McColl Family Theatre November 17 - December 22, 2023
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TITLE PAGE
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THE 2023-24 SEASON
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SHOW SPONSORS
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FOR THIS PRODUCTION
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BEHIND THE SCENES
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MUSICAL NUMBERS
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CAST
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CREATIVE TEAM
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FOR THIS PRODUCTION
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STAFF & BOARD OF DIRECTORS
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OUR SUPPORTERS
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EDUCATION PROGRAMS
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ENCORE! VOLUNTEER COMMUNITY
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SAVE THE DATE - UPCOMING EVENTS
Links
Photo by John Merrick
FACEBOOK.COM/CTCHARLOTTE INSTAGRAM.COM/CTCHARLOTTENC X.COM/CTCHARLOTTE
(formerly Twitter)
YOUTUBE.COM/CTCHARLOTTE
THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL By Jahnna Beecham & Malcolm Hillgartner Adapted from the book by Barbara Robinson Orchestrations and vocal arrangements by Deborah Wicks La Puma Produced by special arrangement with Broadway Licensing
Photo by John Merrick
Director & Choreographer Ron Chisholm Music Director Charlene Miranda Thomas Scenic Designer Tom Burch* Costume Designer Magda Guichard Sound Designer Jason Romney Lighting Designer David M Fillmore, Jr* * Member United Scenic Artists Local 829
Run time approximately 70 minutes Videotaping, photography and other recording of this production is prohibited. 4
The 2023-24 Season
BALLOONACY Aug 23-31, 2023
NARNIA THE MUSICAL Sept 22 - Oct 22, 2023
TIRED SOULS: THE MONTGOMERY BUS BOYCOTT Oct 7-8, 2023
LIFE DOESN’T FRIGHTEN ME Nov 4-19, 2023
THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL Nov 17 - Dec 22, 2023
SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK LIVE! Jan 13-28, 2024
PINOCCHIO Feb 3-18, 2024
CATCHING THE MOON: THE STORY OF A YOUNG GIRL’S BASEBALL DREAM Mar 9-24, 2024
DJEMBE FIRE! Mar 9, 2024
DANNY, KING OF THE BASEMENT Apr 20-28, 2024
ELEPHANT AND PIGGIE'S "WE ARE IN A PLAY!" Apr 13 - May 5, 2024
PIGS IS PIGS May 29 - June 9, 2024
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The 2023-24 Season Today’s celebration is brought to life, in part, by: Bruce and Anita LaRowe Tammy Stringer & Richard Viola Nichelle & Sasha Weintraub SPX Corporation Lauren and William Voorhees Children’s Theatre of Charlotte is supported, in part, by the Infusion Fund and its generous donors, and the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural & Cultural Resources.
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Next Up
JANUARY 13-28, 2024 I FOR AGES 5+
GET READY TO ROCK AS THE POP CULTURE PHENOMENON HITS THE STAGE AT CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CHARLOTTE.
LEARN MORE
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THE MAKING OF A HOLIDAY HIT... All of the elements of the show from set design to costume design, lighting, props and sound, are all created at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte by a talented team of artists. Together, we bring stories like this one to life through the magic of theatre. 8
SET DESIGN The iconic set design created by Tom Burch in 2016 has brought the story to life over the years.
COSTUME DESIGN Magda Guichard’s original sketches from 2016 set the stage for the look of the show for years to come.
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Joy to the World Photos by John Merrick
Musical Numbers The Perfect Little Town The Horrible Herdmans Countin’ On You Take My Lunch Hey Mrs. Bradley Problem Baskets for the Needy My Mother Said Problem Reprise Maybe Die Herod Die Baskets for the Needy Reprise Best Gift of All On a Night Like This Let There Be Joy The Best Christmas Pageant Ever 10
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Meet the Cast
Kayla Simone Ferguson (Grace Bradley) is excited to return to the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte stage! Previous credits include NARNIA THE MUSICAL, THE INVISIBLE BOY, ALLIE KAZAN AND THE MAGIC MANSION, and DON’T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS! Enjoy the show!!
Tommy Foster (Bob Bradley) has worked for over 30 years acting, directing, and teaching. As an actor he’s appeared in regional theatres up and down the East Coast; nationally in commercials for Nickelodeon, McDonalds, and Food Lion; and internationally on cruise ships. His cabaret work earned him a coveted Bistro Award from Backstage in 2004. In 2013, after 15 years in New York City, he moved back to his home state of North Carolina and has since directed and taught for Carolina Actor’s Studio Theatre, Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, Catawba College, Davidson Community Players, Northwest 12
School of the Arts, RCCC, Old Courthouse Theatre, and Lee Street Theatre. Favorite local acting credits include the title roles in JEKYLL & HYDE and THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL for CPCC Summer Theatre; Miss Trunchbull in ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA THE MUSICAL for Children’s Theatre of Charlotte; Ned in THE NORMAL HEART for Theatre Charlotte; Bruce in FUN HOME, Dan in NEXT TO NORMAL, and Edward Bloom in BIG FISH for Lee Street Theatre. Tommy currently lives in Salisbury with his husband, Wesley; their two sons Parker & Marshall; and their five dogs (Brody, Marlie, Duke, Lucy, & Bingo). He is a high school graduate of UNCSA, has a BFA in Musical Theatre from the University of Michigan, and an MFA in Classical Acting from the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Academy for Classical Acting at George Washington University. tommyfosternyc.com Allison Rhinehardt (Helen Armstrong) is so happy to be back in her old hospital bed once again, reviving her role
Meet the Cast
as Helen Armstrong. Most recently, Allison was seen as Norma Desmond in SUNSET BOULEVARD and as Queen Elizabeth in DIANA THE MUSICAL, both with Queen City Concerts. She also earned an MTA nomination for her role as Mrs. Banks in Davidson Community Players’ MARY POPPINS. Allison is thankful for her family, friends, and the theatre community!
