Who All Over There? Playbill

WHO ALL OVER THERE?

by Torie Wiggins

The arts reveal what matters most.

PNC is proud to support Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati. The arts make us think, make us feel, and make us wonder. Thank you for helping to make our community a beautiful place.

D. Lynn Meyers, Producing Artistic Director

WHO ALL OVER THERE?

by TORIE WIGGINS

Directed by STORI AYERS†

April 11 – 30, 2023

Scenic & Lighting Designer BRIAN c . MEHRING

Wig Designer NIGEL C. MASK

Technical Director JACK MURPHY

Costume Designer AHARON

Sound Designer MATT CALLAHAN

Properties Curator/Design Assistant SHANNON RAE LUTZ

Production Stage Manager MARGOT WHITNEY*

Assistant 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.

WHO ALL OVER THERE? has been commissioned by Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati. All rights are retained by Torie Wiggins and Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati.

*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

SIMONE

2022–2023 SPONSORS

SEASON PRESENTING SPONSOR

SEASON FUNDER OPERATING SUPPORT

FAIRY GODMOTHER SPONSORS

EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT, & INCLUSION SPONSOR

SEASON SUPPORT

City of Cincinnati

Susan Friedlander

Hamilton County

Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile, Jr. Foundation

Mitchell S. and Jacqueline P. Meyers Foundation

The Shubert Foundation

IN-KIND SUPPORT

Cincinnati State Technical & Community College, Interpreter Training Program

Suder’s Art Store

EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT, & INCLUSION SUPPORT

Anonymous (2)

Arts Midwest

William P. Anderson Foundation

William J. Baude - Maurice E. Oshry Fund of the Greater Cincinnati Foundation

Donald C. and Laura M. Harrison Family Foundation

Betty Huck

Mr. & Mrs. David E. Moccia

The Daniel & Susan Pfau Foundation

Charles Scott Riley III Foundation

The John A. Schroth Family Charitable Trust, PNC Bank, Trustee

Nellie Leaman Taft Foundation

The Thaman Family Fund

Jennifer Verkamp

The Dennis B. & Patricia L. Worthen Fund

Photo by Ryan Kurtz

SEASON TICKET SPONSOR

CREAT ED TO GROW

The growth of Cincinnati and its arts is inseparable. Creating a thriving region starts with each of us giving what we can to the arts. Help set the stage for the future of the region we all love.

Give today at artswave.org.

STRONGER ARTS FOR A STRONGER REGION

STRONGER ARTS FOR STRONGER REGION

CAST & CREW

CAST

John Martin..................................................................................................................KENNETH EARLY*

Scot Lancaster BLAKE GEHRING

Danya Martin ........................................................................................ MALIYAH GRAMATA-JONES

Petunia "Aunt Toonie" Thompson KYNDRA DYANNE JEFFERIES

Deirdre Martin ....................................................................................................... KEISHA L. KEMPER

Dean Willis SPENCER LACKEY*

Sebastian "Truck" Martin ..................................................................................................... JAY WADE*

RUNNING CREW

2nd Assistant Stage Manager/Wardrobe Apprentice ......................................... EMILY MISALI

Assistant Director/Assistant House Manager/Crew Swing ANDREA BEASLEY

Sound Board Operator ............................................................................................ ELEXIS SELMON

Running Crew CHAR ADAMS

Wardrobe Crew................................. TIMOTHY BELTON, CAROLINE MARINO, EMMY RICE

Light Board Operators CHANELLE DAU PINO, CHRIS LIPSTREU

PRODUCTION TEAM

Assistant Stage Manager LEXI MULLER*

Associate Technical Director JACOB DOWELL

Intimacy Choreographer ERIN CARR

Scenic Charge Artist/Production Assistant RAE KUHN

Costume Supervisor BROOKE ARTHUR

Production Master Electrician CHRIS LIPSTREU

Sound Technician NICK KOEHLKE

*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.

UNDERSTUDIES

Sebastian "Truck" Martin ....................................................................................ANDREA BEASLEY

Dean Willis TIMOTHY BELTON

Danya Martin ................................................................................................................ ELEXIS SELMON

SETTING

Cincinnati, Ohio, in September of 2019.

This production will be performed in one act with NO intermission. Approximate running time is 1 hour, 45 minutes.

PLEASE TURN OFF ALL CELL PHONES. NO TEXTING.

When a community is strong, it’s more than a collection of streets and buildings. It’s a place that nurtures and helps its residents thrive. That’s what happens when people share the commitment to make things better together. That’s why we’re proud to support Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati.

Community is the commitment we make to each other

Bonbonerie Ens Spring 2022/23.indd 2

FROM THE PLAYWRIGHT

One of the things I love most about the original Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner is that it’s a love story. I love love stories. You know why? Because they are predictable. It’s the predictability that gives us comfort and makes us feel good watching the journey—love will always win. You’re rooting for the couple the whole time and, finally, at the end you get the satisfaction of seeing it all work out. They have proven that love conquers all.

