The Children's Theatre of Cincinnati - Rudolph

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TCT MAINSTAGE PRODUCTION OF

Music & Lyrics by Johnny Marks

Script Adaptation by Robert Penola

Arrangements by Timothy Splain

Orchestrations by William C. White

Based on the animated television special “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” adapted from the story by Robert L. May and the song by Johnny Marks. Developed by Character Arts Creations, LLC

Directed/Scenic Design by Nate Bertone

Choreographed by Diane Lala

Director of Production Danielle Lobello Costume Design Jeff Shearer

Sound Production Bill Fuss & Don Moore

Wig Master Candance Leyland

Technical Direction Maggie Foley & Benjamin Adams

Production Stage Manager Jadi Davis

Music Director Mark Femia

Lighting Design Matthew Benjamin

Properties Master Ellie Fangman

Assistant Stage Manager Abby Sauer

Producing Artistic Director Roderick Justice Managing Director and CEO Kim Kern

Flying by Foy

The videotaping or other video or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer JR. Is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com

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A Note From the Director

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, friends! It’s the most wonderful time of year––isn’t it? the year they almost canceled Christmas. you, your families and friends today. Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer

love

Happy Holidays! Nate Bertone

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PO P Q U i Z

How much do you know about Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer JR., produced by The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati?

1. Who plays the snowman in the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer animated TV special?

A. Sammy Davis Jr. B. Louis Armstrong C. Burl Ives D. Dick Van Dyke

2. Rudolph has been produced ___ times at TCT.

A. 2 B. 3 C. 4 D. 1

3. What job does Hermey the Elf want?

A. Actor B. Pilot C. D. Dentist

4. What year did the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer animated TV special premiere?

A. 1964 B. 1959 C. 1972 D. 1968

5. Who first sang the song “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”?

A. Burl Ives

B. Frank Sinatra C. Gene Autry

D. Dean Martin

6. Where was the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer animated TV special filmed?

A. Japan B. Canada C. USA D. Mexico

7. Why was the character Rudolph originally created?

A. B. Animated movie C. Staged musical D. Advertising campaign

8. Who rules the Island of Misfit Toys? A. B. C. King Moonracer D. Santa

9. Two original puppets from the animated movie sold for how much at auction?

A. $150,000 B. $79,000 C. $23,000 D. $368,000

10. How tall is the Santa puppet used in the original film?

A. 11” B. 8” C. 4” D. 6”

RUDOLPH

CAST

CHRISTIAN ARIAS

CHRIS LOGAN CARTER

MACKENZIE COOK

BRINLEY CULVER ISSIAH CURRENT

CELIA D’ASCENZO

MARLO D’ASCENZO

STELLA D’ASCENZO

EDRICO EVANS-PRITCHETT

DORION FEARS

BENJAMIN ABES-FELDMAN

DOUGLAS FRIES

TOMMI HARSCH GRIFFIN HATFIELD HENRY HOWLAND

KASEY

DAVID

RADTKE

CAROLINE RAKESTRAW

ALEX TALBOT KAI VADIVELU KAVAN VADIVELU KEYA VADIVELU

CHRISTIAN ARIAS (Ensemble)

Christian is ecstatic to be performing with TCT again! He is from NKY and is a teaching artist and assistant dance teacher at Expressions Dance Theatre. He also studies with his wonderful Vocal Coach Catherine Keen. Christian has performed with the Kentucky Symphony Orchestra as a lead vocalist and has worked all around Ohio and Kentucky. Favorite credits include: Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical JR. (Rudalpho/ Escapologist/U.S. Mr. Wormwood), Disney’s Newsies (Finch), Spring Awakening (Hanschen), and On The Town (Ozzie). Enjoy!

CHRIS LOGAN CARTER (Sam)

Chris has been working as an actor in Cincinnati for eight years. Most notable performances include The SpongeBob Musical (SpongeBob SquarePants), as well as Madagascar: A Musical Adventure (King Julien) and Bah Humbug! A One-Man Christmas Carol with The Children’s Theatre

of Cincinnati. After two years as a carpenter’s apprentice, he has since begun working with set construction, prop design, playwriting, and directing. Chris is currently an Arts Integration Specialist with TCT.

MACKENZIE COOK (Ensemble)

Mackenzie Cook is ecstatic to be in Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer JR. Some of her favorite credits include Legally Blonde the Musical JR. (Paulette), Heathers: High School Edition (Martha Dunnstock), Disney’s Aladdin JR. (Ensemble), and Chicago: High School Edition (Annie). Mackenzie is extremely grateful for all of her family and friends, without whom she wouldn’t dream of being here (Hi mom!). She would also like to give a shoutout to her Papa for starting her love for acting.

