Kosarin
Billig
Troob
MUSICAL NUMBERS
ACT ONE
“Little Shop of Horrors” ......................... ...................................................Chiffon, Crystal, Ronnette
“Downtown (Skid Row)”........................................................................................................ Company
“Da-Doo” .................................................................................. Seymour, Chiffon, Crystal, Ronnette
“Grow for Me”............................................................................................................................ Seymour
“Ya Never Know” .................................................. Mushnik, Seymour, Chiffon, Crystal, Ronnette
“Somewhere That’s Green” ......................................................................................................... Audrey
“Closed for Renovation” ........................................................................ Mushnik, Seymour, Audrey
“Dentist!” .......................................................................................... Orin, Chiffon, Crystal, Ronnette
“Mushnik and Son” .................................................................................................Mushnik, Seymour
“Git It”.....................................................................Seymour, Audrey II, Chiffon, Crystal, Ronnette
“Now (It’s Just the Gas)”................................................................................................ Orin, Seymour
ACT TWO
“Call Back in the Morning” ...................................................................................... Audrey, Seymour
“Suddenly Seymour” ............................................... Seymour, Audrey, Chiffon, Crystal, Ronnette
“Suppertime” ........................................................................... Audrey II, Chiffon, Crystal, Ronnette
“The Meek Shall Inherit” ............... Seymour, Chiffon, Crystal, Ronnette, Bernstein, Luce, Snip
“Sominex” / “Suppertime” (Reprise) ..................................................................... Audrey, Audrey II
“Somewhere That’s Green” (Reprise) ....................................................................................... Audrey
Finale: “Don’t Feed the Plants” .............................................................................................. Company
LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS
was originally Directed by Howard Ashman with Musical Staging by Edie Cowan
NOTE FROM THE DIRECTOR
Welcome, dear audience, to our production of Little Shop of Horrors. As the director, it has been an exhilarating journey to bring this beloved cult classic to life on the Garden Theatre stage. This show, with its unique blend of dark comedy, quirky characters, and unforgettable music, has a special place in the hearts of many theatergoers, and we are thrilled to share our rendition with you.
At its core, Little Shop of Horrors is a story about dreams, desires, and the lengths to which one might go to achieve them. Seymour’s journey from a meek, downtrodden florist’s assistant to an unlikely hero entangled with an insatiable plant serves as both a cautionary tale and a darkly comedic adventure. The themes of ambition, morality, and the unintended consequences of our actions resonate as strongly today as they did when the show first debuted.
I must extend my deepest gratitude to our exceptional cast and crew, whose passion and dedication have transformed this production from a script on the page to the dynamic performance you are about to witness. Their talent and hard work shine through in every moment, from the haunting harmonies of our chorus to the meticulous details of our set design.
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Tyrone Robinson for his invaluable contributions and vision in bringing this production to life. His dedication and creativity laid the foundation for the performance you are about to enjoy. Thank you, Tyrone, for your exceptional work and inspiration.
As you immerse yourself in the strange and complex world of Skid Row, I invite you to reflect on the underlying messages of the story. Consider the allure of quick fixes and easy success, and the oftenoverlooked importance of integrity and compassion. It is our hope that while you laugh and perhaps even jump in your seat, you also leave the theater with a sense of the deeper meanings interwoven in this fantastical narrative.
Thank you for joining us on this journey into the heart of Little Shop of Horrors. Sit back, relax, and let the magic of live theater transport you “Downtown” where the unexpected awaits around every corner.
Enjoy the show!
Sincerely,
Kyli Rae Director and Choreographer
THE CAST
In order of appearance
Chiffon ........................................................................................................ ALYSSA JOHNSON
Crystal ........................................................................................................... JORDAN SOPHIA
Ronnette .............................................................................................................. SIENNA WEIR
Mr. Mushnik .................................................................................................. MARK FERRERA
Audrey ..................................................................................................................EMILY DELER
Seymour Krelborn.........................................................................THOMAS NOAH MILLER*
Orin Scrivello / Bernstein / Luce / Snip / Martin / Customer / DJ..................JOHN ROCHETTE*
The Voice of Audrey II ........................................................................................ MELL-VONTI
Vocal Captain JORDAN SOPHIA
Dance Captain MAISY SURMAN
Understudies
For Audrey: MAISY SURMAN
For Chiffon, Ronnette, Crystal: DE’JA ANISE
For Seymour and Orin: BLAKE RUSHING MILLER
For Mr. Mushnik and Audrey II: DUSTIN CUNNINGHAM
*Member of ACTORS EQUITY ASSOCIATION, the union of professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.
SPECIAL THANKS
The Garden Theatre would like to thank these extraordinary partners, without whom this production of Little Shop of Horrors would not be possible: Betty J’s Florist, Orlando Shakes, Westgate Resorts, City of Winter Garden, and Toole’s Ace Hardware.
There will be one 15-minute intermission.
As a courtesy to our performers and audience members, please mute and put away all cell phones and other personal electronic devices during the show. Smoking of any kind, including e-cigarettes, is prohibited within the building.
