ENSEMBLE THEATRE CINCINNATI
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The Otto M. Budig Family Foundation proudly supports the Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati as it explores themes of kindness and reconciliation.
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SELECT DISCOUNTS at the restaurant
VISIT US! 1324 Vine Street Cincinnati, OH 45202 American/European-style bistro in the heart of Over-the-Rhine
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513-421-5111 info@themercerotr.com www.themercerotr.com
D. Lynn Meyers, Producing Artistic Director
SEX AND EDUCATION by LISSA LEVIN Directed by DAN GUNTZELMAN
October 15 – 27, 2019 Set & Lighting Designer BRIAN c . MEHRING
Costume Designer STORMIE MAC
Intimacy Choreographer ERIN CARR
Technical Director JACK MURPHY
Sound Designer MATTHEW TIBBS‡
Assistant Sound Designer ZACH IVANS
Properties Master/Design Assistant SHANNON RAE LUTZ
Production Manager MATTHEW HOLLSTEGGE
Production Stage Manager BRANDON T. HOLMES*
Stage Manager LEXI MULLER*
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.
Produced by arrangement with Lissa Levin and The Barbara Hogenson Agency, Inc. Copyright © 2014. All rights reserved. SEX AND EDUCATION had its Professional Premiere at the Victory Theatre Center, Burbank, CA, June 2011. Artistic Directors Tom Ormeny and Maria Gobetti. Production directed by Dan Guntzelman. Originally produced by Doorway Arts Ensemble Theater Company for Kennedy Center Page-to-Stage 09 and Capitol Fringe Festival 2010, directed by Matt Ripa.
*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.
‡ Production member belongs to United Scenic Artists, Local 829, a labor union representing designers and artists in the entertainment industry. It is a nationwide autonomous Local of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
ARTIST SPONSOR The Board of Directors of Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati
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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
1125 BAR Series OCT 25
Bourbon
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 Sex and Education, including videos, behind-the-scenes photos, interviews and more, visit ensemblecincinnati.org
8 | 
CAST & CREW CAST Hannah Winters/Every Cheerleader..................................................... ESTHER CUNNINGHAM* Miss Edwards................................................................................................................... DALE HODGES* Joe Marks............................................................................................................. R. GRAHAM ROGERS
RUNNING CREW Assistant Stage Manager...............................................................................................NORA WEISZ Assistant Director....................................... JOSHUA BRIAN BEASLEY, GRIFF BLUDWORTH Assistant House Manager.......................................................................................ALEXIA VLAHOS Cheer Choreographer.............................................................................. RACHAEL M. PETRANEK Sound Operator.............................................................................................................AIDEN DALTON Light Board Operator.............................................................................JOSHUA BRIAN BEASLEY Wardrobe Head............................................................................................CHRISTIAN GUTIERREZ Wardrobe Crew......................................................................................................... KARSON McCALL Running Crew......................................................... RACHAEL M. PETRANEK, AMBER J. SMITH
UNDERSTUDIES Joe Marks........................................................................................................CHRISTIAN GUTIERREZ Miss Edwards............................................................................................................. KARSON McCALL Hannah Winters/Every Cheerleader.................................................. RACHAEL M. PETRANEK *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.
This production will be performed in one act with NO intermission. Approximate running time is 1 hour, 40 minutes.
PLEASE TURN OFF ALL CELL PHONES. NO TEXTING.
#ETC1920 #SEXANDEDUCATION
@ENSEMBLECINCY Cast & Crew | 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 Holli Alexander, Secretary 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.
@ENSEMBLECINCY INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING? Contact our team at Cincinnati Accredited member of the Better Business Bureau.
