Presents
In Artistic Collaboration with UPROOTED theatre
Written by Lynn Nottage Directed by Dennis F. Johnson Stage Manager...........................................................................................................Brandy Kline* Scenic Design.....................................................................................................Rick A. Rasmussen Lighting Design........................................................................................................... Jason Fassl** Costume Design.............................................................................................................Holly Payne Sound Design...................................................................................................Christopher J. Guse Properties Design..................................................................Jennifer Lyons and Anna Warren Dialect Coach................................................................................................. Michelle Lopez-Rios Production Sponsored by
Season Sponsored by
January 14 – February 6, 2011 The Studio Theatre 158 N. Broadway Milwaukee, WI World Premiere Production by The Second Stage Theatre, May 1995 Artistic Director, Carole Rothman Producing Director, Suzanne Schwartz Davidson with a grant form the Lila Wallace-Reader’s Digest Fund CRUMBS FROM THE TABLE OF JOY is presented by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc., New York
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CAST Ernestine Crump............................................................................................Tiffany Yvonne Cox Ermina Crump....................................................................................................Ashleigh LaThrop Godfrey Crump...................................................................................................Morocco Omari* Lily Ann Green............................................................................................................Marti Gobel* Gerte Schulte....................................................................................................Cassandra Bissell* *Member of Actors’ Equity Association **Member of United Scenic Artists
There will be one 10-minute intermission. D I R E C TO R ’ S N O T E S Dennis F. Johnson I am not sure that there are words to describe the mix of excitement, joy, and pride that I felt a year and a half ago when the ladies of Renaissance first approached us at UPROOTED about entering into an artistic collaboration to present CRUMBS FROM THE TABLE OF JOY. They were giving us the opportunity to work on a beautiful script, which spoke so well to our mission, in a manner that we could not financially swing at this point in our existence. The collaboration also gave us the opportunity to return to a company whose production of THE PERSIANS helped solidify the bond between Marti, Travis, and myself - - a company whose members, a few months after that show, allowed the four of us** to pick their brains and who helped guide us as we were forming UPROOTED. I remember Suzan saying something to the effect of, “If there’s something you’re not sure of, ask. What you’re doing is hard. If we made the mistake when we started, learn from it. There’s no point in you making the same mistake if you don’t need to.” From the beginning, the ladies at Renaissance have served as mentors to UPROOTED, so you can imagine how honored I felt to be trusted enough to direct one of the shows in their season. After several months of auditions, meetings, and re-reading the play, we had assembled a stellar cast and a dream team of designers and production crew. Throughout all of the planning, however, I had missed one very important thing: UPROOTED is Ernestine Crump. Ms. Nottage has given us a play so rich in themes that it would take me much longer than this page to give my thoughts on all of them and, to be honest, if I tried I would do you the disservice of not allowing you to discover them for yourselves, but the one I will mention is this: it is a coming of age play. Ernestine, her family, and the country as a whole are coming of age during the play. About a week into rehearsal, it hit me that UPROOTED, too, had come of age since that first collaboration meeting so many months prior. In the time that has passed between then and now we have transformed from four young artists with a vision to a theatre company. In that time we went from having performed our first show, BEAUTY’S DAUGHTER, in the summer of 2008, to having an entire season under our belts with another planned, announced, cast, and financed. We were no longer a startup troupe with a great show, which may or may not have been a lucky fluke. Audiences now saw that we were a theatre company that they could depend on to consistently produce high caliber work. We had grown up and come into our own. Just as in any coming of age story, there were obstacles and times when life threw us curve balls, but like other heroes in these stories, we overcame and were made stronger by those trials. Like Ernestine, UPROOTED is on a journey, and I am truly grateful that the ladies of Renaissance, others who have guided us, and you are on that journey with us. **UPROOTED theatre Co-Founders Tiffany Yvonne Cox, Marti Gobel, Dennis F. Johnson and Travis Knight Renaissance Theaterworks 3