BRINLEY CULVER (Ensemble)

Brinley is thrilled to return to the MainStage this season. She most recently appeared in TCT’s Elf the Musical JR. (Elf ensemble) and

Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical JR. (Amanda Thripp). Her other favorite roles include: Disney’s High School Musical JR. (Sharpay), Annie JR. (Annie), Seussical (JoJo), and Disney’s The Little Mermaid (Flounder). Brinley has trained for the past six years with TCT’s STAR NKU Intensive. She is a sophomore at Lakota East High School. Offstage, she likes to tap dance and play piano.

ISSIAH CURRENT (Boss Elf)

After his MainStage debut as Bruce in TCT’s Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical JR., Issiah is grateful to be welcomed back into the 2022–2023 season! He lives to entertain with his signature style of overacting and hopes viewers will get a laugh out of his performance. He thanks his family, as well as the many teachers who have helped him hone his craft.

CELIA D’ASCENZO (Ensemble)

Celia is overjoyed to be bringing stories to

life with TCT. Last year, she lived her dream playing Matilda in Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical JR. She is an avid singer, dancer, actress, tumbler, and storyteller. Her favorite TCT credits include Elf the Musical JR. (Ensemble), Annie JR. (Molly), and The Velveteen Rabbit (Robot). Other credits include Awaited, Once Upon a Mattress JR. (Lady Larkin), Pirates Past Noon (Jack/Jane), and Disney’s Cinderella KIDS (Fairy Godmother.) Celia loves adventures and spending time laughing with her sisters and friends.

MARLO D’ASCENZO (Clarice)

Marlo is thrilled to be part of this show! She is currently a freshman Musical Theatre student at NKU. Some of her favorite TCT MainStage roles include Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical JR. (Erica), Annie JR. (Kate), Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR. (Flounder), and Disney’s Descendants: The Musical. Other favorite roles: Heathers: The Musical (Heather McNamara), Awaited (soloist), and The SpongeBob Musical

THE RED-NOSED REINDEER JR. CAST

(SpongeBob). Marlo also loves reading, playing piano, and teaching.

STELLA D’ASCENZO

(Ensemble)

Stella is delighted to be back in her happy place telling stories with TCT. As a 10-yearold homeschooled student, Stella has a passion for storytelling, singing, acting, and dancing. Stella’s previous credits include Elf the Musical JR. (Ensemble), Awaited, Once Upon a Mattress JR. (Minstrel), Pirates Past Noon (Annie), and Disney’s Cinderella KIDS (Gus.) Stella loves spending the month of July enrolled in TCT’s STAR Program. She also loves to tumble, play soccer, and spend time with her friends and sisters.

EDRICO EVANS-PRITCHETT

(Ensemble)

Edrico is an alum of SCPA. He has had many opportunities as a young artist to embrace his passion. He’s grateful to be a part of Lachey Arts under the leadership of Drew and Lea Lachey. Edrico currently travels and

sings with National Gospel Recording Artist Ricky Dillard & New G. Edrico acknowledges Cincinnati Black Theatre Company as his foundation and is honored to serve as the Youth Director. He is very excited to return to the stage for TCT’s production of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer JR.!

DORION FEARS

(Donner)

Dorion Fears is a native of Cincinnati. He attended and graduated from The School for Creative and Performing Arts in 1997, where he majored in vocal music and musical theater. After he graduated, he joined the United States Navy. Now after 20 years, Dorion has returned home and has begun sharing his talent with all those who are willing to have him on their stage.

BENJAMIN ABES-FELDMAN

(Ensemble)

Benjamin is a 6th grader at Cincinnati Country Day School and is thrilled to make his TCT debut in Rudolph the Red-Nosed

Reindeer JR. . Prior stage roles have been with the Cincinnati Ballet where he has performed in Sleeping Beauty (King’s Paige), Wizard of Oz (Wizard’s Apprentice, Little Guard), Snow White (Dwarf), and Bold Moves-Our Story (Boy); with The School for Creative and Performing Arts: The Nutcracker (Spanish doll); and with TCT: he has performed in Disney’s Moana JR. (Chorus), Winnie the Pooh JR. (Pooh), and STAR Camp.

