Cleveland’s Classic Company at the Hanna Theatre presents
Feb. 16 – Mar. 11, 2018
Tri-C Creative Arts Dance Academy
SETTING THE STAGE
for success
We believe that all Cleveland youth should have access to high-quality arts education. Through the generosity of our donors, we have invested nearly $2 million since 2016 to scale up neighborhoodbased programs that now serve 1,500 youth year-round in music, dance, theater, photography, literary arts and curatorial mastery. That’s setting the stage for success. Find your passion, and partner with the Cleveland Foundation to make your greatest charitable impact.
(877) 554-5054 clevelandfoundation.org/success
TABLE OF CONTENTS
GreatLakesTheater.org
Welcome..................................................................................................................... 4 About Great Lakes Theater............................................................................................ 5 News & Notes.............................................................................................................. 6 Misery......................................................................................................................... 9 Cast of Characters...................................................................................................... 10 The Artistic Company................................................................................................. 12 Donors....................................................................................................................... 19 Trustees..................................................................................................................... 24 Staff.......................................................................................................................... 25 Guest Services at Playhouse Square............................................................................ 30 February/March at Playhouse Square........................................................................... 31
Be the Star of the Show
PHOTO: JULIE HAHN/SUGARBUSH DESIGN
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WELCOME Dear Friends,
at Playhouse Square
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n behalf of our artists, staff and Board of Trustees, welcome to Great Lakes Theater’s 56th season! Our mission, “to bring the pleasure, power and relevance of classic theater to the widest possible audience,” guides our mainstage productions as well as our educational programming, in the belief that theater holds the capacity to illuminate truth and enduring values, celebrate and challenge human nature and actions, and provide our student audiences a glimpse of a broader world and the wellspring of learning made possible through the arts. Following the sensational success of our fall and winter season offerings, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and A Christmas Carol, we are thrilled to be back on stage at the Hanna Theatre with three great plays: William Goldman’s adaptation of Stephen King’s psychological thriller, Misery; Shakespeare’s phantasmagoria of horror, Macbeth; and, as antidote to Misery and Macbeth, Beehive: The 60s Musical, a celebration of pop music from the groovy 60s, not to mention the outlandish hair! Our exploration of classic crime plays (beginning with Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap in 2012) continues this season with the Midwest premiere of Stephen King’s gothic thriller, Misery. William Goldman’s adaptation for the stage takes us on an unforgettable journey into the dark heart of Annie Wilkes, the “number one fan” of novelist Paul Sheldon. Our stellar cast includes returning favorites Andrew May and Kathleen Pirkl Tague. As we did with last season’s Elizabethan-inspired production of Hamlet, our spring Shakespeare production of Macbeth will again invite audiences on stage for a full immersion in the nightmarish vision of Shakespeare’s darkest tragedy. Be prepared for a close encounter with witches, ghosts and bloody murder! The finale to our season brings six dynamic women to the stage in Beehive, a 60s-era jukebox musical created by Larry Gallagher and staged by Great Lakes Theater Resident Director, Victoria Bussert. Beehive celebrates the music of Aretha Franklin, The Supremes, Janis Joplin and many more. We sincerely hope you will join us for all three of our spring productions as we mark our 56th season! I encourage you to read through your program and look around the theater tonight. You will see the names of many friends, partners, corporations and foundations, whose generous support makes all of this possible. Please consider joining these donors by becoming a member of the Great Lakes Theater family with your gift! (As a reminder, ticket sales account for only 50 percent of the cost of producing our mainstage productions and educational programs.) Complete Membership information can be found in the insert enclosed in this playbill. We extend our deepest gratitude to all of our sponsors and annual Members, with continued appreciation to our partners of over 35 years at Playhouse Square and the tireless efforts of our board of trustees, dedicated administrative staff, gifted artists and the tremendous generosity of this community! I hope to see you in our audience again soon.
Charles Fee Producing Artistic Director
ABOUT GREAT LAKES THEATER
T
he mission of Great Lakes Theater (GLT), through its main stage productions and its education programs, is to bring the pleasure, power and relevance of classic theater to the widest possible audience. Since the company’s inception in 1962, programming has been rooted in Shakespeare, but GLT’s commitment to great plays spans the breadth of all cultures, forms of theater and time periods –– including the 20th century –– and provides for the occasional mounting of new works that complement the classical repertoire. Classic theater holds the capacity to illuminate truth and enduring values, celebrate and challenge human nature and actions, revel in eloquent language, and preserve the traditions of diverse cultures and generate communal spirit. On its main stage and through its education programs, GLT seeks to create visceral, immediate experiences for participants, asserting theater’s historic role as a vehicle for advancing the common good and helping people make the joyful and meaningful connections between classic plays and their own lives.
The company’s commitment to classic theater is magnified in the educational programs that surround its productions. Since its inception, GLT has had a strong presence in area schools, bringing students to the theater for matinee performances and sending specially trained actor-teachers to the schools for weeklong residencies developed to explore classic drama from a theatrical point of view. GLT is equally dedicated to enhancing the theater experience for adult audiences. To this end, GLT regularly serves as the catalyst for community events and programs in the arts and humanities that illuminate the plays on its stage. Great Lakes Theater is one of only a handful of American theaters that have stayed the course as a classic theater. As GLT approaches a decade in its permanent home at the Hanna Theatre, the company reaffirms its belief in the power of partnership, its determination to make this community a better place in which to live, and its commitment to ensure the legacy of classic theater in Cleveland.
1501 Euclid Ave., Suite 300, Cleveland, OH 44115 P: (216) 241-5490 | F: (216) 241-6315 | W: GreatLakesTheater.org
GreatLakesTheater.org
Great Lakes Theater’s fall 2017 production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Photo by Roger Mastroianni) Keri René Fuller as Esmeralda and Corey Mach as Quasimodo
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NEWS & NOTES Audience Accolades
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The Cleveland Critics’ Circle honored GLT with two awards for 2017: Best Actress – Musical (Keri René Fuller, The Hunchback of Notre Dame) and Best Actor – Musical (Alex Syiek, Hunchback). In addition, the Cleveland Jewish News awarded GLT company members Best Actor – Drama (Johnathan Dyrud, Hamlet), Best Actress – Musical (Keri René Fuller, Hunchback) and Best Actor – Musical (Corey Mach, Hunchback); and Scene Magazine recognized Laura Welsh Berg (Hamlet) and Joseph Hanreddy (A Midsummer Night’s Dream) for their outstanding work as actor and director respectively in The Best of Cleveland Theater in 2017. We’re blushing … but grateful!
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President’s Awards
Speaking the Speech
Classics On Tour
Each season, Great Lakes Theater’s board of trustees and staff recognize the extraordinary service, commitment and contributions of a select few team members with a GLT President’s Award. During our season’s ceremony which took place at our annual holiday party, Carol Dolan (trustee) and Chris Fornadel and Stephanie Reed (staff members) were bestowed the honor. Combined – in the community, with audiences and behind-the-scenes – they have dedicated over 20 years of service to Great Lakes Theater. We are grateful and inspired!
Teen orators take the stage! All winter, Great Lakes Theater’s education department has partnered with the Cleveland Branch of the EnglishSpeaking Union (ESU) to provide and present workshops and school contests prior to the annual ESU National Shakespeare Competition. This February, high school students from approximately 30 schools will converge on Westlake High School for the culminating regional event. The winner will compete at the national level in New York City, with a chance to visit the Globe Theatre in London!
Great Lakes Theater presents an exciting production of Mark Twain’s American classic, Huck Finn, geared toward elementary- and middleschool students. Two runaways team up for adventure, find freedom on the run, and narrowly escape a family feud, as they make their way down the “big river.” Adapted by local playwright Eric Schmiedl, this professionally produced touring play is designed to impart important social lessons and provide a memorable, literacy-based theatrical experience. Learn more about Huck Finn and catch a FREE performance. Visit GreatLakesTheater.org for details.
Photo: Roger Mastroianni
Great Lakes Theater
Cleveland’s Classic Company AT THE HANNA THEATRE
presents...
2018/19 season SUBSCRIBE & SAVE BIG!
The Smash Hit Feel-Good Musical
MAMMA MIA!
