Yavapai College Performing Arts Department presents
Toni Tennille in
Book by Michael Stewart Music and Lyrics by Jerry Herman Based on the play The Matchmaker by Thornton Wilder Original Production Directed and Choreographed by Gower Champion Produced for the Broadway Stage by David Merrick and Champion Five, Inc. HELLO, DOLLY! is presented by arrangement with TAMS-WITMARK, a Concord Theatricals Company www.concordtheatricals.com
Directed by Craig John Ralston & Scottie Scott
PROGRAM NOTES What an incredible journey Hello Dolly! has been. Three years ago, when I asked Toni to star in our Yavapai College production, she carefully considered about coming out of retirement for this amazing role. I was delighted when she graciously agreed to work with me, and so our visioning began. Then our world stopped due to Covid. We spent much of our lockdown-time designing and planning, of course having no idea that we wouldn’t take to the stage until November of 2022. But here we are, ready to present the timeless work of musical theater that is Hello, Dolly! to you today! With a cast of almost 50, and a crew of around 30, we have journeyed together on the largest project our Performing Arts Department has undertaken thus far. I have had the privilege to work with a talented and dedicated production team who have worked their magic over many months of hard labor. Casting for the show brought nearly 100 folks from our community to auditions. Our cast began dance training in January, continuing summer rehearsals with our incredible choreographers, leading to production rehearsal is August. The most unique aspect of this production has been to work with Grammy award-winning artist Toni Tennille! Growing up in southern Africa in the seventies, I listened to Captain and Tennille records along with ABBA, the Carpenters and more. I could never have imagined that one day I would live in the United States, find my dream job in our amazing Prescott arts community, and know – and work – with Toni. She is a truly remarkable person who has brought to us years of professional experience, her incredible talent, and a warmth of heart and being that has touched our lives deeply. Our cast loves Toni fiercely and she has returned that back to us with her dedication to Dolly and to the art of performance. “Once in a lifetime” is appropriate in describing this journey we have been on together with Toni!
PROGRAM NOTES Each member of the cast in this production is from Yavapai County and is a Yavapai College student. We are blessed with so much talent in our region and I want you to be proud, along with me, with what has been accomplished here on this show. YC Performing Arts truly transforms the lives of our students and community members, and I am so blessed to be a part of this collaborative journey. When Toni asked me to be her Horace Vandergelder, I questioned if I should direct or act. Unable to choose between such amazing opportunities, I took on the challenge of both. A huge “Thank-you” to Toni, to the cast, and to the crew, for the experience of a lifetime! Thank you for your support of the arts and of Yavapai College! Warmly, Craig John Ralston
SYNOPSIS Act I In turn-of-the-century New York, everyone turns to professional meddler and matchmaker Dolly Gallagher-Levi for advice on romance, practical matters, and everything else (“Call on Dolly”). Dolly, of course, is happy to oblige (“I Put My Hand In”). Meanwhile in Yonkers, miserly half-a-millionaire Horace Vandergelder, a widowed shop owner, seeks a second wife (“It Takes A Woman”). He then hires Dolly to find him a suitable match. Though she arranges for Horace to meet the young widow Irene Molloy, Dolly clearly has her own interest in Horace – and his money. Elsewhere, a young artist named Ambrose Kemper seeks Dolly’s assistance in acquiring the hand of Vandergelder’s niece, Ermengarde. When Vandergelder leaves Yonkers for New York City to court Mrs. Molloy, his clerks, Cornelius Hackl and Barnaby Tucker, decide to take an unauthorized holiday themselves, vowing to find adventure in the big city (“Put on Your Sunday Clothes”). Meanwhile, in her New York hat shop, Irene wistfully considers pursuing a new relationship, or at least a flirtation, after years of mourning her late husband (“Ribbons Down My Back”). Barnaby and Cornelius arrive in New York City and excitedly explore the sights. They spot Vandergelder on the sidewalk and hurriedly take refuge in the nearest shop, which happens to be Irene’s millinery. Cornelius and Irene are immediately smitten, but Vandergelder appears at the shop door, and the young men scramble to hide. Dolly, arriving just in time, joins Irene and her assistant Minnie Fay as they distract the irate Vandergelder (“Motherhood March”). Frustrated and thoroughly flummoxed, Vandergelder leaves in a huff.
SYNOPSIS Act I, continued As partial recompense, Dolly orders the clerks to take Irene and Minnie to the lavish Harmonia Gardens restaurant for dinner. Cornelius, who clearly could never afford such an extravagance, claims he can’t dance, but the versatile Mrs. Levi teaches him on the spot, and soon the two couples are waltzing romantically (“Dancing”). Dolly pushes Irene towards Cornelius under the allusion that he is a wealthy young gentleman from a good family. The young quartet runs off to watch a parade, and Dolly – addressing her late husband, Ephraim – reaffirms a desire to move on with her life (“Before the Parade Passes By”).
Act II Cornelius and Barnaby, too poor to afford a taxi, persuade the ladies that walking to the restaurant is far more elegant than hiring a hack (“Elegance”). At the Harmonia Gardens, Rudolph, the majordomo, exhorts his waiters to provide even better and faster service tonight – Dolly Levi is coming back! In a welter of dazzling precision, crisscrossing at breakneck speed, the staff prepares for Dolly’s arrival (“The Waiters’ Gallop”). Cornelius and party arrive and occupy a luxurious private dining booth, complete with drawn curtain. Horace and his date, Ernestina Money, reputed by the conniving Dolly to be an heiress, sit in another. Ernestina, who proves to be less refined than Horace had hoped, soon gets drunk and passes out.
