The Children's Theatre of Cincinnati - The Velveteen Rabbit

On Stage

November 12–December 13, 2020 Streaming on Broadway On Demand

November 19, 2020–May 31, 2021

PERSONAL & ACADEMIC GROWTH. BECAUSE WHO THEY BECOME IS AS IMPORTANT AS THE KNOWLEDGE THEY GAIN.

CHALLENGE YOURSELF. BE YOURSELF. From 18 months to 18 years of age, we are uniquely designed to help cultivate a passion for learning and independent thinking that prepares children to become exemplary citizens, confident leaders, and the best versions of themselves.

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a

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THANK YOU EDYTH B. LINDNER

THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CINCINNATI’S Production of

Adapted by William S. Kilborne, Jr. and Albert T. Viola Music by Albert T. Viola Lyrics by William S. Kilborne, Jr. Featuring

Deondra Kamau Means

Kavan Vadivelu

And

A. James Jones as The Velveteen Rabbit Directed and Co-Choreographed by Roderick Justice Co-Choreographed by Eric Byrd

Music Director Natalie Bird

Scenic Design Jennifer Rhodus

Costume Design Jeff Shearer

Lighting Design Benjamin Gantose

Technical Director Spencer C. Burke

Production Manager & Properties Master Jennifer M. Picone

Additional Orchestrations Steve Goers

Stage Manager Laura Stenger Producing Artistic Director Roderick Justice Managing Director and CEO Kim Kern The videotaping or other video or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited.

THE VELVETEEN RABBIT is presented through special arrangement with Pioneer Drama Service. www.pioneerdrama.com

THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CINCINNATI

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Cast of

CHARACTERS Soldier, Puppeteer......................................................................................................EVAN BLUST† Robot, Puppeteer................................................................................... CELIA JOY D’ASCENZO† Velveteen Rabbit..................................................................................................A. JAMES JONES Clown, Girl Rabbit.............................................................................MADDIE BURGOON JONES Marching Bear, Fairy, Puppeteer............................................. BRANDI LANGFORD-SHERRILL Skin Horse.............................................................................................DEONDRA KAMAU MEANS The Boy, Puppeteer...........................................................................................KAVAN VADIVELU† UNDERSTUDIES For Velveteen Rabbit & Skin Horse — EVAN BLUST† , for Clown, Girl Rabbit, Soldier & Puppeteer — MARLO D’ASCENZO†, for Bear, Fairy & Puppeteer — MIA BELLA D’ASCENZO† for The Boy & Robot — GRIFFIN HATFIELD† SWING For Velveteen Rabbit, Skin Horse, Clown, Soldier, Girl Rabbit, Bear, Fairy — KAYLA VOGEL † Denotes TCT’s Young Artists Company

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2020–2021 SEASON

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A Note From the Director PRESS PLAY When I was little, I sucked my thumb. A lot. This habit was accompanied with a satin-trimmed blanket, which I HAD TO HAVE when it was time for bed. Wrapped around my little index finger and between my thumb and other fingers, I rubbed the satin edge together until I fell asleep.

No matter how many attempts my parents made to break my habit of sucking my thumb and my need for the blanket…I only wanted it more. It defined my sleep pattern and gave me security.

LEVEL UP Kids (even us big kids) are always looking for security in an insecure world. Inanimate objects may not seem “real,” but the more we rely on and appreciate them the more real they become.

The Velveteen Rabbit is a poetic lesson in a child’s ability to love. Children are thrust into the same situations in which our Velveteen Rabbit finds himself. They can be made to feel insecure and inadequate, or not quite “real” when bullied or teased by others. Children are often left alone with their thoughts, worries, and vivid imaginations to fill in the blanks.

IT’S JUST A GAME The version of The Velveteen Rabbit you are going to see today is set within the concept of virtual reality. In this era of computers, smart phones, Zoom meetings, and gaming systems, a child’s imagination can be exercised in ways we never imagined before. Virtual reality and gaming systems also include a moment where a screen reads “game over.” This screen does not remove us from the “real” experience in which we were immersed, rather it reminds us of our physical world and how parallels can be drawn.

GAME OVER After constantly getting strep throat from sucking my thumb, my parents took me to the orthodontist to be fitted with a device that prevented me from sucking my thumb. When we arrived home, the satin edge blanket…gone. I won’t beat around the bush. I threw a tantrum and thought they were cruel! But for my own health, this had to be done.

