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by Charles M. Schulz Based on the television special by Bill Melendez and Lee Mendelson Stage Adaptation by Eric Schaeffer By Special Arrangement with Arthur Whitelaw and Ruby Persson Directed by K. Doug Miller A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Tams-Witmark LLC. concordtheatricals.com. “Just Like Me” is written by Lee Mendelson and David Benoit; Published by Songs of Universal, Inc., David Benoit Music and Lee Mendelson Film Productions, Inc. (BMI); All Rights Reserved. Artwork Peanuts © 2015 Peanuts Worldwide LLC. All Rights Reserved.
NOVEMBER 25 – DECEMBER 23, 2023 TITLE SPONSOR
dct.org
DALLAS CHILDREN’S THEATER WITH THE GENEROUS SUPPORT OF
Dallas Tourism Public Improvement Disctrict PRESENTS
TM
by Charles M. Schulz Based on the television special by Bill Melendez and Lee Mendelson Stage Adaptation by Eric Schaeffer By Special Arrangement with Arthur Whitelaw and Ruby Persson A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Tams-Witmark LLC. concordtheatricals.com. “Just Like Me” is written by Lee Mendelson and David Benoit; Published by Songs of Universal, Inc., David Benoit Music and Lee Mendelson Film Productions, Inc. (BMI); All Rights Reserved. Artwork Peanuts © 2015 Peanuts Worldwide LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Directed by K. DOUG MILLER* Music Direction by ADAM C. WRIGHT
Sound Design by MARCO SALINAS
Scenic/Video Design by LAUREN WHEAT
Costume Design by LYLE HUCHTON
Lighting Design by VINCHENZO LOCASCIO
Stage Managed by CAITLYNE MARTIN*
Special Thanks: Dallas College, Capital One, and S-Ankh Rasa 2
THE VIDEOTAPING OR OTHER VIDEO OR AUDIO RECORDING OF THIS PRODUCTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
DALLAS CHILDREN’S THEATER 2023-2024 SEASON SUPPORTED BY
Office of
Arts & Culture THE M.R. & EVELYN HUDSON FOUNDATION
MARCH FAMILY FOUNDATION THE THEODORE AND BEULAH BEASLEY FOUNDATION, INC.
THE CARLSON FOUNDATION
THE ROSEWOOD CORPORATION
THE MELINDA AND JIM JOHNSON FAMILY
GENERAL SPONSORS INCLUDE Carl B. & Florence E. King Foundation The Holloway Family Foundation Sharron Hunt Lara and Stephen Harrison TACA
The Rocky Howard Family Texas Travel Industry Recovery Program
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT IS PROVIDED BY
BUILDING FUND SUPPORT
Dallas Tourism Public Improvement District Capital for Kids Joan Becker Texas Commission on the Arts and National Endowment for the Arts Stephen M. Seay Foundation Margot B. Perot The Eugene McDermott Foundation Ellen and Jim Markus Central Market Laurie Sands Harrison Lisa K. Simmons Green Mountain Energy
The Carlson Foundation The March Family Foundation Laurie Sands Harrison The Rosewood Corporation Anonymous Family Elizabeth & Bart Showalter Karen & Ken Travis The Hersh Foundation Everett & Becky Spaeth
DCT’s official renewable energy partner
SENSORY-FRIENDLY SPONSORS INCLUDE
Fichtenbaum Charitable Trust Bank of America, N.A., Trustee
5938 SKILLMAN ST., DALLAS, TX 75231 PHONE: (214) 978-0110 | BOX OFFICE: (214) 740-0051 | DCT.ORG
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THE CAST CHARLIE BROWN.........................................................................MAXIMILIAN SWENSON SNOOPY...................................................................................................MICHAEL ALONZO* LUCY.................................................................................................................. EMILY FRERICH LINUS................................................................................. ETHAN RODRIGUEZ-MULLINS* PIG-PEN..............................................................................................................SAM CORDES* FRIEDA / DANCE CAPTAIN............................................................................ANIA LYONS* SCHROEDER................................................................................................CARSON WRIGHT VIOLET....................................................................................................................... MARY KIM* SALLY............................................................................................................................LILY GAST SHERMY..........................................................................................................TOMMY STUART UNDERSTUDIES CHARLIE BROWN..................................................................................................................................................................................TOMMY STUART SNOOPY.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... ANIA LYONS* LINUS, PIG-PEN, SCHROEDER, SHERMY................................................................................................................................... K. DOUG MILLER* LUCY, FRIEDA, VIOLET, SALLY.............................................................................................................................................................SYDNEY HAMIL