September 28 - November 11, 2018 / Hanna Theatre Music and lyrics by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus / Some songs with Stig Anderson Book by Catherine Johnson / Originally conceived by Judy Cramer / Based on the songs of ABBA
A Classic Romantic Comedy
PRIDE AND PREJUDICE October 5 - November 4, 2018 / Hanna Theatre
Based on the novel by Jane Austen / Adapted by Joseph Hanreddy and J.R. Sullivan
Northeast Ohio’s Favorite Holiday Tradition
A CHRISTMAS CAROL November 30 - December 23, 2018 / Ohio Theatre
By Charles Dickens / Adapted and originally directed by Gerald Freedman
Agatha Christie’s Gripping Courtroom Thriller
WITNESS FOR THE PROSECUTION February 15 - March 10, 2019 / Hanna Theatre By Agatha Christie
Shakespeare’s Uproarious Battle of the Sexes
THE TAMING OF THE SHREW March 29 - April 14, 2019 / Hanna Theatre By William Shakespeare
A Tony-Winning Rock ‘n’ Roll Tribute
MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET May 3 - 19, 2019 / Hanna Theatre Book by Colin Escott and Floyd Mutrux
216.640.8869 / GreatLakesTheater.org
Hanna Theatre | February 16 – March 11, 2018
Charles Fee Producing Artistic Director
Presents
DIRECTED BY
CHARLES FEE
Company
Andrew May*
Nick Steen*
GreatLakesTheater.org
WILLIAM GOLDMAN BASED ON THE NOVEL BY STEPHEN KING BY
Kathleen Pirkl Tague*
Movement/Special Effects Director Jason Tate Scenic Designer Gage Williams
Costume Designer Alex Jaeger Stage Manager Tim Kinzel*
Lighting Designer Paul Miller
Sound Designer Josh Schmidt
Assistant Stage Manager Nicki Cathro*
*Members of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States Originally produced on Broadway by Warner Theatre Ventures in association with Castle Rock Entertainment; and produced by Liz Glotzer, Mark Kaufman, Martin Shafer and Raymond Wu; Associate Producer Andrew Welch. World Premiere produced at Bucks County Playhouse, New Hope, PA (Jed Bernstein, Producing Director.) “MISERY is presented by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc., New York.”
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CAST OF CHARACTERS Paul Sheldon..............................................................................................Andrew May* Annie Wilkes...................................................................................Kathleen Pirkl Tague* Buster.......................................................................................................Nick Steen †*
at Playhouse Square
† Fight Captain * Members of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States
Visit the Great Lakes Theater
GIFT SHOP
in the Hanna Theatre Ticket Office.
Pick Up Great Gifts to Wear & Share! Unique Clothing | Inspired Novelties | Books & Scripts Gift Shop is open pre-show & during intermission.
WE BELIEVE IN
“We debate nearly everything. But what we agree on is the importance of supporting public broadcasting. ideastream is more than media to us; it’s our link to the world.” - Jim Simon & Craig Libman
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Find out more at ideastream.org/support
It’s time for a new identity. One that tells the story of creativity in Ohio and illustrates it.
Expression is an essential need. By better illustrating our story, we can better help you express yours.
Complete the story at oac.ohio.gov/identity.
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THE ARTISTIC COMPANY
at Playhouse Square
Andrew May* Paul Sheldon Eight seasons with GLT It’s the first time Andrew has trod the boards of the Hanna in eight years, and he is thrilled to be back. It’s also his first time working with Kathleen Pirkl Tague, an actor he has admired for years. Since leaving Cleveland, Andrew has received rave reviews off-Broadway for his performance of Jamie Tyrone in the Pearl Theatre’s A Moon for the Misbegotten, as Friedrich Mueller in the International Broadway tour of War Horse and in numerous regional theaters across the United States and Canada. Most recently, he has performed at Barrington Stage, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park and the Tony Awardwinning Utah Shakespeare Festival. Nick Steen* Buster Five seasons with GLT Nick is honored to be returning to the beautiful Hanna for his fifth season. His previous roles with the company include Oberon and Theseus in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Laertes in Hamlet, Mike Talman in Wait Until Dark, Lombard in And Then There Were None, Dumaine in Love’s Labour’s Lost, Max Halliday in Dial “M” for Murder, Sebastian in The Tempest and Clifford in Deathtrap. Nick received his BFA from the University of Evansville and MFA from A.C.T. Nick is on a journey together with the greatest fish a guy could ask for - <4 you Nicki. www.NickSteen.com Kathleen Pirkl Tague* Annie Wilkes Four seasons with GLT
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GLT: Richard III (Elizabeth), Hayfever (Judith); ISF, 13 seasons; U. Delaware REP, nine seasons, including God of Carnage (Veronica), Juno and the Paycock (Juno), Wit (Vivian Bearing). Delaware Theatre Company, Macbeth (Lady Macbeth); The Intiman
Theatre, Titus Andronicus (Tamora); Wilma Theater, Waiting for Nirvana; Walnut Street Theatre, Before Breakfast; Freedom Rep, Dutchman; Arden Theatre Company, Translations; Milwaukee Rep, War Stories. From the 20th Century: San Jose Rep, Anna Christie; Madison Rep, Our Country’s Good; American Players Theatre, A Midsummer Night’s Dream; Broadway Touring Company, Biloxi Blues. NYC: Edge Theatre, Equity Library Theatre. N.C. School of the Arts (BFA), U. Delaware (MFA).
UNDERSTUDIES Adam Graber, Nick Steen*, Brooke Turner
DIRECTORS Charles Fee Producing Artistic Director Director, Misery Sixteen seasons with GLT Directing credits at GLT: Hamlet, And Then There Were None, Dial “M” for Murder, Deathtrap, Blithe Spirit, Romeo and Juliet, The Two Gentlemen of Verona, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Twelfth Night, The Comedy of Errors, Macbeth, All’s Well That Ends Well, Hay Fever, The Importance of Being Earnest, Arms and the Man and The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged). Charles holds a unique position in the American theater as producing artistic director of three independently operated, professional theater companies: Great Lakes Theater in Cleveland, Ohio (since 2002); Idaho Shakespeare Festival in Boise, Idaho (since 1991) and Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival in Incline Village, Nevada (since 2010). His appointments have resulted in a dynamic and groundbreaking producing model for the companies, in which more than 60 plays have been shared since 2002. In 2009, Charles was honored to receive recognition for his leadership by the Cleveland Arts Prize as a recipient of the Martha Joseph Award. Other awards include The Mayor’s and Governor’s awards for Excellence in the Arts, Idaho. From 1988 to 1992, he held the position of artistic
Cleveland’s Classic Company at the Hanna Theatre, Playhouse Square
Shakespeare’s Towering Tragedy
By William Shakespeare Directed by Charles Fee
Mar. 29 - Apr. 15 | Hanna Theatre Macbeth is part of Shakespeare in American Communities, a national program of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest.
Off Broadway’s Groovy Retro-Hit Revue
Created by Larry Gallagher Directed by Victoria Bussert
May 4 - 20 | Hanna Theatre production sponsor:
TICKETS START AT $15!
•
STUDENTS SIT IN ANY SEAT FOR $13!
216.241.6000 | GreatLakesTheater.org Groups of 10+ save big!
CALL: 216.453.4457
season sponsors:
at Playhouse Square
director at the Sierra Repertory Theatre in California. He has also worked with The Old Globe, La Jolla Playhouse, the Milwaukee and Missouri repertory theaters, Actor’s Theatre of Phoenix and the Los Angeles Shakespeare Festival. In addition to his work with the companies in Ohio, Idaho and Nevada, Charles is active within the community. He has served as a member of the strategic planning committee for the Morrison Center, as producer of the FUNDSY Award Gala (’96, ’98 and 2000), and as producer of the 1996 Idaho Governor’s Awards in the Arts. Charles has served on the board of the Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce and as a member of the Downtown Rotary Club. He received his B.A. from the University of the Pacific and Master of Fine Arts from the University of California, San Diego. Along with his wife, Lidia and daughter, Alexa, Charles resides in Boise, Cleveland and Lake Tahoe — a feat that is only possible because of the incredible love and support of his family, and the generous communities he serves!
Jason Paul Tate Movement/Special Effects Director Two seasons with GLT Jason was born in Kentucky and is now a New York-based actor, director and choreographer, whose work has appeared on stage at Classic Stage Company, American Repertory Theatre, the Metropolitan Opera, Rattlestick Playwright’s Theatre, Ars Nova and The Lost Colony Outdoor Drama. He last worked with GLT as the movement director for Love’s Labour’s Lost, which also played at the Idaho Shakespeare Festival and Lake Tahoe Shakespeare. A graduate of Florida State University, Jason is a certified instructor with the Society of American Fight Directors and a proud member of SDC.
