The Frog Princess Playbill

Page 1

ENSEMBLE THEATRE CINCINNATI


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D. Lynn Meyers, Producing Artistic Director

THE FROG PRINCESS Book by JOSEPH McDONOUGH | Music & Lyrics by DAVID KISOR Directed by D. LYNN MEYERS†

December 4, 2019 – January 4, 2020 Set & Lighting Designer BRIAN c . MEHRING

Costume Designer MARY MURPHY

Music Director STEVE GOERS Choreographer DEE ANNE BRYLL

Technical Director JACK MURPHY

Intimacy & Movement Choreographer ERIN CARR

Sound Designer MATT CALLAHAN

Wig & Makeup Designer KELLY YURKO

Properties Master/Design Assistant SHANNON RAE LUTZ Production Stage Manager BRANDON T. HOLMES*

Assistant Stage Manager LEXI MULLER*

Production Manager MATTHEW HOLLSTEGGE

THE VIDEOTAPING OR MAKING OF ELECTRONIC OR OTHER AUDIO AND/OR VISUAL RECORDINGS OF THIS PRODUCTION IS A VIOLATION OF UNITED STATES COPYRIGHT LAW AND AN ACTIONABLE FEDERAL OFFENSE.

THE FROG PRINCESS is presented by special arrangement with PLAYSCRIPTS, INC. Originally produced in 1997 by the Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, D. Lynn Meyers Producing Artistic Director.

*Member belongs to Actors’ Equity Association, the union of professional actors and stage managers. This theatre operates under an agreement between Actors’ Equity Association, Professional Actors, and Stage Managers in the United States. Understudies never substitute for listed players unless a specific announcement is made at the time of the performance.

PREMIERE SPONSOR

ARTIST SPONSOR


2019–2020 SPONSORS

Photo by Ryan Kurtz

SEASON PRESENTING SPONSOR

SEASON FUNDER

OPERATING SUPPORT

FAIRY GODMOTHER SPONSOR

SEASON TICKET SPONSOR

EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT, & INCLUSION SPONSOR

SEASON SUPPORT Susan Friedlander Mitchell S. and Jacqueline P. Meyers Foundation

EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT, & INCLUSION SUPPORT Anonymous (2) William P. Anderson Foundation The Charles H. Dater Foundation Donald C. and Laura M. Harrison Family Foundation

IN-KIND SUPPORT Chet Cavaliere Cincinnati State Technical & Community College, Interpreter Training Program College Hill Coffee Co. & Casual Gourmet Dewey’s Pizza LPK OMS Photography Suder’s Art Store

In Honor of Marilyn F. Hill Betty Huck The Johnson Family Foundation Macy's Mr. & Mrs. David E. Moccia P&G Fund The Daniel & Susan Pfau Foundation Nellie Leaman Taft Foundation The Dennis B. & Patricia L. Worthen Fund

6 | 2019–2020 sponsors


the arts are the highest form of expression. PNC is proud to be a part of Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati. Because we believe in and support everything the arts can accomplish.

2019–2020 sponsors | 7

©2018 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved. PNC Bank, National Association. Member FDIC


CAST & CREW LIST CAST Boris/Baba Yaga..................................................................................................... MICHAEL G. BATH* ERG.....................................................................................................................................JOSH BEASLEY Nicholai/Wise Man...........................................................................DARNELL PIERRE BENJAMIN*^ Tsar/Bear......................................................................................................................... BURGESS BYRD* Svetlana/Falcon......................................................................................................... LISA DeROBERTS* Old Bones......................................................................................................................DEB G. GIRDLER* Night Maiden..............................................................................................KAYLA MARIE KLAMMER Natasha/Pike.................................................................................................................... SARA MACKIE* Night Maiden............................................................................................... RACHAEL M. PETRANEK Ivan................................................................................................................PATRICK EARL PHILLLIPS* Vasilisa............................................................................................................................BROOKE STEELE* Night Maiden...............................................................................................................ALEXIA VLAHOS ERL.........................................................................................................................................NORA WEISZ

RUNNING CREW Assistant Stage Manager............................................................................................... LEXI MULLER* Assistant Director...............................................................................................GRIFF BLUDWORTH Sound Engineer........................................................................................................RYAN BURGDORF Sound Operator............................................................................................CHRISTIAN GUTIERREZ Light Board Operator................................................................................................AMBER J. SMITH Spot Light Operator............................................................................................... KARSON McCALL Wardrobe Head/Costume Apprentice.................................................. SALLY MODZELEWSKI Running Crew.................................................................................................................AIDEN DALTON Wardrobe Crew........................................................JOSH BEASLEY, RACHAEL M. PETRANEK, ALEXIA VLAHOS, NORA WEISZ

UNDERSTUDIES Boris/Baba Yaga/Nicholai/Wise Man...................................................................AIDEN DALTON Ivan....................................................................................................................CHRISTIAN GUTIERREZ Old Bones/Night Maidens.................................................................................... KARSON McCALL Natasha/Svetlana........................................................................................................AMBER J. SMITH

*Member belongs to Actors’ Equity Association, the union of professional actors and stage managers. Understudies never substitute for listed players unless a specific announcement is made at the time of the performance. ^Dance Captain

8 | cast & crew list


SONG LIST ACT ONE "I’ve Been Thinking"............................................................................... Tsar, Ivan, Boris, & Nicholai "Wedding Blessings"................................................................................................................Company "I’ve Been Thinking (Reprise #1)"........................................................ Tsar, Ivan, Boris, Nicholai, Svetlana, & Natasha "Wind Take My Wish".................................................................................Vasilisa & Night Maidens "I’ve Been Thinking (Reprise #2)"....................................................... Tsar, Ivan, Boris, Nicholai, Svetlana, & Natasha "What in the World?"........................................................................................... Svetlana & Natasha "Wind Grant My Wish"...............................................................................Vasilisa & Night Maidens "I’ve Been Thinking (Reprise #3)"....................................................... Tsar, Ivan, Boris, Nicholai, Svetlana, & Natasha "The Kindness in Her Eyes"...............................................................................................................Ivan "Hey Brother"...........................................................................................Boris, Nicholai, ERG, & ERL "Come Away"............................................................................................................................. Old Bones

ACT ONE "Let Kindness Lead You/Sorrow Over Sadness"...........................Ivan, Vasilisa, & Company "The Tsar’s Dream"................................................................................................................. Tsar & Ivan "Let Kindness Lead You"...........................................................................Vasilisa & Night Maidens "Wise Man Song".........................................................................................................Wise Man & Ivan "Spare Me/Thank You"...................................................................................Tsar, Bear, Pike, Falcon "Baba Yaga"......................................................................................................Baba Yaga & Company "The Kingdom Beyond Blue Kingdoms"...........................................................................Company "The Kindness in Her Eyes (Reprise)"................................................Ivan, Vasilisa, & Company "Final Blessings".........................................................................................................................Company

MUSICIANS Cello.............................................................................................................................AMY GILLINGHAM Keyboards............................................................................................................................ DAVID KISOR Bass/Guitar..........................................................................................................................BRAD MYERS Percussion.......................................................................................................................BRIAN MALONE Trumpets.....................................................................................................MICHAEL MAVRIDOGLOU Violin/Mandolin........................................................................................................ PAUL PATTERSON Drums........................................................................................................................... RANDY WINTERS Recording Engineer..................................................................................................... RICK ANDRESS

This production will be performed with one intermission. Approximate running time is 1 hour, 45 minutes.