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: Joshua Brian 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
HEADER Seth Rudetsky'sA
SPECIAL EVENT
Deco nstru cting Broadway
AT ENSEMBLE THEATRE CINCINNATI
SHOWS ONLY! ✩ ✩ TWO MON, OCT 21 @ 7:00 pm & 9:00 pm Sirius/XM radio's Broadway host Seth Rudetsky brings his hilarious one-man show to ETC! Featuring his trademark deconstructions of "the good, bad, and the headache-y" of Broadway's best, Deconstructing Broadway is described as a combination of “The Tony Awards” and “The Daily Show." This award-winning show recently played to a sold-out crowd in London where it received 5-star reviews and was called “blindingly brilliant,” “fantastic,” “hysterical,” a “mustsee,” and “nothing short of brilliant!”
FOR TICKETS: 14 WWW.ENSEMBLECINCINNATI.ORG | about us | or (513) 421-3555
etc essentials A FREE conversation series with local scholars and community members that explores the themes and context of our productions.
Sex and Education A TENSE DEBATE | OCT 27, 2019 @ 1:00 PM Are you a staunch Oxford comma defender or a syntax revolutionary? Hotly contested topics include: double negatives, they as a singular pronoun, and, of course, the aforementioned and highly controversial comma drama. 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!
about us | Limited space | Reserve through the ETC Box Office
ENSEMBLE THEATRE CINCINNATI
S t udio Series Michael Blankenship's Poe -pourri 10/25 & 10/26
@ 10 pm | tickets: $25 subscribers | $30 non-subscribers
Bold notes of character with a whiff of horror, these stories and poems of Edgar Allen Poe feature the talents of Jared Joplin, Ernaisja Curry, and Michael Blankenship.
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.
READ ON. BOOKS The Basketball Diaries by Jim Carroll
Because Internet: Understanding the New Rules of Language by Gretchen McCulloch
Eats, Shoots, & Leaves: The Zero Tolerance Approch to Punctuation
Materials inspired by Sex and Education, courtesy of The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County.
The Writing Life by Anne Dillard
MOVIES
Above the Rim Coach Carter Easy A The Perks of Being a Wallflower Rushmore
by Lynne Truss
On Writing
by Stephen King
All materials available through your local library branch.
Ensemble Holiday Brunches Sat, Dec 7th & Sun, Dec 8th, 12:00 – 1:30 pm Brunch bites and drinks $35 for adults | $20 for ages 18 & under
Reservations: (513) 421-3555 or www.ensemblecincinnati.org
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Question & Answer with playwright Lissa Levin Q: What was your intention in writing
this play? Did you want to make a specific statement or point with the piece?
A:
Sex sells. It is why sex education classes were universally popular in school. No matter the wholesome name your school gave it - “Health,” “Human Development,” “Choices and Challenges,” it was Sex Ed and it held your interest. Even the accompanying study of physiology was compelling because of its context. The cardiovascular system became far more interesting once you had a hint of what increased blood flow could do. If only an English teacher could utilize this same provocative context to teach grammar, the very biology of our language. She could attract even a quintessential jock to the subject, and perhaps, younger audiences to a play about it. Hence, my comedy that cries for the state of our challenged educational system. What has happened to the taste for literature and composition? No other diet offers such fiber.
Q: Tell us your process of
conceptualizing the play and putting it on a page, then on the stage.
A: In a play about an English teacher
impressing the value of language skills upon a sports phenom, I wanted a grammar lesson, what most would consider stodgy, to become fodder for, literally, sport. I wanted to make an arena out of a classroom, and a battle of wills and viewpoints to play out with the drive, pace, intensity and excitement of an NBA playoff game: fakeouts, turnovers, contested fouls, air balls, slam dunks, clutch shots; opponents unleashing a full court press; where winning is everything. And a cheerleader to punctuate this verbal sparring with athletic prowess and, well, cheer.
Q: How did you develop the characters of Joe, Hannah, and Miss Edwards? Are these characters and events inspired by your own life?
A: I love pro basketball. But not when the game is a runaway blowout. In order for my play to have dramatic
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tension, the opponents needed to be closely matched, equally flawed, the playing field level. An educated teacher may have home court advantage, but not all the answers. A jock can be smart and intuitive, his command of sports strategy a real edge. A cheerleader can be academic, ambitious, and a catalyst: the carrot Miss Edwards dangles before Joe, to keep him writing. And at the same time she is Every Cheerleader, and the symbol of the English teacher’s lost ability to stir a crowd.