RESTART As an adult, I do not suck my thumb, but I still sleep with a satin trimmed blanket under the comforter. I often find myself waking up with my fingers wrapped around the satin edge. This subconscious act is comforting and is a very real part of my routine.

We’ve all had our own velveteen rabbit, gaming system, blanket, or other security object to depend upon. As adults, we may not always see the value, but it is important to take a moment and realize how much a part of a child’s development those objects can be.

Enjoy the show!

Roderick Justice Producing Artistic Director

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2020–2021 SEASON

Creative Writing • Dance • Drama • Instrumental Music

Audition for

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VE & PERFORMING ARTS PRESENTS CO HO O LO LF OF R O RC RCERAETAI TVIEV E& &P EPREFROF R OM R IMNI G NG T HT EH ES CSH A RATRST S P RPERSEESNETNST S

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POP QUiZ How much do you know about The Velveteen Rabbit, presented this season by The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati?

1. In what year was The Velveteen Rabbit

6. Who wanted to adapt The Velveteen Rabbit

A. 1971 B. 1945 C. 2003 D. 1922

A. Jim Henson B. Walt Disney C. Tim Burton D. Don Bluth

2. How old was the author, Margery Williams,

7. Margery Williams had a pseudonym

A. 19 B. 25 C. 41 D. 33

A. Harper Lee B. Harper Williams C. T.S. Eliot D. Agatha Christie

3. What was the alternative title to

8. When was The Rabbit first given

A. How Toys Become Real B. Tin Toy C. In The Garden D. Toy Story

A. The Boy’s birthday B. Easter C. Christmas D. Thanksgiving

4. What illness did The Boy have in the story?

9. What did The Rabbit dream of becoming?

5. What does velveteen mean?

10. In the story, why do the fancier toys

originally published?

into an animated feature?

when The Velveteen Rabbit was released?

(a writer’s name). What was it?

The Velveteen Rabbit?

to The Boy?

A. Chicken Pox B. Measles C. Scarlet Fever D. Coronavirus

A. A Boy B. Real C. A toy soldier D. A dog

in the nursery look down on The Rabbit?

A. Made of fur B. A cotton fabric resembling velvet with a short thick pile C. Sad and lonely D. Loves breakfast

A. He isn’t as modern B. He is mean to the other toys C. The toys are allergic to rabbits D. The boy loves The Rabbit more than them

Fun Retro Toy Fact: The Skin Horse is called a “skin horse” because he is covered in leather. Toys like this were popular up through the 1930s when it was inexpensive to use leather to cover children’s toys.

1. D

2. C

3: A

4. C

5. B

6. D

7. B

8. C

9. B

10. A

ANSWERS THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CINCINNATI

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2020–2021 SEASON

#CincyArtsResilient With audience and performance limitations still ongoing, your gift to the arts matters more than ever. It ensures that music, art, theater, dance and festivals keep our region vibrant for years to come.

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A SEASON RE-IMAGINED

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A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS CAST

THE VELVETEEN RABBIT

CAST

A. JAMES JONES

MADDIE BURGOON JONES

DEONDRA KAMAU MEANS

BRANDI LANGFORD-SHERRILL

KAYLA VOGEL

YOUNG ARTISTS COMPANY

2020–2021 SEASON

EVAN BLUST

CELIA JOY D’ASCENZO

MARLO D’ASCENZO

MIA BELLA D’ASCENZO

GRIFFIN HATFIELD

KAVAN VADIVELU

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THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CINCINNATI

THE VELVETEEN RABBIT CAST

EVAN BLUST

Soldier, Puppeteer (u/s Velveteen Rabbit, Skin Horse)

Evan is honored to once again perform with The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati in his fifth season! His notable TCT credits include The Wizard of Oz (Munchkin/Monkey), Peter Pan JR. (Lost Boy), Sleeping Beauty (Ensemble), and Casper the Friendly Musical (Donald). He’s also appeared in Billy Elliot (Michael), Newsies (Davey), and Oliver! (Artful Dodger). Evan would like to thank TCT for the wonderful opportunity of being able to perform on stage again!

CELIA JOY D’ASCENZO Robot, Puppeteer

Celia is overjoyed to be joining TCT as they overcome the obstacles of 2020 to tell meaningful stories. In addition to being an avid singer, dancer, actress, pianist, and tumbler, Celia is a passionate storyteller.