PLEASE TURN OFF ALL CELL PHONES. NO TEXTING. song list | 9


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ABOUT US OUR MISSION Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati (ETC) is a professional theatre dedicated to producing world and regional premieres of works that often explore compelling social issues. We fulfill our mission through our stage productions and educational outreach programs that enlighten, enliven, enrich, and inspire our audiences. OUR HISTORY From its founding in 1986, ETC has focused on providing an artistic home for local theatre professionals, including serving as a training ground for young artists. Each season, ETC produces a lineup devoted to the newest in contemporary theatre that attracts a diverse audience of 30,000 to more than 220 performances. Our work also includes education and engagement programs centered on introducing the performing arts to underserved audiences, especially economically disadvantaged children and children with disabilities. Combined, our productions and educational programs strive to fulfill ETC’s vision of creating an urban arts district that is accessible to all.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chip Gerhardt, Chair Kathy DeLaura, President Nick Apanius, Vice President Dennis Geiger, Treasurer Alicia Bond-Lewis Otto M. Budig Brenda A. Carter Tom Carothers Susan Friedlander Kristine Garrett Stephen M. King Shekhar Mitra Nilesh Patel Richard L. Postler Holly Brians Ragusa Jackie Reau Jeff Schloemer Mike Schueler Paul G. Sittenfeld Mary Stagaman DIRECTORS EMERITI Skip Hickenlooper Edward G. Marks FOUNDERS' CIRCLE Ruth D. & John Sawyer Ken & Mary "Murph" Mahler Dr. Charles O. Carothers Mitchell Meyers FINANCIAL ADVISOR Chet Cavaliere

This Theatre operates under an agreement between the League of Resident Theatres and Actors' Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.

(513) 421–3555 1127 Vine Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 www.ensemblecincinnati.org

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati is a member of Theatre Communications Group (TCG), the national organization for the American theatre.

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Magazine for information: advertise@CincinnatiMagazine.com


Photo by Ross Van Pelt

ABOUT ETC

OUR STAFF LEADERSHIP

OPERATIONS

D. Lynn Meyers, The Ruth Dennis Sawyer/Mary Taft Mahler Producing Artistic Director

John Diehl, Business Services Manager Jared D. Doren, Programming & Events Manager

Michael R. Zimmer, Director of Fiscal Operations

ARTISTIC Brian c. Mehring, Resident Set & Lighting Designer Shannon Rae Lutz, Properties Master, Design Assistant, & Director of Apprentice Programming Professional Acting Apprentices: Josh Beasley • Aiden Dalton • Christian Gutierrez Karson McCall• Rachael M. Petranek • Amber J. Smith Alexia Vlahos • Nora Weisz

DEVELOPMENT Laura Proto, Director of Development Josh Neumeyer, Finance & Grants Manager

EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT, & INCLUSION Lauren Carr, Director of Education, Engagement, & Inclusion Victoria Hawley, Education Associate Becca Howell, Education Associate

Nick Ligon, Head of Security

PATRON SERVICES Amy Weinstock, Box Office Manager Box Office Associates/House Managers: Ian Patrick Ashwell • Esther Cunningham • Olivia Diehl Jared Earland • Becca Howell • Kayla Marie Klammer Missy Lyons • Ben Ochsner • Patrick E. Phillips Sharisse Santos • Becca Schall Sara Agee, Lead Bartender Bar Staff: Heather Anderson • Darnell Pierre Benjamin Brianna Bernard • Carter Bratton • Burgess Byrd Zoe Davidson • Olivia Diehl • Lisa DeRoberts Wyn Jones • Jared Joplin • Jen Joplin • Holly Knox Andrew Maloney • Sara Ringenbach • DeAndre Smith Rebecca Stein • Daniela Nenova

PRODUCTION Matthew Hollstegge, Production Manager Jack Murphy, Technical Director

Teaching Artists:

Chris Holloway, Assistant Technical Director

Brianna Bernard • Michael Carr • Maggie Cramer

Stormie Mac, Costume Supervisor

Esther Cunningham • Zoe Davidson • Karson McCall

Katharina Koehler, Interim Costume Supervisor

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS Jocelyn Meyer, Director of Marketing & Communications

Rae Kuhn, Scenic Charge Artist & Production Assistant Ian Patrick Ashwell, Technical Apprentice

Amy J. Barbian, Marketing Manager

STAGE MANAGEMENT

Kayla E. Moore, Content Marketing Coordinator

Brandon T. Holmes, Production Stage Manager Lexi Muller, Assistant Stage Manager


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The Frog Princess

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Souvenir (2007). Photo by Sandy Underwood.

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ENSEMBLE THEATRE CINCINNATI

S t udio Series 10 - minu te Connections: Justice 2/10

@ 7 pm | tickets: $15 subscribers | $20 non-subscribers

10-minute plays by local playwrights coupled with Dominique Morriseau’s short play Night Vision.

S   he's Crazy: Men t  al Heal  t h & Ot her Issues 4/27

@ 7 pm | tickets: $15 subscribers | $20 non-subscribers

An interactive musical that educates, uplifts, and inspires audiences to reduce stigma associated with mental illness.

The Jackie Demaline Regional Collegia t  e P  laywrigh t  ing Compe t  i t  i on Reading 5/4

@ 7 pm | Free admission (reservations required)

First public reading of this year's winning script submission.


DIRECTOR'S NOTES “Let kindness lead you, kindness alone.” Kindness, it seems, is in short supply these days and perhaps at this time of year, we can come together and use this story to reflect on the power kindness can have in our lives. If you think about it, Ensemble Theatre was built by kindness and sustained by it. Kindness and creativity created ETC. The Frog Princess sprung from the heart of David Kisor when early in my tenure at ETC, he came to me with a beautiful story book and told me he wanted to create a musical based on the ancient Russian tale. He had heard an interview with Robert Bly on male shame and how it was a pervasive male characteristic that needed to be addressed. David linked that thought with the story of The Frog Princess, and the musical began to take shape. At my suggestion, David met Joe McDonough whose plays had been seen at ETC and elsewhere and whose writing I respected very much. Thus, a partnership spanning 22 years—along with 10+ other shows—began working together. Looking back on this first collaboration brings great joy; however, looking at The Frog Princess with fresh eyes was needed. David rewrote music and lyrics inspired by particular actors; likewise, Joe revised dialogue and embraced the sound of new voices speaking the script. Up to and through previews, changes were made, changes as a team, devoted to telling the story of a young man who needs to look beyond himself with kind eyes and find his destiny. The release of Vasilisa from evil represents the way we all can release the bitterness in our hearts and replace it with love and hope. It sounds simple, but as each day brings a challenge, remaining hopeful can be hard. You, as members of the Ensemble, contribute by your attendance to spread the seeds sown here. You are kindness ambassadors who can take this message of love and forgiveness out into the community and help create a 2020 that begins anew with kindness, not criticism, at its core. I am honored by your presence here and your KIND support. From 12 children at the first Fairy Godmother show, to nearly 2,000 this year, you are helping establish a kinder world which these children will rule. May blessings, joy, and kindness find you in the new year. Thank you for being a blessing to us at Ensemble Theatre, your premiere theatre, where we are dedicated to telling stories today to create better tomorrows.