MUSICIANS CONDUCTOR / PIANO............................................................................ADAM C. WRIGHT BASS....................................................................................................................RICK NORMAN PERCUSSION.............................................................................................. MICHAEL PTACIN PERCUSSION (COVER)............................................................................... BRIAN LINDSEY *INDICATES MEMBER OF ACTORS’ EQUITY ASSOCIATION
Actors' Equity Association, founded in 1913, is the U.S. labor union that represents more than 51,000 professional Actors and Stage Managers. Equity Association, founded in 1913, is the U.S. labor union that represents more than 51,000 professional Actors and Stage Managers. Equity fosters the art of live theatre as fosters the art of live theatre asActors' anEquity essential component of society and advances the careers of its members by negotiating wages, improving working an essential component of society and advances the careers of its members by negotiating wages, improving working conditions and providing a wide range of benefits, included health and pension plans. Actors' Equity is a member of the AFL-CIO and is affiliated with FIA, an international organization of performing arts unions. conditions and providing a wide range of benefits, including health and pension plans. Actors' Equity is a member of the AFL-CIO and is affiliated with FIA, an international organization of performing arts unions. THE VIDEOTAPING OR OTHER VIDEO OR AUDIO RECORDING OF THIS PRODUCTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
THE VIDEOTAPING OF THIS PRODUCTION IS A VIOLATION OF COPYRIGHT LAW AND AN ACTIONABLE OFFENSE.
Dallas Children’s Theater is a proud member of TYA/USA, TCG and ASSITEJ, The International Association of Theatre for Children and Young People.
PRODUCTION STAFF DIRECTOR OF DESIGN...........................................SALLY FIORELLO PRODUCTION MANAGER...................................JANEL VILLATORO ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGER................ CAITLYNE MARTIN TECHNICAL DIRECTOR................................................JOSH SMITH ASSISTANT TECHNICAL DIRECTOR..................... NOLAN MORALEZ STAFF CARPENTER.............................................JESUS GONZALEZ MASTER ELECTRICIAN................................VINCHENZO LOCASCIO SOUND ENGINEER........................................ BRIAN CHRISTENSEN SCENIC ARTIST....................................................EMILY HAUEISEN COSTUME SHOP MANAGER................................... LYLE HUCHTON 4
ASST. COSTUME SHOP MANAGER...................... GLORY SPRINKLE ASST. STAGE MANAGER................................BECCA BONGIORNO* CARPENTERS...................NOEL HAWTHORNE, ISAIAH NAVARRO, ZIGGY RENNER, TOMMY STUART ELECTRICIANS................. AUSTIN BENDER, SHAWN CUMMINGS, KATE DOWNS, NOEL HAWTHORNE, JAMIE MILLIGAN, ASH WILSON PRODUCTION APPRENTICES..... KACEE COCHRUM, THEO MOERS, VIOLET NASSRI, DANI WILSON SKATING CONSULTANT......................................... KELLY HOLMES
MICHAEL ALONZO* Snoopy
Michael Alonzo is excited to be back! Prior appearances at DCT include Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus! The Musical!, The Happy Elf, and Junie B.’s Essential Survival Guide to School. He received a Bachelor of Arts in Music from the University of North Texas. He has performed at Theatre Under The Stars, Casa Mañana, Lyric Stage, Uptown Players, and Garland Summer Musicals. Much love to Kevin, Mom, Dad, and sis!
SAM CORDES* Pig-Pen
Sam is ecstatic to return to Dallas Children’s Theater after last season’s Charlotte’s Web (Wilbur). Sam has just returned from New Mexico where he was traveling with Agile Rascal Bicycle Touring Theatre, a troupe that creates original plays and tours them on bicycles. Sam hopes everyone keeps Christmas in their hearts year-round and would like to dedicate his performance to Brianna who makes every day Christmas.
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EMILY FRERICH Lucy
Emily Frerich is so excited to be making her DCT debut as Lucy! She received her theatre performance degree from Oklahoma State University in 2020 and this past year has enjoyed roles in Xanadu (Kira) at Backdoor Theatre; Big Fish (Jenny Hill) at Plaza Theatre Company; and Newsies (Katherine) at both Plaza Theatre Company and The Firehouse Theatre. Emily would like to give a huge thank you to God, her family, friends, doggy, the amazing team at DCT, and YOU for joining in on our Christmas fun!