Her favorite musical theatre credits include: Annie JR. (Molly) with TCT, Awaited, Disney’s Cinderella KIDS (Fairy Godmother), Seussical (Young Kangaroo), and Disney’s High School Musical JR. (Cheerleader.) Celia loves spending time laughing and creating shows with her sisters and friends.

u/s The Boy, Robot

Griffin is a freshman at Newport Central Catholic. He has been singing and acting from a young age and enjoys playing soccer. He is looking forward to working with the team at The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati. Credits include: Disney’s Aladdin JR. (Aladdin), Jesus Christ Superstar (Judas), Disney’s Frozen JR. (Hans), Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Reuben), How to Eat Like a Child (John), Disney’s Alice in Wonderland JR. (White Rabbit), Newsies (Jack), Les Misérables (Gavroche), and Children of Eden (Young Cain).

Velveteen Rabbit

James is a Cincinnati native with a B.F.A. in musical theatre from Northern Kentucky University School of the Arts (SOTA).

Favorite credits include: Casper The Friendly Musical (Uncle Stinky), Snow White and the Dancing Dwarfs (Prince Thomas), A. Lincoln: A Pioneer Tale (Aaron Grigsby), The Snow Queen (Prince Kai), Heart Attack with a Knife (Thomas Aykle), Spamalot (Lancelot), Rock of Ages (Lonny), Alice in Wonderland (The Cheshire Cat), and Elf the Musical JR. (Buddy). James is excited and proud to work with The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati as Creative Project Producer.

u/s Clown, Girl Rabbit, Soldier, Puppeteer

Marlo is delighted to be storytelling with TCT this year. Her previous TCT credits include: Annie JR. (Kate), A Charlie Brown Christmas (Twin), Peter Pan JR. (Twin 2), Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR. (Flounder), Casper The Friendly Musical, Disney’s The Jungle Book KIDS, Elf The Musical JR., The Wizard of Oz, Santa Claus: The Musical, and Disney’s Aladdin JR. She has performed regionally in Disney’s High School Musical JR. (Gabriella), Guys & Dolls (Sarah), Seussical JR. (Gertrude), and Crossroads’ Awaited (soloist). She also has a passion for piano, tap dancing, and teaching.

MADDIE BURGOON JONES Clown, Girl Rabbit

MIA BELLA D’ASCENZO Mia is excited to join TCT in sharing messages of hope in 2020. Prior TCT credits include: A Charlie Brown Christmas (Twin), Peter Pan

THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CINCINNATI

GRIFFIN HATFIELD

A. JAMES JONES

MARLO D’ASCENZO

u/s Bear, Fairy, Puppeteer

JR. (Twin 1), Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR. (Flounder), Disney’s Aladdin JR. (Iago), Annie JR. (Molly), The Wizard of Oz, Elf The Musical JR., Santa Claus: The Musical, & Pinkalicious.

Mia has appeared in Guys & Dolls (Adelaide), Disney’s High School Musical JR. (Taylor), Seussical JR. (Mayzie), Disney’s The Jungle Book KIDS (Mowgli), and Awaited. Mia loves baking, reading, water-skiing, dancing, teaching, and laughing with her sisters.

Maddie is a graduate of Northern Kentucky University with a B.F.A. in musical theatre.

She has been performing with TCT for 15 years. Favorite productions include Peter Pan JR. (Tiger Lily), Santa’s Toy Factory, The Day Before Christmas, Snow White and the

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THE VELVETEEN RABBIT CAST Dancing Dwarfs, and Seussical JR. She has also choreographed for TCT (The Wizard of Oz). Other favorite choreography credits include Spamalot, 25th Annual...Spelling Bee, and Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.

She teaches dance, with her work receiving national awards in tap, musical theatre, hip-hop, and contemporary. Maddie is TCT’s Education Manager.

Creative and Performing Arts. She currently resides in Greenhills, Ohio, with her husband Michael and their three children Jordan, Tyson, and Kennedi.

DEONDRA KAMAU MEANS Skin Horse

Deondra has been part of The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati for the past 25 seasons.

As a professional actor, he has traveled to perform in Chicago and St. Louis and in 2007 toured Romania with the cast of Man of LaMancha with Northern Kentucky University.