John DeMicco (Reverend Hopkins) is pleased to be returning to Children’s Theatre of Charlotte having just appeared as Mr. Tumnus in NARNIA THE MUSICAL. Recently he appeared as Jonathan in ARSENIC AND OLD LACE at the Waterfront Playhouse in Key West. Charlotte highlights include: Kris Kringle in MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET and Clarence in IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE at Matthews Playhouse; Hercule Poirot in MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS, Amos in CHICAGO and Sir Galahad in SPAMALOT with Davidson Community Players. He has also appeared Off-Broadway, Off-Off Broadway, regionally and on national tours. Favorite roles include Herr Schul-
tz in CABARET and Actor One in A.R. GURNEY’S THE DINING ROOM. Thanks to his wife Carol and daughter for their support. Jennifer Poarch (Luanne / Understudy Helen) is delighted to return to Children’s Theatre of Charlotte for another fantastic season. You may have spotted her as a tap-dancing chimney sweep, various faces in PAGEANT, a cute penguin, a grumpy toad, an ogre and a bear…oh my, a farmer, a librarian, a mom, and a birdseed dispenser! Some favorite regional performance credits include: Alice Murphy (BRIGHT STAR), Natalie/Ed (ALL SHOOK UP), Kala (TARZAN), Mary Poppins (MARY POPPINS), Lilli/Kate (KISS ME KATE), Cassie (A CHORUS LINE), Guinevere (CAMELOT), Mrs. Anna (THE KING AND I), Barbara (SHEAR MADNESS), Shelby (STEEL MAGNOLIAS), and Julie (PIZZA MAN). When Jennifer is not performing, she enjoys directing, choreographing, educating and managing for theaters across the country. Jennifer gives thanks to her family, friends and God for all their love and support. 13
Meet the Cast
Morgan Wakefield (Betty) is THRILLED to be a part of THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL! Morgan has worked with Childrens’s Theatre of Charlotte as a Swing in DON’T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS! THE MUSICAL!, DRAGONS LOVE TACOS, SHREK THE MUSICAL, ANNIE, and THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL. She also originated the role of Eva in ALLIE KAZAN AND THE MAGIC MANSION. Other credits include JULIUS CAESAR (Mark Antony), A CHORUS LINE (Judy), and FIDDLER ON THE ROOF (Hodel). All the glory to God! Judy BrownSteele (Connie) is new to Charlotte, NC where she is excited to be working with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. Selected credits include Great, Great Aunt Rose in ROSIE REVERE, ENGINEER, Mrs. Neal 14
in THE ESCAPE TO FREEDOM, Denise/Roberta in STRING OF PEARLS, and Miss Jones in HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING. She is Audra McDonald’s biggest fan and can’t wait to work with her. . . someday! She enjoys coaching students on scene study, song & monologue prep and is excited for whatever new adventures are next. Sophie Belle Henry (Beth Bradley) is so honored to perform in THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL in the role she understudied last year! She is a junior at HOPE Academy, a Blumenthal Junior Ambassador, and a five-year Conservatory student at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. She fell in love with theatre at age seven and has been performing ever since. You may have seen her most recently as Kim in BYE BYE BIRDIE or Teen Fiona in SHREK THE MUSICAL at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. Sophie would like to thank the cast, crew and directors for making THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER a phenomenal experience! She would also like to give a shoutout
Meet the Cast
to her amazing friends, family, and teachers for always being so supportive and compassionate (Love you all!). Sophie hopes you enjoy the show and the holiday season! Isaiah 26:3.
Luke McCammon (Charlie Bradley) is thrilled to return to Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. His previous roles include a Cruelie in NARNIA THE MUSICAL, and Teddy and Charlie in THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL at the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. He was also the Mad Hatter in SHREK THE MUSICAL, also at the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. He is currently a homeschooled 7th grader. Luke is grateful to all who have guided him on his theater journey. Luke would also like to thank his family and friends for their encouragement and support. Luke Tsurumaki (Teddy) is beyond excited to be making his professional debut at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte! He is 9 years old and a 4th grader at Gaston Day School, where last
year he portrayed Fletcher in FREAKY FRIDAY and Alex the Lion in MADAGASCAR: A MUSICAL ADVENTURE, JR. Luke is a proud member of CTC’s School of Theatre Training and company dancer at Beyond Dance Project. He loves playing drums and electric bass, making movies, and most of all, his little sister, Hannah. Beckett Dumas (Elmer Hopkins /Understudy Charlie) age 13 and an 8th grader at Northwest School of the Arts, is delighted to be returning to Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s Mainstage production of THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL where he appeared in 2022 in the role of Teddy. He was last seen on stage as Willard in FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL. In his spare time Beckett enjoys spending time with friends and family, attending shows, taking theater classes, singing and dancing. Beckett would like to thank his parents, his theater teachers, the creative team and his fellow cast mates for their guidance and support. 15
Meet the Cast
Nora Yesowitch (Alice) is so excited to be returning to the Mainstage at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. You may recognize her as Pepper from last year’s production of ANNIE. Nora’s most recent appearance was in Theatre Charlotte’s THE WIZARD OF OZ. She has also been seen in SCROOGE at Matthews Playhouse and in various roles with JStage Charlotte where her very favorite role was Merryweather the Fairy in SLEEPING BEAUTY. Nora is in the ninth grade at Northwest School of the Arts and enjoys hiking, reading, and spending time with friends. She would like to thank everyone who worked on this show for making it so special.