SYNOPSIS Act II, continued Finally, Dolly makes her grand entrance and the entire restaurant celebrates (“Hello, Dolly!”). Dolly settles down to eat with Horace, talking incessantly and repeatedly rejecting a proposal of marriage… which he never makes. A dance contest begins (“The Polka Contest”), and just as Ambrose and Ermengarde are declared the winners, Horace discovers he has the wrong wallet; he and Barnaby, through a mix-up, have exchanged them. In the melee that follows, Rudolph calls the police, and the whole party is arrested. In the courthouse, Cornelius admits he’s no playboy millionaire, but it doesn’t matter; he loves Irene and he’ll always have the memory of one miraculous day (“It Only Takes A Moment”). The judge, moved by Cornelius’ sentiment – and persuaded by Counselor-at-Law Dolly Levi – dismisses everyone except Horace. Horace expects Dolly to help him, but instead she chooses to walk away (“So Long, Dearie”). The next morning, back in Yonkers, a chastened and rebuked Horace Vandergelder reflects on the recent events in his life and realizes he’s hopelessly in love with Dolly. Dolly enters the store and convinces Horace to take Cornelius as his business partner and allow Ambrose and Ermengarde to marry. Still unsure about marrying Horace, Dolly asks her late husband Ephraim for a sign. Horace, who has hired a fledgling businessman to renovate his home, spontaneously repeats an old saying of Ephraim's: “Money is like manure. It's not worth a thing unless it’s spread about, encouraging young things to grow.” Satisfied, Dolly agrees to marry Horace and vows she’ll “never go away again” (Finale: “Hello, Dolly”).
The Hello, Toni! souvenir book features 32 pages of vivid color production pho-tographs of the cast and set, giving insight into creating this spectacular musical! Purchase one of these cus-tom books in the lobby before or after the show. To commemerate this magnificent production of Hello, Dolly! starring Toni Tennille. $20
Support your local Yavapai College Performing Arts Department Scholarship Fund when you purchase a custom ornament exclusively designed for Hello, Dolly! starring Toni Tennille. This 3-inch, laser-etched, 2D crystal ornament has rich facets along the circumference and comes in a gift box. $50
TONI TENNILLE Cathryn Antoinette “Toni” Tennille was born and raised in Montgomery, Alabama. Her father Frank, a big band singer, and her mother Cathryn, an early TV talk show host, instilled a love of music and the arts in Toni and her three sisters – Jane, Louisa, and Melissa – from a very young age. Toni studied classical piano for ten years and attended Auburn University, where she was a vocalist with the Auburn Knights Orchestra. She left Alabama and followed her family in a move to California. The rest, as they say, is history. Toni met Daryl Dragon when he auditioned for her as a keyboardist for a musical she had written called Mother Earth. At the time, he was on a hiatus from touring with the Beach Boys. He, in turn, then recommended her to play keyboards for the Beach Boys. Toni then became the only “Beach Girl” ever, playing and performing with the group for over a year. Toni and Daryl made beautiful music together, Toni writing the music and lyrics of many of their songs and Daryl arranging them. With his inimitable, quirky style and Toni’s sultry voice, the Captain and Tennille had hit songs, TV specials, and their own show during the 70’s. “Love Will Keep Us Together”, written by Neil Sedaka and Howie Greenfield, won a Grammy for Record of the Year in 1975. “Do That to Me One More Time”, written by Toni, hit #1 on the charts in 1980.
TONI TENNILLE In 1984, Toni began her own solo career, performing with big bands and symphonies, and recording her own CD’s from the great American songbook that she grew up with and loved. More Than You Know and Things Are Swingin’ are two of her solo albums. When she and Daryl moved to Prescott in 2008, Toni brought her two Australian Shepherds with her and became an active participant in the local Aussie club. She and her therapy dog, Smoky, visited YRMC for many years a comfort for the patients, their families, and the hospital staff. As singing was still one of her greatest joys, Toni also became active in Yavapai College’s Master Chorale as well as with the Prescott Pops. Impressed by Yavapai College’s Performing Arts Department and the immense talent of all ages here in Prescott, she came out of retirement for the role of Dolly Levi. In that role, Toni wants to showcase all that the college and its community of players has to offer. Toni hopes that you will enjoy Hello, Dolly! and will continue to support the arts in Prescott and at Yavapai College. This will be her final starring role onstage, as she gladly turns the spotlight over to the very talented future stars being nurtured right here in this amazing facility.
