Phoenix Productions: The Prom - May 3 & 4

May 3 & 4

THE PROM

Book & Lyrics by CHAD BEGUELIN

Book by BOB MARTIN

Music by MATTHEW SKLAR

Based on an original concept by JACK VIERTEL

Original Broadway Production directed and choreographed by Casey Nicholaw

Originally Produced on Broadway by Bill Damaschke, Dori Berinstein, Jack Lane

James & Catherine Berges, Nelda Sue Yaw, Natasha Davison, Joe Grandy, Kimberlee Garris, Lisa Morris, Terry Schnuck, Jane Dubin, Rosalind Productions, Inc., FAHS Productions, Seth A. Goldstein, Mike Kriak, Don & Nancy Ross, Pamela Hurst-Della Pietra & Stephen Della Pietra, Cliff Hopkins, Masie Productions, Vivek Shah, Three Belles & A Bob, Arment-Tackel, Armstrong-Manocherian, Fakler-Silver, Fox Theatricals-Mosbacher-Lonow, Palitz-Stern-Smedes, Nancy & Ken Kranzberg/David Lyons, Larry & Elizabeth Lenke/Elizabeth L. Green, Iris Smith/InStone Productions, Kuhlman-Ketner/Wallace-ATxRandomProductions, The John Gore Organization and The Shubert Organization (Philip J. Smith: Chairman; Robert E. Wankel: President); Produced in association with Independent Presenters Network, Margot Astrachan, Darren P. DeVerna & Jeremiah J. Harris and Reagan Silber

Scenic Design ASHLEY CUSACK

Lighting Design MARY GARVEY

Production Stage Manager JO WYMER

Choreographer HALEY SCHMALBACH

Production Manager TOM HESSMAN

Costumer JOANNE PENROSE

Sound Design ACIR

Music Director MICHAEL GILCH

Director JUSTIN CHRISTOPHER ODON

THE PROM is presented through special arrangement with and all authorized performance materials are supplied by Theatrical Rights Worldwide 1180 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 640, New York, NY 10036. www.theatricalrights.com

Season Sponsors:

Courtyard by Marriott - Red Bank/Lincroft; The Law Firm of Jonathan D’Agostino & Associates; World Subaru

Production Sponsors:

The Coleman Family; HFA Certified Public Accountants + Advisors; NJ Short Term Rentals

A MESSAGE FROM THE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

As we come to the end of our 35th season, it’s exciting to look back and see all the things Phoenix Productions has accomplished. We’ve had over 5,200 volunteers help us put on 157 productions, hired over 1,400 musicians, and shared musical theater with over 100,000 patrons here in Monmouth County. And we’re still discovering new ground to break and new avenues to pursue. The Prom marks our very first LGBTQ+ themed musical. Oh, sure there have been musicals with queer characters, the 1990s AIDS epidemic, and even a huge production number called “Keep it Gay,” but we’ve never done a musical that focuses on the gay experience. It’s hard to believe that in 2024 we need a musical to help us understand the challenges of facing a world as a queer teenager, but the fact is it’s still rough out there. As recently as last year, a school district forced a high school to cancel their spring musical for fear of the public outcry they’d face. The musical they chose to ban was The Prom. And that school is right here in New Jersey. Thankfully, the school board retracted their cancellation, and the school performed The Prom this spring. I’m extremely grateful for the support of the Count Basie Center, our Chairperson, the entire Board of Trustees, and our President and CEO for championing diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout our entire organization. That means not only does everyone get to participate regardless of how they look or who they love, but it also means we get to tell everyone’s story and celebrate everyone’s uniqueness. We are fortunate for their unwavering support and for yours as well.

Enjoy the show.

