. in Dramatic Literature. He serves as Secretary on the National Alliance of Musical Theatre’s Board of Directors. He is a proud third-generation Chinese-American and is married to Anthony Keen-Louie, a local mediator and Associate Ombuds at UC Santa Cruz.

LA JOLLA PLAYHOUSE

is a place where artists and audiences come together to create what’s new and next in the American theatre, from Tony Award-winning productions, to imaginative programs for young audiences, to interactive experiences outside our theatre walls. Founded in 1947 by Gregory Peck, Dorothy McGuire and Mel Ferrer, the Playhouse is currently led by Tony Award winner Christopher Ashley, the Rich Family Artistic Director of La Jolla Playhouse, and Managing Director Debby Buchholz. The Playhouse is internationally renowned for the development of new works, including mounting 110 world premieres, commissioning more than 60 new works, and sending 36 productions to Broadway – among them the hit musical Come From Away – garnering a total of 38 Tony Awards, as well as the 1993 Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre.

AUDIENCE ENGAGEMENT EVENTS REDWOOD

Talkback Tuesdays

Participate in a lively discussion with performers and Playhouse staff members immediately following these performances.

Tuesday, February 20 and 27 after the 7:30 pm performances

Access Performance

On select performances, La Jolla Playhouse provides American Sign Language interpretation for audience members who are d/Deaf or hard-of-hearing and audio description for patrons who are blind or have low vision.

Saturday, March 2 at 2:00 pm

Discovery Sunday

Join special guest speakers post-performance as they engage audience members in a moderated discussion exploring the themes in the play.

Sunday, March 10 after the 2:00 pm performance

VALUES STATEMENT

Welcome to La Jolla Playhouse, where we believe that stories enhance the human experience, instill empathy and help us see the world in new ways. We respect all races, ethnicities, cultures, physical/cognitive abilities, ages, genders and identities, and endeavor to be an anti-racist and accessible organization that removes barriers to engagement. As a community of life-long learners who celebrate the spirit of play, we innovate and collaborate to bring theatre to life.

We practice empathy by listening, challenging our assumptions and staying open to all perspectives.

We respect and recognize the complexities of all lived experiences, identities and cultural backgrounds. We honor the Kumeyaay Nation, the original caretakers of the land on which our theaters sit. We will fight against anti-blackness, the many forms of racism directed at BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) and all types of discrimination and harassment, to be a more inclusive space where everyone feels welcome onstage and off.

We work with our community to identify, understand and address ways to make our theatre more equitable and accessible.

We infuse the spirit of play into everything we do, sparking creativity, fun and life-long learning.

We innovate and take risks to propel theatre as an art form and as a pathway toward fostering belonging and enhancing human connection.

We collaborate by prioritizing inclusive practices from which diverse voices, talents and ideas can strengthen engagement and creative thinking.

We vow to grow and embrace these values. When we falter, we will hold ourselves accountable through transparent communication, measurable outcomes, selfreflection and humility. With great joy and a strong sense of responsibility, we commit to these values in every aspect of our work.

MISSION STATEMENT

La Jolla Playhouse advances theatre as an art form, telling stories that inspire empathy and create a dialogue toward a more just future. With our intrepid spirit and eclectic, artist-driven approach we will continue to cultivate a local, national and global following with an insatiable appetite for audacious work.

We provide unfettered creative opportunities for a community of artists of all backgrounds and abilities. We are committed to being a permanent safe harbor for unsafe and surprising work, offering a glimpse of the new and the next in American theatre.

THE ORIGINAL FACE OF NATURE

GG: Your organization is called Save the Redwoods League. How are the redwoods in danger?

SH: Some of these trees are more than 2,000 years old. In fact, there are some giant sequoia that are more than 3,000 years old; they were mature trees during the time of the Roman Empire. So the trees themselves are incredibly old, but the forest itself is truly ancient: prehistoric, millions of years old. And after eons of change across millennia, the habitat and circumstances for the coast redwood forests have constrained them to just a narrow band on the coast of California and a little bit up into Oregon, and a few patches of giant sequoia groves on the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountains, all in California. They don’t grow naturally anywhere else in the world. They’re the tallest and some of the oldest living organisms on the planet. The tallest coast redwood tree is over 380 feet tall and still growing.

They’re extraordinarily unique, they are inspiring beyond measure, and they are directly under threat. We’ve already lost more than 95% of the old-growth coast redwood forest to commercial harvest over the last 160 years. And across more than one million acres of young coast redwood forest, that commercial harvest continues to this day. Save the Redwoods League has been around for the last 105 years, working exclusively to protect all that we can of the redwood forest that is left.

GG: How do redwoods play a larger role in their ecosystem –and in ours?

A conversation between Save the Redwoods League’s President/CEO Sam

Hodder and Director of Artistic Development Gabriel Greene.

SH: We’re all struggling with a changing climate and the proliferation of carbon in the atmosphere. In our Redwoods and Climate Change Initiative, where we worked with scientists to climb into the canopies of the old-growth redwood trees and study their response to a changing climate, we’ve learned that the old-growth coast redwood forest sequesters more carbon per acre than any other forest in the world – by a long shot. Think of an annual layer of new wood across a surface area of a 380-foot tall tree, with limbs that can be bigger than the biggest trees in any other state in the union. Expand that across an entire forest and that is a huge annual accumulation of carbon. Furthermore, when a redwood tree falls after thousands of years of growth, it can stay lying on the ground for centuries because its red heartwood is so resistant to decay. That heartwood carbon that’s locked in across thousands of years is sequestered for centuries in the wood of ancient redwood trees.

Also, their canopies have become these huge surfaces where leaves start to decay and form topsoil, on which seeds can find purchase. That’s created a whole ecosystem, suspended in the air hundreds of feet above the ground. There are fern mats and huckleberry bushes and other things growing in the topsoil up in the crown that can absorb thousands of gallons of water – it’s like a whole other supported wetland in the crowns of these trees. They found all sorts of species that we didn’t even know existed, including a particular kind of salamander that never comes down to earth; it’s always just up in the crowns of the

redwood trees. And they found a mature Douglas fir tree growing on a limb in the crown of a mature redwood tree.

When we think of the redwood forest, we think of this uniform cathedral of straight trunks, and yet there’s this remarkable complexity, this unique ecosystem that has been here and only here for literally millions of years. These trees have faced fire and storms and wind across centuries, and yet still they survive. This is the beacon of resilience. This is nature and healing at its most extraordinary.

GG: You’ve segued perfectly into my next question, which is about the relationship between redwoods and fire. Fire can pose benefits as well as dangers to the redwoods, right?

SH: It really does. It’s a very different story between the coast redwood and the giant sequoia up in the Sierra. They both not only have adapted to fire, but have grown to rely on it. For the coast redwood, it allows them to outcompete other species. Their bark is so thick, their crowns are so high, and they have the ability to survive even when almost 90% of the circumference of their bark has been burned. You can walk through an old-growth redwood forest and see these hollowed-out caves in trees that are still alive, even though you can walk inside them and look up a chimney and see out the top.

With the giant sequoia, their cones only open and their seeds can only find purchase on the clean mineral soil that has been cleared off by

a low- or even mid-intensity fire. They’re not only adapted to fire, but they need it in order to reproduce. There’s been fire in California for millions of years, both natural fires and indigenous burning that was intentional in order to create the habitat for species that they relied on for food. But the fires of today are more intense than ever before. The fires of the last few years have actually killed giant sequoia when even just ten or fifteen years ago, that would’ve been unheard of because they’re so resilient.

The fires of 2020 were unlike anything we’ve ever seen. In the coast redwood forest of the Santa Cruz mountains where Big Basin Redwoods State Park is, there were thousands of lightning strikes in one night and then 80 mph winds that took flames through the redwood forest and into the crown. But even after that high-intensity fire that burned off every single needle of some of these ancient redwood trees, the next spring they were green again.

We’ve learned that under the bark of coast redwood trees are latent buds that are centuries old, just sitting and waiting. And sure enough, when that fire came through, those buds all burst into greenery and now the Big Basin redwood forest is back in action, scarred by fire, but alive and well.

That resilience is part of the redwoods' super powers. Even though we've lost 95% of the old growth in the redwood range to harvest, most of the forest is still there and trying to growing back; it's just very young. It’s been clear cut multiple times, but it’s the very same redwoods growing out of the very same roots that are trying to grow old again. If we can protect and steward it well, it can be the old growth of the future that provides that fire resilience that we know we’re going to need, given how the climate is changing.

GG: What are some of the specific roles that your organization plays in the protection and restoration of the forest and the trees?

SH: We’re lucky enough to have been around for 105 years and are looking to the next hundred years with a vision in which the coast redwood forest and giant sequoia are protected forever, restored to grow old again, and connected to all of us through a network of parks and protected spaces that inspire the world with the beauty and power of nature. We are actively negotiating to acquire redwood forest land and take it out of harm’s way, out of the path of commercial harvest and on a restoration trajectory to grow old again. It’s extraordinary how quickly these forests can recover if you just remove that threat of harvest and roads and subdivisions and development.

