February 28, March 1 & 2 2025
Community Theatre at the
Production of
Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s
MARY POPPINS
A Musical based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney Film
Original Music and Lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman
Book by Julian Fellowes
New Songs and Additional Music and Lyrics by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe
Co-Created by Cameron Mackintosh
Co-Scenic Designer/Scenic Charge ASHLEY CUSACK
Lighting Designer JUSTIN CHRISTOPHER ODON
Properties OLIVIA GRAUSAM
Production Manager JAMES MARHOLD
Co-Scenic Designer/Technical Director KYLE SANTOPADRE
Costume Designer JAMES GRAUSAM
Production Stage Manager FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ
Music Director JONATHAN MEHL
Director/Choreographer MATTY PRICE
Flying Effects provided by ZFX
Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s MARY POPPINS
Is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com
Show Sponsor: Fitz and the P.E.A.
Season Sponsors:
Courtyard by Marriott - Red Bank/Lincroft
The Law Firm of Jonathan D’Agostino & Associates; World Subaru
A MESSAGE FROM THE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
It’s hard to believe that Mary Poppins, the Disney film, came out 60 years ago. With its amazing score, brilliant mix of live-action and animation, charming characters and the perfection of Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke, it’s no wonder the film has become a beloved masterpiece around the world. And long before the show premiered on Broadway, my parents were subjected to hours of my one-man live show to the movie soundtrack in our basement where I played all the parts. Now that I’m a bit older and hopefully wiser, it’s hard to believe I missed so much of the messages Mary Poppins teaches. Messages we can all use today. Mary Poppins teaches us there is magic in the world if you just take the time to notice. Imagination is a good thing; it can solve almost any problem that puzzles you. Business is important, success is nice, but family-time is precious. We’re so glad you’re here with us at the Count Basie Center – and we’re proud to be a great way for families to spend time together while celebrating the amazing talent within our community.
Enjoy the magic.
James Managing Artistic Director
Phoenix Productions at the Count Basie Center for the Arts
Phoenix Productions would like to thank our dedicated cast, staff and volunteers that worked so hard to make our MARY POPPINS show a success.
If you’d like information about auditioning for a future show, please visit our website at: www.PhoenixRedBank.com/auditions
Co-Choreographer
Stephen Mear
Scenic and Costume Design
Bob Crowley
Co-Direction and Choreography
Matthew Bourne
Directed by Richard Eyre
Lighting Design
Howard Harrison
Original London and Broadway Production Credits:
Produced by Cameron Mackintosh and Thomas Schumacher
CAST OF CHARACTERS
(in order of appearance)
Bert MICHAEL DALY
George Banks ................................................................................................ JOSEPH DeMAIO
Winifred Banks ..................................................................................................... AMY POLIZZI
Jane Banks........................................................................ PERSEPHONE (PERSY) ARCEMENT
Michael Banks KEEGAN HAACK
Katie Nanna................................................................................................. DANA JILL MALEY Policeman ...........................................................................................................SEAN KEARNS
Miss Lark ......................................................................................... MICHELLE ELAINE LUCEY
Admiral Boom DARREN DeANGELO
Mrs. Brill AMANDA MUNICE
Robertson Ay .......................................................................................... MICHAEL ABRAMOV
Mary Poppins ............................................................................................. MARIA HEITMANN
Park Keeper .................................................................................................... KYLE KENNEDY Neleus ANTHONY FERRIGNO
Bank Chairman ..................................................................... JO-LEO W. CARNEY-WATERTON
Miss Smythe ................................................................................................ DANA JILL MALEY
Von Hussler ........................................................................................................SEAN KEARNS
Northbrook KYLE KENNEDY
Bird Woman KATHLEEN CORKE
Mrs. Corry ...................................................................................................... LORETTA BOYLE
Fannie ...................................................................................... RACHEL ELIZABETH ROSARIO
Annie .................................................................................................................. ISABELLA SISO
Valentine DANIEL CANCEL
Miss Andrew ..................................................................................................JESSICA COGAN
Children’s Ensemble:
BENJAMIN CASSANO, SIERRA GOODE, DAISY IFANTIS, JOSEPH SERZAN
Adult Ensemble:
JONES ALMEIDA, LORETTA BOYLE, DANIEL CANCEL, JO-LEO W. CARNEY-WATERTON, JESSICA COGAN, KATHLEEN CORKE, DARREN DeANGELO, DANIEL De PIEROLA, ANTHONY FERRIGNO, TRAVIS GASTON, SEAN KEARNS, KYLE KENNEDY, MICHELLE ELAINE LUCEY, DANA JILL MALEY, JULIA MONSEY, MICHELLE MOUGHAN, RACHEL ELIZABETH ROSARIO, ISABELLA SISO, ANDREW VIELMA-HALL, ELENA WORTON, STEFANIE WORTON
Statues, bank clerks, customers, toys, chimney sweeps, lamp lighters, and inhabitants of Cherry Tree Lane played by members of the company.
