BRAVEBILL Established 1969
A Celebration of 50 YEARS of JUSTIN-SIENA MUSICAL THEATRE
1969 – 2019 1
2018–19 Arts Season BRAVEBILL Established 1969
BRAVEBILL Established 1969
BRAVEBILL Established 1969
BRAVEBILL Established 1969
O SOULY NIGHT I N S T R U M E N TA L W I N T E R C O N C E R T
THAT'S CHRISTMAS TO ME WINTER CHORAL CONCERT
Our Town October 25-28
O Souly Night Instrumental Concert
That’s Christmas to Me Choral Concert
ComedySportz High School League®
December 1
December 8
January 24–27
Encore Spring Musical
Spring Concert Instrumental & Choral
Visual Art Show Gasser Gallery Opening:
March 15-24
April 6
April 30
Annual Student Juried/Student curated
Exhibition
Napa Valley Museum
Yountville March 9 - April 28 Open Wednesday to Sunday
11 am - 4 pm
The Upside Of Down
Awards Ceremony and Celebration: April 28 from 2 pm - 4 pm
Napa Valley Museum, 55 Presidents Circle Yountville CA, 94599
SPECIAL EXHIBIT: The Justin-Siena Student Curatorial Team planned, juried, designed and installed 30 student works of art. This exhibit gives high school students across five counties the opportunity to apply higher order thinking, by engaging in the curatorial practices of collecting and organizing of artworks and sharing the collection with the community. Napa Valley Museum Exhibit Celebration & Awards Ceremony April 28, 2019 | 2 – 4 pm
presents
A Celebration of 50 YEARS of JUSTIN-SIENA MUSICAL THEATRE Musical Direction by VIVIAN BAYUBAY McLAUGHLIN Choreography by LISA CLARK SCHMELING Directed by JAMES THOMAS BAILEY
March 15 — March 24, 2019
REMINDERS: We kindly remind you to silence and stow all mobile phones and electronic devices. Also, please note that flash photography is not permitted for the safety of our performers. There will be one fifteen-minute intermission. Thank you for supporting JUSTIN-SIENA Theatre, and please enjoy the show!
Justin-Siena Theatre is proud to be the
Resident Theatre Affiliate of the
NOTES
from the Director
Welcome to Encore! Encore is a celebration, not only of Justin-Siena Theatre’s 50th Anniversary, but of musical theatre itself. Tonight, you’ll see 35 musical numbers from over 20 productions. When was the last time you got to watch an entire show of “greatest hits?” It has been a tremendous undertaking, but what fun! Perhaps we’ll perform one of your favorites, or even better, introduce you to a musical you’ve never seen before. This “original” production was not without its challenges. I am especially grateful to our talented costume designer Sylvia Gregory and her crew, for the countless hours it took to create hundreds of costumes. I hope you’ll take a few moments to read through this program which marks the years and the success of the Justin-Siena Theatre program. It is with enormous pride that we not only present our current students (who have worked tirelessly), but so many of our talented alumni who have returned for an Encore—to recreate their roles from when they were at Justin-Siena! Their eagerness to participate shows the impact Justin-Siena Theatre made in their lives. While many of our students have indeed gone on to professional careers on Broadway, television, and more, the impact of theatre education resonates just as deeply for those whose lives follow different paths. As students endeavor to learn to act, to be involved in the many aspects of theatre, and to learn to entertain audiences with the art and craft of theatre, they gain understanding of themselves and others. Theatre education emphasizes appreciating diversity, making informed decisions, and expressing individual vision. It teaches real-world skills in collaboration, cooperation, innovation, and discipline. And, it creates lifetime memories and friendships. Many of those friendships are back on stage tonight. Thank you to our wonderful alums! There are four alumni who continue to make enormous contributions to our theatre program. Graham Terry ’03, orchestrated all of the music in our show. In addition, he plays violin in our pit, and even appears on stage in Encore. This show could not have been realized without his tremendous talent. Vivian Bayubay McLaughlin, our Musical Director, is also an alumna of our program and has appeared on Broadway. As a Disney Channel celeb, she is a childhood hero to many. She, too, will appear on stage tonight, in addition to conducting our orchestra. By the way, Vivian was also Justin-Siena’s Director of Theatre for a few years, so she knows the challenges. We have collaborated for the last eight years, and it has been a joy. In addition to acting as our resident technical director and lighting designer, Tom Durante ’93 finds time to be the chairman of Justin-Siena’s Board of Trustees. He continually gives 2
back to his alma mater with his expertise and talent, and his creativity is beautifully realized on stage tonight. I am grateful for his constant support, and proud that Tom is our 50th Anniversary Honoree at our Theatre Gala on March 17. Well deserved! Finally, I’d like to offer special recognition to our choreographer Lisa Clark Schmeling ’86. Lisa has been choreographing here since she was a student, and her choreography is smart, challenging, and always exciting. She has touched more productions than perhaps anyone—in fact, most of the alumni performing tonight were in Justin-Siena shows choreographed by Lisa. About fifty percent of our young cast walks in the door saying, “I can’t dance!” and a few months later they’re doing something they never thought they could do. Lisa is demanding, inspiring and fiercely funny. I deeply respect both her artistry and her skill as an educator, and am very grateful for our collaboration. I’d like to dedicate this production to her. My only regret about this production is that I couldn’t get Lisa back on stage, recreating her role as Bloody Mary in South Pacific. Ask her to perform a number for you. I know she will appreciate it.
Enjoy the show.
JAMES THOMAS BAILEY
JUSTIN-SIENA THEATRE 50th Anniversary Honoree On the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of the JustinSiena Theatre program, we recognize Tom Durante, from the Class of 1993, for his tireless dedication, presence, and support of the performing arts at Justin-Siena High School. As a Lasallian Catholic school committed to quality education and service, we find Tom’s servant leadership exemplary to the students entrusted to our care. Through his artistic and technical contributions at Justin-Siena, has touched the hearts and opened the minds of countless students, inspiring many to pursue careers in the technical aspects of theatre. In recognition of the impact he has had on countless Justin-Siena performers and theatre technicians, we are honored to celebrate a legacy which Tom continues to build on today through his constant involvement in and care for the entire Justin-Siena community.
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ENCORE Jeremiah Alexander + Alexandra Antenen Emily Barba Sarah Barba + Carlo Bartalotti Matthew Baumann Libby Birkbeck Isabella Bonzani + Chloe Brudney Genesis Celaya Jason Celaya + Morgan Dalcamo + Linh Do Tiffany Dreesen Natalie Ervin Marianne Fernandez Alexandra Gouveia + Sarah Green Satya Green-Cardona + Feras Halabi + Melissa Hallam + Natalie Han Lucy Harrington Sarena Hiddleson Reese Hill Sidney Horne James Huber + Mia Johnson
STUDENT CAST Emma Jane Knigge + Juliana Kunst + Benjamin Levy Bryce Mayo + Julie McCaffrey Rose McGovern + Chantelle Mendoza Lauren Mispagel Claire Morlet Ines Moser Alegra Negrete + Kaitlin O’Neill Julia Oliveira Daniela Radovan + Natalie Riddick + Bianca Rubio Garcia Jadyn Satten Gianna Say Harrison Schaufel + Amina Schnebelt + Patrizia Tandinco + Yuguo Tang Taylor Undercoffler Daniela Villaseùor + Shawnee Wallace Lindsey Walthard Tiffany Wang
+ Member of the International Thespian Society, the honor society for high school theatre students. 4
ENCORE
ALUMNI CAST
James Day ’72
Louis Pierotti ’72
Aaron Fidler ’05
Kristin Clark Seefeldt ’89
Anthony Hutchinson ’85
Michael Starr ’10
Lisa LaFontaine ’87
Graham Terry ’03
Chris Marks ’13
Ellen Toscano ’01
Vivian Bayubay McLaughlin
Mikayla Weiner ’13
Annemarie Mendonsa ’12
Louis Pierotti ’72 (left) was in the very first JST production of My Fair Lady in 1969 and in Encore he plays Professor Henry Higgins in a number from My Fair Lady—an homage to our beginnings. He is joined by Lauren Mispagel ’20, singing the part of Eliza Doolittle. Lisa La Fontaine ’87 (right), who played Dorothy in the 1987 production of The Wiz is joined by Sarah Barba ’19 who will be playing Dorothy in Encore and doing a song from The Wiz. Lisa returns to the stage in Encore to reprise her solo “Turn Back O Man” from her 1989 performance in Godspell.
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ENCORE ACT I PIPPIN
Music and Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, Book by Roger O. Hirson. Bob Fosse, who directed the original Broadway production, also contributed to the libretto.
Magic to Do
The Ensemble
With You (dance) Pippin 2011
Featuring Reese Hill, Mia Johnson, Juliana Kunst, Chantelle Mendoza, Claire Morlet, Julia Oliveira, Natalie Riddick, Harrison Schaufel
MY FAIR LADY
Book and Lyrics by Alan J. Lerner, Music by Frederick Loewe
The Rain in Spain
Featuring Lauren Mispagel as Eliza, Louis Pierotti ’72 as Henry Higgins, and James Day ’72 as Colonel Pickering
Ascot Gavotte
Featuring Matthew Baumann as Freddy Einsford-Hill and Lauren Mispagel as Eliza Doolittle, Melissa Hallam, Rose McGovern, My Fair Lady 1969 Daniela Radovan, Sarena Hiddleson, Morgan Dalcamo, Bianca Rubio, Ines Moser, Claire Morlet, Libby Birkbeck, Kelly Tang, Sidney Horne, Julie McCaffrey, Isabella Bonzani, Daniela Villaseñor, Natalie Riddick, Emma Jane Knigge, Jeremiah Alexander, Jason Celaya, Harrison Schaufel, Benjamin Levy, Carlo Bartalotti, Feras Helabi, James Huber, Bryce Mayo
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OKLAHOMA!
