Chancellor: Richard Telfer Provost: Beverly Kopper College of Arts & Communication Dean: Mark McPhail Associate Dean: Robert Mertens
Director: Ken Kohberger Development Director/Assistant Director: Ben Strand Technical Director: David Nees Audience Services Manager: Michael Morrissey Marketing Director: Leslie LaMuro Coordinator of Education & Outreach: Shannon Dozoryst Office Manager: Malinda Hunter Mission Statement Young Auditorium serves as a presenting organization for the performing arts and as an educational and cultural center enriching the lives of the campus and regional communities. Vision Statement Young Auditorium: Artstanding in Creativity, Artstanding in Collaboration, Artstanding in Education, Artstanding in its Field. Non-Profit Status Young Auditorium is a non-profit organization under Section 115 of the Internal Revenue Code. A Note To Our Patrons: • Latecomers will be seated at the first convenient interval at the discretion of the audience services staff. • Patrons are requested to turn off pagers, cellular telephones, and hourly signaling watches during the performances. • Photography or video/audio recording of the performance is strictly prohibited. • No smoking, food, or beverages are allowed in the theater. • Personal hearing enhancement devices are available at the gift shop. • No state tax revenue supported the printing of this program.
Ordering Tickets UW-Whitewater Ticket Services Voice & TTY: 262-472-2222 Fax: 262-472-1329
Group Ticket Sales Groups of 10-24 = 10% discount Groups of 25+ = 20% discount For more information call 262-472-5705.
Purchase tickets in person at two locations Greenhill Center of the Arts Box Office M-F 9:30 am – 5:00 pm (Short term, metered parking at this location)
Facility Rental Young Auditorium facilities are available for banquets, receptions, concerts, meetings and dances. For information call 262-472-4444. Facilities include the Auditorium, Kachel Center and the Fern Young Terrace.
University Center- Information Services Desk UC 159 on the main floor lobby of the University Center. M-F: 9:30 am – 8:30 pm Sat: 8:00 am – 8:30 pm Sun: Noon – 8:30 pm Young Auditorium Lobby at 5:00 pm prior to performances. Contact Us Young Auditorium 930 West Main Street Whitewater, WI 53190-1790 Phone: 262-472-4444 www.uww.edu/youngauditorium E-mail: youngaud@uww.edu
Accessibility Features Patrons with special seating needs please inform ticket services personnel at 262-472-2222 three weeks prior to the performance when ordering tickets for: wheelchair seating or for visual impaired seating. Patrons with special visual or hearing needs please inform Michael Morrissey, audience services manager, by e-mailing at morrissm@uww.edu or call at 262-472-1487 three weeks prior to the performance for large print or Braille programs, or signed interpretation for the hearing impaired. and tickets must be purchased at least one week prior to event. Hearing enhancement devices are available at the gift shop.
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2011 • 7: 30 PM
Book & Lyrics by Frederick Heide & Lee Becker Music by Paul Libman Directed by Jeffrey Herbst Scenic Designer - Jim Maronek Costume & Prop Design - Neen Rock* Musical Director - Kyle Nelson Musical Supervisor - Colin Welford Lighting Design - David Alley Production Stage Manager - Neen Rock* Assistant Stage Manager – Dan Klarer Sponsored by:
This program was supported in part by a grant from the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.
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C A S T O F C H A R AC T E R S Fritz Dingleheimer.................................................................................................... Bo Johnson* Duane Puddles & White Doe................................................................................... Lee Becker* Joe Jimmy Ray Bob Johnson III & Staghart of the Golden Horns.....................................................................Doug Mancheski* Musician Kyle Nelson - Piano *Member of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. Setting: Up Nort’, WI - Present Day This is a two-act play. There will be a twenty-minute intermission. PLEASE NOTE! All guns used in this play have been disabled and are incapable of firing. The use of recording instruments and cameras is strictly forbidden. MUSICAL NUMBERS Up Nort’........................................................................................................................Fritz & Duane Slapjack..................................................................................................................................... Duane I Can’t Kill Bambi’s Brudder................................................................................................ Duane Another Notch In My Gun ..........................................................................................Joe Jimmy Huntin’ Day ................................................................................................................Fritz & Duane What Do You Get Your Wife? .................................................................................................. Fritz If I Was A Tree.......................................................................................................................... Duane Staghart of the Golden Horns....................................................................................... Staghart Slapjack Duel ............................................................................................... Duane & Joe Jimmy Staghart Reprise ............................................................................................................... Staghart Needing The Doe............................................................................................................... Staghart Pas De Doe................................................................................................. Staghart & White Doe Guys And Does .....................................................................................................Fritz & Staghart Avalon ................................................................................................................................... Staghart Knitting Love Song .............................................................................................................. Duane Huntin’ Day Reprise........................................................................................................Joe Jimmy Staghart’s Soliloquy ......................................................................................................... Staghart Avalon Reprise ................................................................................................................... Staghart Sacred Critter Choir ......................................................................... Joe Jimmy, Fritz & Duane Up Nort’ Reprise........................................................................................................Fritz & Duane A F T M I S S I O N S TAT E M E N T The mission of American Folklore Theatre is to create, develop, and present professional musical and dramatic productions which will further the knowledge and appreciation of the culture and heritage of the United States. The Theatre is dedicated to maintaining standards of artistic excellence; celebrating and illuminating the human condition; reaching a large audience of all ages, including families; and fostering a humanistic work environment with adequate and appropriate emotional, financial and creative support for all those associated with us. Young Auditorium 3
SYNOPSIS Hunting isn’t exactly new. Long before Ole met Lena we gathered around our Paleolithic fires, celebrating the prowess of the hero who provided meat for the clan. Prehistoric French painters depicted the sacred quest for game on cave walls. And one of our largest constellations, Orion, eternally hunts the star-fields of the night sky. It’s surprising, then, that such a primal and significant theme as hunting hasn’t found its way into more musical comedy. Or maybe it isn’t. Thanks to urbanization and the industrial food industry, hunters are now only 5% of the population. Today, the closest most of us get is the hunt for pocket change while waiting for our drive-thru burger-basket. Yet, there are still those souls among us who hear the ancient call. And who dwell in the paradoxical balance of revering what one seeks to kill. The hunter is celebrated once again in Guys & Does. You’ll meet Fritz Dingleheimer, burned-out mill-worker and wise hunter ready for his annual respite “up nort’.” You’ll also experience the hunt through the eyes of Bambi-loving non-hunter, Duane Puddles. Adding another take on hunting is Joe Jimmy Ray Bob Johnson III, a swaggering Texan whose quest for rare game is not quite so noble. And providing a rarely heard point-of-view on the matter is Staghart of the Golden Horns, an ancient, talking white deer. Guys & Does explores the hunt for deer, as well as the other things we all hunt for: validation, job satisfaction, significance, love and the perfect Christmas gift for your spouse. Our sincere thanks to the Wisconsin deer hunters who shared their deep knowledge of the sport: Willard, Brian, Bruce, and Sally Zak of Door County, Reed Romens of Pittsville, and Bob and Mark Tuttle of Nekoosa. These individuals follow in the footsteps of countless generations by demonstrating that hunting can be ethical, respectful, and honorable. BIOGR APHIES Frederick “Doc” Heide – Playwright Doc is co-founder, first board president, artistic advisor, playwright, and performer with American Folklore Theatre. A Wisconsin native, he has co-authored 20 musicals including Guys & Does, the long-running hit comedy Belgians in Heaven, and the sciencefiction football musical Packer Fans from Outer Space (the latter two with Lee Becker and James Kaplan). His three CD’s include Christmas in Door County with Memphis string wizard Eric Lewis. Doc is associate professor at the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University in San Francisco, where he won both the Master Teacher and Teacher of the Year awards, and also teaches postgraduate courses at the Medical College of Wisconsin. Doc was recently named Associate Editor of PsycCRITIQUES: The APA Review of Books. He has 4 Young Auditorium