VIDEO AND/OR AUDIO RECORDING OF THIS PRODUCTION IS A VIOLATION OF UNITED STATES COPYRIGHT LAW, AN ACTIONABLE FEDERAL OFFENSE AND IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
THE PRODUCTION TEAM
Producing Artistic Director ........................................................ ROB WINN ANDERSON
Director / Choreographer...................................................................................... KYLI RAE
Music Director ............................................................................................JOHN B. deHAAS
Assistant Director.....................................................................................JOHN GARDINER
Concept & Pre-production ............................................................ TYRONE L. ROBINSON
Scenic Designer ................................................................................... ROBERT F. WOLIN**
Lighting Designer.............................................................................................. ERIN MINER
Sound Designer ........................................................................................ JESSE R. MUNRO
Costume Designer ............................................................ JOLENE MARIE RICHARDSON
Costume Technician............................................................................... GABS GUTIERREZ
Hair & Make-Up Designer................................................... MARK ADAM RAMPMEYER
Properties Designer ............................................................................................. LISA BUCK
Stage Manager ............................................................................................ BLUE ESTRELLA
Production Manager ....................................................................................TRAVIS EATON
Technical Director ...................................................................................WILLIAM SPRATT
Technical Services Manager .............................................................. OCEAS RODRIGUEZ
Company Manager................................................................................ DARLA HAYWARD
Master Electrician ...............................................................................SHANNON SINGLEY
Lighting Programmer / Light Board Op ............................................ MADISON RAMSEY
Audio Engineer (A1) ......................................................................................... SOL RAMOS
Master Carpenter ............................................................................................ BRETT DAVIS
Carpenter Assistant................................................................................ PALOMA ALONSO
Scenic Artist ......................................................................................................... LISA BUCK
Scenic Artist Assistant .............................................................................. LILLY HASTINGS
Costume & Makeup Run Crew Chief ....................................... MARLEAH HABERKAMP
Run Crew Chief ................................................................................................... SAGE MILE
Props Run Crew Chief ................................................................................CASSIE KLINGA
Scenic Run Crew / Wardrobe Run Crew ...... LIV NUNZIANTE, EMMA MILLHOLLIN, NICK ALLISON
Spot Operator ....................................................................................... KATHERINE REYES
Puppets are supplied by IMAGINATION WORKS.
Puppeteers
Puppet 1 / Tentacle 1a .................................................................................CASSIE KLINGA
Tentacle 2 ................................................................................................... LIV NUNZIANTE
Puppet 3 .............................................................................................. EMMA MILLHOLLIN
Puppet 4 ........................................................................................................ NICK ALLISON **Member of United Scenic Artists, Local USA 829
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
THOMAS NOAH MILLER* (Seymour Krelborn) Texas State University (BFA) 2016. Thomas got his big break with the first Broadway national tour of Finding Neverland (Elliot/Ensemble)! Now, he plays the role of Crush in Finding Nemo: The Big Blue and Beyond at the Animal Kingdom, sings Tenor in the Dapper Dans, and performs with Entertainment Central Productions all around Florida and beyond! Other Regional credits include: A.D. Player’s Theater, Houston: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (Ralph Herdman), Godspell (Swing), and Snoopy the Musical (Linus) a workshop with the composer Larry Grossman. Thomas is so excited to do his first show at the Garden Theatre!
EMILY DELER (Audrey) is delighted to be making her Garden Theatre debut in Little Shop of Horrors. She started her career at the Orlando Family Stage, formerly known as the Orlando Repertory, in Junie B. Jones is Not a Crook (That Grace). She spent three years overseas performing in The Festival of the Lion King (Nala) at Hong Kong Disneyland and in Mickey and The Wondrous Book. Last year you may have seen her in Surf Holiday (Coral) and O Wondrous Night at SeaWorld Orlando or singing about what the holiday means in Disney’s Holidays in Hollywood at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. She can currently be seen at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in The Festival of the Lion King (Kibibi) and Finding Nemo: The Big Blue and Beyond (Deb). She would like to thank her mother, Josh and friends for all of their love and support! Follow her on Instagram @emilydeler
MARK FERRERA (Mr. Mushnik) Garden Theatre: Moonlight and Magnolias (Ben Hecht), The Odd Couple (Oscar Madison), Man of La Mancha (Innkeeper); Orlando Shakes: God of Carnage (Michael), Merry Wives of Windsor (Robert Shallow), Bad Dog (multiple roles), Peter and the Starcatcher (Smee), West Side Story (Doc); Mad Cow: A Child’s Christmas in Wales (multiple roles), Molly Sweeney (Mr. Rice); Orlando Family Stage: I Never Saw Another Butterfly (Father). Mark would like to thank Trudy, his (now very grown) children, his parents, family and friends.
JOHN ROCHETTE* (Orin Scrivello / Bernstein / Luce / Snip / Martin / Customer / DJ) was recently seen in the Garden Theatre’s All Shook Up as Chad, and Moonshine & Mistletoe – An Appalachian Christmas Tale as Jarrett. Last August he also played Elvis Presley in Orlando Shakes’ Million Dollar Quartet. Past New York City credits include: Jersey Boys on Broadway/Tour/offBway (Tommy DeVito & Norm), including the upcoming Jersey Boys film starring Nick Jonas, Blue Man Group (Center Blue Man), Spamalot (Lancelot), Rocky Horror (FrankNFurter). John is also the drummer for local band Johnny Wild & the Delights. Instagram: @John_Rochette. Endless love to Leslie, Jude, and Vivienne.