Book and Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, Music by Richard Rodgers
I Cain’t Say No
Featuring Shawnee Wallace as Ado Annie
Oklahoma 1977
ANNIE GET YOUR GUN
Music and Lyrics by Irving Berlin, Book by Dorothy Fields and Herbert Fields
You Can’t Get a Man with a Gun
Featuring Lucy Harrington as Annie Oakley
Anything You Can
Featuring Lucy Harrington as Annie Oakley, Jason Celaya (3/15, 3/23) and James Huber (3/16, 3/17, 3/22, 3/24) as Frank Butler
SOUTH PACIFIC
Book and Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, Music by Richard Rodgers
There is Nothing Like a Dame
Featuring Jeremiah Alexander as Luther Billis and the men
I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Out of My Hair
Arrangement from A Grand Night for Singing Featuring Rose McGovern as Nellie Forbush, Sarah Barba, Patrizia Tandinco, Lau- South Pacific 1983 ren Mispagel, Marianne Fernandez, Alegra Negrete, Lucy Harrington, Juliana Kunst, Natalie Riddick and Shawnee Wallace
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ENCORE WEST SIDE STORY
Book by Arthur Laurents, Music by Leonard Bernstein, Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. Original production Directed and Choreographed by Jerome Robbins
Dance at the Gym The Ensemble
Tonight West Side Story 1990
Featuring Vivian Bayubay McLaughlin, reprising her role as Maria from JustinSiena’s 1990 production
THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE
Lyrics and Libretto by W.S. Gilbert, Music by Arthur Sullivan
I Am the Very Model of a Modern Major-General Featuring Harrison Schaufel and the Ensemble
GODSPELL
Music and Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, Book by John-Michael Tebelak
Turn Back O Man
Featuring Lisa LaFontaine, reprising her role from Justin-Siena’s 1987 production
All for the Best
Featuring Feras Halabi, Jadyn Satten, Carlo Bartalotti on guitar and the Ensemble
SINGING IN THE RAIN
Screeplay by Betty Comden and Adolph Green, Songs by Arthur Freed and Nacio Herb Brown | Based on the Metro-Goldwin-Mayer film by special arrangement with Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures, Inc.
Singing in the Rain
Singin’ in the Rain 2010 8
Featuring Benjamin Levy as Don Lockwood and Reese Hill, Mia Johnson, Juliana Kunst, Chantelle Mendoza, Claire Morlet, Julia Oliveira, Natalie Riddick, Harrison Schaufel
LES MISERABLES
Book by Alain Boublil, Claude-Michel Schรถnberg, Music by Claude-Michel Schรถnberg, Lyrics by Jerbert Kretzmer
On My Own
Featuring Marianne Fernandez as Eponine
Les Miserables 2009
GREASE
Music and Lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey
Summer Nights, Greased Lightning, Beauty School Drop-out, Born to Hand Jive, We Go Together Featuring Natalie Riddick as Sandy, Bryce Mayo as Danny, Carlo Bartalotti as Teen Angel, Jadyn Satten as Hand Jive Soloist, and the Ensemble
Grease 1986
INTERMISSION 9
ENCORE ACT II LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS
Book and Lyrics by Howard Ashman, Music by Alan Menken
Somewhere That’s Green
Featuring Kristin Clark Seefeldt ’89, reprising her role as Audrey from Justin-Siena’s 1988 production
Suddenly, Seymour (3/15 - 3/17) Little Shop of Horrors 1988
Featuring Kristin Clark Seefeldt ’89 and Michael Starr ’10, reprising his role as Seymour from Justin-Siena’s 2007 production
PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
Lyrics by Richard Stilgoe and Charles Hart, Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber
Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again
Featuring Annemarie Mendonsa ’13, reprising her role as Christine from Justin-Siena’s 2011 production
Phantom of the Opera 2011
EVITA
Lyrics by Tim Rice, Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber
Don’t Cry for Me Argentina (3/22 – 3/24) Featuring Ellen Toscano ’01, reprising her role as Eva Peron from JustinSiena’s 2001 production
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FIDDLER ON THE ROOF
Lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, Book by Joseph Stein, Music by Jerry Bock | Originally Directed and Choreographed by Jerome Robbins
If I Were a Rich Man
Featuring Anthony Hutchinson, reprising his role as Tevye from Justin-Siena’s 1984 production
Tradition Fiddler on the Roof 2000
Featuring Feras Halabi as Tevye, Graham Terry ’03 and Aaron Fidler ’05 as the fiddlers, James Day ’72, Louis Pierotti ’72, and the Ensemble
A CHORUS LINE
Lyrics by Edward Kleban, Book by James Kirkwood Jr. and Nicholas Dante, Music by Marvin Hamlisch
Nothing
Featuring Patrizia Tandinco as Diana Morales
What I Did for Love
Featuring Lucy Harrington and the Seniors
A Chorus Line 1994
THE WIZARD OF OZ
Lyrics by E.R. Harburg, Music by Harold Arlen
Somewhere Over the Rainbow The Ensemble
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ENCORE THE WIZ
Music and Lyrics by Charlie Smalls
Home
Featuring Sarah Barba as Dorothy and the Ensemble
Ease on Down the Road
Featuring Jadyn Satten as the Scarecrow, Sarah Barba as Dorothy, and the Ensemble
The Wiz 1987
FOOTLOOSE
Lyrics by Dean Pitchford, Music by Tom Snow. Additional Music by Eric Carmen, Sammy Hagar, Kenny Loggins, and Jim Steinman
Footloose
Featuring Chris Marks ’13 and Mikayla Weiner ’13, reprising their roles as Willard and Rusty from Justin-Siena’s 2013 production.
Footloose 2013
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A LOOK TO THE FUTURE To close our Encore—a look to the future! Here are three musicals that we love which may someday grace the Justin-Siena stage.
WICKED
Music and Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz
For Good
Featuring Rose McGovern as Glinda and Sarah Barba as Elphaba
HAMILTON
Music and Lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda | Performed in conjunction with the 2018-19 One School; One Book/Play program
Alexander Hamilton/My Shot
Featuring Jadyn Satten as Hamilton, Emily Barba, Juliana Kunst, Patrizia Tandinco, Natalie Riddick as soloists, and the Ensemble
DEAR EVAN HANSON
Music and Lyrics by Justin Paul and Benj Pasek, Book by Steven Levenson
You Will Be Found
Featuring James Huber (3/15, 3/17, 3/23, 3/24) and Jason Celaya (3/16, 3/22) as Evan, Rose McGovern as Alana, Harrison Schaufel as Jared, Alegra Negrete as Cynthia, Feras Halabi as Larry, Sarah Barba as Zoe and the Ensemble
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ENCORE Orchestra Vivian Bayubay McLaughlin, Musical Director/Conductor Graham Terry ’03, Orchestrator/Concertmaster Piano/Keyboard . . . . . Jenny Quandt
Trumpet . . . . . . . . . . . . John Harris
Bass . . . . . . . . . . . . . Colin McCuen
Trombone . . . . . . . . . . . Daryl Burch
Guitar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sean Allen
Violins . . . . . . . . . Graham Terry ’03
Percussion/Drums . . . . . . . .Quinten
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aaron Fidler ’05
. . . . . . . . . . . Cohen/Max Rosenthal Reeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brendan Buss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alex Peters
Production Staff Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .James Thomas Bailey Choreographer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lisa Clark Schmeling^ Musical Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vivian Bayubay McLaughlin^ Orchestrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Graham Terry^ Lighting Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tom Durante^ Costume Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sylvia Gregory Set Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . James Thomas Bailey Technical Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tom Durante^ Graphic Designer/Marketing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Eileen Mize Master Carpenter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jeff Sharp Make-Up Supervisor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Debbie Skillings Production Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Simon Rebullida, Sasha Craig Video Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kenlon Clark Wardrobe Assistant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Eleane Christy Dance Captains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Natalie Riddick, Harrison Schaufel Visual Imagery Design Assistant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lauren Yung 14
+Member of International Thespian Society, the honor society for high school theatre students.
ENCORE Production continued Stage Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kay Duffy Assistant Stage Managers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Justin Eggan, Morgan Hearne Light Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Samantha Forbes+ Sound Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Christian Thompson Microphones. . . . . . . . . . . . . Morgan Hearne, Isabella Bonzani+, Mario Schmutz+ Sound Assistant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Olivia Boles+ Follow Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jin Wang, Elias Grotz Flyman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Paul Tilley Wardrobe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ashley Yung, Iden McIntyre, Ines Keller, Olivia Boles+ Costume Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Susan Schmutz, Muna Halabi, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marisa Bartalotti , Julie Brudney, Julie Boles, Casey Hiddleson, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Annelise Schaufel, Christine Trudo-Mayo, Patty Mispagel Set Carpenters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Heath Craig, Robert Brudney, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ken Kunst, Martha Levy, Brent Madsen Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kay Duffy, James Huber+, Emma Jane Knigge+ Publicity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Leslie Richmond, Annelise Schaufel, Tracy Walthard Gala Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Julie Boles, Mary Ann Eggan, Kathy Ervin, Teri Wells + Member of the International Thespian Society, the honor sociaty for high school theatre students. ^ Justin-Siena Alumni
Napa Valley Performing Arts Center at Lincoln Theater Staff Patricia Moskowite,General Manager Christian Parks, Director of Operations Laila Aghaie, Education & Outreach Director Shawn Potter, Technical Director Anne Mullaney, Marketing Director
Heather Seney, Marketing and Development Associate Elizabeth Botiller, Front of House Associate Linda Stite, Box Office Associate Pam Zeidell, Volunteer Coordinator
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ENCORE Production Staff LISA CLARK SCHMELING ’86
Lisa Clark Schmeling is a choreographer and dance instructor, best-known for her unique and innovative choreography. As the owner and artistic director of Dance Direction for over 25 years she has trained hundreds of dancers many of whom were inspired to pursue careers as professional dancers, choreographers and professors. They can be seen on the stages of American Ballet Theater, Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble, Las Vegas shows such as Viva Elvis and Julilee, Broadway’s West Side Story and Cats and many national tours. They’ve danced in music videos such as Poker Face (Lady Gaga) Papi (Jennifer Lopez), TV shows The X Factor, New Girl, Cougar Town and The Voice and movies such as High School Musical and Center Stage. Lisa is especially proud of her students who pursued the educational side of dance. Lisa Clark Schmeling’s dance company, The Lisa Clark Dancers, has been performing locally and nationally for 25 years. They have appeared on television shows such as Paula Abdul’s Live to Dance and were most recently seen on NBC’s America’s Got Talent as part of the top 48. Her company was featured in Dance Magazine as one of the “Top 10 Dance Companies on the Move.” She has won several choreography awards including the prestigious “Featured Choreographer” award for The Pulse on Tour. She has also gained recognition in the professional theater community having earned several “Best Choreography in a Musical” awards for her work in Equity shows such as Cabaret, Annie, The Producers, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and Pippin.