Kiearra Gary (Ivy) is beyond excited to be making her Children’s Theatre of Charlotte Mainstage debut as Ivy in the BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL! Kiearra is a senior at North Mecklenburg 16
High School in the IB program and plans to head to college next fall to double major in musical theater and theatre education. Although this is Kiearra’s first Mainstage production, she is no stranger to the Children’s Theatre stage as she has been with CTC for 9 years! Some of her credits included: ONCE ON THIS ISLAND (Ti Moune), SPAMALOT (The Lady of The Lake) and most recently in CATS (Munkustrap). In addition to performances, she has been an active member of the SOTT program with this being her 5th and final year in Conservatory in the Pre-Professional Company. Lastly, she would just like to thank the team at Children’s Theatre, her friends and family for always supporting her dream! Merry Christmas everyone! Ryan Campos (Ralph Herdman) is thrilled to be returning to the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte stage in THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER! Ryan is in 11th grade at Northwest School of the Arts where you may have recently seen him in last spring’s musical, CABARET (Bobby). At Children’s Theatre, you
Meet the Cast
may have seen him in last season’s ANNIE (Bert Healey) or in the 2019 production of THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER (Charlie Bradley). He’d like to give special thanks to Ron, Charlene, Steven James, and the whole creative team for once again creating this magical show, and to everyone who has come to experience this incredible story with us!
Allie Joseph (Imogene Herdman) is excited to return for her 5th season of THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL! It has been a dream of hers to play this role since she was the littlest baby angel in the 2016 world premiere production. This year, she will surpass 200 performances of this beautiful show at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. In past years, you may have recognized her as Beth Bradley (2022) and Gladys Herdman(2019). Additional credits include: Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s Mainstage productions of ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA: THE MUSICAL (Matilda) and ALLIE KAZAN AND THE MAGIC MANSION (U/S Allie), as
well as Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte’s FUN HOME (Small Alison), and Southeastern Summer Theatre Institute’s A CHORUS LINE (Diana). She is incredibly grateful to all of the teachers and directors at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte who have been her biggest supporters and mentors, as well as her family (who are very excited that she finally has her driver’s license for this year’s rehearsal process!). Allie is a junior at Northwest School of the Arts, and hopes to pursue musical theatre in college and beyond. @allie.joseph.official Josiah Jackson (Leroy Herdman) is beyond grateful to be back at CTC for his second Mainstage production. Currently, Josiah is a Musical Theater major at Northwest School of the Arts. He is excited to be playing the role of Leroy Herdman in THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER : THE MUSICAL, which is one of his favorite CTC productions. His favorite credits include Bert Healy/ Marc in ANNIE (Children’s Theatre of Charlotte), Men’s Ensem17
Meet the Cast
ble in HELLO DOLLY! (Matthews Playhouse), and Mufasa in THE LION KING JR. (Rea Farms STEAM Academy). Josiah would like to thank his incredible cast mates for working so hard with him to put this show on and his family and friends for all their help.
Andrew Ahdieh (Claude Herdman) is thrilled to be returning to the Mainstage at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte! Andrew is a 10th grader at Northwest School of the Arts, and was most recently seen in productions such as THE PROM at Theatre Charlotte, and CATS, a part of Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s OnStage program. Andrew has been in several Children’s Theatre productions including SHREK THE MUSICAL, PETER PAN, and THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL. Andrew has participated in Children’s Theatre of Charlotte School of Theatre Training for several years, and loves nothing more than performing on stage. Andrew would like to thank his family and his teachers for their support, as well as the cast and creative 18
team who made this production possible! Graham Buckley (Ollie Herdman) at the age of 3, announced he was “born to be on stage!” Today, at 12, he is excited to be a part of THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL, a show he loved when he first saw it at 6 years old. He has previously been seen on Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s Mainstage in ANNIE as Duffy and in Matthews Playhouse’s SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL as Who Ensemble. He has participated in the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s School of Theatre Training which gave him the opportunity to perform in BIG MAGIC and STILL LIFE WITH IRIS through OnStage, and is grateful for the coaching and mentoring he has already received through the program. He has also performed in two seasons of THE NUTCRACKER BALLET in Matthews. Graham is grateful for his Mom, Dad, family, and friends!
