Phantom Digital Program

season sponsor

HIGH SCHOOL PROJECT

title sponsor

high school project progr a m sponsors

high school project 25th a nniv ersary sponsor

Great theatre lives here.

We are pleased to support Grand Theatre and the performers captivating audiences with exciting, innovative and entertaining productions.

BMO is proud to be the Grand Theatre’s 2023/24 Season Sponsor – investing in a world of pure imagination!

PHOTO BY DAHLIA KATZ

WELCOME 1998 was an historic year for London, Ontario. The city faced a catastrophic ice storm, the Thames Valley District School Board came into being, the Tragically Hip played a surprise performance at Centennial Hall, and the Grand Theatre’s renowned High School Project was born.

We often get asked how this program started.

And the answer is you, London.

25 years ago, a dedicated London school teacher came forward with a simple ask: how can I get my students more engaged with the arts and with the Grand? Busy already working on the 1997/98 Season, Artistic Director Michael Shamata could have easily overlooked the question. But, in this Theatre’s typical style, we went big (GRAND, you might even say) and programmed a fully professional show to wrap up that very season – starring and created by local high school students.

Somehow, over the course of one season, in less than 9 months, the very first High School Project was selected, created, funded, and staged. And, against many odds, on May 7, 1998 West Side Story snapped its way on to the Spriet Stage, dazzling audiences and creating a lasting legacy in this city.

I don’t think anyone could have predicted the success of this program, as well as the wide range of talent that got their start on our stages. Artists, who have quickly made their mark on Canada’s theatre landscape, like: Grand Theatre Head Scenic Carpenter, Craig Pearson; versatile actor, Olivia SinclairBrisbane; and visual artist and performer, Mark Uhre – who will soon to star as Willy Wonka in our 2023 holiday production: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Clearly, there is something special about this program.

On behalf of all of us at the Grand Theatre, thank you for joining us for our 25th Anniversary High School Project: The Phantom of the Opera! But, more than that, thank you for supporting and encouraging these incredible young people. It is only because of your support, and that of our sponsors, that this program remains possible - impacting the lives of countless young people who have all found a place they belong, and a form of creative development and expression that is so needed - right now.

Speaking of which, it appears the chandelier is now lit and the show is to begin. We hope you enjoy the music of the night and that we see you again to enjoy our Season of Pure Imagination! evan klassen executive director

RESTAURANT # BAR / NIGHTCLUB # LOCAL CRAFT/BREWERY # COFFEE SHOP # LOCAL WINERY # CATERING COMPANY # BAKERY # PUB # OUTDOOR PATIO # GOLF COURSE # THEATRE-LIVE ENTERTAINMENT # FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT # CAR DEALERSHIP # AUTO BODY SHOP # AUTO REPAIR SHOP # RUST PROOFING # AUTO PARTS STORE # OIL LUBE SHOP # CAR WASH # CAR RENTAL AGENCY # LIMOUSINE COMPANY # SHOE STORE # JEWELLERY STORE # GIFT SHOP # OPTICAL STORE # FURNITURE STORE # OUTDOOR FURNITURE STORE # APPLIANCE STORE # ELECTRONICS # PRINTING/GRAPHICS/SIGN SHOP # SPORT STORE # CELL PHONE STORE # SPORT STORE # BEER/ WINE MAKING STORE # GROCERY STORE # SPECIALTY FOOD STORE # BUTCHER/MEAT MARKET # ANTIQUE SHOP # FLEA/FARMERS’ MARKET # BUILDING/HARDWARE STORE # EQUIPMENT RENTAL SHOP # FLORIST # POOL/POOL SUPPLY STORE # HOT TUB/HUT TUB SUPPLY STORE # WOODSTOVE/FIREPLACE STORE # FABRIC/SEWING STORE # BRIDAL/FORMAL WEAR STORE # FORMAL WEAR STORE # BOOK STORE # LIGHTING STORE # CARPET/FLOORING STORE GARDEN CENTRE/NURSERY# DEPARTMENT STORE # MEN’S CLOTHING STORE # WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE # CHILDREN’S CLOTHING STORE # THRIFT SHOP # SHOPPING MALL # CAMERA STORE # HOME ACCENT STORE # HOBBY/COLLECTABLES STORE # COUNTERTOP SHOP # MATTRESS STORE # FARM EQUIPMENT/SUPPLY STORE # PET GROOMER # WINDOW & DOOR STORE # OUTLET/DISCOUNT STORE # PHARMACY/DRUG STORE # CHIROPRACTOR # OPTOMETRIST # DENTIST # COSMETIC DENTIST # FOOTCARE SPECIALIST # ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE PRACTITIONER # REGISTERED MASSAGE THERAPIST # LASER VISION CENTRE # LASER HAIR REMOVAL BUSINESS # WEIGHT LOSS CLINIC/SERVICES # FITNESS/HEALTH CLUB # MARTIAL ARTS STUDIO # YOGA STUDIO # CROSSFIT/TRAINING GYM # FITNESS/HEALTH STORE # TANNING SALON # SPA TREATMENT # HAIR SALON # BARBER SHOP # FUNERAL HOME # LAW FIRM # INSURANCE COMPANY # INVESTMENT COMPANY # INCOME TAX SERVICE # ACCOUNTING COMPANY # BANK/CREDIT UNION/TRUST COMPANY # REAL ESTATE OFFICE # REAL ESTATE AGENT # HOME BUILDER # APARTMENT RENTAL COMPANY # HOME INSPECTOR # RETIREMENT LIVING RESIDENCE # SENIOR’S CARE PROVIDER # NURSING HOME # HEATING/AIR CONDITIONING PROVIDER # KITCHEN RENOVATOR # GENERAL RENOVATOR/CONTRACTOR # ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR # PLUMBING CONTRACTOR # INTERIOR DECORATOR # PAINTING CONTRACTOR # LANDSCAPE/LAWNCARE SERVICE # INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDER # VETERINARY CLINIC # CLEANING SERVICE (HOME OR OFFICE) # EMPLOYMENT AGENCY # DAYCARE # DANCE STUDIO # PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO # DRY CLEANER # TRAVEL AGENCY # HOTEL/MOTEL # RESORT/COTTAGE # BED AND BREAKFAST # RESTAURANT # BAR / NIGHTCLUB # LOCAL CRAFT/BREWERY # COFFEE SHOP # LOCAL WINERY # CATERING COMPANY # BAKERY # PUB # OUTDOOR PATIO # GOLF COURSE # THEATRE-LIVE ENTERTAINMENT # FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT # CAR DEALERSHIP # AUTO BODY SHOP # AUTO REPAIR SHOP # RUST PROOFING # AUTO PARTS STORE # OIL LUBE SHOP # CAR WASH # CAR RENTAL AGENCY # LIMOUSINE COMPANY # SHOE STORE # JEWELLERY STORE # GIFT SHOP # OPTICAL STORE # FURNITURE STORE # OUTDOOR FURNITURE STORE # APPLIANCE STORE # ELECTRONICS # PRINTING/GRAPHICS/SIGN SHOP # SPORT STORE # CELL PHONE STORE # SPORT STORE # BEER/WINE MAKING STORE # GROCERY STORE # SPECIALTY FOOD STORE # BUTCHER/MEAT MARKET # ANTIQUE SHOP # FLEA/FARMERS’ MARKET # BUILDING/HARDWARE STORE # EQUIPMENT RENTAL SHOP # FLORIST # POOL/POOL SUPPLY STORE # HOT TUB/HUT TUB SUPPLY STORE # WOODSTOVE/ FIREPLACE STORE # FABRIC/SEWING STORE # BRIDAL/FORMAL WEAR STORE # FORMAL WEAR STORE # BOOK STORE # LIGHTING STORE # CARPET/FLOORING STORE # GARDEN CENTRE/NURSERY# DEPARTMENT STORE # MEN’S CLOTHING STORE # WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE # CHILDREN’S CLOTHING STORE # THRIFT SHOP # SHOPPING MALL # CAMERA STORE # HOME ACCENT STORE # HOBBY/COLLECTABLES STORE # COUNTERTOP SHOP # MATTRESS STORE # FARM EQUIPMENT/SUPPLY STORE # PET GROOMER # WINDOW & DOOR STORE # OUTLET/DISCOUNT STORE # PHARMACY/DRUG STORE # CHIROPRACTOR # OPTOMETRIST # DENTIST # COS-

BEST FLEA/FARMER’S MARKET

VOTED BEST MARKET IN LONDON WESTERN FAIR DISTRICT

FRESH. LOCAL. CRAFTED. MARKET

2023 WINNER

2 FLOORS, 100 SHOPS & FREE PARKING

Food

Year-round fresh, local, organic produce and fruit.

Butchers, bakers, fish, vegan, plant-based, eggs & cheese, soups, sauces, spices and food to eat in or take out.