VIVIAN BAYUBAY MCLAUGHLIN
While working towards her BFA with honors from New York University, Vivian B. McLaughlin was chosen as a soloist for the annual Broadway on Broadway concert in New York’s Times Square. Soon after, she made her Broadway debut in The Wizard of Oz. After receiving her degree in drama with an emphasis in musical theatre, Vivian starred in Disney Channel’s Out of the Box and has since made appearances on Sesame Street English, Stanley’s Great Big Animal Adventure, and Bite Size. Her career has taken her to stages around the world, including Russia and Argentina. She has recorded several children’s audio books for Scholastic, Random House, and Bantam Doubleday and can also be heard on Volume I and II of the Playhouse Disney CD Series. Vivian has filmed industrials and commercials for such companies as Western Union, Sun Microsystems, Oracle, MSN, and Visa. She is a proud member of SAG/AFTRA and AEA. Vivian feels extremely lucky to have landed the role of “wife” to Bret McLaughlin and is equally blessed to have added the role of “Julien’s Mommy” to her resume. 16
TOM DURANTE ’93
Tom Durante is a proud graduate of Justin-Siena in 1993. He went on to receive his BFA from Chapman University and his Masters from California State University at Fullerton, in theatre design and production management. For the last 20 years, his focus has been on creating The Lux Productions, an event production and theatrical supply company founded, here, in the North Bay. During those years, Tom has designed most of the events and theatre shows for Justin-Siena.
SYLVIA GREGORY
Sylvia Gregory has worked as a costume designer, scenic designer and producer for 35 years in both theatre and film. She is a multiple award winner, having worked at Royal Court Theatre and the Hammersmith Theatre in London, MGM Studios, United Artists, Pinewood Studios and more. She is proud to have worked with many local theatre companies, including Justin-Siena, for which she designed The Birds, Once on This Island, Sister Act, and Guys and Dolls last year.
JAMES THOMAS BAILEY
James Thomas Bailey is proud to serve as Director of Theatre Arts for Justin-Siena. He is also Artistic Director of ComedySportz Los Angeles, the longest running show in the city’s history, now its 30th year. In addition to ComedySportz, he has been an active producer in the professional theatre scene, having produced more than fifty shows in Los Angeles, including many west coast and world premieres. Most recently, his all-female improvised Shakespeare production, Chickspeare, played in Hollywood and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival for several seasons. As an actor, he has appeared on television, in many national commercials and in more than forty stage productions. His productions have won numerous awards (including top honors from the Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle). Mr. Bailey is also well known as corporate trainer and consultant, with clients such as Universal Studios, Walt Disney, ABC, Google, eBay, Nestle and Coca-Cola, among others. In addition to his corporate work, his youth education program, the ComedySportz High School League, is the largest teen improvisational theatre program in the United States and currently serves more than 70 schools in southern California (and Justin-Siena!). He is the past president and board member of the California Educational Theatre Association. Mr. Bailey also serves as a Cultural Specialist for the U.S. State Department and regularly teaches for the American embassy and Ministry of Culture on the island nation of Cyprus. Locally, he serves on the Napa County Arts and Culture Advisory Committee. 17
ENCORE Alumni Guest Artists JAMES DAY ’72
Jim has been an educator since 1980, with various positions in public schools at the elementary and secondary level. A Justin-Siena faculty member since 2001 and member of the Social Studies Department, Jim has happily taught World History and U.S. History for many years.
AARON FIDLER ’05
After Justin-Siena, Aaron attended the Catholic University of America. He is thrilled to have performed in some of the most renowned concert halls in the U.S. and Europe. Balancing his time between his work as a firefighter and his passion for music, Aaron teaches private violin lessons and regularly performs for theater productions as a pit musician.
ANTHONY HUTCHINSON ’85
A graduate of Saint Mary’s College where he minored in Performing Arts and majored in Philosophy, Anthony ultimately fell in love with mathematics as philosophers often do. Though he has been involved in various aspects of theatre— particularly high school theatre—on and off over the years, he has spent the last 30 years striving to live a life of competent obscurity teaching mathematics. He currently lives in Oakland, CA with his husband, Tracy, and works at Alhambra High School in Martinez where he teaches mathematics.
LISA LAFONTAINE ’87
Lisa’s first professional gig was at Great America in Santa Clara, 1987. She spent the majority of her illustrious career at sea on a cruise ship which she found to be a great experience. As for her performance in the 50th Anniversary production of Encore she says, “this one goes out to AHU, Jenny H., Steve K. and Tod M. Such an honor to be a part of this experience!”
CHRIS MARKS ’13
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Chris found his passion for dance at the age of 8, and at age 14 he began serious training under the direction of Lisa Clark-Schmeling. At age 16, Chris made his TV debut on America’s Got Talent with the Lisa Clark Dancers. Where his group made the Top 48 of Season 7. Chris is a graduate of Chapman University with a BFA in Dance Performance and a minor in Women’s Studies, graduating with Cum Laude distinction. During his time at Chapman, Chris was awarded Outstanding Choreographer in Chapman’s “Works in Progress” Concert and an Outstanding Performance Award for the “Fall Faculty” Concert.
ANNEMARIE MENDONSA ’12
Annemarie is delighted to return to the stage with JST! Her on-stage memories are endless—West Side Story; Les Miserables (Understudy Cosette); Singin’ in the Rain; Thoroughly Modern Millie (Miss Dorothy Brown); The Music Man (Marian Paroo); Phantom of the Opera (Christine Daaé); and Pippin (Catherine). Annemarie graduated from Santa Clara University with a B.S. in Bioengineering and an M.S. in Engineering Management (’16 & ’17). Annemarie currently works in the medical device industry as a Biomedical Project Engineer.
LOUIS F. PIEROTTI ’72
Louis got his acting start with Justin-Siena appearing in the program’s inaugural My Fair Lady, and Mame. He went on to perform in As You Like It, and The Importance of Being Earnest at Saint Mary’s College, and then Oh What a Lovely War! with the Napa Valley Theatre Company. His directing credits include Romeo & Juliet, The Visit, Madwoman of Chaillot, and You Can’t Take it With You. Simultaneously, Louis has paired his fondness for the stage with teaching and served as an English and Theatre Arts instructor at Southern Oregon University and is currently on the Justin-Siena faculty having taught Film Studies and English for the past five years.
KRISTEN CLARK SEEFELDT ’89
After graduating from Justin-Siena in 1989, Kristen attended the Pacific Conservatory for the Performing Arts in Santa Maria, CA. There she was seen as the Narrator in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, for four consecutive seasons. Other roles include Janis Joplin in Beehive—Oregon Cabaret Theater, Grizabella in Cats, Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors, and the title role in Always... Patsy Cline. Kristen’s all-time favorite roles are that of wife to Shane, and mother to 20-year-old Kellan. Kristen currently works as a Therapeutic Music/Caregiver for patients with Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia.
MICHAEL STARR ’10
Michael is honored to be back onstage with such amazing JST rock stars! Mike is a UCLA alum currently living in L.A. He just started filming the first season of Disney’s new show Encore! He can currently be seen as Prince Hans in Frozen at Disneyland. He spent the last year touring with Steve Martin’s musical Bright Star. Favorite past credits: Romy & Michele, A Chorus Line, Carrie the Musical, West Side Story, World Goes ’Round, 42nd Street, and 1776. Follow Michael @mjstarr77. 19
GRAHAM TERRY ’03
A double major in Music and French at UC Davis, Graham has been organizing musical performances since he was 18, starting at the UC Berkeley Alumni Summer Camp, the Lair of the Bear. In his 20s, he taught private lessons on violin, and toured internationally in a rock band as a bassist. In his 30s, he landed the gig pioneering a fresh and inventive Instrumental Music Program for his alma mater, Justin-Siena, creating a customized curriculum for each student through his own musical arrangements. He continues to play shows on fiddle, guitar, and bass, do studio work, produce records, while providing private lessons in violin and guitar at the Napa School of Music.
ELLEN TOSCANO ’01
After performing in the title roles of Evita and Gypsy at Justin-Siena, Ellen attended NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and earned a BFA in theatre and music. She then spent ten years performing professionally in San Francisco’s Beach Blanket Babylon (some favorite roles include Sarah Palin, Nancy Pelosi, Miley Cyrus, Paris Hilton, Lady Gaga). She has since performed with Transcendence Theatre Company and has also worked alongside John Cleese (Monty Python) and Gina Rodriguez (Jane the Virgin). Ellen currently works as a Reiki Master, recruiter, and charity auctioneer.
MIKAYLA WEINER ’13
Mikayla is a Justin-Siena Theatre and Lisa Clark Dancer Alum. She was a part of several JS productions including Singin’ in the Rain, The Music Man, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Pippin, and Footloose. As a Lisa Clark Dancer, Mikayla made it to the Quarter Finals of NBC’s America’s Got Talent and danced alongside her childhood team. She is thrilled to be back onstage and under the direction of James Bailey and Lisa Clark. Mikayla currently works as a Technical Recruiter.
20
Congratulations on
50 Years of Justin-Siena Theatre
In gratitude for the talent of the JUSTIN-SIENA THEATRE DIRECTORS Founding Director, Robert C. Morrish 1969-1979
Todd Decker and Kelly Daniel-Decker 1996-2002
Jerry Gardiner 1980-1982
Vivian Bayubay McLaughlin 2002-2005
Alex H. Urban 1982-1995
Matthew Teague Miller ’95 2005-2011
Mary Fullerton 1995-1996
James Thomas Bailey 2011-present 21
I Could Have Danced All Night . . .
50 YEARS OF THEATRE . . . and still have begged for more . . . It is not often that a school can celebrate fifty years of a stellar program that has touched the lives of so many, but we can! Enjoy this tribute to fifty years of Justin-Siena Theatre. gathered a cast and BY EILEEN MIZE Director of Communications rich tradition in the crew from both JusJustin-Siena has a performing
22
arts,
tin and neighboring
dating back to 1969 with its first pro-
Siena High School for Girls (where he
duction, My Fair Lady. The founding
was also on faculty) to mount that
Director of Theatre Arts at Justin-
first famed production.
Siena was Mr. Robert C. “Bob� Mor-
My Fair Lady met with resound-
rish (pictured above) who had joined
ing success from student partici-
the Justin High School faculty in
pants and audience members alike
1968 as a Latin and Spanish teacher
and thus began a new tradition at
and quickly saw a need for theater
two schools that merged to become
arts in the co-curricular line-up and
Justin-Siena High School. JS faculty
My Fair Lady 1969
members Jim Day ’72 and Louis Pierotti ’72 (pictured third from the left in the above newspaper clip) were student actors at the time. The highly regarded Mr. Morrish went on to direct a number of hits including a favorite of his, Hello, Dolly! which he first did in 1974 and again as his final directorial act in 1979. Some notable firsts during his tenure were the introduction of microphones in the 1976 production of Camelot, a show chosen at the urging of Br. Warren who had been
Oklahoma 1977
heavily involved as choreographer
who led the program through 1995.
(given his talents in bringing the
The first production to be taken “out-
cheerleaders and song girls to state-
side” was Mr. Urban’s 1985 innovative
wide achievement) as well as set and
extravaganza of Barnum, based on
costume designer. Mr. Morrish and Br.
the life of the great showman, P.T.