Meet the Cast
Jordyn Mae Friedman (Gladys Herdman) is thrilled to back performing with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. Most recently seen in Theatre Charlotte’s WIZARD OF OZ, she has also performed with Rock Hill Theatre, Showtime Theatre Company, Kids of the Arts (KOTA) Productions, Pixie Dust Players and Drama Geek Studios. Last year, she was chosen and performed for Kenan Thompson’s Young Stars Talent Showcase in Charlotte. Jordyn was awarded the South Carolina Strawberry Festival Kids Idol 2021, and was a final nominee for Rock Hill Theatre’s Youth Excellence Award for 2020-2021. She was also nominated for The Marcus Sherman Memorial Scholarship for her role as Louie in CAPTAIN LOUIE JR. at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte in 2021. Jordyn would love to thank Ron, Adam, the entire production staff and cast for all of their support! Jayla Dixon (Ensemble/Understudy Imogene/ Beth) is beyond excited to be a part of THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER:THE
MUSICAL! She is 17 years old, homeschooled, and dual-enrolled at Central Piedmont Community College. This is her first Mainstage production at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, but has performed in the OnStage productions of XANADU THE MUSICAL, ANYTHING GOES THE MUSICAL, and the virtual production of ELLA’S BIG CHANCE: A JAZZ AGE MUSICAL. She is a two-year Conservatory student, currently a part of Acting Company, and has been in summer camps and SOTT classes at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte since 2011. Jayla is so grateful for all of the directors, teachers, and amazing people she’s become close with over the years! Bailey Fischer (Ensemble/Understudy Gladys) is excited to return to Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s Mainstage production of THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL! Her most recent credits include roles in MATILDA, JR with Camp Jump (2023), BYE BYE BIRDIE with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s OnStage program (2023), and THE BEST 19
Meet the Cast CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s Mainstage (2022). Bailey enjoys writing, reading, playing video games, theatre classes/camps, Girl Scouts and spending time with friends and family in her free time! She would like to thank her family for their support, the cast and crew for endless joy, and Ron for trusting her with this amazing opportunity! Trulyn Rhinehardt (Ensemble/Understudy Ivy) is elated to be a part of this BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER cast. Some favorite past productions have been THE NERD, EVITA, LEGALLY BLONDE, MARY POPPINS, THIRTEEN, and MATILDA. Outside of theatre, Trulyn is passionate about dance and loves her studio, Open Door. Trulyn also loves aerial dance and anything that involves being in the air. She would like to thank her family, friends, and pickles.
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Nevaeh Moultrie (Ensemble/Understudy Alice) is extremely excited to be in this year’s annual production of THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUICAL. She was in the OnStage production of STILL LIFE WITH IRIS two years ago. Took a break this past year, but she is ready to get back in the swing of things. She hopes you enjoy the show, and she can’t wait for you all to see what the group has put together this year! David Fulford (Ensemble/Understudy Teddy/Ollie) is a fifth grader from Davidson and is excited to be making his Mainstage debut at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte in THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL. David has been performing since an early age and has appeared in several community and school productions around the Charlotte area. His favorite credits include PETER PAN (Peter Pan), ANNIE JR. (Mr. Warbucks), and FROZEN JR. (Hans). David has been training at Children’s The-
Meet the Cast atre since 2021 and is very grateful for this wonderful opportunity. He would like to thank his family and his teachers for all their support. Carter Thomas (Ensemble/ (Understudy Elmer/Claude) is thrilled to make his Mainstage debut with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte (CTC). He is a 7th grader at Northwest School of the Arts (NWSA) where he is majoring in Band, playing the flute and oboe. Carter’s love of musical theatre began in 2022 where he was cast as “Eric” in MATILDA THE MUSICAL at NWSA. He immediately enrolled in theatre classes through CTC and participated in the OnStage production of SUZETTE WHO SET TO SEA. Carter has also performed with Theatre Charlotte and was part of the Youth Ensemble this summer in the production of WIZARD OF OZ. He is grateful for this opportunity, his family, and the entire cast and crew of this wonderful show!
Michael Meissner (Ensemble/ Understudy Leroy) is ecstatic to be making his Mainstage debut at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte in THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL! He currently attends Northwest School of the Arts as a musical theatre major, as well as CTC’s School of Theatre Training program. Some of Michael’s favorite credits include Ted Scheider in DISASTER!, Mitch Mahoney in THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE, Storyteller and Ensemble in ONCE ON THIS ISLAND, and various roles in MATILDA. Michael would like to give a huge thanks to everyone involved in THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL, and especially those who presented him this wonderful opportunity. Joey Rising (Ensemble/Understudy Ralph) is thrilled to be making his Mainstage debut at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. 21
Meet the Cast
Joey is a 9th grader at Northwest School of the Arts studying Musical Theatre. Some of Joey’s past credits include Doctor/Escapologist in MATILDA and Agwe in ONCE ON THIS ISLAND, JR. (Northwest School of the Arts) and Wickersham #1 in SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL and Rainbow Fish in RAINBOW FISH THE MUSICAL (Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts). Joey enjoys listening to his favorite artists, playing guitar, and writing his own music when he’s not performing in musicals. Joey is currently part of the Musical Theatre Company at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte and is excited and grateful for this opportunity to work with the phenomenal creative team, cast, and crew at BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL.
Abigail Holloway (Ensemble) is thrilled to be part of this year’s production of THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL at the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. At the age of 9, this marks her second performance, 22
and she’s eager to shine on stage. Abigail’s passions include reading, singing, and dancing, and she dedicates this performance to her Godsister Carrington Richardson, whom she holds dearly in her heart, even though she’s in heaven. Abigail extends her heartfelt gratitude to her family and friends for their unwavering love and support, and she also expresses her appreciation to the talented cast and crew for making this experience truly fantastic.