Miss Edwards is based on the high school English teacher who inspired me to become a writer. I was further inspired to base a character on her after she became a realtor, and upon narrowly missing a rattlesnake while showing me an empty house, this same scholar of literature swore like a sailor. Joe Marks is based on my 6’7” son, not surprisingly a high school basketball player, who saw no value in learning the parts of speech.
However, he aced an exam after his mother diagrammed the compound sentence, “’F’ you, and the horse you rode in on.” I’m not citing cause and effect, but he is now an eloquent writer, director and filmmaker.
The character of Hannah was inspired by the bouncy head cheerleader at my high school we all assumed was vapid, then showed up still stunning at our ten-year reunion, having become a corporate attorney who’d married a physicist.
Q: What do you hope audiences take away from this play?
A: Cherish our teachers, those tireless,
demanding, caring, underpaid souls who could use the hero worship and salary accorded our elite athletes. Champion quality education, this country’s life’s blood. With effective communication at a premium today, there’s no better time for proficient language skills. And always remembr to prooof.
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PLAY IN PROGRESS
Director Dan Guntzelman (center) speaks with cast members Dale Hodges, Esther Cunningham, and R. Graham Rogers. Esther Cunningham and R. Graham Rogers.
Dales Hodges.
Dale Hodges and R. Graham Rogers.
20 | play in progress
PLAN FOR THE HOLIDAYS NOW LOCK IN YOUR HOLIDAY ENTERTAINMENT TODAY!
Ain't no party like a Wonderland tea party...
Don't miss this ribbit-ing musical! FAMILY-FRIENDLY MUSICAL
DEC 4 – JAN 4
GIVE A GIFT THAT IS SURE TO GARNER RAVE REVIEWS! Giving the gift of great theater has never been easier! The flexibility of Ensemble Theatre gift cards allows recipients to choose the production, date, and time of their performance.
Purchase at the box office or call (513) 421-3555.
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Learn more at www.artacademy.edu/150
HOST YOUR NEXT EVENT @ ENSEMBLE THEATRE CINCINNATI
CORPORATE MEETINGS • SPECIAL EVENTS • CASUAL GATHERINGS PRE- & POST-SHOW RECEPTIONS • LECTURES & DISCUSSION GROUPS
A variety of spaces available to accommodate your group!
FOR MORE INFORMATION: (513) 421-3555 x2111 or events@ensemblecincinnati.org 22 |
CAST BIOS ESTHER CUNNINGHAM (Hannah Winters/Every Cheerleader) is thrilled to be back at Ensemble Theatre, where she was last seen as Emmy in A Doll’s House, Part 2, Baby Bob/Helen in Bob: A Life in Five Acts, and as the Mad Hatter understudy for Alice in Wonderland. Off stage she works with the ETC Education Department as a teaching artist for the Hunter Heartbeat Program. She is a graduate of Wheaton College, where some of her favorite credits include Julius Caesar, The Sparrow, and Bertolt Brecht’s The Caucasian Chalk Circle. Ms. Cunningham sends loads of gratitude to her family, Susan, Christopher, and friends near and far who continue to inspire and encourage her, as well as Lynn for making ETC a home.
DALE HODGES (Miss Edwards) has been a proud member of Actors’ Equity since 1974 and is delighted to return for her 27th production at Ensemble Theatre, where her favorite credits include Ripcord, Outside Mullingar, Other Desert Cities, Mrs. Mannerly, and Grey Gardens. Select regional credits include Wit, King Lear, To Kill a Mockingbird, 23 years of A Christmas Carol with Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, and Noises Off with Cincinnati Shakespeare Company. Ms. Hodges has worked on Broadway in Equus and Benefactors, off-Broadway in Top Girls and A Woman in Mind, and in regional theatres around the country, including 16 summers with Peterborough Players in New Hampshire. She would like to thank David and her off-stage family for always keeping her grounded, Lynn and her remarkable team for always making her welcome, and Lissa and Dan for inviting her into their classroom!