James

Managing Artistic Director

Phoenix Productions at the Count Basie Center

Joe Wajda, Executive Manager & Phoenix Operations Co-Chair

THE CAST

(in order of appearance)

Olivia Keating ..................................................................................................... DANA MALEY

Dee Dee Allen CINDY CHAIT

Second Reporter ...............................................................................................DUANE BANKS

Sheldon Saperstein ......................................................................................... KYLE KENNEDY

Barry Glickman .................................................................................................... MATTY PRICE

Angie............................................................................................................. CATHRYN HARDY

Trent Oliver MATT DeMARCO

Emma .......................................................................................................... REBECCA GRODEK

Mrs. Greene ................................................................................... FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ

Mr. Hawkins..................................................................................................KASON JACKSON

Kaylee ................................................................................................................ ESTHER FOSU

Shelby IRLEY VALLEJO

Alyssa ........................................................................................................ KENDALL THORNER

Nick DREW HAYES

Kevin ............................................................................................................. MARK EDELSTEIN

Motel Clerk .......................................................................................................DUANE BANKS

TEEN ENSEMBLE:

JONES ALMEIDA, TRAVIS GASTON, JESSIE HEITMANN, SYDNEY KATZ, JULIA MONSEY, CONNOR NASPO, ARIEL SANCHEZ-BELLO, STEFANIE WORTON

ADULT ENSEMBLE:

DUANE BANKS, SOFIA BARRIONUEVO, LAUREN FRIEDMAN, MARIO L.P. GALLARDO, DANA MALEY, MAX SHERMAN, GABRIEL ANGEL VALLE

UNDERSTUDIES

For Dee Dee Allen - LAUREN FRIEDMAN; For Barry Glickman - GABRIEL ANGEL VALLE; For Angie - SOFIA BARRIONUEVO; For Trent Oliver - MARK EDELSTEIN; For Emma - JESSIE HEITMANN; For Mrs. Greene - DANA MALEY; For Mr. Hawkins - MARIO L.P. GALLARDO; For Alyssa - STEFANIE WORTON.

THE PRODUCTION TEAM

Director.....................................................................................

JUSTIN CHRISTOPHER ODON

Music Director ................................................................................................ MICHAEL GILCH

Choreographer HALEY SCHMALBACH

Production Manager ....................................................................................... TOM HESSMAN

Technical Director / Lead Carpenter ....................................................... KYLE SANTOPADRE

Costumer JOANNE PENROSE

Scenic Design / Scenic Charge ..................................................................... ASHLEY CUSACK

Lighting Design ................................................................................................. MARY GARVEY

Properties ..................................................................................................... OLIVIA GRAUSAM

Sound Design / Engineer .................................................................................................. ACIR

A2 / Sound Crew ......................................................................................... EDDIE DONAHUE

Production Stage Manager .................................................................................... JO WYMER

Assistant Stage Manager RYAN ALGER

Production Assistant ................................................................. FRANCESCA RAE SHALOUM

Deck Chief ................................................................................................... CASEY OKAMOTO

Assistant Production Manager ANTHONY VIERA

Assistant Director ...................................................................................... AMANDA MARINO

Dance Captain .................................................................................................. JULIA MONSEY

Scenic Crew ERICH ARCEMENT, PERSY ARCEMENT, ROZA BLACKWOOD, JESSICA COGAN, GEMMA FORMIGANO, JOANNE FORMIGANO, KIMBERLY GELFAND, FIONA HELLER, JULIET HELLER, GENEVIEVE VANECEK, ELENA WORTON, STEFANIE WORTON

Managing Artistic Director JAMES GRAUSAM

Special Thanks .....................................COUNT BASIE CENTER MARKETING DEPARTMENT, DIANE DiYANNI, MAURER PRODUCTIONS, DENNIS TOLENTINO

THE BAND

Piano/Conductor ............................................................................................ MICHAEL GILCH

Keyboard 2 TEDDY KERNIZAN

Reed 1......................................................................................................... MITCHELL MARTIN

Reed 2................................................................................................................. TESSA DOLCE

Trumpet 1 GARRETT FACCONE

Trumpet 2 .........................................................................................................GABRIEL GILCH

Trombone ....................................................................................................... OSCAR MENDEZ

Guitar (Acoustic, Electric, Banjo) RAY SUHY

Bass (Electric, Acoustic) ........................................................................................ MIKE PARISI

Violin 1 .................................................................................................................HALEY LOPEZ

Violin 2

DANIELLE SINCLAIR

Cello ........................................................................................................ JENN FANTACCIONE