published in Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, Psychology Today, Psychophysiology, and elsewhere. He dedicates his work on tonight’s show to his dearest deer, Jody. Lee Becker – Playwright & Duane Puddles A Dairyland native, Lee began his professional career in the late 80’s with ComedySportz-Madison before moving to New York City to help found ComedySportz there, as well as perform some Shakespeare. He returned to Wisconsin and began working with American Folklore Theatre in 1994. Since then he has performed in over 30 AFT productions, including Belgians in Heaven and Packer Fans from Outer Space both of which he also cowrote with Doc Heide. Favorite roles there include DNR Doug, Mildred the Chicken, and Ernie the Moocher from Guys On Ice. When not in Door County,
B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) Lee has performed with Milwaukee Rep, Madison Rep, Skylight Opera Theatre, Door Shakespeare, ComedySportz and First Stage Children’s Theatre. Lee would like to thank his Uncle Reed, Uncle Bob and Cousin Mark for sharing their deer hunting know-how, and he dedicates tonight’s show to his beautiful bride, Sara. Paul Libman – Composer This is Paul’s first collaboration with AFT founder and playwright “Doc” Heide. Paul (member, Dramatists Guild and ASCAP) and writing partner Dave Hudson have written a new musical in each of the six years they have worked together. They are the only two-time winners of the Richard Rodgers Award and also have had three of their musicals honored with performances at the Stages Festival at Theatre Building Chicago. Their shows include Muskie Love (AFT 2004, 2005), A Cabin with a View (AFT 2007, 2008) and Main-Travelled Roads (AFT 2007). Paul dedicates this season to the loving memory of his father and biggest fan, Milt Libman. He thanks his wonderful family and especially, Marcia. Doug Mancheski – Joe Jimmy & Staghart of the Golden Horns Doug has been performing with American Folklore Theatre since 1997. He is perhaps best known for portraying the role of Marvin in Guys On Ice, the ice-fishing musical, for over 600 performances. Other favorite AFT shows include Lumberjacks In Love (Dirty Bob), The Bachelors, Loose Lips Sink Ships, Muskie Love and Guys & Does. He has performed in Wisconsin with Milwaukee Repertory Theatre, Madison Repertory Theatre, Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, Peppin Players, Door Shakespeare and Third Avenue Playhouse in plays including, Three Days of Rain, Tuna Christmas, Present Laughter, Heartbreak House, Love Letters, Our Town and The Good Doctor. Before moving back to Wisconsin, the Green Bay native acted in many productions in New York City, off-Broadway, including many improvisational comedy acts. He
has studied acting with many icons of the acting world including Paul Sills, Uta Hagen, David Mamet, and Mike Nichols. He graduated from New York University’s graduate professional actor training program. His one-act play, O-11, premiered last May at the 8th Annual Northwoods Playwrights Festival. He dedicates his performance to the beloved memory of his mother, ‘Dottie.’ He is sure she is sitting in the first few rows smiling with pride from ear to ear. Keep the faith. Bo Johnson - Fritz Dingleheimer In December of 1982, Bo graduated from U.W. Eau Claire. The very first professional job he got after graduating was as a story teller, singer, and guitarist in a couple of small shows that toured to schools in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Michigan. The company that produced the shows was based out of the U.W. Madison extension and was run by a man named Dave Peterson. The company’s name was Heritage Ensemble. A few years later, Heritage relocated to Door County and changed its name to American Folklore Theatre. Bo, meanwhile, continued to work as a professional actor in the Milwaukee theatre community. And now Bo is really very, very pleased to be able to come back to work for the company that gave him his professional start, not to mention what a joy it is to be in a show that was co-written by his roommate of 12 years and true brother, Lee Becker. Actually being on stage with Lee and Doug ain’t bad either. Jeffrey Herbst – Director & AFT Artistic Director Jeffrey Herbst has been Artistic Director for American Folklore Theatre since 1993. He has worked on fortyseven original productions with AFT since 1991 including Guys & Does, Guys on Ice, Lumberjacks in Love, Belgians in Heaven, Packer Fans from Outer Space and Bone Dance. Mr. Herbst was instrumental in developing AFT’s New Works Program and the Fred Alley New Musical Fund, nurturing writing teams in bringing an original work from Young Auditorium 5
B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) “the page to the stage.” Mr. Herbst has an MFA in Acting from the Asolo Conservatory and has performed on and off Broadway, as well as at regional theatres throughout the United States. Kyle Nelson - Musical Director & Musician Having relocated to Chicago in 2009, Kyle spent over 25 years in Minneapolis/St Paul working as a music director, pianist, conductor, and voice teacher. He has been on the artistic staff for over 40 musical productions including the world premieres of Church Basement Ladies and Church Basement Ladies 2-A Second Helping and national tours of A Christmas Carol and Babes In Toyland, all for Troupe America. He has conducted pit orchestras for over a dozen productions including West Side Story, A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum, and Oklahoma. At Oberlin College Conservatory of Music, Kyle studied oboe with James Caldwell and voice with Howard Hatton. Presently, he is working as a freelance musician in Chicago. Jim Maronek – Set Designer Jim Maronek has designed scenery for ten AFT productions, he thinks, as well as their new permanent stage. His Door County work also includes The Christmas Schooner. He has designed maybe thirty sets for the Peninsula Players since he began his career there in 1950. He is now on their Board of Directors and helped to replace their theatre, which was nearly as old and creaky as he. This season, he will be designing A Little Night Music for the Peninsula Players. Otherwise, with his wife Carole, he operates Russian cottage rentals and his fine art gallery at Silver Poplar Studios in Ellison Bay. His credits, including The Goodman Theatre, number over 250 designs that have been exhibited internationally. He is Professor Emeritus of The Theatre School of DePaul University.
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Dave Alley – Technical Director & Lighting Designer This is David’s 21st season overseeing AFT’s technical operations. He has been AFT’s resident lighting designer since 1990, Outside of AFT, David works as a live sound and recording engineer in addition to doing lighting and sound design work for other local theatres. Neen Rock – Production Stage Manager & Designer Neen Rock has designed and constructed costumes, sets and props for numerous AFT productions over the years. Since 1999, she has served as AFT’s Production Stage Manager for their summer and fall seasons. In AFT’s off-season, Neen resides in Madison, WI, where she works as a freelance stage manager and as a member of IATSE Local 251. Neen wishes to thank her parents and family for their constant love and support. Dan Klarer – Assistant Stage Manager Dan has done many different jobs over his 5 years at AFT including performer, stage crew, costumer, and popcorn maker. He also house managed for AFT’s fall ‘11 season. Dan attended UW Stevens Point with a BA in drama and spent his last semester in London working for The Rose Theater, Kingston. Upon returning Dan cofounded Plimoth Players, an all-male Shakespeare troupe in Plymouth, MA, where he is costume designer, fight director, co-director, and acted in several roles in each show. This past August Dan attended the International Stunt School in Seattle, WA and is an apprentice member of the United Stuntman’s Association. Colin Welford – Musical Supervisor Colin Welford hails from England. He studied at Oxford University, The Royal College of Music, University of Miami and Columbia College, Chicago - in Music History, orchestral conducting and film scoring. Colin’s diverse musical roles range from conducting at the English National Ballet, to Music Supervisor of the Broadway musical
B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) The Lion King worldwide. He was Music Director of Wicked in Chicago, and is currently conducting Billy Elliot. Dave Maier – AFT Managing Director This is Dave’s third year with AFT and his first as Managing Director. After graduating from the American Conservatory Theater Advanced Training Academy in San Francisco, Dave joined the A.C.T. acting company as an Equity actor, eventually assuming additional roles as conservatory trainer, literary coordinator, and stage director. He was also Managing Director of the New Plays Program for seven years, where he produced over thirty premiere productions by dozens of nationally renown playwrights, many of which he either designed or directed. He also served as Artistic Director for Encore Theatre Company in San Francisco for eight years, an experimental summer repertory theatre which produced over two-dozen critically acclaimed theater productions. Holly Feldman - Manager, Marketing & Audience Development After earning her degree in Arts Management and Theatre from UWStevens Point in 2001, Holly began her career working as the Marketing Director of American Folklore Theatre in Door County. Though she took a brief seven-year hiatus to raise her very own generation of theatre fans, she’s always found the time to keep one foot in the non-profit arts world. She couldn’t be more pleased to have found her way back to American Folklore Theater, the place that holds her happiest childhood memories. In addition to her behind-the-scene contributions, Holly can also been seen performing and singing on the stages of various Door County venues.