LILY GAST Sally
Lily is delighted to be a part of her first DCT production! Lily studied Theatre Performance at The University of Northern Iowa where she received a B.A. in 2022. Select credits: A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Hermia) and The Mousetrap (Miss Casewell) at St. Croix Festival Theatre, A Broadway Christmas (Vocal Soloist) at Virginia Repertory Theatre, and the world premiere of His Story The Musical (Mary Magdalene) at Visceral Entertainment. In 2021, Lily was awarded the title of Grand Champion in The Bill Riley Talent Search at the Iowa State Fair for her rendition of Don’t Rain On My Parade. Lily sends all her love to her parents and older siblings.
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MARY KIM* Violet
Mary is so excited to be making her Dallas Children’s Theater debut! She has her BFA in Musical Theatre from Missouri State University, and notable credits include Goin’ Hollywood and A Gentleman’s Guide To Love and Murder at WaterTower Theatre; The King and I (Lady Thiang) at Plan-B Entertainment; The Secret Garden (Rose) at Missouri State University; Joseph…Technicolor Dreamcoat (Narrator) at Landers Theatre; and Fugitive Songs (Karen) at Springfield Contemporary Theatre. When she’s not onstage, Mary loves to travel and help others do so as a travel agent. All the love and gratitude to Josh, Mom, Dad, and Matthew! You can follow Mary’s work at @marykimnomad and marykim.org.
ANIA LYONS*
Frieda / Dance Captain / Snoopy Understudy Ania Lyons is so happy to return to the DCT stage. She’s been in John Steptoe’s Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters: An African Tale (Hungry Boy, Villager, Snake Puppeteer); Charlotte’s Web (Understudy); The Happy Elf (Bubbles); Junie B.’s Essential Survival Guide to School (May); The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (Susan); and Dragons Love Tacos (Blue Dragon)! She returned to LIVE THEATRE in Dallas Theater Center’s A Christmas Carol (Female Swing) and Theatre Three’s touring production of The Music Man (Zaneeta Shinn). Ania has also worked onstage and backstage with other DFW theaters, such as Prism Movement Theater, Uptown Players, Casa Mañana, Lyric Stage, and more. Follow her adventures @Lyons.dance543.
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ETHAN RODRIGUEZ-MULLINS* Linus
Ethan Rodriguez-Mullins is so excited to return to Dallas Children’s Theater! Last seen at Lyric Stage in Rocky Horror (Riff Raff) and Oklahoma Shakespeare Festival in Hamlet ESP (Hamlet), his favorite roles include Diary of a Worm, a Spider, and a Fly National Tour (Spider); Disney’s Beauty & The Beast (LeFou); and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (Mr. Tumnus) at Dallas Children’s Theater; Grease (Doody) at The Firehouse Theatre; and Yellow Boat (Benjamin) at Resolute Theatre Project. Music director credits include The Addams Family at NTPA, Godspell at CORP, and Park-A-Palooza ll at Collin College.
TOMMY STUART
Shermy / Charlie Brown Understudy Tommy Stuart is thrilled to be back at DCT after last season’s Charlotte’s Web (John Arable). His previous work on stage includes Junie B. Jones Is Not a Crook (Jim) and The Glass Menagerie (Jim O’Connor). He has performed locally at Cara Mía Theatre Company and Shakespeare Dallas. He would like to thank his family for their never-ending support.
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MAXIMILIAN SWENSON Charlie Brown
Maximilian Swenson is a recent graduate of UT Arlington with a BFA in Performance and a minor in Dance. He is beyond excited to be working with Dallas Children’s Theater! His favorite roles were in Fiddler on the Roof (Tevye); Putnam County Spelling Bee (William Barfeé); and A Few Good Men (Louden Downey). He would like to thank his friends, family, and dogs for their constant support and love. Enjoy the show!
CARSON WRIGHT Schroeder
Carson Wright is grateful to work with Dallas Children’s Theater. Some recent regional theatre credits include King Lear and Much Ado About Nothing with Shakespeare Dallas, One Flea Spare with Second Thought Theatre, Harvey with WaterTower Theatre, The Thrush and the Woodpecker with Kitchen Dog Theater, and Stand-up Tragedy with the Oak Cliff and Latino Cultural Centers. He holds a B.F.A. in Theatre from Southern Methodist University and is represented by the Kim Dawson Agency. You can follow Carson’s work at carsondwright.com and on Instagram at @carsondwright.