PROGR A M NOTES Father Divine In 1932, a charismatic preacher calling himself Father Divine— and proclaiming himself an incarnation of God—set up shop in Harlem, where he founded the International Peace Mission Movement. In 1942 the Movement was relocated to Philadelphia, PA. In the midst of the Depression, the International Peace Mission drew followers with its promises to release them from the burdens of material possessions and want. Believers who resided in a Heaven—the name Divine gave to his communal homes and communities-- surrendered all of their belongings and worked without pay; in exchange, Father Divine provided food and shelter. Believers who did not live in any of the Heavens were encouraged to spend money only on essential needs, and then yield their remaining income and assets to the Peace Mission. Divine emphasized the importance of this gesture by preaching, “Lay not up treasures on earth where moth and thief and mouse break in and steal, but lay it up in Heaven with your Father.” He would then urge, “He who would enter into the Kingdom of God must have nothing he can call his own.” Followers who obeyed this charge and resigned property to Divine were called “Angels” and were awarded new names like Ruth Rachel, Frank Incense and Blessed Charity. Perhaps the Peace Mission’s most attractive feature was its promotion of Civil Rights. As early as 1936, Divine unveiled a comprehensive plan for equal rights—the “Righteousness Government Platform”—and proposed a Federal Anti-Lynching Bill. In 1946, he married Edna Rose Ritchings, a white Canadian who assumed the title Mother Divine. For his followers, the marriage of Divine and Ritchings represented a true portrait of racial equality. In the 1950’s as his health declined, Divine continued to petition for civil rights. He advocated reparations to be paid to the descendants of slaves. He also argued in favor of integrated neighborhoods. However, he did not participate in the burgeoning Civil Rights Movement because of his poor health. On September 10, 1965, Father Divine died of natural causes at his Woodmont estate in Gladwyne, PA. His widow, Mother Divine and remaining followers insist his spirit is still alive and always refer to Father Divine in the present tense. Believers keep the furnishings of Father Divine’s personal rooms at Woodmont just as they were as a shrine to his life. Mrs. Divine became spiritual leader of the movement. In 1972 she fought an attempt by cult leader Jim Jones to take over the movement’s dwindling devotees. Jones based some of his doctrines on the International Peace Movement and claimed to be the reincarnation of Father Divine.
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BIOGR APHIES Lynn Nottage (Playwright) Lynn Nottage’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play RUINED has also received an OBIE, the Lucille Lortel Award, New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award, Drama Desk Award, and Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Play (Manhattan Theatre Club, Goodman Theatre). Other plays include INTIMATE APPAREL (New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award for Best Play; Roundabout Theatre), CENTERSTAGE (South Coast Repertory); FABULATION, OR THE REEDUCATION OF UNDINE (OBIE Award; Playwrights Horizons, London’s Tricycle Theatre); CRUMBS FROM THE TABLE OF JOY; LAS MENINAS; MUD, RIVER, STONE; POR’KNOCKERS and POOF! Nottage is the recipient of numerous awards, including the 2007 MacArthur Foundation “Genius Grant,” the National Black Theatre Festival’s August Wilson Playwriting Award, the 2004 PEN/Laura Pels Award for Drama, the 2005 Guggenheim Grant for Playwriting, as well as fellowships from the Lucille Lortel Foundation, Manhattan Theatre Club, New Dramatists and New York Foundation for the Arts. She is a member of The Dramatists Guild, an alumna of New Dramatists and a graduate of Brown University and the Yale School of Drama, where she is a visiting lecturer. www.lynnnottage.net Dennis F. Johnson (Director) Dennis is overjoyed to be returning to Renaissance Theaterworks where he previously assistant directed, under Angela Iannone, HIPPOLYTUS and THE PERSIANS.
He has also had the pleasure of assistant directing at Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, First Stage Children’s Theater and most recently at American Players Theatre for David Frank’s MAJOR BARBARA. Dennis is also co-founder and Artistic Director of UPROOTED theatre. Later this season Dennis will be directing UPROOTED’s staged reading of I HAVE BEFORE ME A REMARKABLE DOCUMENT GIVEN TO ME BY A YOUNG LADY FROM RWANDA at the Hamilton Fine Arts Center in February and Neil Haven’s PINK CHAMPAGNE at the Tenth Street Theatre in May. Cast
Cassandra Bissell (Gerte) Cassandra was seen most recently at Milwaukee Repertory Theater in MY NAME IS ASHER LEV. She is based out of Chicago where her credits include work with Chicago Shakespeare Theater (THE TEMPEST, ROMEO AND JULIET, MACBETH, RICHARD II, KING JOHN), Court Theater (ARCADIA, HAMLET), Steppenwolf Theatre Co. (THE BERLIN CIRCLE), Victory Gardens (MEMORY HOUSE), Next Theatre Co. (IN THE BLOOD, MEASURE FOR MEASURE), Rivendell Theatre Ensemble (MARY’S WEDDING - Jeff nomination, Best Actress in a Principal Role), and Shakespeare on the Green (OTHELLO.) She has performed five seasons at Peninsula Players in Door County, Wisconsin (PROOF, DOUBT, RED HERRING, THE LADY’S NOT FOR BURNING, A MAN FOR ALL SEASONS, AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS, among others.) Regional credits include work with Actor’s Theatre of Louisville (MEMORY HOUSE) and Cleveland Playhouse (PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, NOISES OFF.)
