ig ro by d o n n
Presents
ig ro by d o n n
Written by Don Nigro Directed by Drew Brhel Stage Manager..............................................................................Judy Martel* Scenic Design........................................................................... Joseph A. Brhel Lighting Design......................................................................Holly Blomquist Costume Design.................................................................... Corey Lubowich Sound Design...................................................................................Paul Hurley Props Design................................................................................... Dana Fralick Fight Choreographer..............................................................James Fletcher Season Sponsored by
October 14 - November 6, 2011 The Studio Theatre 158 N. Broadway Milwaukee, WI Gorgons is presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH, INC.
*Member of Actors’ Equity Association The video and/or audio recording of this performance by any means whatsoever is strictly prohibited. Renaissance Theaterworks 1
CAST
Mildred.......................................................................................Marcella Kearns Ruth.................................................................................................Jennifer Rupp
N O T E S F R O M T H E D I R E C TO R , D R E W B R H E L What a deceptively remarkable play this is. When I was first reading it, I fancied myself way ahead of it: just another one of those scripts, I thought, where two strong individuals, hating one another at first, find mutual respect and even affection by being forced to work together. Typical rom-com stuff, if between a man and a woman (and if they’re both men, they have a fistfight with an indeterminate winner and emerge best friends). Or maybe, I thought, it’ll have the other stock ending, the farcical stock ending, where our two pro/antagonists come ever so close to reconciliation, only to have one of them make an unintentionally insulting remark, thereby sparking one last furious argument as the curtain falls. That’s farce for you: nobody learns anything; the philandering husband, though finally caught red-handed – and forgiven! – is in the end incapable of corralling his wandering eye; and we in the audience get to feel simultaneously superior and oh-so-sophisticated. But Mr. Nigro’s ending completely surprised me. His ending was so unexpected, in fact, that at first I didn’t know what to make of it. It disturbed me deeply, as I hope it will you, even though (and perhaps especially because) it made me laugh out loud. I hesitate to write any more about it, as you may very well be reading these notes before the performance has even begun, but when the end of the play arrives, I ask you to please realize that it is a very unusual ending indeed, neither black comedy nor true farce, but rather a sort of Black Farce. (The only thing I can think of with a similar ending is “Dr. Strangelove.”) Meanwhile, as I read the play for the first time, I was struck by the language these two women inflict on one another. Their insult battles are epic; in fact, they seemed to me at first blush to be a bit too epic. Long accustomed to these sorts of exchanges from other sources, especially television sitcoms, I began to feel that these matches consistently went on for about six volleys too many. What was going on here? Ruling out lousy writing (certainly, nothing else in the play suggested that), I eventually realized that the over-baked sparring was the point: these two old warhorses do not in the end know how to communicate, or even fight, in a normal way. They have inhabited their Hollywood personae for so long (Bette – I mean to say, Mildred – is the Cynical, No-nonsense Broad who always Gives it to you Straight, while Joan – I’m sorry, Ruth – is the Ultimate Glamorous Movie Star de Luxe), that they have lost the ability to remember their natural hair color, as it were. Every conversation has a script, every room is a sound stage, and they are only responding to the cues of the Director. As the play progresses, and as they work together on this second-rate Gothic potboiler, we occasionally see them approach a place where all their defenses are down, all their tried-and-true mannerisms drop away, and they are finally, actually, speaking honestly to one another. Will either of them break through? That is the real struggle of the play, and I promise not to spoil that ending for you here. 2 Renaissance Theaterworks
N O T E S F R O M T H E C O - A R T I S T I C D I R E C TO R , M A R I E K O H L E R The story of how Renaissance selected GORGONS is a typical one for our company, but may give our audiences an idea of how we generally go about selecting plays. Let me give you a peek inside the workings of this collaborative process. Last fall, during rehearsal period of REASONS TO BE PRETTY, director Suzan Fete was taking a breather and paged through the catalogue of new plays that Samuel French, Inc (a major dramatic publisher) routinely sends us. A play under the category “Comedy” called GORGONS caught her eye. When a summary described the play as a takeoff on “Whatever Happened to Baby Jane”, Suzan, a fan of that horror thriller, sent for it. At Renaissance we are always looking for a good comedy to provide punch to our season of three productions. Comedies are wonderful offerings when the scripts are good -- but good comic scripts with manageable-sized casts are rare. Suzan read the script, loved it and passed it on to Co-Artistic Director Jennifer Rupp who loved it as well. Then our usual Renaissance process began – a process