CAST OF CHARACTERS Mrs. Dolly Gallagher-Levi……………...Toni Tennille Horace Vandergelder…………………Craig John Ralston Cornelius Hackl…………………………...Wesley Traver Barnaby Tucker……….James Howell & Duncan Calhoun Irene Molloy………………………………Stephanie Zeh Minnie Fay…………………………..Georgia Harrington Ambrose Kemper……………………Makena Morishima Ermengarde………………………………..Julie Woolsey Ernestina Cash Money……………….Leah Cheri Morales Rudolph Reisenweber……………………..Don Langford Mrs. Rose…………………………………....Linda Miller Judge………………………………………...Marnie Uhl Stanley……………………………………..Kennan King
CAST OF CHARACTERS Lead Ensemble Duncan Calhoun
Kennan King
Kelsey Claire
Emily Lawhead
Tori Daniels
John Simon Medina
Ash DiCristina
Meghan Paquette
Alyssa Ebel
Danielle Peterson
Jacob Eriksson
Mary Rizk
Thomas Ewell
André G. Sylvester
James Howell
Andrea MH Sylvester
AJ Jackson
Luis Tovar
Greg James
Anthony Veneziano
Olivia Keating
CAST OF CHARACTERS Townspeople Tanner Bond
Crystal Ogden
Ariella Centeno
Monte Reichert
Madison Eden
Gina Steverson
Mary Heller
Norah Steverson
Lee Howard
Maya Traver
Adriana King
Deb Vernam
Debbie Lipely
Talia Weiss
Phil Middleton
Jackson Wells
Aidan Moloney
Kai Yamamoto
ADDITIONAL CAST Understudies Standby for Ms. Tennille…………Kate Howell Horace Vandergelder – André G. Sylvester Ernestina Cash Money & Irene Molloy – Meghan Paquette Ambrose Kemper – Kai Yamamoto Cornelius Hackl – Anthony Veneziano Ermengarde – Ariella Centeno Minnie Fay – Emily Lawhead
ACT ONE Scene 1:
Along Fourth Avenue, New York City “Call on Dolly” …………………Dolly and Company “I Put My Hand In”……………...Dolly and Company
Scene 2:
Vandergelder's Hay and Feed Store, Yonkers “It Takes a Woman”……………….Vandergelder and The Instant Glee Club “Put on Your Sunday Clothes”……...Cornelius, Dolly, Barnaby, Ambrose, Ermengarde
Scene 3:
The Yonkers Depot “Put on Your Sunday Clothes”……People of Yonkers
Scene 4:
Mrs. Molloy’s Hat Shop – Water Street, New York City “Ribbons Down My Back”……………………..Irene “Motherhood”…………………Dolly, Vandergelder, Irene, Minnie “Dancing”………………...Dolly, Cornelius, Barnaby, Minnie, Irene, and Dancers
Scene 5:
Fourteenth Street “Before the Parade Passes By”…………………Dolly, Vandergelder, and Company
ACT TWO Scene 1:
In Front of the Hoffman House Hotel, on Fifth Avenue “Elegance”………………………….Irene, Cornelius, Minnie, Barnaby
Scene 2:
Inside the Harmonia Gardens Restaurant, on the Battery “The Waiters Gallop”…………Rudolph and waiters “Hello, Dolly!”………………………Dolly, Rudolph, waiters, cooks
Scene 3:
A Courtroom on Centre Street “It Only Takes a Moment”………….Cornelius, Irene, witnesses, policemen “So Long, Dearie”…………...Dolly and Vandergelder
Scene 4:
Vandergelder's Hay and Feed Store, Yonkers “Hello, Dolly!”………………….Dolly, Vandergelder Finale……………………………………...Company
DIRECTORS Craig John Ralston Director & Artistic Designer
Horace Vandergelder Dr. Craig John Ralston is the Programming Director of YCPAC and Associate Dean of Performing Arts at Yavapai College in Prescott, AZ. He has been in education for over thirty years – teaching, directing, performing and administrating. His past eight years at Yavapai College have been deeply rewarding as he has directed both the performing arts academic program and the Yavapai College Performing Arts Center. He has instituted new musical theatre and technical theatre programs, expanded performances for the CUES! educational series and programmed extended show offerings in the Verde Valley. One of his passions is directing musicals and he has greatly enjoyed each of the shows he has conducted and directed here at YC: The Phantom of the Opera, It’s A Wonderful Life, The Secret Garden, Little Women, Willy Wonka, A Christmas Carol, and now Hello, Dolly! Prior to coming to Arizona, Dr. Ralston was Chair of Fine Arts at Clearwater College in Clearwater, FL for 16 years. He is a judge for the International Piano Guild and the United States Open Music Competition and a published composer who regularly performs as a pianist and vocalist. His educational background includes Piano and Theory diplomas from the London Royal Schools of Music and a BS, MM and DMA in music from various institutions.
DIRECTORS Scottie Scott Acting Director Scottie Scott received her degree in Acting from Arizona State University, studying under the Tony Awardwinning director Marshall Mason, the founder and artistic director of the Circle Repertory Theatre. She earned her Master’s in Classical Acting from Brandeis University. Scott has worked and trained professionally in Boston and New York in theatre, T.V. and film. She holds a certificate of completion from the Neighborhood Playhouse in the Meisner technique and is a certified theatrical combatant. She was last seen on stage playing Mrs. Jennings, as a guest artist at UNLV, in Sense and Sensibility and was Miep in The Diary of Anne Frank at the Las Vegas Smith Center. Scott’s YC credits include fight choreographer and dialect coach for The Phantom of the Opera, and co-director of It’s a Wonderful Life. Other stage credits include Celia, As You Like It; Mary Warren, The Crucible; Chrysothemis, Agamemnon and his Daughters; Narrator, Animal Farm; Sun Goddess, Origins of the Sea; Judy, Balm and Gilead; Jenny Mae, The Diviners; Infanta, Birthday of the Infanta and she was a performer for Disney Regional Entertainment. Scott’s Film and Television credits include co-creator and actor in Flock of Meese with Cohencidence Productions. She has starred as recurring characters in ABC’s As the World Turns, has made numerous featured appearances on the travel channel and has worked on local commercials. While living in Las Vegas, for 15 years, her performing credits included various acting and showgirl engagements at hotels and casinos, convention work, directing and vocal coaching opportunities. Scott is also the proud commissioner of Clan Scott for the Southwest.
CAST Tanner Bond Townsperson Tanner is fairly new to theatre productions. He made his debut earlier this year in YC’s production of Chicago. His passions is to eventually go into film and television. Tanner is incredibly thrilled to be a part of Hello, Dolly! Duncan Calhoun Barnaby Tucker Duncan is honored to be part of this incredible production. Duncan has been doing theatre at YC since he was very young, and one of his first shows here was The Music Man where he played Winthrop Peru. He hopes to go on to have a working life in performing arts. Barnaby is one of his dream roles. Duncan would like to thank his amazing directors and fellow cast members.
Ariella Centeno Townsperson & Ermengarde understudy Ariella is excited to be a part of this once-in-a-lifetime production. Ariella has been performing since she was five years old. Earlier this year, she was honored to have the opportunity to portray Anne in The Diary of Anne Frank at Scottsdale Center for the Arts as her first professional role. She hopes the audience will have as much fun watching as the actors have performing. Kelsey Claire Lead Ensemble Kelsey has been performing on the stage since she was 12 years old. She is a graduate of The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts, is the previous director of Park Avenue Theatre and is the current drama teacher at Basis Prescott. After taking a break from performing, she is pleased to take the stage again in Hello, Dolly!