But does it?

I believe that true love forces you to confront who you are, who you were, and who you hope to be. I hope you enjoy the story of these young lovers learning how to see each other while falling in love. What they see will determine if love can really win.

In this story, feel free to root for the love that sees.

—Torie Wiggins

FOR DREAMS OF ALL KINDS

Materials inspired by Who All Over There? courtesy of The Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library. Visit CinLib.org/over-there for more!

BOOKS

A Dash of Salt and Pepper

by Kosoko Jackson

The Girl I Am, Was, and Never Will Be: A Speculative Memoir of Transracial Adoption by

Shannon Gibney

Good Intentions: A Novel by

Kasim Ali

My Name is Jason. Mine Too: Our Story, Our Way by

Jason Reynolds

Love Marriage: A Novel by

Monica Ali

MOVIES

Guess Who's Coming to Dinner The Lovebirds

MUSIC

Curtain Call 2 by Eminem

etc essentials

WHO ALL OVER THERE? | APRIL 23, 2023 @ 1:00 PM

Relationships can be complicated, even on stage. As our society progresses, new roles are being established in the theatre community to address cultural nuances and physical and emotional safety on stage. Learn from local intimacy coaches and cultural consultants about their role in the theatre and why it is so vital.

MAYTAG VIRGIN | JUNE 11, 2023 @ 1:00 PM

With the rise of social media, dating apps, and online communication, we have begun to lose the power of the love letter. Learn from local writers and love experts about the art of the written “woo-rd” and how to compose love letters for the special people in your life.

Borrow these materials online or at your nearest library branch.

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

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 students from under-resourced schools 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

OFFICERS

Kathy DeLaura, Chair

Jeffrey Schloemer, President

Kathy Burklow, Vice President

Linda Holthaus, Vice President

Mike Schueler, Treasurer

Meggan Thompson, Secretary

DIRECTORS

Erica Bock

Holly Brians Ragusa

Otto M. Budig, Jr.

Tom Carothers

Charles H. Gerhardt, III

Beverly A. Grant

Stephen M. King

Anthony McNamara

D. Lynn Meyers, ex officio

Shekhar Mitra

Nilesh Patel

Darryl A. Peal

Richard L. Postler

Leah Quortrup

Maura Schilling

Alex Schutte

Mary Stagaman

Torie Wiggins

Ashlee Young

Erica Zaretsky

DIRECTORS EMERITI

Skip Hickenlooper

Edward G. Marks

FOUNDERS' CIRCLE

Ruth D. & John Sawyer

Ken & Mary "Murph" Mahler

Dr. Charles O. Carothers

Mitchell S. Meyers

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati is a member of

INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING?

Contact our team at Cincinnati Magazine for information:

advertise@CincinnatiMagazine.com

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.

Theatre Communications Group (TCG), the national organization for the American theatre.

OUR STAFF

LEADERSHIP

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

Producing Artistic Director & Chief Executive Officer

Michael R. Zimmer, CPA, CGMA, Chief Financial & Operations Officer

Josh Neumeyer, Managing Director

ARTISTIC

Brian c. Mehring, Resident Scenic & Lighting Designer

Shannon Rae Lutz, Properties Curator & Design Assistant

Rae Kuhn, Scenic Charge Artist & Production Assistant

Professional Apprentice Program

Shannon Rae Lutz, Director of Apprentice Programming

Torie Wiggins, Apprentice Program Associate

Professional Apprentices:

Andrea Beasley • Timothy Belton

Caroline Marino • Emily Misali

Emmy Rice • Elexis Selmon

DEVELOPMENT

Jennifer Joplin, Director of Development

EDUCATION

Victoria Aslanides, Director of Education

Emily Bush, Education Associate

Daniela Nenova, Education Associate

Teaching Artists:

Becca Howell • Julie Locker

LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

Jocelyn Meyer, Director of Marketing & Communications

Amy J. Barbian, Associate Director of Marketing & Communications

Rachel Kazee, Digital Marketing Coordinator

Becca Schall, Creative Media Producer

OPERATIONS

Jared D. Doren, Programming & Events Manager

Nick Ligon, Head of Security

Anna Sheridan, Administrative Coordinator

PATRON SERVICES

Amy Weinstock, Box Office Manager

Box Office Associates/House Managers:

Melody Lindner • Sharisse Santos • Becca Schall

Bartenders:

Carter Bratton • Burgess Byrd • Jacob Dowell

Lori Hiltenbeitel • Wyn Jones • John Simpson

PRODUCTION

Jack Murphy, Technical Director

Jacob Dowell, Associate Technical Director

Brooke Arthur, Costume Supervisor

STAGE MANAGEMENT

Margot Whitney, Production Stage Manager

Lexi Muller, Assistant Stage Manager

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati acknowledges that we gather on the unceded and stolen territories of the Hopewell, Adena, Myaamia (Miami), Shawandasse Tula (Shawanwaki/Shawnee), and Wazhazhe Ma'zha' (Osage) peoples. We honor with gratitude the land itself and the people who have stewarded it since time immemorial.