we feel lends unique strength to our organization. GORGONS was read and discussed by the members of our Play Selection Advisory Committee – “the group of ten” who meet once a month for breakfast to read plays and offer Renaissance feedback on possible selections. The commitment and thoughtfulness they bring to their task is fantastic. Sometimes the group reads plays aloud – especially the ones that generate the most disagreement. And although the decision on play selection lies in the court of the Artistic staff, the committee’s thoughts and recommendations are highly valued. In this case, GORGONS received a “thumbs up” from the committee and Artistic staff. All felt that its quirky comedy nicely balanced the other two plays of our season: a lyrical one-woman play, NEAT, and a drama about marriage and infidelity, HONOUR. We requested and received rights to produce GORGONS for our season. We asked Drew Brhel, talented, smartas-a-whip local actor and director, to direct; we held auditions for the roles; Drew selected Marcella Kearns and Jennifer Rupp to play the inimitable Mildred and Ruth. PLAY AND PLAY WRIGHT Don Nigro, author of GORGONS, is a prolific contemporary American writer who has penned more than 300 plays. Often inspired by literary or historical themes, his plays’ subjects have ranged from Sigmund Freud to William Butler Yeats to Christopher Columbus to gangster Arnold Rothstein. Among his best known dramas are SEASCAPE WITH SHARK AND DANCER and MY SWEETHEART’S THE MAN IN THE MOON, about the murderous scandal involving showgirl Evelyn Nesbit and architect to the elite, Stanford White (produced in New York City in 2005). Nigro was born in and still resides near Malvern, Ohio. He received a B.A. in English from Ohio State University and an M.F.A. in dramatic arts from the University of Iowa. His awardwinning plays have been produced nationally and internationally. He cites Shakespeare, Samuel Beckett, Tom Stoppard, the King James Bible, Buster Keaton and the Marx Brothers as among his most important influences.
Vegetarian and Vegan Menu Over 40 Specialty Loose Leaf Teas
www.verdurastea.com 181 N. Broadway
(across from the Broadway Theatre Centre)
Renaissance Theaterworks 3
BIOGR APHIES Drew Brhel (Director) Drew happily returns to Renaissance Theaterworks, having directed THESE SHINING LIVES and performed in various other play readings over the past few years. Plays he has directed in the past include MEASURE FOR MEASURE and MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING (Milwaukee Shakespeare); WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF? (Bialystock & Bloom); THE SKIN OF OUR TEETH (Windfall); MOM’S THE WORD (In Tandem); RUMORS and THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST (Carroll University); NORMA, CENDRILLON, and THE MAGIC FLUTE (Milwaukee Opera); and THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE, DON GIOVANNI, THE MAGIC FLUTE, DIDO AND AENEAS, and THE GONDOLIERS (Opera ala Carte). He has also played principal roles with Milwaukee Repertory Theater, Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, Next Act Theatre, Skylight Opera Theatre, American Players Theatre, and Shakespeare festivals from coast to coast. CAST Marcella Kearns (Mildred) Marcella is a Milwaukee-based actor, teaching artist, and coach. In the Midwest, she has appeared with First Stage Children’s Theater, Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, In Tandem Theatre, goats & monkeys, Milwaukee Shakespeare, Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, and Milwaukee Repertory Theater. Outside the region, she has worked with Studio Arena Theatre, Chamber Repertory Theatre, and Texas Repertory Theatre. She serves as a teaching artist with First Stage, Milwaukee Rep, and What You Will. Marcy holds an MFA from the University of South Carolina and completed a Fulbright Fellowship in Vienna, Austria. 4 Renaissance Theaterworks
Jennifer Rupp (Ruth) Jennifer is Co-Founder and Co-Artistic Director of Renaissance Theaterworks. As an actress, her credits include productions with Renaissance Theaterworks, Next Act Theatre, First Stage, Bialystock & Bloom, Boulevard Ensemble, Milwaukee Dance Theatre, Madison Repertory, and Children’s Theater of Madison. Ms. Rupp is a co-creator of the RED PEPPER JELLY musicals, original shows written and performed by local Milwaukee artists and produced by RTW. Ms. Rupp also works with her husband, Dick Chudnow, and son, Nick Chudnow, as the Business Manager for ComedySportz Milwaukee. Holly Blomquist (Lighting Design) In addition to GORGONS, Holly’s lighting design work this season includes a re-mount of TEA AT FIVE (In Tandem Theatre), CIRCLE MIRROR TRANSFORMATION (Boulevard Ensemble), and upcoming productions HEROES (Milwaukee Chamber Theatre) and EDITH PIAF ONSTAGE (Skylight Opera Theatre). Favorite past work for RTW includes last season’s REASONS TO BE PRETTY. GORGONS marks a “full circle” experience for Holly as she is at long last reunited with her perennial favorite go-to guy, scene designer extrordinaire, and mentor Joe Brhel. Thanks to Julie and Drew for inviting me to work on this very funny play. Joseph A. Brhel (Scenic Design) A freelance designer by day, Joe has also been designing sets and props in the Milwaukee/Chicago area for thirty five (!) years. Joe is very happy to be collaborating with Drew again, and at Renaissance Theaterworks no less. What a great group of people to work with. Among his favorite show memories are; WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF?, WEST SIDE STORY and THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST. As always, Joe thanks his beautiful wife, Mary, for her love and support.