UNDERSTUDIES
For Mary Poppins: ISABELLA SISO; For Bert: ANTHONY FERRIGNO; For Winifred Banks: LORETTA BOYLE; For Michael Banks: JOSEPH SERZAN; For Jane Banks: SIERRA GOODE
THE PRODUCTION TEAM
Production Manager ................................................................................... JAMES MARHOLD
Associate Production Manager ................................................................... ANTHONY VIERA
Director/Choreographer .................................................................................... MATTY PRICE
Music Director ............................................................................................. JONATHAN MEHL
Assistant Choreographer/Dance Captain ...................................................... JULIA MONSEY
Technical Director / Lead Carpenter ....................................................... KYLE SANTOPADRE
Co-Scenic Designer ....................................................................................... ASHLEY CUSACK
Co-Scenic Designer KYLE SANTOPADRE
Lighting Designer JUSTIN CHRISTOPHER ODON
Costume Designer JAMES GRAUSAM
Associate Costume Designer JANNETTE FISHER
Properties OLIVIA GRAUSAM
Sound Designer.................................................................................................................. ACIR
Sound ASM ...................................................................................................... TOM HESSMAN
Scenic Charge ................................................................................................ ASHLEY CUSACK
Production Stage Manager ........................................................... FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ
Assistant Production Stage Managers ...............................RYAN ALGER, MARISSA DeVEAU
Carpenter ................................................................................................................ ZACK BLISS
Costume Crew ....................... ERICH ARCEMENT, DONA COFFEY, FRANKIE CONFALONE, STEPHANIE FAZZOLARI, NATALIE JAMISON, STEPHANIE MALEWSKI, JOANNE PENROSE, AMY POLIZZI, BEN POLIZZI, ELLEN SHORT
Child Care BETHANY MIRANDA
Scenic Crew PERSY ARCEMENT, NERINA GARCIA-ARCEMENT PH.D, DONNA HUNT, MICHELLE ASCH, AMANDA CASSANO, BENJAMIN CASSANO, JESSICA COGAN, DARREN DeANGELO, DANIEL De PIEROLA, ANN FORBES, LAUREN FRIEDMAN, KIMBERLY GELFAND, PHILIP HICKEY, DEVON IWANOFF, ETTA IWANOFF, PAT KAY, KRISTIN McMANUS, AMANDA MUNICE, MARIELLA MUNICE, ALYSSA NEY, LISA SIKO, VICTORIA SPEISER, DENNIS TOLENTINO, ELENA WORTON, STEFANIE WORTON
Managing Artistic Director ......................................................................... JAMES GRAUSAM
Special Thanks ......................................COUNT BASIE CENTER MARKETING DEPARTMENT, COUNT BASIE CENTER TURNER ACADEMY OF THE ARTS, DIANE DiYANNI
THE ORCHESTRA
Conductor / Keyboard 1 ............................................................................ JONATHAN MEHL
Keyboard 2............................................................................................................ KARA LEIGH
Cello .................................................................................................................. PATTY GONSKY
Reed 1 MITCHELL MARTIN
Reed 2..............................................................................................................FABIAN SCHULZ
Reed 3.............................................................................................................. LAURIE KUNZLE
Trombone 1 PAUL MORRIS
Trombone 2 .......................................................................................................HANS MUHLER
Trumpet 1 .......................................................................................................... JOE MOSELLO
Trumpet 2 SEAN HACK
Horn 1 ........................................................................................................ TRISH GIANGIULIO
Horn 2 ........................................................................................................ ALEX MASTRANDO
Guitar .................................................................................................................... JOSH SIEGEL
Bass ANDREW ROSCISZEWSKI
Percussion ................................................................................................................ JAY MACK
PHOENIX PRODUCTIONS OPERATIONS COMMITTEE
SoVonna Day-Goins (Co-Chair)
Sarah Bradley
Jerry Conaty
Natalie Hayes-Scott
Tom Hessman
Nancy Karpf
Joe Wajda (Co-Chair)
Fran Centofante Katz
Maria Maher
James Marhold
Justin Christopher Odon
Adam Philipson
Izzy Sackowitz
Jarrod Scott
Dennis Tolentino
Fran Turner
Jon Vena
Darrell L. Willis
Count Basie Center for the Arts, a not for profit organization
Count Basie Center Executive Committee of the Board
Jeremy Grunin Chairperson
Stephen Cutler Treasurer
Robin Klein Governance Officer
Stuart Alderoty
Mitch Ansell
Alison Banks-Moore
Tom Bernard
Sarah Bradley
Michael Bruno
Heather Burke
James M. Cadet
Puja Choudhry
Jerry Conaty
Michael Parent Co-Vice Chairperson
SoVonna Day-Goins Co-Secretary
Claudia Dulac Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer
Maggie Riker Co-Vice Chairperson
Maria Maher Co-Secretary
Adam Philipson President & Chief Executive Officer, Ex Officio
Count Basie Center Board of Trustees
Craig Cummings
Lauren Goldfarb
Delisha Grant
Yvonne Grayson
Jason Jurgens
Steve Kaiman
Nancy Karpf
Marshall Knopf
Mario Monello
Mark Rohl
Peter T. Roselle
Matthew J. Saker
Dr. Perry Scaranni
Carol Stillwell
Fran Turner
Joe Wajda
Tom Widener
Darrell Lawrence Willis
Kaye Wise
Edward J. Zipprich
MUSICAL NUMBERS
Mary Poppins takes place in and around the Banks’ household somewhere in London at the turn of the last century.
ACT 1
Prologue .......................................................................................................................... BERT
Cherry Tree Lane (Part 1) .....................................................
WINIFRED, MRS. BRILL, JANE, MICHAEL, ROBERTSON AY, GEORGE
The Perfect Nanny JANE, MICHAEL
Cherry Tree Lane (Part 2) .....................................................