PLAY IN PROGRESS

Spencer Lackey & Maliyah Gramata-Jones

Kenneth Early

Maliyah Gramata-Jones & Spencer Lackey

Keisha L. Kemper

PLAY IN PROGRESS

Jay Wade, Kenneth Early, Maliyah Gramata-Jones, & Keisha L. Kemper.

Spencer Lackey, Maliyah Gramata-Jones, & Stori Ayers.

Kyndra Dyanne Jefferies

Blake Gehring & Spencer Lackey

A New Dish on Guess Who's Coming to Dinner k k

The landmark 1967 Supreme Court ruling of Loving v. Virginia struck down bans against interracial marriage, only days after filming completed on one of the most influential films on that very subject, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner (which also serves as inspiration for Who All Over There?). It’s easy to forget how recent this was—only 55 years ago. For context, the guaranteed right for interracial couples to marry is younger than the invention of the computer mouse, actress Halle Berry, and even Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, which had its first production in 1960. But in 1967, even progressive whites who claimed to support interracial marriages were likely to feel differently once the reality of those relationships knocked on their door. Enter Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner

The Plot Thickens (Spoiler alert for 1967 film!)

In San Francisco, well-to-do liberal Matt Drayton (Spencer Tracy) runs a newspaper while his wife Christina (Katharine Hepburn) owns an art gallery. Their 23-year-old daughter Joey (Katharine Houghton) returns from vacation with her new fiancé, Dr. John Prentice (Sidney Poitier), a 37-year-old Black widower and highly successful doctor who works with the UN and the World Health Organization. Following a tenday whirlwind romance, the two became engaged. John must leave for Switzerland that night for his work with the WHO, and Joey plans to join him shortly, thus wanting to get married as soon as possible. John, knowing how shocked and uncomfortable the Draytons are at the surprise engagement, confides in them that he'll only marry Joey with their permission, but having to leave that night puts a tight timeline on it.

Suddenly, the Draytons’ liberal beliefs are put to the test: are the couple, who raised their daughter not to judge others based on their skin color, actually okay with interracial relationships once their own daughter is part of one? Although shocked at first, Christina comes around, but Matt’s fear of the difficulties the couple will face leaves him reluctant. To add to quandary, Joey has spontaneously invited John’s parents. Like Joey, John hasn’t told his parents about the elephant in the room, and John Sr. and Mary Prentice (Roy Glenn and Beah Richards) are just as shocked to discover that Joey is white.

Christina and Mary, though initially surprised, agree in supporting their children, but John Sr., just as disapproving of the union as Matt, argues with his son. Mary gives a passionate speech about how they all must’ve forgotten how powerful falling in love is. Both fathers are moved by her wisdom, and Matt acknowledges that John and Joey’s decision to marry was never truly in his hands. Before heading to the dining room to finally eat, Matt concludes that while the couple will certainly encounter challenges and discrimination, love will help them overcome.

Mixed Palates

Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner holds a place in cinematic history largely for two reasons. First, it was movie legend Spencer Tracy’s last film as he died ten days after

filming. Second, it was one of the first movies to depict an interracial relationship positively rather than something doomed to tragedy.

The film was a box-office and critical hit, becoming the best-selling Columbia film at the time. It was also nominated for ten Academy Awards, winning two; landed a spot in the top 100 greatest movies ever; and further cemented Sidney Poitier (who had already become the first Black man to win a competitive Oscar) as an acting legend, a box-office hit, and a Black icon. It was hailed for its witty dialogue and use of comedy mixed with drama (what we’d call a modern dramedy), leaving audiences both laughing and crying and ultimately leading to important discussions about race.

Even with these achievements, audiences have pointed out some of its flaws. Most notably, Poitier’s character, Dr. John Prentice, is critiqued as being too perfect. How could any parent be against their daughter marrying a charming, well-educated, and internationally renowned doctor? However, director Stanley Kramer and writer William Rose countered that this was intentional. Having John be so upstanding meant that the only possible objections the Draytons could have against his marriage to Joey were his skin color or the short timeline of their romance.

Although groundbreaking, the movie was primarily for white audiences. It was challenging white progressives to come face-to-face with their proposed beliefs and ask themselves if they could walk the walk and not just talk the talk. Many critics think it didn’t go far enough to confront racial prejudice, and even actress Katharine Houghton (who played Joey) admitted that the film likely didn’t do anything for civil rights. Still, the film became a symbol for relationships that weren’t generally approved of, including interracial and queer marriages.