*Member of ACTORS EQUITY ASSOCIATION, the union of professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
MELL-VONTI (Voice of Audrey II) is ecstatic to come back home to Florida to perform in one of his dream musicals after almost 20 years of doing Theatre across the U.S. Mell-Vonti, a graduate of Baldwin Wallace Universities BFA Acting Program, is an Actor, Singer, Dancer, Model and Writer who just ended his First 11 City National Tour with the Company of North the Musical. He is Grateful to God for His continued Covering and Blessings, to his Mom Teresa, Brother Darrell, Aunt Thelma, Cousin Jameeka, extended family and friends near and far for their love and continuous support. Mell-Vonti would also like to extend a special thank you to his good friend Bobby for his support and recommendation! @TheRealSup3rstar
JORDAN SOPHIA (Crystal / Vocal Captain) is thrilled to be making her return to the Garden Theatre with her first main stage production! Little Shop of Horrors has been a dream show of hers for a long time and getting to perform it with such a stellar cast has been incredible. Jordan was recently seen as Belle with Central Florida Community Arts in their concert production of Beauty and the Beast but performs regularly with various theatre groups in the Orlando area. Jordan can be seen leading the Giraffe Section in The Festival of the Lion King at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and occasionally twirling napkins at the Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue. Other credits include Sandy Cheeks (The Spongebob Musical), Inga (Young Frankenstein), and Lion (Giraffes Can’t Dance). She would like to thank her incredibly supportive boyfriend, Justin, for being there for her every step of this process. “Maybe do feed the plants… they deserve a little treat.” IG:@jordansophia123
SIENNA WEIR (Ronnette) is a dedicated performer from Tampa, Florida. Sienna is currently in her Senior year at the University of Central Florida in the BFA Musical Theatre program. Her recent theatre credits include UCF’s production of Sweeney Todd (Ensemble), Chicken and Biscuits (U/S Beverly, Baneatta, Simone, La’Trice, Brianna) and Sunday in the Park with George (Frieda/ Betty) at Titusville Playhouse. She also has experience working for Stageworks Tampa and Plant City Entertainment. Sienna enjoys playing a wide range of characters ranging from comedic and charming to serious and terrifying. Sienna is a rare individual who is determined, stimulating, and realistic. She is excited to make her debut at the Garden Theatre.
ALYSSA JOHNSON (Chiffon) is a rising senior in the BFA Musical Theatre Program at Theatre UCF. This is her first show at the Garden Theatre and she is thrilled that this will be her first professional production of a show. Past credits include being seen on the Theatre UCF stage in productions such as The Prom (Emma Nolan), Sweeney Todd (Ensemble), Bright Star (Swing). Other past credits include: The Four Counts, Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Troupe.
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
DE’JA ALISE (Understudy for Chiffon, Ronnette, Crystal) is no stranger to the Sunshine State. She grew up in Apopka, FL and attended Apopka High School while participating in chorus, marching band, and cheer. She went on to become an Ambassador of Goodwill with the Bethune-Cookman Concert Chorale, Hail Wildcats! After graduating in 2022 she went on to tour in a new musical, The Last Adam, as Eve/Ensemble. To all her family, friends, and supporters she says a huge thank you for encouraging her to pursue her passions. A special shoutout to her parents Matthew and Dana Williams! “Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire.” - Jennifer Lee
DUSTIN CUNNINGHAM (Understudy for Mr. Mushnik, Audrey II) is thrilled to be back again at The Garden, after appearing previously as Harold Hill in The Music Man and most recently as Earl in All Shook Up. Dustin has appeared in National Tours, Regional Theatre, and with Opera and Symphony companies for over 22 years professionally. He spent over 16 years traveling the world working alongside his lovely wife Courtney as Entertainers for numerous Cruise Lines visiting 87 countries around the globe. Locally, you can catch him at Sleuths Mystery Dinner Shows, Capone’s Dinner and Show, The Gaylord Palms, and Universal. Thank you to everyone at The Garden for inviting me back to join this lovely cast and crew. www.TheCunninghamsOnStage.com
BLAKE RUSHING MITCHELL
(Understudy for Seymour, Orin) is excited to be joining his first production at Garden Theatre! He holds a BM in Voice from Samford University and recently graduated from Shenandoah Conservatory with an MM in Contemporary Commercial Music Voice Pedagogy. Recent credits include: A Christmas Carol (Bob Cratchit), Little Women (Professor Bhaer), Into the Woods (Baker), the world premiere of The Ghosts of Gatsby (Scott), and My Fair Lady (Quartet/Freddy U/S). In addition to performing, Blake works as a voice teacher, music director, and composer/arranger. He thanks his family and friends for their unending support! mitchellvoice.com Col 3:23.