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SYDNEY HAMIL
Understudy for Lucy, Frieda, Violet, Sally Sydney is so excited to be working on her first show with Dallas Children’s Theater! Her latest credits include Pippin (Leading Player Understudy) at Theatre Frisco and Gypsy (Gypsy) at MainStage Irving-Las Colinas. You can also catch her performing on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad. She would like to thank her wonderful family and friends, along with the amazing cast, crew and creative team of this wonderful show!
MEET THE ARTISTIC / PRODUCTION STAFF SAMANTHA TURNER Executive Director Samantha Turner is a leader in both the non-profit and corporate sectors with expertise in performing arts administration, business management, and marketing. In June 2023, she was named Executive Director for Dallas Children’s Theater after serving as Executive Director for Ballet Arizona for six years. During her tenure, the professional ballet company achieved its greatest levels of financial and creative health. Before Samantha was appointed Executive Director, she served three years as Ballet Arizona’s Director of Marketing, achieving record earned revenue for several productions. Prior to joining Ballet Arizona, Samantha held leadership roles in both non-profit and Fortune 500 companies. She served as Head of Business Operations and Finance for CAP21, a New York-based musical theatre conservatory and theatre company. Samantha moved into that role after a year-long sabbatical immersed in acting, singing, and dance training that allowed her to gain a deep understanding of the arts and artists. She integrated those insights with her 20 years of Fortune 500 leadership experience to transition to a career focused on the strategic management of arts organizations. Samantha’s for-profit career includes high-level marketing and business management roles at Aflac, Assurant, and other organizations of national and regional scope. In addition to her professional experience, Samantha holds MBAs in marketing and international business/ecommerce, and an undergraduate degree in broadcast journalism.
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MEET THE ARTISTIC / PRODUCTION STAFF NANCY SCHAEFFER Artistic Director Nancy has directed numerous DCT productions including Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!; Junie B.’s Essential Survival Guide to School; Dragons Love Tacos; Schoolhouse Rock Live!; Disney’s Beauty and the Beast; Ella Enchanted: The Musical; Magic Tree House’s Holiday Musical: A Ghost Tale for Mr. Dickens; Goosebumps the Musical: Phantom of the Auditorium; Junie B. Jones Is Not a Crook; Teen Brain: The Musical; Skippyjon Jones; Rapunzel! Rapunzel! A Very Hairy Fairy Tale; Go, Dog. Go!; Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat; Pinkalicious, The Musical; How I Became a Pirate; dont u luv me?; Madeline’s Christmas; EAT (It’s Not About Food); Goodnight Moon; The Secret Life of Girls; and 12 productions of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Nancy also directed DCT’s highly successful touring production of The Stinky Cheeseman and Other Fair(l)y (Stoopid) Tales which toured the U.S. and then traveled to Shanghai, China, playing at the 2006 Shanghai International Children’s Culture and Arts Expo. Nancy has directed for The Dallas Opera and Shared Stories for the Sixth Floor Museum. She has also directed the Christmas Celebration for the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. She serves as DCT’s Education Director and Artistic Director. K. DOUG MILLER* Director / Choreographer / Understudy Doug is proud to be DCT’s Musical Theater Conservatory Director. His directing credits at DCT include the national tours and local productions of Stuart Little; The True Story of The 3 Little Pigs; How I Became a Pirate; Miss Nelson Has a Field Day and others. Other shows he has directed at DCT include A Charlie Brown Christmas; The Addams Family; The Happy Elf; Willy Wonka; Into the Woods; Little Women; Alice in Wonderland; ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas; Next Stop Broadway and Miracle on 34th Street. Doug was Performance Director for Barney & Friends (PBS), and has directed and performed at most professional theaters in DFW, including Theatre Three, Uptown Players, WaterTower Theatre, Kitchen Dog Theater, MainStage Irving-Las Colinas, One Thirty Productions, Second Thought Theatre, and The Firehouse Theatre. Doug has received the Dallas Theatre League, The Column, Dallas Observer, and the prestigious DFW Critics Forum awards for Acting & Directing. “Mr. Doug” is committed to enhancing and changing the lives of young performers. He is incredibly proud of these actors, his students, and the production team. ADAM C. WRIGHT Music Director Adam C. Wright is a prolific pianist, composer, accompanist, and director who has maintained a lengthy and abundant career across North Texas. Music directing productions at Dallas Children’s Theater, WaterTower Theatre, Uptown Players, Theatre Three, and Imprint Theatreworks, to name a few, he rarely finds a moment when his fingers are away from the keys. He also music directed a staged reading at the Lyric Theater in London, two US premieres, and several Southwestern regional premieres. Adam works as an accompanist and musical theater educator at both DCT and Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing & Visual Arts. LAUREN WHEAT Scenic/Video Designer Lauren is excited to be a part of DCT’s 2023-24 season! She is a graduate of Baylor University Theatre majoring in Scenic Design/Scenic Art and is pursuing her MFA in Scenic Design at SMU. Recent roles at DCT include Props Designer for The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe; Scenic Designer/Artist for The Secret Life of Girls and Andi Boi; and Props/Scenic Designer for Little Women. She has also previously designed for Stage West and Shine Performing Arts Studio, and has worked as a Scenic Artist for WaterTower Theatre. Lauren would like to thank her family and her parents for their endless love and support.