Warren were a formidable pair. Their
Barnum, and was held on the site of
collaboration ushered in a great in-
our former softball field. It was dur-
flux of student athletes looking to
ing the 80s that JS Dance Instructor
broaden their horizons, including
Lisa Clark Schmeling ’84 unveiled
gridiron great Nelson Bettencourt
her talents in the choreography de-
’74 who landed a role in the 1974 pro-
partment. Playing the part of Bloody
duction of Hello, Dolly! The 1977 pro-
Mary in Mr. Urban’s 1983 production
duction of Oklahoma! featured sig-
of South Pacific, Lisa went on to play
nificant advances in set design with
a major role in theatre choreography
a spectacular rotating set thanks to
as witnessed in the 1984 production
the talents of Jeff Streblow ’77 and
of West Side Story, and then even
Jim Collins ’77. The set would be
after she graduated, in the 1985 pro-
used used again the following year
duction of Godspell and the 1986
in the 1978 production of Annie Get
production of Grease.
Your Gun, which also featured some outstanding special effects.
Mr. Morrish found himself back on the JST stage in Mr. Urban’s 1987
The program continued to grow
production of A Christmas Carol in
and evolve through the 80s and 90s
the role of Scrooge, beginning a tra-
under the brief direction of Mr. Jerry
dition of incorporating faculty mem-
Gardiner and then Mr. Alex H. Urban
bers into the show when possible. 23
He
played
Bill
from below by
Sykes in the 1990
Eric Steggall ’94
production
of
who also lent be-
Oliver, which also
hind-the-scenes
featured
muscle
some
the
younger
cast
carnivorous plant
members
from
in the 1993 pro-
St.
Apollinaris
duction of Little
and St. John the
Shop of Horrors.
Baptist
In Big River Mr.
elemen-
tary schools—in-
Morrish
cluding
the King opposite
grade
an
8th
Matthew
Farver ’94 who Grease 1986 played the title role.
Tom
played Durante’s
’94 role of the Duke and often regarded this as his
Thus far, with the exception of
favorite role. The duo would reprise
the outdoor production of Barnum,
their act in a revue production called
all performances had been done in
Starbound in 1993. Set construction
the Justin Cafeteria. The big move to
took center stage once again in the
what now is the permanent home of
1992 production of Into the Woods,
JST, then called the North Gym and
largely guest-directed by Pat Halla-
today called Siena Hall, was with Mr.
han ’93 where Steve Moore, father
Urban’s 1990 revival production of
of Stepheny Moore ’96 built a rustic
West Side Story. This show set a new
arched wooden bridge to connect
standard with its talent and produc-
the apron with a gigantic thrust at
tion quality. The following summer
the center of which was a revolving
in 1991, Mr. Urban took the show to Russia where students joined with a teenage Russian cast and performed at the Gogol Theatre in Moscow to great acclaim, and the international tour would continue with other performances in London, Cambridge, Paris, and New York in the following years. The 1991 production of Big River saw great advances in set construction. Three thrusts were built, resembling piers and a moving raft piloted 24
to
Into the Woods 1992
stage. The cast was packed with talent including Kristy Cates ’95 who played a witch, perhaps some foreshadowing to her role in the Broadway hit musical Wicked and starring Elphaba in the Chicago production! The Alex Urban era with JST drew to a close in the 1994-95 school year as the demands of his Children’s Theatres in Southern California and elsewhere were taking more and more of his time. His final production at the Home of the Braves was Once on This Island with Marna Farver ’96
Gypsy 1999
playing the lead of Ti Moune. Marna
Braves and played a role in getting
was able to enjoy a revival produc-
more athletes involved in theater
tion of Once on This Island twenty
over the years. Making a great team,
years later in 2016 when Ti Moune
Todd handled the musical aspect
was played by Hannah Brudney ’18.
and Kelly was more the stage direc-
Mr. Urban is fondly remembered
tor. Mr. Morrish called her a master
for the indelible mark he left on the
who knew her craft and knew how
program, the spectacular careers he
to elicit the best performances from
helped launch, and for the first-rate
everyone. One set construct theatre
shows he directed that rivaled any-
fans are still talking about is the gar-
thing on Broadway, according to
gantuan display in How to Succeed
many fans.
in Business Without Really Trying in
The theatre program continued
1997—Bill Berry ’98 and Doug Buur-
under the direction of Mary Fullerton
ma ’99 really outdid themselves. JST
who focused on straight dramas and
standout Michael Daw ’97, known
who soon passed the baton to Mr.
for his title role in the 1995 produc-
Todd Decker, a JS History teacher at
tion of Cyrano de Bergerac, played
the time. He and his wife Kelly Daniel-
the sneaky nephew, then took his tal-
Decker ushered in a new era of musi-
ent to Santa Clara to become a stage
cals with a fantastic production of the
specialist and hone his stage sword
Cole Porter classic Anything Goes
fighting skills.
in 1996 with the luminous Rian Mc-
The hits kept coming! Taylor Bar-
Carroll ’96 as Reno Sweeney. Rian’s
tolucci ’00 and Lauren Dunn ’99
father, Lynn McCarroll had served
sparkled alternating as Mama Rose
as the first Athletic Director for the
under the more than 16,000 lights 25
today as the music director for the musicals. Justin-Siena theatre alum and Broadway veteran Matthew Teague Miller ’95 took the directorial helm of the program that had launched his career and in 2005, mounted a fantastic revue Braves on Broadway where program veterans and current students performed side by side and showcased the talent of JST in a very bright light.
26
A memorable moment of the
Guys and Dolls 2002
show was the “Razzle Dazzle” Chi-
arranged for the proscenium and
cago number performed by Mr. Bob
specialty signs in the 1999 produc-
Morrish on the very stage he held
tion of Gypsy. They dazzled the audi-
auditions for the 1969 production of
ences alongside Ellen Toscano ’01 as
My Fair Lady and launched a theatre
Gypsy who went on to wow crowds
program. Mr. Morrish made his final
in Fiddler on the Roof and then as
exit at that show taking leave from
Eva Peron in the ambitious produc-
Justin-Siena and soon after losing
tion of the Andrew Lloyd Webber
his battle with cancer. His legacy un-
sensation, Evita whose finale perfor-
doubtedly lives on.
mance of “Don’t Cry for Me Argen-
The very next show was a revival
tina” brought everyone, including
of Arsenic and Old Lace where the
Ellen, to tears. The Deckers’ tenure
lead role of Mortimer Brewster was
came to a close with a revival of the
double cast with cousins—freshman
classic Guys and Dolls before they
Jeffrey Gerlomes ’10 and senior Vin-
moved to Michigan.
cent Beard ’07 who’s aunt, Eileen
Then Vivian Bayubay McLaughlin
Beard ’70, played Eliza Doolittle in
took the helm—a NYU graduate, and
the inaugural My Fair Lady. Students
TV star who married fellow JST alum
continued to take on more and more
Bret McLaughlin ’93. It was the 2003
aspects of the show. The 2007 pro-
production of Once Upon a Mattress
duction of The Complete Works of
that put JST back in the limelight,
William
but not to be outdone by the revival
was largely student-directed by Jor-
of Oklahoma! in 2003 and then Bye
dan Joske ’07.
Shakespeare
[Abridged]
Bye Birdie in 2004. Vivian McLaugh-
Building on more than four de-
lin continues to be involved with JST
cades of theatre, Matthew Miller took
Napa Premiere of The Phantom of the Opera 2010 the program to new heights with
had a soft spot, having played Marius
acclaimed productions and techni-
on Broadway) wasn’t big enough for
cal feats such as actual falling rain
a high school to tackle. The show
in the 2009 production of Singin’ in
involved an immense cast and crew
the Rain! Michael Starr ’10, dancing
with a record number of students,
across the stage in the North Gym,
faculty, and administrators alike. The
was literally singing in the rain. Us-
part of Phantom was double cast by
ing theater to shine a light on social
senior Will Purdue ’11 and freshman
justice issues, Dead Man Walking de-
Max Risch ’14 with sets, choreogra-
livered a poignant performance sur-
phy and a professional venue, this
passed only by the on-campus visit
show stunned audiences and was
of the story’s own Sr. Helen Prejean,
said to have rivaled an off-Broadway
who was portrayed on stage by Erin
production.
Kinda ’10.
With the program soaring to even
Another program milestone was
further heights and drawing record
moving a production off campus
numbers of student participants,
to the Napa Valley Performing Arts
it was time for Mr. James Thomas
Center at Lincoln Theater located
Bailey to take the reigns of JST. He
on the Veteran’s Home campus just
brought with him new ideas, new
up the road in Yountville—the first
connections, and a level of profes-
being a 2011 production and Napa
sionalism that elevated the program
premiere of The Phantom of the Op-
and continues to serve our young
era, as if the 2009 production of Les
thespians well. A consummate edu-
Miserables (for which Matthew Miller
cator, he ensures his young actors 27
ter Pan at Tokyo Disneyland),
William
Francis
’16, Hunter Schaufel ’18, and Rachel Carey ’17, and Demetri Bouzos ’17 to name a few. Justin-Siena also had many dedicated Technical Theatre students from the Class of 2017, including Jacob Jolley ’17, Jacob Prittie ’17, Nathan Reynoso ’17, and Nicholas
Anything Goes 2014
28
Reynoso ’17. Following a couple of
are exposed to different genres and
seasons that featured some origi-
styles. As such, he introduced an an-
nal and adapted dramas such as
nual production of ComedySportz
The Twilight Zone—Live on Stage,
High School League—a high en-
The Birds—A Modern Adaptation,
ergy, innovative competitive improv
and Driven which boasted a series
show—that has become a staple in
of original one act plays performed
the annual repertoire. Yountville’s
in actual cars, James Thomas Bailey
Lincoln Theatre continues to be the
chose to open the 50th anniversary
home for the annual spring musi-
season in the fall of 2018 with a the-
cals, and James Thomas Bailey has
ater classic—Our Town—which was
balanced a mix of classic and con-
also celebrating a milestone in its
temporary with big productions and
80th year. Authored by the same
some Napa premieres such as Pippin
playwright as the 1996 production of
in 2012 with Drew Dorsey ’12 as The
The Matchmaker, Thornton Wilder’s
Player and Anything Goes in 2014.
stamp runs deep in JST history. Mr.