Creative Team
Ron Chisholm (Director & Choreographer) has directed and/or choreographed over 375 shows around the country. Shows at CTC over the past 3 decades include: THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER (5 times), SCROOGE (5 times), NARNIA THE MUSICAL, ALADDIN, GOOD NIGHT MOON, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD (National Youth Theatre Award), PETER PAN, MARY POPPINS, PETE THE CAT, PINKALICIOUS among many others. Ron has performed in every type of entertainment medium: Broadway, Radio City Music Hall, cruise ships, theme parks, music videos, TV, industrial shows and movies. Broadway: assistant choreographer and performed in “Into the Light” with Dean Jones. Tours: assistant choreographer and Young Vincent in FOLLIES starring Juliet Prowse and John Cullum, HIGH BUTTON SHOES with Gavin MacLeod. TV Specials: with Carol Burnett, Dolly Parton, Shirley MacLaine, Ben Vereen and The Pointer Sisters. Ron has directed, choreographed and/or produced shows for: CPCC Theatre , CP Summer Theatre, Charlotte Rep, Opera Carolina, Theatre Charlotte, North Carolina Shake-
speare, Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma, Opera House Theatre Company, Spirit Square and other companies in the Region. Ron and wife Angie recently moved to Nashville, TN to be closer to grandchildren Charlotte and Beau and family. Charlene Miranda Thomas (Music Director) is blessed and honored to return to Children’s Theatre once again as Music Director for THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL. Prior to this production, she has been the Music Director at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte for SHREK THE MUSICAL, THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL (2018 and 2019), BOB MARLEY’S THREE LITTLE BIRDS, MADAGASCAR: A MUSICAL ADVENTURE, and THE TRUE STORY OF THE THREE LITTLE PIGS. Her recent credits include Music Director for the premiere of THE LIGHTNING THIEF at Community School of Davidson. She was also the Music Director for VIOLET THE MUSICAL produced by Common Thread Theatre Collective, a collaboration between Davidson College and North Carolina A&T University. “It is such a thrill to be a part of this production again. I love this show and working with this wonderfully talented cast! I love this story because it is a pow23
Creative Team
erful reminder of the importance of community, the power of love, and how empathy strengthens the human spirit.” Charlene is an arts educator and advocate for arts education. She has worked with and continues to work with various organizations such as Children’s Theatre School of Theatre Training, Theatre Gap Initiative, and Mooresville Children’s Theatre, just to name a few. She also teaches private lessons in voice and piano. She is passionate about inspiring exceptionally talented young artists from all walks of life to develop their artistic gifts and pursue careers in the arts. When Charlene is not teaching or in the “pit” you can find her playing the keys and singing some funky tunes with her band – MarvelUs. Charlene would like give a special shout out and thanks to her family and MarvelUs band members for their love and support. Tom Burch (Scenic Designer) previous CTC scenic designs include ALLIE KAZAN AND THE MAGIC MANSION, the perennial THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL, DISNEY AND CAMERON MACKINTOSH’S MARY POPPINS, BOB MARLEY’S THREE LITTLE BIRDS, DRAGONS LOVE TACOS, BUD NOT BUDDY, and several others. He also adapted and created puppets 24
for a touring production of THE DOT. Other shows in the region include WITCH and A DOLL’S HOUSE PART 2 with Charlotte Conservatory Theatre, THE WEIR with Burning Coal (Raleigh) , NO CHILD... with Cape Fear Regional Theatre) and THE LEGEND OF GEORGIA MCBRIDE for Warehouse Theatre (Greenville, SC). Other children’s theatre includes shows at Stage One (Louisville, KY), Childsplay (AZ), Chicago Theatre for Young Audiences, Chicago Children’s Theatre and Ya Tong Theatre (Taiwan). Regional credits include shows at The Goodman, Chicago Shakespeare, Pasadena Playhouse, American Repertory Theatre, Cleveland Play House, Berkeley Rep, Actors Theatre of Louisville and several others. NYC credits include the off-Broadway production of MISTAKES WERE MADE (Barrow Street), THE HYPOCRITES’ PIRATES OF PENZANCE (NYU Skirball), and JOURNEY TO OZ (Symphony Space - which originated at CTC!) He’s been nominated 5 times for Chicago’s Jeff Awards (1 win), and has taught at University of Chicago, Ithaca College, and now at UNC Charlotte. International work has included shows in England, Scotland, Taiwan and, this last
Creative Team
summer, Italy! Upcoming projects include PINTER’S MOONLIGHT (Burning Coal), and ALLIE KAZAN AND THE MAGIC MANSION (Orlando Family Stage).