For the dog lover in all of us
New Season. New Home.
November 17 – December 18, 2011 255 S. Water St. www.nextact.org Box Office 414-278-0765 Don’t miss this doggone good comedy about the dog who saved a marriage. Sponsored by Polly and Giles Daeger
B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) James Fletcher(Fight Choreography) Fletcher is pleased to be working with Renaissance once again. When not slapping their members around, he’s busy running The Bunny Gumbo Theatre Company where he serves as Artistic Director. Currently he’s teaching at Marquette where he’s also directing IF YOU TAKE A MOUSE TO SCHOOL. Thank you for supporting local theater! Dana Fralick (Props Design) Having just completed the play NEW YORK to open his third season as Technical Director at Wisconsin Lutheran College, Dana is pleased to be working for Renaissance. Recent projects include the plays CRIMES OF TE HEART and LION IN WINTER for Milwaukee Chamber Theatre as well as SEE ROCK CITY, GULF VIEW DRIVE and J.B. for Wisconsin Lutheran College. Now, he can’t wait for the opening of the Chudnow Museum of Yesteryear, a renovated historic house showcasing some of Milwaukee’s most interesting history from the 1920’s and 30’s. It’s been a fun but exhausting designer’s dream.
has worked for Skylight Opera Theatre, Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, and Bialystock & Bloom (R.I.P.). Anthony is also Technical Director for Wild Space Dance Company and Danceworks Performance Company. In a parallel universe, Anthony is a partner in a small custom carpentry firm. Corey Lubowich (Costume Design) Corey is thrilled to working with Renaissance Theaterworks! A scenic and costume designer based in Chicago, his credits include ELECTION DAY (scenery), BROUGHT TO LIFE (scenery) and THE BEST MEDICINE (scenery and costumes). Corey is also a company member with StarKid Productions, where he has designed STARSHIP (scenery) and A VERY POTTER SEQUEL (scenery and costumes). A graduate of the University of Michigan, his work there includes THE FULL MONTY (scenery), the opera LITTLE WOMEN (scenery), PENTECOST (costumes) and UNDER MILK WOOD (costumes). www.luboworks.com
Judy Martel (Stage Manager) Though no stranger to this building Paul Hurley (Sound Design) or the Renaissance ladies (and gents), Paul is an actor and a sound designer. Judy’s only previous venture with He is thrilled to be working with Renais- them was a a reading of Marie Kohler’s sance again, where he did the sound wonderful play COUNTING DAYS. Most design for REASONS TO BE PRETTY, THE of her time here has been spent with SMELL OF THE KILL, and THE SHAPE OF Milwaukee Chamber Theatre -- highTHINGS, and performed three seasons lights include: 17 Shaw Festivals, THE ago in THE DIG. He has also designed DALY NEWS, TALKING HEADS, ANGELS sound for THE SYRINGA TREE at AmeriIN AMERICA, 84 CHARING CROSS can Players Theatre and for PICNIC at ROAD, MASTER CLASS, THREE DAYS Milwaukee Chamber Theatre. OF RAIN, THE IMMIGRANT, RAT IN THE SKULL, FAITH HEALER, MAN AND SUPERAnthony Lyons (Technical Director) MAN, and BEYOND THE FRINGE. Forays This production marks Anthony’s to other theatres include: BAD DATES, fourth year as Technical Director for CHAPS!, 2 PIANOS 4 HANDS, and GUYS Renaissance Theaterworks. In all, he ON ICE at the Milwaukee Rep; EARS ON A has worked in various capacities on BEATLE, ROUGH CROSSING and THE REAL eighteen Renaissance productions. THING at Next Act; and various shows at Past credits include: light board operathe Yale Rep, Manhattan Punch Line, The tor for IMAGINING BRAD and TALKING Station, The Hangar, and the Lake George WITH; Master electrician for SYRINGA Opera Festival. Judy is also a freelance TREE (remount), SYNCOPATION, and editor and writer. She is a graduate of the FULL GALLOP (second mounting); Yale School of Drama and the mother of More recent work has been in scenery two amazing daughters. construction on all productions from SYNCOPATION to the present. Anthony 6 Renaissance Theaterworks
Alfred Uhry’s Pulitzer Prize-winning classic
October 13-30 Directed by C. Michael Wright Featuring Ruth Schudson, Michael A.Torrey & Jonathan West Sponsored by John E. Holland
HEROES by Tom Stoppard Adapted from Gerald Sibleyras’ Le Vent des Peupliers
Nov. 23 - Dec. 18 Directed by C. Michael Wright Featuring Richard Halverson, Dan Mooney & Robert Spencer Sponsored by John E. Holland & Konrad Kuchenbach
Broadway Theatre Center | 158 N. Broadway | Milwaukee 414.291.7800 | milwaukeechambertheatre.com