DESIGNERS Alex Jaeger Costume Designer Four seasons with GLT Alex designs costumes across the country. Credits include Deathtrap, Merry Wives of Windsor, The Taming of the Shrew for GLT;
BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS IN ACTING • Emphasis in classical drama • In partnership with Great Lakes Theater, Cleveland’s professional classical company
bw.edu/acting 275 Eastland Rd., Berea, OH 44017 (440) 826-2222
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Baldwin Wallace University does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, age, disability, national origin, gender or sexual orientation in the administration of any policies or programs.
YOU ARE INVITED!
Backstage
bash APRIL 21, 2018
HANNA THEATRE, PLAYHOUSE SQUARE
Enjoy…
AN ORIGINAL SHOW, CONCEIVED OF AND DIRECTED BY GREAT LAKES THEATER FAVORITE TOM FORD. THEN, JOIN US BACKSTAGE AND PARTY WITH OUR COMPANY OF ARTISTS! • FOOD STATIONS & OPEN BARS • • LIVE MUSIC & SURPRISE PERFORMANCES • • GAMES, RAFFLES, AUCTIONS & DANCING •
TICKETS & INFORMATION: 216.453.1067 GreatLakesTheater.org/event/BACKSTAGEBASH
at Playhouse Square
Two Sisters and a Piano for the Public Theatre; Mr. Burns for Guthrie Theatre; The Sneetches for Children’s Theatre Company, Minneapolis. Many productions for Oregon Shakespeare Festival, including A Streetcar Named Desire, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof; King Charles III for Pasadena Playhouse; The Nether for Kirk Douglas Theatre; Amadeus and others for South Coast Repertory; Arcadia, Major Barbara, Once in a Lifetime and others for A.C.T., San Francisco. Alex is also a frequent designer for the Magic Theatre and the Studio Theatre in D.C. Paul Miller Lighting Designer Four seasons with GLT GLT and ISF: My Fair Lady, King Lear and The Secret Garden. Broadway: Amazing Grace, The Illusionists, Legally Blonde, Freshly Squeezed and Laughing Room Only. Over 25 off-Broadway productions. 15 U.S. Tours. Regional: The Old Globe, Denver Center, D.C. Shakespeare, Chicago Shakespeare, Asolo Repertory, American Conservatory Theatre, Cleveland Play House, Pasadena Playhouse, Goodspeed Opera House. International: Stratford Festival, London’s West End, Vienna, Milan (Teatro alla Scala), Brazil, The Philippines, South Africa and China. Television: Live from Lincoln Center, numerous specials for Netflix, Showtime and Comedy Central, as well as every live performance from the internationally televised New Year’s Eve Celebration from New York’s Time’s Square for the last 19 years.
Josh Schmidt Sound Designer Two seasons with GLT At GLT: Love’s Labour’s Lost. As Composer/ Co-Author off-Broadway: A Minister’s Wife (Lincoln Center), ADD1NG MACH1N3 (Minetta Lane), Whida Peru (59E59), Midwestern Gothic (Signature, VA), Gift of the Magi (American Players Theatre, WI). As Composer/Sound Designer Broadway: Therese Raquin (Roundabout/Studio 54), House of Blue Leaves (Walter Kerr), Brighton Beach Memoirs (Nederlander). Regional: Over 200 productions across the country, including three seasons with Stratford Shakespeare Festival (Ontario, Canada), Philadelphia Theatre Company (PA), The Kennedy Center, Ford’s Theatre (Washington D.C.), Seattle Repertory Theatre (WA), Alley Theatre (Resident Artist Houston, TX); Arizona Theater Company, 15 seasons at American Players Theatre (Spring Green, WI) and many others. Gage Williams Scenic Designer Twelve seasons with GLT Previous designs for GLT include The Fantasticks, Twelfth Night, Macbeth, All’s Well That Ends Well, Amadeus, You Can’t Take It With You, The Importance of Being Earnest, The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged), Hamlet, Tartuffe, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Arms and the Man and Much Ado About Nothing. He has designed sets for notable regional theaters and opera companies, including Idaho Shakespeare Festival, Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, Salt Lake Acting
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classics on tour February 6 - March 3
Based on the novel The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain Adapted by Eric Schmiedl
WE’RE HITTING THE ROAD!
Great Lakes Theater is thrilled to launch a touring production for Ages 10+ and their families. Two runaways - a boy and a slave - teamup for adventure on the mighty Mississippi! Huckleberry Finn finds freedom on the run, out-thinking colorful con-men, narrowly escaping a family feud, and even passing as a girl as he and Jim make their way down the “big river.” On the journey, they learn lessons of integrity, dignity and friendship. At turns dramatic then hilarious, two performers and one storytelling troubadour play a dozen characters in this timeless tale.
s p r i ng sponsor:
JOIN US FOR A PERFORMANCE IN YOUR COMMUNITY!
GreatLakesTheater.org/ClassicsOnTour Interested in booking the touring production at your school or venue? Act fast! Availability is limited. Learn more: GreatLakesTheater.org/BookToday
Company, Actors Theatre of Phoenix, Childsplay, Pioneer Theatre Company and Utah Opera Company. For television, Art Director credits includes productions for ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, HBO, Showtime, ESPN, Disney and MTV.
STAGE MANAGEMENT
at Playhouse Square
Tim Kinzel* Stage Manager Eight seasons with GLT Tim has stage-managed 20-plus productions for Great Lakes Theater. Recent credits include A Christmas Carol, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, My Fair Lady, Hamlet and Forever Plaid. Tim has multiple Stage Management credits from Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, Idaho Shakespeare Festival, Playwrights Horizon, Cherry Lane Theater NYC and Houston’s Stages Repertory Theatre. Love to his family and friends. Cleveland native and diehard sports fan. Thank you for supporting the arts at Playhouse Square. GO CAVS!
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Nicki Cathro* Assistant Stage Manager Two seasons with GLT Nicki is overjoyed to be returning for her second season at the Hanna. Previously seen as a Production Assistant on Hamlet, The Hunchback of Notre Dame and A Midsummer Night’s Dream for Great Lakes Theater and Idaho Shakespeare Festival. Nicki earned her BFA in radio, television and film from the University of North Texas. She has worked primarily in film production and photography and is thrilled to return to her first love, tech theatre, alongside her true love Nick <4. For more information on her media company, please visit www. cavernmedia.com.
AUTHOR William Goldman William Goldman is one of the most influential and successful writers of his generation. Film credits include Masquerade, Harper, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Stepford Wives, All the President’s Men, The Princess Bride (based on his novel of the same name), Last Action Hero, The General’s Daughter, Marathon Man (based on his novel of the same name), and many, many others. He co-wrote two plays with brother James Goldman: Blood, Sweat, and Stanley Poole and A Family Affair. As a novelist, Goldman has penned several American classics including, but not limited to, Soldier in the Rain (1960), Father’s Day (1971), Magic (1976), The Color of Light (1984) and The Silent Gondoliers (1984). He has also written many articles for acclaimed publications on the topic of screenwriting and several non-fiction books including The Season: A Candid Look at Broadway (1969) and Adventures in the Screentrade: A Personal View of Hollywood and Screenwriting (1983). Awards: Academy Award, Writers Guild Award and British Academy Award for Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, 1969; Academy Award and Writers Guild Award, for All the President’s Men,1976. Education: Oberlin College, Ohio, B.A. 1952; Columbia University, New York, M.A. 1956
DONORS The trustees, staff and artistic company of Great Lakes Theater express our deepest gratitude to the hundreds of supporters of Cleveland’s Classic Company. The donors listed below and on the following pages made generous gifts to our Annual Fund between July 1, 2016 and June 30, 2017. “I can no other answer make but thanks.” Twelfth Night, Act III, Scene iii
Make a Contribution Great Lakes Theater served more than 130,000 students and adults last year through its Hanna and Ohio Theatre mainstage productions and education programs throughout northeast Ohio. This would not have been possible without the annual support of the hundreds of generous donors listed below. Please consider joining the Great Lakes Theater family by making a contribution to support Cleveland’s Classic Company. Visit the “Support Us” section of our website (GreatLakesTheater.org) or call us at (216) 453-1067 to learn more about our Membership and donation opportunities.
