Experiments in Comedy & Tragedy

DIRECTOR’S

Welcome to our production of This Murder Was Staged !

In this twisted tale of comedy, deception, and murder, nothing is as it seems, and everyone is a suspect – including you! As our story unfolds, we dance the line between fiction and reality, revealing the motives and secrets of not only our actors, but technicians, playwrights, and even you, our esteemed audience.

In this student-directed production, our wonderful cast and crew have tackled the task of bringing this fast-paced, thrilling comedy to life. They have embraced this whirlwind of a process with grace, from each quick change to each lighting cue, and we are incredibly fortunate to work with such a talented and dedicated group of people.

As we invite you on this thrilling journey, sharpen your wits, pay close attention to clues, and trust no one – not even your fellow audience members.

Enjoy the show!

Anjali Khiani & Heena Kim, Co-Directors

May 2-4 | 7:00pm

AUTHORS

JASON PIZZARELLO & PATRICK GREENE

PRESENTED BY THEATRE IV HONORS AND TECHNICAL THEATRE III

HONORS

SCENIC DESIGN WALTER KUCHAREWSKI & TAYLA TURNQUEST

STAGE MANAGER OLIVER KAELIN

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR MATEO ROSS

ASSISTANT TECHNICAL DIRECTOR WALTER KUCHAREWSKI

PRODUCTION MANAGERS KATIE LOPES & LILY LE

LIGHTING DESIGN/ELECTRICIAN GAVIN TAAN

COSTUMES & MAKEUP GREY HILL & LAKARAH VANCE

MASTER CARPENTER/SOUND DESIGN AIDEN TANNER

ASSISTANT LIGHTING DESIGN & MARKETING SHASH TYAGI

MARKETING & PUBLICITY MAYA BANGALORE

ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER, BACKSTAGE MANAGER, & MARKETING KEYA SHAH

SET DRESSING/PROPS/SCENIC PAINTING BAILEY COFFEE

ASSISTANT SET DRESSING & PROPS TAYLA TURNQUEST

DIRECTED BY

PROGRAM

SETTING

A manor house, the set of A Spot of Murder

There will be one ten-minute intermission.

CAST

Keira Gimbal/Marsha Humboldt/Alwyn Grey/Lucy LONNI ADAMS

Taylor Franklin/Sylvia Lafevre/Patty/Carol Humboldt VALERIE TSAI

Mark Trumball/Jason Greene/Sammy Mulvaney/Linus JUSTIN WONG

Thornton Jackson/Carl Custodian/ VEDANTH RAMACHANDRAN Harold Bund/Charlie Brown

Suzanna Phillips/Constance Flugelbert/Xander Bell INIKA MUKHERJEE

Trudy Mitchell/Scout Tatum BELLA NGUYEN

Detective Drake GWEN LUNDGAARD

Sinclair Hemmings KATHRYN MAE PARMENTER

Greta Cranston/Dame MacGraffe JORDAN JONES

BIOGRAPHIES

Maya Bangalore is a graduating senior and has been actively involved in Valley Christian Theatre since freshman year. Some favorite VCT experiences have included playing Viola in Twelfth Night and Cinderella in Into the Woods! Maya is the marketing and fundraising manager for this show and is extremely thankful for the skill-building opportunity through this Experiments production, and hopes the audience enjoys this wonderful show!

Bailey is a Junior Technical Theatre III Honors student and did props, set dressing, and scenic painting for this year’s Experiments. This year is Bailey’s fifth year in the theater program at Valley, having been a part of many VCT productions including The Play That Goes Wrong, Bye Bye Birdie, and Into the Woods. Bailey is excited to see this show flourish and for other theater experiences in the future.

Grey Hill is a senior here at Valley Christian and has been doing theatre for four years. Grey has played many roles, most recently The Narrator in Into The Woods and Sir Toby in Twelfth Night. While off stage, Grey has been doing cosplay for over 5 years and is excited to put those skills to use as a co-costumer for This Murder Was Staged!