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B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) Tiffany Yvonne Cox (Ernestine) Tiffany is a Trinidadian military brat, having grown up throughout the USA. She continued her nomadic lifestyle working at various theatres in the country. Some of her favorite roles include Addaperle (THE WIZ - First Stage Children’s Theatre), Angela (PARADE - CPCC Summer Theatre), Dionne (HAIR - Tibbits Opera House), Sonia (GODSPELL - PCPA), and the following understudy roles at The Milwaukee Repertory Theatre: Eurydice (EURYDICE), Della (I JUST STOPPED BY TO SEE THE MAN), Millie (TROUBLE IN MIND). Now based in Chicago, she has worked with The Chicago Children’s Theatre (THE ONE HUNDRED DRESSES - u/s Maddie), MPAACT Theatre (TEN SQUARE - u/s Talia), Provision Theatre (GODSPELL - Sonia), Griffin Theatre (LETTERS HOME - Sharon Allen), and Goodman Theatre reading (FOR HER AS A PIANO - Marvin). Tiffany received a BFA in Musical Theater with minors in Spanish and Dance from Catawba College and completed acting internships at PCPA Theaterfest and The Milwaukee Rep. She is a co-founder of UPROOTED and so proud of the work everyone has put forth for us to be where we are today. When not on stage she enjoys dancing to Caribbean music, hosting gatherings, cooking, and experiencing nature. Marti Gobel (Lily) Upon receipt of a BA degree in Performance Theatre (Philosophy, Minor) from the University of WisconsinWhitewater in 2008, Marti began a career as a professional actor in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Martil has had the honor of working with Milwaukee Shakespeare (HENRY IV, 2), Milwaukee Chamber Theatre (WELL, AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS, BROKEN AND ENTERED), Renaissance Theaterworks (THE PERSIANS), FirstStage Children’s Theatre (THE NEVERENDINGSTORY), The Milwaukee Repertory Theatre (TROUBLE IN MIND, BLITHE SPIRIT, YANKEE TAVERN), Forward Theatre (IN THE NEXT ROOM) and UPROOTED Theatre (BEAUTY’S DAUGHTER, A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE, PINK CHAMPAGNE) and an ongoing
role as the Civil Rights suffragist, Ida B. Wells for the Kenosha Civil War Museum in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Marti had the extreme pleasure of working with Aaron Greer on the short film Spare Change as well as the new series Gettin’ Grown in 2010. To date, Marti most challenging role has been as the Managing Director for UPROOTED theatre. The new AfricanAmerican Theatre Company, of which Marti is a co-founder, seeks to be a representation for the many voices found within the African -American community. CRUMBS FROM THE TABLE OF JOY is the perfect vehicle for some of these voices to be heard. She hopes you enjoy the show. Ashleigh LaThrop (Ermina) Ashleigh has returned to Wisconsin after spending the summer at American Players Theatre. She is happy to be collaborating with Renaissance Theaterworks and UPROOTED theatre for the first time. Ashleigh is a graduate of the acting program at the University of Illinois and of the School at Steppenwolf. University roles include Ophelia in HAMLET, Seada in NECESSARY TARGETS and Juliette in I HAVE BEFORE ME A REMARKABLE DOCUMENT GIVEN TO ME BY A YOUNG LADY FROM RWANDA. A native of Chicago, Ashleigh has worked with such reputable theatre companies as Dog and Pony, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre and Theatre Seven of Chicago. Morocco Omari (Godfrey) Morocco is pleased to make his Milwaukee theatre debut with this talented cast and crew. Theatre: SPACE and INTIMATE APPAREL at Steppenwolf, BLUES FOR AN ALABAMA SKY and THE BALLAD OF EMMIT TILL at Goodman Theatre, TRUST and FEDRA:THE QUEEN OF HAITI at Lookingglass Theatre, ELMINA’S KITCHEN at Congo Square, BLUES FOR AN ALABAMA SKY at Alabama Shakespeare Festival, KNOCK ME A KISS at New Federal Theatre, TAKE ME OUT at Geffen Playhouse, RADIO GOLF at Pittsburgh Public, KING HEDLEY II at Reilly Theatre, and GEM OF THE OCEAN at Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati. Film: Half Past Dead 2, Kubuku Rides, Andre Royo’s Big Scene, MoRenaissance Theaterworks 7