DOUGLAS FRIES

(King Moonracer, Bumble, Ensemble)

Douglas Fries was last seen in TCT’s Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical JR. (Mr. Wormwood) and is thrilled to return for the 2022–2023 MainStage Season. As a performer for young audiences, his work countries, and three continents. A former member of the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s Resident Ensemble, Douglas also models for Heyman Talent, and coordinates communications for Education

and Engagement at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. Special thanks to V. www.DouglasFries.com

TOMMI

HARSCH

(Mrs. Donner, Ensemble)

Tommi Harsch is absolutely elated to be a part of her third production with TCT! Previously seen on the Taft stage as Lily St. Regis in Annie JR. and as Miss Honey in Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical JR., Tommi has performed for audiences far and wide, on land and sea. After earning her B.F.A. in Musical Theatre from Wright State University, she went on to work for Cedar Fair Entertainment, Dublin Worldwide Productions, and Royal Caribbean International. Tommi now sings with several bands around the Cincy area, as well as spending her days teaching at the brandnew Reading Community Arts Center. Follow along with her on social media, @tommileasings, or on her website: tommilea.com. Much love to the FamJam. Enjoy the show!

RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER JR. CAST

GRIFFIN HATFIELD (Ensemble)

Elf the Musical JR. Les Misérables The Man Who Came to Dinner

HENRY HOWLAND (Coach, Comet) Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer JR. Singin’ In the Rain Disney’s Newsies

Cinderella Cornelia Street

KASEY JOHANSEN (Ensemble)

The Phantom of the Opera Cinderella The Producers Chicago Working: The Musical

ETHAN KUCHTA (Yukon Cornelius, Ensemble)

Design and Simulation major at the University of Cincinnati. Previous credits include Disney’s Newsies (Race) with Cincinnati Landmark productions and Annie JR. (Ensemble) with The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati. He is extremely thankful for the opportunity to work with the amazing team at TCT and thrilled to be with such an incredible cast.

JT LANGLAS (Ensemble)

JT is so excited to be making his TCT debut in Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer JR. with such an incredible cast and crew! He recently made his professional debut at Parallel 45 Theatre in Cabaret (Bobby, u/s The Emcee). Favorite productions include In the Heights (Benny) and A Chorus Line (Richie Walters). JT is currently pursuing a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. He’d like to thank his family, friends, and everyone who supported this spectacular production! Instagram @jtlanglas

BRANDI LA’SHERRILL

(Mrs. Claus)

Brandi La’Sherrill proudly serves as the Company Manager and Resident Artist at The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati.

on TCT MainStage, you can catch her on tour January-May 2023 in the one-person storytelling experience, Shirley Chisholm: The Chisholm Trail

ELLI MADDOCK (Ensemble)

Elli is ecstatic to be back at the Taft Theatre performing with TCT. She previously appeared on the Taft stage in TCT’s Elf the Musical JR. (Elf #4). Some of Elli’s favorite roles include Incident at our Lady of Perpetual Help (Becky O’Shea) with Playhouse in the Park, Disney’s Descendents: The Musical (Mal), Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical (Matilda) and Disney’s High School Musical JR. (Gabriella). When Elli is not on the stage she enjoys making art or hanging out with her cat.

DAVID RADTKE Santa Claus

David Radtke is thrilled to be making his TCT debut. Some of David’s favorite performances include Mamma Mia (Bill), All Shook Up (Jim), Gilligan’s Island, The Musical (Skipper), Putting it Together (Man 3), and Pippin (King Charlemagne). Off stage, Dave has directed Legally Blonde, Sweeney Todd, and The Addams Family and choreographed Rent, Shout, and Les Misérables. Dave would like to give a shout out to his better half, Robin, for putting up with his antics for the last 28 years.

CAROLINE RAKESTRAW (Ensemble)

Caroline Rakestraw is a recent graduate of Northern Kentucky University with a degree in Theatre. Her favorite credits there are The Mystery Of Edwin Drood (Ensemble/ Succubae), Edges (Woman #1), and Godspell (Celisse). Other recent credits include Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical JR. (Acrobat/ Big Kid) and Disney’s The Jungle Book

KIDS (Jungle Dancer/Puppeteer) with TCT, Variety! (Molly) with The Story Collective, and Awaited (Dancer/Actor) at the Aronoff Center for the Arts. Enjoy the show!

ALEX TALBOT (Hermey)

Alex Talbot is excited to be making his TCT debut as Hermey the Elf in Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer JR.! He is currently a senior at Milford High School. Some of his favorite past roles include Disney’s High School Musical JR. (Jack Scott), The Addams Family (Pugsley Addams), Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR. (Grimsby), and Shrek the Musical JR. (Lord Farquaad). Alex has participated in TCT’s STAR NKU Summer Intensive program for 4 years and will be a part of the upcoming TCT Junior Theatre Festival competition team for a 2nd year. He wants to thank his voice instructor Kate Krueger, the many instructors & friends he has made at TCT and in Milford High School Drama. An extra special thanks to his parents for their support over the years!