Amazing Artisans

Fine art, custom jewelry, décor, cards, books, vintage, collectibles, candles, musical instruments, apparel, wellness products & services, and so much more.

East London Link Construction.

View Map For Easy Access. Plenty Of Free Parking.

Queens Park

Dundas

St

Dundas St

P P

The Raceway

St

Top of the Fair Restaurant

ion

Construct

P

Gateway Casinos London Paddock

P

Rectory St

n to

er Eg

P Phase 2

l

Additiona

Florence

St

Sports Centre

P Administration Building

Agriplex

P Main

P P

@TheMarketWFD

T H E M A R K E T W F D. C O M

the installation of feathers in our lobby represents the lives lost in canada’s residential school system. photo by dahlia katz.

LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT Welcome to the Grand Theatre. The Grand Theatre acknowledges that we are located on the traditional lands of the Attawandaron (also known as Neutral) peoples and territories associated with various treaties of the Anishinaabeg, Haudenosaunee, and Lunaapewak. The Attawandaron peoples once settled this region alongside the Algonquin and Haudenosaunee peoples and used this land as their traditional beaver hunting grounds.

In London, our treaties include the 1796 London Township Treaty and the 1822 Longwoods Treaty. The London Township Treaty was a regional treaty signed by diplomats representing all parties living on the land, which today we know as Southwestern Ontario. The Longwoods Treaty was signed by representatives of the Crown and the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation and covers approximately 580,000 acres in the area.

Locally, there are three First Nations Communities. They are the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, the Oneida Nation of the Thames, and the Munsee Delaware Nation. We would also like to recognize the growing Indigenous urban population, comprised of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people.

We value the significant historical and contemporary contributions of local and regional First Nations, and all of the Original Peoples of Turtle Island (also known as North America), and acknowledge the traditional lands upon which we live, work, and tell stories together.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

public funders

season sponsor

title sponsors Kim's Convenience

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

The Invisible

Clue

high school project Title Sponsor

High School Project Program Sponsors

High School Project 25th Anniversary Sponsor

Picture Technicians, Artists, and Allied Crafts of the United States, its Territories and Canada, and the London Musicians’ Association Local 209.

The videotaping or other video or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited.

T H E SPR IET STAGE IS GEN EROUSLY SPONSOR ED BY H ELEN & A N DY SPR IET

jeans 'n classics presenting sponsor

student club

grand gala presenting sponsor

community partners Hotel

Apparel

Vehicles

Framing

Catering

Florist

Printing

Telecommunications

P roud to be part o f this amazing projec t!

ldcsb.ca

DISCOVER Creativity The Thames Valley District School Board wishes to thank The Grand Theatre for contributing to our student's success with the annual High School Project.

Public education is enriched with community participation!

Discover MORE at Thames Valley! www.tvdsb.ca

Spriet Stage, SEPTember 19 TO OCTOBER 7, 2023 Opening Night September 22

The Grand Theatre's HIGH SCHOOL PROJECT production of

phantom opera

the of the

Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber Lyrics by Charles Hart Additional Lyrics by Richard Stilgoe Book by Richard Stilgoe & Andrew Lloyd Webber

Based on the novel “Le Fantôme de I’Opéra” by Gaston Leroux Originally directed by Harold Prince Orchestrations by David Cullen & Andrew Lloyd Webber Original Production by Cameron Mackintosh Ltd. and The Really Useful Group Ltd.

The photographing and video/audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited.

Celebrating diverse communities through the arts

Canada Life is a proud supporter of culturally diverse arts programs that make a strong social impact and foster equity and inclusion. Together, we can do more for Canadians, for each other and for the communities we love.

Canada Life and design are trademarks of The Canada Life Assurance Company.

creative TEAM Director Music Director Associate Music Director Choreographer Set Designer Costume Designer Lighting Designer Sound Designer Assistant Director Fight & Intimacy Director Stage Manager Apprentice Stage Manager Vocal Coach

ANDREW TRIBE FLOYDD RICKETTS MATTHEW ATKINS NICOLA PANTIN* SCOTT PENNER+ LISA WRIGHT KIMBERLY PURTELL+ A ARON OUELETTE HANNAH ELIAS ANITA NITTOLY* ALICE FERREYRA GALLIANI* DEVON VECCHIO ANDREW RETHAZI

orchestra Conductor Reeds Cello Violin Keyboard I Trumpet Keyboards III Bass French Horn

MATTHEW ATKINS TONY DE LUCA MARIANNA GRIGG CÉLINE MURR AY ANDREW PETR ASIUNAS CR AIG ROBERTSON JAKE SCHINDLER FILIP STASIAK K ATE STONE

*The participation of these Artists are arranged by permission of Canadian Actors' Equity Association under the provisions of the Dance • Opera • Theatre Policy The Grand Theatre acknowledges with thanks the co-operation of Locals 105 and 828 of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists, and Allied Crafts of the United States, its Territories and Canada, and The London Musicians’ Association Local 279. +Indicated designers on this production are represented by the Associated Designers of Canada, IATSE Local ADC659.

IA

cast Christine Auctioneer Joseph Buquet Raoul M. Lefevre Mme Giry Phantom Porter Meg M. Reyer Phantom Christine Andre Piangi Raoul Firmin Carlotta

EMMA BISHOP TRISTAN BREW BLAKE CAREY WILL CR AMP EVAN DOERR HOSNA EMAMI SPENCE JACKSON JORDYN GOWLING ISABELLE PARENT ETHAN PICKETT KIER AN PROUTY CAMILA RODRIGUEZ RYAN SHAW* LEO SIGUT OLIVER STANTON ISA AC SZOLDATITS STELLA YANGA

*Vocal captain

members of the opera company LAUREN ATKINSON LUKE BAHULA BROOKE BOURNE LAUREN BROOKS MAGGIE BUSCH THEONE "T" DAMUE ETHAN EYLES JOSEPHINE GAJASAN MANYA HEGDE JOEL HOWARD BRYNNE HOWEY BRONW YN KERR CINDY LI MORGAN MCLENAGHAN OLIVIA PHILLIPS ERIN PROUTY UNA ROULSTON JESSICA ROUTLEDGE ISABELLA SANTARELLA RYDER SCARROW ALYSSA SKIFFINGTON NAV YA VAILLANCOURT DESI VANBEEK-PATERSON

corps de ballet MARISSA BASTIA ANSEN PETR A BILIC MICHAEL DODGE AVA GODDARD ISABELLE HILTZ OLIVIA SCHIEDEL MADELINE ST. ARNAUD* ISABELLA THOMPSON*

*Dance captains

PRODUCTION Automation Props Wardrobe Stage Management Scenic Art Wardrobe Props Props Wardrobe Scenic Art Lighting Wardrobe Props Wardrobe Stage Management Wardrobe Props Photography & Marketing Sound Sound Props Wardrobe Props

AMY BAE NADIA BAR AKZIYE MORRIGAN BEHARRIELL JULES BOUGHNER ALEXSANDR A "ALEX" CAIDO AYLA COATES MARIZA COELHO JESSICA DESCHUTTER MACK DOWNE KYER A HODGINS LEAH JARDINE JAMES LIGHTOWLER RILEY LINDSAY MEYER LISTON ANA MARTINEZ VIRGINA MCCALLUM SARENA "ONYX" NIELSEN RONAN PRIOR FLORIA REICHHARDT RUTHIE RENNIE K ATE TELFER CHANDR A VAILLANCOURT MATHEO VAN DER MARK

STUDENT MUSICIANS Flute, Piccolo Clarinet Keys 2

RILEY HALES ERIC KANG FR ANZ MARSOLAIS HERNANDEZ

Home inspections can be daunting... but with the A Team as your guide, we'll steer you down the right 'canal'.

Photo Credit: Playbill.com CONNECT WITH US AND LET'S GET STARTED!

@ATEAMLONDON519

Brokerage, independently owned and operated.

DIRECTOR'S NOTES In the final moments of the play, an act of compassion frees our characters from utter destruction. This selfless and merciful act reveals the acceptance of letting love go. While the story seems tragic, it works because of its emotional honesty which reminds us that authentic love requires both vulnerability and sacrifice.

How fitting that this High School Project is knitted with a story about the power of empathy—the greatest gift of an arts education. Empathy opens your heart, and it takes heart to create theatre. Empathy is the power to hold space, without judgment, connecting emotionally, and communicating the healing message that you’re not alone.

"We hope that through our many artistic experiences, we can empower each other with the many ways of looking at the world, understand another’s perspectives, and engender empathy, the highest human attribute."

It is satisfying to know our High School Project company and crew, as our community’s next generation of leaders, will go off into the world with a deeper capacity for compassion and kindness as fuller and more informed human beings. The Phantom of the Opera reminds us that in order to love, we must truly see one another. andrew tribe

PHOTO BY MALLORY BROWN

GRAND GALA THANK YOU!