B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) Suzan Fete (Co-Artistic Director) Suzan co-founded Renaissance Theaterworks (RTW) in 1993. She is a past president of the Board and currently serves as Co-Artistic Director. Suzan has over 20 years experience as an actor, director, and producer in professional theater. Past directing projects for RTW include TOPDOG/UNDERDOG, THE SHAPE OF THINGS, SPINNING INTO BUTTER, ELEEMOSYNARY, DAYTRIPS, A DIFFERENT MOON, FAT PIG, BLACKBIRD and REASONS TO BE PRETTY. This January, Suzan will direct RTW’s production of NEAT by Charlayne Woodard. Suzan lives in Wauwatosa with her husband Jeff and son Matthew. Marie Kohler (Co-Artistic Director and Playwright-inResidence) Marie wears many hats for Renaissance Theaterworks. A CoFounder of the company, she is also a Co-Artistic Director and its Playwright-in-Residence. Born and raised in Wisconsin, Marie holds a BA with honors from Harvard University and an MA from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Marie’s lifelong passion and enthusiasm for the theater help shape the artistic vision of Renaissance Theaterworks. As playwright, she has written five well-received plays, four of which were written for and produced by Renaissance Theaterworks: COUNTING DAYS, MIDNIGHT AND MOLL FLANDERS, BOSWELL’S DREAMS and most recently, THE DIG in 2009. Marie is proud to have been named “Artist of the Year” by the Milwaukee Arts’ Board in 2005. To learn more about Marie and her plays, visit http://mariekohler.com.
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Julie Swenson (Producing Director) Julie became Renaissance’s Producing Director in 2001 having served on the Board of Directors since 1997. She received a BA in theatre from Illinois Wesleyan University in Bloomington, IL. She became a proud member of the Actors’ Equity Association in 1986 while working in New York City. Julie has been on the board of the Village of Nashotah since 1998. She is also the Spokesperson for Water Doctors and the host of New Home Building Today. Sarah Kriger Hwang (Marketing Director) Sarah has been Renaissance Theaterworks’ Marketing Director since 2003. Past theater marketing experience includes the role of Marketing Director for The Skylight and Court Theater (Chicago). She also worked for four years in consumer marketing research at C&R Research in Chicago. Sarah holds a Master’s degree in Arts Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She is grateful to have a supportive family that encourages her to do what she loves. Lisa Rasmussen (Development Director) started as Renaissance Theaterworks’ Development Director with excitement in the summer of 2008. Recent experience includes stage management for ComedySportz-Milwaukee and more than five years in marketing. Lisa received her BA in Theater and Psychology from Cardinal Stritch University in 2003. She loves living in Bay View with husband Jake and daughter Anna.
GREEN ROOM GROUP - NEW LEVELS AND BENEFITS !!!! When our individual donors contribute $1,000 or more annually, they become members of this fun, exclusive group. Yes, it takes some “green stuff” to join, but the Green Room is the place to be. Historically, the Green Room was where the actors waited before going on to perform, the insider’s lounge, if you will - simply a room painted green. The RTW Green Room is a metaphorical rather than a literal place, made “green” by its members’ pledges of support, but still the insider’s place to be. As a Green Room Group member you can make a huge difference in the success of RTW by enabling us to hire the finest actors and directors who bring us extraordinary, sold-out performances. There are more benefits to Green Room Group membership including special invitations to exclusive events. If you appreciate the work we do and want to become a part of it, now is the time to be a major contributor. Levels of membership: Turquoise $1,000 •Invitations to 1–2 unique, exclusive events per season where you will enjoy rare insight into the plays we produce and access to playwrights, directors, artistic directors, actors or other luminaries • New this year! A voucher for 2 complimentary drinks (wine, beer or soda) at the lobby bar or upstairs in the Skylight Bar and Bistro
Current Turquoise Donors: ANONYMOUS Anne Booth & Charles Trainer Elisabeth Townsend Bridge & Flint Bridge F. Colin & Paula Cabot Nancy & Jon Christiansen Gabrielle Davidson & Rob Lyon Suzan & Jeff Fete Marie Christine & Stephen Fox
Patti Keating Kahn & Chuck Kahn Julilly Kohler Marie Kohler & Brian Mani Pam Kriger Nancy & Arthur Laskin Anne & Ormond MacDougald Jane & Paul Mandel Barbara Manger & Bill Lynch Sally & Robb Marks Theresa & Robert Muselman
Judy Perkins & Dave Keen Gwen & Jim Plunkett Ildy & Skip Poliner Betty & Lawrence Rupp Jennifer Rupp & Dick Chudnow Lois Smith Judy & Dan Steininger Nicole & L. William Teweles Lynde Uihlein Bettie Zillman Judy Zwirlein
Peridot $1,500 •The Turquoise level benefits (above) •New this year! 3 free parking passes (based on availability) for the closest lots, for your use throughout the season Current Peridot Donors: Laura & Mike Arnow, Sue & Tim Frautschi, Sue & Robert Lueger
Renaissance Theaterworks 9
10 Renaissance Theaterworks
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GR EEN ROOM GROUP (cont.) Jade $2,000 •The Turquoise level benefits (above) •The Peridot level benefits (above) •New this year! 2 complimentary tickets to see a show by Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, our friends and neighbors Current Jade Donors: Jill Heavenrich, Ruth De Young Kohler, Marianne & Sheldon Lubar, Sophia Angela Topetzes Strelka & Tom Strelka, Julia & David Uihlein
Emerald $4,000 •The Turquoise level benefits (above) •The Peridot level benefits (above) •The Jade level benefits (above) •New this year! A 1-night sponsorship dedicated to you, a loved one or a business of your choice (think of a special birthday, anniversary or other milestone that you could acknowledge in a special way!)