CAST Tori Daniels Lead Ensemble Tori has been acting on stage for nine years, with this being her seventh musical. After finishing her senior year in high school, she plans to pursue a degree in film and media. Her gratitude goes out to YC Performing Arts Department for its dedication to teaching actors. Tori would also like to thank her close friends and family for always supporting her passions. Ash DiCristina Lead Ensemble This is the third musical that Ash has been involved with at YC. She grew up in the Prescott area, is currently teaching, and enjoys trail running. She feels extremely grateful to everyone who has been involved in the production, and to all of you who have come to see this show.
Alyssa Ebel Lead Ensemble Alyssa is ecstatic to be jumping and twirling back onto the YC stage in Hello, Dolly! Her previous roles consist of Mrs. Banks in Mary Poppins, The Ghost of Christmas Future in A Christmas Carol, and various ensemble roles over the years. She graduated from YC in 2019 with her AAFA in Performing Arts. After a break from acting, she is ready to return to the stage that provided her with amazing support and fulfilling opportunities, and she couldn't be more grateful. Madison Eden Townsperson This is Maddie’s first time performing in a production at YC. She is currently working on her AAFA and plans to graduate next fall. She is extremely excited to work with Toni Tennille in Hello, Dolly! and hopes you all enjoy the show!
CAST Jacob Eriksson Lead Ensemble Hello, Dolly! is the third production at YC that Jake has had the opportuninty to be a part of. He has learned so much from the performing arts faculty and is grateful to be a part of this once-in-a-lifetime show. Theatre has given him a new sense of meaning and purpose in life and he is excited for what the future holds. Thomas Ewell Lead Ensemble Thomas started his musical theater career in YC’s production of A Christmas Carol as Young Scrooge. Since then he has been in Newsies with Prescott High School, Frozen with Prescott Center for the Arts, and The Phantom of the Opera with YC. When not performing in musical theatre, Thomas enjoys playing clarinet in the YC Symphonic Band. He is also pursuing his Associates of Arts as part of YC’s Early College program.
Georgia Harrington Minnie Fay Georgia is thrilled to be on the YC stage for the second time. She has been involved in theatre, dance, and voice since she was young, with her mama, Julie Harrington, as her #1 fan and inspiration. She is honored to be a part of this incredible opportunity, and wants to thank her fellow cast and crew. It’s been a wonderful experience with Toni Tennille and she’s honored she’s had the chance to see a true star in action. Mary Heller Townsperson Mary is a dance educator and choreograper. Hailing from Chicago, and a principal dancer in four dance companies, including the Dayton Ballet, Mary is happy to have taught and witnessed the cast’s growth in in ballet and tap. She has choreographed musicals such as Oklahoma at the University of Idaho and The Phantom of the Opera at YC, where she teaches dance.
CAST Lee Howard Townsperson Since her 2013 retirement, mus-ical theatre has become Lee's new career. Hello, Dolly! is the 11 th show she has been in and she has assisted with set painting for 16 shows. Each cast has been special in its own way but this one even more so, as she has had the privilege of working with Toni! “Thank you to all for the opportunity!” Kate Howell Dolly Levi Standby A veteran on the stage, her YC roles have included: Madame Giry The Phantom of the Opera; Miss Andrew Mary Poppins; Mrs. Potts Disney's Beauty and the Beast; and Marmee March Little Women. Her favorite roles in national tours and regional theatre include: Eva Evita; Audrey Little Shop of Horrors; Marian Paroo The Music Man; The Lady of the Lake Spamalot; Guenevere Camelot; Oolie/Donna City of Angels; Rose Gypsy; Christine Colgate Dirty
Rotten Scoundrels; Cinderella Into the Woods; Drood The Mystery of Edwin Drood; and Grace Farrell Annie. Kate is so proud of her son, James, who plays a “Barnaby”! “Thank you for supporting the Arts in our community”. James Howell Barnaby Tucker Holy Cabooses! James is delighted to be in his third YC production, with some of his favorite people. He was previously seen as Michael Banks in Mary Poppins and Chip in Disney's Beauty and the Beast. Currently a junior at Tri-City Prep, James sends love and thanks to all who have been so supportive throughout this experience. His performance is dedicated to his grandmother, Grace.
CAST AJ Jackson Lead Ensemble Isaac “AJ” Jackson is a student at Prescott High School as well as YC. Along with church plays when he was younger, his credits include Dr. Watson Sherlock Holmes: Hound of the Baskervilles, US: A Teen History, and Matilda, as well as as Napoleon in the PHS production of Animal Farm and, most recently YC’s production of Chicago. After graduating, AJ wants to pursue film acting and make it a lifetime career. Greg James Lead Ensemble Greg is honored to be in his third YC production, having previously appeared in The Phantom of the Opera and It's a Wonderful Life. Other recent roles include Harry Mamma Mia and Grandpa Joe Willy Wonka at PCA. Favorite past roles include Harold Hill The Music Man, Curly Oklahoma , and Fred/ Petruccio Kiss Me Kate. “As always, thanks to Val for her unwavering support and encouragement!”
Olivia Keating Lead Ensemble Olivia is making her YC debut in Hello, Dolly! She has been in shows such as Mamma Mia, The Music Man, Little Shop of Horrors, Into the Woods, Godspell, and many more. She is grateful to be a part of this show and so happy to be back on stage! Adriana King Townsperson Adriana has been a staff member at the YC Costume Shop for three years and is honored to have designed costumes for Hello, Dolly! She also helped designed costumes for YC’s The Phantom of the Opera in 2019. When she is not sketching or sewing for the college, she can be found Lindy-Hopping with her husband, Kennan. “I hope you enjoy our Sunday Clothes and the hard work of each person on and off the stage.”