On June 22, 2023, the Grand Gala celebrated 25 years of the High School Project Thanks to the Sponsors, Partners and Donors, the 46th Grand Gala raised $250,000 to support the High School Project.

An extra special thanks to the talented guest artists, special guests, honourees, performers, and presenters who joined us in the celebration: Michael Shamata - former Artistic Director at the Grand Theatre and founder of the High School Project, Lennette Randall, Dennis Garnhum, Breanne Ritchie, Suzanne McArthur, Peter Markvoort, Marcy Gallant, Thomas Alderson, Eric Morin, Sarah Hilton, George Kerhoulas, Evan Klassen, and the many High School Project alumni over the past 25 years, plus company members of the 2023/24 HSP, The Phantom of the Opera.

Gala Committee Chris Costello Peter Markvoort Sandra Panzer Rachel Ross Anita Shah PRESENTING SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSORS

Please join us in thanking our sponsors SILVER SPONSORS

GENERAL SPONSORS

BRONZE SPONSORS

FLORAL SPONSOR

AFTER-PARTY SPONSOR

CATERING SPONSOR

BEER SPONSOR

Event Catering Birthday Gifts Bereavement Staff Appreciation “Insert your next event here”

PROUD to play a role IN EVERY Grand Theatre Production

A Division of The Aylmer Express LTD.

BLanthier@aylmerexpress.ca | 226.980.6390

Behind-the-scenes in the

DEVELOPERS REHEARSAL HALL PHOTOS BY RONAN PRIOR

CAMILA RODRIGUEZ, KIERAN PROUTY

WILL CRAMP

From the cast and crew meet and greet until the team moves to its final rehearsals on the Spriet Stage, the magic of theatre comes alive in the rehearsal hall.

ISAAC SZOLDATITS

STELLA YANGA + COMPANY

We are grateful for the financial support provided by the following companies whose contributions assisted in the refurbishment of our main rehearsal hall – now aptly named: The Developers Rehearsal Hall.

London's Best Sunday Brunch 10:30am - 1:00pm

Reservations: deltaarmouries.com

Fabulous food.

Outstanding service.

Fabulous food.

Outstanding service. info@northmoore.ca | 519.850.5111

Harmen Spoelstra and Jessica Jazey-Spoelstra, Owners

519-640-5030

MAKING YOUR HOME SMILE EXTERIOR HOUSE CLEANING SERVICES

• Window Washing • Gutter Cleaning • Power Washing • House Washing • Roof Cleaning • Christmas Lights

Call us today or visit us online to book a free onsite estimate!

SHACKSHINE.COM | 1-888-808-7751

CAST

Lauren Atkinson (she/her) COMPANY London South C.I.

Luke Bahula (he/him) COMPANY Saunders S.S.

Marissa Bastiaansen (she/her) CORPS DE BALLET Regina Mundi C.C.

Petra Bilic (she/her) CORPS DE BALLET Sir Wilfred Laurier S.S.

Emma Bishop CHRISTINE H.B. Beal S.S.

Brooke Bourne (she/her) COMPANY H.B Beal S.S.

Tristan Brew (he/him) AUCTIONEER Westminster S.S.

Lauren Brooks (she/her) COMPANY H.B Beal S.S.

Maggie Busch (she/her) COMPANY St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S.

Blake Carey (he/him) JOSEPH BUQUET H.B. Beal S.S.

Will Cramp (he/him) RAOUL H.B. Beal S.S.

Theone "T" Damue (she/her) COMPANY St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S.

Michael Dodge (they/them) CORPS DE BALLET H.B. Beal S.S.

Evan Doerr (he/him) M. LEFEVRE H.B. Beal S.S.

Hosna Emami (she/her) MME. GIRY Sir Frederick Banting S.S.

Ethan Eyles (he/him) COMPANY Monseigneur-Bruyère

Josephine Gajasan (she/her) COMPANY H.B. Beal S.S.

Ava Goddard (she/her) CORPS DE BALLET Saunders S.S..

Jordyn Gowling (she/her) PORTER London Central S.S.

Manya Hegde COMPANY Saunders S.S.

Isabelle Hiltz (she/her) CORPS DE BALLET H.B. Beal S.S.

Joel Howard (he/him) COMPANY Medway H.S.

Brynne Howey (she/her) COMPANY Saunders S.S

Spence Jackson (he/him) PHANTOM H.B. Beal S.S.

Bronwyn Kerr (she/her) COMPANY H.B. Beal S.S.

Cindy Li (she/her) COMPANY H.B. Beal S.S.

Morgan McLenaghan (he/him) COMPANY Sir Frederick Banting S.S.

Isabelle Parent (she/her) MEG Sir Frederick Banting S.S

Olivia Phillips (she/her) COMPANY St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S.

Ethan Pickett (he/him) M. REYER St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S.

Kieran Prouty (he/him) PHANTOM H.B Beal S.S.

Erin Prouty (she/her) COMPANY H.B. Beal S.S.

Camila Rodriguez (she/her) CHRISTINE H.B. Beal S.S.

Una Roulston (she/her) COMPANY H.B. Beal S.S.

Jessica Routledge (she/her) COMPANY Medway H.S.

Isabella Santarella (she/her) COMPANY London Central S.S.

Ryder Scarrow (he/him) COMPANY H.B. Beal S.S.

Olivia Schiedel (she/her) CORPS DE BALLET Catholic Central H.S.

Ryan Shaw (he/him) ANDRÉ Lambton C.C.V.I.

Leo Sigut (he/him) PIANGI Saunders S.S.

Alyssa Skiffington (she/her) COMPANY Oakridge S.S.

Madeline St. Arnaud (she/her) CORPS DE BALLET Strathroy D.C.I.

Oliver Stanton (he/him) RAOUL H.B. Beal S.S.

Isaac Szoldatits (he/him) FIRMIN H.B. Beal S.S.

Isabella Thompson (she/her) CORPS DE BALLET Strathroy D.C.I.

Navya Vaillancourt (they/them) COMPANY London Central S.S.

Desi vanBeek-Paterson COMPANY Woodstock C.I.

Stella Yanga (she/her) CARLOTTA H.B. Beal S.S.

Driven by the arts Lexus of London is the proud sponsor of the Grand Theatre Student Club — a special subscription for students to enjoy a full, and deeply-discounted, year of live, professional theatre.

Student Spotlight: Morgan fulmer

Describe a highlight of your time being in the Student Club I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to participate in pre-show talks and question-and-answer periods with the artistic teams and cast members of various shows. This provided valuable insight into character development and production elements that heightened the show experience.

In what ways have you applied your exposure to theatre and love of the arts to other areas of your life?

After graduating from HB Beal, I found many ways to keep the arts in my life through a minor in dance and elective courses in vocal & theatre during my undergraduate studies. I continue to Pictured: Morgan Fulmer (She/Her) apply my love of the arts in my career choices, both as a dance teacher and elementary school educator with LDCSB and TVDSB as I complete my final year of Bachelor of Education studies at Western University.

What would you say to another student who may be considering coming to student club?

Do it! Student Club is a unique theatre opportunity that allows you to experience a wide variety of performances, learn from industry professionals, make new friends and see amazing shows at a reasonable price.

PRODUCTION

Amy Bae (she/her) AUTOMATION Central S.S.

Nadia Barakziye (she/her) PROPS Medway H.S.

Morrigan Beharriell (she/her) WARDROBE Saunders S.S.

Jules Boughner (she/her) STAGE MANAGEMENT Parkside C.I.

Alexsandra "Alex" Caido SCENIC ART Regina Mundi C.C.

Ayla Coates (she/her) WARDROBE Homeschool

Mariza Coelho (she/her) PROPS Monseigneur-Bruyère

Jessica Deschutter PROPS Homeschool/Montcalm S.S.

Mack Downe WARDROBE H.B. Beal S.S.

Kyera Hodgins (she/her) SCENIC ART H.B. Beal S.S.

Leah Jardine (she/they) LIGHTING Sir Frederick Banting S.S.

James Lightowler (he/him) WARDROBE H.B. Beal S.S.

Riley Lindsay (he/him) PROPS Oakridge S.S.

Meyer Liston (she/they) WARDROBE H.B. Beal S.S.

Ana Martinez (she/her) STAGE MANAGEMENT Sir Frederick Banting S.S.

Virginia McCallum (she/her) WARDROBE Sir Frederick Banting S.S.

Sarena "Onyx" Nielsen PROPS H.B. Beal S.S.

Ronan Prior PHOTOGRAPHY & MARKETING Sir Frederick Banting S.S.

Floria Reichhardt SOUND London Central S.S.

Kate Telfer (she/her) PROPS Parkside C.I.

Chandra Vaillancourt (it/she) WARDROBE London Central S.S.