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DONORS Renaissance Theaterworks gratefully acknowledges the following individuals and organizations for their generous support. Donations listed were received between July 1, 2010 and September 15, 2011. Those who are bolded chose to BE BOLD in our costume campaign by giving a new gift of $100 or increasing their past gift by at least 10%. If you’d like to BE BOLD, look for our annual costume campaign brochure in your mailbox next month. Thank you! $5,000.00 & above ANONYMOUS (3) Robert W. Baird & Co. Foundation Brewers Community Foundation The Brico Fund CAMPAC City of Milwaukee Arts Board Greater Milwaukee Foundation The Harley-Davidson Foundation Jane Bradley Pettit Foundation M&I Bank Nonprofit Management Fund 12 Renaissance Theaterworks
Sempercor Foundation The Richard & Ethel Herzfeld Foundation Time Warner Cable United Performing Arts Fund Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek, S.C. Wisconsin Arts Board $1,000.00 - $4,999.00 ANONYMOUS Laura & Mike Arnow Anne Booth & Charles Trainer Elisabeth Townsend Bridge & Flint Bridge Nancy & Jon Christiansen
Gabrielle Davidson & Rob Lyon Suzan & Jeff Fete Susan & Tim Frautschi Jill Heavenrich Patti Keating Kahn & Chuck Kahn Julilly Kohler Marie Kohler & Brian Mani Ruth De Young Kohler Pam Kriger Nancy & Arthur Laskin Marianne & Sheldon Lubar Sue & Bob Lueger Jane & Paul Mandel Barbara Manger & Bill Lynch
DONORS (cont.) Sally & Robb Marks Theresa & Robert Muselman Northwestern Mutual Foundation Judy Perkins & Dave Keen Gwen & Jim Plunkett Ildy & Skip Poliner Betty & Lawrence Rupp Jennifer Rupp & Dick Chudnow Lois Smith Judy & Dan Steininger Nicole & L. William Teweles Sophia Angela Topetzes Strelka & Tom Strelka David & Julia Uihlein Charitable Foundation Bettie Zillman Judy Zwirlein $500.00-$999.00 Donna & Donald Baumgartner Lisa Berman & Larry Dalton Jean & Jeff Bernstein Diane & David Buck Shel & Danni Gendelman Sandra Hays & Walt Kelly Mary & Mark Hollister Senator Herbert H. Kohl The Lubar Family Foundation, Inc. Joni L. & Joseph McDevitt Paula Penebaker Mary Ritchie & Tom Cunningham Weyco Group Charitable Trust Joan C. Wiegand Barbara L. Ulichny Wisconsin Energy Foundation $200.00 - $499.00 ANONYMOUS Kathleen & Tom Alpren Fran Bauer
Bonnie Birk & Dave Helling Jill & Frits Broekhuizen Patricia & Lewis Chamoy Karen & Richard Christenson Anne Clausen Sue & Russ Darrow Polly & Giles Daeger Barbara & Gordon Davidson d g marketing Carol Z. Dolphin Lin & Dwight Ellis Mary & Matthew Flynn Judy & Bill Franke in honor of Jennifer Rupp Maggi & David Gordon Patricia & Jerry Groth Marlene & Allan Gustafson Judy Guten in honor of Pam Kriger Lisa & Mick Hatch Maia Ihlenfeldt Mr. J. Michael Kohler, Jr. Nancy & John E. Larson Melissa Legg & Rick Reeves Laura Lindner Jan & Vince Martin Lynne & Neal Miller Christine Radiske & Herbert Quigley Bibi & Greg Rosner Tracy & Jay Rothman Lynn & Paul Rix Susan & Michael Schall Carol & Kevin Schuele Jan Serr & John Shannon Janine & Bruce Smith Barbara & Louis Stippich Vieux Et Nouveau James Westphal Michael Wright & Ray Jivoff $100.00 - $199.00 ANONYMOUS (4) Cecilia Abrams George Affeldt Diane Andersen Marilyn M. Auer