CAST Kennan King Stanley Kennan is excited to be a part of bringing the magic of Hello, Dolly! and Toni Tennille to the YC stage. His most recent musical credits include lead ensemble in Guys and Dolls at PCA and A Christmas Carol at YC. Kennan graduated with his AA from YC in 2019 and currently works in Prescott as a marketier. He wants to thank the cast and crew for their hard work and asks that you take a moment to appreciate the phenomenal period costumes his wife, Adriana, helped design and construct for the show. “Thank you for putting on your Sunday clothes and I hope you enjoy the show!” Don Langford Rudolph Reisenweber Don’s first show at YC was Man of La Mancha, which was also the inaugural production of the YCPAC in 1992. Don played Don Quixote and Linda Miller was in the vocal ensemble. Now, 30 years later, they have the privilege of sharing the
stage again in Hello, Dolly! This is only possible with the generous support of the Prescott patrons of the arts. “Thank you for all your support of the many productions through the years. With love and gratitude, Don” Emily Lawhead Lead Ensemble Born and raised here in Prescott, Emily grew up performing with Young Star Musical Theatre, Park Avenue Theatre, the Prescott Center for the Arts, and the Prescott Pops Symphony. She is delighted to join the cast of Hello, Dolly! in her second YC production. Emily is a PhD candidate in art history at the University of Oregon, and is currently home finishing her dissertation. She dedicates this performance to her advisor, who mustn’t know the extent to which she has been distracting herself from writing.
CAST John Simon Medina Lead Ensemble John has been acting for the last year and Hello, Dolly! is his third musical. He recently developed a passion for film and theatre and wants to make it to feature films, with Hollywood being his big dream. Directing and producing are also on the horizon soon after a career in acting. Being a great actor is a huge motivation and one that he will continue to work his hardest on. By doing classes, projects, and musicals like Hello, Dolly!, he strives to be the best he possibly can be. Phil Middleton Towensperson Phil and his wife Pat recently relocated to the Prescott area from Albuquerque, NM where he was active in Albuquerque Civic Light Opera Association and Musical Theatre, Southwest. He is looking forward to getting back in front of the lights in Hello, Dolly! Linda Miller Mrs. Rose
Linda is a proud Fellow of the American Association of Community Theatre, Linda is thrilled to have appeared in over 60 local theatre productions and concerts since her debut at San Diego State University. Some of her favorite past roles include Mrs. Lovett, Sweeney Todd; Morticia, Addams Family; and Frau Blucher, Young Frankenstein. She con-siders it a joy and a privilege to be cast in YC’s production of Hello, Dolly! with the iconic Toni Tennille. When not on stage, Linda is an avid swimmer and golfer, and she remains forever grateful for the support of her partner Sean, her many friends, and her colleagues. Aidan Moloney Townsperson Aidan has been acting for six years and Hello, Dolly! will be his eighth show and biggest so far. He looks forward to performing in more shows with YC.
CAST Leah Cheri Morales Ernestina Leah is a Marine Corps veteran, YC graduate and local performer and musician. She is frequently seen on stage playing French horn in the Prescott POPS Symphony Orchestra and The High Desert Brass Quintet. She also sings with the Mood Swing Jazz Combo and the Central Arizona Concert Band. Leah has been in various theatrical performances ranging from Esmeralda in PCA's The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Eponine in Les Misérables, Marta in Company and Velma Kelly in YC’s 2022 production of Chicago. She is also a member of the Vaudevillian Burlesque Troupe at The Movement Studio, where she also serves as the organization's Music Director. Leah is thrilled to be able to portray Ernestina in Hello, Dolly!, and honored to be working with this incredible cast, crew, and directors.
Makena Morishima Ambrose Kemper Makena is thrilled to be playing the role of Ambrose with the amazing cast and crew of Hello, Dolly! This will be his third show at YC and he is honored to be a part of the incredible program offered here. He is very grateful to everyone who has helped make this show happen. Crystal Ogden Townsperson Crystal is delighted to be participating in YC's production of Hello, Dolly! Her recent credits with YC include Chicago and It's a Wonderful Life. She has performed in shows with Prescott Center for the Arts and with One Stage Family Theatre. Her favorite role so far has been playing Donna (Mamma Mia) at the Prescott Elks Theater. She wants to thank all her friends and family who have supported her throughout the years and she looks forward to future shows.
CAST Meghan Paquette Lead Ensemble, Ernestina understudy, & Irene Malloy understudy Meghan is overjoyed to be back on the YC stage. She has performed in various shows in Pennsylvania, New York, and Arizona including 42 nd Street, Grease, Mary Poppins, Mamma Mia, and Anything Goes. Recently Meghan performed as a Confidante in YC’s The Phantom of the Opera. Getting to work with this incredible cast and production team has been a true privilege! Danielle Peterson Lead Ensemble Danielle is delighted to be a part of Hello, Dolly! A YC student studying performing arts, she first appeared on stage at Chino Valley High School, and has been inseparable from the theatre ever since.
Monte Reichert Townsperson A newcomer to the stage, Monte has a background in aerospace engineering but has always had a love of the performing arts. His credits for the stage include Shakespeare in the Pines’ Merry Wives of Windsor/Winslow as Pistol, and Much Ado About Nothing as Antonio. YC performances include It’s a Wonderful Life as Mr. Gower and Chicago as Martin Harrison. Performing on stage is a new passion he recently discovered and the opportunity to join the cast of Hello, Dolly! is truly an honor. Mary Rizk Lead Ensemble Mary is enchanted to be part of such a stunning production. She has performed on the YC stage previously, playing Belle, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast; Little Red Riding Hood, Into the Woods; and Mrs. Martini, It’s a Wonderful Life; among others. As well as performing, Mary has a passion for conducting and directing, which she hopes to incorporate in her future. “Thank you for attending! We hope you have as much of a blast watching this as we did creating it!”