WINIFRED, MRS. BRILL, JANE, MICHAEL, ROBERTSON AY, GEORGE
Practically Perfect MARY POPPINS, JANE, MICHAEL
All Me Own Work ........................................................................................................... BERT
Jolly Holiday...................................................................... BERT, JANE, MICHAEL, NELEUS, MARY POPPINS, ENSEMBLE
Let’s Hope She Will Stay ........................................ GEORGE, WINIFRED, JANE, MICHAEL
Winds Do Change BERT
A Spoonful of Sugar .......................................................
MARY POPPINS, JANE, MICHAEL, ROBERTSON AY, WINIFRED
Spoonful (Playoff) WINIFRED
Precision and Order ............................................................................. CLERKS, CHAIRMAN, VON HUSSLER, NORTHBROOK
A Man Has Dreams .................................................................................................. GEORGE
Feed the Birds .....................................................................
BIRD WOMAN, MARY POPPINS
Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious MARY POPPINS, BERT, JANE, MICHAEL, MRS. CORRY, CUSTOMERS
The Winds May Blow .............................................................................. BERT, CUSTOMERS
Twists and Turns BERT
Playing the Game .......................................................
MARY POPPINS, VALENTINE, DOLL, TEDDY BEAR PUNCH, TOYS
Chim Chim Cher-ee ............................................................................. BERT, MARY POPPINS
Mary Poppins will be performed with one 15-minute intermission.
ACT 2
Cherry Tree Lane..........................................................
MRS. BRILL, ROBERTSON AY, JANE, MICHAEL, WINIFRED, GEORGE
Brimstone and Treacle (Part 1) ..................................................................... MISS ANDREW
Let’s Go Fly a Kite ..............................................................
BERT, PARK KEEPER, MICHAEL, JANE, KITE FLYERS, MARY POPPINS
Good for Nothing /Being Mrs. Banks ................................................. GEORGE, WINIFRED
Brimstone and Treacle (Part 2)
MARY POPPINS, MISS ANDREW
Practically Perfect (Reprise)............................................ JANE, MICHAEL, MARY POPPINS
Step in Time ...................................................................... BERT, MICHAEL, JANE, SWEEPS, MARY POPPINS
Down the Chimney ......................................................................................... BERT, SWEEPS
A Man Has Dreams (Reprise) / A Spoonful of Sugar GEORGE, BERT
Anything Can Happen (Part 1) ......................................
MARY POPPINS, JANE, MICHAEL, WINIFRED, BIRD WOMAN
Give Us the Word GEORGE
Anything Can Happen (Part 2) ............................
MARY POPPINS, BERT, JANE, MICHAEL
A Spoonful of Sugar (Reprise) ..................................................................... MARY POPPINS Bows COMPANY
WARNING: This production of Mary Poppins contains the use of strobe lighting effects. The use of any recording device, either audio or video, and the taking of photographs, either with or without flash, is prohibited. Please turn off all electronic devices such as cellular phones, tablets, beepers, and watches. The use of cell phones in the theater is prohibited.
2024/2025 SEASON SPONSORS
Courtyard by Marriott - Red Bank/Lincroft
The Law Firm of Jonathan D’Agostino & Associates - Jon & Jade D’Agostino World Subaru - Joe & Nicole Wajda
MARY POPPINS SHOW SPONSOR: Fitz and the P.E.A.
PHOENIX PRODUCTIONS
2024/2025 SEASON DONORS
RISING STAR LEVEL: $500-$999
Professor Chris Adamo, Joseph Ercolino, Maryann Larkin, The Thorner Family, Diane Tresente
FAN LEVEL: Up to $249
Dianne Asay, In memory of Al Bevacqua, The Boyko Family, Jane Cybulski, William & Ann Emery, Judith & William Fraser, Gloria Friedman, Kenneth Groeschel, Rita LaBrecque, Leanne Lasko, Bridgette Markuson, Carolyn McCarthy, The Mele/Declarations Family, Nancy Merkel - In memory of Marie Elizabeth Corke, Donna Pinamonti, The Press Family, The Rainone Family, Barbara Saake, Richard Scott
STARS ON PHOENIX’S “WALK OF DREAMS”
Todd Aikens, Andrea Andrews Zawadzky, Matthew Blankley, Grace Brancato, Brothers Commercial Brokerage, The Brown Family, Chloe Carone, Erin O’Malley Chiaravalloti, Sarah Coleman, Liz & Randy Cooper, Sophie Creed, The Cullen Family, The D’Agostino Family, Mike & Betty Ann Dalberg, Bobby Davis, Lily DelPresto, In Memory of Mildred & Patrick DeLuca, Tina & Mike DeVito, Denise DiBona DDS, The Dobbs Family, Hudson Eder & Jo Wymer Music Studios, Joe Ercolino & Melvin Polisher, FILCO Red Bank