B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) mentum, and Shakedown. T.V.: N.C.I.S., 24, Prison Break, Judging Amy, The Beast, Frasier, and Angel; recurring roles on Joan of Arcadia, L.A. Dragnet and Girlfriends. In addition, Mr. Omari is the Executive Producer and writer of the film, The Male Groupie. Directing credits include the films: (Mis) Leading Man and Good Intentions. Jason Fassl (Lighting Design) This production marks Jason’s lucky thirteenth lighting design for the Renaissance Theaterworks Ladies, starting with TROJAN WOMEN and including favorites SKIN TIGHT, BURN THIS and THE WOMAN IN BLACK. Other designs this season include productions for The Milwaukee Repertory Theatre, The Milwaukee Ballet, Peninsula Players, Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, Skylight Opera Theatre, First Stage Children’s Theatre (artistic associate), Forward Theatre Company, YoungBlood Theatre Company, Children’s Theatre of Madison and The Fireside (resident designer). Jason toured the globe with The Magic of David Copperfield, the states with Susan Stroman’s revival of THE MUSIC MAN and the seas onboard two Royal Caribbean ships. In addition to his theatrical work, Jason has extensive experience lighting events for the corporate world. www.AntiShadows.com Christopher J. Guse (Sound Design) Chris most recently designed sound for HAYFEVER, A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM, OEDIPUS REX and ARMS AND THE MAN with the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee (UWM) and DUET FOR ONE, WELL, TALLEY’S FOLLY and MOONLIGHT AND MAGNOLIAS with Milwaukee Chamber Theatre. He also recently designed sound and composed music for the UWM’s productions
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of 1001, CAUCASIAN CHALK CIRCLE, SEVEN GUITARS, MR. MELANCHOLY, EINSTEIN’S DREAMS and FROM THESE GREEN HEIGHTS among many others. Apart from Assisting R.H. Graham on the Scenic Design for Milwaukee Ballet’s PETER PAN, not so recent scenic designs include the settings and projections for Milwaukee Chamber Theatre’s HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH and Milwaukee Shakespeare’s productions of AS YOU LIKE IT, A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM and OTHELLO. An Associate Professor at UWM, Chris coordinates the Live Digital Media Lab and instructs students in the areas of sound design/technology, stagecraft and technical direction. Brandy Kline (Stage Manager) Brandy is glad to join Renaissance Theaterworks for her fourth season as Stage Manager while also working as Production Manager/Company Manager for Milwaukee Chamber Theatre. Brandy has worked in various capacities of stage management, props and stage crew for Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, Bialystock & Bloom, Renaissance Theaterworks, Next Act Theatre, Skylight Opera Theatre, Milwaukee Shakespeare, Alverno College and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. After receiving a B.A. in Theatre from Lawrence University, she studied stage management and props at Milwaukee Repertory Theatre and spent a summer as production assistant at the Utah Shakespearean Festival. In her spare time she has worked at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Spoleto Festival USA. Michelle Lopez-Rios (Dialect Coach) Michelle is delighted to be working with both Renaissance Theaterworks and Uprooted for the first time. Coaching
B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) credits include DUET FOR ONE, THE SUM OF US, TALKING HEADS (Milwaukee Chamber Theatre) CABARET, RAGTIME (Jersey Productions), HONK!, BILLY BISHOP GOES TO WAR (Unity Theatre) and THE SPITFIRE GRILL (Stages Repertory Theatre). An Assistant Professor of Voice/ Speech, she has coached and directed various productions at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Michelle is a proud member of the Royal Mexican Players and featured coach on www.accenthelp. com. Gracias a Alvaro y Augosto. Anthony Lyons (Technical Director) This production marks Anthony’s fourth year as Technical Director for Renaissance Theaterworks. In all, he has worked in various capacities on 19 Renaissance productions. Past credits include: light board operator for IMAGINING BRAD and TALKING WITH; Master electrician for SYRINGA TREE (remount), SYNCOPATION, and FULL GALLOP (second mounting). More recent work has been in scenery construction on all productions from SYNCOPATION to the present. Anthony is also technical director for Wild Space Dance Company and Danceworks Performance Company. Anthony has worked for Skylight Opera Theatre, Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, and Bialystock & Bloom (R.I.P.). In a parallel universe, Anthony is a partner in a small custom carpentry firm. Jennifer Lyons (Properties Design) Jen is pleased to be working with Renaissance again. Jen has had the pleasure of partnering with Anna Warren to design props for THE SMELL OF THE KILL (Renaissance Theaterworks), MEMORY HOUSE (Renaissance Theaterworks) and JOE EGG (Milwaukee Chamber Theatre). She designed props for many a show for Bialystock and Bloom back in the day and continues to spend her days in the prop shop at The Skylight. Holly Payne (Costume Design) Holly is delighted to join Renaissance and its troupe of wonderful, interesting ladies for another production. She’s also quite lucky to be a part of such a lovely group of designers, technicians and actors. Currently the Costume Director at Milwaukee Repertory Theatre, she graduated with an M.F.A. in Costume Design and Technology from the University of Arkansas. She has designed at American Players Theatre, Milwaukee Renaissance Theaterworks 9