CAST Gina Steverson Townsperson Gina has been frequenting the stage for many years. Previous roles include Fantine in Les Misérables, Mrs. Cratchit in A Christmas Carol, and Madame André in The Phantom of the Opera. Gina has directed and music directed several theatre productions, including Frozen, Peter Pan, and The Hunchback of Notre Dame. She is excited to share the stage with her daughter Norah, her beloved friend Toni, and many other friends. “Love to my fabulous family.” Norah Steverson Townsperson Norah is very enthusiastic to be on the YC stage again. She has been performing for 12 years, and enjoys every second of it. Norah also has experience in choreographing and directing, and loves to coach children in theatre and aspires to be a director and performer in the future.
Andrea MH Sylvester Lead Ensemble Andrea is elated to be in her first YC musical. She joined the Performing Arts Department as a Production Assistant in 2019 and has worked on Hello, Dolly! with Dr. Ralston since that time. She is thankful for the opportunity to join her husband and all the talented performers on stage. It is incredible to see it all come to life! André G. Sylvester Lead Ensemble & Horace Vendergelder understudy A YC graduate, André is ecstatic to perform in Hello, Dolly! He has performed in a multitude of shows with roles including Phantom, The Phantom of the Opera; George Bailey, It’s a Wonderful Life; The Beast, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast; Willard, Footloose; Kenickie, Grease; Amos, The Fantasticks; Carnes, Oklahoma!; Peter, Jesus Christ Superstar; Father, Children of Eden; and Arvide, Guys and Dolls. André is joined by his wife onstage for the first time and appreciates you coming to see the show!
CAST Luis Tovar Lead Ensemble Originally from San Diego, Luis' love for theatre started in High School. His first YC show was Chicago and since then he has fallen in love with theatre and continues to perform around the community. He currently takes voice lessons and classes at YC, while working in facilities. Luis would like to thank the cast, his co-workers, friends, and family: He couldn't be who he is today without any of you. “Love you.”
Wesley Traver Cornelius Hackl Wesley has been performing at YC for six years and this will be his eighth show at YC. Previous roles include Lumière in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Raoul in The Phantom of the Opera, and Mr. Martini in It’s a Wonderful Life. He met his wife at YC through performing and enjoys the opportunity to perform with her on stage. “Thank you for taking a moment to come with us on our adventure while we performed in our Sunday clothes and hopefully we helped to make your day a wonderful one!”
Maya Traver Townsperson Maya is excited to be back performing! She has been involved in musical theatre for over eight years and loves every minute of it. Maya’s roles include Belle in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Sarah Brown in Guys and Dolls, and Mary in It's a Wonderful Life. She is thankful to this community for helping her blossom on her performing arts journey.
Marnie Uhl Judge Marnie is happy to be back onstage in this production of Hello, Dolly! She was last seen in YC’s It's a Wonderful Life where she played the Mayor of Bedford Falls and Mary's mother. She has previously collaborated with PCA where she has performed and served on many other productions both as an actor and technical crew member. She credits theatre for keeping her young! “Thank you to my fellow castmates, crew, and especially the directors for this wonderful opportunity.”
CAST Anthony Veneziano Lead Ensemble & Cornelius Hackl understudy Anthony is ecstatic to be making his YC debut in this production of Hello, Dolly! His recent credits include plays and musicals Mamma Mia, Greater Tuna, several commercials, as well as just wrapping up production in his first leading role in a feature film. He would like to extend a very large and sincere thank you to his friends, family, instructors, and the lovely people at PCA. Anthony would also like to thank YC’s own Dr. Craig Ralston with whom he credits for helping him embrace his interests and artistry. “None of this would have been possible without all of the people who have made me feel so accepted here at YC.” Talia Weiss Townsperson Talia is excited to be in her fifth YC production, with past shows including Mary Poppins, The Phantom of the Opera, It’s A Wonderful Life, and Chicago. Talia studied earned her Associates Degree in Equine Science as well as her certificate in Equine Care and
Management. She also loves reading and listening to music in her free time. Jackson Wells Townsperson Jackson is thrilled to be a part of YC's Hello, Dolly! His recent credits include Seussical the Musical Jr., Footloose, The Addams Family Musical, and Disney's Descendants. Jackson would like to thank his family for all their love and support. He would also like to thank One Stage Family Theatre and Lessons by Lexe: Dance Studio for the training he's recieved and all the great times. Julie Ann Woolsey Ermengarde Julie is thrilled to be performing with the talented cast of Hello, Dolly! and Toni Tennille in particular. She has been participating in theatre for ten years and has performed in productions all over town. She would also like to note that she normally doesn’t cry this much!
CAST Kai Yamamoto Townsperson & Ambrose Kemper Understudy Kai is new to theatre, but he hopes to make it big – I guess we will see how that goes! Hello, Dolly! is Kai’s second production with YC.
Stephanie Zeh Irene Malloy Stephanie Zeh is honored to be a part of this delightful show with its fabulous cast. After a 15 year break from the stage she decided it was time to find her voice again and went on to win Prescott Sings in 2021. She has since started taking lessons with Dr. Joshua Harper and is a part of YC’s Master Chorale. Stephanie has recently performed in It's A Wonderful Life and Chicago. She is smitten to be wearing ribbons down her back for this performance and hopes you enjoy the show!