Sponsors: Company Sponsors $100,000 and above Cuyahoga Arts & Culture*** Lead Sponsors $50,000 to $99,999 The David & Inez Myers Foundation*** Ohio Arts Council*** The Kelvin & Eleanor Smith Foundation***
The George Gund Foundation*** The Kulas Foundation*** The John P. Murphy Foundation***
Sponsors $25,000 to $49,999 The Paul M. Angell Family Foundation* The Community Foundation of Lorain County*** The Martha Holden Jennings Foundation*** The Reinberger Foundation***
Season Sponsors:
Shakespeare in American Communities: National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest John & Barbara Schubert***
GreatLakesTheater.org
The Cleveland Foundation***
Media Sponsors:
Great Lakes Theater Business Alliance:
*3 – 5 consecutive years as a donor **6 – 9 consecutive years as a donor ***10 or more consecutive years as a donor
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THE SHAKESPEARE SOCIETY
at Playhouse Square
Annual Fund donors of $1,000 and above are members of Great Lakes Theater’s “Shakespeare Society” and are entitled to certain benefits, including invitations to special Society events and activities. For more information, contact Chris Fornadel at (216) 453-1067.
Avon Circle ($10,000 to $24,999)
Globe Circle ($2,500 to $4,999)
Folio Circle ($1,000 to $2,499)
The Abington Foundation** Eaton Corporation*** First Energy Foundation The GAR Foundation*** Jack & Mary Ann Katzenmeyer*** Janet E. Neary*** The Lubrizol Foundation*** Nordson Corporation Foundation** Don & Anne Palmer*** Tim & Lynn Pistell*** PNC* Georgianna T. Roberts*** The Shubert Foundation*** Thomas G. & Ruth M. Stafford***
Anonymous (2) Chuck & Bonnie Abbey** Walt & Laura Avdey** Dalia & Robert Baker*** Mitch & Liz Blair*** Glenn & Jenny Brown*** Mr. & Mrs. Homer D. W. Chisholm*** The George W. Codrington Charitable Foundation*** Gail Cudak & Thomas Young*** Timothy J. Downing & Ken Press* Charles, Lidia & Alexa Fee** Dianne V. Foley* Steve Gariepy & Nancy Sin*** Mr. & Mrs. Samuel Hartwell*** Paul R. & Denise Horstman Keen** Mary Elizabeth Huber William W. Jacobs*** Katie Kennedy & Doug White The Laub Foundation*** Victor C. Laughlin, M.D. Memorial Foundation Trust*** Mr. & Mrs. Donald J. Mayer*** Jack McGrath*** Katie McVoy & Justin Cernansky Donald W. Morrison*** Nicholas & Sue Peay*** Dr. Scott & Mrs. Judy Pendergast*** Mr. & Mrs. Michael J. Peterman*** Thomas A. Piraino & Barbara C. McWilliams** Prof. Alan Miles Ruben & Judge Betty Willis Ruben* Mr. & Mrs. Robert C. Ruhl*** Kim Sherwin** Sally J. Staley*** Arthur L. Thomas John and Lori Wheeler Kevin M. & Anne R. White** Robert & Emily Williams* Ms. Rebecca A. Zuti & Mr. Anthony D. DeCello**
Anonymous (1) Michelle R. Arendt*** Robyn & David Barrie*** John & Laura Bertsch** David & Carolyn Bialosky* Kim & Bart Bixenstine** Jack & Janice Campbell*** Beverly J. Coen** Ms. Leslie C. Dickson* Barry & Suzanne Doggett*** Dr. Howard Epstein The Gries Family Foundation*** Elizabeth Grove & Rich Bedell* Drs. Thomas & Cynthia Gustaferro Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Inc.*** Kenneth Karosy*** Faisal Khan & Angela DiCorleto Donna M. & Alex I. Koler The Milton A. & Charlotte R. Kramer Charitable Foundation* John J. and JoAnn D. Lane* Mr. & Mrs. William E. MacDonald III* Mr. & Mrs. Douglas McGregor Ms. Danielle M. Morris Ms. Karen Nemec** Mr. & Mrs. Patrick W. O’Connor** Mr. & Mrs. Wilmer M. Piper*** John & Norine Prim*** Ms. Ana G. Rodriguez Linda Schlageter*** Brit & Kate Stenson*** Christopher & Gail Steward Helen F. & Louis Stolier Family Foundation The Alvah Stone & Adele Corning Chisholm Memorial Fund Diana & Eugene Stromberg*** Gerald F. Unger*** Mary C. Warren** Mr. & Mrs. Thomas D. Warren Mr. & Mrs. Paul L. Wellener IV*** Julie Sabroff Willoughby Mr. Lee C. Zeiszler*
Stratford Circle ($5,000 to $9,999) The Eva L. & Joseph M. Bruening Foundation*** Mr. Todd M. Burger & Ms. Kristie Beck* Bill & Judie Caster** Carol Dolan & Greggory Hill** Richard & Evelyn Dolejs** Natalie Epstein*** Ernst & Young, LLP*** The Harry K. & Emma R. Fox Foundation*** The Giant Eagle Foundation** Diane Kathleen Hupp* Susan & John Lebold Mr. & Mrs. Leslie H. Moeller*** David P. Porter & Margaret K. Poutasse*** The Sherwin-Williams Company Laura & Alvin Siegal*** Paul A. and Sonja F. Unger Fund The Thomas H. White Foundation, a KeyBank Trust**
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*3-5 consecutive years as a donor. **6-9 consecutive years as a donor. *** 10 or more consecutive years as a donor.
THE LEGACY SOCIETY
Great Lakes Theater’s Legacy Society honors individuals, families, foundations and other generous donors that make gifts to Great Lakes Theater’s Endowment Fund or have made a provision for Great Lakes Theater through their estate plans. Please consider becoming a member of the growing list of generous Great Lakes Theater Legacy Society supporters and help ensure that classic theater endures for future generations in northeast Ohio by designating Great Lakes Theater a beneficiary in your will, trust or other estate plans.
“Evermore thanks.” Kathleen L. Barber* Marilyn* & Paul* Brentlinger Willard & Donna Carmel Mary* & Leigh Carter Natalie & Morton* Epstein Gerald Freedman GAR Foundation Edward S. Godleski Tom Hanks & Rita Wilson
Richard II, Act II, Scene ii
Mary Jane Davis Hartwell* Samuel S. Hartwell The Hershey Foundation Jack & Mary Ann Katzenmeyer Kate Lunsford Mary Anne* & Jack McGrath Janet & Bob* Neary James A . Nelson* Donald & Anne Palmer
Jean Z.* & John S.* Piety Tim & Lynn Pistell Professor Alan Miles Ruben & Judge Betty Willis Ruben The John Sherwin Family George* & Marjorie* Springer Thomas G. & Ruth M. Stafford Arthur L. Thomas Audrey* & Dick* Watts
*Deceased: The legacy of these generous donors lives on for future generations.
Gifts to the Great Lakes Theater Endowment Fund were received from the following donors between July 1 and December 31, 2017. Edward S. Godleski Janet & Bob* Neary Mary Jane Davis Hartwell* Jean Z.* & John S.* Piety David P. Porter & Margaret K. Poutasse in memory of Morton G. Epstein
LEAVE A LEGACY!
For more information regarding planned gifts, please contact Todd Krispinsky, Director of Institutional Advancement. (216) 453-4449 | tkrispinsky@greatlakestheater.org
at Playhouse Square
The following individuals made their first gift, returned as active donors or increased their gift to Great Lakes Theater’s Annual Fund between July 1 and December 31, 2017. The Great Lakes Theater family is grateful for your support!