B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) Chamber Theatre, Florentine Opera, Skylight Opera, Milwaukee Shakespeare, Milwaukee Repertory Theatre, Delaware Stage Company, Professional Theatre Training Program at the University of Delaware, University of Tulsa and Theatre Squared in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Special thanks to Aaron for being a dear. Rick A. Rasmussen (Scenic Design) Rick currently lives in Seattle but loves coming back to do theater in Milwaukee. Rick is pleased to be working on his second show with Renaissance Theaterworks. Some of Rick’s most recent projects include HAIRSPRAY and RING OF FIRE for the Fireside Theatre, DAMES AT SEA at the Skylight Opera, DUET FOR ONE at Milwaukee Chamber Theatre and SEVEN STORIES and FOUR PLACES at Next Act Theatre. Rick is very excited to be involved with this great group of Milwaukee Artists on such an inspiring project. Anna Warren (Properties Design) Anna is a Props Crafts Artisan at Milwaukee Repertory Theater and, during the summers, Santa Fe Opera. She is pleased
to be returning to Renaissance with her propping partner Jen after past productions of MEMORY HOUSE and THE SMELL OF THE KILL. Anna’s local work includes propping productions for Milwaukee Chamber Theater ( A LESSON FROM ALOES) and Skylight Opera Theatre (THE TRAGEDY OF CARMEN). She lives in Milwaukee with her husband and two dogs. You can see more of her props work at www.fake-n-bake.blogspot.com Suzan Fete (Co-Artistic Director) Suzan co-founded Renaissance Theaterworks in 1993. She is also a past president of the Board. Suzan has over 20 years experience as an actor, director, and producer in professional theater. Most recently Suzan directed REASONS TO BE PRETTY for Renaissance Theaterworks this past fall. Past directing projects for Renaissance include BLACKBIRD, FAT PIG, TOPDOG/UNDERDOG, THE SHAPE OF THINGS, SPINNING INTO BUTTER, ELEEMOSYNARY, DAYTRIPS and A DIFFERENT MOON. Susan 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 Co-Founder 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 WisconsinMilwaukee. Marie’s lifelong passion and enthusiasm for the theater help shape the artistic vision of Renaissance Theaterworks. As playwright, she has written four well-received plays, three of which were written for and produced by Renaissance Theaterworks: COUNTING DAYS, MIDNIGHT AND MOLL FLANDERS and BOSWELL’S DREAMS. Renaissance produced her latest play, THE DIG, in January 2009. To learn more about Marie and her plays, visit
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B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) http://mariekohler.com.
4 and a Village of Nashotah Trustee.
Jennifer Rupp (Co-Artistic Director) Jennifer is a CoFounder and CoArtistic Director of Renaissance Theaterworks. As an actress, her credits include productions with Renaissance Theaterworks, Next Act Theatre, First Stage, Bialystock & Bloom, Boulevard Ensemble, Theatre Gigante, Madison Repertory Theatre and Children’s Theater of Madison. Jennifer is a co-creator of the RED PEPPER JELLY musicals, original shows written and performed by local Milwaukee artists and produced by Renaissance Theaterworks. Jennifer also works with her husband Dick Chudnow and her son Nick Chudnow as the Business Manager for ComedySportz Milwaukee.
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 Skylight Opera Theatre 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 loves her job and thanks her husband Milt, and son Ethan for their love and support.
Julie Swenson (Producing Director) This season marks Julie’s 10th as Producing Director but her association with Renaissance Theaterworks began in 1997 when she was cast in the play ZARA SPOOKS AND OTHER LURES. Julie recently performed for RTW as Nicky in THE SMELL OF THE KILL and with Milwaukee Chamber Theatre as Nina in BROOKLYN BOY. Julie is also the Host of New Home Building Today on WTMJ-
Lisa Rasmussen (Development Director) Lisa 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.