Magda Guichard (Costume Designer) has been working with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte for ten years, designing costumes and puppets for such shows as NARNIA THE MUSICAL, THE VELVETEEN RABBIT, THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL, MADAGASCAR: A MUSICAL ADVENTURE, ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA THE MUSICAL, and THE GHOST OF SPLINTER COVE, as well as the designing and creating of the Dragons in both THE RELUCTANT DRAGON and SHREK THE MUSICAL. Magda earned her Master of Fine Arts from Savannah College of Art and Design in production design with a costume design focus. Magda is thrilled to call Children’s Theatre of Charlotte home and thanks her friends and, above all, her parents for their love and supporting her artistic journey. Jason Romney (Sound Designer ) is grateful for the opportunity to collaborate once again with the team at Children’s Theatre
of Charlotte. A few of his favorite projects at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte include ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA THE MUSICAL, CAT IN THE HAT, THE SECRET GARDEN, and THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL. He has also designed sound for productions at Triad Stage, Alliance Theatre, Piedmont Opera, Florida Studio Theatre, Imagination Stage, No Rules Theatre, Hot Summer Nights at the Kennedy, Playmakers Repertory, Weston Playhouse, Lyric Repertory Company, Ravinia Festival, Utah Festival Opera, Unicorn Pillow Theatre, Elon University, and others. He is a Professor of Sound Design at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts in Winston-Salem North Carolina. He is a proud member of the Theatrical Sound Designers and Composers Association. David M Fillmore, Jr (Lighting Designer) is Professor of Lighting Design at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Designing mostly for dance and theatre, Fillmore’s regional design credits include American Stage (FL), Tuacahn Outdoor Amphitheatre (UT), North Carolina Museum of Art, The Tennessee Repertory Theatre (TN), Cartage Theatre (NC), Imagination Stage (MD/Washington), The Straw Hat Players (MN), and The Hudson 25
Creative Team
Theatre Works (NJ/New York). Highlights include the world premieres of MY WAY (2000), THE CHRISTMAS DOLL (2007), SURVIVING THE APPLEWHITE’S (2008), THE DRAMA CLUB (2009), 101 DALMATIANS (2014/tour), ELLA’S BIG CHANCE: A JAZZ AGE MUSICAL (2015), THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL (2016-19), AN HOMAGE TO ANCIENT EGYPT (2021), ALPHONSE MUCHA: ART NOUVEAU VISIONARY (2021), and the international debuts of THE LARAMIE PROJECT (2006), in Tours, France and Lullaby – THE STORIES WE TELL (2018), in Pietrasanta, Italy. The first show with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte was MAGICIAN’S NEPHEW (2006) and a few of David’s other favorite shows include DRAGONS LOVE TACOS, THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE, PETER PAN, BEAUTY & THE BEAST, SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL, THE WIZARD OF OZ, THE RELUCTANT DRAGON, TALES OF EDGAR ALLAN POE, SCROOGE!, ALADDIN, and TREASURE ISLAND. His kids, currently 8, 12, and 16, all started enjoying CTC productions at 3 months old and are excited to be seeing theatre in person again. David is a member of the United Scenic Artists local 829. He holds an M.F.A. in Scenic and Lighting Design from Northwestern University, and a B.A. in Theatre from The Uni26
versity of Minnesota, Moorhead. Maura Grout (Assistant Choreographer) is a passionate performer, educator, and choreographer currently in pursuit of a BFA in Dance with a focus in choreography and performance. You may have seen Maura on stage last holiday season when she played the role of Imogene Herdman in CTC’s 2022 production of THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL. It has been exciting for her to take on a new role in bringing this classic story to life! Since the age of four, Maura has been training in nearly every genre of dance, taking on her first role as a choreographer at the age of thirteen. Since then, Maura has taught and/ or choreographed at Matthews Community Center, Dance Fusion of Harrisburg, The Lotus Project, and Rise & Shine Players, as well as offering private coaching to advanced dancers. In 2022, Maura received the award of “Best Choreography” from Inspire National Dance Competition for one of her original works. In addition to working on this show, she will also serve as Assistant Choreographer for ELEPHANT & PIGGIE’S “WE ARE IN A PLAY!” here at CTC next spring.
Creative Team Maura is thrilled to have been given the opportunity to step into these new positions at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte.
Photo by John Merrick
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CREATIVE TEAM Director & Choreographer - Ron Chisholm Music Director - Charlene Miranda Thomas Scenic Designer - Tom Burch Costume Designer - Magda Guichard Sound Designer - Jason Romney Lighting Designer - David M Fillmore, Jr FOR THIS PRODUCTION Stage Manager - Steven James Assistant Stage Manager - Noah Tepper Assistant Choreographer - Martha Grout Deck Chief - Shane Burgett Run Crew - Keith Johns, Landon Peeler, Melissa Mendez Wardrobe Supervisor - Loren Moody Wardrobe Crew - Alyssa Whiting, Angeli Novio Stitcher - Alyssa Whiting Props Assistant - Felix Thompson Crafts - Katy Sigmon Wig Stylist - Valentine Barneycastle Carpenters - Mandy Peeler, Connor Runde Electricians- Amber Bidwell, Maddi Penn, Landon Peeler, Josh Lucero, Sidney Bing Lightboard Op - Zachary Helm Sound Mixer - Maddi Penn Backstage Audio Technician (A2) Sidney Bing Spotlight Ops - Sage Espinosa, Amber Bidwell Scenic Artist - Tim Parati MUSICIANS John Hogan - Drums Harley - Bass Aaron Carlisle - Guitar Jack Murray - Woodwinds Charlene Miranda Thomas - Keyboards 28