Immediate Care Medical Walk-In & CEO Sal Cannizzaro, In Memory of Jakob Franke, Bob Fuller, Carmen Gemellaro, Kayla Goins, Jennifer Grasso, James Grausam, Anthony Greco, Keegan Robert Haack, Holly Hankins & Family, Don & Lois Heirman, Thomas K. Hessman, Taylor Nicole Kaplan, Nancy Karpf, Fran Centofante Katz, Sydney & Jason Katz, Zoe & Molly Kenney, George & Kelly Kerrick, The Kinneman Family, The LaRue Family, James, Kathleen & Patrick Marhold, The Martini Family, In Loving Memory of Pat Mercandetti, The Monteleone Family, Jillian Mueller, Scott Naef, The Nodes Family, Don Olah Hair/Wigs, Alexa Origlio, Christine Paccillo, Wayne, Daniel & Marisa Peck, The Pennington Family, Joanne Penrose, Red Oak Mortgage, The Regan Family, Remember Jones, Lily Grace Riddle, Kara Robertelli, Harper Robinson, The Robinson Family, The Scherzo Family, Haley & Chris Schmalbach, Thomas Scove, The Sheftel Family, Carl Sterling Smith, Jack & Joyce Sica, The Stefanelli Family, The Thorner Family, Mary Jo Tort-Bergeron, Carol Wade, The Wagar Family, Ellen & Michael Walsh, Amanda Winter, Lindsay Wood, Chip & Ilda Wood, World Subaru
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
MARIA HEITMANN (Mary Poppins) (she/her) is excited to return to Cherry Tree Lane as the titular character after flying away eight years ago. This is Maria’s first role with Phoenix Productions and she is humbled by this opportunity. A Theatre Artist in NYC/ DC/NJ, she is a Director at DC’s Nu Sass Productions. Credits include: Joseph… Dreamcoat (Narrator; Algonquin Arts Theatre), Oklahoma! (Laurey; Premier Theatre Company), Importance… Earnest (Gwendolen; OCCRTC), Taming... Shrew (Katherina; OCCRTC), and DC’s 2021 Monologue Madness Champion. Maria thanks her loved ones and all at Phoenix. She dedicates this to “her Mary,” Karin, and to Opa: “Take care.” VCL. Contact: missheitmann@gmail.com
MICHAEL DALY (Bert) is thrilled to be returning to the Basie for a third time with Phoenix Productions! Recent credits include: West Side Story (Action; Phoenix Productions) & In the Heights (Graffiti Pete; Phoenix Productions), as well as Fiddler on the Roof (Avram/Ft. Dancer; Axelrod PAC). Michael is an original songwriter & producer, and a graduate of Montclair State University (2024). He has over 10 years of competitive gymnastics training from Monmouth Gymnastics Academy, during which he received a 1st place national medal. He is so grateful for his family and friends’ continued support and is excited to take his skills to new heights in Mary Poppins! Instagram: @michaeldaly__
JOSEPH DeMAIO (George Banks) is thrilled to be bringing “Precision & Order” to the Count Basie stage in his 5th show with Phoenix Productions! He is a proud graduate of Wagner College with a BA in Theatre/Speech. Recent credits include: Jekyll & Hyde (Dr. Henry Jekyll/Edward Hyde), Guys and Dolls (Nathan Detroit), Next to Normal (Dan Goodman), Crazy for You (Bela Zangler), and You Can’t Take it With You (Paul Sycamore). He would like to thank this amazing cast and wonderful production team for making this such a fantastic experience! He would also like to thank his family and friends for their continued love & support!
AMY POLIZZI (Winifred Banks) is thrilled to be back with her Phoenix family after last being seen in The Music Man. She’d like to thank her parents for always supporting her; Rubin for always encouraging her to follow her dreams; and to B, A, and E (who finally get to see their stepmom perform where Papa proposed), keep playing the games and growing in your artistic endeavors - so proud of you. THANK YOU to the incredible production team - we appreciate you! “We are all made of the same stuff, remember…we are all one, all moving to the same end.” - P.L. Travers
PERSEPHONE (PERSY) ARCEMENT (Jane Banks)
This is Persy’s second show with Phoenix Productions. After playing Little Girl in Ragtime, it is surreal for her to return to play Jane in Mary Poppins on the Count Basie stage. Phoenix Productions has become her second family, and she is so grateful for the friendships she has forged and opportunities this company has provided her with. This is her 16th show of her musical theatre career. When she isn’t performing, she markets and sells her board game Drizzle that she created when she was 8.
KEEGAN HAACK
(Michael Banks)
is thrilled to return to the Count Basie stage in his sixth Phoenix production. His favorite roles include: Ragtime (Little Boy), where he was honored to win the 2024 Perry Award for Youth Actor in a Musical, The Music Man (Winthrop), A Christmas Carol (Tiny Tim), Mary Poppins (Michael), and Newsies, Jr. (Jack). Keegan is a 7th grader in Holmdel who enjoys making people laugh, singing, and spending time with his amazing family! He thanks the creative team for this incredible opportunity and fellow cast and crew members for yet another fantastic experience! “Anything can happen if you let it!”
MICHAEL ABRAMOV (Robertson Ay) is thrilled to be making his Phoenix Productions debut as Robertson Ay! Growing up with the Russian version of Mary Poppins, he was surprised to find Robertson Ay’s unforgettable song “Thirty-Three Cows” (yes, cows) omitted from the Libretto. So, while Michael won’t be singing about livestock this time around, he is beyond ecstatic to bring his take on a character near and dear to his heart. Previous credits include: Seussical (The Cat in the Hat; Spotlight Players), Into the Woods (Jack; MAC Players), and The Little Mermaid (Scuttle; Pixie Dust Players).