Past TCT productions include Tarzan the Stage Musical Based on the Disney Film (Kerchak), Alice in Wonderland (Caterpillar), The Wizard of Oz (Lion), Charlotte’s Web (Templeton), The Rockin’ Adventures of Peter Rabbit (Benjamin Bunny) and so many more.

He has performed and/or directed for ArtWorks, Cincinnati Opera, Theatre IV, Xavier Players, Future World Productions, Studio Theater, Happy Nia Productions, Kings Productions Medasi African Dance and Drum Ensemble, Njo jo Family Productions, 144k

BRANDI LANGFORD-SHERRILL Marching Bear, Fairy, Puppeteer

Brandi, a Cincinnati native, made her first appearance with TCT on the MainStage in 2010 with Disney’s Peter Pan JR. (Pirate/ Chorus). In 2012, she appeared as the Gypsy Woman in Rapunzel, Rapunzel: A Very Hairy Fairy Tale. Since then, she has managed and performed with the TCT Touring division, TCT On Tour, for five seasons as a Resident Artist. She co-created and stars in the one-woman production, Harriet Tubman: Straight Up Outta’ the Underground, as well as Jacqueline and the Beanstalk. Brandi is a proud graduate of the the School for

Proudly showcasing 50 years of theatrical and musical talent.

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THE VELVETEEN RABBIT CAST Artistic Order, Show biz International, and Congo Square Theatre. As a co-creator of the WorkShop series for TCT On Tour, Deondra has written and conducted sessions including Self-Esteem Through Self-Expression, a residency teaching the works of Langston Hughes, Art Alive! and Freedom Songs. He also co-created Harriet Tubman: Straight Up Outta’ the Underground; created and wrote Martin’s Dream, a one-man show that brings the historical figure of Dr. Martin Luther King to life through the power of story, speech and song; and penned the world-premiere show, Jacqueline and the Beanstalk. All three productions are part of TCT’s brand new, interactive Pick-A-Path offerings. They are also available in-person via TCT On Tour and digitally via Broadway on Demand.

KAVAN VADIVELU The Boy, Puppeteer

Kavan is excited to be part of The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s reimagined season!

He currently attends The Seven Hills Middle School and previously played Mowgli

in TCT’s 2019 production of Disney’s The Jungle Book KIDS. His school and community theater credits include James in James & the Giant Peach, Charlie Bucket in Willy Wonka and Chocolate Factory, Ben in Disney’s Descendants JR., and Aladdin in Disney’s Aladdin KIDS. He’d like to thank TCT for their support, training and for always uplifting our community!

KAYLA VOGEL Swing

Kayla is so excited to be involved with her first production at The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati. Kayla works at The Children’s Theatre as a Ticketing Specialist, as well as a Resident Teaching Artist. She received her B.F.A. in Theater Performance from Ohio University. Kayla is originally from Rochester, NY, which contrary to popular belief, is not the same as New York City.

Her favorite hobby is making a mess of her kitchen while attempting new baking recipes without setting anything on fire. She mostly succeeds.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT TERA PIERCE Tera.pierce@tctcincinnati.com • 513-569-8080 x32

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THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CINCINNATI

THE VELVETEEN RABBIT PRODUCTION TEAM

THE VELVETEEN RABBIT

PRODUCTION TEAM KIM KERN

Managing Director & CEO

Kim is a native Cincinnatian and graduate of 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. Kim’s expertise spans nonprofit management, fundraising, strategic planning, market media 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 spent time operating her own consulting company, advising both for-profit and not-for-profit organizations in the areas of special events, board building, marketing, corporate sponsorship, public relations, fundraising, and promotions.