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Dr. & Mrs. Peter & Kathy Alscher Mr. Peter Blohm & Mrs. Consuelo Molins Blohm V. Elizabeth Brown Barbara J. Burke Mr. & Mrs. Robert B. Charlick Ms. Joanne Clifford John & Donna Clifford Christopher & Nancy Coburn Mr. & Ms. James Collins Dr. & Mrs. Kevin D. Cooper Stan & Lisa Corwin Dr. & Mrs. Dale H. Cowan Ms. & Mr. M. Judith Crocker Mrs. Mary J. Decker Mr. & Mrs. John Doucette
Sustainers ($500 to $999) Anonymous (1) Jeffrey Boecker & Susan Iler Julia & Ben Brouhard* H.F. & J.C. Burkhardt*** Beverly & Bruce Cameron* Donald & Annamarie Chick*** Eileen Kennedy & Greg Cloyd Bruce & Maryellen Cudney* Carolyn & Charles Dickson*** Mary Dolan & David Haracz James Eschmeyer*** Evans Charitable Foundation Dale & Linda Gabor Janet & Patricia Glaeser*** Gary & Joanna Graeff* Virginia Hansen*** Mr. & Mrs. Donald Kimmel** Chris & Laura Larson Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin M. Lesh Eva & Rudolf Linnebach* Ken & Mary Loparo*** Mr. & Mrs. Thomas M. Lynch*** Mark & Barbara Mazzone* Francis & Viola McDowell** Helen & Harry Mercer** The Music and Drama Club Deborah L. Neale*** Doug Perkowski Mr. John Rampe Thomas & Helen Rathburn** Naomi G. & Edwin Z. Singer Family Fund, a supporting foundation of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland** Karl & Carol Theil Raymond Voelker* William Wilkinson
Gene & Patricia Ewald Mr. Joseph A. Ferritto Bob & Mia Graf Ms. Lisa Greb Ms. Kathy Grekco Lee & Peter Haas Mr. & Mrs. William Hasler Geoffrey Michael Heller Memorial Fund Ms. Eleanor W. Helper Tom & Luz Higgason Mark & Lynn Hofflund Dr. Randal N. Huff Ms. Elizabeth A. Irwin Dr. Steven & Lena Kanter Ursula Korneitchouk Pat Murphy & Mike Kupiec Mr. & Mrs. John J. Lane Eva & Rudolf Linnebach Mr. & Mrs. John S. Lupo
Mr. Alex Machaskee Prof. & Ms. James Marino Steven & Dolly Minter Mr. & Mrs. John C. Morley Mr. Ronald Mortus Ms. Brenda Norton Mr. & Mrs. John R. Pendergast Mary Perkins Mr. & Mrs. James M. Petras Mr. William Plesec Ms. Betsy R. Quinn Rick & Paula Reed Linda Schlageter Steve & Kathy Schultz Jeff & Beth Ann Sedam Mr. Bahman Y. Sharif Ms. Dana Snyder Mr. & Mrs. Dale M. Sroka
Mr. Arthur D. Stehlik & Mrs. Sherri L. Stehlik Christopher & Gail Steward Ms. Katherine StokesShafer Albert Stratton Ms. Margaret A. Svoboda Mr. & Mrs. Sean Swick Dr. Joanne M. Uniatowski Ryan Vidmar Ms. Kimberly A. Vivolo Mr. & Ms. Michael Wagner Mr. Adam Wilde Colleen Williams & Jim Persichitti Robert C. & Emily C. Williams Mr. Paul Wolansky Ms. Maxene Zion
Margaret & Loyal Wilson* Women’s Committee of Great Lakes Theater Festival*** Brian Wynne & Patrick Cozzens** Ms. Margaret E. Zellmer* Patrick M. Zohn*** John & Jane Zuzek***
John Greene* Robert T. Hexter Rick Hoch Mr. Herbert J. Hoppe, Jr. Robert & Linda Jenkins** Amy & Jeff Johnson* Bernie & Nancy Karr*** Ms. Joylen J. Kent* Charles King & Catherine Keating Bill & Susan Kirchner Bob & Nanci Kirkpatrick*** Ronald G. Kollar*** Stephen & Carolyn Kuerbitz Fred & Joann Lafferty*** Morton & Lola Litt* Anne R. & Kenneth E. Love** Jennifer & Peter Meckes* The Mersol Family*** David & Leslee Miraldi*** Steve Z. & Mary Gibbs Mitchell*** Dale Sr., Dale Jr. & Gayle Montgomery Frank Rausche Dr. Edward J. Rockwood*** Reinhold & Ginny Roedig*** Mrs. Sharon M. Rogers*** Otmar & Rota Sackerlotzky*** Paul Schumacher Dr. Howard Simon* Dr. & Mrs. Lynn A. Smith*** The Edward & Katherine Thomas Family Frank & Vicki Titas** Robert & Marti Vagi** Mr. & Mrs. James D. Vail** Carol Lee Vella*** James L. Wagner** Nancy-Anne Wargo* Dr. & Mrs. Gregory A. Watts**
Chris & Mary Weaver Mrs. Betty S. Weiss** Mr. John Wiedemann & Ms. Pamela Schnellinger* David Wildermuth Donald & Dorothy Zito*
Patrons ($250 to $499) The Thomas and Joann Adler Family Donor Advised Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland*** Joel & Teresa Andreani Thomas & Joan Baker* Mr. & Mrs. Benham S. Bates** Fred & Mary Behm*** Kathy Berkshire John & Jeannene Bertosa** Gary & Kay Bluhm** Bernice A. Bolek*** Bette Bonder & Patrick Bray** Richard & Mary Ann Brockett* Mr. & Mrs. Eric J. Carlson Tim & Cindy Carr* Ms. Megan Casserlie* Robert and Susan Conrad Dr. & Mrs. Kevin D. Cooper* Audrey DeClement*** Pete & Margaret Dobbins* Mr. & Mrs. L. William Erb* Jon & Mary Fancher** Ann & Harry Farmer* Mr. Joseph A. Ferritto Mary Eileen Fogarty*** Mr. & Mrs. Gerald R. Frei** Ted & Nancy Goble Mr. & Mrs. Richard S. Gray**
Associates ($125 to $249) Anonymous (5) Lori Adler** Ms. Nancy J. Arndt Dolores P. Bastaich Ms. Pamela Benson* Mr. & Mrs. Thomas W. Berges Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Beyer Roger Bielefeld** Martha & Wayne Bifano Denise Blanda Susan Bobey** John Bolton*** Ms. Dorothy F. Borer* Joanne R. Bratush*** James F. Brown Mike & Carole Brown* V. Elizabeth Brown** Larry & Andi Carlini** Mr. & Mrs. Lucien H. Case Jean McQuillan & Richard Christ*** John & Donna Clifford*** James Collins Rollin & Anne Conway** Stan & Lisa Corwin David & Gayle Cratty*** Daniel Divis Daniel & Joyce Dyer * Mr. & Mrs. Robert Eikenburg*** Robert Erikson
Dr. & Mrs. Ken Tomecki*** Dorothy Ann Turick Elizabeth Twohig Anne Unverzagt & Richard Goddard** Christine and Daniel Vento* Mrs. Barbara S. Walker Thomas M. Wladyka* Jeanne Wojciechowicz James & Sandra Wood** John & Dianne Young*
Friends ($75 to $124) Anonymous (2) Ms. Josephine B. Anderson Kimberley Barton Thomas D. Basco Brian & Teresa Bester Tom & Dorothy Bier Elizabeth A. Billings Dr. & Mrs. Dieter F. Bloser*** Phyliss M. Boggs Mr. & Mrs. Charles P. Bolton*** Dr. W. H. Boom & Ms. Anne L. Batzell Mr. Stanley C. Brandt & Ms. Mary K. Whitmer*** Susan Brenneman Barbara J. Burke** Kathy Caldwell Robert S. Carillio Dr. & Mrs. Dale H. Cowan* Samuel Cowling** Dr. Ben S. Curatolo Judith Darus* Lowell & Carole Davis*** Chris & Mary Ann Deibel*** Donna Douglas*** Virginia Dybicz The Eldridge Family Janice Evans** Douglas D. Farling Mr. & Mrs. Frank L. Field*** Daniel Fishwick Carmela Freeman Mr. & Mrs. Lou Galizio*** Marian Hancy** Jean Heller* Frank & Gerry Hoffert** Mark & Lynn Hofflund* Ron & Joanne Hulec*** William Ivancic** Marie Ivkanec* Thomas Jecker Mr. & Mrs. Joseph C. Kelley Dennis Kelly** Mr. Gilbert P. Kenehan* Samuel C. Kennell* Mr. Kenneth R. Kessler Mr. & Mrs. Albert Kirby Mr. & Mrs. Gregory G. Kruszka* Ms. Linda V. Lefkovitz* James M. Lewan James Marino Anne Martin Francis Martin Connie May
James L. Mayer Cathy J. McCall*** Rev. Edward E. Mehok*** Antoinette Miller*** Diane Moffett Mr. John M. Moss & Mrs. Karen J. Moss Kim Whitesel-Nakel Mr. and Mrs. Robert Neides Mark Norris Gerald Norton Maura O’Donnell-McCarthy Joan M. Oravec*** Meribeth Pannitto Peggy & Michael Partington*** Mr. Alan A. Pomiecko Larry & Susan Rakow* Judy & Clifford Reeves** The Reinker Family*** Mr. & Mrs. Gerald P. Rencehausen Peter E. Renerts Ms. Jacqueline Y. Rhodes** Robinson Family Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland* Mr. Mark J. Salling & Ms. Cindie Carroll Pankhurst*** Doris A. Schultz** Steve & Kathy Schultz** Linda Sebald* Randall & Sara Shaner Dr. Dave & Faye Sholiton* Ms. Sue N. Siefert Ms. Ellen J. Skinner Mary Slowey Alma L. Smith* Edward W. & Donna Rae Smith James Sonday James Spallino Gail Stroud Laura L. Sutera Ms. Elizabeth Swenson* Linda Taege Carol A. Vidoli*** Michael Wagner Tom Wagner & Malinda Smyth** Rev. & Mrs. David M. Walker*** Sharon & Yoash Wiener*** Todd Wilson Ms. Janet R. Wolf Arthur & Deborah Zinn* *3 – 5 consecutive years as a donor **6 – 9 consecutive years as a donor ***10 or more consecutive years as a donor