In addition to protecting and restoring these forests, we’re very active in science, learning more about how to be good stewards of this landscape. Most importantly, we’re connecting people to these places through both the creation and improvement of parks and campgrounds and trail systems, but also the programs and the outreach connections that make the full diversity of California feel welcomed in these places – and to ensure that the indigenous communities that have lived and worked and thrived in the redwood ecosystem and are still deeply connected to this landscape, are centered in our conservation efforts.

GG: You’ve talked about the inspiration that comes from bearing witness to the majesty of these trees. Are there specific things you have personally learned from the redwoods?

SH: There are two quotes that I’ve always admired. One of our founders called the redwood forest “the original face of nature.” The other quote was from one of the leading advocates for the creation of Redwood National Park, who said, “When a person goes into a redwood grove, they come out a better person.”

Those two quotes really reflect my sense of wonder and my sense of personal and philosophical

connection with the redwood forest. When you walk into a redwood grove and see that vulnerability and resilience, that color and beauty and the humbling perspective of truly ancient living things, you get a sense that you have walked into a natural community that has been thriving across history. That is both compelling and sometimes overpowering. And the deeper you get into the forest, there’s a sense of settling in, a sense of perspective, of calmness that belies the majesty and the superlative nature of the place. There’s just a slowing of the heartbeat. There’s a settling of anxiety. It’s a place where perspective comes to your heart.

The redwood park I visit most is Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park in the Oakland Hills. There's a sense of resilience that you get, seeing these huge trees that popped up from the stumps of ancient redwoods that were among the tallest in the world. They’re clambering back, they’re showing such vigor, such a will to live, with all the inspiration and aesthetic of an old-growth forest, but in a young, urban park. That sense of resilience, of bouncing back from trauma, of regaining grandeur is rejuvenative. And as you walk the trails of this park, where the people of Oakland take their recreation, people of all ages and from all walks of life just being inspired by the beauty and power of nature in that unique redwood environment, it’s a really transformative experience. 

Save the Redwoods League’s President/CEO Sam Hodder

COAST REDWOODS...

…ARE GIANT

Redwoods are the tallest living things on the planet. The tallest known living redwood stands at 380.3 ft, almost six stories taller than the Statue of Liberty.

…ARE ANCIENT

Redwoods have been around for an estimated 240 million years, when dinosaurs still roamed the land. The earliest redwoods appeared on earth before flowers, birds, spiders, and, of course, humans.

…WERE ONCE INTERNATIONAL

The coast redwood’s only remaining natural habitat is on the Pacific Coast from Big Sur to southern Oregon. Redwoods once had a much wider range, including western North America and the coasts of Europe and Asia.

…WERE DECIMATED

Only 5% of the trees that originally populated the coastal regions are left. Because redwoods are extremely resistant to fire, insects, and rot, they are treasured for building and 95% of them have been cut down since the 1850s.

…LIVED IN HARMONY WITH THE INDIGENOUS PEOPLES OF THE REGION

Redwoods are integral to the practical and spiritual lives of many tribal communities along the Northern California coast, who have made the redwood forests their home since “time immemorial.” The harmonious relationship between the redwoods and humans was violently altered following European (and later, American) westward expansion. The land now labeled by the United States as Humboldt County was home to the Yurok, Karuk, Tolowa, Wiyot, Hupa, Mattole, Wailaki and many other indigenous peoples who were exterminated or forcibly removed from their homelands.

…TAKE CARE OF EACH OTHER

Not only do the shallow roots of the redwood connect with others for support, but the roots can also sprout and nurture new redwood trees. Redwoods can often be seen growing in circles, known as “fairy rings” or “family circles” because they sprouted from the roots of a “mother tree.”

…HOST SKY-HIGH WORLDS

Entire ecosystems exist high within the redwood’s branches. The canopy ecosystem was virtually unexplored and undocumented until the late 1990s when it was discovered that hundreds of plants and even other full-sized trees (Cascara, Sitka Spruce, Douglas Fir, Western Hemlock, and more) were living in the canopies of redwoods. The redwood canopy is also home to a large variety of birds, small mammals, insects, and even the Wandering Salamander, who lives its entire life in the canopy of one tree.

…ARE OUR ALLIES IN FIGHTING CLIMATE CHANGE

Redwoods capture more carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere than any other tree on the planet. They transform that carbon dioxide – the leading cause of accelerating climate change – into the oxygen we breathe. There can be up to 890 metric tons of carbon stored per acre of old-growth redwood forest, which is the estimated equivalent of taking about 700 passenger vehicles off the road for a year.

"To shine a light on these giants is to illuminate ourselves."

– Richard Preston, The Wild Trees

Sources include: Redwood Facts at Sempervirens Fund, About Redwoods at Save the Redwoods League, the papers of Stephen C. Sillett, STEM Humboldt, The Wild Trees by Richard Preston, Coast Redwood: a Natural and Cultural History by Michael Barbour, Treehugger.com, plus more.

BOARD SPOTLIGHT WHY I SUPPORT THE PLAYHOUSE

It has been my privilege and honor to serve and support La Jolla Playhouse for over three decades, as a donor, Board Chair and Gala Chair. I am passionate about the vision that Christopher Ashley has for La Jolla Playhouse, focused on bringing what’s new and next to American Theater. His relentless dedication to new work is illustrated through the many programs he has put into place during his tenure here, from the DNA New Work Series, to the wildly successful WOW Festival, to other noteworthy projects that have now become integrated into the very fabric of the organization.

My husband Bill and I enjoy attending events at the Playhouse, and I’m delighted to be co-chairing this year’s Gala (along with Randy Camp) that will be featuring Broadway legend Idina Menzel. Thank you to all of the patrons with us tonight, who continue to support the extraordinary work of La Jolla Playhouse. I know that you join me in celebrating the joy La Jolla Playhouse brings to our lives and that, like us, you’ll continue to support the Playhouse for years to come.

LA JOLLA PLAYHOUSE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

SHERI L. JAMIESON Chair

DENISE BEVERS

First Vice-Chair

MICHAEL FLASTER

Second Vice-Chair

ANNIE ELLIS Secretary

SCOTT M. STANTON, Mintz Treasurer

TRUSTEES

Christopher Ashley**

Susan Gembrowski Baker**

Michael Bartell

Ralph Bryan*

Debby Buchholz**

Randy Camp

Robert Caplan

Seltzer Caplan McMahon Vitek

Ann Cathcart Chaplin

Qualcomm

Randall Clark*

Sempra

Mary Coleman**

Stephen Coleman

PNC Bank

Doug Dawson

Edward A. Dennis, Ph.D.

Brian Dovey (1941-2023)

Susan Dubé

Hal Dunning

Emily Einhorn

Ray Flores**

Judy Garrett

Justin Gleiberman

Lynn E. Gorguze

Luke Gulley, Show Imaging, Inc.

Kay Gurtin

Clark Guy

Bank of America Private Bank

Dean Haas

Dwight Hare

Osborn L. Hurston, US Bank

Debby Jacobs

Joan Jacobs

Pradeep K. Khosla, Ph.D.**

Chancellor, UC San Diego

Veronica Leff

Bena Leslie**

Lynelle Lynch*

Margret McBride*

Lorne Polger

Karen A. Quiñones

David I. Reynoso**

Becky Robbins

Shane Shelley, Morrison Foerster

Karen Silberman

Delicia Turner Sonnenberg**

Suzi Sterner**, UC San Diego

Andy Thomas, Evans Hotels

Erin Trenda, Cooley, LLP

Mary Walshok, Ph.D.

UC San Diego

HONORARY TRUSTEES

Peter Cowhey, Ph.D.

UC San Diego

Ivan Gayler

John Goodman

Jeanne Jones

Julie Potiker

Steven M. Strauss*

Geri Ann Warnke*

Gary Wollberg*

Robert Wright, Esq. Wright, L’Estrange & Ergastolo

EMERITUS TRUSTEES

Rita Bronowski (1917-2010)

David Copley (1952-2012)

Ted Cranston (1940-2012)

Milton Fredman (1920-2005)

Ewart W. Goodwin, Jr.* (1938- 2019)

Joel Holliday* (1939-2022)

Marian Jones Longstreth (1906-1997)

Hughes Potiker (1925-2005)

Sheila Potiker (1930-2011)

Jeffrey Ressler* (1943-2022)

Ellen Revelle (1910-2009)

Roger Revelle (1909-1991)

Willard P. VanderLaan, M.D.* (1917-2012)

Arthur Wagner, Ph.D. (1923-2015)

Mandell Weiss (1891-1993)

1947 FOUNDERS

Mel Ferrer

Dorothy McGuire

Gregory Peck

*Past Chair of the Board

**Ex-Officio

List as of July 24, 2023

Top row: Matthew Broderick, Ellie Kemper, Randy Clark, Evan Clark; Hal and Hilary Dunning. Bottom row: Lynn Gorguze and family; Gala Committee 2024.

REDWOOD PRODUCTION SPONSORS

Denise and Lon Bevers

We are thrilled to sponsor the work of Broadway icon Idina Menzel, award-winning director Tina Landau, acclaimed composer Kate Diaz, and the incredible cast of Redwood. This oneof-a-kind theatrical event spotlights what La Jolla Playhouse does best…bringing the new and the next in innovation to American theatre. We think you will find the infectious passion that this creative team has for saving the redwood trees to be inspiring!