Pete Evans – Company Manager Pete has been in the Music and Theatre Biz since the ‘70s. He started out as a musician “on the road” for three years playing guitar, mandolin, and fiddle before joining the theatre world. He has served as Technical Director, Program Director, and Executive Director in the span of 40 years at theatres including: Emens Auditorium, Ball State University, Muncie, IN; Wisconsin Union Theatre, UW Madison; and Door Community Auditorium, Fish Creek, WI. He has also been a teacher at theatre workshops in the United States and Canada with the International Thespian Society. He is very excited to now be a part of the family at American Folklore Theatre.
The Nutcracker
The Dance Factory
Sat. Dec. 17 2 & 7 pm TICKETS 262-472-2222
www.uww.edu/youngauditorium
930 W Main St- UW-Whitewater Campus
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T H A N K YO U
Thank you to all of our sponsors and supporters for the 2011-12 Season! SEASON SPONSORS
CORPORATE SPONSORS
MEDIA SPONSORS
GRANTS UW System Institute on Race & Ethnicity
PREFERRED CATERING
SPECIAL RECOGNITION The Richard H. Driehaus Charitable Lead Trust 8 Young Auditorium
PREFERRED LODGING
ADDITIONAL SUPPORTERS
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2011 • 7: 30 PM Cultural Affairs Presents
Melissa Thodos, Founder and Artistic Director
Act I Fosse: Prelude Cool Hand Luke Tijuana Shuffle Mexican Breakfast Dancer, Net Getting There Quieting the Clock
Act II Exurgence Mock Hopelandic Shift
This program was supported in part by a grant from the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.
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PROGR A M Act I Fosse: Prelude Film Production and Design Chris Olsen, Kai Harding, Inc. Fosse Trilogy Premiered November 28, 2009 at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, Skokie Illinois Choreography: Bob Fosse Reconstruction, Transitional Choreography, and Direction: Ann Reinking Lighting Design: Nathan Tomlinson Costume Design: Elizabeth Rench Cool Hand Luke Mollie Mock Jeremy Blair Joshua Manculich Tijuana Shuffle Cara Carper Brian Hare Michael McDonald Mexican Breakfast Jessica Miller Tomlinson Danielle Scanlon Annie Deutz* This project has been made possible by the National Endowment for the Arts as part of American Masterpieces: Three Centuries of Artistic Genius. Additional funding to support the project to re-stage the works of choreographer Bob Fosse has been made available through a generous grant from The Saints, Volunteers for the Performing Arts. Dancer, Net (Solo One) Premiered July 16, 2010 in Thodos Dance Chicago’s ” New Dances” choreography performance series, Chicago Illinois Choreography: Wade Schaaf Music: “Prelude” from “Cello Suite #1 in 10 Young Auditorium
G Major” by J.S. Bach Lighting Design: Nathan Tomlinson Costume: Nathan Rohrer Dancer: Alissa Gigler* Getting There Premiered February 19, 2011 at the North Shore Center of Performing Arts, Skokie Illinois Choreography: Melissa Thodos Music: “Intro” by The XX Lighting: Nathan Tomlinson Costumes: Branimira Ivanova Dancers: Annie Deutz*, Brian Hare, and Danielle Scanlon Quieting the Clock Premiered July 16, 2010 in Thodos Dance Chicago’s “New Dances” choreography performance series Choreography: Francisco Avina and Stephanie Martinez Bennitt Music: “Light is Calling” by Michael Gordon and “Arpeggio” by Stephano Arnaldi Lighting Design: Nathan Tomlinson Costumes: Francisco Avina and Stephanie Martinez Bennitt Dancers: Jeremy Blair, Annie Deutz*, Brian Hare, Joshua Manculich, Michael McDonald, Jessica Miller Tomlinson, Mollie Mock, Danielle Scanlon, and Allyson Yates* Intermission Act II Exurgence Company Premiere Premiered July 29, 2011 in Thodos Dance Chicago’s “New Dances” choreography performance series, Chicago Illinois Choreography: Jeremy Blair and Mollie Mock Music: “The Optimist” and “Exurgency” by Zoe Keating Sound Editing: John Nevin Lighting Design: Nathan Tomlinson Costumes: Jeremy Blair and Mollie
P R O G R A M ( c o n t .) Mock Dancers: Cara Carper, Annie Deutz*, Ray Dones, Brian Hare, Joshua Manculich, Michael McDonald, Jessica Miller Tomlinson, Mollie Mock (feature), and Danielle Scanlon Hopelandic Premiered July 11, 2008 in Thodos Dance Chicago’s “New Dances “choreography performance series, Chicago Illinois Choreography: Kellie Hodges Music: Sigur Ros Lighting Design: Theodore Goodspeed, recreated by Nathan Tomlinson Costumes: Ashley Lauren Smith Dancers: Cara Carper, Jessica Miller Tomlinson, and Mollie Mock
Shift Premiered February 19, 2011 at the North Shore Center of the Performing Arts, Skokie Illinois Choreography: Ron De Jesús Music: “Music for Pieces of Wood” by Steve Reich, “First Drive Home” by Cliff Martinez, and “Century Rolls, Movement I” and “Grand Pianola Music: On the Great Divide” by John Adams Lighting: Nathan Tomlinson Costumes: Ron De Jesús and Betsy Bisland Dancers: Jeremy Blair, Cara Carper, Annie Deutz*, Ray Dones, Alissa Gigler*, Brian Hare, Joshua Manculich, Michael McDonald, Jessica Miller Tomlinson, Mollie Mock, Danielle Scanlon, and Allyson Yates* * indicates dancer apprentice
Can’t wait until showtime? At Footlights.com you can preview the program before opening night!