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MEET THE ARTISTIC / PRODUCTION STAFF VINCHENZO LOCASCIO Lighting Designer Vinchenzo joins DCT full-time this season as the Master Electrician. After working on Endlings earlier this year, he is excited about the opportunity to design the lighting for this season’s holiday show. A special thanks goes to his friends and family who continue to support him in his artistic endeavors. MARCO SALINAS Sound Designer Marco has designed many, MANY shows for DCT over the last 22 years. He is also a recipient of numerous awards for his sound design work in the Dallas/Fort Worth theater scene and has designed for shows as far away as New York City and even Ireland. He is also the Director of Educational Tours with Shakespeare Dallas where he writes and directs local area tours that teach children and teens about William Shakespeare. LYLE HUCHTON Costume Designer Lyle has been a working costumer in the Dallas area for over 30 years. He has designed over 50+ shows for Dallas Children’s Theater. Some of his favorites include The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe; Ella Enchanted: The Musical; Treasure Island Reimagined!; Jungalbook; James and the Giant Peach; Junie B. Is Not a Crook; The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane; Pinkalicious, The Musical; and Rapunzel! Rapunzel! A Very Hairy Fairy Tale. Other regional credits include The Dallas Opera, Dallas Theater Center, Shakespeare Dallas, San Antonio Opera, and The Dallas Arboretum’s The 12 Days of Christmas. National tours for HIT Entertainment include Barney Live! and The Wiggles. He also worked on the locally produced PBS television show Barney and Friends, receiving two Daytime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Costume Design/Styling. He is in his 10th year as the Resident Costume Designer/ Costume Shop Manager at Dallas Children’s Theater. CAITLYNE MARTIN* Stage Manager CaitLyne is the Assistant Production Manager with Dallas Children’s Theater. Recent productions include DCT’s The Secret Life of Girls (Lighting Designer), Charlotte’s Web (Stage Manager), Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! (Deck Manager), and Last Stop on Market Street (Deck Manager). She was also a Production Apprentice during the 2021-2022 season. CaitLyne has a BFA from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas. BECCA BONGIORNO* Assistant Stage Manager Becca is excited for her tenth season with Dallas Children’s Theater as part of the production team, serving as Assistant Stage Manager for this show. She was assistant props designer for 2019 production of The Secret Life of Girls and Yana Wana’s Legend of the Bluebonnet and has worked at several theaters around the D-FW area doing a bit of everything: Balloon Wrangler/Sock Master for Blue, Crafter, Box Office Staff, Deck Crew, Deck Crew Head, and Teaching Assistant at Dallas Children’s Theater; Spotlight Operator at Uptown Players and Pegasus Theatre; and Server at Pocket Sandwich Theatre. She would like to take this opportunity to thank her family, theater families, and friends for their encouragement, love, and support. A special shout out to her dad, hoping he is watching and proud of all she has accomplished and everything she will do in the future.
CONNECT WITH US 12
#charliebrownatDCT
DALLAS CHILDREN’S THEATER THANKS YOU! List reflects gifts received through November 13, 2023.
On behalf of the 250,000+ children and families served annually, we gratefully acknowledge our donors who through their contributions made it possible for DCT to present over 500 performances of high quality, professional theater for youth and families. Although program space limits our ability to publicly recognize only donors of $500 and above, we deeply and sincerely appreciate every contribution. As ticket sales cover only half our costs, your annual financial support is critical to introducing North Texas children to the magic of live theater. Should you wish to be added to this extraordinary list of donors or suggest corrections to our list, please contact the DCT Donor & Corporate Relations Department at (214) 978-0110 and THANK YOU!