R. GRAHAM ROGERS (Joe Marks) is delighted to be making his Ensemble Theatre debut with this production! He is an actor and playwright who recently earned his BFA in Acting from University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music. His recent credits include Sam in The Flick, The Esquire; H2O: A Play About Water, 2018 Edinburgh Fringe; The Mayor in The Government Inspector, Ensemble in Middletown; and various men in the world premiere of The Earth is Flat by Todd Almond, CCM. His original play Black & White was a part of Fringe Development at the 2019 Cincinnati Fringe Festival. He would like to thank his mom for all of her support!
Cast bios | 23
“
HILARIOUS, SPLASHY
PHOTOS BY MARY ELLEN MATTHEWS
” AND UNMISTAKABLY BY TI N A FE Y!
FROM THE DIRECTOR OF ALADDIN AND THE CO-DIRECTOR OF
THE BOOK OF MORMON
5 MAR - 1721 - 26 PHOTOS BY MARY ELLEN MATTHEWS
FEB 21 -NOVEMBER MAR 5
ARONOFF CENTER
PRESENTED BY
24 |
BroadwayInCincinnati.com CincinnatiArts.org • 513.621.ARTS
Every life is an amazing story...Tell it at Arlington. 2145 Compton Road Cincinnati, Ohio 45231 (513)521-7003 amgardens.org
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Sara Mackie, Denise Devlin, Brooke Steele, & Mia Gentile in Winter Wonderettes. Photo by Sandy Underwood.
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
Emily Hodges & Charles Spencer
Danielle Revelson
Lucy Allen
Linda Holthaus* & Richard Zinicola
Jerri Roberts & Jim Thomas
Jane Anderson & Barbara Myers
Betty Huck*
Lynn Ryan
Marcia Banker & Jeffrey Schloemer
Dan & Karen Hurley
Susan & Clint Schertzer*
David & Gale Beckett
Diane & Carl Iseman
Norma Skoog
Louis & Judy Belli
Robert Keith & Kathleen Thornton-Keith
Martha Spiess
Holly Brians Ragusa & Damon Ragusa
Jackie Mack & Ted Silberstein
Richard Staudigel
Otto Budig
David Martin
Paula Steiner
Barbara Carr* & Bren Blaine
Audrey Meyers
Julie Stothfang
James Cissell & Carolyn Ford
Allen Middleton
Glenda Suttman
Brian & Elizabeth Coley
David & Diane Moccia*
Steve Thomas & Susan Lora
Pamela & Charles Colman
Norah & Joe Mock
Alan Ullman
Julie York Coppens
Mike Murphy
Margaret & Michael Valentine
Kelly Dehan
Patricia Myers & Alan Flaherty
Terry & Pann Webb
Kathy DeLaura
Betty Prince
Annette Wick & Mark Manley
Mary* & Scott Donaldson
Carol Purnell
Ronna* & James Willis
Melanie Garner* & Michael Berry
Lester Ratcliff
Patricia* & Joseph Witson
Linda & Gary Greenberg
Alva & Leon Reid
Dennis & Patti Worthen
Karlee Hilliard
Carol* & Steven Reubel
*Steering committe member
26 | 
Visit www.ensemblecincinnati.org to learn more about becoming a member of The Producers.