Ballet Folklorico De Antioquia, Colombia Wed. Feb. 22 - 7:30 pm
TICKETS 262-472-2222
www.uww.edu/youngauditorium
930 W Main St- UW-Whitewater Campus
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A B O U T T H O D O S DA N C E C H I C AG O “Breathtakingly athletic,”“powerfully beautiful,” performing “vibrant choreography” are among the many critical accolades that Thodos Dance Chicago (TDC) has received since its inception. Founded in 1992 by artistic director Melissa Thodos, this ensemble of well-rounded artists delivers contemporary dance to its audience with an appealing style that incorporates a variety of dance forms created and performed with innovative flair. The Company’s unique mission of inspiring expression through dance education, dance creation, and dance performance has established Thodos Dance Chicago as an innovative presence in American contemporary dance. Highlights of the Company’s annual performance season include its autumn and winter home concerts, touring engagements, and the critically acclaimed New Dances choreography performance series presented each summer. TDC has been regularly presented at Chicago’s Dance for Life fund raising benefit for HIV/AIDS as well as in the Dance Chicago Festival. The Company has performed in more than 50 dance venues in 15 states, as well as in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the International Istanbul Dance Festival, the Ankara Music and Dance Festival, the Busan International Dance Festival, South Korea and at Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival. TDC has collaborated with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Remy Bumppo Theater, and three times with Fulcrum Point New Music Project, as well as with numerous individual studio artists and musicians. In addition to performing choreography of its resident artistic staff, TDC performs a diverse array of works created by other well-known choreographers: Tony Award-winner Ann Reinking, Lar Lubovitch, Shapiro & Smith, Lucas Crandall, Jon Lehrer, Brock Clawson, Michael Anderson, Zachary Whittenburg, Amy Ernst, and Ron De Jesús. In addition, TDC ensemble members themselves create highlycharged, illuminating world premieres every year in the Company’s acclaimed New Dances choreography series that audiences have found “exquisite,” “phenomenal,” and “inspirational.” Selected works from the series are chosen to become part of the Company’s repertoire each year, and two works have been performed by The Joffrey Ballet and Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, respectively. Reaching young minds through dance education is vital to Thodos Dance Chicago. As a teaching company, members of this highly trained ensemble hold BA’s and MFA’s in dance, and teach at the elementary, high school and university levels. TDC is well-suited for residency programs where performances, lecture demonstrations, workshops and master classes go hand in hand. TDC is in residence at The Menomonee Club for Boys and Girls where it teaches daily classes and operates a Youth Ensemble. TDC also offers a robust dance fitness curriculum for adults through partnership with the Chicago Sport and Social Club and hosts week-long intensive programs every summer geared to preprofessional and professional dancers. For more information about programs and upcoming performances of Thodos Dance Chicago, please regularly visit our website at www.thodosdancechicago.org.
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B OA R D O F D I R E C TO R S Elaine Rosenfeld Margulis, President Paula Bork, Treasurer Lesli Babbs, Secretary Clinton Correa Rick Johnston Shannon Raglin-Cecola
Bradley Dineen Diane Reilly
Darlene Johnson Melissa Thodos Kim Vatis
Founder and Artistic Director.......................................................................... Melissa Thodos Interim Executive Director...................................................................................Rick Johnston Rehearsal Director and Ballet Mistress................................................................ Laura Gates Resident Lighting Designer and Production Manager..................... Nathan Tomlinson Resident Sound Designer.......................................................................................... John Nevin Resident Costume Designer.............................................................................. Nathan Rohrer Film Design and Production..................................................Chris Olsen - Kai Harding, Inc. Thodos Dance Chicago is professionally represented for touring by Jodi Kaplan and Associates, New York The Company...................................................................................... Jeremy Blair, Cara Carper, Annie Deutz*, Ray Dones, Alissa Gigler*, Brian Hare, Joshua Manculich, Michael McDonald, Jessica Miller Tomlinson, Mollie Mock, Danielle Scanlon, Allyson Yates* * indicates apprentice Work Study Interns........................................................ John Cartwright, Caitlin Cucchiara, Chelsea deVera, Jon Sloven** ** indicates performance work study intern Artistic Administrative Assistant & School Director.......................................Jenna Dillon Graphic Design............................................................................Brad Cawley - Chemistry, Inc. Public Relations........................................................ Jay Kelly - L.C. Williams and Associates Photography............................................................................................................... Cheryl Mann ARTIST BIOGR APHIES Choreographers Founder and Artistic Director Melissa Thodos has been described by critics as “a choreographer with a bright and lively imagination.” The Chicago Sun-Times wrote: “Thodos displays a fine musicality and elegant lyricism; there is a sort of New Age mysticism about much of her work. Everything is fluid, and she is able to create beautiful stage pictures in which lots of things are going on simultaneously. She is a skillful and eclectic choreographer with a talent for creating a well-defined mood and interesting group patterns. She also pays considerable attention to elements of design.”
These are just examples of the accolades Thodos has received as a performer, choreographer and director over a span of 20 years. In 1992, Thodos founded Melissa Thodos & Dancers (later renamed Thodos Dance Chicago), and has developed it into one of Chicago’s most innovative and top performing companies. The environment Melissa has created also serves as an incubator for its artists as choreographers and as teachers. Ensemble members are invited to join Thodos Dance Chicago based on an audition and an in-depth evaluation of their achievement as performers, educators and choreographers. The Company holds a very unique position Young Auditorium 13
A R T I S T B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) in the national community of dance for this very reason. The company’s fresh, athletic, award-winning style has been well received by critics worldwide: British Herald - “Serene athleticism... every aspect of the choreography is truly satisfying”; Chicago Reader - “The Company’s repertoire is so rich… the dancers are superb.” The Chicago Sun-Times - “strong and attractive... engaging... lovely...they perform with solid strength and feeling.” Thodos Dance Chicago clearly serves as a platform for over 30 acclaimed works that Melissa Thodos has created over her career. Of her work, artistic director emeritus Gerald Arpino of the Joffrey Ballet writes “highly innovative and technically strong.” Melissa has created three times in collaboration with Fulcrumpoint New Music Project under the artistic direction of Stephen Burns, with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and with Remy Bumppo Theatre Company and most recently in the fall of 2011 with Luna Negra Dance Theatre. An honored veteran of the Chicago dance community, Thodos, born in Evanston, received early dance training at the Evanston School of Ballet. She continued her study of both classical and contemporary technique at Skidmore College in Saratoga, New York, and then the Ruth Page Dance School, the Dance Center of Columbia College and the Lou Conte Dance Studio, all in Chicago. Thodos founded Thodos Dance Chicago following years of success as both a performer and choreographer with The Chicago Repertory Dance Ensemble on the local, national and international contemporary dance circuits, performing her own work as well as works by Paul Taylor, Lar Lubovitch, Zeva Cohen, and very established Chicago based artists. Since then the Company, with its 14 Young Auditorium