DIRECTOR’S CIRCLE $100,000 + City of Dallas Office of Arts and Culture March Family Foundation Texas Instruments Foundation PRODUCING PARTNER $50,000-$99,999 The Theodore and Beulah Beasley Foundation The Carlson Foundation Fichtenbaum Charitable Trust, Bank of America, N.A., Co-Trustee The M.R. & Evelyn Hudson Foundation The Rosewood Foundation The Shubert Foundation CENTERSTAGE SPONSOR $25,000-$49,999 Chi Omega Education & Charity Fund of Dallas Dallas Tourism Public Improvement District William Randolph Hearst Foundation Rocky Howard Sharron Hunt and Family Fund Melinda & Jim Johnson Carl B. and Florence E. King Foundation The Eugene McDermott Foundation Showalter Family Fund at the Dallas Foundation Texas Instruments Karen & Ken Travis SEASON BENEFACTOR $10,000-$24,999 Anderskouv Jarnum Family Joan Becker Capital for Kids Central Market Communities Foundation of Texas/North Texas Giving Day Fund Crawley Familly Foundation Jane & Greg Greene The Holloway Family Foundation Emily Jefferson Louise W. Kahn Endowment Fund at the Dallas Foundation Ellen & Jim Markus National Endowment for the Arts Margot B. Perot Prosperity Bank Laurie Sands Harrison Stephen M. Seay Foundation Lisa K. Simmons Becky & Everett Spaeth Strake Foundation TACA Texas Commission on the Arts Texas Travel Industry Recovery Program TXU Energy LEADING PLAYER $5,000-$9,999 Anonymous Jean Aoki Joe B. Brooks June Dales
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Sarah & Michael DeLuke FGH Foundation/Betsy & Rick Fijolek FGH Foundation/Kelly & Gregory Fijolek Fred Jones Family Foundation/Angela & BJ Hall Goldman Sachs/Charities Aid Foundation America Lara & Stephen Harrison Haynes and Boone, LLP Lauren & Ryan Herrington Carolyn Holloway Houlihan Lokey Stephanie & Ben Jeffery Joyce & Robert Johnson Melinda & Jim Johnson Carole & Chris Jordan Margaret & Lester Keliher Lisa Lee Augustine Frizzell & David Lowery Jacqui & Ray Mackewicz The McGee Endowment Foundation Fund at the Dallas Foundation Harry S. Moss Foundation Julie & John Parolisi Kara & Todd Ranta Debbie & Michael Rasa Janet & Lewis Shaw Sarah Freedman & Christopher Skoog Rachael & Evan Singer Deborah & Craig Sutton Jane & William B. Travis DIRECTOR $2,500-$4,999 Morgan & Kilian Bennett Kathleen Kerr Blanchard & Chuck Blanchard Nick & Sara Borrelli Capital One Services, LLC Ernst & Young Foundation/Deborah & Richard Stanford Jennifer Fargo Faus Family Foundation Kelly & Gregory Fijolek Christy & Bill Gammill The Ryan Goldblatt Foundation Meagan & Daniel Hemenway Holland & Knight Nicole & Scott Hudson Sharron Hunt Matt Johnson Erin & Josh Johnston Eric Karp Judith Kurnick Robin A. Ladd Sarah & Alan Losinger Corale & Mitchell Madden Leah & Adam Mora Tim Mullins Raising Canes Alicia Duque & Nima Rohani Sarah & Tim Salmon Amanda & David Schnetzer Brooke & Aaron Shelby Camelia & Ted Shoemaker
Tara Lewis & John Swords Wilson Tarver Retta Van Auken Shanti & Ian Venegas Shelly & Stephen Wilson PRODUCER $1,000-$2,499 Bonnie Jean Foundation Barbara Brice Sally & Tom Dunning Lorelei Garratt Jacque Gavin Grant Thornton, LLP Charlene Howell Keliher Family Foundation Make It Count Family Foundation Rae & Lloyd Marquis Nancy Miller Blount Stephanie & Mark Nelson Rachel & Garth Orr LaToyia Pierce Patricia Santiago Elizabeth Solender & Gary Scott Patty & Joe Smith Henny Wright & Ed Stead Laurie-Jo & Steve Straty Annette Teter Texas Mutual Jasmine & Chris Tobias Triumph Financial Amy & Kyle Turner Julie & Bill Wheat Karen & Jim Wiley PATRON $500-$999 Lynn Hampton & Dennis Auld Adrienne & Michael Ball Martha Barrios Wesley & Jeff Brady Barbara & Julien DeVereux Mary Dolan Deanna Dunagan Jay Gardner Ann & Jim Hambleton Janet C. James Pioneer Natural Resources Stefanie Schneidler & Jeffrey Robinson Maureen & Robert Royer Jeanne & David Selzer Brooke & Aaron Shelby Katie & David Shutler Harianne & David Wallenstein Charlotte & Wade Wiles
Get ready for the play to end all plays – led by two best friends.
JANUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 25 2024
Based on the Elephant & Piggie books by MO WILLEMS Published by HYPERION BOOKS FOR CHILDREN Script and Lyrics by MO WILLEMS Music by DEBORAH WICKS LA PUMA Originally commissioned and produced By the KENNEDY CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS Directed by NANCY SCHAEFFER
ENJOYED BY AGES 3 AND UP This play was commissioned by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and was first produced at the Kennedy Center during the 2013-2014 season. Mo Willems’ ELEPHANT & PIGGIE’S “WE ARE IN A PLAY!” is presented through special arrangement with Music Theater International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. mtishows[dot]com. Photo courtesy of Colin Peterson and Nashville Children’s Theatre.
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Dr. Maya Angelou’s inspiring poem comes to life in a powerful and innovative musical, celebrating the strength and courage in us all, on tour and the DCT stage for a limited time!
MARCH 16 - MARCH 30 2024
By PAIGE HERNANDEZ with Music by KRIS FUNN Based on “Life Doesn’t Frighten Me” by DR. MAYA ANGELOU From the book AND STILL I RISE Used with permission of CAGED BIRD LEGACY, LLC Directed by PAIGE HERNANDEZ
ENJOYED BY AGES 5 AND UP
BUY TICKETS NOW “Life Doesn’t Frighten Me” from the book And Still I Rise Copyright © 1978 by Dr. Maya Angelou Used with permission of Caged Bird Legacy, LLC. Photo by Eric Mull. Courtesy of Paige Hernandez.
TITLE SPONSORS
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The exciting prequel to THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE...Narnia is born!
“
A stunning production... the magic is exhilarating! NANCY CHURNIN
The Dallas Morning News
APRIL 27 – MAY 25 2024
Dramatization by AURAND HARRIS Adapted from the story by C.S. LEWIS Directed by ARTIE OLAISEN
ENJOYED BY AGES 7 AND UP
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Produced by special arrangement with THE DRAMATIC PUBLISHING COMPANY of Woodstock, Illinois.
TITLE SPONSOR
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DCT BOARD OF TRUSTEES PRESIDENT: Jim Markus* CHAIRMAN: Todd Ranta* PRESIDENT-ELECT: Leah Mora* VP DEVELOPMENT: Michael DeLuke* VP EDUCATION: Helen Harris-Allen* VP FACILITIES: Everett Spaeth* VP FINANCE/TREASURER: Lauren Herrington* CO- VP GOVERNANCE/NOMINATING: Camelia Shoemaker* CO- VP GOVERNANCE/NOMINATING: Martha Barrios* CO- VP SOCIAL OUTREACH: Mar Howard* CO- VP SOCIAL OUTREACH: Amanda Schnetzer* SECRETARY: Julie Parolisi*
DCT BOARD OF ADVISORS Lorlee Bartos Joan Becker Nancy Carlson Mary Covington Yvonne Crum Paul Daugherty Betsy Fijolek Jane Kennedy Greene Rocky Howard Sharron Hunt Vibeke Jarnum Emily Jefferson
Morgan Bennett Sara Borrelli Angela Downes Kelly Fijolek Sarah Freedman Brooks Hall Tiffini Hall Meagan Hemenway Scott Hudson Stephanie Jeffery LB Jeter, Jr. Matt Johnson Josh Johnston Amanda Kendall Robin A. Ladd
EMERITUS MEMBERS CHAIR EMERITUS: Melissa Deakins CHAIR EMERITUS: Laurie Sands Harrison CHAIR EMERITUS: Julie H. Kosnik CHAIR EMERITUS: Carole Jordan CHAIR EMERITUS: Carol March*
Lisa Lee Jacqueline Mackewicz Corale Madden Adam Mora Jr., MD Tim Mullins Stephanie Nelson* Rachel Orr Nima Rohani, DDS, MS Sarah Salmon Jennifer Garratt Saltsman Evan P. Singer Deborah Stanford Jasmine Tobias Kyle Turner Shanti Shahani Venegas
Margaret Keliher Tara Lewis* Peter Martin Teresa Parravano Todd Ranta Christa Sanford Sally Schopmeyer Elizabeth Showalter Laurie-Jo Straty Craig Sutton Bill Travis Karen Travis
BOARD LIAISON Mickie Bragalone – Office of Cultural Affairs
* Executive Committee
DCT STAFF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Samantha Turner ARTISTIC DIRECTOR / EDUCATION DIRECTOR: Nancy Schaeffer ASSOCIATE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR: Artie Olaisen DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & HUMAN RESOURCES: Dennis O’Riley