New Recipes

Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner’s legacy continues not just through societal impact but also through new art. A stage play was first produced in 2012 and is now regularly performed around the country. In 2005, the loose adaption called Guess Who, starring Bernie Mac and Ashton Kutcher, reversed the roles (much like our play is doing) by having a Black woman (Zoe Saldana) bring her white boyfriend home. However, that movie focused much more on the comedy of the situation rather than dramatic insight into interracial couples.

Jordan Peele’s hit 2017 horror comedy Get Out also takes inspiration from Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, but infuses a fresh take. That film presents a similar but modern scenario of a Black man (Daniel Kaluuya) meeting his white girlfriend’s (Allison Williams) liberal parents for the first time. While Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner challenges white progressives to address and recognize their internal bias, ending on a hopeful note, Get Out explores Black horror as it relates modern racism and the systemic exploitation of Black people in an infinitely more sinister plot than its predecessor.

Torie Wiggins didn’t plan for Who All Over There? to be an update to the 1967 classic, but after starting to write it, she understood how it remixed the story, exploring modern interracial relationships, Black experiences within those relationships, and whether love is enough. You’ll soon see how her story has its own differences to the celebrated classic.

KENNETH EARLY (John Martin) is honored to return to the Ensemble Theatre stage to be part of this production. He was last seen at ETC as Aldrin in The Dancing Princesses, and some of his other credits include Pipeline, Red Velvet, The Whipping Man, Grey Gardens, Alice in Wonderland, Snow White, and Around the World in 80 Days. He has also been seen in productions at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, The Human Race Theatre Company, and Actors Theatre of Louisville.

BLAKE GEHRING (Scot Lancaster) (he/him) is grateful to be working with Ensemble Theatre for his first time. He received his BFA from Northern Kentucky University, where he studied radio/TV/film and theatre. He most recently attended the Theatre Training Institute under the direction of Ken Jones. Following graduation, Blake spent several years in Los Angeles pursuing acting and stand-up comedy. A few of his favorite theatre credits include Brighton Beach Memoirs, Young Frankenstein, The Shape of Things, The Full Monty, and Dearly Departed. He would like to thank his amazing parents, family, and friends who have rooted him on for nearly twenty years; Lynn Meyers and Becca Schall for the generous film opportunities over the past few years; and everyone else at ETC for this incredible opportunity to work on this stage.

MALIYAH GRAMATA-JONES (Danya Martin) (she/her) is so excited to be back at Ensemble Theatre, where she was last seen as the quiet but fierce #00 in The Wolves. Some of her other Cincinnati credits include Puffs and Red Bike at Know Theatre of Cincinnati, Titus Andronicus at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, and many beautifully “weird” projects through the Cincinnati Fringe Festival. Maliyah currently lives in Brooklyn, NY, teaches yoga, and is a dog mom to an adorable Doberman pup.

KYNDRA DYANNE JEFFERIES (Petunia "Aunt Toonie" Thompson) (she/her) is excited to be making her debut with Ensemble Theatre, and she couldn’t be more thrilled to join them for the world premiere of Who All Over There? by the accomplished Torie Wiggins. She is a native of Cincinnati and an alum of the School for Creative and Performing Arts. Kyndra has performed in various productions in the area including Disney's Descendants, The Wiz Jr., Annie Jr., Superman, and Mary Poppins Jr., The Children's Theatre of Cincinnati; Bourbon at the Border, Falcon Theatre; Memphis, Loveland Stage Company; and Disney's Newsies, Warsaw Federal Incline Theater. Her film credits include Dark Waters and The Old Man and the Gun. She sends a heartfelt thank you to all family and friends who have supported her while pursuing her passion.

CAST

KEISHA L. KEMPER (Deirdre Martin) (she/her) is excited for her debut performance with Ensemble Theatre! She is a native of Cincinnati and graduated from the University of Cincinnati–College Conservatory of Music with her BFA in dramatic performance. Her regional credits include Weezy in Alabaster and Harry in Harry and the Thief, Know Theatre of Cincinnati; Chorus/Nurse in Prokofiev: Suite from Romeo and Juliet, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra; (Story) Teller in The Bradbury Tattoos: An Experimental Rock Opera, Concert:Nova; Maria, Captain, and First Officer in Twelfth Night, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s Shakespeare in the Park; and Amanda Wingfield in The Glass Menagerie, New Edgecliff Theatre. Keisha would like to thank her family and friends for their continued support.

SPENCER LACKEY (Dean Willis) (he/him) returns to Ensemble Theatre, where he was last seen in the virtual production of Side Man. He is an actor and composer based in Brooklyn, NY. His regional theatre credits include Barefoot in the Park, Queens Theatre; Shakespeare in Love, Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey; and The Other Rhine, Know Theatre of Cincinnati. His film and TV credits include Notzilla, Healing River, and Dead of Winter on Discovery ID. Spencer has a BFA in acting from the University of Cincinnati College–Conservatory of Music.