MAISY SURMAN (Understudy for Audrey / Dance Captain) is thrilled to be making her Garden Theatre debut! She is a rising senior pursuing a BFA in Musical Theatre at the University of Central Florida. You may have seen her in 9 to 5 (Kathy, Judy U/S), The Prom (Ensemble, Emma U/S, Alyssa U/S), and Ordinary Days (Deb). She hopes you enjoy this wonderful production! @maisysurman
WHO’S WHO IN THE CREATIVE TEAM
KYLI RAE (Director / Choreographer) was honored to be awarded “best choreography” by the Orlando Sentinel in their Best of Orlando Theatre 2023 Critic’s Picks for her work on The Prom at the University of Central Florida. Most recently, Ms. Rae choreographed Summer: The Donna Summer Musical at the Gateway Playhouse in New York and then went on to both direct and choreograph this same show for Norwegian Cruise Line. In addition to directing and choreographing, Kyli has extensive performing credits and can be seen singing ‘My Boyfriend’s Back’ in the Warner Bros. film adaptation of Jersey Boys, directed by Clint Eastwood. Her Broadway and 1st National Tour credits include Jersey Boys, Mamma Mia!, Flashdance, Rock of Ages, Summer: The Donna Summer Musical, and A Bronx Tale. Ms. Rae has toured Europe with the musicals Grease and Fame, and performed for years in Japan. She had the pleasure of dancing multiple years on the Academy Awards under the direction of Debbie Allen and has worked with legendary artists such as Celine Dion, Robert De Niro, Carol Burnett, Chazz Palminteri, Nell Carter, Alan Menken, Jerry Orbach, and Leo Salonga on various projects.
@KyliRaeLA
JOHN B. deHAAS (Music Director) A professional music director and pianist for many years, John has been working in Orlando since his move here in 1999. Original shows include Psycho Mode (Patron’s Pick), Just This Once: A Song Cycle (Orlando Fringe & Critics’ Choice Winner for Best Original Score), Toiley T. Paper: Summer of Love (Hollywood and San Diego, CA), Toiley T. Paper: Roll Model (Orlando & Hollywood Fringe), Tappin’ and Yappin’! (Orlando Fringe & The Abbey), Halloween the Musical (Footlight Theater & Margeson), Theme Park Diva (Orlando Fringe). Recent shows: Dreamgirls (Garden Theatre), The Last Five Years, Chess in Concert, [title of show], Bat Boy, First Date, Cabaret (Florida Theatrical), Heathers (DPPAC), The Fantasticks, Les Misérables, The Big Bang (Orlando Shakes), and 27 shows for West Orange HS. Currently working as music director, comedy writer for Toiley T. Paper, TikTok superstar (3 million followers)
JOHN GARDINER (Assistant Director) Garden Theatre debut! John most recently co-directed Summer: The Donna Summer Musical, with Kyli Rae, for Norwegian Cruise Line. Gardiner was nominated for Best Director of a Musical on the Orlando Sentinel’s “Best of Theatre 2023 List” for The Prom at UCF. As a performer— Broadway: Jersey Boys (Tommy DeVito), A Bronx Tale (Carmine). Broadway National tours: The Lion King (Timon), Jersey Boys (Tommy DeVito), A Bronx Tale (Rudy the Voice), and Summer: The Donna Summer Musical (Neil Bogart). Most recently: Million Dollar Quartet (Sam Phillips), Orlando Shakes. John is a full-time acting professor at UCF, Go Knights! Instagram: @GardinerNYC
TYRONE L. ROBINSON (Concept & Pre-production) Tyrone was Associate Director of Sunset Boulevard (starring Stephanie J. Block and Derek Klena) at The Kennedy Center (dir. Sammi Cannold). Tyrone’s most recent directing credits include a critically acclaimed production of Harrison David Rivers’ play This Bitter Earth (InterAct Theatre Company), Love, Uncensored (Concert at the Triad Theatre NYC starring Wilkie Ferguson and featuring Broadway’s Joshua Henry), The Music of Nat King Cole (regional tour), Douglas Lyons’ Chicken & Biscuits (Bristol Riverside Theatre), the world premiere of francisca da silveira’s play pay no worship (InterAct Theatre Company), Ain’t Misbehavin’ (The REV Theatre), Owen & Mzee (TYA national tour), and the short film, Un{H}armed, which was a selection of film festivals nationwide including the Big Muddy, Hudson Shorts, New York Shorts, Atlanta Shorts, RKDS, and Harlem International Film Festivals. Additional Associate Directing credits include JOY the musical (workshop starring Laura Bell Bundy and Annie Golden, dir. Sammi Cannold) and Private Gomer Jones at the National Alliance for Musical Theatre New Musicals Festival (dir. Sammi Cannold). As an actor, Tyrone
WHO’S WHO IN THE CREATIVE TEAM
has performed on Broadway, Broadway National Tours, and countless regional theaters around the country. He had a recurring role on Seasons 4 and 5 of the hit NBC television series New Amsterdam and has also made television appearances on FBI: Most Wanted, The Blacklist, and HBO’s Lovecraft Country. Tyrone earned his MFA degree at New York University Tisch School of the Arts and he thanks Rob and the entire Garden Theatre Staff for this opportunity.