ADDITIONAL CAST Sir Duncan The King Of Hearts Sur Duncan IL Rei Del Couri Delilah The Queen Of Butterflies Delilah LA Regina Delle Farfelle Handled by Deb Vernam Duncan (2 years old) and Delilah (1½ years old) have successfully obtained their AKC Canine Good Citizen Certification and are working on advanced obedience titles. Their days are spent going to work with Deb and giving hugs and kisses to all their clients. Because of Dalmatians natural affinity to horses they love trips to the barn and running with their horses. Delilah's favorite pastime is chasing balls and frisbees, while Duncan's is chasing Delilah. Deb has had Dalmatians for over 40 years and still enjoys their energetic playfulness and enthusiasm for life. Cooper Awesome’s Star is Born at Desert Wind Handled by Debbie Lipely Cooper became a certified Pet Partners Therapy Dog at 13-months. He currently Volunteers at YRMC and at Sacred Heart Catholic School Pre-K for the Read-to-Me program. If Cooper could speak, he would thank his handler/dog-mom for helping him be successful at making others happy and meeting so many wonderful people. Debbie, a dog trainer with Pawsitively Awesome Dog Training enjoys her passion working with canine companions and their families to help them be successful in their goals.
ORCHESTRA Katie Meyers*
Violin I
Wendy White
Violin I
Phil Kuhns
Violin II
Matt Flippen
Violin II
Bryn Cannon
Viola
Sarah Walder
Cello
David Wauters
Double Bass
Rob Ratner
Flute, Piccolo, Clarinet, Alto Saxophone
Terry Bone
Clarinet, Alto Saxophone
Susan Davis
Tenor Saxophone, Clarinet
Carol Baker
Clarinet, Bass Clarinet, Baritone Saxophone
Brad Moors
Trumpet I
Dean Holbrook
Trumpet II
Kevin Tague
Trumpet II
Luis Morales
Trumpet III
Jesse Lall
Trombone I
Calvin Audis
Trombone II
Lynn Drye
Percussion
George Andrus
Percussion
Remi Tuijl-Goode
Banjo, Guitar
Laura Taylor Turner
Piano
*Concertmaster
PRODUCTION STAFF Director & Artistic Designer
Dr. Craig John Ralston
Acting Director
Scottie Scott
Music Director
Dr. Joshua Harper
Rehearsal Pianists
Laura Taylor-Turner, Ruth Breiling
Vocal Coaches
Dr. Craig John Ralston Dr. Joshua Harper Nanette Hofer
Ms. Tennille’s Vocal Coach
Darrell Rowader
Choreographers
Pamela Cannedy, Stepan Oleksyn
Dance Captains
Kelsey Claire, Meghan Paquette
Assistant Dance Captain
Norah Steverson
Production Assistants
Andrea MH Sylvester, Mary Rizk
Stage Manager
Connie Arnold
Assistant Stage Manager
Ron Lunt
Stage Left Lead
Wendy Miller
Stage Right Lead
Moises Hurtado
Technical Director
Nathaniel Patterson
Assistant Technical Director
David Evans
Technical Manager
April Siebersma
Master Carpenter
Rusten Siebersma
Theatrical Engineer
Robert Crawford
Scenic Carpenter
Porter McDowell
Student Carpenters
Michael Goldsmith, Aki Hale, Jackson James, Sean Moss, Jasal Orduno, Warren Ren
PRODUCTION STAFF Set Dresser
Luis Tovar
Lighting Designer
Pamela Fawns
Light Board Operator
Porter McDowell
Spot Operators
Ron Gallegos, Ben Rogers
Audio Engineer & Operator
Kiersten “Krusty” Mason
Audio Assistants
Kat Annibale, Cheyla Daverman, Jackie Sanders-Preston
Fly Captain
Camden Martinez
Fly Operators
David Evans, Rusten Siebersma
Stage Supervisor
Luke Thesing
Stage Crew
Eric Tuthill, Russ Longshore, Lynette Dysert, Michael Goldsmith, Ali Bringhurst
YCPAC Technical Director
Luke Thesing
Box Office Manager
Scottie Scott
Photographer
Blushing Cactus Photography
Properties
Sally Lunt
Costume Shop Manager
Joanne Cole
Costumer Illustrator
Adriana King
Costume First Hand
Holli Paquette
Costume Technician
Ashley Place
PRODUCTION STAFF Costume & Fabrication Crew
Cole Brackney, Kodi Calais, Joanne Cole, Mary Connor, Robert Crawford, Mary Denton, Margaret Dewey, Georgia Dohleman, Sandy Duncan, Brian Eckles, Bonnie Everett, Kimberly Fyffe, Hannah Hurtado, Adriana King, Kathleen Mercer, Louisa Nelson, Cheryl Osborn, Holli Paquette, Richard Parks, Ashley Place, Margaret Siebersma Erin Bailey Smith, Paula Steadman
Dressers
Autumn “Remy” Morgan, Janet Duke, Crystal Ogden, Adriana King, Andrea MH Sylvester, Alyssa Ebel
Milliner
Sharon Hoeller
Assistant Milliner
Roxie Workizer
Hair and Makeup Coordinator
Olivia K. Ralston
Makeup Coordinator
Makayla Dykstra
Head Makeup Artist
Adrian Rose Ralston
Wig Coordinator
Maren Yamamoto
Wig Stylist
Cheri Echard
PRODUCTION STAFF Administrative Support
Erin Bailey Smith
Scheduling Coordinator
Venessa Ralston Bosma
Practicum Hours Lead
Lee Howard
Food Coordinator
Rosie Centeno
Marketing & Publicity
Kate Howell, Michael Grady, Brian Moultrup, Mary Rizk, April Siebersma, Aki Hale
Graphic Design
Kate Howell
Ms. Tennille’s Personal Assistants
Marie Cranmer Ana Maria Fraijo Stephanie Worstein
PRODUCTION STAFF Dr. Joshua Harper Musical Director Praised for his “inspired” conducting (The Daily Courier), Dr. Joshua Harper is thrilled to be beginning his fourth year at YC as a Professor of Choral Music. Dr. Harper enjoys a multifaceted career as a Conductor, Tenor, and educator. At YC, he directs the Chamber Singers, Master Chorale, Vocal Ensemble, and Community Chorale. Along with the YC Choirs, Dr. Harper teaches Advanced Integrated Music Theory courses, Voice Class, Music of World Cultures, and maintains a private voice studio. Harper’s 22-23 season began as a featured soloist this past summer at “Jazz at Lincoln Center” with the Austin Artists Project in New York City. He will return to NYC in March 23, leading the Yavapai College choruses to Carnegie Hall for a performance of Verdi’s Requiem. Outside of his concert schedule at YC, Harper collaborates with local organizations such as the Arizona Philharmonic and Quartz Ensemble here in Prescott (Elijah - April 23, 2023). He previously served as Music Director at for Chicago and Co-Music Director for It’s a Wonderful Life and The Phantom of the Opera at YC. He has prepared choruses and music directed for productions such as Madame Butterfly, The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs, and In The Heights. A native of Huntsville, Alabama, he holds a Bachelor of Arts in Vocal Performance and Music Composition from Lipscomb University (Nashville, TN), a Masters of Music degree in choral conducting from UMass Amherst and a Doctor of Music degree from the Jacobs School of Music, Indiana University with a minor in Music History and Literature.
