The Brandywiners

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Statements involve “live theatre and music for future generations,” “diverse artists,” “year-round programming” and “a social-cause focus to support the broader arts community,” plus commitments to “all three counties of Delaware and beyond” and “collaboration among arts organizations.”

Those future generations include the Brandywiners themselves. Dianne and Ted Meyermann met in the 1966 production of Kismet, and their daughter, Carrie Naylor, has also become involved. Jamie Fleetwood debuted with the Brandywiners in 1963, and her “favorite memories are of sharing the beautiful Longwood stage with my two wonderful granddaughters.

The history of the Brandywiners is mostly about people, but it also involves animals. Tina Sheing recalls the horse in the 1992 production of Oklahoma! and the dogs that were adopted for the 2014 production of Annie. Sheing has been involved in more than 25 Brandywiners productions since she debuted in 1987, and she’s directing Oliver! this year.

The group already has the Brandywiners Chorale (60 singers presenting 30 concerts a year) and the Brandywiners Notables (a concert choir of 20). Both perform songs from Broadway and beyond.

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