D. Lynn Meyers

director's notes | 17


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SUMMEr STOCK 2020 MAKES A GREAT HOLIDAY GIFT!


etc essentials A FREE conversation series with local scholars and community members that explores the themes and context of our productions.

Fortune DOWN FOR THE ACCOUNT  |  FEB 9, 2020 @ 1:00 PM Think number-crunching is boring? Think again! Real-world CPAs relay some of their most off-the-wall tales from the treacherous front lines of accounting. Pipeline CINCINNATI'S PIPELINE  |  MARCH 29, 2020 @ 1:00 PM A meaningful discussion with educators and students about how the school-to-prison pipeline affects our local community and what's being done to break the cycle. Photograph 51 FROM STEM TO STREAM  |  MAY 10, 2020 @ 1:00 PM Hear from local scientists, teachers, and arts advocates regarding STEM learning and the importance of arts and reading integration into the sciences. 20th Century Blues OH SNAP!  |  JUNE 21, 2020 @ 1:00 PM Local panelists bring photographers' lifelong projects into focus with an accompanying installation of local artists' work.

Admission is FREE but reservations are required! Limited space | Reserve through the ETC Box Office director's notes | 19


PLAY IN PROGRESS

Darnell Pierre Benjamin, Lexi Muller (background) & Josh Beasley Brooke Steele

Patrick Earl Phillips, Alexia Vlahos, Darnell Pierre Benjamin, & Michael G. Bath

Josh Beasley, Patrick Earl Phillips, Darnell Pierre Benjamin, Burgess Byrd, & Michael G. Bath

20 | play in progress


PLAY IN PROGRESS

Patrick Earl Phillips & Brooke Steele

Alexia Vlahos, Kayla Marie Klammer, Rachael M. Petranek, Brooke Steele, & Michael G. Bath

Patrick Earl Phillips

Sara Mackie, Rachael M. Petranek, Lexi Muller, Kayla Marie Klammer, & Lisa DeRoberts

play in progress | 21


The

Frog Princess: THEN & NOW

Do

you want to know the origin of the The Frog Princess story? Let’s hop into the history of this magical tale, and learn where it all began! The original telling of this unique story has roots in various places across the world, but this version of the story started in Russia. Based on two different stories— The Tsarevna Frog and Vasilisa the Wise—Ensemble's Frog Princess tells the story of three sons who are told by the Tsar that they must marry. Each son finds a bride by shooting an arrow, but Prince Ivan finds out that his wife-to-be is a frog! The prince and his bride face numerous challenges set by the Tsar, run into the eccentric, old witch Baba Yaga, take on the treacherous Old Bones, and more! But how did this story evolve from its first incarnation and the last time it was presented on ETC's stage in 2007 to today? And where else does this story appear? Local creative team Joseph McDonough (playwright) and David Kisor (lyricist and composer) joined forces in 1997 to create a musical that told this classic fairy tale in a new way. In fact, The Frog Princess was the very first of ETC's musical adaptations to leap from page to stage and began the theatre's tradition of a non-denominational offering during the holiday season that could be enjoyed by families together.

22 | play in progress


David and Joe studied numerous representations of this story over time, read children’s books, and found all of the information that they could about the classic story to build this musical more than 20 years ago. Carefully crafting a cast of characters, a similar plot to the original fairytale, and curating a magical score to go with the dialogue, they had their story and put it on the stage. Since they originally put the show on stage, years have passed and times have changed since 2007 when ETC last performed it. So, this season the creative pair worked with ETC's Producing Artistic Director D. Lynn Meyers to spice up the script and bring it into 2019. They tweaked the music, some of the conversations, and brought things up to today while holding true to the time-honored folk-tale. So where else can you find the story of The Frog Princess? Well, if you’ve ever heard of Baba Yaga, there are countless stories about this witch who lives in a house built on chicken legs. But there are also loads of children’s books that tell the tale of Baba Yaga and Vasilisa, PLUS there’s even a Disney movie that slightly touches on the story. If you’ve seen The Princess and the Frog featuring Princess Tiana, you’ve seen a story similar to the musical, but not the same! Through the various retellings over many years, the themes of love, kindness, and perseverance have endured, demonstrating that tales like The Frog Princess will continue to be told in unique ways across cultures. Enjoy the show and have a hoppy holiday season!

play in progress | 23


The cast of Cinderella: After Ever After (2016). Photo by Mikki Schaffner.

GET CLOSER TO THE THEATRE YOU LOVE

Join The Producers for exclusive events and experiences that bring you closer to all the magic on and off stage!

THE PRODUCERS Roger Abell Lucy Allen Jane Anderson Marcia Banker & Jeffrey Schloemer Judith Bausher David & Gale Beckett Louis & Judy Belli Michael Berry & Melanie Garner* Holly Brians Ragusa Jacklyn & Gary Bryson Otto M. Budig Jr. Barbara Carr* & Bren Blaine James Cissell & Carolyn Ford Brian & Elizabeth Coley Pamela & Charles Colman Philip & Anne Cone Julie York Coppens Kelly Dehan Kathy DeLaura Margaret DeMichelis Mary Donaldson* Maureen Flanagan & Will Groneman Linda & Gary Greenberg

Karlee Hilliard Emily M. Hodges & Charles H. Spencer Linda Holthaus* & Richard Zinicola Betty Huck* Dan & Karen Hurley Diane & Carl Iseman Robert Keith & Kathleen Thornton-Keith Jackie Mack & Edward Silberstein David Martin Audrey Meyers Allen Middleton David & Diane Moccia* Norah & Joe Mock Michael Murphy Barbara K. Myers Patricia Myers & Alan Flaherty Betty Prince Carol Purnell Lester Ratcliff Alva & Leon Reid Steven & Carol* Reubel

Danielle Revelson Jerri Roberts & Jim Thomas Lynn Ryan Susan* & Clint Schertzer Eli Shupe & Toby Ruben Paul Sittenfeld Norma Skoog Martha Spiess Richard Staudigel Paula Steiner Julie Stothfang Glenda Suttman Steve Thomas & Susan Lora Alan Ullman Margaret & Michael Valentine Terry & Pann Webb Annette Wick & Mark Manley James & Ronna* Willis Joseph & Patricia* Witson Dennis & Patti Worthen *Steering committe member

Visit www.ensemblecincinnati.org to learn more about becoming a member of The Producers.


READ ON.

HEADER B

Materials inspired by The Frog Princess, courtesy of

The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County.