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THE GREEN ROOM GROUP (gif ts
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The Green Room Group is vital to the success of Renaissance Theaterworks. Each member makes annual cash gifts of $1,000 or more. Green Room Group members are invited to special behind-the-scenes events such as “Inside the Renaissance Theaterworks Actors’ Studio,” “Meet the Playwright,” and other insider sneak peeks. Join us in the Green Room! Emerald Donors (of $2,000 or more) Polly & Giles Daeger Ruth De Young Kohler Marianne & Sheldon Lubar Sophia Angela Topetzes Strelka & Tom Strelka Julia & David Uihlein Jade Donors (of $1,500 to $1,999) Laura & Mike Arnow Sue & Tim Frautschi Peridot Donors (of $1,250 - $1,499)
Turquoise Donors (of $1,000 - $1,249) Anonymous (2) Anne Booth & Charles Trainer Elisabeth Townsend Bridge & Flint Bridge F. Colin & Paula Cabot Nancy & Jon Christiansen Gabrielle Davidson & Rob Lyon Suzan & Jeff Fete Jill & Herbert Heavenrich Patti Keating Kahn & Chuck Kahn Julilly Kohler Marie Kohler & Brian Mani Pam Kriger Nancy & Arthur Laskin
Sue & Robert Lueger Jane & Paul Mandel Sally & Robb Marks Cindy H. Molloy Theresa & Robert Muselman Judy Perkins & Dave Keen Gwen & Jim Plunkett Ildy & Skip Poliner Betty & Lawrence Rupp Jennifer Rupp & Dick Chudnow Max Samson Lois Smith Judy & Dan Steininger Nicole & L. William Teweles Lynde Uihlein Bettie Zillman Judy Zwirlein
DONORS Renaissance Theaterworks gratefully acknowledges the following individuals and organizations for their generous support. Donations listed were received between December 15, 2009 and December 15, 2010. 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%. Thank you! $5,000.00 and above ANONYMOUS (3) Robert W. Baird & Co. Foundation Brewers Community Foundation The Brico Fund CAMPAC City of Milwaukee Arts Board Polly & Giles Daeger Greater Milwaukee Foundation The Harley-Davidson Foundation Jane Bradley Pettit Foundation Sempercor Foundation The Richard & Ethel Herzfeld Foundation Time Warner Cable UPAF Wisconsin Arts Board $1,000.00 - $4,999.00 ANONYMOUS (2) Laura & Mike Arnow Anne Booth & Charles Trainer Elisabeth Townsend Bridge & Flint Bridge Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin Foundation Nancy & Jon Christiansen Gabrielle Davidson & Rob Lyon 12 Renaissance Theaterworks
Suzan & Jeff Fete Sue & Tim Frautschi Jill & Herb Heavenrich Patti Keating Kahn & Chuck Kahn Julilly Kohler Marie Kohler & Brian Mani in memory of Hazel & Carl Leukaufe Ruth De Young Kohler Pam Kriger Nancy & Arthur Laskin Marianne & Sheldon Lubar Sue & Bob Lueger Jane & Paul Mandel Sally & Robb Marks Cindy H. Molloy 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 Angela Topetzes Strelka & Tom Strelka David & Julia Uihlein Charitable Foundation Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek Joan C. Wiegand
Bettie Zillman Judy Zwirlein $500.00-$999.00 Donna & Donald Baumgartner Lisa Berman & Larry Dalton Jean & Jeff Bernstein Diane & David Buck Linda Dindzans Penny Egan Pamela Frautschi & Richard Ippolito Danni & Shel Gendelman Sandra Hays & Walt Kelly Mary & Mark Hollister Senator Herbert H. Kohl Joni L. & Joseph McDevitt Mary Ritchie & Tom Cunningham Jan Serr & John Shannon Barbara L. Ulichny Weyco Group Charitable Trust $200.00 - $499.00 ANONYMOUS Isabel & Alfred Bader Fran Bauer Natalie Beckwith Bonnie Birk & Dave Helling Jacqueline Boynton Jill & Frits Broekhuizen Anne Marie & Michael Bula
D O N O R S ( c o n t .) Patricia & Lewis Chamoy Anne Clausen d g marketing Carol Z. Dolphin 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 J. M. Kohler, Jr. Nancy & John E. Larson Melissa Legg & Rick Reeves Laura Lindner The Lubar Family Foundation, Inc. Joan Lubar Jan & Vince Martin Lynne & Neal Miller Trish Raczkiewicz Christine Radiske & Herbert Quigley Lynn & Paul Rix Karyn & David Roelke Bibi & Greg Rosner Tracy & Jay Rothman Susan & Michael Schall Carol & Kevin Schuele Barbara & Louis Stippich Vieux Et Nouveau Mary & Willard Walker James Westphal Michael Wright & Ray Jivoff $100.00 - $199.00 ANONYMOUS (4) George Affeldt Joyce & Steven Appel in honor of Pam Kriger Michele Askren Marilyn M. Auer Mary Backus Nancy Balcer Gail Bast Richard Blaha Michael Broh Jan & Dan Brophey Nancy Brzonkala Sharon & Richard Canter Doris Carroll Jane & Stephen Chernof Joan Chistopherson Schmidt Deborah Conta Tessa Coons & Jeff Martinka Donald Cress Eileen & Larry Dean Mary Jo & Tom Dempsey Brenda & James DeVita Jason Fassl Barbara Felix-Vyvyan & James Vyvyan