Gifts were received in honor of: Morton & Natalie Epstein Michael J. Peterman Sally J. Staley Betty S. Weiss
Gifts were received in memory of: Marcia Detwiler Morton G. Epstein Diana Fee Mary Jane Davis Hartwell Robert D. Neary
The Women’s Committee Formed in 1961, the committee is Great Lakes Theater’s longest standing volunteer support group. Members act as hosts for our actors, provide support in our administrative office and at events, and cheer us on throughout the season. If you would like to become a member, call Joanne Hulec at (216) 252-8717 for more information. Officers Barbara Cercone, President Janice Campbell, Vice Chair Viola McDowell, Recording Secretary Bernice Bolek, Corresponding Secretary Nanci Kirkpatrick, Treasurer
Matching Gift Corporations ArcelorMittal Eaton Corporation GE Foundation GlaxoSmithKline Foundation IBM Corporation The Lubrizol Foundation Nordson Corporation Foundation PNC Progressive Insurance Foundation Schneider Electric North America Foundation The Sherwin-Williams Company
GreatLakesTheater.org
Dr. & Mrs. Robert L. Fairchild David V. Foos*** Charles & Julia Gall** Mrs. Carla Gallagher* Mrs. Barbara J. Garris Deborah A. Geier*** Greg & Gail Gibson*** Virginia T. Goetz* Elaine H. Green Jean E. Gubbins** Tom & Kirsten Hagesfeld** Michael & Suzanne Harris* Curt & Karen Henkle** Robin Herrington-Bowen Mr. and Mrs. Douglas M. Hicks Kathy & Jamie Hogg*** Clyde A. Horn*** Mr. & Mrs. Robert L. Janson* Marilyn & Howard Karfeld*** Lauren Kawentel** William & Marion Kettering* Michael & Lynn Kleinman* Mr. Thomas Knox* Mr. & Mrs. Mark D. Kozel*** Jacob Kronenberg & Barbara Belovich*** Eleanor & Stephen Kushnick*** Leslie Lahr* Jennifer & Robert Larson* Mr.& Mrs. Brian Lawler* Gregory Leach* Gregory & Vickie Leyes* Thomas & Sheryl Love Mr. & Mrs. John M. Lovett* Brian & Renee Lowery** Robert & Beth MacMurray* Kimberly A. Mahoney Manubay Joshua K. Mayers Mr. & Mrs. Robert E. McDonald*** Bill & Marilyn Miller Roy & Cindy Moore*** Toni & Linda Moore** Ms. Barbara H. Nahra Tom & Mary Neff** Thomas Neff Robert & Margery Orth Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Patalon* Ms. Diane L. Pauley Brian Perry & Ka Pi Hoh* Ms. Mary L. Pollak* Andrew & Brenda Pongracz* Mr. & Mrs. Louis Pongracz** Ms. Bette M. Prendergast James & Susan Prince* Mr. & Mrs. James A. Saks** Donna Schuerger*** Donna Sheridan*** Richard Shirey* Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Slavin*** Marg Slesnick Anthony Smits Mr. & Mrs. John Southworth* William E. Spatz** Susan St. John** Kathlyn & Harry Stenzel*** Anita K. Stoll Mr. & Mrs. Timothy L. Sullivan** Mr. & Mrs. Edward J. Tatman*
Many companies, like the ones listed above, match all or a portion of their employees’ charitable giving. Is your employer a matching gift company? Find out by contacting your employer or the Great Lakes Theater Development Office at (216) 453-1067. Every effort is made to ensure that our donor records are current and correct. Please call the Development Office at (216) 453-4442 with questions or to report updates and revisions.
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TRUSTEES Chair
Thomas G. Stafford †
President
Timothy J. Downing
Secretary
Kim Bixenstine
Treasurer
at Playhouse Square
Walter Avdey
Trustees
Michelle Arendt Jennifer Armstrong Dalia Baker Gary Benz David L. Bialosky
Todd M. Burger * William Caster * Gail L. Cudak Carolyn Dickson † Leslie Dickson William B. Doggett † Carol Dolan * Dr. Howard G. Epstein Natalie Epstein *† Dianne V. Foley * Stephen H. Gariepy Lynn M. Gattozzi Derek Green Elizabeth A. Grove * Arthur C. Hall, III Samuel Hartwell * Mary Elizabeth Huber Diane Hupp
William W. Jacobs *† John E. Katzenmeyer † Denise Horstman Keen Kathleen Kennedy * Faisal Khan * John W. Lebold * William E. MacDonald III † Ellen Stirn Mavec † Mary J. Mayer John E. McGrath † Katie McVoy * Leslie H. Moeller Mike Mumford Janet E. Neary † Pamela G. Noble * Michael J. Peterman † Timothy K. Pistell † David P. Porter †
Georgianna T. Roberts † Ana Rodriguez John D. Schubert † Peter Shimrak † Sally J. Staley Diana W. Stromberg Jason Ronald Suslak Kristine M. Tesar Gerald F. Unger Thomas D. Warren Nancy Wellener Kevin M. White Julie Sabroff Willoughby Patrick Zohn Rebecca A. Zuti * Executive Committee † Life Trustee
STRATEGIC ALLIANCE In 2002, Great Lakes Theater (Cleveland, Ohio) and Idaho Shakespeare Festival (Boise, Idaho) conceived a unique, strategic producing alliance designed to maximize return on organizational investments, increase production efficiencies, create long term work opportunities for artists and share best practices. In 2010, Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival (Incline Village, Nevada) joined the collaborative — further contributing to the momentum of the revolutionary producing prototype's success. The long term results have been remarkable. The alliance's three independent, 501c3 regional theaters have shared over 50 jointly-created productions — each featuring long term, multi-city employment opportunities for artistic company members. This revolutionary producing model has realized its vision and exceeded expectations while simultaneously resulting in notable audience growth for each company.
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STAFF Leadership Charles Fee, Producing Artistic Director Bob Taylor, Executive Director
Management Team Director of Educational Services.................Kelly Schaffer Florian Production Manager................................Jeff Herrmann Director of Institutional Advancement.................Todd Krispinsky Director of Educational Programming...... Lisa Ortenzi
Artistic Artistic Associate..............................................Tom Ford
Education
Volunteers
Company Doctor.......Dr. Donald Ford & Cleveland Clinic Trinity High School Intern......................Maxwell Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neal Education Interns..........Hannah Gears, Elizabeth Tofig
Finance & Administration
Special Thanks
Manager of Finance & Administration...................Stephanie Reed
Arrow Video
Institutional Advancement Development Manager............................Chris Fornadel Audience Engagement Coordinator........ Jeremy Lewis Marketing & Communications Manager................................................. Kacey Shapiro Donor Relations Associate...............Elizabeth Steward
Production Assistant Production Manager...............Corrie Purdum Technical Director.......................................Mark Cytron Assistant Technical Director..........William Langenhop Master Carpenter.......................................Lindsay Loar Carpenter/Welder...............................Richard Haberlen Carpenters.......................... Val Kozlenko, Ralph Melari, Paul Miller, Gary Zsigrai Properties Master..............................Jessica Rosenlieb Assistant Properties Master............. Bernadine Cockey Props Artisan........................................Douglas Puskas
Great Lakes Theater is a member of the League of Resident Theaters (LORT) and operates under agreements with LORT, Actorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Equity Association, American Federation of Musicians, the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers, and the United Scenic Artists, which are unions representing professional actors, stage managers, musicians, stagehands, directors, choreographers, and designers, respectively, in the United States.