PLAYWRIGHT & DIRECTOR LISSA LEVIN (Playwright) is an award-winning librettist/lyricist, garnering the prestigious Kleban Award for her libretto for Twist of Fate, the musical comedy also receiving two L.A. Drama Critics Circle Awards, L.A. Weekly’s Musical of the Year, and a Los Angeles Ovation Award nomination for Best Musical. Levin’s other stage works include Hazel, A Musical Maid in America (premiere, Drury Lane Theatre, Chicago), Jewsical, A Low Bar Mitzvah, Hot Blooded, the holiday classic Strutcracker, The Cost of Benevolence, and What Would Jesus Do? Her essay, Pisser, a rant about insufficient bathroom stalls in women’s restrooms in theaters, was published by Random House in a collection of noted female humorists. The anthology was later transformed into a comedy revue co-produced and written by Levin, a breast cancer activist, benefitting the Dr. Susan Love Research Foundation. Also a twentyfive year veteran of television as a writer/producer, her credits include the Emmy Award-winning Mad About You, Cheers, WKRP in Cincinnati, Family Ties, Brothers, Mr. Belvedere, Complete Savages (with Keith Carradine), Thunder Alley (with Ed Asner), Gloria (with Sally Struthers), amongst many others. Then, as now, her collaborations with tv writer/producer and Sex and Education director, Dan Guntzelman, in both work and marriage, have been her most rewarding. Her thanks to D. Lynn Meyers and Ensemble Theatre for being this wonderful production’s friendly auxiliary. Levin is a member of the Dramatists Guild, Writers Guild of America, ASCAP, and the Society of Composers and Lyricists.
DAN GUNTZELMAN (Director) has written, directed, produced, or executive produced (or some combination) more than 300 episodes of network television. These series include WKRP in Cincinnati, Gloria, Off the Rack, Growing Pains, Just the Ten of Us, Thunder Alley, and Live Shot. In addition, he has co-authored a movie about nerds that shall remain nameless, Burt Reynolds's Cannonball Run II where he thankfully lost the credit arbitration, and has written and directed a labor of love released by Disney that explores kids and little league baseball entitled The Perfect Game. In addition, Mr. Guntzelman produced and directed Opening Night, a feature length documentary about one of Los Angeles’s oldest community theatres and the people you find there. Along the way, he has worked with Burgess Meredith, Ed Asner, Sally Struthers, Eileen Brennon, Dennis Haysbert, Patrick Duffy, Loni Anderson, and Kirk Cameron, to name a few, but he is most gratified to direct Sex and Education, written by his wife, Lissa Levin.
playwright & director | 27
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. STORMIE MAC (Costume Designer) is delighted to be in her third season as a Costume Designer with Ensemble Theatre and second season as the Resident Costume Supervisor. She is a Cincinnati-based costume designer and technician with a passion for the history of fashion and costume. She received a MFA in Costume Design from Florida State University and a BFA in Theatrical Design/Technology from The University of Mississippi. She is also active in IATSE 864 for wardrobe and wigs. Her recent favorite design credits include A Doll’s House, Part 2, The Wolves, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, and Bloomsday with ETC and The Diary of Anne Frank, Emma, and The Death of a Salesman with Cincinnati Shakespeare Company. She would like to thank her husband, Joey, for his endless support and love. MATTHEW TIBBS (Sound Designer) is the Assistant Professor of Sound Design at University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music. His recent credits include The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds, Flint Repertory Theatre; Cry It Out, Detroit Public Theatre; and As You Like It, Romeo and Juliet, and Shakespeare in Love, Utah Shakespeare Festival. His 100+ sound designs have been seen on stages in including New York City, Chicago, Washington D.C., Cincinnati, Salt Lake City, and Portland. Mr. Tibbs spent five years at Ball State University as part of the sound design faculty. He is a member of the designers’ union United Scenic Artists Local 829 and is the Co-Secretary for the Theatrical Sound Designers and Composers Association. He received a BA from George Fox University in 2004 and a MFA from CCM 2007. ZACH IVANS (Assistant Sound Designer) is a second-year graduate student in the Sound Design and Technology program at University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music, where recent sound designs include Our Country’s Good and Lady Windermere’s Fan. Prior to studying at CCM, Mr. Ivans earned a BA in Theatre from The Ohio State University, where he specialized in sound design and interactive media working on OSU’s productions of City of Angels, There is No Silence, and Scrap Heap, among others. 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. Ms. Lutz would like to thank D. Lynn Meyers, Ruth Sawyer, and the Cincinnati theatre community and patrons for their generous, supportive, and tenacious spirit.