JONES ALMEIDA (Adult Ensemble) is supercalifragilistic to be back with Phoenix Productions for the third time!!! Past Phoenix credits include: The Prom (Ensemble) & Ragtime (Ensemble)! He would like to thank his family and friends for their endless support, as well as Matty, Julia, Jonathan, Fran and James for this amazing opportunity!! He would also love for you to go support him and his friends in his senior year show Curtains the Musical at Holmdel High School, March 13-15, where he’ll be portraying Oscar Shapiro!
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
LORETTA BOYLE
(Mrs. Corry, Adult Ensemble, u/s Winifred Banks)
is always thrilled to perform with Phoenix Productions! Her favorite previous Phoenix roles include: Mama Rose in Gypsy, Deb in Elf and Ensemble in Ragtime. Additional previous roles include: Ilona in She Loves Me with Stone Church Players, Adelaide in Guys and Dolls at both the Spring Lake Theatre and Algonquin Arts Theatre, and M’Lynn in Steel Magnolias with Algonquin Arts Theatre. Loretta is a seventh grade teacher in Toms River, New Jersey and enjoys living at the Jersey Shore. This show is for Brad who makes every day Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!!
DANIEL CANCEL
(Valentine, Adult Ensemble) is happy to return to the Basie stage. He was last seen as Angel in Phoenix Productions’ RENT. Academy of Art University graduate (BFA Acting). Previous credits include: RENT (Angel, Mystic Vision Players); Something Rotten! (Nigel); Little Shop of Horrors (Seymour); In the Heights (Usnavi); I, Too, Sing America (Dancer, Choreographer); Drowsy Chaperone (George); Six Degrees of Separation (Doug); Xanadu (Sonny); A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Fairy).
JO-LEO W. CARNEY-WATERTON (Bank Chairman, Adult Ensemble) is a son and native of Newark, New Jersey who is pleased and thankful to be in yet another show. He was previously seen alongside an all-star lineup of vocalists and performers in Ragtime, Jesus Christ Superstar, and The Color Purple with Phoenix Productions. He also previously appeared alongside a magnificent group of actors in A Soldier’s Play, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, Jitney, and most recently Two Trains Running, all with the illustrious Dunbar Repertory Company. He would like to unreservedly thank his family, especially his mother for continuing to encourage his gifts, his vocal coach Jonathan Rose, Darrell Willis and Mark Henderson, and the amazing Phoenix team.
BENJAMIN CASSANO
(Children’s Ensemble)
is 8 years old and is thrilled and honored to be making his debut performance with Phoenix Productions. He would like to thank Matty, Jonathan, Julia, Fran and Marissa, as well as the entire cast and crew for giving him this opportunity and believing in him! And to his AMAZING support system that are ALWAYS there for him! Some of his past roles include: Beauty & the Beast (Chip; Pivot Theatre Company), Moana Jr. (Ensemble; Axelrod Performing Arts Academy), Annie Jr. (FDR; Count Basie Center Turner Academy of the Arts), Mary Poppins (Ensemble; Pivot Theatre Company), Alice in Wonderland Jr. (King of Hearts; Axelrod Performing Arts Academy), Radio City Music Hall (Show Choir), and Frozen Jr. (Steward; Pivot Theatre Company).
JESSICA COGAN (Miss Andrew, Adult Ensemble) is dusting off her operatic training in her third production with Phoenix. Past roles: The Music Man (Mrs. Paroo; Phoenix Productions), Ragtime (Brigit/Ensemble; Phoenix Productions), Oklahoma! (Aunt Eller; Premier Theatre Company), Into the Woods (Jack’s Mother; MAC Players). Jessica has lived a 40-year career in the arts in various positions, currently as Arts Administrator at Rutgers. When not performing, she fosters kittens for local rescues. Deepest gratitude to everyone affiliated with this production. Love to her husband and kids who they raised to adulthood without resorting to brimstone and treacle. For mom.
KATHLEEN CORKE (Bird Woman, Adult Ensemble)
Phoenix credits: Sound of Music (Mother Abbess), Sweeney Todd (Beggar Woman), Elf (Mrs. Claus), and others. Theatre credits: Camelot (Guinevere), Oklahoma! (Laurey), Carousel (Julie), Carnival (Lili), Forum (Philia), Kiss Me, Kate (Lilly/Kate), Man of La Mancha (Antonia). Opera credits: Hansel and Gretel (Gretel), Les Contes d’Hoffman (Giulietta), The Magic Flute (Queen of the Night cover). When not performing, Kathleen is the assistant to rock musician Willie Nile and enjoys living out her teenage dream of working for a rock band. Love to Jim, Patrick, and her Mom and Dad in heaven.
DARREN DeANGELO (Admiral Boom, Adult Ensemble)
What a privilege, especially for a guy who grew up never watching musicals, to perform such a fun role in this magical classic for my 7th Phoenix production. Thank you to the entire production team and amazing cast for this challenging and rewarding experience!! Prior Phoenix credits: The Music Man (Ewart Dunlop/ Quartet), Guys and Dolls (Arvide), A Christmas Carol (Charity Man), Wizard of Oz (Ensemble), Hunchback of Notre Dame (Choir) & 1776 (George Read).