RODERICK JUSTICE

Producing Artistic Director, Stage Director, Co-Choreographer

Roderick is a proud member of The Stage Directors and Choreographers Society and is celebrating his 15th season with The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati. Recently recognized as one of The Cincinnati Business Courier’s Forty Under 40 in 2020, his work is driven by a passion for storytelling, the impact arts have in childhood development, and the power live theatre brings in important conversations to promote empathy and make our world a better place. He is an award-winning choreographer, actor, director, costume designer, playwright, adjudicator, and mentor to hundreds of young performers. Originally from eastern Kentucky, he obtained his Bachelor of Fine Arts in musical theatre from Northern Kentucky University. Since becoming Producing Artistic Director in 2015, he has produced and commissioned more than a dozen new musicals, plays, and world-premiere 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 award-winning Commonwealth Theatre Company, The Carnegie, Cincinnati Landmark Productions, and The Lincoln Amphitheater in Lincoln City, Indiana, to name a few. Some of his favorite credits include: Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins JR. (Broadway World Award), Legally Blonde (LCT Award), Church Girls, I Love A Piano (Acclaim Award), Seussical (LCT Award), Urinetown (Acclaim Award), Jesus Christ Superstar (CEA Nomination), Spamalot (LCT Nomination), BurgerTown (Chicago production), Man of La Mancha (Romania production), The Elephant Man, and The Top Job (off-Broadway).

THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CINCINNATI

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THE VELVETEEN RABBIT PRODUCTION TEAM

ERIC BYRD

Co-Choreographer, Associate Artistic Director, Company Manager

Eric is a Cincinnati native who moved home from New York City in 2016. TCT credits include Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins JR. (Bert), director of Santa Claus: The Musical, director and choreographer of Annie JR. and choreographer of Casper The Friendly Musical, Elf The Musical JR., Peter Pan JR., Sleeping Beauty, and Madagascar: A Musical Adventure. While in New York, he worked at the Broadway casting office of Stewart/ Whitley. Casting projects included the Broadway productions of On the Town, Chicago, and The Great Comet, as well as national tours of Bullets Over Broadway, Once, Shrek, Into the Woods, and Elf, and Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s productions of We Will Rock You, Cats, Saturday Night Fever, Mamma Mia!, and Grease. Eric served as a choreographer and assistant director at Interlochen Summer Arts Camp. He has also served on panels and taught master classes around the country. He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in musical theatre and a minor in management from Wright State University and is an adjunct professor in the musical theatre department of University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music (CCM).

NATALIE BIRD Music Director

Natalie has performed on stage, screen and in the sound booth professionally since the age of 11. She returned to her hometown of Cincinnati after spending nine years in NYC. She has a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre from Wright State University. New York City theatre credits includeThe Cherry Orchard, The Top Job, and Edward II. Most recently, she appeared as Emma in Lizzie at The Human Race Theatre Company and as Adult Alison in Fun Home at Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati. Regionally, she has performed with many theatre companies,

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THE VELVETEEN RABBIT PRODUCTION TEAM including Commonwealth Theatre Company, Athens West, and here at TCT in Disney’s High School Musical ON STAGE! You can catch her on film in The Bourne Legacy, TV, and web in Unforgettable and Dominatrix Breakroom (for which she also wrote) and commercials for Time Warner Cable, Sleep Inn Hotels, and MoveOn.org. You’ve also probably heard her on the radio for various commercials. She has taught at several high schools in the area, as well as mommy and me classes with Little Maestros in NYC. Natalie is TCT’s Academy Manager.

JENNIFER RHODUS

Resident Scenic Designer, Charge Artist

Jennifer is a Cincinnati native. She has been designing for the company since 2016 and has been the Charge Artist since her inception with The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati in 2012.

She is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music (CCM), where she earned her B.F.A. in Theatre Design and Production, with an emphasis on scenic design.

She has worked as a Scenic Designer, Assistant Designer, Charge Artist, and Scenic Painter throughout the community with numerous theatres, including Cincinnati Opera, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, The Carnegie, Dayton’s Human Race Theatre Company, & Cincinnati Ballet. Her favorite design credits include Casper The Friendly Musical, Santa Claus: The Musical, La Tragédie de Carmen, Let’s Cook Up an Opera, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast JR., and SNOOPY! The Musical.

JEFF SHEARER

Resident Costume Designer

This is Jeff’s fifth season as Resident Costume Designer for TCT. He has also designed costumes for Northern Kentucky University, Theatre By The Sea in Rhode Island, Shawnee Playhouse in the Poconos, and served as Assistant Costume Designer for San Diego Repertory

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THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CINCINNATI

THE VELVETEEN RABBIT PRODUCTION TEAM 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.

BENJAMIN GANTOSE Lighting Designer

Benjamin is an Ohio native. He grew up in Berea, Ohio, and attended the CollegeConservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati, where he studied theatrical design and production with an emphasis on lighting design. Benjamin has been involved in both scenic and lighting design for works spanning ballet and modern dance, scripted and devised theatre, musical theatre, opera, and theme parks. He is Resident Lighting Designer at Cleveland Public Theatre and an Associate Designer at the Cincinnati Ballet and Kansas City Ballet. Benjamin’s work has been seen recently at Cleveland Playhouse, Ballet Hawaii, Beck Center For The Arts, Cleveland Musical Theater, Verb Ballets, and Inlet Dance Theatre.