28 | Production bios
PRODUCTION BIOS JACK MURPHY (Technical Director) is 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 went on to work for Norwegian Cruise Line. After another summer at the Janiec Opera Company, he came full circle and returned to Cincinnati. Mr. Murphy 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 (Stage Manager) is delighted to be returning to Ensemble Theatre, where her previous credits include 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 Company. 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.
production bios | 29
THE PREMIERE SOCIETY The Premiere Society recognizes individuals who have made gifts totaling $1,000 or more within the past year. The exceptional generosity of these donors supports ETC's mission of producing the very best in professional, contemporary theatre and vital community outreach. The following list includes donors whose gifts were received between September 18, 2018 and September 19, 2019.
WORLD CIRCLE ($10,000+) Anonymous (4) Mark & Wendy Armstrong ArtsWave Gale & Dave Beckett† The Otto M. Budig Family Foundation†‡ Tom & Annette Carothers† The City of Cincinnati† Burton & Susan Closson†‡ The Charles H. Dater Foundation, Inc. Harry & Linda Fath† William A. Friedlander Fund*†‡ GBBN Architects John & Gloria Goering Family Gift Fund The Carol Ann & Ralph V. Haile, Jr./US Bank Foundation† The Donald C. & Laura M. Harrison Family Foundation* William & Mary Jane James†‡ The H.B., E.W. & F.R. Luther Charitable Foundation, Fifth Third Bank & Narley L. Haley, Co-Trustees‡ Messer Construction Co.† The Mitchell S. & Jacqueline P. Meyers Foundation† Ohio Arts Council P&G Fund*‡ The Daniel & Susan Pfau Foundation PNC Charitable Trusts PNC Foundation Richard Postler & Manuel Hernandez Digi & Mike Schueler The Schueler Group The Shubert Foundation, Inc. Mary Stagaman & Ron Kull† State of Ohio through the Cultural Facilities Commission† Paul & Jill Staubitz The Sutphin Family Foundation‡ The Dudley S. Taft Charitable Foundation The Louise Taft Semple Foundation Ms Carol Talbot† Dale & Joyce Uetrecht Irwin & Barbara Weinberg Western & Southern Financial Fund‡
NATIONAL CIRCLE ($5,000-$9,999) William P. Anderson Foundation Nicholas Apanius† Corky & Rick Family Foundation Ehrsam Family Fund*‡
30 | the premiere society
Kay & Jack Geiger Jane & Chip Gerhardt†‡ Graeter's LPK† Macy's Mr. & Mrs. David E. Moccia‡ Caroline Richards Rotary Foundation of Cincinnati Moe & Jack Rouse Elizabeth Sawyer Selnick Fund* The Sittenfeld Family†‡ The Dennis B. & Patricia L. Worthen Fund‡
REGIONAL CIRCLE ($2,500-$4,999) Anonymous (2) Holli Alexander Marcia A. Banker & Jeffrey S. Schloemer‡ Amy Barhorst Karen & Christopher Bowman Denise & Martin Chambers Jonathan & Kristine Garrett Alana & Shelly Gerson‡ Suzanne Hasl‡ Marilyn P. & Joseph W. Hirschhorn Fund* Betty Huck‡ Lorrence T. & Barbara W. Kellar Fund*‡ Stephen King & Lynne Miller† David & Judith Morgan Fund* Marilyn & Jack Osborn†‡ Neal Patel & Dr. Avani Modi†‡ Jackie Reau, Game Day Communications‡ Steven & Carol Reubel Marvin & Betsy Schwartz Fund* Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP Thompson Hine LLP
CINCINNATI CIRCLE ($1,000-$2,499) Anonymous (4) 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 Mrs. Charlene Breidster Dale P. Brown‡