Barbara & William Fernholz Robert Ferriday III Jay Findling David Flores Jane M. Foster David Frank Pat Gahl Katie Gingrass Debbie & Dan Goeckner Lois & Richard Goldberg Peter D. Goldberg Idy & Bill Goodman Peggy Goodman Karen & Tom Guszkowski Susan & Dan Haislmaier Dolores Hayssen Elaine & Ken Herro Jan & Jim Hirsch Daniel W. Hoan Foundation Robin & Hugh Hoffman Candace Hoffmann & David Gaura Sarah & Milt Hwang in memory of Hazel Leukaufe Johnson Controls Foundation Grace & Sydney Johnson Maureen & Daniel Konkol Marlene & Marv Lauwasser Sara & Brian Lipman LaDon Love Susie & Rick Mandel Carol & Rob Manegold Greg McAndrews Mary McCann Elaine McDermott Sarah McEneany Mark Metcalf Martine Meyer Debra Miller Sara & Howard Miller Mark Mishefski Lucia & Jack Murtaugh Kate & Ken Muth Sharon Nicholas Kurt Ollmann & Bill Lavonis William Owens Claire Pfleger Gloria Ramos Toby Recht in honor of Pam Kriger Jacki Scudder Jocelyn Servick & Gary Steinhafel Marsha Sehler Carol Skornicka Diane Slomowitz Gilbert Southwell III Linda Stephenson Paula & Vance Strother Carol & Mike Tarnoff Sally Tolan in honor of Fran Bauer Fay K. Topetzes Sheryl Van Haren
Deja Vishny Mary M. Wegener Caroline & Michael Weil $50.00 - $99.00 ANONYMOUS Elaine & William Appel in honor of Pam Kriger Julie & William Bonnell Mary Frances Bullamore Pat & Phil Crump Deborah & Michael Duncan Nancy Filsinger Drs. Margo & James Frey Susan & Bob Friebert Judy Gordon in honor of Pam Kriger Stephanie & Laurence Govin Matzat Sharon Grant Kathy Grogan Mary Anne Gross Rachel & Dennis Hafemann Jami & Joe Hanreddy Cynthia & Richard Hayes Kathy & John Hickey Cynthia Hiteman Dolores & Nate Holman Josephine Honzik Julia Ihlenfeldt Angela & George Jacobi Bett Jacquart Shelly Jones Maureen E. Kania Robert Kloes Bonnie Lewis in honor of Pam Kriger Lynn Lucius & Richard Taylor Mary Ellen Lukaszewicz Lois Malawsky & Dr. Jay Larkey Judy & Norman Lasca Kate Marrs Judith Martel Donna & Jerry Martynski Evelyn Matten Joni L. & Joseph McDevitt Rita McDonald Donna & Tony Meyer Jane Nicholson & Nancy Shea Lynn Novotnak & Dennis Jacobsen Christine & James O’Brien Jane O’Connell Elaine & Thomas Pagedas Mary Pollock Julie Pandl Kathryn Plumb Pat Rieselbach Russell Rossetto Linda Roethlisberger & Dennis Hennessy Judy Schraiber in honor of Jill Heavenrich Renaissance Theaterworks 13
D O N O R S ( c o n t .) Judith & Bob Scott Carolyn Silberg Minna & Mark Smith Shirley Spelt Donna & Paul Tanzer Gina & John Taucher Lisa Teel Bonnie & Thomas Wiesmueller The Windhover Foundation $25.00 - $49.00 ANONYMOUS (3) Cindy Angelos F. Tessa & Richard Bartels Jeff Bentoff Kenneth Berg Fred Berman Margaret MacLeod Brahm & John W. Brahm Elyse & BJ Cohn Mary Colby Patricia Defrain Barbara Dittl Lin & Dwight Ellis Carol & Milt Flieller Rosie Frydman Thomas Gobel
Reesa & Irv Gottschalk Alice Hanson-Drew & Michael Drew Mary & Stan Harrison Adrienne Hirsch Mrs. Joyzele & Dr. Lawrence Howards Sarajane Kennedy Maureen Kilmurry Mary Knudten Gary Koppelberger Marilyn Kupka Justine Leonard Eva & Elliot Lipchik Jennifer Mattes Lillian Mazur Julie S. McHale Mary Kae Nelson Susan Nivin Oster Lisa & Jake Rasmussen Elaine Reis Sonia & Thomas Rosenthal Eric Ruth Alexis & Vadim Ruzell Susan & Howard Schoenfeld Amalia Schoone Mary Anne Siderits Evelyn & Robert Slater
Katherine M. Smith Tybie & Max Taglin Maggie Topitzes Yvonne & Mark Wagner Alyce & Russell Weiss Julie & Ronald Valona Jenny Wanasek Ann & Gerald Wesolowski Lisa Wright & Mark Ulrich Under $25.00 ANONYMOUS Patricia Anderson Nina Edelman Goodsearch Rita Hale Richard Kilker, Jr. Lisa Kleinschmidt Elaine Nelles Marva Pattillo Tim Riemer Darlene Roberts & Catherine G. Miller Claudette Robinson Lynn Shoemaker Donald Siegel