Matheo Van Der Mark (he/him) PROPS Huron Park S.S.

ORCHESTRA

Riley Hales (he/him) FLUTE, PICCOLO Woodstock C.I.

Eric Kang (he/him) CLARINET A.B. Lucas S.S.

Franz Marsolais Hernandez (they/he) KEYBOARD II École Secondaire Gabriel-Dumont

Ruthie Rennie (they/she) SOUND Huron Park S.S.

Jules B. This role would go to my sister, Kennedy. My sister will always be beside me, she is one of the most special people not only to me but to so many others and I feel so incredibly lucky to be able to say that she is my older sister, my built-in best friend, always.

STUDENT PERSPECTIVES

CHRISTINE

CONSIDERS THE “ANGEL OF MUSIC” HER “GUIDE

AND GUARDIAN”.

WHO TAKES THIS ROLE IN YOUR LIFE?

PHOTOS BY RONAN PRIOR

Jess R. Two angels that shine the brightest for me are my grandparents. They have supported me wanting to be in the High School Project since my first mention of it. I would not have been able to join the cast of Phantom without their help and encouragement.

Ethan P. While my parents have been my guardians and are a massive support to me, I consider my angel of music to be my grandfather. He always inspired me to do what I love, and it’s only fitting that opening night lies on his birthday. This is for him.

Isabelle H. My mom is my guide and guardian because she is my biggest and loudest supporter, and always believes in me.

Theone D. I have a theory, that to every negative voice, there is a positive. That positive voice is my sister. She is my favourite person in every way. She’s a light that guides me down a dark tunnel, showing me the path unwavering.

Some people look for that positive voice their whole lives, I’ve known mine since birth.

Isabella S. In my life, my angel of music is my father.

My dad has loved music since he was little, and he passed this passion onto his daughters. He raised me to believe that I can do whatever I set my mind to, and there is no limit as to what career path I choose.

I would not be on this stage without his encouragement and love. Thank you for everything, dad!

Isaac S. My biggest supporters and guides have always been my parents, Debbie and Fred.

They have constantly provided support and encouraged me to do my best, which I am forever grateful for. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without their warm encouragement and endless love.

Hosna E. I would say my Angels of Music are my family. They have been a constant support for me, encouraging me when I don’t get the role I’m looking for and coming to all my performances. When getting cast in the High School Project, they were the first

people I told and they insisted on celebrating. Without my family, I would never have pursued theatre, and would never have gotten the incredible opportunity to be in this show.

Lauren A. The person who takes that role for me is my mom. She is the most selfless person I know and always puts everyone before herself.

She is my number one supporter and my biggest cheerleader and I can't thank her enough for that.

Meyer L My guide and guardian is my dad. He is always there to help me and support me no matter what.

Erin P. My mother is my “guide and guardian”.

She never fails to encourage me to pursue my love of the arts. Endless hours working with me at the piano and giving me motivation when my creative tank runs empty, is all worth it for her, just to see my passion blossom on the stage.

Mariza C. My friend Breeana takes this role, and is one of the most important people in my life even though we’ve only been friends for two years. She helped me through a dark time, is always encouraging me, and motivated me to apply for the HSP! Morrigan B. My guides & guardians are my parents, who have encouraged and supported me in all my endeavors. Ever since I was small, my parents have done all they can to help me achieve my goals!

Alyssa S. I would say my mom is my guide and guardian because she always drives me to be the best version of myself and supports my passions and hobbies to the fullest.

IRED

how

s the

tha

SP t IN

! s e i er

s v t it

h e h t

oct 17 to nov 4

on the spriet stage

OKAY

, SEE

YOU!

Pictured: Ins Choi Photo by: Mai Tilson

tickets available over the counter at the box office 519.672.8800 or online at grandtheatre.com

SEE IT AS PART OF A PACKAGE Our best offer!

SPRIET SERIES SUBSCRIPTION The classic Spriet Series subscription includes all 6 extraordinary productions on the Spriet Stage!

starting at $251.82

OR pick & CHOOSE TO SAVE Design your own Flex Package with 4-show and 6-show options. "Picking and choosing" from the Grand is a treat!

FLEX 4

4 shows from the Spriet Series

FLEX 6

4 shows from the Spriet Series + 2 shows from the Auburn Series

SEASON SPONSOR

title SPONSOR

We make junk disappear.

Proud supporters of The Grand Theatre.

The Phantom of the Opera - High School Project September 19 – October 7, 2023

1-800-468-5865

1800gotjunk.com

Thank you to our floral partner

CREATIVE TEAM

ANDREW TRIBE

Floydd Ricketts

Andrew Tribe Director HE/HIM

For The Grand Theatre: Titanic - The Musical, The Great Grand Road Trip, Comfort and Joy, Chariots of Fire, Elf (2013), The Sound of Music, Oklahoma!.

Theatre Credits (Selected): Directing: Peter & the Starcatcher, Bright Star, Roald Dahl's Matilda: The Musical, A Christmas Story: The Musical, Big Fish, Sunday in the Park with George, Chicago, Seussical, School of Rock, Sweeney Todd, Into The Woods, Spring Awakening (Original Kids Theatre Company); One Song Glory (Musical Stage Co.). other: Artistic Director of Original Kids Theatre Company from 2012 - 2022. Graduate of H.B. Beal Secondary School, University of Toronto, Sheridan College, Western University, University of Northern Colorado. @andrewtribe

Floydd Ricketts Music Director HE/HIM

For the Grand Theatre: Footloose, The Little Prince, My Fair Lady, The Addams Family, Legally Blonde, Hello, Dolly!, Les Misérables OTHER: An Assistant Professor and the Director of Choirs at Skidmore College; and the Artistic Director of Ensemble Noir, a Montreal chamber choir that specializes in the music of underrepresented communities. Floydd is also the chorusmaster for L’orchestre Philarmonique et Choeur des Mélomanes in Montreal, and he recently finished his tenure as Head of Music at the National Theatre School of Canada.

Matthew ATKINS

NICOLA PANTIN

Matthew Atkins Associate Music Director HE/HIM

For the Grand Theatre: Finding Black Joy, The Great Grand Road Trip, Comfort & Joy. Theatre Credits (Selected): The SpongeBob Musical, Snoopy!, Roald Dahl's Matilda: The Musical (Original Kids Theatre Company); Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Musical Theatre Productions). other: B.Mus., B.Ed., M.Mus. from Western University. Matthew is a secondary school teacher with the Thames Valley District School Board. He is also the Artistic Director of the London Gospel Collective. @matkinsmusic

Nicola Pantin Choreographer she/her

For the Grand theatre: Debut.

Theatre Credits (Selected): Twelfth Night, Timon of Athens, The Count of Monte Cristo, Sticks and Stones, Measure for Measure (Stratford Festival); Jacob Two Two, Seussical (Young People's Theatre); R/J Remixed, Awake (Expect/ Spark Theatre); Bittergirl (Charlottetown); The Hogtown Experience, The Riot at Christie Pits (Hogtown Collective); Grand Hotel (Shanghai Theatre). Brantwood, Shrek: The Musical, Parade, Jesus Christ Superstar (Sheridan College). film and tv credits: Blues Brothers 2000, Stuck (Bravo! FACT); Revolver (Big Toad Productions); Various videos/short films (CBC).

On faculty at George Brown Dance, Pegasus Studios and Creative Children’s Dance Centre.

Other: Nicola is co-artistic director with husband Adam Nashman of 3degrees, a dance theatre company.

From Maria to Christine: A Look Back on 25 Years of the High School Project “How do we get more students interested in the arts?”

This was the question posed 25 years ago to the Grand Theatre’s then Artistic Director, Michael Shamata by local educators. Already considering new ways to increase the Grand's involvement within the local community, the Artistic Director felt a spark light within him.

Not long after, during a collaboration session with Westminster Secondary School teacher, John Douglas, a radical idea soon took shape. What if the Grand staged a fully professional production, mentoring local high school students in performance and production skills?

It was at this moment that history was made: the High School Project was born.

Although the 1997/98 season was already planned and budgeted, Shamata was keen to get the first Project on its feet within the year. Everyone agreed that the Project’s mission was to expose as many students as possible to the arts, without any personal cost to the student participants.

With this guiding light in the forefront, work quickly began on the first HSP performance, Broadway hit: West Side Story.

And, with this major title in place, also came the workings of a major production.

Three days in December were spent auditioning a pre-screened group of more than 300 students from 21 London-area secondary schools. Shamata remarked, “The talent and confidence we encountered was remarkable – a tribute to both

the students and their drama, music, and visual arts teachers – and proof of the value of arts education in our schools.”

A selected 36 students on stage and 32 in production roles like props, stage management, scenic art, wardrobe, lighting, and design delivered the very first High School Project - bringing a new, youthful light to the beloved production.