DANIEL De PIEROLA (Adult Ensemble)
is thrilled to be making his Phoenix Productions debut in Mary Poppins! Working with everyone continues to lift Daniel’s spirit/love for theatre and he is so grateful to be part of this show! Growing up and still to this day, Daniel is his happiest when he is singing and performing! He has big dreams in the musical theatre world that he aspires to achieve. He wants to express his heartfelt gratitude to his family, friends, and Josh for always believing in him! Enjoy the show! Instagram: @daniel.dpier
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
ANTHONY FERRIGNO
(Neleus, Adult Ensemble, u/s Bert) is excited to be back for his 5th production here at Phoenix! Past credits include: West Side Story (Baby John; Phoenix Productions) and All Shook Up (Chad; Villagers Theatre). He has been performing in various shows for the past decade and has dreams of doing this for a living, specifically in TV and Film. He thanks his family and friends for the unconditional support as he follows his dreams. Break a leg to the cast! Instagram: @tonyboy623
TRAVIS GASTON
(Adult Ensemble)
is so excited and so eager to do his 6th show with Phoenix Productions. This show shows the test of character, love and faith. Travis not only deals with that on his own but on stage as well, and he is more than grateful to be doing such a beautiful show with such a beautiful cast as this one. Travis would like to thank not only Phoenix and his family for being by him, but God as well, for always blessing him and giving him these amazing opportunities to pursue.
SIERRA GOODE
(Children’s Ensemble, u/s Jane Banks) is making her debut performance with Phoenix Productions. In the past, Sierra has made 5 appearances with (Brick Children’s Community Theatre) BCCT. Previous credits include: SpongeBob The Musical, Finding Nemo Jr., Countdown to Christmas, Mary Poppins and The Little Mermaid Jr. Her favorite things to do include: cheerleading, track and field and weightlifting. Sierra’s favorite thing about Phoenix Productions is the cast and crew. They have been so nice and welcoming. Thanks to Mom, Dad, and sister Layla for their support.
DAISY INFANTIS
(Children’s Ensemble)
is 12 years old and in 7th grade at Saint Leo the Great School. Some of her favorite performances include: Disney’s Mary Poppins Jr., Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Disney’s Moana Jr., Once Upon a Mattress, Matilda, Annie Jr., and The Wizard of Oz. She is excited to be back at the Count Basie in this whimsical production. She has performed one other time with Phoenix in The Wizard of Oz in Spring 2022. She credits Phoenix for having helped shape her into the performer she is today and is grateful to be back.
SEAN KEARNS
(Von Hussler, Policeman, Adult Ensemble)
is thrilled to make his Phoenix debut! Recent credits include: School of Rock (Adult Ensemble; Playhouse 22) and Legally Blonde (Nikos/Lowell; MAC Players). Sean is a member of Monmouth County’s New Jersey Chamber Singers and has a BS in Computer Engineering from Rutgers University. Forever grateful to Mom, Dad, Lizzy, friends and family for their constant love and support. “Let’s seize this chance!”
KYLE KENNEDY
(Northbrook, Park Keeper, Adult Ensemble)
is thrilled to be in his 12th Phoenix Productions’ show! He was recently in White Christmas as Scooter/Ensemble this past December at The Algonquin Arts Theatre. Favorite shows/roles include: The Prom (Sheldon; Phoenix Productions) and Ragtime (Ensemble; Phoenix Productions). Kyle is a high school English teacher at Long Branch High School and an adjunct professor at Montclair State University. Kyle wishes to thank Matty, the entire production team of Mary Poppins, as well as his friends, and family for their constant love and support.
MICHELLE ELAINE LUCEY
(Miss Lark, Adult Ensemble) is delighted to be part of this exemplary production, in a story so dear to her heart. She was last seen as Nellie in Spring Lake’s Jekyll & Hyde. Favorite credits include: [Ragtime (Mother), The Addams Family (Alice Beineke), The Music Man (Marian Paroo), School of Rock (Rosalie Mullins); Phoenix Productions], Something Rotten! (Bea; MPO), [Spelling Bee (Rona Lisa), Man of La Mancha (Aldonza); Curtain Call, FL], The Fantasticks (Luisa; A.C.T., FL), and Chicago (Velma Kelly; IRSC). She studied musical theatre at IRSC and enjoys playing guitar, baking, hanging with her pup Hugo, and amateur long-distance running. Enjoy the show!
DANA JILL MALEY
(Katie Nanna, Miss Smythe, Adult Ensemble) is thrilled to be in her third Phoenix production at the Count Basie Center. Previous shows include: The Addams Family (Ancestor) & The Prom (Olivia Keating/Parent). One of her favorite things about performing in a show with Phoenix Productions is the sense of community and the undeniable warmth and talent of the people on stage and behind the scenes. A big thank you to the fabulous production crew, director (Matty Price), & our fellow cast members; she learned SO much from all of you. She also would like to thank her friends & family for all their support as she continues to chase her lifelong passion for theatre!
JULIA MONSEY
(Assistant Choreographer, Dance Captain, Adult Ensemble) is honored to return for show #4 with Phoenix, having recently performed in West Side Story earlier this season, and Ragtime and The Prom last season. Originally from St. Louis, she grew up performing with Saint Louis Ballet and eventually moved to NYC, getting the opportunity to perform Fosse and Ailey repertoire. She is happy to call Phoenix home, and even more immensely grateful for director Matty Price; thank you for being an amazing mentor! To the Monsey Cult: thank you for letting me reach for the stars.