Drums .......................................................................................................... CHRISTIAN LOPEZ

Percussion EMMANUEL SOLANO

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

Jim 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

Mollie Giamanco

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

ACT 1

“Changing Lives” Dee Dee Allen, Barry Glickman, Ensemble

“Changing Lives” (Reprise) ................. Dee Dee Allen, Barry Glickman, Angie, Trent Oliver

“Just Breathe” Emma

“It’s Not About Me” .......... Dee Dee Allen, Barry Glickman, Angie, Trent Oliver, Ensemble

“Dance with You” Emma, Alyssa

“The Acceptance Song” ..... Trent Oliver, Dee Dee Allen, Barry Glickman, Angie, Ensemble

“You Happened” Emma, Alyssa, Ensemble

“We Look to You” ................................................................................................Mr. Hawkins

“Tonight Belongs to You” Barry Glickman, Emma, Mrs. Greene, Ensemble

THE PROM will be performed with one 15 minute intermission.

ACT 2

Entr’acte .................................................................................................................. Orchestra

“Zazz” ................................................................................................................. Angie, Emma

“The Lady’s Improving” .................................................................................. Dee Dee Allen

“Love Thy Neighbor” ......................................................................... Trent Oliver, Ensemble

“Alyssa Greene” ........................................................................................................... Alyssa

“Barry Is Going to Prom” ............................................................................... Barry Glickman

“Unruly Heart” ............................................................................................ Emma, Ensemble

“It’s Time to Dance” Emma, Alyssa, Company

Warning: Please be aware that The Prom contains strobe lighting and theatrical haze.

The use of any recording device, either audio or video, and the taking of photographs, either with or without flash, is strictly 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.

2023/2024 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

THE PROM Production Sponsors:

The Coleman Family; HFA Certified Public Accountants + Advisors; NJ Short Term Rentals

PHOENIX PRODUCTIONS

2023/2024 SEASON DONORS

ANGEL LEVEL: $1000-$1999

Joseph Ercolino/Charles Schwab

RISING STAR LEVEL: $500-$999

Kimberly Gelfand, The Lopes Family, Diane Tresente, The Wood Family

PATRON LEVEL: $250-$499

Amy Adamo, Izzy Sackowitz

FAN LEVEL: Up to $249

Stephanie Ackerman, Joyce Barnett, Susan Barschow, Alfred Bevaqua, Nancy Cavaliere, Elaine Donovan, Ellen Easton, William & Judith Fraser, Eric Klings, Rita LaBrecque, Rose Marie Larkin, Donna Pinamonte, The Seasholtz Family, Red Bank Smiles, Charles Rodman, Barbara Saake, George Weiss

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

JONES ALMEIDA

(Teen Ensemble)

is so excited to be in his second Phoenix Productions show!!! He is thrilled to be part of such a fun and exciting show! Recent credits include: Ragtime (Immigrant Ensemble), Little Women (Mr. John Brooke), Guys and Dolls (Mission Band/Crapshooter), The SpongeBob Musical (Ensemble), The Addams Family (Pugsley), and Seussical (Who Ensemble). He is a Junior at Holmdel High School and is part of the Holmdel Theatre Guild, and also servies on their board. He hopes you have a wonderful time watching this amazing show! Instagram/Facebook: @jonessalmeida

DUANE BANKS

(Second Reporter, Motel Clerk, Adult Ensemble) is so excited to join this stellar cast of The Prom! Duane is a NYC/NJbased performer. Off Broadway: Two Gentlemen of Verona, Little Princess. Local/Regional: Ragtime (Coalhouse Walker, Jr.), Beauty and The Beast (Beast), Once on This Island (Ensemble), In the Heights (Ensemble). TV/Film: Sandy and Source. He also serves as the Co-Founder of the Inspired Tomorrow. @_duanebanks

SOFIA BARRIONUEVO (Adult Ensemble, u/s Angie)

is excited to return to the Count Basie stage after recently playing Daniela in In the Heights. Favorite credits include: A Bronx Tale (Rosina) and Urinetown (Little Sally). Offstage, you can find the Jersey native working on her Etsy business (Monina Studio) or doing background work for TV/film. She would like to thank the production team for this opportunity, the cast & crew for making this experience so memorable, and her family & friends for their continued support!