BOOKS

MOVIES

Baba Yaga and Vasilisa the Brave

Stardust The Dark Crystal Fractured Fairy Tales

by Marianna Mayerz (Book)

Russian Fairy Tales retold by Gillian Avery (Book)

Fairy Tale Comics: Classic Tales Told by Extraordinary Cartoonists edited by Chris Duffy (Graphic Novel)

Damsels, Volumes 1 & 2 by Leah Moore (Online Graphic Novel)

CD Disney's Princess Tea Party Rimsky-Korsakov: Sheherazade All materials available through your local library branch.

Faeries

by Brian Froud (Book)

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THE FAIRY GODMOTHER PROGRAM "HELLO, GINNY!" We begin each Fairy Godmother performance with this enthusiastic greeting to honor Ginny Hoffman, ETC's very own Fairy Godmother. The Fairy Godmother Program was founded in the memory and celebration of Ginny, an actress and theatre educator who shined on our stage from 1987 until her death in 1993. Ginny’s lasting legacy comes from her work with and dedication to children. Like the fairy godmothers she portrayed in many of our holiday productions, Ginny had a special place in her heart for sharing theatre with kids, which is why The Fairy Godmother Program not only gives the magic of theatre to children in our community, but also provides them with transportation to and from the show, a healthy snack at intermission, take-home and classroom enrichment activities, and a meet and greet with the cast. Join the celebration as we mark this program's 26th Anniversary by donating today. Gifts from YOU, our present-day fairy godparents, invite nearly 2,000 children throughout our community to attend the holiday show each year, many of whom are experiencing live theatre for the first time. To contribute today, give your cash or check to a cast member after the show or visit the box office to give via credit card. You can also donate online at www.ensemblecincinnati.org/support/donations, or by calling (513) 421-3555, option 4. Thank you for honoring Ginny's life and work by supporting this cherished program.

Claire Slemmer, Ginny Hoffman, & Ophelia Kelly Azariah in The Sleeping Beauty, 1990. Photo by Sandy Underwood.


Learn more at www.artacademy.edu/150

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May 12 - 24

June 9 - 21

TICKETS START AT $31

All shows at the Aronoff Center • CincinnatiArts.org Groups (10+) Save: 513.369.4363

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CAST BIOS MICHAEL G. BATH (Boris/Baba Yaga) returns for his 23rd holiday show with Ensemble Theatre, where he most recently appeared in Alice in Wonderland, Fly By Night, and The Dancing Princesses. Some of his favorite ETC credits include The Exonerated, Opus, Mauritius, Becky’s New Car, My Name is Asher Lev, Next Fall, and End Days. He is a Wilmington College graduate and a proud member of Actors’ Equity Association. Much love to his wife Trish and dog Obi. JOSH BEASLEY (ERG) studied at Wright State University, graduating with a BFA in Acting. He is a Cincinnati native and is grateful to be working with Ensemble Theatre as part of the this season's Professional Acting Apprentice Program. His past productions include The Fox on the Fairway and To Kill a Mockingbird at the Millbrook Playhouse in Pennsylvania, as well as A Fiddler on the Roof, The Pillowman and As It Falls at WSU. DARNELL PIERRE BENJAMIN (Nicholai/Wise Man) is always excited to join the Ensemble Theatre family, where some of his previous credits include Alice in Wonderland, The Dancing Princesses, The Legend of Georgia McBride, and Detroit '67. He was recently seen on stage in Titus Andronicus and Miss Holmes at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company and choreographed for Know Theatre of Cincinnati's production of The Absentee. Darnell is also a professor at CCM and a board member with local dance group, Pones, and Stop the Stigma Productions. He is also a proud AEA member. BURGESS BYRD (Tsar/Bear) is delighted to return to Ensemble Theatre for her first holiday production since Around the World in 80 Days in the 1999-2000 Season, during which time she was an Acting Intern. Over the years, she has been fortunate to have had a theatrical career right here in Cincinnati. She was recently seen as Faye Davison in Skeleton Crew at ETC and was a guest artist at the University of Texas at Austin in the critically-acclaimed Merchant of Venice as Shylock. Happy Holidays!

#ETC1920 #FROGPRINCESS

@ENSEMBLECINCY 28 | cast bios


CAST BIOS LISA DeROBERTS (Svetlana/Falcon) is delighted to be playing with her Ensemble Theatre family this holiday season, where her credits include Ripcord, Snow White, and Cinderella. Other favorites credits include Susan Swayne and the Bewildered Bride, The Darkest Night at the Gnarly Stump, and Hearts Like Fists at Know Theatre of Cincinnati and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company. Lisa can be seen in the feature films The Old Man and the Gun and My Days of Mercy. She is a proud AEA and SAGAFTRA member. Lisa is ever grateful for the support of Lynn, her friends, family, Mike Sherman, and three fur-babies. Learn more about her acting journey and marketing skills at www.lisaderoberts.com. Instagram: @lisabobisa113 DEB G. GIRDLER (Old Bones) began her career on the Showboat Majestic, attended UC’s College-Conservatory of Music, and has worked Off-Broadway, in regional theatre, and in summer stock for over forty years. Some of her favorite productions at Ensemble Theatre include Good People, Three Viewings, Three Tall Women, and The Last Session; her favorite roles also include playing the villainess in many ETC holiday productions. Deb is listed in the official scripts of several shows as a cast member of the premiere productions, including the stage version of Rogers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, Hoodwinked!  The Musical, and It Runs in the Family. She can be seen in the films Carol with Cate Blanchett and First Kill with Bruce Willis. KAYLA MARIE KLAMMER (Night Maiden) is ecstatic to return to Ensemble Theatre, where she was last seen as #13 in The Wolves and Bob: A Life in Five Acts as a member of last season's Professional Acting Apprentice Program. Kayla studied Theatre Performance and Dance at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. She has performed throughout the country with different theaters, and spent seven months in Costa Rica interning with a nonprofit organization. She also works with the ETC Education Department as a teaching artist for the Hunter Heartbeat Program. Thanks to her family for their support near and far, her friends for dealing with her crazy schedule, Lynn, and the entire ETC team for letting her be a part of this magical world! www.kaylamarieklammer.com. SARA MACKIE (Natasha/Pike) is an alumna of the Wright State Acting BFA and a proud Equity member. She is fortunate to have been a part of Fun Home at Ensemble Theatre, where she has performed in many productions since 1999, including Hands on a Hardbody, all three Wonderette iterations, Rabbit Hole, and Mauritius, among others. Some other favorite regional credits include An Act of God, Twelfth Night, Family Ties, Pump Boys and Dinettes, and Frankie and Johnny in the Claire de Lune. Sara appears briefly in the feature films The Public and Dark Waters. She thanks Lynn and all of Ensemble's family and friends. Love to Michael and the girls, and hats off to you all for supporting live, local, professional theatre. www.saramackie.com.