As an Associate Designer, Benjamin’s work includes lighting and scenic designs at Louisville Ballet, Colorado Ballet, Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Cain Park, and Lakeland Civic Theatre. This is Benjamin’s seventh season with The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati.

SPENCER C. BURKE Technical Director

Spencer is pleased to continue his role with The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati for a third season. He originally hails from Akron, Ohio, but has called several states home while pursuing his career in technical directing. He received his B.F.A. in theatre design from Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University. He has had the privilege of working with

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2020–2021 SEASON

THE VELVETEEN RABBIT PRODUCTION TEAM incredible designers and technicians at notable theaters including Shakespeare Theatre D.C. and Orlando Shakespeare. After teaching at Wofford College and Western Carolina University, he is excited to be working with the talented professionals here in Cincinnati!

JENNIFER M. PICONE

Production Manager & Properties Master

Jenn has been with The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati since 2003. She graduated from Miami University with a B.F.A. in theatre production and design. When she’s not in production with The Children’s Theatre, Jenn can be found managing the stage for the Cincinnati Opera, where recent credits include the U.S. premiere of Another Brick in the Wall: The Opera, and Francesca Zambello’s production of Porgy and Bess. Her previous stage management includes work at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, Miami University Opera, Dayton Opera, and the Village Playhouse in Oxford, Ohio. Jenn is grateful for the unending support from her husband and parents, who also work in the performing arts and can often be found backstage working with TCT!

LAURA STENGER Stage Manager

Laura is grateful to be here for her fifth season with TCT! Laura is no stranger to the Cincinnati area, but still maintains her Hoosier roots. She is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music with her B.F.A. in theatre design and production. Her previous managerial credits include working at Cirque du Soleil on Michael Jackson ONE, La Jolla Playhouse, and the New York Musical Festival as an Associate Production Manager, as well as locally at Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati and Cincinnati Opera.

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25

THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CINCINNATI

THE VELVETEEN RABBIT PRODUCTION TEAM THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CINCINNATI STAFF Managing Director & CEO ......................................... Kim Kern Producing Artistic Director.............................. Roderick Justice Scenic Carpenter.............................................Benjamin Adams TCT Academy Manager...........................................Natalie Bird Technical Director........................................... Spencer C. Burke Associate Artistic Director & Company Manager....................................................Eric Byrd

Scenic Painting...........................................................Alex Frank, Ruth Wartman, Jennifer Rhodus Sensory-Friendly Advisors............................................................

Theatre Development Fund’s Autism Theatre Initiative, Cincinnati Children’s Starting Our Adventure Right, (SOAR) program, CCHMC/Cincinnati Leadership, Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related, Disabilities (LEND) program, The Children’s Home of Cincinnati, Autism Society of Greater, Cincinnati, Cincinnati Occupational Therapy Institute, Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati, The Point/Arc of Northern Kentucky, Jenn Jordan of Q102 Photographer......................................................Mikki Schaffner

Education Director..........................................Angelo Cerniglia

Program Editor.............................................. Krista Katona Pille

Costume Shop Manager..........................Hannah Dringenburg

Program Publisher..................................... Cincinnati Magazine

Marketing Manager................................................. Julia Fowler

Special Thanks to......................... Cincinnati Ballet, PPS Group, and Broadway On Demand

Costume Assistant...................................................... Alix Frisch Resident Teaching & WorkShop Artist......................Scott Hunt Creative Project Producer................................. A. James Jones

THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CINCINNATI BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Education Manager..............................Maddie Burgoon Jones Tour Manager & Resident Artist......... Brandi Langford-Sherrill Sales and Ticketing Director................................. Tina Marshall Resident Playwright & WorkShop Artist................................Deondra Kamau Means

Gregory L. Adams (Chairman)

Box Office & House Manager.......................... Samantha Misali

Lisa Reinhard (Vice Chair)

Production Stage Manager.......................... Jennifer M. Picone

Charles O. Schiff (Vice Chair)

Development Manager, Corporate Partnerships............................................. Tera Pierce