Following the triumph of its first show, the High School Project became an annual Spring tradition for the Theatre, until 2005 when an additional Fall production was programmed – a benefit for students, families, and schools alike. Fall and Spring HSP productions continued all the way to 2017 when September’s Evita began a new tradition of Fall-only musicals.

A box office success, HSP productions have welcomed tens of thousands of new and returning audiences year-after-year since its first show. Yet, it’s the students that are truly the mark of the Project’s success. Since its inception, the Theatre has seen almost 2,000 students graduate from the program, finding a safe and inspiring environment to develop as theatre artists and as global citizens.

Many of these students also went forward to pursue a career in the arts, or applied the skills learned to careers in a variety of different fields.

A quarter of a century later, what started as a way to immerse students in the arts

has turned into one of the country’s top incubators of young talent. And, it’s nowhere near done yet! In September 2023, the Grand celebrates the silver anniversary of the High School Project with one of its biggest companies and productions to date: Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera.

As the program now looks to its next 25 years, there is no saying how it may evolve and what future Canadian stars will have their start on the Spriet Stage. One thing

that is abundantly clear is that thanks to the unwavering support of the London community and generous sponsors, the Project will continue to flourish and be inimitable anywhere else in the country.

And, why?

Because, as Phantom Director, Andrew Tribe, says, “It’s because London kids are special. That’s all there is.”

CREATIVE TEAM

SCOTT PENNER

LISA WRIGHT

Scott Penner Set Designer

For the Grand Theatre: Elf, Great Grand Road Trip, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Hair.

Theatre Credits (Selected): Job (Soho Rep); Merry Wives of Windsor, Loves Labours Lost, Raisin in the Sun (American Player's Theatre); Without You (Off-Broadway); Intimate Apparel, Fireflies (North Light Theatre); Happy Days (Flint Rep); Cymbeline (Stratford Festival); Shakespeare's Will (Indiana Rep); Jacob Two Two, Seussical (YPT); Billy Bishop Goes to War, Romeo & Juliet (Globe Theatre), Small Mouth Sounds (Theatre Works Colorado); Body Politic (Buddies in Bad Times); Therefore Choose Life (HGJT). film and tv credits: Station 11 (HBO MAX); Five Days at Memorial (AppleTV).

UPCOMING: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Grand Theatre); DION (Coalmine Theatre); The Little Prince (Theatre Works Colorado Springs); Shirley Valentine, Extinction Therapist (Theatre Aquarius).

Lisa Wright Costume Designer

For the Grand Theatre: Head of Wardrobe 2008-Present. Homes: A Refugee Story, ART, The Mountaintop, Fly Me To The Moon, Hair, Into the Woods, Titanic, Prom Queen, Evita, Les Misérables, The Addams Family, Legally Blonde, My Fair Lady, Footloose, Anything Goes, Grease, Hello, Dolly!

Theatre Credits (Selected): Livent, The Stratford Festival, Lighthouse Festival Theatre, Baanf Theatre Centre.

Other: Came to the Grand Theatre in 1989 as a tailor. Assistant Head of Wardrobe for seven seasons.

Kimberly PuRTELL

AARON OUELLETTE

Kimberly Purtell Lighting Designer

For The Grand Theatre: Elf, Rubaboo, Home for the Holidays, This London Life, Prom Queen: The Musical.

Theatre Credits (Selected): A Wrinkle In Time, Frankenstein: Revived (Stratford Festival); Treemonisha (Volcano); Maggie (Theatre Aquarius & Charlottetown Festival); Indecent (Mirvish & Studio 180); Uncle Vanya, Fifteen Dogs (Crow's Theatre); Da Kink In My Hair (Soulpepper); On The Razzle (Shaw Festival); Pomegranate (Canadian Opera Company); Newsies (Arena Stage).

AWARDS AND NOMINATIONS: Recipient of three Dora Mavor Moore Awards, the Pauline McGibbon Award, a Montreal English Theatre Award, and an Elizabeth Sterling Award. other: Vice President of the Associated Designers of Canada.

Aaron Ouellette Sound Designer

For The Grand Theatre: Sound Design Debut; Colours in the Storm (Live Sound Mixer); Current Head of Sound at the Grand Theatre. other: IATSE 105 Union Member. Thank you to IATSE 105 and the Grand Theatre for all your support.

CREATIVE TEAM

hannah elias

ANITA NITTOLY

Hannah Elias Assistant Director

SHE/HER For The Grand Theatre: Grand Re: Opening Festival theatre credits (Selected): Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Sweeney Todd, Hello Dolly (Musical Theatre Productions); Pure Imagination, Super School, Wanda's World, Drama 101, Snoopy: The Musical, Curtains (Original Kids Theatre Company); Be Positive: Fino A Qui Tutto Bene (Compagnia Balafori) Other: B.Sc., M.Sc from Western University.

Graduate of the Dance’s StartUp VI contemporary dance program at the Leggere Strutture Art Factory in Bologna, Italy.

Anita Nittoly Fight & Intimacy Director

For the Grand Theatre: Fall On Your Knees.

Theatre Credits (Selected): Fall On Your Knees (Canstage/NAC); Counter Offence (Segal Centre); Fairview (Canstage); Prodigal (Crow's Theatre); Trojan Girls and The Outhouse of Atreus (Outside The March/Factory Theatre); Our Place (Cahoots/TPM); 2019 Season (The Stratford Festival). film and tv credits: SEE, Star Trek: Discovery, Pretty Hard, Cases, Titans, The Boys, Rabbit Hole, What We Do In The Shadows, and Various Ubisoft Motion Capture Productions.

Other: Stage Combat Instructor, Fight Director, and Sexual Choreographer at the National Theatre School.

ALICE FERReYrA galliani

Devon vecchio

Alice Ferreyra Galliani Stage Manager she/her

For the Grand theatre: Maggie & Pierre Theatre Credits (Selected): Death and the King's Horseman, Hamlet, Romeo & Juliet, Henry VIII, Birds of a Kind, Bakkhai (Stratford Festival); The Marriage of Figaro, The Magic Flute (Canadian Opera Company); Maanomaa, My Brother (Blue Bird Theatre Collective); Every Silver Lining (Next Stage Festival); Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls (Roseneath Theatre); The Drowsy Chaperone, Footloose, The Addams Family, Spring Awakening, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Nine (Randolph College); Godspell (Theatre Sheridan); Anne of Green Gables, Evita, Shrek: The Musical (LOT); The Canadian (Thousand Islands Playhouse); Hamlet (Tarragon Theatre); City of Angels (Theatre By The Bay).

Devon Vecchio Apprentice Stage Manager

For The Grand Theatre: Debut.

Theatre Credits (Selected): Gaslight (Vertigo); Dido and Aeneas (Opera Atelier); Me Love BINGO!: Best In Snow (Arts Club); The 39 Steps (The Grove); Bury The Hatchet (Culture Den Society/Belfry); Summer Bucket List (Collectivus); Comic Potential, Dead Man's Cell Phone, The Drowsy Chaperone (Phoenix); Horse Girl, Spin the Bottle, Oink, Oink (SATCo). other: Graduate of the University of Victoria with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Production and Management.

1875

1919

The Palais Garnier opens in France and would become the setting for The Phantom of the Opera

1943 +1962

The owner and manager of the Grand Opera House, Ambrose J. Small disappears

1910

Gaston Leroux writes the novel Le Fantôme de l'Opéra

Two more film versions directed by Arthur Lubin and Terence Fisher premiere

1925

The iconic silent film starring Lon Chaney and Mary Philbin premieres

1977

The Grand Theatre’s first big renovation after Theatre London purchase

ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER'S

VISUAL phantom opera: ATIMELINE of the

The numbers AT A GLANCE BROADWAY GRAND Performances: Performances:

22 shows 3 weeks 74 student

cast, crew, & musicians

1989

Norm Lewis stars opposite Sierra Boggess and is the first Black Phantom on Broadway

1986

2006

The Phantom of the Opera opens at Her Majesty's Theatre starring Michael Crawford

35 years 125 cast, crew, & musicians

2 Phantoms 2 Christines

32 Christines

2 Raouls

44 Raouls

16 Phantoms

2023

2014

Colm Wilkinson stars at the Pantages Theatre in Toronto

13,981 shows

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA opens Sep 19 on the Spriet Stage at the Grand Theatre

2020

The Grand The Phantom of the Opera Theatre’s most becomes the longest recent interior running show on renovations Broadway

MUSICIANS

Tony de luca

Marianna grigg

Tony De Luca Reeds

For the Grand theatre: Elf, Home for the Holidays, Mary Poppins, Joni Mitchell: River. other: A versatile woodwind and keyboard player who holds both a Bachelor of Music Degree with Honors in Music Education and a Bachelor of Education Degree from the University of Western Ontario, with additional studies from Humber College. Recent engagements include Stratford Festival, Golden Buzzer Winner and Finalist on Canada's Got Talent.