cast bios | 29


CAST BIOS RACHAEL M. PETRANEK (Night Maiden) is a native of Cincinnati, and a member of Ensemble Theatre’s 2019-2020 Professional Acting Apprentice Program. Rachael graduated from Xavier University with a BA in Theatre Performance and completed a graduate semester at American Conservatory Theatre in San Francisco for contemporary acting. Some of her favorite credits includ Cabaret, The Music Man, Into the Woods, and Company. She would like to thank her family, loved ones, mentors at ETC, and Stephen for pushing her to grow as a professional actor. PATRICK EARL PHILLIPS (Ivan) is elated to be back onstage at Ensemble Theatre, where he was an Acting Intern during the 20142015 Season. He received his BA in Theatre from Xavier University and is a proud member of Actors' Equity Association. His ETC credits include Fly By Night, This Random World, Bloomsday, Cinderella: After Ever After, Violet, and Luna Gale. Other regional credits include Titus Andronicus and Twelfth Night, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company; Mercury, Know Theatre; and Around the World in 80 Days, Human Race Theatre. Patrick would like to thank Lynn for this wonderful opportunity. He sends love to his friends, family, Julia, and his beautiful daughters Anita and Maura! www.PatrickEPhillips.com. BROOKE STEELE (Vasilisa) is grateful to be spending the holidays with Ensemble Theatre, where she was most recently seen as the Cheshire Cat in Alice in Wonderland. Some of her favorite ETC credits include Violet in Violet, Miriam in Fly by Night, and Suzy Simpson in The Marvelous Wonderettes. Brooke lives in Kennedy Heights with her husband, two daughters, and a little black dog.

ALEXIA VLAHOS (Night Maiden) is thrilled to be a member of Ensemble Theatre’s Professional Acting Apprentice Program. She is a graduate of Wright State University’s BFA Acting Program. Some of her favorite credits include The Normal Heart, The Grapes of Wrath, Two Noble Kinsmen, The Fall of Troy, and You Can’t Take It With You. During her time at WSU, she had the pleasure of being involved in new works including 22 and More Than a Muse. Alexia would like to thank her family, friends, and teachers for their constant love and support. NORA WEISZ (ERL) is thrilled to be working with Ensemble Theatre as a member of the Professional Acting Apprentice Program. She studied Theatre Education with minors in Special Education and Environmental Studies at Xavier University, where some of her credits include Into the Woods, Mr. Burns: A Post-Electric Play, and Company. She would like to thank her family, mentors, and ETC for this opportunity as she begins her professional theatre career.

30 | cast bios


1125 BAR Series DEC 13

Holiday cocktails

JAN 31

White wines

MARCH 20 MAY 1 JUNE 12

Red wines Bourbon Sparkling wines

TICKETS: $25 per subscriber per tasting; $30 for non-subscribers Drink selections and light bites curated by:

TICKETS AVAILABLE THROUGH THE ETC BOX OFFICE

For more content about this production of The Frog Princess, including videos, behind-the-scenes photos, interviews and more, visit ensemblecincinnati.org

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CREATIVE & DIRECTOR BIOS JOSEPH McDONOUGH (Playwright) has collaborated with David Kisor on ETC’s holiday musicals for over twenty seasons. Several of these shows have been published by Playscripts and Theatrical Rights Worldwide. His plays have also been produced locally by Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, and The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati, as well as at many other theaters around the country. His new play Ordinary Americans (about blacklisted early television pioneers Gertrude Berg and Philip Loeb) will receive its world premiere this December and January as a co-production by Palm Beach Dramaworks and GableStage in Miami, Florida. His one act play Solace was recently produced in New York as part of the Wet Paint Festival. He is a proud member of the Dramatists Guild.

DAVID KISOR (Composer & Lyricist) has participated as a composer, lyricist, and music director in thirty seasons of Ensemble Theatre’s history. He has been part of the creative team for Adrift, The Frog Princess, Sleeping Beauty, Around the World in 80 Days, Cinderella: After Ever After, as well as his quasi-autobiographical Cars, Dogs, Money and the Moon, and many more. He is the Creative Director of Growing Sound, a non-profit music publisher, and the Music Director at the New Thought Unity Center. When he is not working on a new play or giving concerts and workshops, David can usually be found on the floor, singing with preschoolers somewhere in greater Cincinnati.

D. LYNN MEYERS (Director) is the Producing Artistic Director of Ensemble Theatre, where she has directed more than 100 world and regional premieres, including Fun Home, The Wolves, Ripcord, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, The Legend of Georgia McBride, Hands on a Hardbody, Detroit ’67, I Am My Own Wife, Next to Normal, and The Dancing Princesses. She began her career as the Associate Artistic Director at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, has directed Off-Broadway at the York Theatre, and has directed extensively throughout the US and Canada. As a member of the Casting Society of America, Lynn's recent feature credits include Carol, The Old Man & the Gun, and The Public in addition to serving as the Location Casting Director for The Shawshank Redemption. She was named a finalist for the Zelda Fichandler National Award in 2011, is a past recipient of the YWCA Career Woman of Achievement Award, and recipient of the 2018 Rosa F. and Samuel B. Sachs Fund Prize for her regional arts impact and leadership.

32 | creative & director bios


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PRODUCTION BIOS BRIAN c. MEHRING (Set & Lighting Designer) has designed more than 100 productions at Ensemble Theatre. His favorite productions include Thom Pain (based on nothing), Next to Normal, 33 Variations, Freud's Last Session, and I Am My Own Wife. Mr. Mehring’s regional favorites for set design include The Last 5 Years and I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park; Henry IV, Part 1, The Georgia Shakespeare Festival; and I Am My Own Wife, Actors Theatre of Louisville, Peterborough Players, and Florida Studio Theatre.

MARY MURPHY (Costume Designer) is pleased to return to ETC to design The Frog Princess, having designed the original production in 1997. She has designed numerous productions for ETC over the years, most recently His Eye is on the Sparrow. She puts her talent to work most days as a freelance wardrobe stylist for video/film production and still photography. Recent film credits as a costumer include Carol, Miles Ahead, The Public, and Mercy, and as the designer for Hallmark’s A Christmas Melody. A native of Baltimore, Maryland, Mary obtained her BA in Theater from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia and has worked in various aspects of costuming for the entertainment industry for over forty years.

MATT CALLAHAN (Sound Designer) was the Resident Sound Designer for Actors Theatre of Louisville for seven seasons. His most recent designs for Ensemble Theatre include Fun Home, Ripcord, Fly By Night, St. Nicholas, and Hedwig and the Angry Inch. Mr. Callahan was also a co-creator/designer of Rock n’ Roll: The Reunion Tour. He spent two seasons as the Resident Sound Designer at The Eugene O’Neil Center for their National Playwrights Conference. He was formerly the sound engineer for Steppenwolf Theatre, the Assistant Engineer for Blue Man Chicago, and a member of the disbanded Defiant Theatre. He received a Jeff Citation for Red Dragon, a nomination for Fortinbras, and a Kevin Kline nomination for Sherlock Holmes.

KELLY YURKO (Wig & Makeup Designer) has been the head of the Makeup and Wig Design program at University of Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music since 2001, where her designs have been seen in several productions including Into the Woods, Hair, and Evita. She has worked on several productions at Ensemble Theatre, including Violet, (all of) The Marvelous Wonderettes, The Whipping Man, Mrs. Mannerly, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, and many more. Her work has been seen at The Wolf Trap Opera, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, Cincinnati Ballet, Cincinnati Opera, Wright State University, Hartford Stage Company, Actors Theatre of Louisville, Indiana Reperatory Theatre, Denver Theatre Center, Ford’s Theatre, Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, and Kentucky Opera.