ROBERT F. WOLIN** (Scenic Designer) Representative scenic designs include Garden Theatre: Deathtrap; Osceola Arts: 42nd Street, Young Frankenstein, We Will Rock You, Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder; Florida Rep: A Sherlock Carol, On Golden Pond, The Hound of the Baskervilles, Educating Rita, God of Carnage, King o’ the Moon, Dial M for Murder, Middle Ages, The Sugar Bean Sisters, Absurd Person Singular; Zoetic Stage: American Rhapsody (World Premiere), Clark Gable Slept Here (World Premiere); Gulfshore Playhouse: The Game’s Afoot, Master Class, Importance of Being Earnest, I Am My Own Wife, A Streetcar Named Desire, Handle with Care, Unnecessary Farce, A View from the Bridge, Honour, A Doll’s House; Alabama Shakespeare Festival: Two Gentlemen of Verona, King Lear, Cinderella, Comedy of Errors, Othello, Romeo and Juliet, Cymbeline; Island City Stage: Die! Mommie! Die!, Love! Valour! Compassion!, Armature, Rotterdam; Porthouse Theatre: Anything Goes (2008 and 2018), Dames at Sea, Amadeus, Much Ado About Nothing, Pump Boys and Dinettes, Man of La Mancha; Mad Cow Theatre: Tale of the Allergist’s Wife, Born Yesterday, Fences, Three Sisters, Pygmalion, 1776, Avenue Q, and My Name is Asher Lev; Off Broadway: Rules of Desire (World Premiere), An Evening with Quentin Crisp, Fraulein Else, Queen of Hearts, Shivaree, The Hollowed Man, and for The Glines Welcome to Chelsea, Nooses, Knives and Lovers, Dancing on Ice. Broadway Assistant Designer: The Producers, Young Frankenstein, Flower Drum Song, Never Gonna Dance with Robin Wagner, Liza’s at the Palace with Ray Klausen. www.RFWolin.com
ERIN MINER (Lighting Designer) Erin has been a lighting designer in Central Florida since 1978 for both theatre and dance companies. She is always happy to be back at the Garden Theatre. Some previous Garden Theatre shows are: The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Deathtrap, and Big. “Thank you for supporting local theater! Your support is needed now more than ever.”
JESSE R. MUNRO (Sound Designer) Jesse has designed and engineered sound for over 100 concert, musical, and stage play productions, and was the resident Sound Designer and Director of Operations at Theatre Winter Haven until 2022. He has worked in and managed permanent sound installations at over a dozen performing arts and large events facilities in Central Florida. He also has over 25 years’ experience in corporate accounting, management, and information technology, specializing in insurance, real estate development, nonprofit, and government, and is currently the Chief of Finance and IT for the Stallings Group. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Florida.
JOLENE MARIE RICHARDSON (Costume Designer) Jolene is thrilled to be back at Garden Theatre having previously designed A Christmas Story back in 2018. She is so thankful Rob brought her back this season for Little Shop and she hopes to make her mentor AJ Garcia proud carrying on his legacy. Her more recent credits include The Actors School at Pace University Rep Season, Cannibal Mukbang (in film festivals now), and Khan! The Musical (Off Broadway). Jolene is also
**Member of United Scenic Artists, Local USA 829
WHO’S WHO IN THE CREATIVE TEAM
a fashion historian and writer, follow her work through the pages of Fangoria or through her blog “Hanging By A Thread.” You can follow Jolene on Instagram for up-to-date projects and upcoming lectures @JoleneMarie_Designs.
MARK ADAM RAMPMEYER (Hair and Make-Up Designer) Mark is very happy to be returning to the Garden Theatre. Most recently his designs were seen here in Always... Patsy Cline. Locally his work has also been seen in the CFC Arts production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast and their Youth Theatre production of Into the Woods. Other credits include the Broadway productions of West Side Story, Lysistrata Jones, The Farnsworth Invention, Phantom of the Opera, Sunset Boulevard, 42nd Street, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, All Shook Up, and Kiss of the Spider Woman. Thank you to all who continue to support him on this journey. *peep*
LISA BUCK (Props Designer / Scenic Artist) is a graduate of the Massachusetts College of Art. She lived and worked in NYC as a graphic designer for ten years. She studied painting at the Parsons School of Design, Pratt Institute, and Cobalt Studios, White Lake, NY. She has been a designer and scenic artist in Orlando for 25 years, painting for the Orlando Opera, Mad Cow Theatre, Orlando Rep, Lake Highland Prep, and the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. Her most recent project was designing UCF Opera’s The Marriage of Figaro. Lisa is thrilled to be a part of the Garden Theatre.