GreatLakesTheater.org
Education Outreach Associate................David Hansen School Residency Program Actor-Teachers................... Luke Brett, DeLee Cooper, Adam Graber, Tim Keo, Kimberly Martin, Zyrece Montgomery, Will Sanborn, Leah Smith
Costume Shop Manager.................Esther M. Haberlen Assistant Shop Manager/Draper....................Leah Loar First Hand...........................................Christina Spencer Crafts/Stitcher..............................................Zack Hickle Stitcher.............................................. Mackenzie Malone Overhire Stitchers.......... Rainie Jiang , Kerry McCarthy Wardrobe Supervisor/ Design Assistant...........................Colleen McLaughlin Wig Design...............................Wigs and Whiskers, LLC Master Electrician.................................... Tammy Taylor Electrician................................................. Greg Falcione Charge Scenic Artist....................................Ruth Lohse Scenic Artist........................................Justine Schneider Audio Supervisor.....................................Brian Chismar Stage Manager.............................................Tim Kinzel* Assistant Stage Manager......................... Nicki Cathro* Production Associate...................................Amy Essick Hanna Theatre Crew............Thomas Boddy, Chris Guy, Shaun Milligan, Nathan Tulenson
LORT
1501 Euclid Ave., Suite 300 Cleveland, OH 44115 P: (216) 241-5490 F: (216) 241-6315 W: GreatLakesTheater.org
Playbill Editor: Linda Feagler For advertising information, please contact Matthew Kraniske: 216-377-3681
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PLAYHOUSE SQUARE HISTORY The GE Chandelier
There Goes the Neighborhood!
Officially the world’s largest outdoor chandelier, the 20-foot tall GE Chandelier is adorned with 4200 crystals. To find out how it was made, visit the Playhouse Square YouTube channel.
One of many fascinating items to be found in the book Playhouse Square: An Entertaining History deals with the infamous John Wilkes Booth. Booth performed locally at the old Academy of Music, which was one of the first drama schools in the country and was located at 1371 W. 6th Street. It was at that Cleveland Academy where he would play his last role prior to performing at Washington D.C.’s Ford Theatre where he would assassinate President Lincoln. (Might history have been changed if the Academy had held over Booth’s play for an extended run?)
The 1870s ushered in the golden age for Euclid Avenue as the street became a stretch of grand mansions, with grounds often extending as far as Lake Erie, and stately elm trees arching over the avenue. Called Millionaire’s Row, it was the address where all the best families lived. But by Cleveland’s Centennial in 1896, Euclid Avenue residents were likely muttering, Well, there goes the neighborhood! as the dirt street was paved with sandstone, and businessmen began to buy up and tear down the mansions and towering elms to make way for commercial ventures. Streetcar lines on the once totally residential stretch hastened the creation of a commercial district, forcing wealthy families to move even farther east on Euclid Avenue. In another 30 years, the district would see the birth of the five main theaters that would eventually become Playhouse Square.
Connor Palace Trivia
KeyBank State Theatre Trivia
Before the days of clothes dryers, touring performers were often forced to pull stilldamp clothes off the drying line when it was time to pack and leave. During the vaudeville era, the Connor Palace (known then as the Palace) became known as one of the most performer-friendly venues in the country because of its many backstage amenities, one of which included a drying room. In this large room, wet clothes could be hung and hot air was continuously blown into the area to hasten the drying time.
The stage of the KeyBank State Theatre is so large that a typical high school gymnasium (complete with basketball court and bleachers) could easily fit on stage. As another point of comparison, three of the Ohio Theatre stages could fit onto the State’s stage.
at Playhouse Square
A Change in History?
Singers’ Secrets
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Repeat three times: Performer packs pickle for perfect pipes. Singer Anita Baker surprised backstage workers during her sold out shows by keeping an ample supply of pickle juice in her dressing room — using it to gargle! (No report as to whether Anita acquired the pickle practice during her two pregnancies.) Likewise, another unusual gargling agent was the preference of singer Millie Jackson who required a certain imported beer as her gargle-of-choice.
Hanna Theatre Trivia Since its opening in 1921, the Hanna Theatre has been the site of two world premieres: Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Me and Juliette in 1953 and, in 1974, Odyssey by Michel Legrand starring Yul Brynner. Another first occurred in 1937, when Gilbert and Sullivan’s first Cleveland-staged opera was performed at the Hanna by the D’Oyly Carte Company from London.
Connor Palace: A Three Stooges Favorite In his biography, Moe Howard & The Three Stooges, Moe Howard wrote about the plight of dressing rooms on the road. Although dressing rooms were usually spartan at best and a hovel at worst, Howard had nothing but praise for the Connor Palace (known then as
the Palace Theatre): “This theater was built without missing a thought for the actors’ comfort. The Palace was beautiful not only outside and in the auditorium, but also backstage. Most impressive was the second floor, which sported a regulation-size pool table, chess tables, comfortable chairs, an ice machine and soft drinks, playing cards, cigars — it had all the facilities of a private club. In the basement was a laundry room. There was even a nursery for youngsters. Best of all were the dressing rooms, heavily carpeted with mirrored walls and make-up tables. They had everything in them, right down to padded coat hangers.”
KeyBank State Theatre Trivia
Kennedy’s Cabaret Trivia The bar in Kennedy’s (the lower level cabaret space accessed by way of the Ohio Theatre lobby), might be familiar to Cleveland oldtimers. The former home of the bar was the Elegant Hog Saloon when the tavern was located on Buckeye Road.
In 1920 as the Loew’s chain anticipated building in the area that would come to be known as Playhouse Square, it was discovered there wasn’t sufficient room to build two theaters side by side in the available space. Since it was important that the proposed theater marquees be located on Euclid Avenue, an architectural plan was devised. Even though the KeyBank State Theatre would be completed and open 21 months before the Connor Palace, it was decided to build the State behind the Connor Palace. This led to the construction of the State’s 320-foot-long lobby, reported to be the longest theater lobby in the world. The Ohio Theatre would then be built on the other side of the State, giving all three theaters the desired Euclid Avenue marquee frontage.
What Would It Cost to Build Them Today? Even though the Connor Palace is not the largest of the Playhouse Square venues, it was the most costly to build ($3.5 million) by the time it premiered on Nov. 6, 1922. The largest theater, the State, (opened Feb. 5, 1921) was built at a cost of $2 million; the Ohio (Feb. 14, 1921) also cost $2 million, and the Allen’s costs totaled $1.9 million when it opened April 1, 1921. (Exact building costs for the Hanna Theatre — which opened March 28, 1921 — have yet to be uncovered.)
GreatLakesTheater.org
Above the fireplace at the rear of the KeyBank State Theatre auditorium, an original mural hangs despite its near-tragic loss. Removed from the wall in the early 1970s prior to the scheduled demolition of the venue, the mural eventually turned up in the basement of a piano store and was repurchased by Playhouse Square for $200. The recovered mural was badly torn, having originally been painted on burlap then glued to the wall. The challenge of restoring the artwork fell to the Theater District’s Bonfoey Company. Artisans sanded the glue from the burlap and attached the cleaned mural to canvas via beeswax. The next step was to clean and restore the work where needed. A stretcher for the canvas had to be custom-made. To eliminate tears and wrinkles, the stretcher was designed to expand and contract with the theater’s climactic changes and held together with springs (no nails or screws). It took Bonfoey employees 18 months to restore the painting at a cost of $8,500. Although the creator of this mural is unknown, it is suspected to be Italian artist Sampitrotti, who had painted three murals for the original Ohio Theatre lobby. (Those murals were later destroyed in the Ohio’s 1964 lobby fire.)
World’s Longest Lobby Explained
A Phoenix from the Ashes In 1964, the Ohio Theatre lobby and auditorium were destroyed by fire. When the fledgling Playhouse Square organization restored the spaces in 1982, funding and time constraints made it possible only for the auditorium to be fully restored. Thanks to a gift from the George Gund Foundation, the lobby was re-created in its original splendor in 2016. You can watch a documentary about the project, “Restoring the Legacy,” on Playhouse Square’s YouTube channel.