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
MICHELLE MOUGHAN
(Adult Ensemble)
is pumped to be in her first Phoenix production! Mary Poppins has always been special: it was while playing Jane Banks ten years ago that she decided to make this her life-long career. Follow where this decision has taken her on Instagram: @mishmou77. THANK YOU to the production team, cast, and crew for their positive energy and work ethic; to Julia for bringing me to audition; to family and friends for their encouragement; and to my parents’ unwavering support being the constant reminder that “anything can happen if you let it!” For Kevin. AMDG.
AMANDA MUNICE
(Mrs. Brill)
is thrilled to be back on the Basie stage with so many friends - old and newin this wonderful production! When she isn’t on stage, she can be found singing, dancing, and creating art with her students at Cambridge Park Elementary School, Matawan; running Coastal Melodies Music Together (coastalmelodies. com); reading; crafting; sea glass hunting; and enjoying family time. Thanks to the entire Poppins team for yet another “practically perfect” theatrical experience! Love to Justin, Mariella, Mom, and Dad ALWAYS! “Anything can happen if you let it!”
RACHEL ELIZABETH ROSARIO
(Fannie, Adult Ensemble)
is so thrilled to be in her 3rd show at Phoenix Productions and to be a part of the Mary Poppins’ cast. Rachel is from Staten Island, a recent college graduate, and is in her first year of teaching! It brings Rachel pure joy that she gets the opportunity to dance and delight herself in her passion. She feels blessed to have her loved ones supporting her throughout her journey and she looks forward to all that’s to come! Proverbs 16:9
JOSEPH SERZAN
(Children’s Ensemble, u/s Michael Banks)
is stepping onto the Count Basie stage for the first time in this “practically perfect” production. He is so proud to be a part of this supercalifragilistic cast and crew. Joseph was most recently seen in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Children’s Choir; Algonquin Arts Theatre), Fiddler on the Roof (Cheder Boy; Algonquin Arts Theatre) and Beauty and the Beast (LeFou; Howell Middle School South). Thank you to all of his family, friends, teachers and mentors who have helped him continue to believe that “anything can happen if you let it!” Enjoy the show!
ISABELLA SISO (Annie, Adult Ensemble, u/s Mary Poppins)
is so excited to be a part of her second show with Phoenix Productions! Isabella is a graduate of New York University Tisch School of the Arts where she received her Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in Drama. Past credits include: West Side Story (Margarita; Phoenix Productions) and Gypsy (L.A.; The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute). Isabella would like to thank her family and friends for supporting her throughout her artistic journey. Break a leg to the whole cast!! @isabella.siso
ANDREW VIELMA-HALL (Adult Ensemble)
is delighted to be making his Phoenix debut with this magical production that reminds us “anything can happen if you let it!” Thank you to Matty and the Poppins team for this opportunity and to the incredibly talented cast and crew for making it such a fun adventure! Thank you to my family and friends for your love and support! Special shout out to my husband, Rich, for bringing magic and wonder to every day!
ELENA WORTON (Adult Ensemble)
is delighted to be a part of this magical show! Recent credits: Cats (Jennyanydots; Algonquin Arts Theatre), Jesus Christ Superstar (Dance Ensemble; Phoenix Productions), The Music Man (Farmer’s Wife/ Adult Ensemble; Phoenix Productions). Elena is a music and theatre teacher, and she is the current keyboardist/ backup vocalist for local band The Well Wish. She also writes her own music and has three songs out on all streaming platforms. Thank you to the cast, crew and production team, and thank you to Phoenix for always feeling like home! @elenaworton
STEFANIE WORTON (Adult Ensemble)
is thrilled to be back on stage with Phoenix! Recent credits include: Cats (Jemima; Algonquin Arts Theatre), The Prom (Teen Ensemble, u/s Alyssa; Phoenix Productions), and Jesus Christ Superstar (Dance Ensemble; Phoenix Productions). Stefanie recently earned her Associate’s Degree in Audio Production from Brookdale Community College, and currently works for their radio station. Thank you to Phoenix Productions for such an amazing experience, and the cast, crew and production team for their endless dedication to this show!
WHO’S WHO ON THE PRODUCTION TEAM
JAMES MARHOLD (Production Manager)
has been a performer and Production Manager at Phoenix for over 35 years! Production credits include: RENT, In the Heights, Once on This Island, Evita, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, West Side Story, Grease, Legally Blonde, Nice Work, Spring Awakening, Elf, The Wedding Singer, and Songs for a New World. Thanks to Kathy and Patrick for their love and support!
MATTY PRICE (Director/Choreographer) is thrilled to be back at Phoenix for another adventure! Previous Phoenix credits: The Music Man and A Christmas Carol (Choreographer). Recently, Matty was encouraged by his nearest and dearest to dust off his old performer skills and played Barry in The Prom last spring here at the Basie. He is grateful to be directing and choreographing this classic story at such an amazing venue and with the most hard working, dedicated and talented team. He would like to send a huge thank you to his husband Jeff for taking on single parenthood these past few weeks. I love you. To the cast and crew, “my heart is so full and I am honored to have worked with each and every one of you. We found the fun and, *snap*, the job truly became a game.”
JONATHAN MEHL (Music Director) (he/they) is a collector of stories. He is very excited to be telling another story with Phoenix Productions. A musician from an early age, the theatre became his favorite place to tell old stories and collect new ones. He also has experience as a real life chimney sweep. Ask him about it sometime. It’s a good story. All my love to Laura, whose story is forever entwined with mine.
FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ (Production Stage Manager) is excited to be teaming up again with Matty and this amazing Production Team! Fran has been working with Phoenix Productions for almost 30 years, both on stage and behind the scenes. Fran most recently performed as Mrs. Greene in The Prom (Broadway World nomination). Phoenix Stage Management credits include: In the Heights (Perry nomination), Once on This Island, Into the Woods, A Christmas Story, 1776, Little Shop of Horrors and The Pirates of Penzance. Fran would like to thank her ASM’s, Marissa and Ryan for their hard work and unwavering support! Love to Stew, Sydney and Jason.
RYAN ALGER (Assistant Production Stage Manager) is happy to be back at Phoenix with this amazing crew. Previous credits include: Evil Dead The Musical, Ragtime, and The Prom (ASM); West Side Story (Props); and RENT (Hair/Makeup). Ryan has a BA in Theatre, with a concentration in Technical Theatre and a minor in Dance from Rider University. This performance is dedicated to RARA. (hi m&d!)
ASHLEY CUSACK
(Co-Scenic Designer/Scenic Charge) is a freelance designer and artist throughout the tri-state area. She holds her MFA in Set Design from Rutgers’ Mason Gross School of the Arts. Since 2007, Ashley has worked in the Phoenix shop mixing paint, building, and dreaming up set pieces to fill the Basie stage. Favorite past Phoenix designs include: Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Once on This Island, Elf, and The Hunchback of Notre Dame. When not designing for the stage, she is busy starting new home projects and keeping up with her seven year old daughter’s imagination.
MARISSA DeVEAU
(Assistant Production Stage Manager) is thrilled to be back at Phoenix after recently playing Anybodys in West Side Story. Marissa is a multi-hyphenate theatre artist and holds a BM in Music Education from Westminster Choir College. Onstage: Mary Poppins (Mary Poppins), Children of Eden (Yonah), Titanic (Kate Mullins), concerts with The Philadelphia Orchestra and
NY Philharmonic. Music Direction: Tuck Everlasting, Mary Poppins, Elf, The Hunchback of Notre Dame Choreography: Elf, Mary Poppins. Marissa is also the Education Coordinator at Algonquin Arts Theatre. Thank you for supporting the arts! 143, Jess Education Coordinator at Algonquin Arts Theatre. Thank
JANNETTE FISHER (Associate Costume Designer) is excited to be the Associate Costume Designer for her first Phoenix production. Graduating from Montclair State University with a BFA in Production Design Management, a minor in Musical Theatre, and a certification in Makeup artistry, she is looking forward to using her skill and talents in TV/Theatre/Film. To collaborate on such a fun show, with such a wonderful team has made this show such a pleasure to work on.
OLIVIA GRAUSAM (Properties) is so excited to be working on this magical show! Recent Phoenix credits include: Ragtime and West Side Story (APM) and The Prom (Props). Olivia is excited to be the Production Manager of the upcoming Peter and the Starcatcher coming this April to The Vogel! She would like to thank the entire team, especially Matty and Fran, her dad and PLC for all the support throughout this show and all the others! Enjoy the show!
JUSTIN CHRISTOPHER ODON (Lighting Designer) is a multi-faceted NJ-based theatre artist that includes: directing, choreography, stage & production management, set, lighting, sound, costume & prop design, theatre education, music direction, and performing. For Phoenix, he has directed The Wizard of Oz (2022), A Christmas Carol The Musical (2022), & The Prom (2024). Justin has been part of Phoenix Productions since 2016. He was the recipient of the 2024 Basie Award for Outstanding Lighting Design of a Musical for Neptune High School’s production of Les Misérables. Justin also works as a musical theatre educator for various performing arts academies and studios in NJ. He is the owner and drummer of The Vibes, NJ’s newest highenergy wedding/function band.
KYLE SANTOPADRE
(Technical Director/Lead Carpenter/Co-Scenic Designer) has a BA in Theatre with a Design concentration from Rowan University. He is the Assistant Technical Director and Lighting Designer for the Count Basie Center for the Arts. Past scenic designs include: In the Heights (Phoenix Productions), Guys and Dolls (Phoenix Productions), Noises Off (Raritan HS) and Hello Dolly! (Capital Productions). Many thanks to a wonderful production team!
ANTHONY VIERA (Associate Production Manager) is thrilled to be working alongside some of his favorite people in this production. Recently seen on stage in RENT, Ragtime, Once on This Island, and Evil Dead, Anthony is proud to have contributed both on stage and behind the scenes in numerous Phoenix productions over the years. As part of the production team, his credits include: The Music Man, The Prom, and The Color Purple. Now, he is excited to help bring the magic of Mary Poppins to life. Anthony extends his heartfelt thanks to the incredible cast, crew, creative team, and production team for their countless hours, passion, and dedication to creating the performance you’re about to enjoy. This and everything I do is for you, Nan you’re about to enjoy. This and everything I do is for you,
JAMES GRAUSAM
(Managing Artistic Director/Costume Designer) has directed several productions for Phoenix at the Count Basie Center for the Arts, including: Fiddler on the Roof, The Full Monty, Miss Saigon, Jesus Christ Superstar, Tommy, The 30th Anniversary Gala, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Songs for a New World, Smokey Joe’s Café, Spring Awakening, Elf, Putting It Together, Evil Dead The Musical, American Idiot, The Music Man, and Bat Boy. He continues to direct other places as time allows. As always, for Olivia.
jpascua@kpedgestone.com
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