Allison H. Kropp (Secretary)

Creative & Marketing Director.................... Krista Katona Pille Shop Foreman & Master Carpenter............... Alicia W. Rhodus Resident Scenic Designer & Charge Artist................................................. Jennifer Rhodus Resident Costume Designer....................................Jeff Shearer Associate Stage Manager.................................... Laura Stenger Finance Director....................................................Chad Stewart Development Director.......................................... Anne Venters Ticketing Specialist & Teaching Artist..................... Kayla Vogel Sales Manager............................................. Violet Rae Webster Development & Volunteer Manager......................Mary Wright

Peter Horton (Vice Chair)

Meghan Sullivan Nelson (Treasurer) Scott T. Stubbins (Immediate Past Chair) Tara N. Adams, Jeanette Altenau, Libby Galvin Brock, Jessica Cicchinelli, Lisa Connelly, David Crowley, Darcie D’Ascenzo, Melinda Davis, Abby Dougherty, Daniel M. Driehaus, Paul Griscom, Jessica Guarnaschelli, Rajan R. Kamath, Leanne Langdon, Kick Lee, Skip Merten, Ryan Messer, Avani Modi, Toyia Montgomery, Casey Ruschman, Robin S. Sheakley, Andrew Simon, Jennifer Suttles, Adam Uihlein, Amanda J. Vaughn, Richard P. Walburg, Danielle Wilson, Owen J. Wrassman Emeritus Board..........................Edyth B. Lindner, Fran Carlisle Honorary Board........................... Vicki Herche, Carol Hilsinger

Operations Manager.................................................Pam Young To learn more about the production, please visit www.thechildrenstheatre.com.

ADDITIONAL PRODUCTION TEAM

Find us on Facebook. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn and Snapchat @TCTCincinnati

Stage Director & Co-Choreographer....................................... Roderick Justice

WARNING

Co-Choreographer........................................................Eric Byrd Music Director...........................................................Natalie Bird Scenic Designer................................................ Jennifer Rhodus Lighting Designer......................................... Benjamin Gantose Properties Master......................................... Jennifer M. Picone Dresser & Wardrobe................................................... Alix Frisch

THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CINCINNATI

The photographing or sound recording of any performance in the theater or at home, 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.

26

2020–2021 SEASON

The lives of Harriet Tubman and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and even the story of Matilda, show us that with perseverance and commitment, adversity can be overcome. We are working overtime to bring the arts to you! Your gift of any amount will make a difference. tinyurl.com/TCTGive

HOLIDAY SHOPPING FOR A PURPOSE ONLINE AUCTION NOVEMBER 12-22 (Midnight) Find that special gift during the holiday season and make a difference for TCT. tinyurl.com/TCTAuction2020

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

($10,000 AND ABOVE) Edyth B. Lindner ArtsWave Ohio Arts Council Patricia A. Corbett Trust National Endowment for the Arts Chemed Corporation The Charles H. Dater Foundation Educational Theatre Foundation Vicki Herche Foundation Allison and JB Kropp The H.B., E.W. and F.R. Luther Foundation Martha S. Lindner L&L Nippert Charitable Foundation The Oliver Family Foundation P & G Fund of the Greater Cincinnati Foundation The Harold C. Schott Foundation Louise Taft Semple Foundation The Shubert Foundation Skyler Foundation The Sutphin Family Foundation TAS Foundation and Meg and Andy Nelson TriHealth

KINGS AND QUEENS

($5,000 TO $9,999) Gold Star Chili The Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile, Jr./ U.S. Bank Foundation Karen and David Hoguet Macy’s Christine and Charlie Schiff Sea of Smiles Pediatric Dentistry Robin and Matt Sheakley Jack J. Smith, Jr. Charitable Trust Elsa M. Heisel Sule Foundation Nellie Leaman Taft Foundation Time Timer

PRINCES AND PRINCESSES

Kings Veterinary Hospital PNC Foundation August A. Rendigs, Jr. and Helen Rendigs Foundation The Marge & Charles J. Schott Foundation Wohlgemuth Herschede Foundation Ian Woodmansee