Player for The Grand Theatre, The Victoria Petrolia Playhouse, Drayton Entertainment, The Imperial Theatre, Season 10 of America's Got Talent, Musical Theatre Productions London as well as freelance, session, and private work in and around the London area.

Marianna Grigg Cello she/her

For the Grand theatre: Into The Woods, Grow, Home For The Holidays.

Theatre Credits (Selected): Mary Poppins, Pippin (Beal Musical Theatre); The Hunchback of Notre Dame (WDCI); Turn of the Screw (UWOpera). other: Featured Musician at the “Bridgerton Live Experience” (Netflix/Fever Productions), Graduate of the MMus Program at McGill University and the BMus Program at Western University, National Youth Orchestra 2017-2018, International Symphony Orchestra, Windsor Symphony Orchestra, London Symphonia.

Céline MURRAY

Andrew Petrasiunas

Céline Murray Violin

For the Grand Theatre: Into The Woods, Grow, The Addams Family, Legally Blonde, My Fair Lady.

Theatre Credits (Selected): The Magic Flute (Opera McGill); West Side Story (BMT); Hairspray (JPII); Seussical: The Musical (CCH). film and tv credits: A Celtic Family Christmas - Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy (VisionTV). other: Honors Bachelor of Music Degree specialized in Violin Performance at McGill University, Canadian Open Old Time Fiddle Champion, Stratford Summer Music Festival, Home County Music & Arts Festival, Ontario Youth Symphony, London Youth Symphony.

Andrew Petrasiunas Keyboard I

he/hIM For the Grand theatre: Home for the Holidays, Mamma Mia!, Room, Anne of Green Gables, The Spitfire Grill, Annie, It's A Wonderful Life, Schippel: The Plumber, The Wizard of Oz, The Grand Theatre 100th Anniversary, Miracle on 34th Street.

HIGH SCHOOL PROJECTS: Titanic, Prom Queen, Evita, Les Misérables, West Side Story, The Sound of Music, Oklahoma!, Fiddler on the Roof, The Music Man, Oliver, Guys and Dolls, Hello, Dolly!

Theatre Credits (Selected): Fun Home (Original Kids Theatre Company); Alberta Fusion (Charlottetown); Alice Through the Looking Glass (Theatre Aquarius).

OTHER: Andrew is excited to be playing for Floydd on this project, who was the anchor in the barbershop quartet in The Music Man an HSP production he directed.

MUSICIANS

Craig robertson

JAKE SCHINDLER

Craig Robertson Trumpet

For The Grand Theatre: Les Misérables, Legally Blonde, Hair, Addams Family, Mary Poppins, Hello, Dolly!

Theatre Credits (Selected): Cabaret, Legally Blonde (Theatre Aquarius); Damn Yankees, Pirates of Penzance, Suessical: The Musical (Mirvish). film and tv credits: Can be heard on several video game soudtracks including the Battlefield series and has appeared in nearly a dozen music videos. Most recently, toured with Canada's The Tea Party. other: Graduate of Western University with a Bachelors degree in Trumpet Performance.

Jake Schindler Keyboard III

HE/HIM For The Grand Theatre: Legally Blonde, My Fair Lady, The Importance of Being Ernest Theatre Credits: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Joni Mitchell: Both Sides Now (Tweed & Co.); Boy Falls From The Sky (Mirvish); Killing Time, Guildwood, CHOIR! (Independant - Toronto Fringe); Ursa: A Folk Musical (The Uncommon Folk Collective); Red Letter Day (St. Lawrence College). other: HSP Alumni, Bachelor of Music (Music Education), Associate Keyboard Programmer at Stratford and Shaw Festivals (2023), Music Director at The Second City, Toronto. jakeschindler.com

Filip stasiak

KATE STONE

Filip Stasiak Bass

For the Grand theatre: The Addams Family, Hello, Dolly!

Theatre Credits (Selected): Dracula (Shaw Festival); Songs of Sinatra (Drayton); Urinetown, Pippin (Theatre Woodstock); Beauty & The Beast, Oliver! (Theatre Norfolk); The Producers (Theatre Ancaster); Chicago, RENT, A Christmas Story: The Musical (Original Kids Theatre Company); The Who's TOMMY, Let The Music Come Alive (Palace Theatre); Annie, Fiddler on the Roof, West Side Story, The Sound of Music (Windsor). other: Bassist for the Niagara Symphony, Peterborough Symphony, London Symphonia.

Graduate of Wayne State University, Western University, and Wilfrid Laurier University.

Kate Stone French Horn

For The Grand Theatre: Les Misérables, Jeans n' Classics.

Theatre Credits (Selected): Played musicals at The Stratford Festival since 1992.

Currently playing Spamalot and fanfares (Stratford Festival). other: Played with many orchestras across Canada including Victoria Symphony, Thunder Bay Symphony, KWSO, Hamilton Philharmonic, Windsor Symphony, NAC Orchestra, Tafelmusik, Orchestra London. Current member of London Symphonia.

The Auburn Series Returns!

Add these 3 auburn stage shows to your Spriet Series Subscription for only $99 and become a

golden ticket holder! ronnie burkett

In this raucous, adultsonly holiday treat, internationally acclaimed and multi-award-winning puppeteer Ronnie Burkett reimagines the timeless classic A Christmas Carol for a madly-merry, marionette mash-up. Have yourself a naughty little Christmas at the Grand!

16+ Ronnie Burkett Theatre of Marionettes

november 27 to december 9 auburn stage | opens november 28

subscribe for early access to these shows! single tickets on sale october 7, 2023

From Cliff Cardinal, multi-award-winning Cree writer, poet and actor, comes a darkly comedic solo production that tells the tale of Wind and his two brothers, who are caught in a torrent of solvent abuse and struggling to cope with the sudden death of their mother.

WRITTEN & PERFORMED BY

cliff cardinal

Directed by Karin Randoja

16+

february 6 to february 17 auburn stage | opens february 7

Dire Music Directcted by Scott Hurst Written, Con ed by Jeannie Wyse ce Performed bived, Composed, and y Andrew Pr ashad

april 9 to april 20 auburn stage | opens april 10

After enthralling audiences in Grand Ghosts, renowned Canadian tap dancer, Andrew Prashad returns to the Grand Theatre with his intimate, solo show. Using monologues, original songs, improvisational tap dance, and multimedia video, Andrew shares his journey of caring for a son with spina bifida and hydrocephalus, while raising two daughters.

ways to get

are you a student who craves more theatre in your life?

involved grandtheatre.com/youth-education grandtheatre.com/ways-to-save

volunteer

DYK? Volunteering at the Grand counts towards your 40 hours of community service!

join the student club Become an important part of our Grand community with other like-minded students from across the city, and enjoy six plays on the Spriet Stage for only $99! Join us for a Thursday preview performance which includes a post-show event with pizza, guest artists, creative team members, and Grand staff members.

Participate in the

high school project

An awesome opportunity for hands-on training and mentorship by professional artists and coaches in all departments of the Theatre.

This program is open to any high school student from the London area and no costs are associated!

You Are Welcome.

We are building a community that future generations can be proud of. A community where everyone is welcome. A community where you can be yourself.

Framing is an Art. Our years of design experience equip us to create beautiful results for our clients.

CUSTOM FRAMING UNIQUE GIFTS

371 Horton Street (West of Colborne) 519-438-2534 sarah@framingandart.ca

STAFF & BOARD EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Evan Klassen

ARTISTIC ADMINISTRATION PRODUCER

Lyndee Hansen COMPANY MANAGER

Christine Gruenbauer EDUCATION MANAGER

MARKETING PROJECT MANAGER

Allison Birs Preston Free Cooper COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

Caitlin Core

ASSISTANT TECHNICAL DIRECTOR

Sonja Niedermaier

PRODUCTION DRIVER

Jim Doucette PROPERTIES

HEAD OF PROPS

Breanne Ritchie

fund DEVELOPMENT

Natalie Kearns

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & EDUCATION INTERN

Heather Siskind-Levite

DIRECTOR

Natalie Tsang

ADMINISTRATION

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS RELATIONSHIPS AND EVENTS

Danielle Dixon IT DIRECTOR

Barb Whang

TESSITURA ADMINISTRATOR

Britt Duncan

operations BUILDING MANAGER

PROPS BUILDER/BUYER

WARDROBE HEAD OF WARDROBE

Scenic carpentry

Christopher Alleyne Nicole Blanchette Jamie Campbell Blair Fantillo Alexis Gordon Jennifer Ho Ron Koudys Amira Moussa Jane Scholes Jennifer Slay Dr. Robert Sokol