BLUE ESTRELLA (Stage Manager) is ECSTATIC to be back for her 18th show at Garden Theatre! With a BFA in Theatre Arts, she started at SAK Comedy Lab as the FOH Manager and a Lighting/ Sound Improviser for the live improv shows. She’s the PSM for Play-In-A-Day and has stagemanaged for Beth Marshall Presents, Wanzie Presents, Florida Theatrical Association, Theater West End, Theatre South Playhouse, and is the venue tech for the Orlando Fringe BYOV - Savoy. Currently, she teaches Technical Theatre at Lake Mary High School and works as an A/V tech at The Abbey. Besides that, she is also a color guard performer! She performed in the 2019 Macy’s Day Parade and has been choreographing/directing the Ocoee High Knights Visual Ensemble since 2016. IG: #ocoeeknightsvisualensemble
HOWARD ASHMAN (Book & Lyrics) Best known as a pivotal creative mind behind the renaissance of Disney animation and his work on The Little Mermaid, Aladdin and Beauty and The Beast (which is dedicated to, “Our friend, Howard Ashman, who gave a Mermaid her voice and a Beast his soul...”) Ashman’s first love was theater. Ashman was a founder of off off Broadway’s renowned WPA Theater, where he conceived, wrote and directed God Bless You, Mr. Rosewater, as well as the classic musical, Little Shop of Horrors (both music by Alan Menken). In 1986, he wrote and directed the Broadway musical Smile (music by Marvin Hamlisch). Lamented as a lost treasure of the 1980’s theater scene, Smile remains popular on High School and College campuses throughout the country. Howard Ashman died in 1991 from complications of AIDS. For more information, please visit howardashman.com.
ALAN MENKEN (Composer) Theater: God Bless You Mr Rosewater, Little Shop Of Horrors, Real Life Funnies, Atina: Evil Queen Of The Galaxy, Kicks, The Apprenticeship Of Duddy Kravitz, Beauty And The Beast, A Christmas Carol, Weird Romance, King David, Der Glöckner Von Notre Dame, The Little Mermaid, Sister Act, Leap Of Faith, Aladdin and Newsies. Film: Little Shop Of Horrors, The Little Mermaid, Beauty And The Beast, Newsies, Aladdin, Pocahontas, The Hunchback Of Notre Dame, Hercules, Life With Mikey, Lincoln, Home On The Range, Noel, Enchanted, Shaggy Dog, Tangled and Mirror Mirror. Songs: Rocky V, Home Alone 2 and Captain America. Awards: 8
WHO’S WHO IN THE CREATIVE TEAM
Oscars (19 nominations), 11 Grammys (including Song of the Year), 7 Golden Globes, Tony® (plus 4 nominations), Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle, New York Drama Critics, Olivier and London’s Evening Standard Award, Drama League. Honors: Songwriter’s Hall of Fame, Doctorates from New York University and University of North Carolina School of the Arts.
Music Theatre International (MTI) is one of the world’s leading theatrical licensing agencies, granting theatres from around the world the rights to perform the greatest selection of musicals from Broadway and beyond. Founded in 1952 by composer Frank Loesser and orchestrator Don Walker, MTI is a driving force in advancing musical theatre as a vibrant and engaging art form. MTI works directly with the composers, lyricists and book writers of these musicals to provide official scripts, musical materials and dynamic theatrical resources to over 100,000 professional, community and school theatres in the US and in over 150 countries worldwide. MTI is particularly dedicated to educational theatre and has created special collections to meet the needs of various types of performers and audiences. MTI’s Broadway Junior® shows are 30and 60-minute musicals for performance by elementary and middle school-aged performers, while MTI’s School Editions are musicals annotated for performance by high school students. MTI maintains its global headquarters in New York City with additional offices in London (MTI Europe) and Melbourne (MTI Australasia).
Rebecca Roper Proscenium Arch
There is a physical space in the theatre that serves as a bridge between the audience and the actors. It is called a proscenium arch - a gateway and connector. The proscenium of the Garden is named in honor of our Founding Board President’s volunteer service since March 2003, her leadership, and a passion for the arts that changed a community.
Box Office Info
Tickets are available online at gardentheatre.org or by calling 407-877-GRDN (4736).
Discounts available for parties of 10 or more. For more information call 407-877-4736 ext. 208 or jean@gardentheatre.org.
Due to the nature of live performance, events, performers, dates, and times are subject to change.
Seating policy – All late seating will be at the discretion of the House Manager and cannot be guaranteed. Please arrive early.
House Rules – Any photography, audio, or video recording of this performance is strictly prohibited. House management reserves the right to remove disruptive guests. No outside food or drink; concessions are available for purchase.
Accessibility – Kindly arrange any special needs, including wheelchair accessible seating, with the Box Office staff. House management will provide assisted listening devices upon request.
Returns and Exchanges – There are no refunds on tickets to Garden Theatre events. All sales are final. There is a $5 exchange fee on ticket orders. Ticket exchanges must be made at least 24 hours prior to the performance. No credit will be given. Subscribers are exempt from this fee.
Restrooms – Restrooms are located on the second floor via the grand staircase through the double doors near concessions. The lobby restroom is meant for those guests with difficulty accessing the second floor.
Just as roots are vital to a garden’s growth, our Root Donors are vital to Garden Theatre’s prosperity. Donors who are acknowledged through permanent recognition on our donor tree have contributed $5,000 or above to the Garden Theatre Restoration Campaign between 2004 and January 15, 2015, OR have bestowed a one-time cash donation of at least $10,000. The gifts of these donors contribute to future developments and growth of the Garden Theatre for years to come.
Anonymous
A. Friends’ Foundation
ABC Fine Wine & Spirits
Advent Health
Avie and Jeanne Abramowitz
Annette and George Spigener
Bill and Nancy Yarger
Bob and Dianna Duffy
Cappleman, Inc.