CINDY CHAIT

(Dee Dee Allen) is thrilled to be making her Phoenix Productions debut! Regional theatre credits include: Into the Woods (The Witch; Eagle Theatre), Assassins (Emma Goldman; Eagle Theatre), and Sister Act (u/s Sister Mary Theresa, The Walnut Street Theatre). Other credits Cindy considers favorites are: Man of La Mancha (Aldonza, Algonquin Arts Theatre), Kiss Me, Kate (Kate, Algonquin Arts Theatre), and Mamma Mia! (Tanya, Plays in the Park). Cindy is a wife and mom who teaches theatre to kids. She is also an avid reader, jigsaw puzzle enthusiast, and mommy of two beagles!

MATT DeMARCO (Trent Oliver) is thrilled to be back on stage with Phoenix after recently taking part in their gala production of Jesus Christ Superstar (Annas). After seeing several of his students in a HS production of The Prom, Matt was inspired to audition and can’t wait to bring this heartwarming story to more. Past credits include: Viking Cruises (Principal Vocalist), Passion of Verismo (Opera at Florham Park), and many more. He runs Jersey Shore Vocals, and teaches at Montclair Music. He also manages a moving company, Certified Relocation Solutions, with his cousin. This marks Matt’s 20th year performing with Phoenix, so a huge thanks to all those involved in that time for the instruction, opportunity, and community you’ve provided. “BUILD A PROM FOR EVERYONE!”

MARK EDELSTEIN

(Kevin, u/s Trent Oliver) is flamboyantly ecstatic to be returning to Phoenix for his fourth production. His credits include: Ragtime (Featured Ensemble/Swing; Phoenix Productions), Dogfight (Bernstein; Main Street), Spring Awakening (Melchior; Rose Nagelberg Theatre), Footloose (Shaw; The John Cullum Theatre), and Legally Blonde (Warner; Miles Square). Mark holds a B.S. in Music Education and is a music teacher. He’d love to thank his friends, family, his boyfriend, Dakota, and the incredible company of The Prom!

ESTHER FOSU (Kaylee) is excited to be making her Phoenix debut as Kaylee in The Prom! Esther frequently did shows at Matawan Regional High School, and loves to travel and write. She’d like to thank God and the amazing cast and production team. Enjoy The Prom!

LAUREN FRIEDMAN

(Adult Ensemble, u/s Dee Dee Allen) is thrilled to be back on stage with Phoenix after nearly a year, having last been seen as Eulalie Mackecknie Shinn in The Music Man this past July. Other credits include: Fiddler on the Roof (Grandma Tzeitel), Elf (Deb), The Bridges of Madison County (Marge), and Xanadu (Calliope). When not on stage, Lauren teaches preschool and loves to bake. Much love to Lex, Ani, Sierra, and Liam, and a million thanks to the production staff!

MARIO L.P. GALLARDO

(Adult Ensemble, u/s Mr. Hawkins) is excited to be back for his 4th Phoenix Productions show (Joseph…, Mamma Mia!, Elf). In real life, he has a busy Internal Medicine practice. He is also extremely proud to have made his Broadway CoProducing debut (Marikit Ventures) in 2023 for the groundbreaking, immersive musical Here Lies Love. Much love to his lovely wife Dr. Rose and his talented kids, Kathleen (On/Off Broadway Stage Management) and MG (Medical Physicist). VCL

WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST

TRAVIS GASTON

(Teen Ensemble)

is very optimistic to share the stage with such an incredible and beautiful cast as this one. This will be Travis’s fourth Phoenix show, having just closed up Ragtime, and he is now making his way to Indiana to build a prom! Travis would like to take a moment and thank God and the amazing production staff for giving him this opportunity to do what he loves and does best.

REBECCA GRODEK

(Emma)

is thrilled to be making her Phoenix debut as Emma Nolan! This past summer she attended a four-week musical theater intensive at The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts, where she was awarded a scholarship. She also won a Basie Award for her role in Les Misérables. Offstage, she’s all about thrifting and half apps! Big thanks to the crew for this beautiful storytelling opportunity, and to her loved ones for their constant support!