Nancy Balcer Gail Bast Cheryl & Gary Bautch Natalie Beckwith Michael Broh Jan & Dan Brophey Mary Buerger Anne Marie & Michael Bula Sharon & Richard Canter Doris Carroll Jane & Stephen Chernof Mary & James Connelly Deborah & Dennis Conta Tessa Coons & Jeff Martinka Donald A. Cress Eileen & Larry Dean Mary Jo & Tom Dempsey James & Brenda DeVita Judges Jean & John DiMotto Kathleen Donius & Paul Kosidowski Penny Egan Jason Fassl Barbara & William Fernholz Robert Ferriday III Jay Findling David Flores David Frank Pat Gahl Katie Gingrass Lois & Richard Goldberg Peter D. Goldberg Idy & Bill Goodman Peggy Goodman Karen & Tom Guszkowski Susan & Dan Haislmaier Jami & Joe Hanreddy Dolores Hayssen Elaine & Ken Herro Jan & Jim Hirsch Robin & Hugh Hoffman Candace Hoffmann & David Gaura Sarah & Milt Hwang Angela & George Jacobi Renaissance Theaterworks 13
DONORS (cont.) Bett Jacquart Mary Kamps Maureen E. Kania Anastasia Katinas Maureen & Daniel Konkol Marlene & Marv Lauwasser Beverly Joan Lindberg Sara & Brian Lipman LaDon Love Susie & Rick Mandel Carol & Rob Manegold Chris McAuliffe Elaine McDermott Sally Merrell & Ely Leichtling in memory of Herb Heavenrich Martine Meyer Sara & Howard Miller Lucia & Jack Murtaugh Sharon Nicholas Kurt Ollmann & Bill Lavonis Claire Pfleger Toby Recht in honor of Pam Kriger Karyn & David Roelke Joan Christopherson Schmidt Billi Dawn & Christopher Schoggen Nancy & Tim Selby Jocelyn Servick & Gary Steinhafel Marsha Sehler Carol Skornicka Diane Slomowitz Gilbert Southwell III Anne Sprecher Linda F. Stephenson Paula & Vance Strother Carol & Mike Tarnoff Sally Tolan in honor of Fran Bauer Fay K. Topetzes Sheryl Van Haren Mary M. Wegener Caroline & Michael Weil Carolyn White-Travanti & Leon Travanti Dawn & John Wittak 14 Renaissance Theaterworks
$50.00 - $99.00 Cindy Angelos Elaine & William Appel in honor of Pam Kriger Joyce & Steven Appel in honor of Pam Kriger Michele Askren Fred Berman Holly Blomquist Julie & William Bonnell Mary Frances Bullamore Caterina’s Ristorante-The Schiller and Ingrilli families Shirley Conlon & Jess Brownell Pat & Phil Crump Deborah & Michael Duncan Nancy Filsinger Carol & Milt Flieller Drs. Margo & James Frey Susan & Bob Friebert Georgia & Ron Glaser Barbara & Donald Goldberg in honor of Jennifer Rupp Joshua Goldberg in honor of Jennifer Rupp Susan & Michael Goldstone Judy Gordon in honor of Pam Kriger Stephanie & Laurence Govin Matzat Jim Gramling Sharon Grant Kathy Grogan Rachel & Dennis Hafemann Cynthia & Richard Hayes Kathy & John Hickey Cynthia Hiteman Dolores & Nate Holman Josephine Honzik Julia Ihlenfeldt Dr. Sydney & Mrs. Grace Johnson Shelly Jones Robert Kloes Themis Kourakis Judy & Norman Lasca
Bonnie Lewis in honor of Pam Kriger Karen Leyer Lynn Lucius & Richard Taylor Mary Ellen Lukaszewicz Lois Malawsky & Dr. Jay Larkey Kate Marrs Judith Martel Donna & Jerry Martynski Evelyn Matten Rita McDonald Donna & Tony Meyer Kate & Ken Muth Jane Nicholson & Nancy Shea Lynn Novotnak & Dennis Jacobsen Christine & James O’Brien Jane O’Connell Athena Pagedas Elaine & Thomas Pagedas Julie Pandl Kathryn Plumb Mary Pollock Gloria Ramos Pat Rieselbach Linda Roethlisberger & Dennis Hennessy Russell Rossetto Judy Schraiber in honor of Jill Heavenrich Judith & Bob Scott Beth & Ron Shapiro Amalia Schoone Minna & Mark Smith Linda & Tom Southworth Shirley Spelt Sarah & Alex Starrett Donna & Paul Tanzer Gina & John Taucher Lisa Teel Harry Topetzes Bonnie & Thomas Wiesmueller Howard & Connie Zemlicka Judy Zimmerlee
DONORS $25.00 - $49.00 ANONYMOUS (5) Patricia Anderson F. Tessa & Richard Bartels Carla & Burton Bartlett Margaret MacLeod Brahm & John W. Brahm Susan Brahm Elyse & BJ Cohn Mary Colby & Mark Brohan Patricia Defrain Barbara Dittl Sarah J. Ford & Randall Klumb Pamela Frautschi & Richard Ippolito Thomas Gobel Daniel Goldberg in honor of Jennifer Rupp Zachary Goldberg in honor of Jennifer Rupp Reesa & Irv Gottschalk Mary & Stan Harrison Joseph Hausch Adrienne Hirsch Dr. Lawrence & Joyzele Howards Sarajane Kennedy