KAI VADIVELU (Young Rudolph) Kai is so grateful to be on TCT’s MainStage Disney’s The Jungle Book KIDS (Mowgli), Willy Wonka JR. Madagascar the Musical JR.

KAVAN VADIVELU (Rudolph)

13 the Musical and Disney’s High School Musical JR.

Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical JR. (Nigel) and Disney’s The Jungle Book KIDS

KEYA VADIVELU (Ensemble)

Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical JR. (Lavender/Matilda Elf the Musical JR. (Elf #1/

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast JR. 13 the Musical Madagascar the Musical JR.

RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER JR. PRODUCTION TEAM

KIM KERN

Managing Director & CEO

Kim is a native Cincinnatian and graduate of the Cincinnati Country Day School (’87). Kim left Cincinnati to attend Vanderbilt University (’91), where she received a Bachelor of Science in educational studies and human development, and then quickly returned to Cincinnati, which she and her family continue to call home. Kim assumed the role of Managing Director of The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati in September 2013, and then the combined role of Managing Director & CEO in 2015.

development, public relations, special events, grant acquisition, and major gift acquisition. Prior to joining TCT, Kim worked as President of the Ohio Valley Chapter of the National MS Society, Director of Major Gifts for National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and prior to that she was Director of Market Development for Local 12 WKRC-TV and Clear Channel Broadcasting. She served as the Executive Director of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and organizations in the areas of special events, board building, marketing, corporate sponsorship, public relations, fundraising, and promotions.

RODERICK JUSTICE

Artistic Director

Roderick is a proud member of The Stage Directors and Choreographers Society and is celebrating his 17th season with The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati. Recognized as one of The Cincinnati Business Courier’s Forty Under 40, his work is driven by a passion for storytelling and the impact arts have in childhood development. He is an award-winning director, choreographer, actor, costume designer, and theatre educator. Originally from eastern Kentucky, he obtained his Bachelor of Fine Arts in musical theatre from Northern Kentucky University. Since becoming Artistic Director in 2015, he has produced and commissioned over a dozen new musicals, plays, and worldpremiere adaptations. Outside of TCT, Roderick shares his passion as a guest artist, director, and choreographer for other organizations, including many in the region, such as his alma mater, Northern Kentucky University’s School of the Arts (SOTA), the School for Creative and Performing Arts (SCPA), the Commonwealth Theatre Company, The Carnegie, Cincinnati Landmark Productions, and The Lincoln Amphitheater in Lincoln City, Indiana. Some of his favorite credits include: Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins JR. (Broadway World Award), Legally Blonde The Musical (LCT Award), Church Girls, I Love a Piano (Acclaim Award), Seussical The Musical (LCT Award), Urinetown (Acclaim Award), Jesus Christ Superstar (CEA Nomination), Spamalot (LCT Nomination), The Velveteen Rabbit (Telly Award), The Elephant Man, and The Top Job (off-Broadway).

NATE BERTONE

Stage Director & Scenic Designer

As an NYC-based theatrical storyteller, he has worked internationally as a director, designer, and playwright. He has recently designed the world premiere productions of Florida Georgia Line’s May We All, Mystic Pizza Punk Rock Girl!. Nate’s work has appeared at Disney’s D23 Expo, Google, Broadway Sacramento, Ballet Memphis, Ogunquit Playhouse, Bucks County, North Shore Music Theatre, The Rev, Theatre by the Sea, Engeman, Queens Theatre, and more. As the Associate Designer for Tony Award–winning designer Beowulf Boritt: Be More Chill Crazy for You Superhero 20th Century Blues Freestyle Love Supreme, A Bronx Tale Letters From War and his new play, The SeaView Nursing Home for the Newly Deceased are currently in development. Dean’s Scholar: Central Saint Martins, London. Carnegie Mellon University alumnus. Representation: Gersh Agency. Proud member of USA829 and The Dramatists Guild. @natebertone www.natebertone.com

MADDIE BURGOON JONES

Associate Artistic Director

Maddie is a graduate of Northern Kentucky University with a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre. She also has her Masters in Arts Administration from the University of Kentucky. She has been performing with TCT for 15 years, where she has appeared in shows such as Disney’s Peter Pan JR. Santa Claus: The Musical Madagascar the Musical JR. (Rico the Seussical JR. theatre, hip hop, and contemporary, and has also won numerous National Championships in Tap and Musical Theatre. She was a member of the award-winning, all-female acapella group, the Baby Grands with SCPA, performing for audiences around the U.S. and China.