CATHRYN HARDY

(Angie)

is thrilled to be working with Phoenix Productions once again. She’s had the best experience with this talented, funny, wonderful cast and crew. When not on stage, she is usually running, continuing a daily run streak for over 5 years, while gearing up to run the NYC Marathon this fall! She hopes that will distract her from the fact that her son will be heading off to college in the fall!

DREW HAYES (Nick)

is a singer/songwriter and actor based in NYC. Originally from Des Moines, Iowa, he moved east to pursue a career in music and theatre. He has released numerous singles and a full length LP, and gigs around New York. In his embryonic musical theatre career, Drew has played roles including Bobby in Company and Jimmy Ray in Bright Star. He would like to thank his friends and family for their never-ending love and support.

JESSIE HEITMANN

(Teen Ensemble, u/s Emma) attends Middletown High School North and plans to further her theatre education as a Musical Theatre major at DeSales University in the fall. She couldn’t be more ecstatic to be in the ensemble of Phoenix Productions’ The Prom! Some of her recent credits include: Matilda (Miss Honey; Count Basie Center Academy of the Arts), The Crucible (Mary Warren; Middletown High School North Performing Arts Department), Les Misérables (Cosette; MHSN), The Lightning Thief (Silena Beauregard; Pegasus Productions), It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play (Mary Hatch; MHSN), and Young Frankenstein (Elizabeth Benning; MHSN).

KASON JACKSON (he/him)

(Mr. Hawkins)

couldn’t be more thrilled to finally return to the stage after 10 years. Kason was previously the Director of Vocal Music at Carteret High School, where he created and developed an award-winning choral program. In addition, he was musical director for eight of their productions. This year, Kason became an Assistant Principal at Ocean Township HS. Still passionate about the arts, Kason is frequently hired to sing for different occasions and serves as the NJ ACDA President-Elect. Break a leg to the cast and crew!

FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ

(Mrs. Greene)

is thrilled to be returning to the Basie stage after last appearing 19 years ago in Phoenix Productions’ The Scarlet Pimpernel. Some of Fran’s favorite roles include: Noises Off! (Poppy), Into the Woods (Little Red), Cinderella (Fairy Godmother), Daughters (Cetta), and 1776 – All Women’s Version (Roger Sherman). When not on stage, Fran enjoys baking and watching football. Fran is grateful for the opportunity to work with such a talented cast and production team, but most importantly to finally share the stage with her daughter, Sydney!

SYDNEY KATZ

(Teen Ensemble)

is a senior at Marlboro HS and is so excited to be involved in her 8th Phoenix production! Previous shows: Chicago (Roxie Hart; Marlboro HS Theatre Society), Hello Dolly! (Minnie Fay; Algonquin Arts Theatre), and A Chorus Line (Connie MacKenzie; Spring Lake Theatre Company). She’d like to thank the production team for the great experience and for the opportunity to dance with you all!

KYLE KENNEDY

(Sheldon Saperstein)

is thrilled to be in his tenth Phoenix Productions show! He was recently in Ragtime this past March. Kyle is a high school English teacher at Long Branch High School and an adjunct professor at Montclair State University. Kyle wishes to thank the production team of The Prom, friends, and family for their constant love and support.

DANA MALEY

(Olivia Keating, Adult Ensemble, u/s Mrs. Greene)

is beyond thrilled to be in her second Phoenix Productions show at the Count Basie Center for the Arts! Dana would like to thank the fabulous production team, cast, and crew for making The Prom such an amazing experience. And, she is so grateful for her family and friends’ continued support of her theatrical endeavors. Enjoy the show!!

WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST

JULIA MONSEY

(Teen Ensemble, Dance Captain)

is thrilled to be back at Phoenix for the second time this season after having so much fun in Ragtime! A St. Louis native, she grew up training and performing with St. Louis Ballet, and additionally made her professional musical theater debut as Lina Darling in New Line Theater’s Nine. She graduated from Steps on Broadway’s Conservatory, where she performed rep pieces such as Fosse’s Rich Man’s Frug and Mosley’s Rain on Your Head. One ping only, Monsey cult <3

CONNOR NASPO

(Teen Ensemble)

is a Junior in the FPAC acting program at Howell High School, and this is his sixth Phoenix production. He is looking to pursue theatre through college. Outside of theatre, he enjoys being a soccer goalie. Some favorite past credits include: Midsummer Jersey (Lyle), Matilda (Michael), Guys and Dolls (Crapshooter/ Mission Band), The Music Man (u/s Tommy Djilas/Dance Ensemble). Big thanks to his vocal coach Jo Wymer, his family, and cast mates. @connor_naspo_official (Instagram)

MATTY PRICE

(Barry Glickman)

is thrilled to be here today doing what he truly loves after a long hiatus from the stage. Most recently, Matty has been behind the scenes, choreographing and directing musical theatre in NJ. The last major role Matty performed was Barfee in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee over 10 years ago! Matty is proud, blessed, and grateful to be living his most authentic and rewarding life alongside his husband and their two beautiful daughters. Lives like his are only possible because of brave people who stood up to adversity like the characters in our show tonight. Telling a story like this is a dream come true. Love to ALL my family and friends.

ARIEL SANCHEZ-BELLO (Teen Ensemble) is so ecstatic to be returning to the Basie stage with Phoenix! Previous Phoenix credits include: The Addams Family (Conquistador Ancestor), Ragtime (Harlem Ensemble), and Jesus Christ Superstar (James Alphaeus). Ariel would love to thank Celsius for keeping him alive during this back to back rehearsal period, but not NJ Transit. “Enjoy the show!”

MAX SHERMAN (Adult Ensemble) is thrilled beyond words to be a part of his sixth Phoenix production, working with an ensemble of amazing artists. He is a recent alumnus of Fairleigh Dickinson University, as well as a professional vocal coach. His most recent credits include: Jesus Christ Superstar (Apostle Thomas; Phoenix Productions), Into The Woods (Milky White; Premier Theatre Company), and Matilda (Rudolpho; Premier Theatre Company). This show holds a special place in his heart as it shines a light on how special and beautiful the LGBTQ+ community is. As always, many thanks and love to the cast, the production team, and his family and friends.

KENDALL THORNER (Alyssa) is thrilled to have been cast as Alyssa Greene in Phoenix Productions’ The Prom! This year she is graduating high school and will study musical theatre in college. Having recently played Wednesday Addams with Phoenix at The Basie, she thanks James Grausam, Justin Christopher Odon, Jo Wymer, and the entire Phoenix family for their endless support and encouragement over the years. She also thanks the crew and the amazing cast for such a wonderful experience. She hopes you enjoy the show as much as she enjoys performing in it!

GABRIEL ANGEL VALLE (they/them) (Adult Ensemble, u/s Barry Glickman) is so honored to be a part of this production. Their credits include: In the Heights (Piragüero; Phoenix Productions & CDC), The Addams Family (Uncle Fester; NJCU) and more. Gabriel is truly happy that you get to see them be a new mother, a heteronormative father, and a non-equity performer in this production. Gabriel dedicates these performances to those who didn’t get the chance to go to prom with the person that they loved. This is for you.

IRLEY VALLEJO

(Shelby) is excited to return to the Basie stage as Shelby in The Prom with an amazingly kind team and cast! Her most recent credits include: Jesus Christ Superstar (Soul Girl, Dance Ensemble), Carmela Full of Wishes (Carmela), Something Like a Fairytale (Butterfly, Dance Captain), and In the Heights (Yolanda). She would like to give a huge thank you to God, Bernie, Ayden, Mom, Dad, and all those who support her. Now, it’s time to dance! @elita2496 irleyvallejo.com

STEFANIE WORTON (Teen Ensemble, u/s Alyssa) is so grateful to be back at Phoenix Productions for The Prom! Past Phoenix shows include: School of Rock, The Music Man, and Jesus Christ Superstar. Stefanie is currently in her last semester at Brookdale Community College studying Audio Production, and she has spent the last few months interning at 90.5 The Night. Thank you to everyone involved in this special production!!