Maureen Kilmurry Mary S. Knudten Gary Koppelberger Marilyn Kupka Justine Leonard Eva & Elliot Lipchik Jennifer Mattes Julie S. McHale Katharine O’Connor Susan Nivin Oster Janet & Randy Peterson Lisa & Jacob Rasmussen Elaine Reis Eric Ruth Alexis & Vadim Ruzell Susan & Howard Schoenfeld Evelyn & Robert Slater Katherine M. Smith Jamie & Brian Thorson Maggie Topitzes Julie & Ronald Valona Yvonne & Mark Wagner Jenny Wanasek Alyce & Russell Weiss Ann & Gerald Wesolowski Laura & Jay Wigdale Lisa Wright & Mark Ulrich Thalia & Andrew Yiannakos
Under $25.00 ANONYMOUS Cindy Benning Phyllis & Jordan Fink Rosie Frydman Pam & Stephen Geimer Kit & Rick Giery Avery Goodrich Goodsearch Mary Anne Gross Rita Hale Hollis Heavenrich-Jones & Michael Jones Rita Kacala Richard Kilker, Jr. Lisa Kleinschmidt Elaine Nelles Marva Pattillo Tim Riemer Darlene Roberts & Catherine G. Miller Claudette Robinson Lynn Shoemaker Donald Siegel Stanley Spence
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IN-KIND DONORS These donors have shared their services and/or goods in support of our non-profit between July 1, 2010 and September 15, 2011. If you notice an error, we apologize in advance. Please contact Lisa Rasmussen, Development Director at 414-273-0800 x202 or LRasmussen@r-t-w.com. Thanks! 2-Story Creative A Trio Jewelry Design Studio Alterra American Folklore Theatre Laura Arnow Fran Bauer Bear Creek Massage Therapy Jean & Jeff Bernstein Birch Creek Music Performance Center Blush Beauty, Inc Mary Bock Boutique Vieux Et Nouveau Elisabeth Townsend Bridge Diane & David Buck Pam Butz Erdman Care-a-Lotta Carenza color.cutting. experience Club Charlies Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery Specialists Cynthia Musickant Design Daeger Design Polly & Giles Daeger Dan McDonough Home Improvements & Remodeling Danceworks Kat Danielsen Gabrielle Davidson Dermond Peterson Design DigiCOPY Discovery World Kathleen Dohearty Door Shakespeare Peggy Dunigan Elements Therapeutic Massage 16 Renaissance Theaterworks
Elkhart Lake’s Road America Embelezar First Stage Children’s Theatre Fox Sports Sue & Tim Frautschi Freedom Physical Therapy Services, S.C. Fremantle Media The French Country Inn of Ephraim Friends at Villa Terrace The General Store German Fest Golfsmith Goodyear Chiropractic Laura Gordon Gordon Lodge Mark David Gray Great Lakes Distillery Green Bay Packers Harley-Davidson Museum Harley’s For Men Sandra Hays Jill Heavenrich John Hickey The Hog Howard Mandel Photography Kat Hustedde The Irish Pub Julie Schnoll Designs Patti Keating Kahn Marie Kohler & Brian Mani The Lemon Tree Bonnie Lewis Gayelin Littell Sue Lueger luludesigns - Pamela Norris Jane & Paul Mandel Andrea & Philip Mann Milwaukee Art Museum Milwaukee Boat Line
Milwaukee Chamber Theatre Milwaukee Children’s Choir Milwaukee County Parks Milwaukee Public Museum Milwaukee World Festival Milwaukee Yacht Club and Skipper Bud’s Molloy’s Congresswoman Gwen Moore Neimanns Neroli Salon Next Act Theatre Northern Trust Palms Bistro & Bar Julie Pandl Tess & George Papageorge Past Basket Cissy Peltz Paula Penebaker Peninsula Players Theatre Polish Center of Wisconsin Deneine Powell Present Music Real Men Crochet Renaissance Theaterworks Board Members Robert Laurence Hair Studio Rubin’s Furniture Jennifer Rupp & Dick Chudnow Ann & Will Schmid Sheridan’s Skylight Opera Theatre Lois Smith SpinGroup Sprecher Brewing Co. Inc.