City of Winter Garden
Charles W. and Wesley McMillan
Clarence Otis and Jacqueline Bradley
Danniel Petro
Darden Restaurants Foundation
Diamond R Fertilizer
DL Foundation
Dr. P. Phillips Charities
Dr. William and Phaedra Steele
Duke Energy
Harold and Rosy Mills
Harriett’s Trust
The Bob Allen Family Foundation
Christopher and Jean Boone
Clear Channel Outdoor Crabtree Ink
David F. Baldree and Derek Carter
Bray Ace Hardware
Lucy Carney
Diana and Fred Chambers
Kristy and Barry Altland
William and Kathy Barrett
Charities Aid Foundation of America
Keith M. Davenport
Katherine Dellacasa
David and Nancy Deskins
Ricky and Alicia Eidson
Geraldine Ferreira
Anonymous Anonymous
Anonymous
Jennifer Apfel
James D. Atchison
Noa Bauman
Mark Dixon
Alex and Jesse Douglas
George and Peggy Albu
Anonymous
Anonymous
Anonymous
Melinda Antalek
James and Deborah Balaschak
Dick and Andrea Batchelor
Chad Bratschi
Jacob Bucciarelli
Christopher and Kristine Bunnell
Charlotte Carter
Tom Carto
Cathee Casanta
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Devins
Ron Eberhardt
Robert and Mary Eighmie
Isabel G. Brislenn
Jack Holloway Foundation
Jack H. Ross Groves, Inc.
John C. Walsh in Memory of Deborah
Smith Walsh
John and Sharyn Murphy
Keene Properties, Inc.
Keith Davenport
Keith Smith and Marc Caglia
Larry and Harriette Grimes
Mary and Dick Nunis
McAllister Foundation
Morgridge Family Foundation
Orange County Arts and Cultural Affairs
Orlando Health
Publix Super Markets Charities
R.C. Kesslers
Raymer and Dean Maguire
Rebecca Roper
Ronald W. Sikes
S.C. Battaglia Foundation
Luminary Circle ($5,000+ Gifts)
Market to Table
Pilars Martini & Loft
Dr. Rafael Piñero and Dennis Dunham
Director’s Club ($2,500+ Gifts)
Freddi and James Goodrich
Corey and Shannon Hoagland
Dave King In Honor of Larry Payne
Producer’s Club ($1,000+ Gifts)
Mary Anne Ferrell
Mr. and Mrs. Edward and Laura Firth
Will and Rosemary Gates
Randy Griswold
Dr. and Mrs. H.E. Gross
The Hangry Bison
Jeff and Heather Huenink Hoagland Law
Nancy Juron
Kendra Scott, LLC
Steven Kittendorf
Rosemary O’Shea
Kathy Oliver
Shaunessey Quinn
State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture
State of Florida Historic Preservation
SunTrust
The Bond Foundation
The Brown Family Foundation
The Martin Andersen-Gracia Andersen Foundation
The Roper Family Foundation, Inc.
Tim’s Wine Market
United Arts of Central Florida
Universal Orlando Foundation
Valencia College
Valencia Foundation
Walt Disney World
Ward Britt Family
Whitney Morse
Winifred and Joel Sharp
Winter Garden Community Redevelopment
West Orange Junior Service League
Becky Roper and Mike Soucy
Roper Family Foundation Universal Orlando Foundation
Seacoast Bank
Keith Smith and Marc Caglia
Todd Wheeler - Wheeler Projects Inc.
Rotary Club of Winter Garden
Van and Carol Sher
Dr. Mark Stuart
Featured Star ($500+ Gifts)
Edgewater Hotel
Amber Glassman
Larry Henrichs
Matthew Jassak
Kim Kiraly
Lotus Holdings
Aisling Maes
Greg Mason
Russ Elms
Charlsie McDaniel
Corinne Mestemacher
Nulman Mediation Services
Debra S. O’Grattan
Omni Productions
Iliana Ramos
Lanny Reddick
Resident Artist ($150+ Gifts)
Barbara A. Finazzo
Eileen and Lucy Forrester
Joanne Garner
Elizabeth Gwinn
Glenn Herbert Hansen
Gloria Hardee
Monica Hernandez Pagan
Walt and Sue Herscher
Elizabeth Johnson
Junebug Foundation - Randy and Jamie June
Richard and Martha Kessler
Dennis and Melanie King
Christopher Laue
Michael Lewellen
Irv Lipscomb
James and Sarah Martin
The Mary Palmer Family Foundation
Kay Matlin
Jimmy Mattos
Matt and Teresa McGrew
Geoffrey Moehl
Susan F. Murphy
Susie and Ken Ng
Justin and Jolene Patrou
Shirley K. Piercy
Walter Pietrovich
James Plugh and Robin M. Back
Donna K. Raymond
Mary Recchia Brown
Michael and Anna Suarez
Kathryn Ustler
Dr. Joe and Sue Warren
Wayne Weinberg and Amy Pempel
Winter Garden 100
Winter Garden Rotary
Leighton and Phyllis Yates
Deborah Zutter and Alice Williams
Dr. David J. Romano and Dr. Joyce C. Romano
Carolyn Seavey
Cassandra Stefanovic
Rich and Andy Taylor
Urban on Plant Kitchen and Bar
Donna and Keith Van Allen
Howard and Lenore Roland
Nick and Jane Ronan
Beverly and Dennis Salmon
Richard Sandler
Abbe Smith
In Memory of Leon Smith
John Spears
Pamela Spears
Danielle Stokes
Blaine and Eileen Strickland
Vernon Swartsel
Peggy Tepper
West Orange Junior Service League
Kristine Worrell
Christine Wright
This list includes all gifts and committed pledges as of January 1, 2023 through June 9, 2024. We apologize for any errors or omissions and request that you notify Nancy Deskins, Development Director, at nancy@gardentheatre.org for corrections.