WHO’S WHO ON THE PRODUCTION TEAM

JUSTIN CHRISTOPHER ODON (Director)

is a multi-faceted NJ-based theatre artist who has worked in directing, choreography, stage & production management, set, lighting, sound, costume & prop design, theatre education, music direction, and performing. This show marks Justin’s third production in the director’s seat for Phoenix’s mainstage productions. The past two shows he has directed for Phoenix are The Wizard of Oz (2022) and A Christmas Carol The Musical (2022). Having been part of Phoenix since 2015 as a volunteer in the scene shop and backstage, Justin is delighted to have grown and continue to grow with Phoenix. Justin Christopher is the founder and artistic director of Theatre@Home and Junior Theatre Productions (JTP). He has worked on many productions in the Monmouth/Ocean County area and is recognized for his dedicated work in helping young theatre artists to create and grow. As a performing arts educator, Justin works for many performing arts academies, schools, dance studios, and private studios to help young artists develop their performance skills. A few show credits include: A Chorus Line, In the Heights, Disney’s Descendants: The Musical, Chicago, The Wizard of Oz, and A Christmas Carol The Musical.

MICHAEL GILCH (Music Director / Conductor) is a versatile Asbury Park-based musician, composer, and arranger. He has played in Broadway pits, Village jazz clubs, and conducted pit orchestras in many NYC/ NJ regional theaters and universities. He is delighted to MD and conduct his first show with Phoenix Productions. Thanks to James for the opportunity, Justin and Haley for the creativity, and love to Bertie -- who was thrice his prom date -- and will be for any weird future adult proms.

HALEY SCHMALBACH (Choreographer) has been making rounds through the New Jersey community theatre scene for some time, and is excited to be at Phoenix! Favorite recent credits include: Matilda, Something Rotten!, Cabaret, and Seussical. Big shout out to my amazing husband and little Elora for letting Mommy go to PROM!

TOM HESSMAN (Production Manager)

is a lifelong theatergoer, and spent 15 years on the media crew for Staples Players (Westport, CT) before fully transitioning to the New Jersey community theatre scene. In addition to seeing shows all around NJ, Tom loves volunteering in various capacities. Tom had a brief walk-on role in Phoenix’s 2019 production of Young Frankenstein as one of the hangmen, and Phoenix hasn’t been able to get rid of him since! Favorite credits include: Jesus Christ Superstar, A Doll’s House, American Idiot, Evil Dead The Musical, Carrie The Musical, and Spring Awakening. Tom also serves on the Phoenix Operations Committee, and as a board member at Exit 82 Theatre (Toms River, NJ). Tom would like to thank his Phoenix family, his incredible friends, and his wonderful sister Kat. TomHessman.com

RYAN ALGER (Assistant Stage Manager) is thrilled to be back for her third show with Phoenix Productions! Recent credits include: Always Patsy Cline (Asbury Park Theatre Company), The Who’s Rock Album TOMMY starring Remember Jones (Axelrod Performing Arts Center), Evil Dead The Musical (Phoenix Productions), and Ragtime (Phoenix Productions). Thank you to the Phoenix family for always being so kind and welcoming. (Hi M&D!)

ASHLEY CUSACK (Scenic Design / 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 six year old daughter’s imagination.

AMANDA MARINO (Assistant Director) is thrilled to be part of her 6th Phoenix show. When not at the theatre, Amanda is working for A+E TV Networks and playing music around NJ. She recently wrote/directed/ produced the short film That’s When the Music Died Amanda thanks Justin for being a great leader and for trusting her throughout. Amanda thanks the production team and the cast for continuing to let her do what she loves. She also wants to thank her mom, family, and friends for their support. “Enjoy the show.”

JOANNE PENROSE (Costumer) is a retired middle school FACS teacher and is happy to have more time to work on Phoenix productions. She has costumed many shows in her 12 years with Phoenix and is looking forward to many more. Enjoy the show.