Kay and Bill Gurtin

We are excited to soar into the legacy and majestic heights of the Redwood(s) production! A groundbreaking score and story where Nature can help us heal, if we can learn to listen and protect her grandeur and beauty. La Jolla Playhouse's innovative artistic team continually brings Broadway brilliance with Tina Landau, Idina Menzel, Kate Diaz and an incredible cast to our La Jolla stage. Supporting this production is a pleasure and a thrill as Redwood will not only entertain you, but also awaken your sense of renewal and adventure.

Rebecca Moores

I have been a sponsor of the arts, and in particular La Jolla Playhouse, for years. I have a deep regard for the preservation of trees but also appreciate a good story about a woman helping to find herself through a cross-country journey into nature. And then there is Idina Menzel! What more could we want. It is my pleasure and honor to help bring this production to life!

It is my pleasure to support the production of Redwood with Broadway legend, Idina Menzel. This world-premiere new musical highlights and celebrates the work of La Jolla Playhouse in bringing the new and the next to San Diego. Redwood brings inspiration and vision to the healing world of nature.

This play is a recipient of an Edgerton Foundation New Play Award which gives world premieres extra funds for an extended rehearsal time. The program rewards excellent scripts in the hope that with a more polished performance, they will join the American canon of frequently produced plays.

As one of the largest corporate supporters of the arts, Bank of America has been a longtime partner of the historic La Jolla Playhouse, and the proud presenting sponsor of Redwood and its powerhouse all-female creative team. Bank of America believes that the arts matter as both local economic drivers and contributors to social exchange.

It is our privilege and honor to help sponsor Redwood this year. We are continually impressed with the La Jolla Playhouse's commitment to women, where remarkable stories are told. Cheers to a great season ahead!

Show Imaging is a proud supporter of La Jolla Playhouse. We have a mutual mission to push the boundaries of storytelling through the power of technology.

Jordan Ressler Charitable Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation

LA JOLLA PLAYHOUSE: ANNUAL SUPPORT FROM INDIVIDUALS

THE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR'S CIRCLE - $100,000 AND ABOVE

Roberta C. Baade Charitable Fund

Denise and Lon Bevers

Theodor S. and Audrey S. Geisel Fund

Hanna and Mark Gleiberman

Kay and Bill Gurtin

Jeanne L. Herberger, Ph.D.

Debby and Hal Jacobs

Joan and Irwin Jacobs

Sheri L. Jamieson

La Atalaya Fund

Rebecca Moores Foundation

Jordan Ressler Charitable Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation

SEASON SPONSORS$50,000+

Weston Anson, in memory of Susan Bailey Anson

Michael Bartell and Melissa Garfield Bartell

Gail and Ralph Bryan

Brian and Silvija Devine

Estate of Pauline Foster

Laurie Gore and Julie Osman, Mission Valley Community Foundation

Lynn Gorguze and Scott Peters

Perlmeter Family Foundation

Karen and Jeff Silberman

Molli Wagner

PLAYWRIGHTS CIRCLE$25,000+

The Paula Marie Black

Endowment for Women's Voices in the Art of Theatre

Susan E. Dubé

Doris and Peter Ellsworth, Legler Benbough Fund, San Diego Foundation

Dwight Hare and Stephanie Bergsma

Jeff and Carolyn Levin

Lynelle and William Lynch

Margret and Nevins McBride

Maryanne and Irwin Pfister

Julie and Lowell Potiker Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation

Peggy Ann Wallace

LEADERSHIP CIRCLE$15,000+

Tony and Margaret Acampora

Christopher Ashley and Ranjit Bahadur

Stern Leichter Foundation

Debby and Todd Buchholz

Randy Camp and Susan Tousi

Ann Cathcart Chaplin

Randall and Michael Clark

Karen and Donald Cohn

Amy Corton and Carl Eibl

Drs. Edward and Martha Dennis

Elizabeth and Brian Dovey

Hal and Hilary Dunning

Daniel and Emily Einhorn

Annie and Charles Ellis

Michael and Susanna Flaster

Bill and Judy Garrett

Justin Gleiberman

Dean J. Haas

Paul and Geneviève Jacobs

Jay Jeffcoat

Veronica and Miguel Leff, Esq.

Lorne Polger and Lori Weiner

Teresa and Byron Pollitt

Becky Lynne Robbins Charitable Fund

Colette and Ivor Royston

Robin and Larry Rusinko

Swanna and Alan Saltiel, Dan Cameron Family Foundation

Tim and Emily Scott

Pamela J. Wagner and Hans

Tegebo

Mary Lindenstein Walshok, Ph.D.

Sheryl and Harvey P. White

Philip and Margarita Wilkinson

DIRECTORS CIRCLE$10,000+

Anonymous

Gary and Barbara Blake Family Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation

Browar Family Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation

Pamela B. Burkholz

Mary and Adam Cherry, Big Blue

Sky Foundation

Doug Dawson

Jendy Dennis Endowment Fund

Robin and Leo Eisenberg Family

Dan and Phyllis Epstein

Sonali and Eric Fain

Wendy Gillespie

Alan and Marleigh Gleicher

Mrs. Ewart (Chip) Goodwin

Tammy and Larry Hershfield

Conner Jacobs

Jess Jacobs

Lindsey Jacobs

Stacy Jacobs

Sherry and Larry Kline, Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation

Christy and Alan Molasky

Lisa and Chris Pedersen

Lee and Stuart Posnock

Brian and Paula Powers

Jeannie and Gerry Ranglas

Judy Robbins

Laleh Roudi

Lynn Schenk

Spielman Family Foundation

Iris and Matthew Strauss

Steven Strauss and Lise Wilson

Barbara ZoBell, in memory of Ellen Whelan

CELEBRATION CIRCLE$5,000+

Lisa and Steven Altman

Rick and Donna Baldridge

Alisa and David Barba, Barba

Charitable Fund

Eric Benson

Joan and Jeremy Berg

Cindy and Steve Blumkin

John and Jackie Bucksbaum

Robert Caplan and Carol

Randolph

Pamela and Edward Carnot

Lisa and David Casey

Maureen and Lawrence Cavaiola

Gary and Marlene Cohen

Jamie Colby and James Richardson

Emily Cole and Amanda

Montgomery

Leslie H. Coll

Brett and Jennifer Dickinson

Marty and Shel Diller

Nina and Bob Doede

Dr. Margo Emami and Mr. Edward Lizano

Mrs. Valerie Ewell Armstrong and Mr. Sam Armstrong

Dennis Field and Douglas Galt

Drs. Bessie and Ron Floyd

Fuson Family Fund at Schwab Charitable

David Newman and Samantha Goldstein, The Jasada Foundation

Beverly Goodman

Carrie and Jim Greenstein

Starr and John Grundy

David and Claire Guggenheim

Richard Heyman and Anne Daigle

Gerald and Ingrid Hoffmeister

Fund, The San Diego Foundation

Rosanne and Joel* Holliday

George and Maryka Hoover

Doug and Gail Hutcheson

Adam and Amy Jacobs

Gina and Kent Johnson

Rise Johnson

Rob and Kathy Jones

Douglas Kimmelman, Kimmelman Family Foundation

Amy and Bill Koman

Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth Labowe, Labowe Family Foundation

Joy and Eric Laws

Brian and Joanna Leddin

Karen and Mark Liebowitz

Danya Lindenfeld, in memory of Jeffrey Ressler

Leslye Lyons

Michael and Catherina Madani

Patsy and David Marino

Brian and Tracy Melekian

Silvana and Alberto Michan

Darlene and James Milligan, Robert Glenn Rapp Foundation

Dr. Howard and Barbara Milstein

Steve and Jerri Nagelberg

Grant and Aradhna Oliphant, The Conrad Prebys Foundation

Susan C. Parker

Bernard Paul and Maria Sardina

Karen Quiñones, The Quiñones

Family Trust

Clare Redlinger

Don and Stacy Rosenberg, Rosenberg Family Fund

Rosenthal Family Fund, Commonwealth Charitable Foundation

Dawn and Phil Rudolph

Rick Sandstrom and Sandy

Timmons

Jay and Julie Sarno

Gad and Suzan Shaanan

Dawn and Ira Smalberg

Elizabeth and Joseph Taft

Revocable Trust

Karen and Stuart Tanz

David and Tina Thomas

Greta and Steve Treadgold

Debbie Turner

Geri Ann Warnke

Richard Winkler

Michael and Lisa Witz

Jill and Bruno Wolfenzon

Meryl and George Young

Debbie S. Zeligson

Diane and Robert Zeps

ACTORS CIRCLE - $2,500+

Anonymous

Dede and Mike Alpert

Barnard Family Charitable Fund

Dr. Kim E. Barrett

Joni and Miles Benickes

Mary and Rolf Benirschke

Liz Bernal and Suzanne LaTour

Steve L. Black and Kristen

Richards-Black

Barbara L. Borden

Michele Braatz

Julie Bronstein, The ARJ Fund of The San Diego Foundation

Loyce R. Bruce

Christa Burke

John and Nancy Jo Cappetta

Gary and Lynette Cederquist

Diane Clarke

Coral Courts Donor Advised Fund, Corinna Cotsen and Lee

Rosenbaum

Peter Cowhey and Margaret

McKeown

Ana De Vedia

Marguerite Jackson Dill

Karen B. Dow

Dr. Robert and Mrs. Ann Dynes

Drs. Marianne and Robert Engle

The Fredman Family

Dr. Benjamin and Sue Frishberg

Laura Galinson and Jodi

Diamond

Joyce M Gattas, Ph.D.