DANIELLE LOBELLO

Director of Production

Danielle (Dani) Lobello was previously the Director of Production for the Lisa Smith Wengler Center for the Arts at Pepperdine University in Malibu, California. She began her career as the Production Manager at Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, Illinois, where she developed and managed several IAAPA award-winning theme park shows and parades. Danielle received her B.A. in Theatre from Winona State University in Winona, Minnesota.

DIANE LALA Choreographer

Theatre at the University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music where she directs, choreographs, and teaches dance in the B.F.A. Musical Theatre Program. There she has directed and choreographed such shows as Something Rotten, Singin’ in the Rain, Jesus Christ Superstar, and 42nd Street. Diane recently directed and choreographed the regional premiere of Bandstand at Summer Lyric Theatre at Tulane in New Orleans, LA. Many of Diane’s former students are currently working on Broadway and in national tours. An associate member of SDC.

MARK FEMIA Music Director

of Cincinnati and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer JR. He currently works as the Academy Director for TCT, leading classes in voice and acting, as well as serving as the music director for

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THE RED-NOSED REINDEER JR. PRODUCTION TEAM

TCT’s AcademyLive! productions. Mark is a freelance director, music director, and accompanist in the greater Cincinnati area, working for groups such as Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, Cincinnati Landmark Productions, and many more. A former classroom educator, Mark taught for several years at both Cincinnati Country Day School and the UC/CCM Preparatory Department, and just returned from teaching overseas in both Malaysia and China. BS WV State University, MA Roosevelt University (Chicago).

JEFF SHEARER

Costume Design

This is Jeff’s seventh season as Resident Costume Designer for TCT. He has also designed costumes for Northern Kentucky University and Shawnee Playhouse in the Poconos, and served as Assistant Costume Designer for San Diego Repertory Theatre. Favorite projects include Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Mame, Gypsy, and Little Shop of Horrors. In addition, Jeff has designed for theme parks including Kings Island, Dorney Park, and Cedar Point.

MATTHEW BENJAMIN

Lighting Design

Professor of Lighting Design at Wright State University in Dayton, Matthew’s professional credits include seven seasons as resident lighting designer for the Opera Theatre and Music Festival of Lucca, Italy. Other work includes designs for and productions with the Interlochen Center for the Arts, Aspen Music Festival, Alley Theatre, Cincinnati Opera, CATCO, TriCities Opera, Luna Negra Dance Company, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, Dayton Opera, Opera at Florham, Ballet Tech of Ohio, South Jersey Regional Theatre, and the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, among others. Member: United Scenic Artists, Local 829: Lighting Design, and International Alliance of Lighting Designers.

BILL FUSS

Sound Design/Lead Audio Engineer

Bill is a life-long Cincinnati resident. His career in event production has spanned the past 25 years. During that time, he has worked with some of the top names in the music industry across the country. As an engineer, he has also provided technical sound support for many corporate and government events. He has been enjoying his work with The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati since 2012 and he is looking forward to his next season with the company.

DON MOORE

Assistant Audio Engineer/Playback Operator

Don Moore has worked on production projects for Pepsi, PlayStation, and the Cincinnati Bengals. More recently, Don Moore was featured on Bootsy Collins 2011 song, “Hip Hop @ Funk U,” alongside rap legends Ice Cube and Chuck D. He was also featured on Bootsy

ELLIE FANGMAN

Properties Master

Ellie is excited to be a part of the creative team at The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati. As a native of Cincinnati, she grew up attending the productions at the Taft Theatre, which is where her love of theatre began to grow. She received her B.F.A. in Scenic Design, Scenic Artistry, and Properties from The University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music. She has had the privilege to work with incredible designers and technicians around the country, including at the Illinois Shakespeare Festival, Opera Saratoga, The Cincinnati Artist Theatre, and more. She is delighted to be working with all the talented professionals here in Cincinnati and hopes you enjoy the show!

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PRODUCTION TEAM

JADI DAVIS

Resident Stage Manager

Jadi is excited for his second season with The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati. He has previous Stage Management experience for the Henry Mancini Academy, the Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center, Busch Gardens Entertainment, Kings Island Entertainment, and the Hamilton City School District. He was also a Theatrical Project Manager for Vincent Lighting Systems, and a Lighting Director for Riverfront Live, the Madison Theater, the Fitton Center for the Creative Arts, and the Greater Hamilton Civic Theatre.