WHO’S WHO ON THE PRODUCTION TEAM

KYLE SANTOPADRE (Technical Director / Lead Carpenter) has a BA in Theatre with a Design concentration from Rowan University. After college, Kyle worked for Royal Caribbean as Technical Stage Staff on board the Oasis of the Seas (CATS, Frozen In Time, Come Fly With Me, Oasis of Dreams). He is currently the Assistant Technical Director and Lighting Designer for The Count Basie Center for the Arts. Past designs include: Spring Awakening, A Chorus Line, The Wizard of Oz (Phoenix Productions), Hello, Dolly! (Capital Productions), and Noises Off (Raritan High School). Many thanks to a wonderful production team!

FRANCESCA RAE SHALOUM (Production Assistant) is so excited to have worked on this show! Her plans include graduation from MHSN and attending SUNY Purchase in the fall for a BFA in Stage Management! Former credits include: Young Frankenstein (SM; MHSN), It’s a Wonderful Life (SM; MHSN), The Lightning Thief (ASM; Pegasus Productions) Les Misérables (ASM; MHSN), and The Crucible (SM; MHSN).

ANTHONY VIERA (Assistant Production Manager) Thank you for coming to The Prom with us! You might recognize Anthony from some of his onstage appearances in several Phoenix shows through the years; most recently: Ragtime, Once on This Island, and Evil Dead The Musical. Anthony is so happy to be on the other side of the table again after working as the Assistant Director on last season’s The Music Man. Break legs, everyone. The night belongs to YOU! This and everything I do is for you, Nan <3.

JO WYMER (Production Stage Manager) is elated to be returning to Phoenix Productions as the Production Stage Manager of The Prom. Recent Phoenix Production credits: Ragtime (Properties, Deck Chief), Once on This Island (Properties, Deck Chief), In the Heights (Assistant Production Manager), Guys and Dolls (Production Stage Manager), Evil Dead The Musical (Production Stage Manager), and The Wizard of Oz (Assistant Stage Manager). Jo is a two-time AMA award winner and two-time Grammy nominee for her original music written for TV and Film. Jo was recently recognized as one of the leading teaching artists by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts for 2023. Much love to Dan, Hudson, and Saydee. @jowymermusic or jowymer.com

AUTHOR BIOGRAPHIES

CHAD BEGUELIN (Book and Lyrics)

is a four-time Tony nominee whose works include Disney’s Aladdin (Tony Award nomination for Best Book and Best Original Score, Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Lyrics and Best Book) and The Wedding Singer (Tony Award nomination for Best Book and Best Original Score, Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Lyrics). He also wrote the lyrics for the Broadway musical Elf. Chad is the recipient of the Edward Kleban Award for Outstanding Lyric writing, the Jonathan Larson Performing Arts Foundation Award, the Gilman & Gonzalez-Falla Musical Theater Award, and the ASCAP Foundation Richard Rodgers New Horizon Award. Chad is a graduate of New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts Graduate Dramatic Writing Program.

BOB MARTIN (Book)

has been working as an actor and writer for over three decades. He has received many awards in both Canada and the US, including a Tony for The Drowsy Chaperone. Recent TV projects include: Slings & Arrows (TMN, Sundance), Michael: Tuesdays and Thursdays (CBC), Michael: Everyday (CBC), Sensitive Skin (HBO) and Elf: Buddy’s Musical Christmas (NBC). Recent theatre projects include: Encores! Hey, Look Me Over (NY); The Sting (Paper Mill); Half Time (Chicago, Paper Mill); The Prom (Atlanta); Elf (Broadway, Dublin, London); The Drowsy Chaperone (Toronto, Broadway, London); and Second City Toronto (Performer, Director, Artistic Director).

MATTHEW SKLAR (Music)

is the Tony, Emmy, and Drama Desk Award-nominated composer of the Broadway musicals Elf and The Wedding Singer (Tony nomination for Best Original Score, Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Music). He was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Music Direction for the critically acclaimed NBC stopmotion animated TV Special Elf: Buddy’s Musical Christmas. Additional TV/film credits include: Sesame Street, Wonder Pets, and PBS’s American Masters. Awards include the ASCAP Foundation Richard Rodgers New Horizons Award, the Gilman/Gonzalez-Falla Theatre Award, and the Jonathan Larson Performing Arts Foundation.