Jim Gilmore

Kimberly and Jeffrey Goldman

Julie Hall, Oklahoma City Community Foundation

Judith and Chris Hamilton

Nishma and John Held

COL. Michael and Diana Hill

Hilary and Selwyn Isakow

Dr. Warren and Karen Kessler

Kali and Paul Kim

Michael H Kossman

Ms. Gale M. Krause, in memory of Jim Krause

Linda Lenhard and Mark Kritchevsky

Helen and Sig Kupka

Samara and Paul Larson

Lisa and Gary Levine

Dr. K.B Lim and Linda Lee Lim Foundation

Sheila and Jeffrey Lipinsky and Family

Lori and Joe Mahler

Holley and Robert Martens, Sandstone Foundation

Dennis A. McConnell

Alice Mitchell

Ilene Mittman, in memory of Dr. Charles Mittman

Marci and Ronnie Morgan

Gregg and Cindy Motsenbocker

Cheryl and Bill Naumann

Arlene and Louis Navia

Mark C. Niblack, MD

Janet and Larry Pollack

Dr. Julie Prazich and Dr. Sara Rosenthal

Dr. William and Marisa

Rastetter

Drs. Sharon Lee and Christopher A. Rhodes Ph.D.

Marilyn and Michael Rosen

Maureen Elizabeth Sheehan

Alan and Esther Siman

Dr. Ed and Evelyn Singer

Dr. Robert Singer, in memory of Judith Harris

Dr. Doris Trauner and Mr. Richard Stanford

Jim and Kathy Waring

Linda Rankin and Rod Whitlow

Gary L. Wollberg and Dr. Yumi Miyamoto

Howard and Judy Ziment

Emma and Leo Zuckerman

INNER CIRCLE - $1,000+

Anonymous

Hon. Louise De Carl Adler

Ahern Capital, LLC

Philip Anderson and Verónica Valdés

Lynell Antrim

Jan and David Arnold

Stephen Miller Baird,MD and Carol Davidson Baird

Ginger and Ken Baldwin

Judith Bambace and Brian Trotier

Barbara Y. Beebe

Cathy and Marc Bern

Carolyn and Giovanni Bertussi

Larry and Cindy Bloch

Paige Bosacki Santos

John and Deborah Brincko

Elizabeth Brummitt and Robert Mellott

Cheryl and Greg Carlson

Kathleen and Joseph Carroll

Cathy and Michael Casteel

Diana Loo and Ted Chan

Kay Chandler

Janet and Maarten Chrispeels

Liz Nederander Coden and Daniel J. Coden, MD

Wayne Saville and Laura Colban

Daniel E Collins and Nancy Shimamoto

Stacy Cromidas and Ruth Gilbert

Gerral and Anne David

Denise and Gary David

Wally and Linda Dieckmann

Dr. Ralph B. Dilley and Brian Danielson

Jodi and Tom Dobron

Mark and Jenny Dowling

Jacqueline and Stanley Drosch

LA JOLLA PLAYHOUSE: ANNUAL SUPPORT FROM INDIVIDUALS

W. Byron and Pamela Dunn

Toby Eisenberg

Jill and Jeffrey Essakow

Jennifer and Kurt Eve

Karen and Steven Feitelberg

Dieter Fischer's Mercedes

Service, Inc.

Paula Fitzgerald and Chris Nielsen

Ray Flores

Susan Forsburg and Lisa

Churchill

Maygan Fowler

Catherine R. Friedman

Jan and Helane Fronek

Valerie and Gregory Frost

Fran and Nick Frost

Brent Garcia and Alex Yanez

Steven and Cheryl Garfin

Tom and Carolina Gildred

Pat and Norm Gillespie

Kathy and Gregg Glaser

Fred and Lisa Goldberg

Drs. Tom and Cindy Goodman, In Honor of Whitney Goodman

The Lloyd Gorcey Charitable Foundation, Inc. in memory of Lloyd Gorcey

Bernard and Judith Greenspan

Luke Gulley

Grant Gurtin

Liza Gurtin

Kendall Hall, Fred Jones Family Foundation

Cherie Halladay

Koji and Angela Fukumura

Dr. Carol A. Harter and Mr.

William D. Smith

Thomas Harvey and Bonnie Drolet

Marcia Hazan and Mark Cammell

Jamie Henson and Robert Houskeeper

Dr. Peter and Mrs. Megan Hoagland

Ray and Kate Hong

Robert and Pat Hughes

Aaron and Susan Huniu

Osborn and Dea Hurston

Neil and Vivien Joebchen

Wendy Johnson

Jeanne Jones

Lewis and Patricia Judd

David and Susan Kabakoff

Angela and Matt Kilman

Shirley King and Arthur Olson

Anne M and Richard C Kruse

Gautam and Anjali Lalani

Evelyn and Bill Lamden

Dixon and Pat Lee

Michael Lee and Katharine Cline

Pamela Hamilton Lester

Leilani MacEdo

Sally and Luis Maizel

Edna and Daniel Maneval

David Marchesani, CFA

Jasna Markovac and Gary

Miller

Valorie McClelland

Bill and Mim McKenzie

Rob McManus

Dr. Ken Melville and Dr. Sabina

Wallach

Lisa and Richard Merage

Glenn Miller

Judith B. Morgan

Ann L. Mound

Chandra Mukerji

Stephen Cary Nagler

Margo and James Nederlander

Dr. Walter Olsen and Dr. Zdenka Fronek

F. Richard Pappas

Drs. Kim Kerr and Paul Pearigen

William Pitts and Mary Sophos

Adele Rabin

Vanessa and Gary Ressler

Edward Richard, in memory of Warren P Kendrick-Richard

Bingo and Gino Roncelli

Tammy and Cameron Rooke

Marti and Adam Rosenberg

David A. Roth and Toni D. Wolinsky

Joy Rottenstein

Oliver Ryder

Kristine and Denis Salmon

Beverly Sanborn, in memory of Warren Sanborn

Scarano Family Foundation at The San Diego Foundation

Herb Schnall, In Memory of Ann Schnall

Alex Seaver

Neil R. Senturia and Barbara Bry

Marsha and Mickey Shahon

Richard Shapiro and Marsha Janger

Mitchell and Elizabeth Siegler

Beth Sirull and Jon Shuster, Jewish Community Foundation

Susan and Gerald Slavet

Leslie Branman-Smith

Rod and Dolores Smith

Miriam and David Smotrich

John and Lynn Spafford

Nancy and Alan Spector

Scott M. Stanton

Dale and Mark Steele

George Robert Stewart

Cynthia Stroum, The Stroum Family Foundation

Michael and Pamela Swartout

Al and Stephanie Tarkington

John and Gail Tauscher

Place D. Tegland

Tom Templeton and Mary Ena Erlenborn

Erin Trenda

Dean Ujihara Charitable Fund

Carrie and Victor Vilaplana

Cynthia Walk

Ruth Warburg

Bobbi Warren

Nolan Weinberg

Jo and Howard Weiner

Graydon and Dorothy Wetzler

Wayne Wilson

Philip and Claire Wise

Dr. Joseph Witztum and Ms. Mary Elinger Witztum

Elaine Wolfe

Howard and Christy Zatkin

Barry and Barb Zemel

the Helene and Allan Ziman Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation

CENTER STAGE CLUB$500+

Anonymous

Robin Allgren, MD PhD

Robert Baizer and Diane Jacobs

Baizer

Lisa Celia Balderston

Francis and Diane Bardsley

Nina and Tony Borwick

Jeanne Burton

Anita Busquets and William Ladd

Kyle Chan and Cathy Swindlehurst

Teresa Chartz

June Chocheles

Kristen L. Churchill

Denis M. Crane, in memory of Rilla Crane

Bob Cunningham

Don and Julie DeMent

Susan and John DeNuzzio

Heather Dietsch

Kim and A.T. Ditty

Rosalyn and Tim Dong

Beth and Stephen Doyne

Bob Duffield

Dr. and Mrs. Ronald Edelson

James and Marti Eisenberg

Debroah and J Faulkner

Robert and Mona Freels

Annette and Eddy Friedlein

Shannon-Frink Family Gift Fund

Anne and Mark Smith

Martha and Bill Gilmer

Russell H Ginns

Michael and Brenda Goldbaum

Judi Gottschalk

Stephen and Karen Gray

Pat and Pepper Guevara

Terry Gulden and Renée Comeau

Sheri Hallis

Margo Hebald

Betty Hellstrom

Bryan Hill

Claudia Baranowski and Tom Horvath

Beth Hulsart and Stephen L'Heureux

Mark Jacobs

Nora Jaffe

Mark Johnson

Dario and Dan Jones

Ginger Kantor

Samantha Keil

Rick and Beth Kent

Karen Sage and Charles Laughlin

Mick and Sherrie Laver

Rebecca Le Vasseur

Zita Liebermensch

Susan and Peter Mallory

Scott Markus and Luci Lander

Madonna Maxwell Omens

Carol Mazzetti

Wallace McCloskey and Lynn Dolby

Maggi McKerrow, in memory of Judie McDonald

Christa McReynolds

David and Patricia Meyers

Norma and Scott Miller

Dr. Alison Moore

Dr. and Mrs. Robert B Moore, in honor of Sheri L Jamieson

Story Ann Moreno

Greg and Andrea Moser

Susan Muha

Ann Nathan

Robert C. Nelson and Jean

Fujisaki

Nico and Caroline Nierenberg

Randy and Diane Orley

Beatrice E. Pardo

Pamela Partlow and Bruce

Maigatter

Ms. Virginia S. Patch

John and Paula Peeling

Dr. William and Beth Penny

Sheila and Ken Poggenburg

Sanjiv Nanda and Urmi Ray

Margaret Riel and Hugh Mehan

Patrick Ritto

Dr. Stephen and Cheryl Rockwood

Jodyne Roseman

Bill and Dorian Sailer

Scott Sandel and James

Marich

Christy and Ron Seaver

Barbara and Guy Shaw

Debbie and Dr. Darren Sigal

Beverly and Howard Silldorf

Elizabeth Simmons and Sekhar

Chivukula

Barbara Slater

Annie So

Norman and Judith Solomon

Gary and Susan Spoto

Charles Stephens and Eric Meijer

Dr. Nancy Stewarr, in memory of Dr. Charles Stewart

Lisa Noelle Stone and Matthew A. Lab

Doug and Rachel Timmons

William Tong and Marilyn Newhoff

Twardowski Family

Ted Scott and Joan Weber

Pattie and Jed Weinberg

Jean M Wilkinson

Joyce H. Williams

Curry Wolfe

Susan and Jock Wright

Brendan and Kaye Wynne

Susan Yee

Debra Yellen

OVATION CLUB - $250+

Anonymous

Ladan Daneshmand

Sharon and Terry Allen

Janet Ambrozek and Bruce

Kimmich

Sheila Amend

Gil and Annabelle Balaoing

John Balen

John Baril

Mireille Barnard

The BenMichel Family Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation

Michael Berg

Arnold Berlin

Gerlinde and Greg Beuerlein

Nicholas and Samantha Binkley

Alice Bloom

Joyce and Bob Blumberg

Peter and BJ Boland

Deborah Booth

David and Ginger Boss

Sandra Boyles

Gregg Brandalise

Cherisse Brantz

Mary E. Brewer

Cliff and Lorie Briggs, in honor of Beatrice Briggs

George* and Johanna Brody

Clare Bronowski and Jeff Lee, in memory of Rita Bronowski

Alice W. Brown

Thomas Brown, in memory of my loving wife, Virginia N. Brown

David and Heather Bruner

Ruth Bunn

Dr. and Mrs. Edgar D. Canada

Rachel Caparelli

Tonya Carlos

Lorraine Chuman and Stephen Mikolajczyk

Arthur and Alice Clawson

Bowers Jewelers

Robert A Cooper

Mary Corson

Debra and Kirk Crawford

Annette Cross

Marcus and Ann De Barros

Linda and Richard Dicker

Eric and Kristine Doan

Virginia Dobias

Anne and Chris Duhaime, in honor of Rebecca Duhaime

James and Nancy Eastman

Diane L. Edge DDS

Dr. Thomas Fay and Fabiola

Lopez

Barbara M. Finn

Lynsey Fitzpatrick

Gregory and Monica Foerster

Gregory Foley

Dr. Jim and Mrs. Jenna Foster

Linda and Reginald Frank

Judith and William Friedel

Ellen Fujikawa

Deanne Gage

Aruna and Sabodh Garg

Roberta C Gelardi, William R Long Charitable Fund

Hortense Gerardo

Drs. Charles and Nancy Girvin

Diana and Murphy Glimm

David Glynn and Kevin Ottercrans

Lawrence Goldstone

Lloyd and Dinia Green

Robin and Linda Grensted

Bettina Hahn Osborne

Elsa and Keith Hall

Diana and Dan Halvorson

Prof Marc and Mr James

Harden

Blake Harper and Janice

Deaton

Nancy Hartley

Alan Hay

LA JOLLA PLAYHOUSE: ANNUAL SUPPORT FROM INDIVIDUALS

Sarah Herr

Strait Hicklin

Jerry and Linda Hirshberg

Robert and Carla Hoblit

Doan Hohmeyer

Hughes Family Foundation, in memory of Shannon Lisk

Jenny Price and Tony Hunter

Eric and Gay Hybertsen

Randy and Carrol Jackson

Hamide Kayaci and Oktay

Gumus

Cecil Keener and Cristie

McGuire

Cynthia King and John Graul

Jeff and Joel Harms

Robert and Elena Kucinski

Drs. Janice and Matt Kurth

Graciela Lagumen

Jeff and Judy Lash

Alexis Lasheras

Richard Leib and Sharon Rosen

Leib Family Fund of JCF

Dr. and Mrs. Steven Leshaw

B. Leonard Levy

Lucy and Mitch Levy

John Lomac and Jill Schmidt

Eric and Lori Longstreet

Michelle Longtin

Tom Maddox and Randy Clark, in memory of Joel Holliday

Johnny Mah

Jeanne Maltese

Russell Mangerie

Roger and Kristine McClung

Josh and Leslie Mereminsky

Eric and Laura Michelsen

Pamela Miller

Craig and Betsy Monsell

Elizabeth Morgante

Akiko Charlene Morimoto

Geri Nicolson

Phyllis and Jerrold Olefsky

Max and Fredda Opalsky

Bonnie Packert

Mr. and Mrs. Michael Pallamary

Carol Parker

Drs. Genevieve and Kelly

Parsons

Wendy S. Pincus

Kathleen Rae

Cynthia and Gilbert Raff

Carla and Rudolph Rehm

Richard and Paula Renkin

David and Melissa Rewolinski

Russ and Marty Ries

Joan Rothenberg

Richard Roy and Celsa Spina

George and Karen Sachs

Frankie and Howard Schiffman

Sid and Emy Schneider

Amy Selich

Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Selzer

Dr. Morton and Marjorie Hansen

Shaevitz

Drs. Ron and Marilyn Simon

Clark and Kathryn Smith

Mark and Elaine Smith

Patti and Robb Street

Tom and Patricia Stuart

Robert and Janet Stuelpner

Mark and Christine Stuhmer

Steve and Patty Sullivan

Judy Sweet

Evin Terranova

Alison Thomas

Edward L. Threat, In Memory of Karin U. Threat

Andrea Migdal and Mike Tierney

Delicia Turner Sonnenberg

John Venekamp and Clifford Schireson

Drs. Katharine Sheehan and Frederick Walker

Anne Walter

Audrey and Byron WarfieldGraham

Diane and John Watson

LeAnn and Sam Williams

Sandy Woodhouse

Peter and Donna Worcester

IN LOVING MEMORY Jordan Ressler, 1981-2004

Bennett Wright

Summer Wynn

Larry Zeiger

Steven and Cindy Zisser

Reflects giving to annual fund from 4/1/22 – 1/12/24.

We apologize for any errors or accidental omissions. Please contact the Individual Giving Office at (858) 550-1070 x134 if you would like to change your listing.

A Film and Theatre graduate from Cornell University, Jordan was an adventurer with a passion for the arts. Here at La Jolla Playhouse, he served as an assistant to Des McAnuff on Billy Crystal’s 700 Sundays and was the script supervisor for Jersey Boys

The Jordan Ressler Charitable Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation was established by his parents, Vivien and Jeffrey Ressler, to honor their son and his love of theatre and film.

LA JOLLA PLAYHOUSE FOUNDATION & GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

$100,000 +

$50,000 - $99,999

Mandell Weiss Charitable Trust

$25,000 - $49,999

County of San Diego

Laurents / Hatcher Foundation

National Endowment for the Arts

$10,000 - $24,999

David C. Copley Foundation

Dutch Culture USA

Peggy and Robert Matthews Foundation

Price Philanthropies Foundation

San Diego Scottish Rite Community Foundation

Ellen Browning Scripps Foundation

$5,000 - $9,999

Thomas C. Ackerman Foundation

National Alliance for Musical Theatre

John and Marcia Price Family Foundation

$1,000 - $4,999

City of Carlsbad’s Cultural Arts Office

Samuel I. & John Henry Fox Foundation

Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation

Netherland-America Foundation

Arthur and Jeanette Pratt Memorial Fund

San Diego County Employees’ Charitable Organization

Sutherland Foundation

Western States Arts Federation (WESTAF)

$250 - $999

Actors' Equity Foundation

In-Kind

Gary Sinise Foundation

List as of November 29, 2023

Menzel

G A L A

The Tony Award-winning Broadway powerhouse (Rent, Wicked and the animated hit Frozen) headlines this year’s sensational event.

LA JOLLA PLAYHOUSE'S EXTRAORDINARY PLANNED GIVING DONOR COMMUNITY

Planning to Make a Difference

You can perpetuate your love of theatre through a legacy gift to support the ongoing programs of La Jolla Playhouse. Members of The Revelle Legacy Society believe strongly in La Jolla Playhouse’s mission. Through bequests in wills and trusts, beneficiary designations on retirement accounts and life insurance and other estate-planning vehicles, they have included the Playhouse in their estate planning. Make a legacy gift to La Jolla Playhouse and join a group of philanthropists who are planning for the future of the theatre you love.