unique mission to perform, create and educate, has gained its own acclaim and has been invited to perform in some of the most prestigious dance showcases and venues throughout Chicago, and the world. Thodos’ work has been presented in venues coast to coast in America; in Paris on numerous occasions; Edinburgh, Scotland; Australia; and in Turkey for two festivals, at the International Ankara Music and Dance Festival and Istanbul Dance Festival. Thodos Dance Chicago repertoire also includes works of selected ensemble members, as well as those of acclaimed guest choreographers Ann Reinking, Lar Lubovitch, Shapiro & Smith, Amy Ernst, and Ron De Jesus, among others. Through her company, Thodos participates in community outreach programs, bringing dance to innercity and suburban school children. She has set more than 20 works on high school and university dance companies. Thodos is a resident faculty member of The Broadway Theater Project, under the artistic direction of Debra McWalters and co-founded with Ann Reinking, where she teaches master classes and choreographs alongside such noted artists as Ben Vereen, Desmond Richardson, Charlotte d’Amboise, John Kander, Chita Rivera, and Jeff Calhoun, among others. Ann Reinking A Broadway and film veteran, Ann Reinking won a Tony Award for best Choreography for the Broadway revival of the Bob Fosse musical Chicago in 1997, and has been nominated as Best Actress (Goodtime Charley, 1975), Best Featured Actress (Dancin’, 1978) and Best Director (Fosse, 1999). Her work on Chicago has also honored her with the 1996 L.A. Drama Critic’s Award, the 1997 Drama Desk Award and Outer Critic’s Circle Award, as well as the Astaire Award. Her previous work in the
A R T I S T B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) city of Chicago includes the world premieres of Fosse Trilogy in 2009, Rossini Recess – What Dancers Would Do If They Still Could Go Out and Play in 2007, and CAUTION: Side Effects in 2004, all for Thodos Dance Chicago, as well as choreographer of Pal Joey at the Goodman Theatre in 1988 and 2001’s Kander & Ebb premiere of “The Visit”, also at the Goodman. “The Visit” was revived again in the spring of 2009 at the Signature Theatre in Washington, DC. Ann was raised as one of seven children in Seattle, WA. She started ballet lessons in the sixth grade and as a teenager won a Ford Foundation scholarship to study with the San Francisco School of Ballet and a second scholarship to study with Robert Joffrey. Following high school she moved to New York where she began her extensive career with the Corps de Ballet at Radio City Music Hall. Ann is a natural teacher. She created a musical theatre program that brings together working professionals with gifted young people. “Musical theatre is an American art form that must be kept alive,” says Reinking. Bob Fosse Bob Fosse, a native Chicagoan, was born Jun 23, 1927. His visionary choreography changed the course of Broadway dance with his provocative, sexy vocabulary. Following a notable career as a dancer Mr. Fosse went on to win an Academy Award in 1973 for directing the movie Cabaret (which also won a best actress Oscar for Liza Minnelli), three Emmy awards for directing, producing and choreographing Minnelli’s TV special Liza with a Z, and two Tony Awards for directing and choreographing the Broadway show Pippin. Fosse’s other hit Broadway shows include Sweet Charity (1965), Chicago (1975), and Dancin’ (1978). Fosse’s life is capsulated
in the semi-autobiographical movie All That Jazz (1979). A 1998 revue, Fosse, collected his most famous dance works into one show for which Ann Reinking won a Tony nomination as Best Director. Fosse died in 1987 during the run of a revival of his 1965 show Sweet Charity. Ron De Jesús Ron De Jesús (Choreographer & Artistic Director of Ron De Jesús Dance) danced with Ensemble Espanol, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, starred in MOVIN’ OUT- Broadway’s Musical, Artistic Ambassador of Northeastern Illinois University, and Artistic Associate for StagePlay’s Theater Company. Film credits: Road to Perdition, Stay & Across the Universe. Awards for Excellence: Best Choreographer - Chicago Music & Dance Alliance Award, New York Musical Theater Festival, DanceBreak, National Choreographers’ Initiative, Ruth Page Award for “Outstanding Male Dancer”, Carbonell Award. Created for: Aetna, Philips, Verizon commercials. Choreographed for: A League of Their Own film, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, BalletMet, Sacramento Ballet, Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, Luna Negra Dance Theatre, Ballet Hispanico, Thodos Dance, New Jersey Repertory, Vladimir Malakhov’s Staatsballet Berlin and future creation for Ballet Arkansas 2011. Mr. De Jesús is a Ballet Master for Twyla Tharp Productions, setting Ms. Tharp’s works on dance companies around the world. * Ron has worked with the following companies Norwegian Cruise Line, NBA Ballet-Japan, Washington Ballet, Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, Alabama Ballet, Sacramento Ballet, and Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, among others. Stephanie Martinez Bennitt Stephanie Martinez Bennitt has performed with numerous Chicagobased ensembles. These have included Luna Negra Dance Theater, Young Auditorium 15
B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) Same Planet Different World, River North Chicago Dance Company, James Kelly Choreography Project, and Concert Dance Inc. She was also a featured dancer for Diana Ross’s appearance in the 2006 World Cup Opening Ceremonies. Stephanie has extensive experience in major industrial and trade shows, and she has made several appearances on PBS and MTV. She is a former Ruth Page Award winner and has studied on scholarship with Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, and Joseph Holmes Chicago Dance Theater. She has also been a principle dancer with the Lyric Opera of Chicago in productions of Manon and The Merry Widow. Currently, Stephanie choreographs works for dance companies locally and around the country. Francisco Avina Francisco Avina’s training started at Orange County High School of the Performing Arts and continued at The Ailey School. He worked as a dancer in such projects as Celine Dion’s A New Day, Newsies, Batman and Robin, Michael Jackson’s Sisterella, Fame L.A. the TV series, The World Billboard Music Awards, and numerous industrials for corporations including Adidas, Canon, Nike, Reebok, Asics, Nintendo and Aveda. Since moving to Chicago, Avina has performed with Hubbard Street 2, River North Chicago Dance Company, and Hubbard Street Dance Chicago. His choreography credits include Gianni Versace fashion show in Singapore, 10th Annual American Choreography Awards in Los Angeles, Nickelodeon’s Kid’s Choice Awards with Justin Timberlake, and three pieces for Hubbard Street 2, one of which won a national choreography competition. In Mexico City he choreographed Disney’s High School Musical La Seleccion which led to Disney’s High School Musical Mexico-The Movie. He completed the first piece set on Danceworks Chicago 16 Young Auditorium
entitled Track 4 under the artistic direction of Julie Nakagawa. Avina collaborated with Stephanie Martinez for the first time for Luna Negra Dance Theater’s 10th anniversary where they created AviMar. Wade Schaaf Wade Schaaf hails from the Chicago area and graduated Cum Laude from Northern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in theater arts (emphasis dance performance). During his professional career Wade has danced for such companies as the Ohio Ballet, State Street Ballet Santa Barbara, The Omaha Theater Ballet, Norwegian Cruise Lines, River North Chicago Dance Company, and Thodos Dance Chicago. He has worked with choreographers Septime Weber, Stephen Mills, Kennet Oberly, Bill Soleau, Frank Chaves, and Laurie Stallings. Wade has been privileged to dance such roles as Tybalt in Robin Welche’s “Romeo and Juliet”, Snow Pas in Welche’s “The Nutcracker”, and Jonathan in Oberly’s “Dracula”. Currently, he has set his own work on the Omaha Theater Ballet, Groundwork Dance Company, and Wade’s work “Awakening”, as well as his solo work “Dancer, Net” are both part of Thodos Dance Chicago’s repertoire. Wade is a certified Pilates instructor and teaches extensively throughout Chicago in most disciplines of dance. STAFF, RESIDENT ARTISTS Laura Gates - Rehearsal Director and Ballet Mistress Laura Gates holds degrees in Dance and Psychology from the University of Iowa. While there she was privileged to have worked with many gifted artists including: Francoise Martinet, David Berkey, Randy Duncan, and Mauricio Wainrot. Upon returning to Chicago after graduation, she performed locally with Swallow Cliff Dance Company, Concert Dance Inc., and several independent choreographers. In