JAY WADE (Sebastian “Truck” Martin) (he/him) is proud to be back for his third full production at Ensemble Theatre, where he played the role of Omari in Pipeline by Dominique Morrisseau and, most recently, Chris in Sweat by Lynn Nottage. Jay would like to express his admiration for the entire ETC staff. He appreciates their dedication to bringing great and important works of art to the community, and for always welcoming him with homely and loving arms. Thank you. As always, Jay dedicates his performance to his family for their undying love and support.

CREATIVE TEAM

TORIE WIGGINS (Playwright) (she/her) has been a storyteller all her life. She has co-adapted and performed a one woman show, Your Negro Tour Guide, at various venues across the country, with a grand finale here at Ensemble Theatre as part of a double bill with I Shall Not be Moved by Isaiah Reaves. She has performed with many local theaters, including Know Theatre of Cincinnati, Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati, The Human Race Theatre Company, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, and Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. She has also worked with WAM Theatre in The Berkshires and The Resident Acting Company in New York City. Her directing credits include We Are Proud to Present… and Good Kids at Miami University Department of Theatre, Dreamgirls and Proof at The Carnegie Theater, I Shall Not Be Moved at Ensemble Theatre, and Blues for an Alabama Sky at Falcon Theatre. After being commissioned for smaller projects, her first play, See Me, was selected to be a part of ETC’s justice-themed 10 Minute Connections. She is excited to be making her full-length playwriting debut as a world premiere at ETC! She thanks her loving husband Aaron for his limitless support in all her endeavors.

STORI AYERS (Director) (she/her) is a storyteller. She's a New Yorkbased actor, director, and co-founder of [RARE] Lotus Productions. She is originally from Washington, D.C., and has a passion for stories that challenge, ignite, and inspire. Stori is excited to return to Ensemble Theatre after having previously directed Skeleton Crew in 2019. She recently directed the world premiere of Confederates by Dominique Morisseau at Signature Theatre in NYC, for which she won an Antonyo Award for Best Direction (off-Broadway) and received a nomination for Outstanding Direction from the Drama League. Her other directing credits include Paradise Blue, Geffen Playhouse; Blood at the Root, Chautauqua Theatre Company; and Night Vision and Third Grade; Playing on Air. Stori was honored to serve as the Associate Director of Skeleton Crew on Broadway. With her love for young artists, Stori has also directed at the University of Michigan, Penn State University, and Mary Baldwin University. She assistant directed the world premiere of August Wilson's one-man show How I Learned What I Learned at the Signature Theatre in New York City starring Ruben Santiago-Hudson. She was the 2018 and 2019 Directing Fellow at Chautauqua Theater Company where she assistant directed An Octoroon (Dir. Giovanna Sardelli), Into the Breeches (Dir. Laura Kepley), One Man Two Guvnors (Dir. Andrew Borba), and Amish Project (Dir. Sarah Wansley). Stori is a proud member of SDC and AEA; holds a BA from Mary Baldwin University and an MFA in Acting from Penn State University; and is the former executive assistant to writers Dominique Morisseau and Katori Hall. Currently, Stori works as a writer’s assistant to Dominique Morisseau, serving in the development of new musicals, plays, pilots, and films.

CREATIVE TEAM

D. LYNN MEYERS (Producing Artistic Director) (she/her) has been with Ensemble Theatre for over twenty-five years, having directed more than a hundred world and regional premieres, including Fun Home, The Wolves, Ripcord, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, The Legend of Georgia McBride, Hands on a Hardbody, I Am My Own Wife, Next to Normal, Tiny Beautiful Things, and the world premiere of 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 and the Gun, and The Public, in addition to serving as the Location Casting Director for The Shawshank Redemption. Lynn recently directed the world premiere of Fierce for the Cincinnati Opera. 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 received the 2018 Rosa F. and Samuel B. Sachs Fund Prize for her regional arts impact and leadership.

PRODUCTION TEAM

BRIAN c. MEHRING (Scenic & Lighting Designer) (he/him) has designed more than one hundred 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. Brian’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.

AHARON SIMONE (Costume Designer) is elated and humbled to be working with Ensemble Theatre for the first time. She is happy to have collaborated and helped build this story with this incredible company. Aharon is currently costuming, designing, and styling in NYC. She is also a current Wardrobe Dresser for Moulin Rouge! The Musical on Broadway. Aharon would not be where she is today without the support of her family, The Fab Five+ more—WE ARE ALL WE GOT. She would also like to save the best for last by extending the sweetest love to her wife, Harper Sierra Paige MilesThomas—you are everything I saw in my dreams multiplied by infinity. I love you baby.