Then Helena Herber ’14 shone as
Morrish’s favorite and twice-directed
Reno Sweeney as did Tyler Bertani
production of Hello, Dolly! is based
’17 in Urinetown in 2016 and Sister
on Wilder’s The Matchmaker—and
Act in 2017, which was affectionately
Mr. Jim Day ’72 played the part of the
dedicated to the Dominican Sisters
Stage Manager as Mr. Louis Pierotti
of San Rafael on the occasion of
’72 (both who were in the first JST
the 50th Anniversary of Justin-Sie-
production) sat in the audience
na High School. Audiences enjoyed
opening night as newcomers Jadyn
other notable performances by Evan
Satten ’21 and Satya Green-Cardo-
Day ’16 (who is currently playing Pe-
na ’19 took center stage as George
technical expertise to use and developing a thriving local business. But he still has time for Justin-Siena—not just theatre, but serves as Chair of the Board of Trustees. In the spirit of celebration, Mr. Bailey has created a 50th anniversary spring musical production for the ages: Encore—a musical theater celebration 50 years in the making! Guests will relive the magic and moments that have dazzled audiences through five decades as brought to
Sister Act 2016
life by our vibrant theatre program
Gibbs and Emily Webb, respectively.
and featuring a a dozen special
And so the program comes full circle.
alumni guest artists. With such a rich
Even from a technical standpoint, the
and storied history and decades of
shows today benefit from long-time
inspiring performances, the Justin-
scene, lighting, and sound wiz Tom
Siena Theatre program has impacted
Durante ’93 who got his start on the
the lives of so many and is poised
JS stage and launched a career in
to reach even higher heights as the
event design putting his passion and
show goes on!
Congratulations on
50 Years of Justin-Siena Theatre “Who would have thought playing the Mayor of Munchkinland in the 1973 production of The Wizard of Oz would have led to a career in politics!”
Senator Bill Dodd ’74 and Mrs. Mary Dodd 29
Alumni
MEMORIES
Justin-Siena Theatre alums talk about the impact their JST days had on their lives and offer advice to young students considering trying out for a show!
Audrey (Tammy) Borges Blackseth ’72
Audrey transitioned from the JS stage to the stage at Mills College where she earned BA in Ecumenical Dance from the Fuller Theological Seminary. And just last year, she received her Masters of Theology in Worship and the Arts. She gives workshops on the use of movement in Worship and plan to publish some monographs related to the deaf community and the what the hearing can learn from them in worship. She fondly remembers working with Mr. Morrish in those pioneering years of JS Theatre and was involved in the first production where she recalls classmate Louis Pierotti ’72 stealing the show in My Fair Lady. Her JST credits include My Fair Lady (dancer), Bye Bye, Birdie, and Hello, Dolly!, (all as dancer and chorus). JST IMPACT: I learned about community, humility, and the power of encouragement. ADVICE: You have nothing to lose! Take the risk and meet a whole new family of artists. That nudging is there for a reason so welcome it. Also, respect your director. They are mysteriously intuitive and deserve your trust. PARTING THOUGHTS: We all 30
went out on a limb in our productions and stretched ourselves with pleasant results. Giving of one’s gifts puts a smile on God’s face and encourages us to take more risks on His behalf.
Louis Pierotti ’72
Louis Pierotti ’72 first “tread the boards” with the colorful and eccentric Robert Moorish in Justin’s very first production, My Fair Lady. As a current member of our faculty, Louis Pierotti went on to minor in Drama at Saint Mary’s College of California. Having caught the theatre bug he continued to work in entertainment with The Napa Valley Theatre Company and The Berkeley Repertory Theatre. He stayed in the business working nationally as a marketing and fundraising consultant for clients such as The New York Philharmonic and the San Francisco Opera. When he made the switch to education he directed numerous plays for Saint Mary’s CollegeHigh School in Berkeley. His JST credits
Alumni
MEMORIES
included My Fair Lady (Jamie), and Mame (Older Patrick). His son, Leonardo, carried on the family tradition with his appearance as Dill in To Kill a Mockingbird at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. JST IMPACT: I learned important life skills of time management and how to work with a team. ADVICE: When you go on stage, don’t act like a character behave like one. PARTING THOUGHTS: Theatre has become a habit. There isn’t a day that goes by without using my training in the classroom.
astic about it as they are today.” After Justin-Siena, Bill went on to earn a BS in business from Chico State University. Although he didn’t stick with theatre, he has a great appreciation for the arts and enjoys the Napa Valley and Bay Area arts scenes, which he balances with a busy life of family, community involvement and politics—currently serving as a California State Senator. Bill’s JST credits include The Wizard of Oz (Mayor of Munchkinland), Hello, Dolly! (Ambrose Kemper, Dolly Levi’s nephew) JST IMPACT: Being involved in theatre gave me a basic understanding of the complexities and work that go into a performance and that practice makes perfect! PARTING THOUGHTS: Who would have thought being the Mayor of Munchkinland in the Wizard of Oz would have led to a political career!
Patty Andersen Ashauer ’79
Bill Dodd ’74
Through his involvement in theatre, Bill came to appreciate his director as a man ahead of his times in some ways. “Bob Morrish gave his whole life to advance the arts at a time that the rest of the community was nowhere as enthusi-
Patty touts having Mr. Bob Moorish as her theatre teacher/mentor as a major highlight of her high school experience. She says that she has been able to use the lessons learned from Theatre Arts throughout her life, from earning a degree in psychology from California State University, Long Beach, to a career as a business executive in IT. Although her time on stage didn’t go beyond Maher Street, she really benefited from performing in Mr. Morrish’s production of Annie Get Your Gun. 31
Alumni
MEMORIES
JST IMPACT: I learned to be brave. ADVICE: Find what makes you smile with passion and brings out your “inner extrovert.
PARTING THOUGHTS: While the experience of working with Mr. Morrish was both exciting and excruciating, participating in the spring musicals was always a highlight at Justin-Siena.
PARTING THOUGHTS: I love seeing Broadway shows.
Laura McColgan Gardner ’90
Jonathan Darby Farrell ’82
Although Hello, Dolly! with the legendary Mr. Bob Morrish remains a highlight of his high school theatre days, Jonathan shares that his years at JS gave him an unexpected push into his current career in journalism through which he is able to write about the arts. It was the challenging directing of Mr. Morrish that tested his endurance and no doubt prepared him for his undergrad studies at Franciscan University in Steubenville, Ohio. He took a break from the stage during college, but did attend a professional acting school years later. His JST credits included Hello Dolly; Damn Yankees; Mrs. McThing; Anything Goes; Little Miss Mary Sunshine.
Laura got a taste of theatre prior to JS in a production of South Pacific and then joined Justin-Siena Theatre and performed in every show at except Guys and Dolls for which she served as the stage manager. Laura went on to Sonoma State University where she studied psychology and education and even minored in theatre. She says she uses her theatre skills every day in front of her students. Earlier this year she found herself on stage again with the Napa Valley College production of Sister Act. Laura has fond memories of her JS Theatre days. “I loved the family feel that we created among ourselves. I felt like I always had a
JST IMPACT: I developed a love of musicals and learned how to overcome insecurities. ADVICE: In addition to getting involved, I would encourage current students to read plays and see as many productions as possible to get a wellrounded view of theater. 32
Oliver! 1990
Alumni
MEMORIES
friend.” Her JST credits included Grease; The Wiz; The Fantasticks; A Christmas Carol; Guys and Dolls (stage manager); Little Shop of Horrors; Carnival; Godspell; and Oliver!
rable high school highlights. He went on to study opera and earn a degree from Boston College. His JST credits include Oliver!; Godspell; Big River; West Side Story; Into the Woods; Starbound; Grease, Carnival; and Pirates of Penzance.
JST IMPACT: Iearned that I can do anything that I set my mind to. ADVICE: Do it! PARTING THOUGHTS: I am grateful for the friendships I made through JST that still last today.
Michelle Campbell Momsen ’90
Michelle is using her theatrical foundation in her teaching career and has fond memories of her JS Theatre days—if you can call being dragged off stage a fond recollection! Her JST credits included Carnival and Oliver! JST IMPACT: I learned time management skills and had a great time doing it. I also use my experience when I oversee the Christmas pageant every year! ADVICE: Do it. Whether you get the part you want or not, just being a part of a production in any sense is amazing. PARTING THOUGHTS: Mr. Urban and Mr. Morrish. Enough said.
Chad Meyer ’93
Chad considers all the productions with which he was involved to be very memo-
Big River 1991
Jennifer Borchelt Quezada ’93
Through Justin-Siena Theatre Jennifer (picture left with Lea Purcell Allen ’93 and Joelle Zarzana Albano ’94) learned that without the ensemble there is no show and key life lessons such as the importance of hard work and dedication in the pursuit of excellence. JST holds many of her most treasured memories as a student. These lessons served her well as she pursued a degree at the University of San Francisco and performed in several community theatre productions. Jennifer forged many life-long friendships through her time with JST and considered any production with Mr. Alex Urban at the helm a 33
Alumni
MEMORIES
true high school highlight. Her theatre connections continue today through her children. “My children are a part of the same children’s theatre organization that Mr. Urban started in San Diego, and my mom continues to direct the children’s theatre he began in Sonoma.” Her JST credits included Carnival (ensemble); Godspell (ensemble); Oliver! (The Artful Dodger and Bet); West Side Story (Anybodys and Consuelo); Pirates of Penzance (ensemble); Grease (Marty and Patty Simcox); Big River (Susan); Into the Woods (Cinderella’s Stepmother). JST IMPACT: Theatre can change lives. Because of theatre, I have the confidence to pursue my goals. I became an elementary school teacher and implemented many aspects of theatre in my teaching. I always say that without theatre, I would never have had the confidence to become a teacher. ADVICE: Just go for it. Theatre will change your life for the better. PARTING THOUGHTS: Justin-Siena Theatre is a legacy of which I am proud to be a part.
Diego Garcia ’94
Diego has taken many of his JST lessons with him through life. “Participating in theatre has made me a confident public speaker, compassionate listener, and team player”—all useful skills as he pursues a law degree as a second-year student at Golden Gate University. Although he is currently taking a bit 34
of a break from the music path that he continued in earnest though both undergraduate and post-graduate work at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, he stills finds time to play music professionally a few times a month. He plans to return to performing more often after passing the Bar exam. As he thinks back to his high school days he recalls this highlight: “Performing a group song from South Pacific with members of the football team, cheerleaders, and kids from all different social groups. It really was a unified and inclusive experience.” His JST credits included Grease; Into the Woods; Starbound; Little Shop of Horrors; and Broadway Bound. JST IMPACT: Never be afraid to get your hands dirty, be there for each other onstage and off, art is transformative for the actor and the audience. ADVICE: It’s fun, engaging, and has a beneficial effect on your friendships, studies, and confidence. PARTING THOUGHTS: From Bob Morrish to James Day ’72, to this day Justin-Siena has a wonderful tradition
Alumni
MEMORIES
of faculty members joining students onstage and participating in the creative process. It makes the learning environment all the richer.