DUKES AND DUCHESSES

($1,000 TO $2,499) Phyllis and Greg Adams Art Opportunities Ascent Private Capital Management B&K Trucking Darcie and Rocco D’Ascenzo Dinsmore & Shohl LLP Emilie W. and David W. Dressler Family Fund of The Greater Cincinnati Foundation Duke Energy Foundation First Watch Restaurants Fourth Street Performance Partners Alicia Haughaboo and Andrew R. Giannella Greater Cincinnati Foundation Summertime Kids Jason and Carey Greiner Paul Griscom Dr. Jessica Guarnaschelli Carol and Elliott Hilsinger Interact for Health Lucy and Craig Joffe Roderick Justice Kim and Don Kern Richard Kline, Sr. Susie and Jack Louiso Perfetti Van Melle Charles Scott Riley, III Foundation Mary Anne and James E. Rogers Andi and Andrew Simon The Summit, A Dolce Hotel Unlimited Systems Wireless Zone Foundation for Giving Jan and Owen Wrassman Mary C. Wright

($2,500 TO $4,999)

EARLS AND COUNTESSES

BRG Realty Group, LLC The Children’s Home of Cincinnati

Libby Brock Camille and Glenn

($500 TO $999)

THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CINCINNATI

Lisa and John Connelly Kristina and David Crowley Amy and Andrew DeWitt Erpenbeck Elementary School Second Grade Scott and Mary Farmer Joan Ferrante Skip Merten Daniel and Kara Messer Planet Fitness James and Patricia Schuchter Dan and Rebecca Scullin Kathryn and Vishnoo Shahani Charitable Trust Emily and Scott Stubbins Anne and Len Texter UBS Business Solutions Anne and Eric Venters Janet and Jonathan Weaver

LORDS AND LADIES ($250 TO $499)

Dr. & Mrs. Rob Altenau The Beatty Family Jackie and Gary Bryson Amanda and Michael Caton The Chamberlin Family Sarah Corlett Matt and Melinda Davis Joffe Foundation Rajan R. Kamath, Ph.D. Chris and Meg Kohnen The Kreller Group Tracy Moss Krista Katona Pille and Family Elmer, Amy, and Autumn Pittman Deborah Reis Casey and Philip Ruschman UBS Matching Gifts Program U.S. Bank Employee Giving Campaign Nicole Ware

KNIGHTS

($100 TO $249) Amber Andreaco Paul J. Bergman Valerie Bopp Eric Bricking Jennifer Buchholz George and Mary Jo Budig John and Tracey Burgoon Joseph Carroll

28

Jessica Cicchinelli Contemporary Cabinetry East Drs. Manisha Patel and Michael Curran Abby and Ben Dougherty Kryn Dyjak Madeleine H. Gordon Michael and Rebecca Gribler Lisa Hezlep Peter and Mary Horton Katherine and John Jarnigo Ken and Christine Jones Mary Jo Katona Emily Kissela Dennis Klasmeier Christopher and Debra Klein Kuchta Family Leanne Langdon Laurent Giving Fund The Leanza Family David Meinecke Alvin “Bunny” Meisel Jill P. Meyer Saleel and Heather Muzumdar Avani Modi and Nilesh Patel Christopher and Erica Pavese Jillian Payne Denise Bradshaw Poage Lisa and Thad Reinhard Cathie Ridenour Karen and Robert Ripp Lyle and Jean Ritze The Roudabush Family Regina Carswell Russo Eric and Carrie Shufflebarger Sarah Spence Shannon and Matt Stautberg Maria and Chris Uhlenbrock Adam and Abigail Uihlein Veshapidze Family Rich and Cindy Walburg Jeffrey P. Waltz Lisa Williams Janet Zeitler

This list reflects all gifts of $100 or more made October 6, 2019 to October 6, 2020.

2020–2021 SEASON

YOU had the POWER TO CHOOSE What if

which path to take?

Experience professionally recorded and edited versions of three of our touring productions enhanced with interactive components where viewers can “CHOOSE THEIR OWN ADVENTURE” by making different choices along the way. Children can make selections and direct the action of the play — including different twists and turns — providing greater viewing interest and interactive engagement. All leading to the same outcome, of course, because we don’t want to change the story.

AVAILABLE NOW

AVAILABLE NOW

AVAILABLE JAN 4

Visit www.thechildrenstheatre.com/pick-a-path

WE NEED YOUR

FEEDBACK! Please visit our website or scan the QR code below to share your comments with us.

Watched with your family, take our

Watched with your class, take our

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SCHOOL SURVEY

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