MATT CALLAHAN (Sound Designer) (he/him) was the Resident Sound Designer for Actors Theatre of Louisville for seven seasons. Some of his recent designs for Ensemble Theatre include Queen, Cinderella, and Pipeline. He 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

NIGEL C. MASK (Wig Designer) is a hair stylist and entrepreneur that has offered awardwinning services for over 15 years. A native of Mansfield, Ohio, Nigel is the owner of Nigel’s Gifted Hands, LLC, based here in Cincinnati. He earned a BA in Psychology from the University of Cincinnati and his MS in Executive Leadership and Organizational Change from Northern Kentucky University. Nigel is a public speaker and consultant who seeks to spread his knowledge of hair education and his philosophy on the relationship between hair care and personal wellness to the world. He has partnered with community based organizations and institutions of higher learning to bring enlightenment on various topics related to the beauty industry. His professional work has been featured in Southern Bride Magazine and Cincinnati Magazine and can be seen reoccurring on Netflix and ABC Network.

PRODUCTION TEAM

SHANNON RAE LUTZ (Properties Curator/Design Assistant) (she/her) earned her Master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music in 1996 and became Properties Curator 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 Professional 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.

JACK MURPHY (Technical Director) (he/him) is excited to be part of another 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 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 as the Assistant Technical Director, he came full circle and returned home to Cincinnati. In 2013, Jack joined the team at ETC, where his favorite productions include An Iliad, Grounded, and Fun Home. He is excited to do the cutting edge work for which ETC is known.

PRODUCTION TEAM

MARGOT WHITNEY (Production Stage Manager) (she/her) is thrilled to be back at Ensemble Theatre this season! Her previous credits include Sweat on Broadway and the first national tours of Mean Girls, Come From Away, Bright Star, The King & I, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella, and War Horse. She has worked with The Public Theater, Signature Theatre Company, New York Stage and Film, Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, La Jolla Playhouse, Virginia Opera, Cincinnati Opera, Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati during the 2012-2013 Season, and Cincinnati Ballet. Margot received her BFA from the University of Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music. She would like to send her love and thanks to family and friends!

LEXI MULLER (Assistant Stage Manager) (she/her) is delighted to be back at Ensemble Theatre, where some of her credits include Fun Home, The Wolves, Skeleton Crew, and Fly By Night. Other regional credits include Sex with Strangers, The House, 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. Lexi 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) (any/all) is in their sixth 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 painting backdrops for ETC's Education Department, which led to their current position at ETC, where their favorite credits are Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Bloomsday, and When We Were Young and Unafraid

For more content about this production, including behindthe-scenes photos, videos, interviews and more, visit www.ensemblecincinnati.org

Set in the early 20th century, Ragtime explores themes of race, class and gender within a tumultuous period of social and political change in America. Strong, painful language is used within dramatic depictions of the ongoing struggle for civil rights and social justice. Due to this, the Cincinnati Pops’ performances of Ragtime are recommended for audiences age 13+.

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.

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 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

Before you fill your shopping cart, whether in person or online, designate ETC as your nonprofit beneficiary through the Kroger Community Rewards program. It's easy: you shop and Kroger donates a portion of your purchase amount directly to ETC!

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

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 March 23, 2022–March 23, 2023.

PLAYWRIGHTS

($20,000+)

ArtsWave

Gale & Dave Beckett

Daniel Brown & Mark Haggard

The Otto M. Budig Family Foundation

The City of Cincinnati

Burton & Susan Closson

The Charles H. Dater Foundation, Inc.

The Carol Ann & Ralph V. Haile, Jr. Foundation

Hamilton County, Ohio

The Donald C. & Laura M. Harrison Family Foundation*

LKC Foundation

The Mitchell S. & Jacqueline P. Meyers Foundation

Ohio Arts Council

State of Ohio through the Cultural Facilities Commission

PNC Foundation

The John A. Schroth Family Charitable Trust, PNC Bank, Trustee

Mike & Digi Schueler

The Schueler Group

The Shubert Foundation, Inc.

Louise Taft Semple Foundation

US Small Business Administration

PRODUCERS

($10,000-$19,999)

Arts Midwest

Denise & Martin Chambers

John & Gloria Goering Family Gift Fund

Betty Huck

Diane & Dave Moccia

Palmer/Graber Family Fund

Robert & Adele Schiff Family Foundation

Dudley S. Taft Foundation

Dale Uetrecht

DIRECTORS

($5,000-$9,999)

Anonymous

William J. Baude - Maurice E. Oshry Fund*

Marcia Banker & Jeff Schloemer†

Tom & Annette Carothers

Dan Collopy

Corky & Rick Family Foundation

Crosset Family Fund*

William & Mary Jane James

Johnson Investment Counsel

Nellie Leaman Taft Foundation

The Sittenfeld Family

Mary Stagaman & Ron Kull

Thaman Family Fund*

DESIGNERS

($2,500-$4,999)

Anonymous (2)

William P. Anderson Foundation

Michael Cioffi & Rachael Rowe Family Foundation Fund*

Susan Cohen & Robert Schmuelling

Ehrsam Family Fund*

Jane & Chip Gerhardt

Greater Cincinnati Foundation

Marilyn P. & Joseph W. Hirschhorn Fund*

Anu & Shekhar Mitra

Neal Patel & Dr. Avani Modi

Damon & Holly Ragusa

Sprout Insight, LLC

Vinkolet Winery

STAGE MANAGERS

($1,000-$2,499)