ABBY SAUER

Assistant

Stage Manager

Abby is thrilled to be making her return to The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati after two years! Just prior to the pandemic shutdown, she was a Stage Management Intern for TCT’s production of Annie JR. . Abby recently received her Master’s Degree in Arts Administration from Roosevelt University’s Chicago College of the Performing Arts. She also holds a B.F.A. in Stage Management from UC’s nationally renowned College-Conservatory of Music.

Credits include: Assistant Stage Manager for Awaited The Christmas Story (Crossroads), Stage Manager for Bonnie & Clyde (Summer Repertory Theatre Festival), Assistant Stage Manager for Mamma Mia (Summer Repertory Theatre Festival), and Assistant Stage Manager for T enderly: A Rosemary Clooney Musical (The Carnegie). Other credits include: Cincinnati Ballet (Stage Management Intern) and Aspen Music Festival and School (Production Crew). Abby is honored to be part of this incredible production team! She would like to thank Jackie Smith, her family, and friends for the constant support and allowing her to live her dreams!

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THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CINCINNATI STAFF

Managing Director & CEO..........................................Kim Kern

Artistic Director ................................................Roderick Justice Shop Manager & Master Carpenter/Co-TD ..........................................................................Benjamin Adams

Development Manager – Grants & Corporate Partnerships .............................................................................Annie Bloemer

Early Childhood Education Manager........Miranda Bohannon Sales Manager ...................................................Curtricia Brown

program, Autism Society of Greater Cincinnati, Cincinnati Occupational Therapy Institute, Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati, The Point/Arc of Northern Kentucky, The Children’s Home of Cincinnati, Jenn Jordan of Q102 Graphic Design ................Cal Harris and Cincinnati Magazine Photographer .....................................................Mikki Schaffner Program Editor/Contributor .......................................Cal Harris

FROM THE PUBLISHERS OF

Arts Integration Specialist ...............Christopher Logan Carter Education Director

Cerniglia

Patron Experience Specialist ..........................Shelby Coleman

Resident Stage Manager ..........................................Jadi Davis Costume Shop Manager .........................Hannah Dringenburg

Scenic Painter..................................................Payton Epperson

TCT Academy Director............................................Mark Femia

Scenic Charge Artist/Co-TD ...............................Maggie Foley

Properties Master ................................................Ellie Fangman

Costume Assistant

Frisch

Creative Projects Manager.........................................Cal Harris Digital Marketing Manager...............................Kelly Holtgrefe Associate Artistic Director...................Maddie Burgoon Jones Finance Director ........................................................Tim Jones Company Manager .........................................Brandi La’Sherrill Director of Production...........................................Dani Lobello

Resident Playwright & WorkShop Artist ...............................................................Deondra Kamau Means Sales & Marketing Director ..........................Krista Katona Pille

THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CINCINNATI BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Gregory L. Adams (Chairman)

Lisa Reinhard (Vice Chair)

Charles O. Schiff (Vice Chair)

Danielle Wilson (Vice Chair)

Allison H. Kropp (Secretary)

David Crowley (Treasurer)

Jeanette Altenau, Peter Brown, Sarah Anne Campbell, Darcie D’Ascenzo, Melinda Davis, Abby Dougherty, Daniel M. Driehaus, Libby Galvin-Brock, Molly Garber, Paul Griscom, Peter Horton, Katherine O. Jarnigo, Rajan R. Kamath, Ph.D., Leanne Langdon, Kick Lee, Skip Merten, Ryan Messer, Avani C. Modi, Ph.D., Meghan Sullivan Nelson, Robin S. Sheakley Kathy Sias, Andrew Simon, Bethany R. Smith, Jennifer Spieser, Scott T. Stubbins, Adam Uihlein, Diana Victoriano, Owen J. Wrassman

TCT Academy Coordinator

Sankofa Resident Costume Designer

Shearer Development Director

Venters Development & Volunteer Manager

Wright Operations Manager

Emeritus Board .......................Edyth B. Lindner, Fran Carlisle Honorary Board ........................Vicki Herche, Carol Hilsinger

To learn more about the production, please visit www.thechildrenstheatre.com.