For more information about making a legacy gift to La Jolla Playhouse, please contact Julia Foster, Director of Philanthropy, at jfoster@ljp.org or (858) 228-3080.

Anonymous

Paula and Ted Adams

Christopher Ashley

Scott Aylward

Roberta C. Baade and George F. Yee*

Quaintance Bartlett*

Roger S. Benson*

Cynthia Bolker

Ralph° and Gail Bryan

Pamela B. Burkholz

Robert Caplan and Carol Randolph

Leslie J. Cohen*

Ted Cranston°*

Robert William Cunningham

Doug Dawson

Armando de Peralta, Sr.*

Jendy Dennis* Endowment Fund

Grace Marie Duhamel*

Suzanne Figi*

Pauline Foster*

Ewart "Chip" and Sherrilyn Goodwin

David and Claire Guggenheim

Dwight Hare and Stephanie Bergsma

Denise J Harris

Diana Jillie Hill

Joel° and Rosanne Holliday

Bob Jacobs

Joan and Irwin Jacobs

Charmaine°* and Maury* Kaplan

Olga Khitarishvili

Bill and Linda Kolb

Dr. Gloria C.L. Ma*

Mandell Weiss Charitable Trust

Valorie McClelland

Maggi McKerrow

Paul Miller

Stephen Cary Nagler

Teresa Nugent*

John O'Dea

Bernard Paul

Margaret F. Peninger*

Dr. Julie Prazich and Dr. Sara Rosenthal

Jennette Pyne

Karen Quiñones

Jeffrey°* and Vivien Ressler

Ellen* and Roger* Revelle

Michael S. Rosenberg

Warren Sanborn*

Ruth Shepherd*

Dale and Mark Steele

Mickey Stern*

Steven Strauss° and Lise Wilson

Willard°* and Eileen* VanderLaan

Tammy Vaught

Arthur* and Molli Wagner

Peggy Ann Wallace

Geri Ann Warnke° and Joseph F. Kennedy, M.D.*

Mandell Weiss*

Dr. Steve and Lynne Wheeler

Richard Winkler

Gary L. Wollberg° and Dr. Yumi Miyamoto

Liza Zinola

*Deceased Revelle

Legacy Society Members

ºPast Chair of La Jolla Playhouse Board

List as of January 17, 2023

JOIN US JUNE 19-24 FOR THE LA JOLLA PLAYHOUSE TECH THEATRE SUMMER INTENSIVE FOR THEATRE EDUCATORS!

As part of our Professional Training Series for Educators, this summer intensive is targeted towards theatre teachers looking to learn new techniques and ways to safely teach technical theatre; the intensive will also provide a great refresher for those wanting to brush up on their theatre knowledge. These courses will be facilitated by veteran high school theatre teachers and La Jolla Playhouse

Teaching Artists, Julie Benitez and Kirsten Giard – both experienced educators with nearly 60 years of teaching combined!

Workshops will take place on-site at La Jolla Playhouse where you will also get to interact and learn from professionals working on La Jolla Playhouse productions. We have four course options to choose from that cover a wide variety of topics, including: new teacher leadership, Q-lab and lighting techniques, set design/construction, and curating a lesson plan. Check out the various options at lajollaplayhouse.org/techtheatre and reserve your spot today!

LEARNING & ENGAGEMENT PROGRAMS

Lead Supporters: California Arts Council | Qualcomm Foundation | San Diego Foundation

Community Programs The Playhouse partners with members of local affinity groups to create productions for, by, with and in the communities we serve. In addition, we provide creative opportunities for artistic development and growth for various community groups.

In-School Programs The Playhouse partners with school districts across San Diego County to place professional teaching artists in schools for intensive artist residencies aimed at providing young people with meaningful opportunities to learn about theatre. Through the Kennedy Center’s Partner in Education program, the San Diego County Office of Education and LJP team up to provide professional development for educators on how to enhance their existing lessons with theatre strategies.

JumpStart Theatre This three-year program provides curriculum and mentorship for a team of middle school teachers to produce musicals in their schools for the first time. After three years, the school receives continued support to maintain a viable theatre program. Supported by the Peggy and Roberts Matthews Foundation and the Sutherland Foundation.

Performance Outreach Program (POP) Tour

Each year, the Playhouse commissions a new play that addresses real concerns of today’s youth and brings a professional production to schools and community centers across San Diego County. Supported by US Bank.

Residencies and Partnerships

• UCSD MFA Residencies: 3rd-year UCSD MFA students participate in a residency within the Playhouse’s 6-show season.

• Resident Theatre Company: The Playhouse annually provides an artistic home and resources to a local theatre without a permanent space of their own.

• Good Neighbor Partnerships: The Playhouse offers opportunities to artists, theatre companies and collectives to use our spaces and resources for special projects that may not be possible without outside support.

Spotlight On Playhouse teaching artists lead classes for adults on Improv, Musical Theatre, Acting and Technical Theatre.

Student Matinees Special student matinees of selected mainstage productions are offered throughout the school year. An online engagement guide, pre- or post-show workshops, and a post-show talkback provides a deeper understanding on how a new play is uniquely developed with Playhouse staff. Supported by California Arts Council.

Young Performers’ Conservatory (YPC) A 5-week intensive that prepares actors for serious college theatre programs; and Tech Theatre, which introduces young people to the various aspects of technical theatre. Supported by the Jordan Ressler Endowment Fund, and the Roberto Quiñones, Jr. Scholarship Fund.

ACCESSIBILITY

Designated wheelchair-accessible seating is available and accessible parking is provided by UC San Diego in the South Parking Structure (formerly known as Osler). Wheelchair seat locations are available for wheelchair users and a companion. Additionally, a golf cart is available to assist patrons with accessibility needs to and from the drop-off location. You may pull into the Passenger/Ride Share DropOff area and a greeter will assist you. The Playhouse offers assisted listening devices free of charge at the Patron Information Booth for any patron who would like amplified sound (subject to availability). Please provide a credit card or ID for temporary deposit. Listening Devices Provided

CHILDREN under the age of 6 are not permitted in the theatre during performances unless otherwise posted. Unaccompanied minors ages 12 and under are not permitted in the theatre. Out of respect for fellow audience members and the performers, babes in arms are not permitted in the theatre during performances.

CONCESSIONS AND DINING

Start your night off right with bar and concessions service from James' Place: serving beer, wine, sodas and individually-wrapped snacks. Additionally, James’ Place provides dining service starting at 5:00pm before evening performances.

COVID-19 SAFETY

The Playhouse continues to follow guidelines and strategies provided by San Diego County, California Department of Public Health, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for all in-person activities. Please go to lajollaplayhouse.org/ healthandsafety for our latest policy updates.

LATE SEATING

Should you arrive late for any performance or need to leave your seat during the performance, you may be asked to wait in the lobby until an appropriate moment. To minimize any disturbance to actors or other patrons, you may stand or be seated in the first available location by House Management even if not your assigned location. Please be advised that some performances may not allow for late seating or return to your assigned seat.

PARKING AND SHUTTLES

For the latest parking and shuttle information, please go to lajollaplayhouse.org/parking

PATRON SERVICES is located in the lobby or courtyard of each theatre. A volunteer is available to distribute assisted listening devices and answer questions.

PHOTOGRAPHY/RECORDING DEVICES

Photography and video or audio recording of performances is strictly prohibited.

PLEASE SILENCE or turn off all electronic devices, including cell phones and watches, before the performance.

SAFETY IN THE THEATRE DISTRICT

La Jolla Playhouse is constantly working with UC San Diego Police Department and Transportation and Parking Services to maintain a safe and secure environment in the parking lots. Patrons are welcome to use the UC San Diego escort service by contacting UC San Diego Community Service Officers (CSOs) at (858) 534-9255 (WALK). Further questions regarding security, please contact UC San Diego Police at (858) 534-4357 (HELP).