B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) 1999, Ms. Gates joined Thodos Dance Chicago. Highlights of her six year performance tenure with TDC include performing in Dance for Life, meeting and working with Ann Reinking, and touring with the company to Turkey. She has also enjoyed being a master teacher for the TDC Summer Dance Workshop. Laura is passionate about teaching dance and has taught in the Chicago area for 10 years. She has been an adjudicator for the State Wide Dance Competition and on guest faculty at Northeastern Illinois University and the Chicago National Association of Dance Masters. She is proud to be working with the talented artists of TDC as rehearsal director and ballet mistress. Rick Johnston – Interim Executive Director Rick Johnston has long been a patron of the arts, and for a five year period was the owner of “The Bulls” jazz nightclub in Chicago. He was an investment banker for Smith Barney and Nuveen for 15 years specializing in real estate finance. In 2000 he created his own company (So-Oli, Inc. named after his daughters Sophia and Olivia) to develop and purchase residential rental housing. Mr. Johnston has been involved with Thodos Dance Chicago since its inception, having created the organizational structure and recruited the original board of directors. Mr. Johnston has a B.A. from Davidson College and an M.B.A. from Cornell University. John Nevin - Resident Composer and Sound Designer John Nevin is an independent record producer, and he has worked with Thodos Dance Chicago since the Company’s first season. He has composed original scores for the works Reflect (“Hidden”), Anasa (“Breathe Again”), Shaun’s Room (“Let It All Down”), and Unraveling the Myth (“Unraveling the Myth”, in collaboration with Jillian Chu), all of which appear
as releases by John’s group ‘ohana on All Over The Place Records. John works closely with the choreographers of the Company in the construction and editing of the sound tracks for their works, often including the composition of transitional and developmental passages to blend different musical selections together. It is an experience he enjoys tremendously. Nathan Tomlinson - Resident Lighting Designer Since graduating from the North Carolina School of the Arts with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatrical Sound Design and Engineering, Nathan Tomlinson has been increasingly involved in endeavors, of both the theatrical and concert genres, that have expanded his professional creativity in lighting and scenic design. He has designed and managed projects featured in several prominent industry magazines such as PLSN, Live Sound International, Total Productions US, and Live Design. Critics have described his designs as “refreshing displays” while adding “unique and deep elements” to the performance. His versatility is further evident in that he has also worked creatively with a variety of Grammy award-winning artists including Doc Watson, Trick Pony, R. Kelly, Buddy Guy, and Andrew Bird. Nathan is currently the Lighting Director for Sound Investment based out of Chicago where he has been lighting high profile award shows, fashion shows as well as many other unique events including Galas for the International Olympic Committee and others. In 2009 Nathan was awarded a Biz Bash award for best use of technology in lighting design. Christopher Kai Olsen - Film Design Emmy Award®-winning filmmaker Christopher Kai Olsen first collaborated with Anne Reinking and Melissa Thodos in 2009 with the documentary film “Fosse:Prelude,” which opened Young Auditorium 17
T H E C O M PA N Y their North American tour of “Fosse Trilogy.” A multifaceted media artist, Olsen became enamored with dance while filming his Emmy-nominated PBS documentary The Artsiders and, soon after, began producing, directing and choreographing his own dance films, including the poetry-laced Butterfly, the playful Fancy (“a tale of romance told entirely through dance”) and the upcoming musical production BGD. In addition to his live action and performing arts endeavors, Chris is a renowned animation director, whose work can be seen in numerous productions including his adorable Ursula the Über-Girl short films, the hit animated television series VeggieTales and the upcoming action comedy series The Karl Dahl Show. Nathan R. Rohrer - Costumer Designer Nathan R. Rohrer’s costumes have been seen in dance and theatre productions citywide. He has designed numerous works for Hubbard Street Dance Chicago’s second company, as well as River North Chicago Dance and Deeply Rooted Productions. He has also designed for numerous theatre companies such as Emerald City Theatre, City Lit Theatre, The New Colony, and countless other performing arts entities in Chicago. With Thodos Dance Chicago, Nathan has designed Wade Schaaf’s Awakening and Dancer, Net. Nathan received his B.A. in Drama from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point. Jenna Dillon – Artistic Administrative Assistant & School Director Jenna Dillon is a 2009 graduate of Columbia College Chicago earning a Bachelor of Arts in Dance/ Choreography with a minor in Entertainment Management. Since graduation, she has continued to perform, choreograph and teach in Chicago. An activist in the arts community, she has developed skills through both theatre and concert 18 Young Auditorium
dance. Dillon has participated in the Deeply Rooted Summer Intensive, The Dance COLEctive Summer Intensive, Thodos Dance Chicago Summer Intensive, and worked with Zephyr Dance. She has performed works by Bonnie Brooks & Jeff Hancock, Paige Cunningham, Lisa Williamham-Johnson, Twyla Tharp and Matthew Hollis to name a few. Jenna is in her third season now as Artistic Administrative Assistant and Dance Program Director with TDC. THE COMPANY Jeremy Blair - Dancer/Choreographer Jeremy Blair began training as a gymnast at age three and discovered dance at Millikin University where he graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and a minor in Dance. He studied circus arts and performed with Friches Theatre Urbaine in Paris as a stilt and trapeze artist. In Chicago he has performed with AMEBA Acrobatic and Aerial Dance, Chicago Moving Company, Khecari Dance Theatre, and Lucky Plush Productions. He teaches youth dance classes for the Menomonee Club for Boys and Girls as well as adult fitness and yoga for the Chicago Sport and Social Club and is a registered Hatha Yoga instructor. His collaborative work with Mollie Mock “Reflect”, which premiered at New Dances 2009 became part of Thodos Dance Chicago’s repertoire.., and their current collaborative work “Exurgence” from New Dances 2011 is premiering with the Compnay for TDC’s 2011-12 season. Jeremy joined Thodos Dance Chicago in 2007. Cara Carper - Dancer Cara Carper, originally from Pittsburgh PA, grew up in a familyowned studio. Being born into the art of movement she started her professional dance career at an early age. After several years in the commercial industry working with corporations such as the Walt Disney Company, Jean Ann Ryan Productions
B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) and affiliations of Cirque du Soleil, she recently relocated to Chicago to join the second company of Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago. While there, Cara founded an Acrobatics Program at the Giordano Dance School. This is Cara’s second season dancing with Thodos Dance Chicago. Annie Deutz – Dancer Apprentice Annie Deutz is originally from Marshall, MN where she began her dance training at a local studio. She continued her passion for dance at The University of Arizona’s School of Dance where she graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance. While studying there, Annie performed works by Susan Quinn, Sam Watson, Michael Williams, Douglas Nielsen, Melissa Lowe, and Amy Ernst. In June of 2009, Annie was invited to perform at the Kiel Week Festival in Kiel, Germany. Since moving to Chicago, Annie has performed with Inaside Chicago Dance and in the Dance Chicago Festival. In addition to dancing, Annie is also a certified personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine. This is Annie’s second season with Thodos Dance Chicago. Ray Dones – Dancer Ray Dones graduated from Houston’s High School for the Performing & Visual Arts, while studying extensively at the Houston Ballet Academy. He then went on to attend Southern Methodist University on a full dance scholarship. Ray continued his studies and career in New York City, where he performed with “A Few Good Men...Dancing!” under the direction of Jeff Amsden and was guest artist for Poz Dance Theatre in Seoul, Korea. In 2002, Ray was the recipient of the Leo’s Silver Award for choreography at the Jazz Dance World Chicago. Since then, Ray has performed with the Houston Metropolitan Dance Company, Uptown Dance to Company, and Celia Marta Dance Company. In addition, Ray has taught and
choreographed around the country and abroad in Italy, Mexico, Austria, and Korea. He is also a master teacher for the Youth American Grand Prix in Cordoba, Mexico and served on faculty for many years at Ben Stevenson’s Houston Ballet Academy. His most recent professional dance experience in 2010 was with Luna Negra Dance Theatre. This is Ray’s first season with Thodos Dance Chicago. Alissa Gigler – Dancer Apprentice Alissa Gigler graduated Magna Cum Laude from Hope College in December 2010 where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Special Education and Dance Education. While at Hope, Alissa received the Distinguished Artist Award as well as the DeLong Dance Award for outstanding achievement in dance. The Chicago native spent her summer in the city where she apprenticed for River North Dance Chicago for two summers and participated in the Scholarship Program and Lou Conte Dance Studio. Alissa has performed works by many noted choreographers such as Frank Chaves, John Lehrer and Randy Duncan. She most recently performed in Thodos Dance Chicago’s New Dances 2011. Alissa is thrilled to begin her first season as a Dancer Apprentice with Thodos Dance Chicago! Brian Hare - Dancer/Choreographer Brian Hare is originally from Bloomfield Hills, MI. He is a graduate with honors of Columbia College Chicago with a degree in Arts Entertainment Media Management and Dance. Brian has performed as a company member with Chicago Dance Crash and Corpo Dance Company, as a guest artist with Cerqua Rivera Dance Theatre, and in independent projects for Dance Chicago. He teaches students of all ages and disciplines at several Chicago dance studios and has studied under teachers including Judy Rice and Lorraine Susa at Dance Masters of America Teachers Training Program. Young Auditorium 19