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 Producing Director................................................................................................ Julie Swenson Co-Artistic Directors.............................................Suzan Fete, Marie Kohler, Jennifer Rupp Marketing Director.....................................................................................Sarah Kriger Hwang Development Director........................................................................................Lisa Rasmussen Playwright in Residence.......................................................................................... Marie Kohler Administrative Intern.................................................................................Thomas Applegarth C R U M B S F R O M T H E TA B L E O F J O Y S TA F F Director...............................................................................................................Dennis F. Johnson Stage Manager............................................................................................................Brandy Kline Scenic Design.................................................................................................. Rick A. Rasmussen Costume Design.......................................................................................................... Holly Payne Lighting Design.............................................................................................................Jason Fassl Sound Design................................................................................................ Christopher J. Guse Properties Design...................................................................................................Jennifer Lyons Properties Design......................................................................................................Anna Warren Dialect Coach................................................................................................Michelle Lopez-Rios Choreographer.................................................................................................................Alicia Rice Technical Director.................................................................................................Anthony Lyons Scenery Construction.................................. Emily Jaques, Timothy Linn, Anthony Lyons Scenic Painting................................................................................................ Rick A. Rasmussen Deck Chief..................................................................................................................Kat Danielson Backstage/Wardrobe.............................................................................................. Darcy Devens Artistic Intern........................................................................................................... Teresita Torres Master Electrician............................................................................................. Kevin R. Connolly House Manager(s).....................................................................Jacqueline Rice, Libby Amato 14 Renaissance Theaterworks
MILWAUKEE CHAMBER THEATRE presents
by Theresa Rebeck
February 17 March 13, 2011 Directed by Andrew Volko; Featuring Drew Brhel, Betsy Skowbo, Jonathan Wainwright, C. Michael Wright & Sara Zientek
A contemporary cat-and-mouse game about a pair of rare stamps from the island of Mauritius, full of twists, turns and plenty of suspense. Sponsored by John E. Holland & Konrad Kuchenbach
Broadway Theatre Center, 158 N. Broadway
414.291.7800 milwaukeechambertheatre.com
G E N E R A L I N F O R M AT I O N Renaissance Theaterworks was founded in 1993 by Suzan Fete, Marie Kohler, Raeleen McMillion, Jennifer Rupp and Michelle Traband. 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 - BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2010-2011 Executive Committee President: Elisabeth Townsend Bridge Vice President: Barbara Ulichny Treasurer: Laura Arnow Secretary: Fran Bauer Directors Jean Bernstein Gabrielle Davidson Sue Frautschi Sandra Hays Jill Heavenrich Patti Keating-Kahn Sue Lueger
Cecilia Abrams Kathy Andreadis Tyne Daly Barbara Felix Mary and Matt Flynn Danni Gendelman Carmen Haberman
Jane Mandel Paula Penebaker Deneine Powell Lois Smith Judith Steininger Sophia Angela Topetzes Strelka Judy Zwirlein Renaissance Roundtable Julilly Kohler Pam Kriger Eric Lind Anne Cabot MacDougald Mary McCann Raeleen McMillion Michael Murphy
Betty Quadracci Norma Saldivar David Sengkhammee Kathleen Tolan Lynde Uihlein
SPECIAL THANKS Production Sponsors Harley-Davidson Foundation, Brewers Community Foundation, City of Milwaukee Arts Board A special thanks goes to the following for their contributions to our production of CRUMBS FROM THE TABLE OF JOY: Temple of Holiness Church of Deliverance, Amanda Marsala, Jim Guy, Milwaukee Repertory Theater, Jill L. Lyons and Lisa Schlenker, Skylight Opera Theatre. 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. 16 Renaissance Theaterworks