IN - KIND DONORS (cont.) Laurie Stellick & John Topetzes Judith Steininger Ten Chimneys Third Avenue Playhouse Time Warner Cable Fay Topetzes
Sophia Angela Topetzes Strelka & Tom Strelka Traveling Dance Shoes Tres Chic Trio Restaurant David & Julia Uihlein Uihlein/Wilson Architects
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Barb Ulichny Usinger Famous Sausage Vintage Art Creations Vita Fitness and Physical Therapy Della Wells
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R E N A I S S A N C E T H E AT E R WO R K S S TA F F Co-Artistic Directors.................................................................Suzan Fete, Marie Kohler, Jennifer Rupp Producing Director.....................................................................................................................Julie Swenson Marketing Director......................................................................................................... Sarah Kriger Hwang Development Director............................................................................................................Lisa Rasmussen Playwright in Residence...............................................................................................................Marie Kohler Fabulous Intern...................................................................................................................... Mallory Metoxen Fabulous Digital Marketing Intern............................................................................................. Trevor Rees
G O R G O N S S TA F F Director.................................................................................................................................................Drew Brhel Stage Manager................................................................................................................................Judy Martel* Scenic Design.............................................................................................................................Joseph A. Brhel Costume Design......................................................................................................................Corey Lubowich Lighting Design....................................................................................................................... Holly Blomquist Sound Design.................................................................................................................................... Paul Hurley Props Design.....................................................................................................................................Dana Fralick Fight Choreographer............................................................................................................... James Fletcher Technical Director..................................................................................................................... Anthony Lyons Scenery Construction................................................................................. Timothy Linn, Anthony Lyons, Philip Cruise-Warren Scenic Painting.......................................................................................................................Andrea Toussaint Deck Chief......................................................................................................................................... Tanya Dhein Backstage/Wardrobe...................................................................................................................Darcy Devens Backstage........................................................................................................................................Kat Danielsen Master Electrician...................................................................................................................... Ryan Bertelson House Manager(s)......................................................................................Libby Amato, Mallory Metoxen *Member of Actors’ Equity Association
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G E N E R A L I N F O R M AT I O N The mission of Renaissance Theaterworks is to create moving theatre that awakens our recognition of what it is to be human – from classics to world premieres – with attention to roles for women onstage and off. Renaissance Theaterworks was founded in 1993 by Suzan Fete, Marie Kohler, Raeleen McMillion, Jennifer Rupp and Michelle Traband. RENAISSANCE THEATERWORKS BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2011-12 Executive Committee President: Judith Zwirlein Vice President: Gabrielle Davidson Treasurer: Laura Arnow Secretary: Deneine Powell Jean Bernstein Fran Bauer Elisabeth Townsend Bridge Kathleen Dohearty Sue Frautschi Sandra Hays Jill Heavenrich Cecilia Abrams Kathy Andreadis Tyne Daly Barbara Felix Mary and Matt Flynn Danni Gendelman Carmen Haberman Julilly Kohler Pam Kriger Eric Lind
Directors
John Hickey Patti Keating-Kahn Jane Mandel Paula Penebaker Lois Smith Judith Steininger Sophia Angela Topetzes Strelka
Renaissance Roundtable Anne Cabot MacDougald Mary McCann Raeleen McMillion Michael Murphy Betty Quadracci Norma Saldivar David Sengkhammee Kathleen Tolan Lynde Uihlein Barbara Ulichny
SPECIAL THANKS Temple of Holiness – Church of Deliverance, Burke Candy & Ingredients, SpinGroup, 2-Story Creative, Lana McKinnon Season Supporters
Affiliations Renaissance Theaterworks is a member of Theatre Communications Group, the national service organization of non-profit professional theaters, and of Theatre Wisconsin, UPAF and The Historic Third Ward Association
About UPAF Each year, more than 30,000 individuals, corporations and foundations in greater Milwaukee annually support the UPAF annual campaign, making it one of the nation’s largest united arts funds. In addition to raising and allocation operating funds, UPAF is enhancing its value to the community, donors and performing arts by serving as a community wide resource for developing the excellence, reputation and impact of our performing arts. 20 Renaissance Theaterworks