Eric Steggall ’94
In an arts carreer which has included arts manager, technical director, and educator, Eric currently serves as the Managing Director for Theater, Dance and Opera at Oberlin College and Conservatory. He credits his time with JST as key to his career trajectory. “It is not an exaggeration to say that JS Theater literally and figuratively helped to shape my entire career, and by default, my life. I’ve happily enjoyed working in the fine and performing arts for more than 25 years, in multiple genres and across the country, all thanks to being able to discover theater though Alex Urban and the opportunities that JS afforded me. From Justin-Siena he went straight into the BFA program at Emerson College and earned a degree in technical theater. After his undergrad work he went directly into the MFA program at the University of Connecticut and earned an MFA in technical direction/arts management. His JST credits include every show from spring of 1991-1994. JST IMPACT: JS Theatre directly impacted and helped to form the trajectory of my life.
Maria Turnage-Esse ’94
It is clear that Maria’s lifelong passion for theatre arts and the sense of family that is developed through creative collaboration was fueled at Justin-Siena. She reflects on how Mr. Alex Urban “instilled collaborative competition and a drive to be our best and focus. We were always competitive with one another but in a collaborative, respectful and positive way. We helped one another, taught each other, learned from one another, and built each other up to be better and grow as artists and individuals. So many of us succeeded in the industry because of the focus, dedication, and collaborative habits he instilled in us. We were always striving to be better people, artists and performers. He expected the best from us and we always rose to exceed his expectations.” Maria went from the JS stage to earn a BFA in Drama/Musical Theatre from NYU, Tisch School of the Arts. In addition to pursuing her degree at NYU Tisch, she met and married her husband—Broadway performer turned director/choreographer, Parker Esse. Their son Jaden is now pursuing theatre arts in college. Among other things, Maria has been a full time theatre associate director/director and the Artistic Director of their own Theatre Educational Company, The Broadway Master Class Series. Next, she will be collaborating with her husband who will be director/choreographer, on several projects. Maria’s JST credits include Pirates of Penzance (Ruth, Mable); West 35
Alumni
MEMORIES
Side Story (Anita); Starbound (Kiss of the Spider Woman, Featured Performer); Big River (Mary Jane); Into The Woods (Baker’s Wife, the Witch); Little Shop of Horrors (Audrey) JST IMPACT: My entire educational experience at Justin-Siena and the theatrical education I received with Alex Urban propelled and prepared me for a lifetime career in the arts. ADVICE: Prepare, breathe, project and be yourself. It’s not about the part, it’s about your continued growth as an artistic individual. Have fun and focus on your goals. PARTING THOUGHTS: Because of our time together in high school, we will always be Theatre “Family” because of JS Theatre and Alex Urban.
Alison Bretches ’95
Theatre was what brought Alison to Justin-Siena in the first place, and enthusiastic involvement in JS theatre paved the way for a college and career path. Alison moved to Napa from Southern California since she was familiar with Alex Urban and desired a high caliber program to prepare her for college and beyond. After Justin-Siena, Alison went on to earn a BFA in Musical Theatre from Emerson College and then an MFA in Musical Theatre from San Diego State University. Since 2007 Alison has served as the Artistic Director of Metropolitan Educational Theatre Network (MET2), 36
which was the educational theatre program Alex H. Urban founded more than thirty years ago. She is also the former lead teacher of the Emerson College PreCollege Musical Theatre Summer Program. Alison has performed, directed, and taught internationally, as well as throughout Southern California. As she thinks back on her time at the Home of the Braves, she recalls an important lesson in particular, dealt by Alex Urban, that propelled her on a research course that lasted through college and became her grad school thesis topic. Alison and fellow thespian, Matthew Farver ’94, were tackling the choreography for a production of Little Shop of Horrors, and being over-confident teenagers, they presented what they though was some great choreography to Mr. Urban—who told them how he really felt and sent them back to the drawing board—but not before providing a crash course in the history of choreography and study of some greats like Bob Fosse, Michael Kidd, Michael Bennett, Gene Kelly, and others. Alison recalls, “Matthew and I worked tirelessly for days. We watched movies, we choreographed throughout evenings and weekends, and we came back with entirely new dances. Mr. Urban happily approved these numbers and told us they were exactly what he was looking for. He knocked down a pair of teenagers who were a little full of themselves, challenged (even dared us) to do better, and taught us exactly how to be more than even we knew we were capable of. From that moment, I started
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collecting books on musical theatre dance history. Throughout college I continued research on the topic and in graduate school I even wrote my thesis on the pedagogy of musical theatre dance history. I’ve since gone on to teach the subject to numerous students at various levels.” Her JST credits include Little Shop of Horrors (Audrey, Chiffon, and co-choreographer); Broadway Bound (soloist, ensemble, co-choreographer); A Chorus Line (Val, Cassie understudy, and co-choreographer); and Once on this Island (Asaka and Mama Euralie, choreographer, assistant director) JST IMPACT: I developed incredible life skills through the top-notch JS theatre program—work ethic, collaboration, determination, perseverance, and social skills.
of three little ones and working in the Napa Unified School District. Her JST credits include Broadway Bound, Starbound, Little Shop of Horrors, A Chorus Line (Diana Morales), Anything Goes (angel), Once on this Island (Ti Moune), and her best theatre memory is any Alex Urban production. THE JST IMPACT: JS Theatre taught me to be proud of myself and that hard work really does reap benefits. PARTING THOUGHTS: Even 20+ years later, my theatre memories are vivid. Today I enjoy the opportunity to introduce my children to the wonder of theater.
Once on This Island 1995
ADVICE: Challenge yourself to be better. You’re capable of more than you even know. But realize nobody is going to hand you anything on a silver platter—you have to work for and earn the opportunities given to you. PARTING THOUGHTS: It is a testament to JS that so many of us who participated together are still friends and/or connected in some way.
Marna Farver ’96
After her time in the JS spotlight, Marna attended Chapman University and earned a degree in Sociology. She currently fills her time as a busy mom
Rian McCarroll Salvatierra ’96
A graduate of San Francisco State University Rian works in the wine industry in direct sales and marketing. Her theater pursuits beyond Maher Street included some theater for fun in college. She values her time spent on stage at Justin-Siena and the lifelong friends she made. Rian also recalls with fondness 37
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the final production directed by Mr. Alex Urban. Her JST credits include Into the Woods; Starbound; Little Shop of Horrors; Broadway Bound; A Chorus Line; Once on This Island; Cyrano de Bergerac; Little Women; and Anything Goes (Reno Sweeney). JST IMPACT: I gained confidence and self-acceptance and learned how to work hard. I made lifelong friendships—I still have the same friends that I met all those years ago. ADVICE: Do it! You won’t regret trying. You may find it is something that prepares you for so many more areas in your life. PARTING THOUGHTS: What happened at JS Theater stays at JS Theater.
Ellen Toscano ’01
From taking on the powerful role of Eva Perón and being brought to tears on stage during Eva’s Final Broadcast in Evita, Ellen took that passion to the stage at NYU and beyond. From New York University’s Tisch School of the 38
Arts where she performed in a number of productions, majored in drama, and minored in music, Ellen found her way back to the City by the Bay. Now after ten years performing professionally in Beach Blanket Babylon, she has spent the last three years working with Transcendence Theatre Company, Sonoma Arts Live, and performing with various bands. Most recently, she is involved in highly meaningful, heart-centered projects— one of which she is singing on an album of original songs by a New York-based songwriter. Ellen recalls fondly the nurturing environment she encountered at Justin-Siena and attributes her success in the arts and life to some of those early lessons. “I always felt like the Deckers, my teachers, and peers really believed in me and my abilities. I gained confidence while learning the importance of commitment and hard work, and I learned how to dream big and believe that it is possible to achieve those dreams.” Her JST credits included West Side Story (ensemble); Gypsy (Louise); Fiddler on the Roof (Hodel); Evita (Eva Perón). THE JST IMPACT: Justin-Siena Theatre helped me develop a deep sense of ambition, determination, professional work ethic, passion in my work, and confidence. ADVICE: Have fun! Don’t put pressure on yourself—just have fun! Don’t be afraid to be messy because that is life and theatre is a mirror for life. If you try to
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be perfect it will hold you back. PARTING THOUGHTS: Though my main source of income now is my growing international Rodan+Fields business and my work as a charity auctioneer, I just love that both of these jobs still keep me on stage!
Robert Francis ’09
Leaving Napa for Duke University, Robert certainly took his passion for theatre with him. “While I didn’t study theater, I was part of a student-run musical theater group that produced three musicals every year. Students did everything: acting, choreography, musical direction, playing in the orchestra, designing sets/costumes/lights, producing, and directing.” He is now in his final year of an MBA program at the NYU Stern School of Business specializing in Entertainment and credits his development at JS with steering him toward his current pursuits. “This past summer I worked at Disney Theatrical, Disney’s Broadway group, on the Strategy and Business Development team. I got a first-hand look at how Broadway theater is produced and managed. It was a truly fantastic experience. I hope to work in a similar strategy role in the entertainment industry after graduation.” Now, in his final year of business school, he is the president of a group that produces a year-end parody musical,
and he’s currently writing a show for this April. His JST credits included Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Benjamin); Arsenic and Old Lace (Dr. Einstein); The Complete Works of William Shakespeare [Abridged] (Adam); Cats (Skimbleshanks); Little Shop of Horrors (Seymour); Of Mice and Men (Curly); Damn Yankees (Sohovick); West Side Story (Tony); The Odd Couple (Felix); Les Miserables (Marius). JST IMPACT: JST had a huge impact on my life as I learned a lot about leadership, communication, and giving my all to deliver a quality final product. Not only is it the reason I am currently pursuing a career in entertainment, but it was also the foundation of so many of the skills that I took with me to my professional life. Through the process of creating and building theatrical productions, I learned basic skills that have enabled me to effectively communicate, manage teams of my peers, and achieve my goals in a professional setting. ADVICE: Go for it. Auditioning is the hardest part. Once you get past that, you will have a blast and learn things that can help you in many areas of your future, not just theater. PARTING THOUGHTS: Thinking back to JST, this highlight stands out: it was the finale of Les Mis during the last show of my senior year with the full cast singing together on stage and celebrating afterward. This moment was the emotional highlight of my time in high school. We shared collective pride in a job well done, happiness 39
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with our accomplishment, and sadness that it was over, and all those emotions blended together in a beautiful way.