B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) Brian’s work “Temporary Proof”, which premiered at New Dances 2010, has been selected for the Thodos Dance Chicago 2010 – 2011 season repertoire. Brian joined Thodos Dance Chicago in 2008. Joshua Manculich - Dancer/ Choreographer Joshua Manculich, who hails from Windber, PA, began dance study under the direction of Sharon Wissinger at the age of fourteen. He is a 2009 Magna Cum Laude graduate of Point Park University with a Bachelor’s degree in Dance and minor in Psychology. While there he had the opportunity to perform works by Jennifer Keller, Caroline Skjorshammer, Kiesha Lalama-White, Peter LeBreton Merz, Nicolas Petrov, Douglas Bentz, and Whitney Moncrief. Joshua’s performance credits include The Pillow Project, an innovative Pittsburghbased company under the direction of Pearl Ann Porter. Joshua joined Thodos Dance Chicago in 2009. Michael McDonald – Dancer/ Choreographer Michael McDonald is originally from Novi, MI and began dance at the age of fourteen. He graduated from Western Michigan University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance. While at Western Michael had the opportunity to perform works by Antony Tudor, Frank Chaves, Gerald Arpino, Harrison McEldowney, Ron De Jesús, and Whitney Moncrief. Michael received the Partners in Dance Scholarship at Western and two full merit scholarships to River North Chicago Dance Company’s summer intensives. He has attended numerous American College Dance Festivals both as a performer and as a choreographer. Michael’s choreography has also been accepted into several student and faculty concerts at Western. Michael joined Thodos Dance Chicago in 2010. 20 Young Auditorium
Jessica Miller Tomlinson - Dancer/ Choreographer Jessica Miller Tomlinson graduated from the North Carolina School of the Arts with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in contemporary Dance. As a young dancer, Jessica had the fortunate opportunity to apprentice with the NC Dance Theatre under the direction of former New York City Ballet principals Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux and Patricia McBride. She has performed works by Warren Conover, Paul Taylor, David Parsons, Neta Pulvermacher, Mark Morris, Lar Lubovitch, Lucas Crandall and Bob Fosse. In the summer of 2002 Jessica performed in the Taos, New Mexico Dance Festival where she worked with Gail Gilbert and Kevin Wynn. Upon moving to Chicago, she was on scholarship for a year at the Lou Conte Studio. It was during this time that Jessica was honored to collaborate with Lauri Stallings of the Hubbard Street Dance Company. Jessica has choreographed professionally for the Chautauqua Ballet Company, NC School of the Arts and for Thodos Dance Chicago. Jessica’s work “Forget What You Came For?”, which premiered at New Dances 2006, and her most recent work “Architecture: Splintered and Cracked” from New Dances 2009 were selected to become part of the repertoire of Thodos Dance Chicago. In the summer of 2008, Jessica was selected as the Guest Alumni Choreographer for NC School of the Arts summer scenes in Manteo, NC, where her work “Die Lieder Tanzen” was performed. In June 2009 Jessica was awarded the Grand Prize, a $10,000 grant from the Joyce Theatre Foundation, for her work “Forget What You Came For?” in The A.W.A.R.D. Show 2009! Chicago hosted by the Dance Center of Columbia College. Jessica currently serves as co-artistic director for Thodos/ Menomonee Club Youth Ensemble in addition to teaching ballet, dance medley and jazz for the youth dance
B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) program at the Menomonee Club for Boys & Girls. Jessica joined Thodos Dance Chicago in 2005. Mollie Mock - Dancer/Choreographer Mollie Mock began her early dance training in Beckley, WV and furthered her studies at North Carolina School of the Arts, California University of PA, and WV Governors School for the Arts. She went on to graduate Magna Cum Laude from Point Park University with a Bachelor of Arts in ballet and jazz. While there she had the opportunity to perform works by Margo Sappington, Daniel Ezralow, Lynne Taylor-Corbett, and Douglas Bentz. Since moving to Chicago, Mollie trained on scholarship at the Lou Conte Dance Studio and as a summer apprentice with River North Dance Company Chicago. Mollie was a featured soloist in Thodos Dance Chicago’s collaboration with Fulcrum Point New Music Project’s “Hong Kong Comes to the Fulcrum Point”. Her collaborative work with Jeremy Blair “Reflect”, which premiered at New Dances 2009 became part of Thodos Dance Chicago’s repertoire. Mollie is an active teacher in the Chicagoland area and has been an ensemble member of Thodos Dance Chicago since 2007. Danielle Scanlon - Dancer/ Choreographer Danielle Scanlon is a 2007 Cum Laude honors graduate from Point Park University in Pittsburgh, PA with a Bachelor of Arts in Jazz and Classical Ballet. She also trained in San Francisco with Alonzo King LINES Ballet. She was awarded the 2006 Rising Star Scholarship Award for Point Park University’s Conservatory of Performing Arts, and was also selected to attend the American College Dance Festival. Danielle has been a guest artist for the Johnstown Ballet and Toledo Ballet Theatre. In her college career, she performed works by Ron De Jesús, Jiabin Pan, Francis Patrelle, Danny Buraczeski, Christian Holder, and Margo
Sappington as well as faculty works by Kiesha Lalama-White, Doug Bentz, Peter Merz, Jay Kirk, and Nicolas Petrov. At Point Park she performed the role of Ivy Smith in the musical “On the Town.” Danielle was given the opportunity to perform in the finale of Dance for Life in 2008 choreographed by Randy Duncan. She is the Co-Artistic Director for the Thodos/Menomonee Club Youth Ensemble and an adult dance fitness instructor with the Chicago Sport and Social Club. She is also the administrator of the TDC’s Dancer Wellness Program. Danielle has been with Thodos Dance Chicago since 2007. Allyson Yates – Dancer Apprentice Allyson Yates began her training in Honolulu, Hawaii where she earned an International Baccalaureate of Dance from Mid-Pacific School of Fine Arts. In May 2011 she graduated with Distinction from the University of Oklahoma, receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts. While in attendance at the university, she performed works by Nathan Trice, Austin Hartel, Derrick Minter, Cheyla Clawson, Fritz Ludin, Alvin Ailey, Robert Battle, Darrell Moultrie, and Martha Graham. Allyson received the Ovation Award for outstanding performance quality in the 2009-2010 and 2001 season. She danced with Clawson Dances in collaboration with Ririe-Woodbury company members in the Jeremy Clawson Memorial Concert. This is Allyson’s first season with Thodos Dance Chicago as a Dancer Apprentice. WORK STUDY INTERNS John Cartwright – Understudy/ Choreographer John Cartwright is originally from Madisonville, KY and began his training in Evansville, IN at the Children’s Center for Dance Education. He continued his training with the Kentucky Governor’s School for the Arts, Nashville Ballet, Ballet Austin, National Taiwan Young Auditorium 21
B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) University of the Arts, and the Paul Taylor Dance Company. He has had the privilege to work with choreographers such as Steven Mills, Val Caniprioli, Adam Hougland, Helen Pickett, Amy Seiwert, and Lila York. John graduated from Butler University in May 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts in Dance and Arts Administration and joined the Louisville Ballet that fall. He has worked as guest artist with Ballet Arkansas, the Indianapolis Opera, and as a dancer/ choreographer with Louisville’s Moving Collective. This is John’s second season as a work/study Intern with Thodos Dance Chicago. Caitlin Cucchiara - Understudy Caitlin Cucchiara Caitlin Cucchiara, 22, first began her dance training at the age of two in Rochester, New York and has been consistently studying all forms of dance since. She is a 2011 Magna Cum Laude graduate from Point Park University where she earned a degree in Bachelor of Fine Arts in Jazz. While studying at Point Park University she had the opportunity to perform works by Doug Verone, David Parsons, Nicolas Petrov Dionna PridGeon, Kassandra Taylor and Ahmad Simmons. Caitlin was also chosen to perform at the American College Dance Festival Association in 2009 and 2010. This is Caitlin’s first year in Chicago and her first season at Thodos Dance Chicago. She is excited and looking forward to the year.