Anonymous (3)

Gordon Allen & Linda Baas

Americana Arts Foundation

Nicholas Apanius

Bank of America Charitable Foundation

Bank Of America Employee Giving Campaign

Judith & Louis Belli

Malcolm A. & Glenda Bernstein*

Michael Berry & Melanie Garner

Bryson Family Charitable Fund

Jeff & Gay Bullock

Barbara Carr & Bren Blaine

Cissell Family Fund*

Philip Clayton

Kathy Collins & Joseph Giglia

Meredythe G. & Clayton C. Daley, Jr. Family Fund*

Rick & Allison Edwards

Fencl Family Fund*

Bob & Mary Fitzpatrick

Gilman Family Fund*

Dr. & Mrs. Richard Glaser

Karen Grass

Dr. Robert & Suzanne Hasl Fund

Linda Holthaus & Richard Zinicola

JBVS LLC

Robert Keith & Kathleen Thornton Keith

Chris Lewis & Alicia Bond-Lewis

Sophia McAllister

Messer Construction

Jill & Bruce Mitchell

Molly North

Marilyn & Jack Osborn

Joyce Rich

Mr. & Mrs. Gates T. Richards

Charles Scott Riley III Foundation

Blake Robison & Connan Morrissey

Jessica Ruebusch

Please bring any errors or omissions to our attention by contacting Josh Neumeyer: jneumeyer@ensemblecincinnati.org or (513) 421-3555 x2103.

* A Fund of The Greater Cincinnati Foundation † Sustaining Donor

STAGE MANAGERS CONT.

Jane Ruwet Hopson & Larry Pytlinski

Alex & Kim Schutte

Marvin & Betsy Schwartz Fund*

Robert & Eleanor Shott Philanthropic Fund

Norma Skoog

Richard & Kathleen Strenk

Glenda Suttman

Meggan Thompson

Bob & Sue Trusty

Jennifer Verkamp Charitable Fund

Sonia Wagener

Woodward Family Charitable Foundation

The Dennis B. & Patricia L. Worthen Fund

CAST ($500-$999)

Christine Adams

Laura Atkinson

Wilma & Herbert Beigel

Walter Blair

Richard M Block Family Foundation

David Brashear

Dawn & Doug Bruestle

Brian & Elizabeth Coley

Philip K. & Anne Lilly Cone Fund*

Craft Family Fund

David Crotty & Joan von Handorf

Mark Dauner†

Kelly M. Dehan

Kathy DeLaura & Ron Steinhoff†

Jan Denton

Sandi Gans†

Rita & Dennis Geiger

Bob Gerding

Daniel Hurley

Keith & Patti James

Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies

Matching Gifts Program

Amy Katz & Robert Cohen

Anita & Ed Marks

Joseph & Lori McDonough

Anthony & Emily McNamara

Carol Miller Meibers

John & Deborah Moffatt

Patti Myers & Alan Flaherty

Overbeck Charitable Fund

Whitney Owens & David Eslinger Family Fund

Alice Perlman

Presidential Plaza Associates, LTD

Hera G. Reines

Peggy Robinson

Alis Rule Robinson

Kenneth & Kathleen Skau

Susan & David Smith

Kate Spencer & Doug Morriss

Dr. Joseph & Mrs. Nancy Stratman

Maureen & Larry Vignola

Karen & Barry Webb

Mary Ann & Edwin T. Weiss, Jr.

Kathryn Wright

Wuerdeman Family Fund*

RUNNING CREW ($250-$499)

Anonymous (2)