CAST Kayla Simone Ferguson.....Grace Bradley Tommy Foster..........................Bob Bradley Sophie Belle Henry.................Beth Bradley Luke McCammon............ Charlie Bradley Morgan Wakefield..............................Betty Jennifer Poarch..............................Luanne Judy Brown-Steele..........................Connie John DeMicco..............Reverend Hopkins Allison Rhinehardt...........Helen Armstrong Kiearra Gary............................................Ivy Luke Tsurumaki..................................Teddy Nora Yesowitch..............Alice Wendleken Allie Joseph................Imogene Herdman Ryan Campos..................Ralph Herdman Josiah Jackson.................Leroy Herdman Andrew Ahdieh............Claude Herdman Graham Buckley................Ollie Herdman Jordyn Friedman...........Gladys Herdman Ensemble.........Jayla Dixon, Bailey Fischer, Truly Rhinehardt, Nevaeh Moultrie, David Fulford, Carter Thomas, Michael Meissner, Joey Rising, Abigail Holloway Swing.......................................Maura Grout Understudies....................Beckett Dumas (Charlie), Jayla Dixon (Imogene/Beth), Bailey Fischer (Gladys), Trulyn Rhinehardt (Ivy), Nevaeh Moultrie (Alice), David Fulford (Teddy/Ollie), Carter Thomas (Elmer/Claude), Michael Meissner (Leroy), Joey Rising (Ralph)
Staff & Board of Directors CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CHARLOTTE
LEADERSHIP Artistic Director - Adam Burke
School Group Sales & Performance Coordinator - Chris Stonnell
Managing Director - Nao Tsurumaki
IT Manager - Claire Whitworth-Helm
Administration
Marketing Assistant - Aaron Bunzey
Human Resources Manager - Carolyn Lugo-Allred Business Manager - Alex Doxey Senior Accountant - Crystal Johnson ImaginOn Partnership Coordinator - Maryann O’Keeffe
Audience Service Coordinator - Louise Lawson
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Mitchell Kelling - Chair Sallie Beason - Chair-Elect
ImaginOn Administrative Support - Casey Kaufmann
Stephanie Isham - Treasurer
Artistic & Production
Cynthia Banks
Director of Production - Steven Levine Artistic & Community Relations Fellow - Alicia Tafoya Costume Shop Manager - Anna Klinger Resident Designer & Crafts Specialist - Magda Guichard Cutter/Draper - Emily Heilig Technical Director - Andrew Gibbon Resident Stage Manager - Steven James Resident Sound Designer/AV Supervisor - Tyler Knowles Charge Scenic Artist - Tim Parati Master Carpenter - John Slechta Deck Chief/House Carpenter - Shane Burgett Properties Manager - Cassie Ward Properties Assistant - Felix Thompson Resident Lighting Designer/Master Electrician - Robyn Warfield Assistant Electrician - Amber Bidwell Education Director of Education - EG Engle Camps & Community Programs Manager - Mary Katherine Smith Education Operations & Administrative Manager - Cat Koski Resident Teaching Artists - Karen Steele & Breana Venablé Education Assistant - Katie Kinser Development Director of Development – Emily J. Chuma
Maddie Myers - Secretary Veronica Bell Mary Alice Boyd Mike Burgess Stephanie Couch Caryn Craige Charlitta Hatch Leigh Hickman Ben Hume Tim James Rebecca Lindahl Brian Litwak Mitzi Lynch Jennifer Madara Scott Manning Salem McMullan Lisa Miller Rosemary Morgan Mallory Navin Michael Tarwater, Jr. Kristin Tokić Rosa Vega-Vazquez Nichelle Weintraub Judith Whelan April Whitlock
Associate Director of Development - Scott Tynes-Miller Special Events & Individual Giving Manager - Mattie Kearse
Honorary Lifetime Members
Advisory Board
Robin Branstrom
Robin Branstrom
Carla DuPuy
Marketing and Communications
Tom Eiselt
Peter Flur
Jami Farris
Director of Marketing & Communications - Cindy Taylor
Cynthia Lank
Peter Flur
Associate Director of Marketing - Rob Odum
Linda Lockman-Brooks
Gina Lawrence
Development Coordinator - Jean Edwards Touring Coordinator, Front & Center Series - Madia Medico
Customer Experience Manager - Ashley Hughes PR & Social Media Mananger – Alex Aguilar
ENCORE! President
Touring Performance Coordinator - Margot Parrott
Sandy Vlahos
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Our Supporters EXECUTIVE PRODUCING PARTNERS ($50,000 and more)
LEADING ROLE PARTNER ($1,000 to $2,999)
Bank of America North Carolina Arts Council PNC Foundation The Shubert Foundation The Infusion Fund and its generous donors
Blue Cross Blue Shield Dickens-Mitchener & Associates
PRODUCING PARTNERS ($25,000 to $49,999) C.D. Spangler Foundation, Inc. First Horizon National Endowment for the Arts DIRECTING PARTNERS ($10,000 to $24,999) Autism Strong Foundation Clear Blue Insurance Group Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated Continental Tire the Americas, LLC. Cornwell Foundation Paige Johnston Thomas Giving Tree SPX Corporation Triad Foundation STANDING OVATION PARTNERS ($5,000 to $9,999) Carolina Panthers The Dickson Foundation, Inc. LendingTree Offit Kurman Parker Poe Publix Super Markets Charities South Arts Wells Fargo CENTER STAGE PARTNERS ($3,000 to $4,999) The Daniel, Edward, Cora & Strickland Foundation Deloitte & Touche LLP Gerrard Builders QRCA Social Venture Partners
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Our Supporters cont’d INDIVIDUAL AND FAMILY DONORS