JOIN OUR GARDEN PATRON PROGRAM
2024 - 2025 Season Annual Giving Donor Benefits
Your essential contribution allows us to invest in our community arts with programs of excellence.
$150+ | Resident Artist
• Recognition on donor list in the Playbill and on the Garden Theatre Website for one year.
$500+ | Featured Star
• Recognition on donor list in the Playbill and on the Garden Theatre Website for one year.
• Voucher for 25% discount off two single tickets.
$1,000+ | Producer’s Club
As a Producer’s Club member, you will enjoy access to Garden Theatre artists and the artistic process; you will get to know the people of Garden Theatre and what makes them tick.
• Recognition on donor list in the Playbill and on the Garden Theatre Website for one year.
• Voucher for two complimentary Tier II tickets to a Broadway on Plant production.
• Invitations to exclusive events with actors, directors, and/or theatre and production artists.
$2,500+ | Director’s Club
As a Director’s Club member, you will enjoy access to Garden Theatre artists and the artistic process. You will get to know the people of Garden Theatre and what makes them tick.
• Recognition on donor list in the Playbill and on the Garden Theatre Website for one year.
• Voucher for two complimentary Tier II tickets to a Broadway on Plant production.
Community Partners
• Voucher for two complimentary Tier II tickets to a concert or special event production.
• Invitation(s) to select Dress Rehearsal performances.
• Invitation(s) to exclusive events with actors, directors, and/ or theatre and production artists.
$5,000+ | Luminary Circle
Luminary Circle members enjoy additional exclusive benefits for engaging, behind-the-scenes experiences of the Theatre and its programs. You will hear firsthand how and why directors, designers, and actors make the choices they make.
• Recognition on donor list in the Playbill and on the Garden Theatre Website for one year.
• Voucher for two complimentary Golden Circle tickets to a Broadway on Plant production.
• Voucher for two complimentary Golden Circle tickets to a concert or special event production.
• Invitation(s) to a backstage tour to select season productions.
• Additional opportunities throughout the year to engage with theatre leadership and theatre artists.
• Invitation(s) to select Dress Rehearsal performances.
• Invitations to exclusive events with actors, directors, and/or theatre and production artists.
• Hosted, exclusive dinner for two (2) at a Plant Street Restaurant with a member of the theatre’s Creative/ Executive team to discuss the Garden’s vision and partnering opportunities.
• Voucher for two complimentary tickets to Garden Theatre’s annual Encore event.
This project is funded in part by Orange County Government through the Arts & Cultural Affairs Program; the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, and the National Endowment for the Arts. Additional support for Garden Theatre is provided by generous individual donors and United Arts of Central Florida, your local agency for the arts.
EDGEWATER HOTEL
UA Donor List:
Staf f & Board
OUR STAFF
Keith Davenport
Chief Organizational Officer
Rob Winn Anderson
Producing Creative Director
DeAnna Johnson Director, Finance & Administration
Amanda Payne Director, Education and Community/ Front of House Manager
Nancy Deskins
Development Director
Travis Eaton
Production Manager
William Spratt
Technical Director
Brian Fallon
Theatre Operations Manager
Jean Boone Group Sales Manager
Accessibility Coordinator
Oceas Rodriguez
Technical Services Manager
Olga Hosszu
Box Office Lead
Kim Kiraly
Volunteer Coordinator
Darla Hayward
Company Manager
In-House Technicians:
Madison Ramsey
Sol Ramos
Cameron Houston
Front of House Associates:
Matt Coffey
Miles Derwick
Tawnya Heitkamp
Cameron McClellan
Erica Nowak
Kate Reilly
Jodi Stuart
Education Coordinators: Cameron McClellan
Olivia Sundberg
Thank you to our wonderful volunteers. You are the heart of the Garden Theatre!
Matthew Harvell Food & Beverage Supervisor
Bartenders:
Kathleen Daniel Anthony Hiracheta
BOARD LEADERSHIP
Rich Taylor Board Chair
David Baldree Board Vice Chair
David J. Romano Board Secretary
BOARD MEMBERS
Lauren Cardona
Diana Chambers
Jo-El Gonzalez
Matthew E. Jassak
Gregory S. Mason
Jeffery Redding
Wayne Weinberg
Becky Roper
Emeritus Trustee
Founding Board President
Keith Smith Emeritus Trustee
Barbara Roper (In Memoriam) Emeritus Trustee & Founder