Tricia & Michael G. Bath

Mary Ann Bender

David & Elaine Billmire

Erica Bock

Mark Bowen†

Cassandra Brissette

Peg & John Bruggeman

Ann & Lee Bulger

Denny & Mindy Burger†

Nancy Cisneros

Carol C. Cole

John & Cynthia Cozad

Paul & Bev Diamond†

Elaine Drakos

Dennis & Catherine Dunwoodie†

Keith Faber

Barbara Feldmann

Rose & Daniel Gahl

William Groneman & Maureen Flanagan

Charitable Fund

The Gumbleton Family

Judy & Alan Guttman

Len & Jakki Haussler

Bob & Judy Heaton

Richard & Lauren Hess

James & Robin Huizenga

Pinky & Sam Kocoshis

Carmen & Rich Kovarsky

Kroger Community Rewards Program

Warren Leight

Carol Leslie†

Limestone Fund*

John & Kathy Lorenz

Jackie Mack & Ted Silberstein

Richard & Barbara Males

David L. Martin

The McCready-Shore Family

Dr. Ralph R. Meyer

Steven & Jacqueline Miller Family Foundation

The Honorable Norbert & Linnea Nadel

Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce

Neda & Bruce Nutley

Paul & Mary Ann Odegard

Brett Offenberger & Douglas Duckett

Timothy & Joanne Oppelt

Over-the-Rhine Chamber of Commerce

Darryl Peal

Chris Philpotts & Pam Schall

Caroline Richards

Holly Riffe & Sue Roth†

Al Roane†

Marianne R. Rowe

J.R. Rulon†

Dick & Chris Russell

Maria Saldivar

Alfred & Stephanie Sassler

Mikki Schaffner

Maura Schilling

Martha & Lee Schimberg

Jane Bogart Sellers†

Arnie & Ina Shayne

Eli E. Shupe, Jr. & Toby Ruben†

Michael Siegrist

John & Martha Spiess

Fred & Anne Straus Charitable Fund

Linda Tache

Scott & Sally Tieke

Marty C. Tomb

Anita Trotta

Alan & Margie Ullman

Rosalie P. van Nuis

Priscilla S. Walford

Scott & Vicki Walker

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 x2103

Pann & Terry Webb†

Ronna & James Willis

Dr. David & Cynthia Zink

Nora Zorich & Thomas Filardo Family Fund*

APPRENTICES

($125-$249)

Anonymous (12)

Jim & Janice Amatulli

Henrietta Barlag

Barbara & Wayne Beimesch

Bill & Janet Berger

The Bloch Family Fund

Rosemary Bloom Gifting Fund*

Wini Bruening

Michele & Kevin Cain†

Angela Chong & Harold Schuck

Susan Cranley

Jean Crocker-Lakness

Barbara Cummins

Charles & Lois Deitschel

Rick & Tracy Diehl

Marianne Doll

Emilie & David Dressler Fund*

Igor & Jane Dumbadze

Arthur Fink

Carl Fiora

Bill & Carol Fisher

Brenda Ganulin

Alana & Shelly Gerson

Melinda Gilbert

Joanne Glaser

Donn Goebel & Cathy McLeod†

Dr. Irene Hamrick

Thomas Hauer

Rick & Kathleen Hibbard

Ann Hicks

Karlee Hilliard

Daniel Hoffheimer

Florette Hoffheimer

Lyle & Jennifer Horvath

Barbara A. Jennings

Shonita Joshi

Carl Kalota

Lorrence T. & Barbara W. Kellar Fund*

Judith Kenniston

Tim & Grace Kerr

Madelyn Levy

David Logan & Dale Hodges

Audrey Luna & Dan Nelson

Anne McAdams

Shawn & Marilyn Nolan

Margie Nordlund

Ms. Kathleen O'Connell & Dr. H. Kenneth Peterson

Timothy & Joanne Oppelt

Nancy L. Phelan

David & Deborah Pittinger

Jeanne Plunkett

Laura Proto & Tommy Johnston

Steven & Carol Reubel

Jerri Roberts & Jim Thomas

Ross Royce

Ronald & Ruth Schmiedeker

Barbara Seiver

Lois Shannon

Mark Silbersack & Ruth Schwallie

Mary Lee & Louie Sirkin

Tim Smith & Penny Poirier

Jacqueline & Richard Snyder

Laurie Steele

Robert P. Streicher

Thomas Thompson

U.S. Bank Employee Matching Program

Barbara & Tom Waldron

Lee M. Walsh

Larry Weber

Joseph Wessling

Michael Wheatley

Karen Wittenberg†

Fred Yaeger & Lisa Staggenborg

TRIBUTE GIFTS

In memory of Michael Berry

In memory of Mary Bonansinga

In memory of Ardyth Flottman

In memory of Sue Friedlander (3)

In memory of James A. Markley, Jr.

In memory of Barbara W. Robb

In honor of Linda Erpelding

In honor of Mary Stagaman & Ron Kull's 20th Anniversary

In honor of Amy Weinstock

Ensemble Theatre 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 Aviation

Cincinnati Bell

Western & Southern Financial Group

Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center

The Cincinnati Insurance Companies

City of Cincinnati

Enquirer Media

Great American Insurance Group

Ohio National Financial Services

U.S. Bank

The H.B., E.W., and F. R. Luther Charitable Foundation, Fifth Third Bank and Narley L. Haley, Co-Trustees

Macy's

Cincinnati Business Courier

The Kroger Co.

PNC

The E.W. Scripps Company and Scripps Howard Foundation

Duke Energy

HORAN

Cincinnati Reds

* A Fund of The Greater Cincinnati Foundation

† Sustaining Donor

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, Braille programs, assistive listening devices, and sensory sensitivity items such as noisecanceling headphones and fidgets.

RELAXED PERFORMANCES

Select performances offered for those with sensory sensitivities and 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 their 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.

PARKING

Patrons may park at the Gateway Garage (accessible via 12th Street) or at the surface lot, both 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 are available for select shows (please consult your appropriate membership(s) for details and exclusions).

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

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

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