Michael Starr ’10
Arguably, anyone in attendance at the 2009 production would share in Michael’s enthusiasm for his stand-out theatre memory of his time at the Home of the Braves—singing the title song in Singin’ in the Rain as the audience first saw actual rain begin to fall inside the North Gym. Michael thrived in the JST program. It was really the first time he discovered a group of peers that really treated each other like family. From late night rehearsals, to early matinees, to 12-hour tech rehearsals, he experienced a steadfast, committed, and dedicated family. “This bond between artists has shaped the way I tackle my career in the arts. Since earning a BA in musical; theater from UCLA, Michael has lived and acted in LA, also working for national tours, regional theaters, TV shows, Films, and Disneyland. Michael’s JST credits include Cats (Alonzo); Damn Yankees (Rocky); West Side Story (Riff); Odd Couple; Prisoner of Second Avenue; Les Miserables (Marius); Singin’ in the Rain (Don Lockwood); Dean Man Walking (Matthew Poncelet)
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JST IMPACT: When you fall, get back up. It’s a lesson I have to remind myself of quite a bit in the industry. But getting those first “falls” out of the way early helped quite a bit. ADVICE: Go for it! As I mentioned before, it’s almost a guarantee that with every theater production you will meet and discover a new family you never knew you had. Something about coming together to create a living breathing piece of art brings people together in a way that is unique and everlasting. PARTING THOUGHTS: I remember gaining respect and admiration from classmates who I never thought in a million years would appreciate theater. It takes equal parts bravery and vulnerability to be on stage, and when classmates who had no interest or background in the arts saw and understood that, I knew what we were creating was special.
Annemarie Mendonsa ’12
Annemarie credits her JS Theatre days for her team approach to tackling projects. “JST taught me that when a group of people with a common passion come together, they can create something truly remarkable.” Since earning a BS and then a MA from Santa Clara University, where joining an acapella group provided a great creative outlet and a new challenge. Annemarie now works
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as a Project Engineer (Bioengineering) at a medical device company in the Silicon Valley and is also a certified EMT. She recently became licensed as a Patent Agent and hopes to pursue that career path soon. Some of her best high school memories are from theatre. “I built strong friendships from the program, which is one of my best takeaways.” She recalls performing as Christine in The Phantom of the Opera at the Napa Performing Arts Center at Lincoln Theatre as a real highlight. Her JST credits included Les Miserables (Cosette understudy); West Side Story (Jets ensemble); Thoroughly Modern Millie (Miss Dorothy); Singin’ in the Rain (Ensemble); The Music Man (Marian Paroo); Pippin (Catherine); The Phantom of the Opera (Christine Daae). JST IMPACT: Participating in theatre taught me to see the world through different lenses with each character and how we brought their wonderful stories to life. JS Theatre helped me break out of my comfort zone and proved that hard work will always pay off!
year to try out for a Justin-Siena Theatre production, and it was at the urging of his father. Chalk it up, perhaps, to his fancy footwork on the football field, but he landed the lead in Footloose! Stephen literally learned the importance of cutting loose—in Footloose. “It taught me to go out of my comfort zone and try things that I never thought I’d do.” And while he didn’t pursue theatre in college, he used his commanding stage presence to lead many rallies. Last year he graduated from Azusa Pacific and is now working as an account executive at a tech firm in Oakland called Broadly, a company that provides affordable solutions to local businesses with a real focus on impacting the local community. In his spare time, he loves to support the local Bay Area theater scene. His JST credits included Footloose (Ren McCormack). JST IMPACT: Participating in theatre really opened my eyes to different types of people and to recognize all the hard work that goes into the arts and theatre—the hours of practice and repetition is something I highly admire—such commitment!
ADVICE: Leave it all on the stage. ADVICE: Just do it, and give it your all! PARTING THOUGHTS: Stay connected and always remind yourself that you are part of something incredibly special at Justin-Siena!
Stephen Panis ’13
Stephen, a prominent student-athlete for the Braves, waited until his senior
PARTING THOUGHTS: Teamwork makes the dream work! I was amazed at how much my friends had my back. It made me want to do well not only for the gathered audience but for my cast members as well—such a great life lesson I use in my professional life. 41
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Anything Goes 2014
Liliana Ramos ’14
After earning her degree in Business Marketing and Management from Dominican University of California, Liliana is putting her Justin-Siena theatre skills to work in her digital marketing career. She says most of her clients are affiliated with the arts. She also credits her time on the JS stage as a training ground for the marketing world. “I am who I am because of JS Theatre. I am not afraid to make a mistake, I am not afraid to speak in front of large crowds, I am confident.” Her JST credits included Thoroughly Modern Millie (ensemble); The Phantom of the Opera (ensemble); Footloose (ensemble); Pippin (ensemble/ dancer); Anything Goes (Reno’s Angels); and I Never Saw Another Butterfly (Irca). JST IMPACT: JS Theatre taught me how to be confident. I was a very shy girl before starting theatre but being on that stage you can’t be shy. You have to be big and bold! This has carried on throughout my life. People always tell me, ‘you hold yourself very confidently,’ and I can say that is from JS Theatre.
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ADVICE: Go in prepared to give it your all. Try for the role you want every time and if you don’t get it the first time keep trying! Because even if you don’t get the role you want the experience of JS Theatre will be what makes an impact. PARTING THOUGHTS: Motivation is everything! I recall when Mr. Bailey announced that the musical for the following year would be Anything Goes and it included a huge tap number—we learned advanced tap in the span of 4 months!
Max Risch ’14
After auditioning for many colleges during my senior year at Justin-Siena, I attended UCLA’s School of Theater, Film, and Television as a Theater Major with a concentration in Musical Theater. While there, I was part of many department and student shows alike, and was a member of the student theater group, Act III. Currently Max works as a Senior Production Assistant at Gracie Films, best known for producing The Simpsons, and in my down-time he takes classes at The Groundlings Theatre in Los Angeles, where they teach sketch comedy and improv, as well as occasionally auditioning around as an actor. “I’m not sure what I’ll be doing in the future, but right now I am doing something that I love and want to be a part of, and that’s what matters most to me. He credits is involvement in JST with laying a great foundation. “I would not be doing what I’m doing right now, and would not be as happy doing what I’m doing right
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now, if it had not been for the theatre program at Justin-Siena. Throughout high school, theatre was what I looked forward to morning, noon, and night. It was theatre that got me excited to go to school every day, and theatre that has impacted my life more directly than anything else I know. The people, the performing, there is nothing else quite like it.” His JST credits include Thoroughly Modern Millie (Ensemble); Phantom of the Opera (Phantom); Pippin (Pippin); ComedySportz (Player/Captain); Footloose (Ensemble); Almost, Maine (Jimmy/Randy); Anything Goes (Moonface Martin); and others. JST IMPACT: More than anything, Justin-Siena Theatre helped lay the foundation in teaching me how to be confident, both in myself, and in my work. ADVICE: Just do it. You will never meet people as loving as theatre people. You will never have a better opportunity to make a fool of yourself in front of so many, and how awesome is that? It is the most fun you could ever have if you allow yourself to be yourself and let loose.
Will Francis ’15
Will is completing a degree in literature at Duke University and credits his time with JS Theatre with making him a better writing and shaping his career path. He has fond memories, “My favorite show was absolutely Urinetown, but one of my favorite memories was getting
Urinetown 2015 to do the scene in Anything Goes where Reno is trying to seduce Lord Evelyn and it goes completely over his head. Theatrical pursuits fill most of his academic and free time at the moment. At Duke he’s done a musical, a play, improv, written a play and is currently producing a radio play from it. Will’s JST credits include Urinetown (Bobby Strong); Anything Goes (Lord Evelyn); Almost, Maine; Love Letters; I Never Saw Another Butterfly; Footloose; Pippin; and more. JST IMPACT: I learn how theatre is one of the best ways to build a community of people. It is remarkable how different people with different skills can come together to make something amazing that no one of them could do alone and how the act of performing can change who you are for the better. My time at ComedySportz, for example, absolutely changed the way I think in innumerable ways. ADVICE: Audition, take any part, even ensemble. It’s about the community that you find more than any particular role. Always listen to Lisa.
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PARTING THOUGHTS: I’m always amused by the memory of us helpless teenage boys being taught how to apply our own eyeliner and foundation by the makeup gals.
Meg Collins ’16
Crediting her involvement with JustinSiena Theatre—notably, ComedySportz— for carving her college path, Meg is working on a degree in Comedy Writing and Performance at Columbia College Chicago. When she’s not in class Meg can be found performing improv and sketches throughout theaters in Chicago, including iO, the Annoyance, the Playground, and Second City. She recalls an Ah Ha! moment: “At my senior year Arts Awards, I had received Most Fearless and MVP for ComedySportz, and Mr. Bailey had gotten a trophy of a rubber chicken in recognition of being a team manager. When I went on stage to receive the award, he hugged me and told me he was proud of me, and it made me feel like I could do anything.” Her JST credits include Footloose (ensemble), Once On This Island (Erzulie); ComedySportz 2014-2016; I Never Saw Another Butterfly (tech); Almost, Maine (tech); Twilight 44
Zone-A Stage Adaptation (tech); Charlotte’s Web (tech); and the 2014 and 2016 Dance Shows. JST IMPACT: Through JST I learned the importance of supporting an ensemble through ComedySportz. I also learned, especially through my involvement in musicals, that you will reap the rewards of the hard work you put in during rehearsals. Slacking off during rehearsals will show in performance. Additionally, I am grateful to be well versed in theater and comedic acting. If you don’t include the finesse of theater into your comedic work, it simply isn’t going to be as good. Theatrical elements heighten comedy to the nth degree. ADVICE: Work hard, no matter what part you play. Hard work will be recognized. PARTING THOUGHTS: My dad, Jim Collins ’77, was involved in four musicals throughout his time at Justin-Siena (Hello, Dolly! ’74, The Music Man ’75, Camelot ’76, Oklahoma! in ’77). He was in twice as many musicals as me—maybe he should have been the comedy major, and I should have been the accountant!
Alexandrea Yee ’17
Alexandra’s participation in theatre shaped her college plans and helped her find a sense of belonging that gave her the confidence to go after her goals. As she recalls is time at JS she fondly remembers a dress rehearsal for Urinetown. “We were on hold for a while so
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the conductor started playing different songs from Disney like “A Whole New World,” and we were all just on stage laughing and dancing. Alexandra is currently attending Sacramento State University where she is pursuing a degree in Theater. Her JST credits include Comedysportz, Urinetown, The Twilight Zone, The Birds, Once On This Island, and Her Infinite Variety. JST IMPACT: Theatre truly helped me find a sense of belonging and gave me a confidence in myself that helped me discover my own identity and that I’m capable of performing. I learned that it’s okay to make mistakes—just make a choice and make it right. ADVICE: Just do it. It never hurts to audition, and you never know if you could possibly get a role. Your cast becomes your second family. You might even discover you’re really good and find it to be a new passion.