34 | production bios


PRODUCTION BIOS DEE ANNE BRYLL (Choreographer) is very pleased to return to Ensemble Theatre, where her credits include Alice in Wonderland, The Dancing Princesses, Cinderella: After Ever After, and Cinderella, among others. Additional credits include work at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, Xavier University Theatre, The Carnegie, Cincinnati Landmark Theatre, Kings Island, and Commonwealth Theatre Company. Dee Anne has been a director/choreographer for Life Could Be a Dream, Five Women Wearing the Same Dress, The Sound of Music, Chicago, Falsettos, Parade, Big River, Singin’ in the Rain, Ragtime, and Some Enchanted Evening. She won a 2006 CEA for her performance as Maggie Jones in 42nd Street. She and her husband, Edward Cohen, were awarded the 2010 Acclaim Trailblazer Award for contributions to Cincinnati theatre. She was awarded the 2015 Freddie G. Broadway Junior Spirit Award presented and sponsored by Freddie Gershon (CEO of Music Theatre International) and his wife Myrna. She holds faculty positions at Northern Kentucky University and Xavier University and is Artistic Project Mentor for JumpStart Theatre-Cincinnati.

STEVE GOERS (Music Director) is thrilled to return as music director at Ensemble Theatre. He has worked on previous Ensemble productions of Fun Home, The Great American Trailer Park Musical, and Grey Gardens as conductor and keyboardist. He is an Adjunct Professor on the CCM Musical Theatre faculty and has worked with theatres throughout the region, including Playhouse in the Park and Children's Theatre of Cincinnati, as well as national and international tours. Steve has composed and orchestrated numerous works for theater and film including world premiere adaptations of Where the Wild Things Are, Peter Pan and Wendy, and the awardwinning feature film Over-the-Rhine. He is a graduate of the DePaul University School of Music and the University of Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music.

SHANNON RAE LUTZ (Properties Master/Design Assistant) earned her Master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music in 1996 and became Properties Master at Ensemble Theatre. Trained as a performer, she first appeared on ETC’s stage during the 1988-1989 New Works Festival. In 1991, she was granted an ETC internship. Now the Director of Apprentice Programming, she is honored to guide ETC’s essential ensemble: The Professional Acting Apprentice Company. Shannon would like to thank D. Lynn Meyers, Ruth Sawyer, and the Cincinnati theatre community and patrons for their generous, supportive, and tenacious spirit.

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PRODUCTION BIOS JACK MURPHY (Technical Director) is excited to be in his seventh season at Ensemble Theatre. He grew up in the Cincinnati area and studied technical theatre at Hanover College. While there, he spent his summers at several different summer stock theatres including Georgia Shakespeare Company and the Brevard Music Center’s Janiec Opera Company as a carpenter. After graduation, he moved to Bellport, NY to work for The Gateway Playhouse as a carpenter and rigger, and he went on to work for Norwegian Cruise Line. After another summer at the Janiec Opera Company, he came full circle and returned home to Cincinnati. Jack is eager to continue to do the cutting edge work ETC is known for and has enjoyed working on such productions as An Iliad, Grounded, and The Humans. BRANDON T. HOLMES (Production Stage Manager) is in his eighth season with Ensemble Theatre. Past regional credits include Newsies, Legally Blonde and West Side Story, Lexington Theatre Company; Hello, Dolly!, The Drowsy Chaperone and Side by Side by Sondheim, LOOK Musical Theatre; and more than 20 productions with Music Theatre Wichita including Sunset Boulevard, Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Miss Saigon, and Les Misérables, as well as productions with Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park including Thunder Knocking on the Door, Merrily We Roll Along (directed by John Doyle), and A Christmas Carol. Other favorite credits include Tribes, A Chorus Line, The Music Man, and The Legend of Georgia McBride. Love to his wonderful family and his fiancé, AJ, for their continued love and support. He is a proud member of Actors’ Equity Association. LEXI MULLER (Assistant Stage Manager) is delighted to be in her second season with Ensemble Theatre, where her previous credits include Sex and Education, Fun Home, The Wolves, Skeleton Crew, A Dolls House, Part 2, Ripcord, and Fly by Night. Other regional credits include Sex with Strangers, The House, Legendale, and 26 Pebbles with the Human Race Theatre. She is a proud member of Actors' Equity Association and a graduate of Wright State University, where she received her BFA in Stage Management. She would like to thank her friends, family, and her extraordinary mother for supporting her every step of the way. RAE KUHN (Scenic Charge Artist/Production Assistant) is thrilled to be in their fourth season at Ensemble Theatre. Rae graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a Multidisciplinary degree focusing on fine arts, creative writing, and neuropsychology, however, technical theatre has been a hobby since high school. Rae is a former scenic artist for 3DX, and has worked in stage management, sound engineering, and special effects makeup for organizations including New Edgecliff Theatre, Falcon Theatre, and Cincinnati Landmark Productions. Rae began to paint backdrops for ETC's Education Department, which led to their current position at the theatre, where some favorite credits include Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Bloomsday, and When We Were Young and Unafraid.

36 | production bios


WAYS TO GIVE From playwrights to apprentices, and every role in between, your tax-deductible gift to ETC enables us to enlighten, enliven, enrich, and inspire audiences as well as create a thriving urban arts community accessible to all through our world and regional premiere productions and award-winning Education, Engagement, and Inclusion programs. Become a member of our Ensemble today!

DONATE TODAY

The box office will be happy to accept your gift via cash, check, or credit card during intermission or after the show.

DONATE ONLINE

To make your gift online, visit www.ensemblecincinnati.org/ support/donations.

DONATE WITH STOCK

For instructions on stock transfers, email development@ensemblecincinnati.org.

DONATE BY PHONE

Please call (513) 421–3555 and select option 4 to speak with Laura or Josh.

DONATE BY MAIL

Send a check made out to Ensemble Theatre with "donation" in the memo line to: Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati Attn: Development 1127 Vine Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202

BECOME AN ENSEMBLE SUSTAINING DONOR Join an essential group of donors who contribute on a recurring basis throughout the year, providing a steady and predictable stream of income to support programming and operations. Most choose monthly amounts charged to a credit card, but options can be customized to meet your giving goals and needs. Email development@ensemblecincinnati.org to become a Sustaining Donor today.

GIVE WHILE YOU SHOP As you prepare for the holidays (and all year round!), designate ETC as your nonprofit beneficiary through the Kroger Community Rewards and AmazonSmile programs. It's easy: you shop, Kroger and Amazon donate a portion of your purchase amount directly to ETC, that's it!

Register your Kroger Plus Card at www.kroger.com and select ETC–organization BM374.

Visit smile.amazon.com/ch/31-1220252 and use your normal Amazon login each time you shop.

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THE PREMIERE SOCIETY The Premiere Society recognizes the extraordinary individuals, families, and organizations whose generosity makes it possible for ETC to present world-class new works and awardwinning education, engagement, and inclusion programming for our community. The following list includes donors whose gifts were received between October 31, 2018 and October 31, 2019.