Celia Silverson

WARDROBE APPRENTICE

HoUSEKEEPing

ASSISTANT FRONT OF HOUSE MANAGER

FINANCE CONSULTANT

Ansel Tempral PAYROLL

Judy Risser

marketing & digital strategy DIRECTOR

FIRST CARPENTER

SECOND CARPENTER

John-Michael Plester SCENIC ART

BAR & BEVERAGE

Richard Lawler

TREASURER

Bill Assini

SECRETARY

HEAD SCENIC ARTIST SENIOR SCENIC ARTIST

Craig Guthrie SPRIET STAGE

HEAD STAGE CARPENTER

Steve West

THE GRAND THEATRE FOUNDATION BOARD PRESIDENT

HEAD OF AUDIO

Ron Koudys

box office

HEAD OF LIGHTING

Jamie Crich

Denise Hay

Jared Whitty

REPRESENTATIVES

Sarah Tracy

George Kerhoulas

STAGEHANDS

Tom Burnett Dianne Cunningham Elizabeth Drewlo Peter Markvoort Bob Schram Tom Tillmann

AUDIENCE SERVICES SUPERVISOR

Caitlin Cahill Trinity Harrison Brittney-Lee Lowey Karen McDonald Cheryl Willison

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Lia Karidas

Paul Fujimoto-Pihl

DIGITAL MARKETING STRATEGIST

Brayden Crawford

Rana Bajandooh

HEAD SCENIC CARPENTER

Haley Helm

Mackenzie Bishop Amelia Hilton Ben Kennes Sabrina Sa Sabrina Stewart Hannah VanAlphen-Fyfe Landon Wright

Anita Shah

DIRECTORS

Rory Leydier

Ali Samuel

Kelly Fraleigh

PAST PRESIDENT

Anne Toal

Aaron Simmons

ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT

VICE-PRESIDENT

Matt Parr

Morgan Cameron

FRONT OF HOUSE MANAGER

DIRECTOR

PRESIDENT

George Kerhoulas

DEVELOPMENT VOLUNTEER

Jacob Wiley

WARDROBE CUTTER

ASSISTANT BUILDING MANAGER

Magdi Osman

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Elisabeth Mastrandrea

Craig Pearson

FINANCE

HEAD TECHNICIAN

Steve Allen

DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

FRONT OF HOUSE

Shannon Goneau Marty Peterson Luke Morrison John Whitty

AUBURN STAGE

Lisa Wright

AUDIENCE SERVICES

SECURITY

Heather Sinclair

Sarah Hilton

Mike MacDonald

Luke Morrison Patricia Sexsmith Ben Storie

WARDROBE MAINTENANCE

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR

Aaron Ouellette Liam Arbogast HEAD OF FLYS HEAD STAGE WARDROBE

Chris Barker Ken Scott DECK LX

Bonnie Szeto A2 Jeff Bialkowski DRESSERS

Jolan Farren Tasse Koumoutsidis Mary West

VICE-PRESIDENT TREASURER

Bill Assini

SECRETARY

make a grand gift Did you know: creating live theatre is not possible on ticket sales alone? A sold-out house only covers a fraction of the costs that produce a season. The Grand proudly employs hundreds, attracts world-renowned talent, boosts the local economy, and creates transformative experiences that inspire. All of this wouldn't be possible without you, our donors and supporters. curated events with the executive & artistic directors free access to reception space once per season meet & greet with cast & creative members luncheon with new artistic director early access to upcoming season's secrets 2 complimentary drink tickets per show opening night preshow wine & cheese opening night subscription for 2 invite to early rehearsal invite to sneak peek event exclusive grand theatre swag invite to "how the magic happens" event 2 complimentary drink tickets single tickets at 15% discount invitiation to season launch party recognition in house programs recognition in annual report voting rights at agm unlimited ticket exchanges tax receipt Donor levels entitled to receive all benefits applicable from lower levels.

$20,000+

$10,00019,999 grand visionaries

$50009999

$250 grand

So, how does your gift make a difference, in the GRAND scheme of things?

Your donation, at any level, not only supports putting productions on our stages, it also helps provide subsidies for Student Club, Student Matinees, Relaxed Performances, High School Project and funds tickets for children who may not otherwise have the opportunity to attend a Grand show.

As a registered charity, Grand donors are not only eligible for tax receipts, but also receive valuable perks through our Donor Benefits Program.

Ready to have your gift take centre stage?

Contact Jacob Wiley, Development Coordinator at jwiley@grandtheatre.com or 519-672-9030 x 245

Ready to learn more about corporate sponsorships?

Contact Sarah Hilton, Director of Business Relationships and Events at shilton@grandtheatre.com or 519-672-9030 x 260

00-4999 champions

$1000-2499

$500-999

$100-499

grand supporters

$10-99

STYLE FOR ALL SEASONS 1152 Fanshawe Park Road East 519 451-9066 tynershortenclothiers.com

THANK YOU TO OUR DONORS This listing recognizes the much-appreciated gifts we have received within the last twelve months. The cut-off date to be recognized in this program was August 21st, 2023. If you have any questions regarding these listings, or are looking for details on how to become a donor for the Grand Theatre, please contact Jacob Wiley, Development Coordinator at 519.672.9030 x245 or by email at jwiley@grandtheatre.com.

GRAND VISIONARIES DIRECTORS’ CIRCLE $20,000+

Auburn Developments Inc . • Karen & Eric Auzins • Caroline & Rodney Hancock • Dr. Nicole Le Riche & Dr. John Howard • Ron & Deb Koudys • Debbie & Bob Schram • Helen & Andy Spriet • Roberta & Dr. Robert Sokol

patron's CIRCLE $10,000 –19,999 Robert & Donna Bourne • Lynne Cram • Lynn Davis • Susan & Ron Holliday • Shelly & Bob Siskind • Diane & Michael Smith

AMBASSDOR'S CIRCLE $5,000–9,999 Sumit Agrawal & Zahra Kassam • Burnett Okanski Dale Financial Group • The Jack & Barbara Hay Foundation • Harry Joosten & Kathleen Murphy • George Kerhoulas & Jacqueline Crosby • Peter Markvoort • Cecil & Linda Rorabeck • Eleanor Schnall • Susan Smith-Goddard • Susan Carlyle & David Southen • Richard & Marianne Zelinka

GRAND CHAMPIONS LONDON PROUD CLUB $2,500–4,999 Ahria Consulting Inc. Ruthe Anne Conyngham Crawford Macleod Foundation Chris Alleyne & Chris Costello Jim Cressman Barbara & John Cronyn Fund Allan & Susan Edwards

Blair Fantillo & Alison WebbFantillo Bill & Ann Fleming Lily & Grant Hopcroft Alison & Michael Hannay Deb Harvey Chris Jackman & Lesley MacAskill

Evan R. Klassen Suzanne Lanthier William & Lynda McCauley Amira Moussa & Mike Meddaoui Larry Myny Sandra & Derek Panzer Franco & Dawn Paron

GRAND SUPPORTERS ASSOCIATES $1,000–2,499 Stephen Adams QC & Linda Adams Jill and Brian Allen Jane and Justin Amann Brent and Sheila Barr Rachael Berta Sharon Bryan Doug and Dawn Bryce Diana and Charles Coates Joanne and Thomas Cowan Dianne Cunningham Peter & Jennifer Day Noreen De Shane Jennifer Duncan Rhonda Hallberg Michael Johnson William and Katharine Kostuk Family Fund Alex Lau Brian & Sharon Lessard

Sandra and Don Letton The Verna D. Davis Endowment for the Arts Jason Mandlowitz & Daryl Fridenberg Rick Mann Jennifer Matthews Kerry McKee Teresa and Ron McRae Michael and Valerie Milde Jean Monteith Vandana Nagpal-Shah & Piyush Shah Ina Pakkert Migneron Larry Panych & Chandlee Dickey Jennifer and Matt Parr Robert and Sandra Pearson Andrew Petrasiunas & Kate Milner

Colleen Quigley Bill & Linda Ross Mina Samuels Peter and Heather Scott Ian and Elaine Simpson Sarah Tattersall & Kevin Endo Rick Verrette & George Jolink Margo Visser-DeVuono Mary Warner

John & Jackie Porter Anita & Amit Shah Jennifer Slay Peter & Beth Whatmore Ian Wallace Judith White