Ken & Joan Campbell Barbara Carr & Bren Blaine College Hill Coffee Co. & Casual Gourmet Meredythe G. & Clayton C. Daley, Jr. Family Fund* Mark Dauner§ Fencl Family Fund* Mary Fiorini Bob & Mary Fitzpatrick‡ GE Foundation Matching Gifts Program Rita & Dennis Geiger† Bob Gerding Gilman Family Fund* Judith B. Green & Thomas M. McDonough Linda Greenberg Fund * Helen & John Habbert‡ Irving Harris‡ Bob & Judy Heaton Marilyn F. Hill Karlee Hilliard Emily M. Hodges & Charles H. Spencer‡ Florette Hoffheimer Linda Holthaus & Richard Zinicola§ Erin Houlihan & John Bostick‡
Johnson Investment Counsel Tom & Sue Kirkpatrick David Logan & Dale Hodges Anita & Ed Marks† David Martin Allen R. Middleton & Gary A. Daniels‡§ Anu & Shekhar Mitra Norah & Joe Mock Netherland Rubber Co. Dr. Patricia O'Connor Marilyn Z. Ott The Reed Family Foundation Charles Scott Riley III Foundation Blake Robison & Connan Morrissey George & Caroll Roden Paula Steiner Summertime Kids Fund* Glenda Suttman† Bob & Sue Trusty 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
Please bring any errors or omissions to our attention by contacting Josh Neumeyer: (513) 421-3555 x2104 or jneumeyer@ensemblecincinnati.org.
the premiere society | 31
ANNUAL FUND ETC gratefully acknowledges the extraordinary individuals, families, and organizations whose support makes our programming possible and an integral part of our community. The following lists donors whose gifts were received between September 18, 2018 and September 19, 2019.
ACTORS ($500-$999)
Elizabeth Stites & Kevin Randall
Anonymous (5)
The Sweeny Family Charitable Fund,
Chuck Altenau
Laura Atkinson‡
Marcia Togneri
Mike & Juliette Bezold
Nancye & Thomas Van Brunt‡
Walter Blair†
Jennifer Verkamp
Mary & William Bonansinga Charitable Family Fund*
Maureen & Larry Vignola
Brenda & Steve Carter
Ronna & James Willis Charitable Fund
Philip Clayton
Wuerdeman Family Fund*
Contributing Board Member
Nora Zorich & Thomas Filardo Family Fund*
in honor of Jack & Kit Overbeck
David Crotty & Joan von Handorf Jennifer & M. Vito Damiano Susannah Davids & Steve Myer‡
STAGE MANAGERS ($250-$499)
Kathy DeLaura & Ron Steinhoff‡
Anonymous (4)
Kathryn J. DeLong
Christine Adams
Jan Denton
Amy Alig
Douglas & Sara Dicken
Gail Barker, M.D.
Carol S. Friel
Henrietta Barlag‡
Donn Goebel & Cathy McLeod§
David & Elaine Billmire
Debra Hartsell & Michael James
William & Eileen Bishop Family Fund
Daniel Hurley
Dabby Blatt
Keith & Patti James
Neil Bortz
Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies Matching
Mark Bowen§
Gifts Program
Daniel Brown & Mark Haggard
Arleene Keller‡
Bryson Family Charitable Fund
Carmen & Rich Kovarsky
Susan Cohen & Robert Schmuelling
Kroger Community Rewards Program
Brian & Elizabeth Coley
Kuby Family Fund*
Andrew F. Cone
Ginny & Rick Kuertz
Margaret & Joseph Conway
LaMacchia Family Foundation
Kelly M. Dehan
Jackie Mack & Ted Silberstein
Paul & Bev Diamond§
Mark D. Manley & Annette J. Wick
Amy Diamond & Eddie Wolf
Patricia McKay
Mary & Scott Donaldson
Jill & Bruce Mitchell
Emilie & David Dressler Fund *
John & Deborah Moffatt
Igor & Jane Dumbadze
Patti Myers & Alan Flaherty
Dennis & Catherine Dunwoodie§
James J. Nordlund
Charles & Harriet Edwards
Randall Olson
Steven Franks
Presidential Plaza Associates, LTD
The Gumbleton Family
Hera G. Reines
Patricia Hemmer
Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Revelson
Jim & Robin Huizenga
Becky & Ted Richards
Diane & Carl Iseman
Stephen & Helen Rindsberg
Charles D. King
Jayna & Dan Schimberg
Steve & Laurie Kiracofe
Abby & David Schwartz
Warren Leight
Mike & Laconia Smith
John & Pat Leikhim
John & Martha Spiess
Limestone Fund*†
Dee Stegman Please bring any errors or omissions to our attention by contacting Josh Neumeyer: jneumeyer@ensemblecincinnati.org or (513) 421-3555 x2104.