PLAYWRIGHTS ($20,000+) Anonymous ArtsWave Gale & Dave Beckett† The Otto M. Budig Family Foundation†‡ The City of Cincinnati† Burton & Susan Closson†‡ The Charles H. Dater Foundation, Inc. Harry & Linda Fath† William A. Friedlander Fund*†‡ The Carol Ann & Ralph V. Haile, Jr./ US Bank Foundation† The Mitchell S. & Jacqueline P. Meyers Foundation† Ohio Arts Council P&G Fund*‡ PNC Foundation Richard Postler & Manuel Hernandez Josephine S. Russell Charitable Trust, through the PNC Charitable Trusts Grant Review Committee The Schueler Group The Shubert Foundation, Inc. State of Ohio through the Cultural Facilities Commission† The Sutphin Family Foundation‡ The Louise Taft Semple Foundation Ms. Carol Talbot† Western & Southern Financial Fund‡

PRODUCERS ($10,000-$19,999) Anonymous Mark & Wendy Armstrong Tom & Annette Carothers† GBBN Architects John & Gloria Goering Family Gift Fund The Donald C. & Laura M. Harrison Family Foundation* William & Mary Jane James†‡ Messer Construction Co.† The Daniel & Susan Pfau Foundation Moe & Jack Rouse Digi & Mike Schueler Mary Stagaman & Ron Kull† Paul & Jill Staubitz The Dudley S. Taft Charitable Foundation Dale & Joyce Uetrecht Irwin & Barbara Weinberg

Please bring any errors or omissions to our attention by contacting Josh Neumeyer: jneumeyer@ensemblecincinnati.org or (513) 421-3555 x2104.

38 | the premiere society

DIRECTORS ($5,000-$9,999) William P. Anderson Foundation Holly Brians Ragusa & Damon Ragusa Denise & Martin Chambers Corky & Rick Family Foundation Crosset Family Fund* Ehrsam Family Fund*‡ Kay & Jack Geiger Jane & Chip Gerhardt†‡ Graeter's Elsa Heisel Sule Foundation Betty Huck‡ Stephen King & Lynne Miller† Macy's Mr. & Mrs. David E. Moccia‡ Caroline Richards Elizabeth Sawyer Selnick Fund* The Sittenfeld Family†‡ Thompson Hine LLP The Dennis B. & Patricia L. Worthen Fund‡

DESIGNERS ($2,500-$4,999) Anonymous Holli Alexander Nicholas Apanius† Marcia A. Banker & Jeffrey S. Schloemer‡ Karen & Christopher Bowman Jonathan & Kristine Garrett Alana & Shelly Gerson‡ Suzanne Hasl‡ Marilyn P. & Joseph W. Hirschhorn Fund* Emily M. Hodges & Charles H. Spencer‡ Lorrence T. & Barbara W. Kellar Fund*‡ LPK† Anu & Shekhar Mitra David & Judith Morgan Fund* Neal Patel & Dr. Avani Modi†‡ Paycor Jackie Reau, Game Day Communications‡ Steven & Carol Reubel Digi & Mike Schueler Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP‡

STAGE MANAGERS ($1,000-$2,499) Anonymous (2) Gordon Allen & Linda Baas‡ Americana Arts Foundation Kathleen Bellamy


Malcolm A. & Glenda Bernstein‡ Michael Berry & Melanie Garner† The Blatt Family Fund Alicia Bond-Lewis & Chris Lewis Charlene Breidster Dale P. Brown‡ Ken & Joan Campbell Barbara Carr & Bren Blaine Brenda & Steve Carter William & Catherine Cody College Hill Coffee Co. & Casual Gourmet Meredythe G. & Clayton C. Daley, Jr. Family Fund* Mark Dauner§ Kathy DeLaura & Ron Steinhoff‡ Fencl Family Fund* Mary Fiorini Bob & Mary Fitzpatrick‡ GE Foundation Matching Gifts Program Rita & Dennis Geiger† Bob Gerding Judith B. Green & Thomas M. McDonough Linda Greenberg Fund* Helen & John Habbert‡ Irving Harris‡ Bob & Judy Heaton Marilyn F. Hill Karlee Hilliard Florette Hoffheimer Linda Holthaus & Richard Zinicola§ Erin Houlihan & John Bostick‡ Johnson Investment Counsel

Robert Keith & Kathleen Thornton Keith Tom & Sue Kirkpatrick David Logan & Dale Hodges David Martin Allen R. Middleton & Gary A. Daniels‡§ Norah & Joe Mock Dr. Patricia O'Connor Marilyn Z. Ott The Reed Family Foundation Hera G. Reines Charles Scott Riley III Foundation Blake Robison & Connan Morrissey George & Caroll Roden Marvin & Betsy Schwartz Fund* Paula Steiner Summertime Kids Fund* Glenda Suttman† Bob & Sue Trusty Steve F. Warkany Fund* Jo Ann Wieghaus‡ Andi Levenson Young & Scott Young Glenda Suttman† Steve F. Warkany Fund* Jo Ann Wieghaus‡ Andi Levenson Young & Scott Young Mike & Liz Zimmer† * A Fund of The Greater Cincinnati Foundation † Capital Campaign Donor ‡ Next Great Act Donor § Sustaining Donor

the premiere society | 39


CAST ($500-$999) Anonymous (6) Chuck Altenau Judith C. Bausher Mike & Juliette Bezold Walter Blair† Mary & William Bonansinga Charitable Family Fund* Philip Clayton Contributing Board Member Andrew F. Cone David Crotty & Joan von Handorf Susannah Davids & Steve Myer‡ Kelly M. Dehan Kathryn J. DeLong Jan Denton Douglas & Sara Dicken Carol S. Friel Donn Goebel & Cathy McLeod§ Debra Hartsell & Michael James Daniel Hurley Keith & Patti James Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies Matching Gifts Program Arleene Keller‡ Carmen & Rich Kovarsky Kroger Community Rewards Program Kuby Family Fund* Ginny & Rick Kuertz LaMacchia Family Foundation Edward & Ina Loftspring Philanthropic Fund Jackie Mack & Ted Silberstein Mark D. Manley & Annette J. Wick Patricia McKay Jill & Bruce Mitchell John & Deborah Moffatt Bill & Ruth Morley Patti Myers & Alan Flaherty James J. Nordlund Presidential Plaza Associates, LTD Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Revelson Becky & Ted Richards Stephen & Helen Rindsberg Jayna & Dan Schimberg Mike & Laconia Smith John & Martha Spiess Dee Stegman Elizabeth Stites & Kevin Randall The Sweeny Family Charitable Fund, in honor of Jack & Kit Overbeck Marcia Togneri Nancye & Thomas Van Brunt‡ Jennifer Verkamp Maureen & Larry Vignola Ronna & James Willis Charitable Fund Wuerdeman Family Fund* Nora Zorich & Thomas Filardo Family Fund*

Please bring any errors or omissions to our attention by contacting Josh Neumeyer: jneumeyer@ensemblecincinnati.org or (513) 421-3555 x2104.