LA JOLLA PLAYHOUSE

Christopher Ashley*

The

Rich Family Artistic Director of La Jolla Playhouse STAFF

ARTISTIC

Executive Producer Eric Keen-Louie

Director of Artistic Development Gabriel Greene*

Director of Experiences and Activations Mia Fiorella*

Associate Producer Amy Ashton

Executive Assistant to Christopher Ashley Rick

VanNoy*

Director Emeritus Des McAnuff

Directing Fellow Kat Yen

Artistic Interns Lauren Dong, Xiaoyu (Mary) Liu

Commissioned Artists Todd Almond, Jeff Augustin, Sam Chanse, Fernanda Coppel, Ava Geyer, Idris Goodwin, Mike Lew, Rehana Lew Mirza, Martyna Majok, Mona Mansour, Jess McLeod, MILCK, Lisa Peterson, Theresa Rebeck, Harrison David Rivers, Claudia Shear, Christopher Shinn, Octavio Solis, Benjamin Velez, Keith Wallace, Cheryl L. West, Kristina Wong, Lauren Yee

Artist-in-Residence Maria Patrice Amon

Theater-in-Residence Common Ground Theatre

LEARNING AND ENGAGEMENT

Director of Learning Bridget Cavaiola Stone

Director of Arts Engagement and In-House Casting

Jacole Kitchen

Learning and Engagement Manager Hannah Reinert

Learning and Engagement Coordinator Danniel

Ureña

Learning and Engagement Intern Elena Sanchez

Teaching Artists Julie Benitez, Lex Bezdeka, Leticia

De Anda, Farah Dinga, Shairi Engle, Kristen Fogle, Shawn Foote, Melissa Glasgow, Kirsten Giard, Abby Huffstetler, Jeffrey Ingman, Erica Kahn, Justin Lang, Grace Lehman, Wilfred Paloma, Vanessa Reibel, Lorena Santana, Gill Sotu, Emily Stamets, Marjorie

Treger

ASL Interpreters Lynn Ann Garrett, Anelia Glebocki, Candace Gordon, Billieanne McLellan, Geovanny

Peña

ASL Volunteer Esther Shen

Audio Describers Mernie Aste, Brian Berlau, Tina Dyer, Shari Lyon, Deborah Sanborn, Sylvia Southerland, Michele Dixon, Lisa Illiana, Laurielynn Barnett

ADMINISTRATION

General Manager Ryan Meisheid

Associate General Manager Erica Martin

General Management Intern Emma Pollet

Corporate/Legal Counsel Robert C. Wright, Wright & L’Estrange

Theatre/Legal Counsel F. Richard Pappas, Esq.

COMPANY MANAGEMENT

Assistant Company Manager Mia Apalategui

Company Management Assistants Grace Lehman, Austin Mahn

Company Management Intern Angelica Garcia

FINANCE

Chief Financial Officer Laura Killmer

Controller Jared Jackson

Accounts Payable Manager Sharon Ratelle*

Human Resources Manager Jennifer Boaz

Payroll Matthew Zapata

COMMUNICATIONS

Director of Public Relations Becky Biegelsen*

Director of Sales & Marketing Stephanie Zappala

Associate Director of Sales & Marketing Sonia Diaz

Interim Associate Director of Sales & Marketing Amanda Cantlin

Communications Manager Grace Madamba*

Senior Multimedia Designer Nancy Showers*

Multimedia Designer Phyllis Sa

Marketing Manager Kevin Taylor

Social Media and Content Manager Samantha Laurent

Marketing Database Analyst Dani Meister

Marketing Assistant Mia Van Deloo

Marketing and Communications Intern Katelin Shum

Patron Services Sales Specialist Paul Preston*

Sales Concierge William Guiney

PATRON SERVICES

Associate Director of Ticketing Services Pearl Hang*

Senior Patron Services Manager Travis Guss*

Patron Services Assistant Manager/Group Sales Specialist Bill Washington

Lead Patron Services Representatives Rachel Lasker, Claire Michael

Patron Services Representatives Kita Barrientos, Devon Gonzales, Atalaya Gonzalez

OPERATIONS

Director of Operations Ned Collins*

Operations Manager John Craft*

Network Systems Specialist Daryl “Scooter” Davis

Office Administrator Amanda Casachahua

FRONT OF HOUSE

House Manager Braulio Fernandez-Flores

Assistant House Managers Simonne Darbonne, Hannah Johnson, Emily Klemmetsen, Amy Marquez, Maria Torpey

Audience Concierges Sara Delgado, Chris Ferreria, Katana Fox, Sashank Kanchustambam, Sam Lebedev, Angela Park, Teya Searles, Avery Simonian, Nare Terzyan

PHILANTHROPY

Director of Philanthropy Julia B. Foster

Associate Director of Philanthropy Keely Daximillion

Assistant Director of Philanthropy, Institutional Giving Rebecca Pierce Goodman

Senior Manager, Philanthropy Operations Tony Dixon

Special Events Manager Nil Noyan

Individual Giving Manager Taylor Lehmkuhl

Corporate Relations Manager Katie Wallace-Coppo

Senior Coordinator, Institutional Giving Lyla Iannaccone

Senior Coordinator, Stewardship Dominique Kaestner

Philanthropy Assistant Sam Dedal

Special Events Assistant Gabriella Johnson

Philanthropy/Special Events Intern Aaronne LouisCharles

Debby Buchholz*

Managing Director of La Jolla Playhouse

PRODUCTION

Senior Production Manager Benjamin Seibert

Production Manager Becca Duhaime

Production Office Manager Caren Heintzelman

Production Office Assistant Matthew Bantock

Production/Stage Management Intern Olivia Huntley

SCENE SHOP

Scenery Supervisor Jonathan Gilmer

Scenery Supervisor Kyle Pollitt

Scenery Specialist David Weiner*

Shop Foreman Christopher Chauvet

Lead Stage Carpenter Molly Whittaker

Carpenters Jacob Becker, Jeffrey Becker, Michael Brodsky, Benjamin Butler, Jason Foster, Keegan Graham, Kevin Hall, Joshua Isaacs-Bennett, Nicholas Jackson, Marcus Laskey, Richard Madrigal, Heather Rawolle, Ava Roethe, Nicholas Savage, James Seiveno, Tanner Sohnleitner, Wally Wallace

Shop Helper Samantha King

Charge Artist Jennifer Imbler

Scenic Artists Caroline Kvaas, Marie Mateo, Melissa Nalbach, Courtney Ware

PROPERTIES SHOP

Prop Supervisor Deb Hatch*

Prop Design Associate Zlatko Mitev

Prop Lead Artisan Rai Feltmann

Prop Artisan McKenzie Kiser, Ryan Lewis

COSTUME SHOP

Costume Supervisor Jennifer Ables

Resident Costume Design Assistant Desiree Hatfield-Buckley*

Costume Office Assistant Rebecca Rankin

Draper Sara Lindsey

First Hand Keira McGee

Lead Crafts Artisan Tess Mattraw

Stitchers Stephanie Gift, Sonya Levin

Wardrobe Supervisor Junior Bergman

Hair/Make Up Supervisor Alberto “Albee” Alvarado

ELECTRICS

Production Electrician Kristyn Kennedy*

Electricians Michelle Aguilar, Hannah Beerfas, Jasmyne Birdsong, Alex Cluff, Xavier Luevano, Amber Montoya, Sandra Navarro, Jenner Price

SOUND/VIDEO

Sound/Video Supervisor Dan Barsky

Head of Sound Department Daniel Silva

Sound/Video Technicians Nestor Huerta, Camille Houze, Mae Le, Alfredo Madrigal, Tom Martinez, Sarah-Marie Rad, David Silva

REDWOOD CREW

Production Carpenter Michael Brodsky

Automation Nicholas Savage

Head Rigger Winter Song Ramos, BANDALOOP

Prop Runner (Lead) Kevyn Fernandez

Wardrobe Supervisor Junior Bergman

Hair & Make-Up Supervisor Kim Parker

Dressers Anna Campbell, Kate Morton

Light Board Operator Jasmyne Birdsong

Lead Followspot Operator Michelle Aguilar

Followspot Operator Alex Cluff

Moving Light Programmer Angus Goodearl

* Ten years or more with La Jolla Playhouse

Sound Engineer Ashton McWhirter

A2 Mae Le

Video Engineer Erin Teachman

Disguise Programmer Cheyenne Doczi

Cookies

SPRING EAT SHEET

Eight New Reasons to Dine Out in S.D. This Season / by

Travel to Italy,s

SARAH DAOUST

/ Amalfi Coast by way of Lucrezia. Westfield UTC’s chic new Italian dining destination beckons for date night or group gatherings—boasting an elegant interior flanked by a gleaming bar and an expansive dining terrace. The menu is an ode to 1980s Italian cuisine with a mod twist, offering antipasti, seafood (ask about the crudo of the day), salads, scratchmade pasta dishes, and entrees

like whole grilled branzino and veal Milanese; plus Italian craft cocktails, wines and traditional tiramisu for dessert. There’s pizza, too. Choose from a handful of artisanal pies, such as the Al Tartufo with ricotta, sauteed mushrooms and shaved Italian truffles; or the signature Lucrezia topped with smoked salmon, capers, dill, lemon and crème fraîche. 4301 La Jolla Village Drive, Suite 1050, UTC, 858.352.6266, lucrezia.us

Known for its superb steaks and extensive seafood selection, swanky chain Steak 48 debuts its first San Diego location at Del Mar Highlands Town Center. Outfitted in glamorous low-lit decor, the 12,500-square-foot, standalone steakhouse (formerly Searsucker) is huge—boasting nine dining rooms, private dining suites and a giant open kitchen. On the menu, prime steaks, A5 Japanese wagyu, dry-aged bone-in ribeye,

DINING

caviar, a full raw bar, seafood entrees and salads; along with an impressive inventory of wine, whiskey, bourbon and scotch; plus fun signature cocktails like the Blackberry Bourbon and St. George Manhattan. On the side, the mac ‘n’ cheese is a must—loaded with rock shrimp, Alaskan king crab, Romano cheese, Parmesan and “a touch of Velveeta.” For a sweet finish, the Lou Lou's Homemade Cookies & Cream Gelato Cake and the peanut butter pie with chocolate ganache and a crushed peanut crust are musts. 12995 El Camino Real, Del Mar Heights, 619.901.0048, steak48.com

The uptown corner of Fourth Avenue and Ivy Street is bustling once again, thanks to Common Stock Hospitality. The outfit has transformed the former Bankers Hill Bar + Restaurant space into Books & Records Offering American fare,

craft cocktails and live jazz, the restaurant and bar features a warm, nostalgic decor—complete with green tufted leather booths and walls limewashed in dark cerulean. On chef Sam Deckman’s locally sourced menu: wagyu tartare, carbonara mac ‘n’ cheese, duckconfit bucatini, whole Ensenada seabass, mussels in green-curry broth, bone-in short ribs, and Coca-Cola-braised duck carnitas. Libations

are arranged musically‚ e.g., "Chart Toppers," "Deep Cuts," "Acoustic Blends" (mocktails), "Vintage Vine-yl," etc. Try the Brass Monkey with Monkey Shoulder scotch and banana liqueur.