Oliver Kaelin is thrilled to be the stage manager for this production of This Murder Was Staged! A technical theatre student since freshman year, Oliver is so excited to work alongside his peers. This process has been a blast— enjoy the show!

Anjali Khiani is a graduating senior and has loved these four years in Valley Christian Theatre. Some past favorite productions include Bye Bye Birdie and Into the Woods. Anjali is thrilled to Co-Direct This Murder Was Staged, having thoroughly enjoyed performing as the White Rabbit in last year’s Experiments. Anjali is honored to bring this show to life alongside her Co-Director, Heena, and the entire cast and crew!

Anjali Khiani Co-Director

Oliver Kaelin Stage Manager

Maya Bangalore Marketing & Fundraising Manager

Bailey Coffee Set Dressing/Props Designer/Scenic Painter

Grey Hill Co-Costumer

BIOGRAPHIES

Heena Kim Co-Director

Walter Kucharewski Set Designer/Assistant Technical Director

Lily Le

Co-Production Manager

Katie Lopes Co-Production Manager

Heena is currently a senior in the Valley Christian Theatre Program, and is thrilled to be first-time directing alongside one of her closest friends. This marks Heena’s seventh year in the program and third year as a Conservatory Honors Theatre Fellow. During that time, Heena has taken on roles such as Baker’s Wife (Into the Woods), Uzo (Godspell), and Queen of Hearts (Alice in Wonderland). As Heena prepares to say goodbye to the program that has been called ‘home’ for the last seven years, heartfelt gratitude goes to Mrs. Kaelin, Prof C, Mrs. Diepenbrock, Mr. McPherson, and Professor Miller for their unwavering support and mentorship.

Walter Kucharewski is a senior in Technical Theatre III Honors and designed the set for this year’s Experiments. After starting in technical theatre at the beginning of Junior year, Walter has had the privilege of being a part of several VCT shows, including The Play That Goes Wrong and Twelfth Night Walter is excited to see this show come to fruition, and is grateful for all the experiences and friendships he has had in this program.

Lily Le is a senior in the Theatre IV Honors class, serving as one of the production managers for this year’s Experiments, and has been performing on stage with VCT since 8th grade. Past credits include Ursula in Bye Bye Birdie and Alice in Alice in Wonderland. Lily has loved planning meals and designing the poster and shirts for this show!

Katie Lopes is a graduating senior at Valley Christian, and has been a part of Valley Christian Theatre for four years. Favorite roles include Olivia in Twelfth Night and Lucinda in Into the Woods. Additionally, Katie has served as the Student House Manager for six Valley Christian productions. Gratitude goes to the wonderful staff and students in the department that have made this experience in the theatre program so amazing. Enjoy the performance!

BIOGRAPHIES

Keya

Shah Backstage Manager/ Assistant Stage Manager

Aiden Tanner Master Carpenter/ Sound Designer

Tayla

Turnquest Assistant Scenic Design/Props

Shash

Tyagi Assistant Lighting Design/Marketing

Lakarah Vance Co-Costumer

Keya Shah is a graduating senior at Valley Christian High School and has been an active participant of Valley Christian Theatre throughout high school. Some favorite experiences here with VCT include playing Jack’s Mother in Into the Woods, One Girl in Bye Bye Birdie, and getting the opportunity to be the Backstage and Stage Manager for the high school dance shows. Keya is incredibly excited to go through the process of being a Backstage Manager once again and hopes everyone enjoys the show!

Aiden Tanner has done technical theater since 8th grade, and has had a lot of fun and learned how to be self-sufficient working the many high school productions.

Tayla is a senior in Theatre IV Honors and is excited to be a part of the production team for this show. Normally on stage, Tayla enjoys working backstage as well. Most recent roles include Fabian in Twelfth Night, Caterpillar/Turtle/Knave of Hearts in Alice in Wonderland, and Denise in The Play That Goes Wrong (all at Valley Christian High School). Tayla hopes to continue theatre in college and beyond.