40 | the premiere society

RUNNING CREW ($250-$499) Anonymous (4) Christine Adams Amy Alig Henrietta Barlag‡ Allen Bernard David & Elaine Billmire William & Eileen Bishop Family Fund Dabby Blatt Mark Bowen§ Daniel Brown & Mark Haggard Bryson Family Charitable Fund Ann & Lee Bulger Jeff & Gay Bullock Susan Cohen & Robert Schmuelling Brian & Elizabeth Coley Margaret & Joseph Conway Jennifer & M. Vito Damiano Paul & Bev Diamond§ Mary & Scott Donaldson Emilie & David Dressler Fund* Igor & Jane Dumbadze Dennis & Catherine Dunwoodie§ Charles & Harriet Edwards Maureen Flanagan & Will Groneman Jim & Robin Huizenga Diane & Carl Iseman Charles D. King Warren Leight John & Pat Leikhim Limestone Fund*† J.B. Lutz Family§ Jane MacKnight & Dennis Johnson Kenneth T. & Molly M. Mahler Scott & Kim Moening Josh Neumeyer Paul & Mary Ann Odegard Janyt Pockros Sara H. Pritchard Lester Ratcliff George & Joan Rebeck Al Roane§ Jerri Roberts & Jim Thomas Rich & Jess Roedersheimer Marianne R. Rowe Fund* J.R. Rulon§ Richard Russell Martha & Lee Schimberg Abby & David Schwartz Jane Bogart Sellers§ Bryan Shick Eli E. Shupe, Jr. & Toby Ruben§ Susan & David Smith Sara & Gunter Storjohann§ Steve Thomas & Susan Lora Marty Tomb Alan Ullman Rosalie P. van Nuis† Priscilla S. Walford Buzz Ward†‡ Ann & Victor Warner


THANK YOU TO ALL OUR DONORS! To join our family of contributors with a donation of any size, please contact Josh Neumeyer: (513) 421-3555 x2104 Pann & Terry Webb§ Lois Widlansky Jay & Kate Wilford Kathryn Wright§

APPRENTICES ($125-$249) Anonymous (10) Jim & Janice Amatulli AmazonSmile Foundation Patricia K. Beggs Judith & Louis Belli The Bloch Family Fund Anna Braam Clint Bramkamp & Sheila Mudd Baker David Brashear‡ Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation Matching Gift Program Christine & Alan Brown Dawn & Doug Bruestle§ Dee Anne Bryll & Ed Cohen Michele & Kevin Cain§ Anne E. Charles, in memory of Richard Charles & Rebecca Parker Sally Chatfield Dunn James Cissell & Carolyn Ford Carol C. Cole Charles & Pamela Colman Julie York Coppens Lee Crooks & Bill Menrath Barbara Cummins Charles K. Eckert Jerome & Jean Eichert‡ Barbara Feldmann Janice Flanagan & Bob Amott Sandi Gans§ Eugenie Goggin Lois Gushin Mary Pat & Jeff Harris Gwen Heilbrun Ann Hicks Barbara A. Jennings Janice Kagermeier Dr. James & Harriette Katz Charles & Jennifer Margolis‡ Anita & Ed Marks† Anne McAdams Julia B. Meister F. Lee Meyer Dr. & Mrs. Richard A. Meyer Drs. Jacqueline & Steven Miller Family Mark Mitchell

Neda & Bruce Nutley Ms. Kathleen O'Connell & Dr. H. Kenneth Peterson Nancy L. Phelan Patrick & Julia Phillips David M. Piatt Fund * Lyle & Jean Ritze Fred & Sondra Ross Mark Silbersack & Ruth Schwallie Mrs. James Simon Mary Lee & Louie Sirkin Norma Skoog Jamie Smith Keven Speece† Jerry Stein Fred & Anne Straus Charitable Fund Dennis & Helen Sullivan J. Michael & Patricia Thierauf Yvonne & Art Thomas Tom Umfrid & Phil Tworek Margaret & Michael Valentine Joseph Wessling Dick & Debbie Westheimer Karen Wittenberg§

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati acknowledges the following Partner Companies, Foundations and their employees who generously participate in the Annual ArtsWave Community Campaign at the $100,000+ level. Your support helps make our community vibrant and connects people all across our region through the arts. Thank you! P&G Fifth Third Bank and the Fifth Third Foundation GE Cincinnati Bell Macy's The Kroger Co. Western & Southern Financial Group Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Great American Insurance Group Enquirer Media U.S. Bank Ohio National Financial Services PNC Duke Energy Cincinnati Reds Worldpay Deloitte Cincinnati Business Courier The E.W. Scripps Company and the Scripps Howard Foundation

* A Fund of The Greater Cincinnati Foundation † Capital Campaign Donor ‡ Next Great Act Donor § Sustaining Donor

the premiere society | 41


PATRON INFORMATION ETC BOX OFFICE HOURS Monday through Friday 10 am to 5 pm, and 2 hours prior to curtain. Weekend hours vary. CAMERAS & RECORDING DEVICES Actors’ Equity Association strictly prohibits the use of cameras or recording devices (including camera phones) in the theatre. ACCESSIBILITY OPTIONS ETC offers audio-described performances, ASL-interpreted performances, wheelchair accessible seating, large-print programs, assistive listening devices, and sensory sensitivity items such as noise-canceling headphones and fidgets. SENSORY-FRIENDLY PERFORMANCES Select performances offered for those with developmental disabilities and their families to enjoy the production with lighting and sound adjustments and other accommodations. SALE POLICY Single-ticket purchases are final sale with no refund. If a patron is a no-show for their reserved performance, ETC is under no obligation to reschedule his or her tickets. LATECOMERS & ADMITTANCE Latecomers are seated at the House Manager’s discretion and may be denied admission depending upon the demands or structure of a particular production. Should you need to leave the theatre during a performance, readmittance is not guaranteed. ETC reserves the right to deny admission and/ or remove any disruptive patrons from the theatre at any time. TAX CREDITS If you cannot attend your performance and cannot reschedule for another date, tickets released prior to performances by calling the ETC box office are fully deductible as a charitable contribution.

42 | patron information

1127 Vine Street circa 1927 Image courtesy of Fifth Third Bank archives.

PARKING Patrons may park at the Gateway Garage (accessible via 12th Street) or at the surface lot, both are conveniently located at the corner of Vine and 12th Streets. Parking is also available at Washington Park Garage and Mercer Commons Garage. CHILDREN Children under the age of 4 will not be admitted to productions unless otherwise advertised. Parents with disruptive children will be asked to leave the theatre. GROUPS & DISCOUNTS Groups of 8 or more can save on single-ticket prices. Student rates, rush discounts, Public Radio Perks Card, AAA, ArtsWave Pass, and educator and military member discounts available for select shows (please consult your appropriate membership(s) for details and exclusions).


@OHIOARTSCOUNCIL | #ARTSOHIO | OAC.OHIO.GOV

State and federal dollars through the Ohio Arts Council supported your arts experience today.

WHERE WILL THE ARTS TAKE YOU NEXT ? VISIT ARTSINOHIO.COM



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