We recognize and thank our generous donors who gave as of November 6, 2023. Our annual donors are recognized at the most current giving level. LEADING PLAYERS SOCIETY ($10,000 - $24,999) Dorlisa & Peter Flur Mitchell Kelling Tammy Stringer & Richard Viola ($5,000 - $9,999) Omid & Julie Ahdieh Dr. Daniel Donner Travis & Lise Hain The Hensley Family David Holland Bruce & Anita LaRowe Brian Litwak Jennifer & Eric Madara Ann & Scott Manning Brian & Laura Murdock Jennifer & Jack Ross April & Thomas Whitlock ($3,000 - $4,999) Herb & Gina Clegg Rob & Caryn Craige Stephanie Couch John & Nancy Dickson Ben & Christy Hume LaKeisha & William Jefferson Pat Burgess & Joan Martin Heather & Scott McAllister Ken & Lisa Miller Rosemary Morgan & Fielding Huseth Maddie & Brian Myers Stacia & Charlie Neugent Stephen & Stephanie Sorenson Erik & Amelia Peterson Kristin Tokic Rosa Maria Vega Sandy & Greg Vlahos Lauren & William Voorhees Nichelle & Sasha Weintraub Judith & Matthew Whelan
($1,000 - $2,999) Stephen & Carolyn Allred Mr. & Mrs. Richard R. Babcock Sallie & Gary Beason Veronica Bell Robin & Bill Branstrom Susan & Richard Buckley Craig & Mary Bunzey Mike & Katie Burgess Julie & Stoke Caldwell Zoe & Lewis Chandry Spencer Clair & Chris Loyd Amy & Alfred Dawson Tom & Julie Eiselt Bryan & Jami Farris Beth & Gaston Gage Mr. & Mrs. Greg Gonzalez Watts & Carol Hamrick Brad & Karen Harris Scott & Claire Helm Anne Henderson* Lesley Herrera Leigh Hickman Ryan & Danielle Hutcheson Tonya Jesso Laurie Johnston* Ashley & Matthew Joseph Jeff & Deborah Long, In Honor of Miss Penelope Long Bruce & Michelle Long Salem & Sean McMullan Gary Monie Mallory Navin & Joe Shreve Anna & Tom Nelson John & Suzy Nurkin Linda Reynolds Ed & Tari Schutzman Janet & Joshua Smith Michael Tarwater Patrick & Elizabeth Vaughn Laura & Brian Walger Katie & Jason Weeks
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Our Supporters cont’d SUPPORTING PLAYERS SOCIETY ($500 - $999) Dora Abraham Cynthia Banks Sylvia Bartee The Staub Family Marian Clark Veruska & Julio Colmenares Rachel & Michael Coyne Dallas & Kathy Craven Ina DeRochi Bryan & Jamie Gerrard John & Mara Gose Sally & Drew Harriss Soraja Helac Mr. Frank Hruby & Mrs. Tatyana Rector Kate Land Cynthia & Dave Lank Catherine LeCompte Louis Leone Craig & Mitzi Lynch Michele & Steve Mangan Seah & Robert McCammon Jennie McGuire Megan McKeever Renee Miller Elizabeth Murphy Jerry & Cookie Parnell Christian & Denise Pineno Allison & Thad Reece Benjamin & Rebecca Schultz Kindra Shah Cindy & Rob Taylor Carrie & J.T. Teixeira Robert & Leslie Tesch Brandon Williams *Indicates those who support the Paige Johnston Thomas Directing Assistantship.
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Our Supporters cont’d Children’s Theatre of Charlotte receives support from the Infusion Fund, a partnership between the City of Charlotte, Foundation for The Carolinas and generous donors to support the arts and cultural sector. Contributors to the fund include:
Multimillion Dollar Commitment City of Charlotte $1.5 million and above Bank of America C.D. Spangler Foundation / National Gypsum Company John S. and James L. Knight Foundation Trane Technologies $600,000 - $1 million Albemarle Foundation Atrium Health Barings Duke Energy Honeywell JELD-WEN, Inc. LendingTree Foundation Lowe’s Companies, Inc. Novant Health Red Ventures Truist
Up to $300,000
Fifth Third Bank Foundation For The Carolinas Deidre and Clay Grubb Leslie and Michael Marsicano Jane and Hugh McColl Nucor Corporation PNC Bank Premier, Inc. Jane and Nelson Schwab
$300,000-$600,000 Ally Financial The Centene Charitable Foundation Childress Klein Properties Coca-Cola Consolidated Deloitte EY The Gambrell Foundation Moore & Van Allen PwC Robinson, Bradshaw & Hinson, P.A. Rodgers Builders Wells Fargo 33
Classes and Camps
AWARD-WINNING EDUCATION PROGRAMS Children’s Theatre of Charlotte offers a wide variety of classes and camps for your family. Through our education programs, your child will build confidence, develop speaking, leadership and problemsolving skills, appreciate collaborating as a team member and value the feeling of commitment and accomplishment. Creative Drama (Ages 2 through 9) School of Theatre Training (4th through 12th Grade) Dance Classes (5th through 12th Grade) Supplemental Training (4th to 12th Grade)
LEARN MORE
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ENCORE! Our Volunteer Community Be a part of the wonder. Volunteers help in many areas across the Theatre from Production to Education to Development to Outreach.
JOIN US
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Save the Date
Exciting events at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte THE WINTER WONDERLAND SHOP Thurs, Nov 30 - Sat, Dec 2, 2023
Spread cheer as children shop for pre-wrapped gifts at low-cost to give to their loved ones. This is a free event open to the public.
SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK LIVE! ADULT NIGHT Sat, Jan 13, 2024
Grab your (adult) friends and get ready to rock! Join us for lite bites and drinks followed by an evening performance of the hit musical. This is a ticketed event.
CELEBRATE! WITH YOUR VALENTINE Sat, Feb 10, 2024
Join us for a fun night out at ImaginOn as we come together during our annual fundraiser. This is a ticketed event.
POETRY OUT LOUD Sat, Feb 24, 2024
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As the NC partner, we’re proud to host high school students for this statewide recitation contest. This is a free event open to the public.
Subscribe and Save 20%
A scene from Pigs is Pigs
ORDER ONLINE ctcharlotte.org NEED HELP? CONTACT THE BOX OFFICE. boxoffice@ctcharlotte.org I 704-973-2828 (Mon-Fri, 12-5 PM)
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Charlotte Latin’s Middle School Spring 2023 production of Disney’s Newsies, Jr. included a cast and crew of more than 50 students.
Charlotte Latin School is an independent, non-sectarian, coeducational, college-preparatory day school for students in Kindergarten through Grade 12.
9502 Providence Road Charlotte, NC 28277
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TICKETS ON SALE NOW! WWW.CHARLOTTEYOUTHBALLET.ORG DECEMBER 1ST, 2ND, & 3RD 2023