Shash has been doing Technical Theatre from freshman to junior year, and is planning for a fourth year as a break from the monotony of a classroom. Shash is thankful for the friendships and mentors in the VCT program.

Lakarah debuted on stage at VCT as a sophomore and is extremely grateful for the opportunity to participate in the Theatre program at Valley Christian High School. Some favorite memories and moments were as the Mad Hatter in Alice in Wonderland, also directed by peers last year for Experiments. Lakarah is extremely excited to finish off this last year being involved with organizing the costumes and makeup elements!

AFFIRMING THE ARTS

Spring 2024

Jan 20.................................... West Coast Elite Dance Competition - HS Dance

Feb 8-10.................................. Newsies Jr. - JH Theatre

Mar 8........................................ Serenade to Spring - JH/HS Strings

Mar 8-9.................................... 14-16, 21-23 Into The Woods - HS Theatre

Apr 11...................................... Percussion Extravaganza - JH Drums/HS Percussion

Apr 13..................................... An Evening of Note with Elliot Wuu - K-12 Music

Apr 18.................................... Faith, Hope, and Love - JH/HS Choirs

Apr 25-27............................... Emotions: Movie Night - HS Dance

May 2-4.................................. Experiments in Comedy & Tragedy - HS Theatre

May 6-17................................. Art Show - EL Art

May 10-11................................ Imagine a Dragon - EL Theatre

May 14.................................... Festival of the Arts - K-12 Music

May 15-22............................... Art Show - JH/HS Art

May 16-18................................ DanceScapes: Hollywood - EL/JH Dance

May 22.................................... Theatre & Dance Senior Showcase - HS Conservatory 11

SUMMER THEATRE CAMP

JUNE 10-21, 2024

for students entering 3 rd -5 th grade

Summer Theatre 2024: Journey of the Noble Gnarble

Dates

June 10-21 (Closed June 19) (Monday-Friday)

Time 9am-12pm

Cost $495

Grades

Entering Grades 3-5 (Co-Ed)

Location

Valley Christian Schools 100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111

Instructor

Mrs. Myra Kaelin

Mr. Justin McPherson

It’s time for SUMMER THEATRE CAMP! The ocean floor is filled with the rarest of creatures, but none are as rare as gnarbles. Their fins are small, their tails are floppy, and they have never strayed far from their homes…until now. Journey of the Noble Gnarble is a story of a little gnarble with a big dream. Friends along the way teach him the importance of positivity and determination!

Join us for a two-week, half-day camp for students entering grades 3-5. These young actors will focus on learning lines, basic stage directions, introductory vocals, stage movement, and even technical theatre, culminating with a performance of Journey of the Noble Gnarble on June 21. This year’s camp is not to be missed, and will give budding thespians great building blocks for their future at VCT.

No camp on Wednesday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth.

Camp Performance June 21 at 12pm in the Skyway Theatre, immediately after our camp day.

Note: Daily snack and camp t-shirt included. If you have questions, or if all spots are full when you go to register, please contact Rebekah Risk, rrisk@vcs.net, to be placed on a waitlist.

SUMMER THEATRE CAMP JUNE

10-28, 2024

for students entering 6 th -12 th grade

Summer Theatre 2024: Moana Jr.

Dates

June 10-28 (Closed June 19) (Monday-Friday)

Time 9am-3pm

Cost $695

Grades

Entering Grades 6-12 (Co-Ed)

Location

Valley Christian Schools 100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111

Instructor Mrs. Myra Kaelin

Mr. Justin McPherson

This thrilling and heartwarming coming-of-age story follows the strong-willed Moana as she sets sail across the Pacific on an epic journey to save her village and discover the truth about her heritage. With empowering messages of bravery and selflessness, Moana JR. is sure to bring out the hero within each of us.

Join us for a three-week, full day camp for students entering grades 6-12. Students will spend their days rehearsing vocals, choreography, and staging, leading up to performances on June 27 & 28. Every student is guaranteed a role in the show! Join us for a summer filled with creativity, growth, and the magic of Moana JR!