2202 Fourth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.795.1000, booksandrecordsbar.com

The owners of the popular ristorante Cesarina bring us a new concept, Elvira—a Roman osteria and pizzeria now open in the former Bo-Beau Kitchen + Bar space. Named after the greatgrandmother of co-owner Niccolò Angius—who operates both establishments along with chef Cesarina Mezzoni and business partner Giuseppe Capasso—the casual cucina offers classic Roman dishes,

Italian cocktails and vino by the carafe, pastas, pizzas, daily specials and house-made desserts. The vibe is quaint and modern with nostalgic touches: yellow-and-white striped banquettes and bar seats, lofty A-frame ceilings, and family photos on the walls. Menu highlights: the rigatoni alla carbonara (already a favorite among regulars); the Boscaiola pizza with pork salsiccia, mozzarella, mushrooms, parsley and basil; the Negroni Alpino cocktail; and tutti-frutti panna cotta with pineapple puree for dessert. 4996 W. Point Loma Blvd., Ocean Beach, 619.224.2884, ciaoelvira.com

Offering fire-singed, California-style pizzas, lagoon views, a full bar and cheery contemporary

Clockwise from left: Lou Lou's Jungle Room; cioppino linguine at Books & Records; veal Milanese at Paradisaea.

decor, Pitfire Pizza has opened in Carlsbad. With locations in Los Angeles and Orange County, the James Beard Awardnominated pizza parlor is known for its artisanal creations with seasonal ingredients and slow-rise, fermented sourdough crust; along with chefdriven salads, pastas and small plates like roasted chicken meatballs and white bean soup. Try the Honey Bear pizza with ricotta, mozzarella, provolone, sausage, honey, Calabrian chile and bee pollen. Must-try pastas include the Linguine Bolognese with spinach pasta and slow-cooked ragu; and the baked mac ‘n’ cheese with a creamy five-cheese sauce. Save room for the homemade chocolate-chunk cookie

SAVE THE DATE

DINING

(and order it smothered in salted caramel). 7720 El Camino Real, Suite A, Carlsbad, 760.203.6642, pitfirepizza.com

at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies

This year’s guest artist will be announced soon. Past events have featured stars such as Jennifer Hudson, Josh Groban, Idina Menzel, and Liza Minnelli.

Hospitality firm Karina’s Group debuts a multifaceted venue downtown: Santa Gula—an art deco-inspired supper club serving inventive cocktails, fine wines and a shareable menu of global bites and dishes. This means Shigoku oysters topped with Kaluga caviar, crispy oxtail dumplings, rock shrimp tempura, dry-aged New York steak and uni spaghetti. Libations range from tropical, such as the Pink Swizzle made with rum, chartreuse, pineapple and passionfruit; to the Latin-inspired Naked & Famous with mezcal, Aperol, Chartreuse Amarillo and fresh lime juice. The intimate-glam, 3,500-square-foot space features luxe lounge seating, vintage lighting, artwork by renowned fashion photographer Greg Lotus dotting the

walls, a performance stage hosting DJs and live jazz, and outdoor dining. 554 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.373.8319, santagulasd.com

The latest venue to open at the renovated Lafayette Hotel, Lou Lou’s Jungle Room is a lavish jazz nightclub channeling 1920s NYC. The space’s historical clamshell stage and hardwood dance floor have been restored to their original 1940s glory; along with plush seating, art-deco light fixtures, a circular bar with red fringe dangling above, animal prints, and a sculptural big

FROM TOP: KIMBERLY MOTOS; COURTESY SANTA GULA

From top: offerings at Pitfire Pizza; the chic interior of Santa Gula.

cat or two. On the menu: supper club fare and classic cocktails. Jazz trumpeter Gilbert Castellanos performs monthly concerts. 2223 El Cajon Blvd., North Park, 619.296.2101, loulousclub.com

Known for its seasonal California fare, Paradisaea—Bird Rock’s high-style, Michelin Guide-recognized restaurant and cocktail bar—has launched a new dinner menu‚ crafted by executive chef Jeff Armstrong in collaboration with owners Eric and Zoe Kleinbub. New offerings include prime bone-in ribeye with marbled potatoes and leek soubise, veal Milanese with chickories, dry-aged amberjack crudo, and lamb-neck tortellini with collard greens and ricotta salata; along with an exclusive chef’s tasting menu ($105 per person).

5680 La Jolla Blvd., Bird Rock, 858.255.8011, paradisaea.com

took my very first dance class at age 16, and also created my first full-length ballet, Cinderella, at 16,” he says. At his Phoenix high school, he was the only boy taking dance, and there was added difficulty because he was starting late compared to fellow students.

“It wasn’t easy at first to feel confident in what I was able to do with my own body movement,” Gonzalez says. “But sitting in rehearsals, I was blown away by the creative aspect of putting a ballet together. It was so interesting that everyone seemed to be using steps that were already created, like picking words from a vocabulary list. I was learning the language of ballet and wanted to create my own.”

City Ballet gave Gonzalez the opportunity to create new works, and he was selected as one of only 10 choreographers to be a part of the prestigious New York Choreographic Institute, supported by the New York City Ballet. His work was shown in NYC in March 2016. In 2018, he choreographed a new Carmina Burana, which received critical acclaim; that year he was named the “Best Contemporary Choreographer” for the

regional Youth America Grand Prix. To date, he has created 14 new works for City Ballet.

Gonzalez says it was when he set Rhapsody in Blue during the 2020–21 season that Jo Anne Emery, City Ballet’s Managing Director, suggested he consider another George Gershwin composition, An American in Paris. Like Boléro, this piece of music, composed by Gershwin in 1928, has name recognition, mainly from the 1951 film of the same name starring Gene Kelly and Leslie Caron. But Gonzalez makes it clear his new ballet is not connected to the film. In fact, the ballet is inspired by the story of American fashion designer Claire McCardell—who traveled to Paris alone as a young woman with a

Book, Lyrics and Music by Dave Malloy

Directed by Sean Murray

Music Direction by Patrick Marion

Choreography by Katie Banville

Adapted from War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy

April 10–May 12

Resident Choreographer Geoffrey Gonzalez in Paris

The

dream to design fashion for American women, influenced by the Chanel luxury fashion house of the mid-1950s.

“It’s a totally new story,” Gonzalez says. “I was researching fashion designers in Paris when I came across Claire McCardell, and her story of going to Paris and being inspired and then coming back and starting a wonderful new type of fashion trend for women in America.” Called “the creator of women’s sportswear,” McCardell is widely recognized as the woman who pioneered casual, comfortable American sportswear for women.

Geoffrey

Geoffrey

Elizabeth

Boléro

Boléro

As a dancer, Gonzalez is used to noticing clothing trends. “Everything we know about American sportswear was inspired by what this woman did with French fashion, making it more accessible and liberating for women. Fashion is always influenced from Paris—even American fashion today.”

Christopher

Christopher

March

March 16 & 17 Balboa Theatre

March 27

March 27

California

for the Arts,

California Center for the Arts,

Researching the era for the ballet, Gonzalez made a trip to Paris to study the fashions of the 1950s and 1960s. It included a visit to the Palais Galliera (the City of Paris’ fashion museum), which preserves a collection of fashion—from historical and vintage haute couture

Photo by Jaroslav Richters

to modern. “This museum holds pieces that are the pinnacle of design from the top French designers,” Gonzalez says. “I was able to take photos, get close and really study some of their designs. Some of my looks in the ballet are inspired by these major fashion designers.”

Like Wistrich, Gonzalez says it’s important for City Ballet to present new works as well as the beloved classics. “Some of the classics will live forever, but you can’t keep pumping out the same thing over and over again,” he says. “The business of ballet requires that we create new things, to make people feel they are seeing something they have never seen before anywhere else. There is a special feeling with audiences for a new work— the hope of witnessing something new for the very first time.”

An American in Paris will be performed March 16 and 17 at the Balboa Theatre; and March 27 at California Center for the Arts, Escondido. In addition to the world premieres of An American in Paris and Boléro The Awakening, the program includes the City Ballet premiere of Christopher Wheeldon’s 2002 work, Morphoses

tickets and more info, visit cityballet.org

Fragment of Claude Monet’s oil painting Luncheon on the Grass, on display at the Musée d’Orsay. A new exhibit devoted to the artist, Beyond Monet: The Immersive Experience, runs at the Del Mar Fairgrounds through April 4.