Elizabeth Brazil ’18
sure the people I’m on stage with are doing well, or to help them if they’re not.” Her JST credits include Guys and Dolls (Adelaide); ComedySportz, Driven, and the 24-Hour Play Project. JST IMPACT: JS theatre, through strong role models such as Vivian McLaughlin, Lisa Clark-Schmeling, and James Bailey, taught me that giving up is not an option, but that giving your all and your energy to find a new path is. They taught me that I should put my endless amounts of energy to great use. ADVICE: Be yourself! Try your hardest, and if there’s anything holding you back, don’t let it show. PARTING THOUGHTS: I will be auditioning for open calls for shows such as Dear Evan Hansen and The National Tour of Rent later this year! I go into these auditions not hoping for a role, but hoping for new learning experiences that help me to grow as a person.
Liz is completing her first year at Marymount Manhattan College where she is pursuing a degree in communications and political science while auditioning for school productions and exploring the exciting possibilities and opportunities of living in NYC. As Liz considers her future career, her dream is to help people. And she developed that passion on the JST stage. While in theatre, I learned, “Take care of your partners. I always am grateful to take a step back and make 45
Justin-Siena Theatre 50th Anniversary Steering Committee Honorary Alumni Committee Alison Bretches ’95
Stepheny Moore ’95
Olivia Everett Dodd ’04
Jennifer Borchelt Quezada ’93
Matthew Farver ’94
Rian McCarroll Salvatierra ’96
William Francis ’15
Kristen Clark Seefeldt ’89
Diego Garcia ’94
Michael Starr ’10
Mary Gerlomes Keown ’11
Lisa La Fontaine Vincenzo ’87
Annemarie Mendonsa ‘12
Mikayla Weiner ’13
Chad Meyer ’93
Gala Planning Committee James Thomas Bailey
Eileen Mize
Caroline Bettencourt Gerlomes ’79
Annelise Schaufel
Michele Farver
Lisa Clark-Schmeling ’84
Fran Francis
Br. Kevin Slate, FSC
A GOLDEN THANK YOU MOTHERS & FATHERS IN THE ARTS Lead Theatre Coordinator, Annelise Schaufel Our parent support group for assisting with tickets, merchandise, meals, transportation, and more. We are very grateful for our parent support. If you would like become part of our parent support group, simply stop at the t-shirt table or box office to get information. 46
SPECIAL THANKS Napa Valley Performing Arts Center at Lincoln Theater Tom Durante ’93 and The Lux Productions Annelise Schaufel Richard Pallaziol, Weapons of Choice Barry Martin and Taylor Bartolucci ’00 of Lucky Penny Productions Mary Stornetta Patricia Moskowite Shawn Potter Austin Solis Mark Hiddleson Maria and Daniel Villaseñor Frye’s Printing, Inc
Thank you to Villa Corona, St. Helena and the Villaseñor Family for feeding the cast and crew!
The Hiddleson Family congratulates Justin-Siena Theatre on their 50th Anniversary Casey & Mark Hiddleson Sarena ’19 & Drake ’22 47
50th Anniversary Raffle All proceeds diretly benefit the Justin-Siena Theatre program to ensure shows like the ones you are currently enjoying continue to thrive!
Win BottleRock tickets and more!
The drawing will be held at the Gala Dinner on March 17. Need not be present to win.
Tickets: 1/$20 or 3/$50 On sale in the lobby through 3/17/19.
1st Prize:
Two (2) 3-Day General Admission Passes to the sold-out BottleRock (May 24-26, 2019) plus 2 Justin-Siena water bottles, baseball caps, and T-shirts
2nd Prize:
6 Liter (Imperial) bottle of 2009 Trinitas Cellars Old Vine Petite Sirah, Signed by wine proprietor Garrett Busch and a Premium Wing Corkscrew Wine Opener by Hicoup Kitchenware
3rd Prize:
A Basket of JustinSiena Theatre swag, one Double-Magnum/3L of 2006 Audace’ red wine and six bottles (750ml) of Audace’ red wine in a wooden box. All proceeds benefit the JustinSiena Theatre.
Youth Summer Theatre Camp
Be a part of the next chapter in Justin-Siena’s illustrious theatre history! Join Justin-Siena’s Director of Theatre, James Thomas Bailey and Justin-Siena’s Musical Director, Vivian McLaughlin this summer for stage fun. DETAILS AND REGISTRATION: WWW.JUSTIN-SIENA.ORG DATES:
June 24-28
AGES:
Boys/Girls ages 8–14
TIME:
8:30 am - 3:30 pm
LOCATION:
Lincoln Theater
DIRECTORS: James Thomas Bailey Vivian McLaughlin
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Casting Call
Check out the full line-up of sports and special camps. 2019 Summer Programs information and registration materials are available at www.justinsiena.org under the summer tab. Questions about Justin-Siena Summer Programs ? Andy Bettencourt abettencourt@justin-siena.org
BRAVES Alliance
Nearly 90% of our students participate in co-curricular athletics, arts, and more—an important part of a Justin-Siena education. Join the Braves Alliance and you can help ensure that these successful programs, which enrich the Justin-Siena experience for our students, continue to thrive.
RED AND BLUE SPONSORS ($5,000) Aubert Wines* Grieve Family Winery* Sangiacomo Family Wines BLUE SPONSORS ($3,000) Malloy, Imrie & Vasconi Insurance Services* Diane McMinds- UBS Wealth Management CLARK GYM SPONSORS ($1,500) Reynolds Family Winery* Bart Moore ’03- The Moore Group Savage & Cooke Quinlan’s Tire Service Inc. WHITE SPONSORS ($1,000) Kim McAlister Realty* Mary’s Pizza Shack* Ranch Market* Eric F. Gonzales – Merrill Lynch Wealth Management* Vasser Chevrolet and Toyota* Whitehall Lane Winery* Amine Khoury, DDS BRAVES SPONSORS ($500) Napa Electric* *These businesses were also 2017-18 Braves Alliance sponsors.
Join the Alliance!
Andrew Bettencourt ‘02 707.255.0950 ext. 645 abettencourt@justin-siena.org
Dare to be BRAVE DARE TO BECOME WHO YOU WERE MADE TO BE High school is a transformative time that can set the tone for the rest of your life. At Justin-Siena, students are nurtured and challenged to become the best version of themselves and to truly realize their full potential. DARE TO BE TRANSFORMED! MISSION STATEMENT Justin-Siena is a Catholic high school in the Lasallian tradition called to provide educational excellence in a loving, Christ-centered community that prepares students to serve and to lead in an ever-changing world. VISIT Brave for a Day/Shadow Be sure to check our online calendar for complete information on Arts and Athletic events. APPLY TODAY! Still enrolling for 2019! CONTACT Alicia Valdivia, Director of Admissions 707.255.0950 ext. 621 avaldivia@justin-siena.org VISIT US ONLINE: www.justin-siena.org
A Lasallian Catholic High School
Justin-Siena Theatre Production History 1969-2019 Under the Direction of Robert C. Morrish 1969 My Fair Lady 1970 Arsenic and Old Lace; Bye Bye Birdie 1971 Barefoot in the Park; Lily the Felon’s Daughter 1972 Mame 1973 The Wizard of Oz 1974 Hello, Dolly! 1975 The Widow Frankenstein Slept Here; The Music Man 1976 Camelot 1977 Oklahoma! 1978 Annie Get Your Gun 1979 Hello, Dolly! Under the Direction of Jerry Gardiner 1980 Damn Yankees; Ten Little Indians 1981 Anything Goes 1982 Little Mary Sunshine Under the Direction of Alex H. Urban 1982 Spoon River Anthology 1983 South Pacific 1984 Fiddler on the Roof; West Side Story 1985 Barnum; Godspell 1986 Grease 1987 The Wiz; The Fantasticks; A Christmas Carol 1988 Guys and Dolls; Little Shop of Horrors 1989 Carnival; Godspell 1990 Oliver!; West Side Story 1991 The Pirates of Penzance; Big River 1992 Grease; Into the Woods
1993 Starbound; Little Shop of Horrors 1994 Broadway Bound; A Chorus Line 1995 Once on This Island Under the Direction of Mary Fullerton 1995 Cyrano de Bergerac 1996 Little Women Under the Direction of Todd Decker & Kelly Daniel-Decker 1996 Anything Goes; The Matchmaker 1997 The Miss Firecracker Contest; How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying; A Midsummer Night’s Dream 1998 West Side Story; I Remember Mama 1999 Gypsy; The Terrifying Travels of Theseus, Greek Hero 2000 Fiddler on the Roof; Barefoot in the Park; The (Female) Odd Couple; Come Blow Your Horn 2001 Evita; Hamlet; Rosenkrantz & Guildenstern...are Dead 2002 Reckless; Guys and Dolls Under the Direction of Vivian McLaughlin 2002 Up the Down Staircase 2003 Six Characters in Search of an Author; Once Upon a Mattress; Inherit the Wind 2004 An Ideal Husband; Oklahoma!; Bye Bye Birdie 2005 The Man Who Came to Dinner; You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown Under the Direction of Matthew Teague Miller ’95 2005 Braves on Broadway; The Diary of Anne Frank 2006 Joseph and the Amazing Dreamcoat; Braves on Broadway: The Eight Keys to Success; Arsenic and Old Lace
2007 Complete Works of William Shakespeare; CATS; Little Shop of Horrors 2008 Of Mice and Men ; Damn Yankees; West Side Story 2009 The Odd Couple; The Prisoner of Second Avenue; Les Miserables; Singin’ in the Rain 2010 Dead Man Walking; The Music Man; Thoroughly Modern Millie 2011 The Phantom of the Opera Under the Direction of James Thomas Bailey 2011 ComedySportz High School League 2012 Pippin; I Never Saw Another Butterfly 2013 ComedySportz High School League; Footloose; Love Letters; Fahrenheit 451; Almost, Maine 2014 ComedySportz High School League; Anything Goes; Bang, Bang You’re Dead; The Twilight Zone – Live on Stage; Charlotte’s Web 2015 ComedySportz High School League; Urinetown; The Birds–A Modern Adaptation 2016 ComedySportz High School League; Once on This Island; 24-Hour Play Project; Her Infinite Variety; Love on the High Seas 2017 ComedySportz High School League; Sister Act; Driven 2018 ComedySportz High School League; Guys and Dolls; Our Town 2019 ComedySportz High School League; 50th Anniversary ENCORE
JUSTIN-SIENA is proud to be a member of the California Educational Theatre Association; the ComedySportz High School League®; the International Thespian Society; California Music Education Association; and the California Dance Education Association.