PRODUCTION STAFF Pam Cannedy & Stepan Oleksyn Choreographers Pam and Stepan are a husband and wife team of 35 years, who owned a dance and performing arts studio in Phoenix for 30 of those years. Together they have choreographed over 200 shows, conventions, and fashion runway events, working with such greats as Gregory Hines, Savion Glover, Arthur Duncan, and Henry LeTang. Their choreography has been seen at Prescott Center for the Arts as well as YC’s Mary Poppins. Pam had her own television dance show on Phoenix Cable in 1988. Stepan’s family came from Ukraine, moving to New York where Stepan was born. Stepan was a member of the Ukrainian Folk Dance Company (UFDC), touring in upstate New York and Canada, training with professional ballet and Ukrainian choreographers. Working with this very talented cast and production crew of YC’s Hello, Dolly! has a special place in their hearts. Hello, Dolly! is the show where they met in 1985, and the rest is history.
PRODUCTION STAFF Nathaniel Patterson Technical Director Nathaniel Patterson is a technical theatre director and artist originally from Dayton, Ohio. He has worked professionally in the theatre industry since he was 18 and has made his career as a technician, playwright, actor, performer, scenic designer, lighting designer, director, and technical director. He is a proud veteran of the United States Navy and served onboard the submarines USS San Francisco (SSN-711) and USS Helena (SSN-725). After the Navy, he returned to theatre and received his Bachelor's Degree from Washington State University and his Masters Degree from Portland State University. His previous scenic works include: It’s a Wonderful Life: The Musical, A Comedy of Errors, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Radium Girls, Avenue Q, Shrek the Musical, Drowsy Chaperone, Yellow Wallpaper, Spike Heels, and Dog Sees God. His written works include: Seven Snakes, Danish Modern Desk, Mechanical Left/Human Right, Above the Huron Sea, FUBAR: Thank You for Your Service and FUBAR: We Are Still Here. Nathaniel’s technical expertise has taken him backstage for a litany of large scale touring events including working for: Cirque Du Soleil, Disney’s Beauty and The Beast, Phantom, Marvel Universe Live: Marvel on Ice, Eddie Izzard, Sir Elton John, Sir Paul McCartney, Katy Perry, Bruno Mars, NKOTB, Micheal Bublé, Jay-Z, The Foo Fighters, Smashing Pumpkins, Coldplay, Radiohead, Def Leppard, Journey, Ed Sheeran, The UFC and The WWE.
PRODUCTION STAFF Laura Taylor-Turner Rehearsal Accompanist & Pit Orchestra Laura is a collaborative pianist who started her musical career as a young accompanist for church and school choirs. She developed a love for musical theatre when she was asked to accompany the production Carousel at the age of 17 for a local community theatre in the Midwest. Throughout her adult years, she developed a wide and all-encompassing piano performance background including solo performances, collaborative accompanying, and orchestra and chamber music group performances. She also has played in pit orchestras for multiple colleges, community theatres, and local productions including The Mikado, The Producers, Children of Eden, Chicago, Peter and the Star Catcher, Anything Goes, Cabaret, Annie, Sweeney Todd, School House Rock, You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown and more. Mrs. Taylor-Turner currently serves as an accompanist at YC for the Master Chorale and Chamber Choirs. In addition to her musical career, she obtained a Juris Doctorate from the ASU College of Law in 1999, and owns a law firm in Prescott, Arizona. She resides with her husband, Jim, and her four fur babies, and has one son, Sage.
Ruth Breiling Rehearsal Accompanist Ruth has been a piano accompanist for YC Performing Arts classes and musicals for the past four years. She has worked as a piano accompanist for musicals at local high schools from 2002-2004. Ruth taught private piano lessons for 35 years and continues to play organ and piano for church services. Her husband, Dr. Roy Breiling, was the Instrumental Music Director at YC from 1995 to 2014. Ruth considers it a privilege and a joy to work with the eager and talented students in the YC Performing Arts.
PRODUCTION STAFF Connie Arnold Stage Manager Connie has been involved in community theatre for over 40 years, both on stage and behind the scenes. She holds a Master of Science in Aviation Safety, and is a rabid sports fan. Hello, Dolly! is her first production with YC, and she credits the exceptional production team, along with the cast for making this adventure such a treat. Special appreciation goes to her husband, David Lamey, who never complains about her prolonged absences from home to pursue this crazy passion.
Sally Lunt Properties Master Sally moved to Prescott in 2015 to escape Wisconsin winters. Her on-stage credits include a juggler, a cowboy, and an elf. Her backstage career building props and designing set dressings began about ten years ago when her youngest became involved with local community theatre. Hello, Dolly! will be her fifth show at Yavapai College, and she has worked multiple shows at Suze's Prescott Center for the Arts.