Zentmeyer

Young Patron Experience Manager

ADDITIONAL PRODUCTION TEAM

Technical Direction

Find us on Facebook. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn and TikTok @TCTCincinnati Special thanks to…. Cincinnati Ballet, Cincinnati Opera, University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music, Pulp Art Surfaces, LLC. Special thanks to Cincinnati Stage Employees Local 5

Plessinger

Burke Carpenter

Costume Shop Assistants

Horton, Beth Joos Dresser ........................................................................Alix Frisch

Dresser/Wig Maintenance

Lighting Equipment

Assistant Audio Engineer/Playback

Gordon

Productions

Backstage Employees are represented by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (or I.A.T.S.E.).

WARNING

The photographing or sound recording of any performance or the possession of any device for such photographing or sound recording inside this theater, without the written permission of the management, is prohibited by law. Violators may be punished by ejection and violations may render the offender liable for money damages.

2023 Flying Pig Youth Program

Looking for a great way to encourage kids to get moving & have fun at the same time?

Sign your class or youth organization up for the 2023 Flying Pig Youth Program. Interested youth group leaders can email kids@flyingpigmarathon.com to get started.

Training starts Spring 2023.

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati Wishes to Thank the Following Royal Supporters

INDIVIDUALS

Crown Jewels

(Gifts of $10,000 and above)

Robin & Matt Sheakley

Princes and Princesses

(Gifts of $2,500–$4,999)

Vicki Herche

Carol and Elliott Hilsinger

Susan Brenner & Steven Mombach

Mary Anne Rogers

Kathryn & Vishnoo Shahani

Kathy & George Sias Jan & Owen Wrassman

Dukes and Duchesses

(Gifts of $1,000–$2,499)

Phyllis & Greg Adams

Libby & Tony Brock

Kristina & David Crowley

The D’Ascenzo Family Melinda & Matt Davis

Emilie & David Dressler

Family Beth & Dan Driehaus

The Garber Family

Alicia Haughaboo & Andrew Giannella Griscom Family

Richard G. Kline

Mrs. Louise Koetters

Allison & J.B. Kropp

Leanne & Matt Langdon Marion & Harold Merten Dr. Avani Modi & Mr. Nilesh Patel

Lisa & Thad Reinhard Camille & Glenn Scherzinger

Christine & Charlie Schiff Andi & Andrew Simon

Emily & Scott Stubbins

The Tracy Family

Abigail & Adam Uihlein Anne & Eric Venters

Jeffrey Waltz in honor of Mary Wright

Mary C. Wright

The Zimmerman Family

Earls and Countesses

(Gifts of $500–$999)

Rob Blust Dee Anne Bryll & Ed Cohen

Jacklyn & Gary Bryson

Mr. & Mrs. George Budig

Alfredo Vicente Colas Castellote & Maria Jesus Gullon Perez

The Culver Family

Abby & Ben Dougherty

Allie, Jamie and Jeremy Mack

Kick Lee

Shannon & Darrell Miller Dede & Anthony Munoz

Molly North

Drs. Manisha Patel & Michael Curran

Teresa Hoelle & Scott Provancher

Karen & Robert Ripp Rebecca & Dan Scullin

Avanti & Sudhakar Vadivelu Karen & Sid Vance Janet & Jonathan Weaver Mary Lynn & Joe Sunderman in honor of Anne Venters Ian Woodmansee

Lords and Ladies

(Gifts of $250–$499)

Sarah Anne Campbell Ms. Jane Cooper Ms. Karen Forgus

Sarah Corlett & Jason Hampton Ms. Monica Hiler Dr. Ratee Apana & Dr. Rajan Kamath

Artessiaa Consulting Meg & Chris Kohnen in honor of Millie Kohnen

Melanie & Ryan Laurent Casey & Philip Ruschman Maria & Chris Uhlenbrock

Knights

(Gifts of $100–$249)

Jeanette Altenau

Sheri Auttonberry & Jason Conte

Annie Bloemer

Patrice & Keith Borders Amber Bovard

Drs. Betty Lou & Carlton Brett

Mr. Cristian Clopotel

Liz & Jeremy Donelan Judy & John Eilers in memory of Reg Barnard Todd Forbush Carrie Giannettino

Lauren & Wes Goebel

Madeleine H. Gordon

Teresa & KC Green Becky & Mike Gribler

Sharon Gudorf in honor of Dawson Timothy Kroger Emily & Tyler Hildebrand

Jennifer Holtman Haus of Hughes Mary Jo Katona

Arlene & Bill Katz Ms. Julie Keeney Anna & Lair Kennedy McKenzie & Gavin Kosier Deborah & Michael Laumann in honor of Jeanette Altenau

Julie & Mark Lloyd Meisel Family Foundation Fran & Jerry O’Gorman Kristina Redmond