No camp on Wednesday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth.

June 27-28: adjusted schedule, 3:30pm-7:30pm, to accommodate performances.

Performances June 27-28 at 6pm in the Skyway Theatre.

Note: Camp fee includes daily snack and camp t-shirt. Students must bring a lunch from home. If you have questions, or if all spots are full when you go to register, please contact Rebekah Risk, rrisk@vcs.net, to be placed on a waitlist.

WARRIOR FUND

Tuition funds operations. Philanthropy fuels vision. Every gift makes a difference, so please consider donating to the Warrior Fund today.

UPCOMING EVENTS

uest Ball

presented by Extend the Gift

April 5, 2025

Join us for our annual Quest Ball dinner and auction. Enjoy a night to honor and celebrate the Warrior legacy and Extend the Gift for current and future Warriors. vcs.net/questball

May 13, 2024

We look forward to welcoming the VCS community for a round of golf and a day of fellowship at the annual Golf Classic. vcs.net/golfclassic

Wherever you may be, we’re always here to support our amazing alumni like you.

As you continue to make a positive difference in communities around the world, we want to stay connected! We currently have 29 ambassadors all over the country that have connected with fellow alums near them. This past year we have visited 11 cities across the US and look forward to hosting an alumni dinner near you soon. Simply scan the QR code and fill out our “Alumni Connect Form” to stay updated on news and events. Let us know about where you’ve been, where you’re headed and stay connected with us today!

Giving PLANNED

The Shechem Oak Society empowers our community to make an extraordinary impact on future generations. The society comprises all who generously bequeath legacy gifts to Valley Christian Schools.

God assured Abraham of keeping His promise to grant the land to Abraham’s descendants. Shechem holds a significant place in this narrative—it’s where Jacob excavated a well and erected an altar, where Joseph’s family laid his remains to rest, where Joshua delivered his parting words in service to the Lord, and where Jesus revealed Himself as the Messiah to the Samaritan woman at the well (Genesis 12:6, 33:18, Joshua 24:26, John 4:12). Shechem stands as a powerful symbol of God’s faithfulness across generations. We fervently pray that VCS, like Shechem, will serve as a reminder of God’s unwavering faithfulness in Silicon Valley and worldwide.

At a time when many American educational institutions are straying from biblical values, you can ensure that Valley Christian Schools continues its Quest for Excellence™ for future generations. Join us in providing high-quality Christ-centered education to our children and grandchildren by including VCS in your will.

VCS partners with Thompson & Associates to offer confidential and complimentary estate planning consultations to our board members, administrators, faculty, staff, and community. Join my wife, Kris, myself, and others in discovering the most tax-efficient means of transferring your estate to benefit your family and your passions.

As a trusted member of our VCS community, please accept our gift to you and arrange your estate planning consultation with Darren Penny of Thompson & Associates. You may email advancement@vcs.net or call my office at 408-513-2503. If you have already included VCS in your planned giving, kindly inform us so we may include you in our Shechem Oak Society.

Looking forward,

Clifford E. Daugherty, Ed.D. President

MISSION STATEMENT

Valley Christian Schools’ mission is to provide a nurturing environment o ering quality education supported by a strong foundation of Christian values in partnership with parents, equipping students to become leaders to serve God, to serve their families, and to positively impact their communities and the world.

VISION STATEMENT

A world where every student pursues their personal Quest for Excellence™

FOUNDING STATEMENT

Valley Christian Schools supports the homes and churches of students in providing an education that is grounded in the Judeo-Christian values of the Bible, as reflected in the life and teaching of Jesus Christ. Valley Christian Schools is committed to a Quest for Excellence™ in all of its educational programs, and provides a comprehensive kindergarten through twelfth grade curriculum with a rigorous college preparatory program. Firmly founded on Christian values, Valley Christian Schools challenges youth to aspire toward lives of character, service and influence while pursuing their individual Quests for Excellence

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