Re-Creating History We call the completed Ohio Theatre George Gund Foundation Lobby project a “re-cre-
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ation” rather than a restoration. Why? There was nothing left to restore after a 1964 fire destroyed the space. To reproduce the lobby’s original 1921 splendor, architects, restoration specialists and Playhouse Square staff conducted exhaustive research of the original drawings by architect Thomas Lamb, photo archives and a few remaining bits of ornamental plaster detail to gain a thorough understanding of the space and inform the plans for re-creating the lobby.
at Playhouse Square
Broadway to Buildings Where do the arts and real estate go handin-hand? At Playhouse Square, of course! As the theaters began to be restored in the early 1980s, it was thought that developers would step in to build and open businesses around them. When that didn’t happen, Playhouse Square began to steward development of the surrounding neighborhood. In 1999, Playhouse Square became the first performing arts center with a real estate services division, which manages the one million square feet of property owned by the organization and another 1.5 million square feet outside the theater district. Other performing arts centers have since looked to our expertise as a model.
YPs Take the Lead Best known as the masterminds behind the annual Jump Back Ball benefit, Playhouse Square’s young professionals group – Partners – was formed in 1991. Since then, hundreds of young professionals engage with Playhouse Square each year to build leadership skills, raise funds and volunteer in support of our not-for-profit mission, enjoy shows together, network and have fun!
Keeping Up the KeyBank State Theatre
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First restored more than 30 years ago, the KeyBank State Theatre was repainted from the street to the proscenium in 2015. The new, cohesive color palette showcases the beauty and craftsmanship of the nearly 100-year-old theater. It took 25 painters 12,500 hours and 595 gallons of paint in 15 different colors to complete the project, which also included 6000 sheets of new
metal leafing in the auditorium dome and the application of a historically accurate wall-covering design. While the theater was dark, its lighting fixtures and restrooms received major upgrades.
What’s in a Logo? The Playhouse Square logo we use today – a tilted burgundy square with a capital P in its center – was introduced in 2008 to capture the enduring spirit of entertainment and excitement. Each of the logo’s graphic elements has meaning: the exclamation point with a star in the “P” symbolizes excitement and innovation; the swirl in the “P” represents creativity and forward motion; the tilted square symbolizes Playhouse Square as a destination; and the burgundy color gives nod to the color scheme of our historic theaters.
Going Green While red is the color most often associated with theaters, Playhouse Square is making efforts to go “green.” You will find receptacles for recycling paper, plastic and cans, along with those designated specifically for the program you’re currently reading, throughout the complex. Lighting fixtures are being switched to LED for increased energy efficiency. And the Playhouse Square administrative office is making strides towards going paperless.
Patterns in Plaster As you walk through the theaters, you may notice various patterns within the plaster decoration. Common are dentil, lamb tongue, rope and rosettes. Other patterns you may see have been associated with certain meanings since they were first used hundreds or even thousands of years ago, such as the acanthus leaf (immortality), egg and dart (life and death), and the palm leaf, first used in ancient Egypt as a reference to the Nile River. In the KeyBank State Theatre, if you look closely and carefully, you can find ox skulls, which were believed to offer protection from natural elements. And throughout the theaters, you will find griffins, mythical creatures thought of as guardians.
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PLAYHOUSE SQUARE GUEST SERVICES Guest Assistance For questions or service that may provide a quality, entertaining experience, please see the House Manager on duty. A RedCoat usher can direct you to their office location.
at Playhouse Square
We Love Hearing From Our Guests Your feedback is important. For matters that are not immediate or for additional questions you may have, please access our online comment form at playhousesquare. org/contact-us. We read and share all comments with the staff and meet often to discuss how we can improve upon your experience at Playhouse Square. You may also find us on Facebook at facebook.com/playhousesquare, or follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/playhousesquare.
Beware of Ticket Scalpers Buy your tickets ONLY from the Playhouse Square Ticket Office, at playhousesquare. org, by phone at 216-241-6000 or your licensed group/travel leader. (We cannot guarantee validity or admittance for tickets purchased elsewhere, nor can we issue replacement tickets if they are lost or stolen). Help us keep ticket prices affordable and fair for everyone.
Service for Our Guests with Special Needs Large type programs and wireless headsets are available in the House Managerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office.
Camera Policy Cameras, including cameras on cell phones and other personal handheld devices, audio/ video tape recorders and flash photography are strictly prohibited.
Emergency Phone Number In emergency situations, family members or babysitters may call 216-771-5537 (evening hours) or 216-771-4444 (daytime hours) should they need to get a message to a guest in our theaters.
Cell Phones The experience of a live performance can be ruined by the interruption of ringtones, vibrating phones or conversation. The magic of a darkened theater can be disrupted by the light of someone text messaging as well. Please be considerate to others and remember to turn off your cell phone for the duration of the show.
Thank You
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Playhouse Square gratefully acknow ledges the people of Cuyahoga County for their historical support to theater restoration, upkeep and programming, as well as through their ongoing contributions through Cuyahoga Arts and Culture.
FEB./MAR. AT PLAYHOUSE SQUARE OUTCALT/ HELEN/ ALLEN ALLEN ALLEN Sunday
Marie and Rosetta Shen Yun
HANNA
Monday
KENNEDY’S
Tuesday
Marie and Rosetta Stomp
CONNOR KEYBANK US BANK WESTFIELD PALACE STATE PLAZA STUDIO
OHIO
Wednesday
Marie and Rosetta Stomp
Thursday
Friday
FEBRUARY
Saturday Flanagan’s Wake Marie and Rosetta
Marie and Rosetta Kathleen Madigan
Flanagan’s Wake Marie and Rosetta My Favorite Murder Men/Mars Women/ Venus
Shen Yun
Marie and Rosetta Stomp
Flanagan’s Wake Marie and Rosetta Stomp Paw Patrol Live! Cleveland Jazz Orchestra
Flanagan’s Wake Marie and Rosetta Stomp Paw Patrol Live!
Flanagan’s Wake Riverdance Misery
Flanagan’s Wake Riverdance Misery Healing of Magic Workshop The Invisible Hand Naach di Cleveland
Men/Mars Women/ Venus
1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Marie and Rosetta Stomp Paw Patrol Live!
Riverdance
Riverdance
Riverdance
The Invisible Hand
Misery The Invisible Hand Emotional Creature
The Invisible Hand
Misery The Invisible Hand The Price is Right Live MUSICAL THRONES: A Parody of Ice and Fire
Misery The Invisible Hand MUSICAL THRONES Emotional Creature
Misery The Invisible Hand Emotional Creature NPR Politics Podcast Live
Misery The Invisible Hand Emotional Creature The 27th Annual Jump Back Ball
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MARCH
Misery The Invisible Hand Emotional Creature Darius & Twig The Musical Box
Flanagan’s Wake Misery The Invisible Hand Emotional Creature Darius & Twig
Flanagan’s Wake Misery The Invisible Hand Emotional Creature
25 26 27 28 1 2 3 Rent The Invisible Hand The Gruffalo Steve Winwood
Rent Misery The Invisible Hand The Gruffalo
Rent Misery The Invisible Hand The Gruffalo
Rent Flanagan’s Wake Misery The Invisible Hand The Gruffalo Neil Gaiman
Rent Flanagan’s Wake Misery The Invisible Hand The Gruffalo Rain - A Tribute to the Beatles
Rent Misery The Invisible Hand The Gruffalo
Rent
Rent
Rent An Evening with Matthew Desmond
Rent Flanagan’s Wake John Mulaney
Rent Flanagan’s Wake Che Malambo
Rent Bubble Guppies Live: “Ready to Rock”
Rent
Misery The Invisible Hand Emotional Creature
GreatLakesTheater.org
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Riverdance Misery The Invisible Hand Festival of Laughs
4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Rent What Do You Do With An Idea?
Rent
Rent Flanagan’s Wake CSU Spring Dance Concert
Rent Flanagan’s Wake CSU Spring Dance Concert Maureen McGovern
Fifth of July Macbeth
Fifth of July Macbeth
18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Rent “Weird Al” Yankovic
Fifth of July
Fifth of July Macbeth
25 26 27 28 29 30 31 New shows are announced every week. Sign up for the Playhouse Square newsletter at playhousesquare.org to get advance notices by email!
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