32 | annual fund
THANK YOU TO ALL OUR DONORS!
Susan Cohen & Robert Schmuelling
To join our family of contributors with a donation of any size, please contact Josh Neumeyer: (513) 421-3555 x2104
Kelly M. Dehan
Brian & Elizabeth Coley Andrew F. Cone Margaret & Joseph Conway Paul & Bev Diamond§ Amy Diamond & Eddie Wolf Mary & Scott Donaldson Emilie & David Dressler Fund * Igor & Jane Dumbadze Dennis & Catherine Dunwoodie§ Charles & Harriet Edwards Steven Franks
J.B. Lutz Family§
The Gumbleton Family
Jane MacKnight & Dennis Johnson
Patricia Hemmer
Kenneth T. & Molly M. Mahler
Jim & Robin Huizenga
mj Dynamics
Diane & Carl Iseman
Scott & Kim Moening
Charles D. King
Janyt Pockros
Steve & Laurie Kiracofe
Sara H. Pritchard
Warren Leight
Lester Ratcliff
John & Pat Leikhim
George & Joan Rebeck
Limestone Fund*†
Al Roane§
J.B. Lutz Family§
Jerri Roberts & Jim Thomas
Jane MacKnight & Dennis Johnson
Rich & Jess Roedersheimer
Kenneth T. & Molly M. Mahler
Marianne R. Rowe Fund*
mj Dynamics
J.R. Rulon§
Scott & Kim Moening
Richard Russell
Janyt Pockros
Martha & Lee Schimberg
Sara H. Pritchard
Jane Bogart Sellers§
Lester Ratcliff
Bryan Shick
George & Joan Rebeck
Eli E. Shupe, Jr. & Toby Ruben§
Al Roane§
Susan & David Smith
Jerri Roberts & Jim Thomas
Sara & Gunter Storjohann§
Rich & Jess Roedersheimer
Steve Thomas & Susan Lora
Marianne R. Rowe Fund*
Marty Tomb
J.R. Rulon§
Rosalie P. van Nuis†
Richard Russell
Priscilla S. Walford
Martha & Lee Schimberg
Buzz Ward†‡
Jane Bogart Sellers§
Ann & Victor Warner
Bryan Shick
Pann & Terry Webb§
Eli E. Shupe, Jr. & Toby Ruben§
Lois Widlansky
Susan & David Smith
Jay & Kate Wilford
Sara & Gunter Storjohann§
Kathryn Wright§
Steve Thomas & Susan Lora Marty Tomb Rosalie P. van Nuis†
CREW ($125-$249)
Priscilla S. Walford
Anonymous (4)
Buzz Ward†‡
Christine Adams
Ann & Victor Warner
Amy Alig
Pann & Terry Webb§
Gail Barker, M.D.
Lois Widlansky
Henrietta Barlag‡
Jay & Kate Wilford
David & Elaine Billmire
Kathryn Wright§
William & Eileen Bishop Family Fund Dabby Blatt Neil Bortz
* A Fund of The Greater Cincinnati Foundation
Daniel Brown & Mark Haggard
† Capital Campaign Donor ‡ Next Great Act Donor
Bryson Family Charitable Fund
§ Sustaining Donor
Mark Bowen§
annual fund | 33
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.
34 | 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).
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