GRAND SUPPORTERS FRIENDS

$500–999 Larry & Susan Agranove Family Fund Harold and Sharon Arbuckle Dr Ross & Yvonne Archibald Architects Tillmann Ruth Robinson William & Joanne Assini Mike and Doreen Bartlett Allen and Judith Best Nicole Blanchette Maureen Boland James & Janet Caskey Phil and Midge Dean Mr. & Mrs. W M Dobell Marilyn & Art Fidler Joan Finegan & Mel Goodale Joseph and Gloria Gilbert Mary Gillett & Thomas Burnett Kathryn Glasgow & Dave Aziz Gavin and Bea Hamilton Patricia Hoffer Peter and Leslie Johnson Kirsten Knight & Craig Emptage Marty Kolls Schram & Mark Schram Steve Kopp Gary and Mary Margaret Koreen David and Antje Laidler Spencer Lanthier Bill and Ruta Lawrence Mike and Lisa Leopold Deb Livingstone & Bob Ripley David and Elizabeth Macdonald Darlene and Larry Marshall Ian and Nancy McDowell Libby and Earl McMillan Deborah and Joe Owens Wendy Petersen Norma and Jim Poel Jerry Pribil Maxine Pulbrook-Chiu Deborah and Ronald Purdy Lili Rechnitzer Judith and Wilson Rodger Tim Ruffilli Jack and Carolyn Scott Sandra Shaw Kim Shuit Celia and Rod Silverson Jack and Joanne Smit Helena Steinmetz & Bruce Hewitt Erin and Dave Stimac

Norma Stokes Jurgen Tietz & Dianne Baird Mike Tilson Dr. Malcolm Wood & Mrs. Monique Wood

supporters $100–499

Jack and Judy Abell Shannon Ablitt Jean Adams Elena and John Aggelopoulos Josanne Atley Karen Bailey & Lynn Heinitz Rob Bain Caroline Barandowski Beverly and David Bell Pat and Rodney Bell Shelley Bellyou Ingrid Betz Julie Bevan Joan and Robert Boyce Teresa Brennan Jack and Lorena Brown Mitchell Brown Sean Brown Alice & Phillip Bruce Susan Bryant & Michael MacDonald Moira Burke Sharon and Bill Burns Linda and Larry Burt Chris and Lori Cahill M. F. Caldwell Madeline Campbell Mary and James Campbell Adam Caplan Jesse Carlton Ryan Carter James Cassidy Jacklyn Chang-Cardoso Alex and Margo Christodoulou Myra and Gary Collins Hugh John Cook Henry and Ada Cornelissen Larry Cornies Kenneth Cossoy Grace Coutinho Matthew Creighton Lloyd Davenport Emma Donoghue & Chris Roulston Joanne Dow Dorothy Downs & Thomas Sobut Vicki and Gord Drimmie Mary Dryden Adam D'Silva Frances Dyson Penny Eizenga Marilyn Elgie Bruce and Joan Estabrooks Liz & Jim Etherington

Kim Eyre Doug and Laura Fairbairn Laurie Farquharson Barb and Bruce Fearnall Linda and Louis Ferraro Lynne and James Finn Elizabeth Fowler Suzanne Fratschko Elliott Paul Fujimoto-Pihl Pamela Gallagher George Georgopoulos Wendy Gilmour Hillary Glass Rigmor and Gary Glen David Gliddon Deb Greenfield Pauline and Peter Hart Najet and Hanny Hassan Denise Hay Glenn and Lois Hayter Jesse Helmer Jayna Hendren Jennifer Ho Gail & Rick Hoevenaars David Hoff Cheryl Hooper Louisa Howerow Brenda and Morrison Hurley Paul and Heather Huston Jenna Hutchison Susan Isaacs Kent James Wayne Jamieson Dennis Johns and Joanne Lubansky Johns Allan Johnson Ann Judson Heather and David Keast Jordan Kilfoy Mary Ellen Kirk Rob and Lorraine Klassen Stan and Sheila Kogon John and Susan Koval Claire A. Lane Jennifer and Wayne Lawrence Mr. R Lawton & Mr. S Chitovas Michael Leopold Karen Lilley Bernadette Lockhart Murray MacKenzie Suzanne Majhanovich Patrick Malloy and Gayle White-Malloy Melissa Maloney Stephanie Marentette Jamie and Cheryl McCallum Karen McDonald Ann McEwan-Castellan Ken McGuffin Ian McIlraith & Sheilanne Lindsay

Jason McIntyre Nan McIntyre Kandice McKee & Desi Brownstone Bill and Nancy McKeough Paul and Luella McKnight Heather McLean Mark McLean & Lara Yovetich Brian McMillan Marilynne McNeil William and Katherine Meath Robert Mepham Janet Millar Sharon Miller John Mitchell & Debra Jared Iain Moggach Brett Morritt Eva Munoz Museum London New Era Grafix Celia Nichols and Cam Johnston Colleen O'Brien David O'Gorman John and Norine Opper Maura Pare Catherine Patterson & James Ferguson Melissa Pickering Ann Pinchin Mary Possmayer Gary and Diane Price Rick and Karen Pritchett Jason and Tanya Prouty Lisa Putman & Bruce Reed Nancy Quinn & JD DeLuzio Gary and Gail Rains Hugh Rawling & Dorli Herman Peter and Bonnie Regier Matthew Reid Linda Rempel Anne Reuber Eleanore Reynolds Douglas and Kathleen Richards Doris Robak William and Barbara Robins Garrett Rodman Paul and Karen Romanson Ron Koudys Landscape Architect Inc. Rick and Dianne Rumney Howard and Lynda Rundle Alan G. Sellery Gordon and Catherine Sellery Julia Sert Todd and Elisabeth Shaddick Douglas and Pirkko Sheldrick

Liisa Sheldrick Kathryn Ann Sherwin Robert and Margaret Shirley Joe Silva Randy & Mariann Southen Jacqueline and Erich Specht Jack & Elaine Norman Michelle Stanton Susan Steven Ian Stone Ken and Joan Sumnall Anne Thede Tom and Jane Tillmann Joanne and Brian Timney Anne Toal & Paul Brisson Susan Toth Ross and Joan Totten Andrew Tribe

Shannon Twynstra Lisa Uptigrove Kathryn Varey Catherine Vermue Janis Wallace Kirk Wallis Alex and Beth-Anne Wasko Ronald & Denise Wexler Judy and Gerry Wheaton Lynn Williams Rod and Faye Willis Sandra-Pat Willis Ian & Mary Wilton Christine Wood Doug W. Woods Andrew Wright Richard Allan Yake

ENDOWMENTS & GIFTS THROUGH the LONDON COMMUNITY Foundation The Barbara & John Cronyn Fund • The Grant & Lily Hopcroft Fund • The Larry & Susan Agranove Family Fund • The Megan Holliday Memorial Fund • The Verna D. Davis Endowment for the Arts • The William and Katharine Kostuk Family Fund • Crawford MacLeod Foundation • Judith and Wilson Rodger • The McNee Family Fund

In Memoriam Thank you to those who gave in memory of Shirley Brown, Vivian Deleary, Mary Loncke, Eleanore Reynolds, Pam Samuels, Robert Swartman, and Lister Waugh cherished friends of the Grand who are dearly missed.

PROSCENIUM SOCIETY Planned giving We are deeply grateful to the compassionate individuals who have made the important and thoughtful decision to make a planned gift to the Grand Theatre. We honour them through their membership in the Proscenium Society.

Their legacy will help ensure that the Grand continues to flourish.

Membership to the Proscenium Society is available to those who have chosen to make a planned gift in one or more of the following ways: • Bequests (donations through your will) • Listed Securities • Life Insurance Beneficiary Designation • Charitable Gift Annuities • Life Insurance Policies, RRSP, RRIF Barbara Belbeck • Hazel E. Bell • Marista Ateena Brooks (Mikolaski) • Robert Crawford • Buck A. M. Cuddy • Theresa Cutler • Lynn Davis • Helen Ann Day • Walter R. (Wally) Duffield • Cathy & James Dunlop • Innis Hammond • Barbara Horne • Dr. Nicole le Riche & Dr. John Howard • Beryl Ivey • Elizabeth Ann Jones • Karen Kileen • EJ Lamb • Mary & Roger Lilliman • Myrtle McCallum • Douglas McCullough • Mary Eleanor Miller • Susan Nickle • Diane & Gary Alan Price • Glenda Robinson • Maureen Elizabeth Ryan • Joseph Samuels • Pam Samuels • Donald Smith • Doris Spence • Elizabeth Stratton Judy White • Michael Wojtak

We would also like to thank the members of our community who have welcomed visiting artists into their homes as Artist Housing Partners for this season: Lesley Beagley • Ross & Cathy Burgar • Jill Ellis-Worthington • Anna Grigg • Christine Hoover • Denise Jung • Beth Leibovitz • Pam Mandich • Cam Quinn • Patricia Reilly • Wendy Sanderson-Culley • Anita & Amit Shah • Lene Stentoft • Allan Stichbury • Mark Uhre • Peter & Jan Vogel • Bob Ward & Susan Yerema • Megan Watson • Doug & Connie Weir

NEW ARRIVALS!

FALL WINTER

2023

Stop by Channer’s for the latest styles and ideas for your Fall & Winter wardrobe.

581 Wonderland Rd. S (519) 472.3470 channers.com Monday – Friday: 9am – 6pm Saturday: 9am – 5:30pm Sunday: 12pm - 5pm