FOUNDER: Robyn Flatt
EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATOR: Coy Covington
FINANCE PAYROLL ADMINISTRATOR: Kimberly Parks FINANCE MANAGER: Jim Amrhein ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT: Roxie King DEVELOPMENT GRANTS MANAGER: Joey Hamilton DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANT RECORDS AND VOLUNTEER COORDINATION: Elizabeth Ross EDUCATION EDUCATION COORDINATOR: Terry Feagin PROJECT INCLUSION COORDINATOR: Gina Waits EDUCATION MANAGER: Amelia Awalt MUSICAL THEATER CONSERVATORY DIRECTOR: K. Doug Miller ACADEMY COORDINATOR: Raven Lanuza-Brown
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ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE ACTING / VIDEO: Karl Schaeffer MARKETING & PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR OF MARKETING: Mallory Coulter DIRECTOR OF TICKETING & PATRON SERVICES: Steve Jones PR / ENGAGEMENT MANAGER: Jazmine Hill BOX OFFICE ASSOCIATE: Douglass Burks BOX OFFICE ASSISTANT: Rachel Wells FIELD TRIP COORDINATOR: Joanna Coogan FACILITIES NETWORK SYSTEMS ADMIN. / IT / FACILITIES: Aaron Rodriguez
PRODUCTION PRODUCTION MANAGER / RENTAL COORDINATOR: Janel Villatoro ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGER: CaitLyne Martin TECHNICAL DIRECTOR: Josh Smith ASSISTANT TECHNICAL DIRECTOR: Nolan Moralez RESIDENT COSTUME DESIGNER / COSTUME SHOP MANAGER: Lyle Huchton SOUND ENGINEER: Brian Christensen RESIDENT SOUND DESIGNER: Marco Salinas MASTER ELECTRICIAN: Vinchenzo Locascio STAFF CARPENTER: Jesus Gonzalez ASSISTANT COSTUME SHOP MANAGER Glory Sprinkle DIRECTOR OF DESIGN: Sally Fiorello
THE LEGACY OF OUR FOUNDER
ROBYN FLATT
In 1984, Robyn Flatt, already an acclaimed director, actor, and lighting designer, co-founded Dallas Children’s Theater with start-up funds of just $500. She then led the organization to great success for four decades before her retirement from DCT in 2023. A former Dallas Theater Center Resident Company member, she served as Assistant Artistic Director and Director of Theater-in-the-Parks at DTC. Her acting credits include two roles she created for award-winning world premiere productions: Dewey Dell in Journey to Jefferson and Martha Ann Sickenger in Preston Jones’ The Oldest Living Graduate. Her directing credits at DCT include several world premiere adaptations by Linda Daugherty of Steven Kellogg’s stories, which have also toured nationally. Other critically acclaimed productions include Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, The Miracle Worker, And Then They Came For Me, To Kill a Mockingbird, Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters: An African Tale, Treasure Island Reimagined!, and Yana Wana’s Legend of the Bluebonnet. She has served on the boards of AATE, ASSITEJ/USA, and CTFA. She is a recipient of The 500, Inc.’s prestigious Ken Bryant Visionary Award, Dallas Historical Society’s 1999 Excellence in Community Service for Creative Arts, the 2002 Leon Rabin Standing Ovation Award, and the Excellence in Nonprofit Management Award. Ms. Flatt is a College of Fellows of American Theatre member and served five years as Treasurer of the Children’s Theatre Foundation of America. She was nominated by The Dallas Morning News arts staff for the Texan of the Year Award in 2010 and 2015 and was honored in 2016 with the Orlin Corey Award for Artistic Excellence from the American Alliance for Theater and Education. In 2023, Robyn received the Jac Alder Advocacy Award presented by the Dallas Area Cultural Advocacy Coalition and the Linda and Bill Custard Award presented by Dallas Theater Center.
aren Photos by K
wrence da Blase, La Almond, Lin
Jenkins, and
DCT staff
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Photos by Lawrence Jenkins, Linda Blase, and DCT staff
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