Pennie & Craig Roberts

The Brothers Russo Kelly & Mark Schlafman Drs. Jayna & Daniel Schumacher

Melissa Skavlem

Trenna Sowder

The Spence Family Gregory Stenger Patricia & Matt Stepaniak Edie Slotkin in memory of Susan Gail Louiso Ruth Tierney

Bobbie McTurner & Andrew Ulmer

Teri and Todd Uterstaedt Victoria & David Veshapidze Ginger Warner Danielle & Robby Wilson

CORPORATIONS

Ascent Private Capital Management of U.S. Bank Dinsmore & Shohl LLP Gilman Partners

HBH Holdings in honor of Dr. Rajan Kamath Health Carousel, LLC Hixson Architecture Engineering Interiors

Ignite Philanthropy in honor of Allison Kropp

Interact For Health in Honor of Jeanette Altenau Johnson Investment Counsel, Inc. Payroll Partners

The Kroger Co. Walmart

FOUNDATIONS

American Homeland Title Community Foundation

ArtsWave

Charles Scott Riley III Foundation

Chemed Foundation Educational Theatre Foundation

Elsa M. Heisel Sule Foundation

Greater Cincinnati Foundation

Helen E. Allen Charitable Foundation

L&L Nippert Charitable Foundation

PNC Foundation

Robert and Adele Schiff Foundation

John A Schroth Family Charitable Trust

Scripps Howard Foundation Skyler Foundation

The Charles H. Dater Foundation

The H.B., E.W. and F.R. Luther Charitable Foundation, Fifth Third Bank, Trustee

The Harold C. Schott Foundation in honor of Allison Kropp

The P&G Fund of the Greater Cincinnati Foundation

The Shubert Foundation, Inc.

The Sutphin Family Foundation

The TAS Foundation

The William J. BaudeMaurice E. Oshry Fund of the Greater Cincinnati Foundation

Wohlgemuth Herschede Foundation

GOVERNMENT

City of Cincinnati ARP Performing Arts Grant

Hamilton County ARP Arts & Culture Relief Grant

National Endowment for the Arts

Ohio Arts Council

Ohio Department of Development

U.S. Small Business Administration

IN-KIND

American Legacy Tours Anderson Jewelers

Bethany R. Smith

Bircus Brewing Co.

Broadway in Cincinnati Chemed Corporation

Christine & Charlie Schiff Cincinnati Hilton Netherland Plaza

Cincinnati Zoo Cinemark

Circus Mojo Dewey’s Pizza EnterTrainment Junction

FC Cincinnati First Tee of Greater Cincinnati & NKY Graeter’s Ice Cream

Griscom Family

Heritage Bank Center James Free Jewelers

Judges Sylvia Sieve Hendon, Gwen Bender & Megan E. Shanahan

Kings Veterinary Hospital

Kirk’s - Family of Natural Brands

Kroger Queen City Championship Presented by P & G

Libby Galvin Brock

MEMI

Mrs. Fran Carlisle

Neighborhood Barre Covington

Northside Distilling Co.

Pearl’s Bar

Perfect North Slopes

Queen City Clay

Raising Cane’s

Rhinegeist

The Bonbonerie

The Cincinnati Reds

The Dent Schoolhouse

The Garber Family

The Langdons

The Summit Hotel

Thunderdome Restaurant Group

Top Golf

TPC River’s Bend

TriHealth

Urban Air Adventure Park

W&S Open

Xavier Athletics

Yelton Fine Jewelers

SPONSORS

Gold Star Macy’s, Inc. The Summit Hotel Time Timer

EVENT SPONSORS

The Allred Group with Coldwell Banker

Realty

Amber Andreaco - Artscape

Chemed Deloitte

Energy Systems Group

Fourth Street Performance Partners

The Garber Family Nancy Grote & Ann

Karen & David Hoguet

Huntington Learning Center

Jake Sweeney Automotive Becky & Dan Keating

Kings Veterinary Hospital

Martha & Carl H. Lindner III

Messer Construction Co.

Shannon & Darrell Miller

PNC Bank

Christine & Charlie Schiff

Bethany R. Smith

UBS Business Solutions

Shawn & Mark Weller

Jan and Owen Wrassman

TCT awakens a lifelong love of theatre in children, inspiring healing and courage while offering a sense of belonging and inclusion. Now more than ever, children need these experiences.

To help continue our mission and good work, please take time now to make a gift to TCT.

Thank you for choosing The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati during this season of giving!

The Ohio Arts Council is proud to support The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati

THE FREEDOM TO LOOK FORWARD

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