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Chelsea de Vera Chelsea de Vera is originally from Newbury Park, CA where she studied at California Dance Theatre and attended the summer programs of American Ballet Theatre and Alonzo King’s Lines Ballet. Chelsea graduated Cum Laude from Point Park University in Pittsburgh, PA with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance with a concentration in Jazz. During her time at Point Park University she had the opportunity to perform works by Martha Graham, Melissa Barak, Judith Leifer-Bentz, and Doug Bentz. She is thrilled to be back at Thodos Dance Chicago for her second season as an intern. Jon Sloven – Performing Work Study Intern Jon Sloven, originally from Denver Colorado, began his formal dance training at Colorado College where he received his BA in Economics with minors in Music and Dance. His dance career ignited at the University of Arizona where he earned an MFA in choreography and performance, receiving the Most Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award. Jon’s professional career has spanned from Denver to Chicago to Kiel, as a company member with Same Planet Different World, Winifred Haun & Dancers, and Wats-on-Dance. His time with Kim Robards Dance allowed him the opportunity to perform at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. Jon is an internationally recognized teacher throughout the USA and Germany as well as a flourishing choreographer, most recently creating works for Ballet Nouveau Colorado, Colorado College, and the preprofessional dancers of The Joffrey Ballet Chicago. This is his first season dancing as a performing trainee with Thodos Dance Chicago.
M E M B E R S 2 011- 2 012 Director’s Council James R. Connor Lolita Kachel Francine L. Pease Director’s Circle Ron & Ann Abele James & Julie Caldwell Robert & Yvonne Fiskum David & Kathy Granum H. Gaylon & Hannah Greenhill Mark McPhail Kenneth & Dorothy Otting Julian & Anne Stinson Chuck & Barb Taylor Richard & Veronica Telfer Ambassador Craig & Bonnie Anderson Richard & Kathy Haven Dawn & Lyle Hunter Mitzi Joseph Ken & Susie Kidd Ken Kohberger Dr. Beverly Kopper Everett & Ellen Long Craig Matzinger Earl & Susan Paddock Dennis & Margaret Rohrs Carole Scharinger William & Marlyne Seymour Richard & Judy Triebold Elmer Werhane Patron Forrest Bright Robert & Marion Burrows Winona Campbell James Carlson Rollin & Nancy Cooper Jo Coulthart Donna G. Fox Jack & Betty Frawley Thomas Grotelueschen Ginny Hall Glenn & Christine Hayes Jean J. Hermsen John & Nancy Hoffmann Geraldine & Robert Jennings Doris Jones Mary Kenne
Arthur Kolb & Dorothy Kopp Orville & Carol Larson Nels & Gloria Madsen Rowland & Audrey McClellan Michael & Jean Morrissey Margaret Mueller John & Arlene Newhouse Mark & Germaine Olm Terry & Arlene Ostermeier Jerry & Jan Palzkill Anthony & Lenore Pavlick Lyn & Mary Kay Piatt Mary Hill-Roth & Ted Roth Jim & Sue Schlough Jerry & Bunny Schoen Betty Schoonover Lewis & Kathleen Scott Cynthia Smith Ben Strand & Kari Borne Dean & Shirley Taylor Donald & Marjorie Triebold Pamela & David Van Doren David Veith Vivian & Fred Welch Robert Wright & Elizabeth Asher Karl & Doris Zahn Supporter Curtis & Diane Abendroth Helmut & Martha Ajango Stanley & Ann Alger Rod Anderson Julia Armstrong Michael & Karen Atwood Steve & Pam Barnes Bob & Cindy Barry Patricia & Thomas Bauhs Thomas & Christine E. Beckman Dale Benson Frank & Steph Beran Bruce Bertelsen James & Ginger Best Lynn & Cheryl Binnie Ron & Marilyn Binning Bryan Bishop
Elizabeth Blumberg Bill & Karen Bohn Jean Bourenske Paul & Nancy Breitsprecher Myra Brien Merrilyn Britzke James Bronson & Peggy Kuchen Kevin Brunner & Nancy Blake Brunner Susan Burkhardt Mary Beth Byrne Patricia Caldwell Gerald & Lois Caslavka Peter & Ann Chester Steve Cline Mr. & Mrs. Cohen Marilyn & Richard Coogan Lou Ann Covi Antionette Czebotar Dean & Bonnie Dahnert Jacqueline Dailey Corey Davis Joan Dedolph Audrey & Christian Gatz Nancy & Leo Geidel Mary Godfrey Norm & Polly Godfrey Barry & Margo Goldberg Karla Goodman Kathy & Jim Gross Skip & Carna Grover Robert Gruber Carol Guequierre Mark Gustafson & Su Ash Gustafson Elizabeth Haenisch Hans & Carla Hahn Margaret Hancock Diane Hanson Marian A. Hanson John & Jean Henderson Mark Hildebrand Susan Hiscox Lloyd & Daphne Holterman Gene & Charlotte Huntley Helene Hurdis Martha Johnson Richard & Susan Kaja Debra & Ken Kirkeby Sybil Klug Young Auditorium 23
M E M B E R S 2 011- 2 012 ( c o n t .) Sharon & Jeff Knight Bob & Gloria Knipschild Paul & Sue Kremer Irene Labonne Leota & Steve Larson Laura Lester Luann Livingston Dr. Steven & Larissa Lyon Connie & Alan Marshall Tom & Donna Marshall Edwin Mathews Sandra Matson Jeffrey McKinney Rosemary Metzdorff Jim & Carol Miller Bob Mischka Charles & Carolyn Mowbray Barry Mullen Marie Northey Lois O’Brien Tom & Mary Oehler Kim & Denise O’Keefe Michael & Marie Olson Richard & Judy Owens Larry & Mary Peiffer Astrid Peterson Kirke & Elaine Plank Donna Rice Dale & Colleen Riggs John & Julie Ripley James Rogers Dick & Julie Ruhe Daniel Sable Dennis & Mary Salverson Kathleen Salzwedel Doug & Karen Saubert Alice Scherer Ervin Schlepp Jean Schollmeier Dennis & Evelyn Schulz Robert & Sharon Schweitzer Roger & Helen Shimon
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Tom & Sue Short Larry & Edie Simons Patrick & Luly Snyder Thomas Spiegelhof Barbara Stallman Dave & Bonnie Stanley Dennis & Eva Stanton David & Cheryl Stedman Ann & Howie Stiff Lee Stoneking David & Merri Stoneman Charles Taggart Patricia Townsend Russell Treiterer Yvonne Treiterer Richard & Arlene Trewyn Angel & Chris Tullar Marc & Nancy Turner Ron & Sandra Van Able Carleen & Arthur VanderKoy John & Darlene Varnes Mary Lynn & Dennis Vogel John & Lila Waldman Donald Werdin & Carol Christ Oneida L. Wheeler Eda Wilson Rod & LaVonne Wittwer Jack & Ella Woodbury Mark & Peggy Wuenstel June Yantis Contributor Jackie Amundson & Dean Zweifel Susan & George Bauer Carl W. & Melba Bradberry Donald & Constance Brick Wendy Brown Carol Christ
George & Harriet Christopherson John Finney Margaret & Dale Fose Edward Groshan Richard Haney Donna J. Heid Henry Kenyon Kristin Koeffler Dr. & Mrs. Robert Koenitzer Steven Landfried Nancy Leinius Marie Martin Barbara McGlynn Thelma Robbins James & Cheral Sadler John & Mary Ellen Sanderson Rod & Sue Scherer Merle & Mary Lou Schinke Susan Sims Steve & Linda Steinhoff Miles A. & Nancy Stejskal Karolyn & Hugo Tscharnack Mary Ulrich Elsie Van Tassell Marge Ware Nettie Weber James & Mary Jo Wooldridge Daniel Yeazel Student Owen Kirkeby Matthew Knudtson Bryan McConnell Gerald Roche Lisa Tessene-Martin Matching Gift USG Foundation, Inc.