OKCPHIL Holiday edition program #2 for the 24-25 season
Julian Pellicano, guest conductor
Featuring Ashley Brown and Tony DeSare PG. 31
JERROD SHOUSE, President
Oklahoma Philharmonic Society, Inc.
Welcome to the Oklahoma City Philharmonic! We are delighted to welcome our loyal season subscribers, our generous philanthropic partners, and our first-time attendees. The magic of tonight’s concert is made possible by year-round effort, dedicated volunteers, and numerous donors. Since ticket sales only cover a portion of our concert expenses, we extend our deepest gratitude to our donors and volunteers for their invaluable support of our mission.
This year marks the 36th season of the OKCPHIL, where we continue to inspire and bring joy to the community through the beauty of orchestral music. We take pride in our legacy and look forward to an exciting future. A crucial part of our vision is to enrich the cultural fabric of our community and to educate future generations about the profound value of music. In pursuit of this vision, the OKCPHIL is more committed than ever to creating programs and concert experiences that unite our entire community.
Thanks to the expertise and passion of our Music Director, Maestro Alexander Mickelthwate, and our dynamic and dedicated staff led by Executive Director, Brent Hart, this season promises something for everyone. Our Classics, Pops, and Discovery concerts are sure to delight audiences of all ages and tastes. We encourage you to invite someone new to join us at a future concert and help us cultivate the audiences of tomorrow. On behalf of the entire Oklahoma City Philharmonic family, thank you for being here. We invite you to say “hello” to someone you haven’t met before and look forward to seeing you again soon!
GEETIKA VERMA, President Oklahoma City Orchestra League
On behalf of the Oklahoma City Orchestra League, we are thrilled to welcome you to another inspiring year of music.
It is an honor to address you as the President of the Orchestra League. Our league is a testament to the power of music to inspire, unite, and elevate the human spirit. As we embark on this new season, we are committed to fostering a community that celebrates excellence, innovation, and passion in orchestral music. Where words fail, music begins. It touches us emotionally and spiritually, uniting us in shared feeling and experience.
We invite you to join the league and support our musicians, promote educational initiatives, and bring the joy of orchestral performances to audiences far and wide. Thank you for being a part of this vibrant community. Let’s create harmonious and unforgettable experiences in the year ahead.
JAMES HULSEY, President Associate Board
On behalf of the Associate Board, welcome to the OKC Philharmonic’s 2024-2025 Season! This season promises a rich tapestry of musical styles that celebrate diverse cultures and geographies, performed by world-class musicians. We are thrilled to present a lineup that ensures every concert is a journey through community and culture, leaving you with a smile each time!
At the OKCPHIL, the Associate Board is dedicated to fostering community, culture, and connectivity, especially among young professionals. We achieve this through the Overture Society, offering concert packages that includes 3-4 concerts paired with engaging social events. Stay connected with us on social media, explore our Overture web page, and join us for what promises to be an exhilarating season!
Thank you for joining us! Your presence and support at our concerts contribute significantly to the vibrant orchestral music scene in our thriving city. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Dear Friends of the OKCPHIL,
BRENT HART
On behalf of the entire OKCPHIL family, welcome to our 2024-25 Season! We are thrilled to present another year of incredible performances and programs as we continue to serve our mission of bringing joy and inspiration through orchestral music to our community.
This season’s Classics Series features an array of inspiring programs, showcasing some of the most beloved works in the classical repertoire. Our concerts will feature a diverse range of instruments, including the organ, bagpipes, and sitar, along with beautiful violin performances by the renowned Midori and Sarah Chang. These compositions draw inspiration from nature, various cultures, and the unique sounds of the instruments themselves. We are excited to welcome Misha Dichter at the piano and Cameron Carpenter at the organ, performing extraordinary concertos. To learn more about the Classics programs, join us in the Concert Hall at 7:00 p.m. before each concert.
A highlight of our season is the World Premiere of American Indian Symphony, a new work by Chickasaw composer Jerod Tate. This symphony introduces native stories from different cultural regions across the country. We hope this piece resonates deeply with you and audiences worldwide. Our Classics Series will culminate with Richard Strauss’ Alpine Symphony, promising a breathtaking musical journey for us all.
The Chickasaw Nation Pops Series offers something for everyone, featuring the iconic music of your favorite artists and blockbuster Broadway musicals. Our cherished holiday tradition, A Very Merry Pops, will feature Ashley Brown and Tony DeSare for a soulful celebration of the season. We are also delighted to welcome back the immensely popular Pink Martini, who last captivated us in 2020!
At the Civic Center Music Hall and throughout our region, OKCPHIL remains committed to making music accessible through our Education and Community Engagement programs. From free outdoor orchestral concerts at Scissortail Park to music education programs and Youth Concerts for elementary school students, our initiatives enrich the lives of thousands of Oklahomans of all ages. Our Society of Strings program supports adult amateur string players, and our Young Musician Competition nurtures the talents of budding musicians.
We are deeply grateful for your ongoing loyalty, support, and generosity, which make all of this possible. Your ticket purchases, season subscriptions, and donations of all sizes enable us to deepen our impact on the community in countless ways.
Thank you for listening to our music, believing in our mission, and supporting us. I look forward to seeing you at our concerts throughout the season!
ALEXANDER MICKELTHWATE MUSIC DIRECTOR
As he prepares for his seventh season leading the Oklahoma City Philharmonic, Maestro Alexander Mickelthwate has become part of the community.
“It’s amazing, and also quite humbling,” Mickelthwate said. “My morning routine usually consists of studying at a local coffee shop. Quite often customers will approach me and say they saw me on television or on the side of a bus. To me, that signifies what we are doing at the OKCPHIL is resonating with the community, and making everyone feel welcome.”
The OKCPHIL has been a source of joy and inspiration for 36 years, enriching Oklahoma and its communities through orchestral music. When Mickelthwate came on board, he brought with him an eagerness to build on the successes of the past and pave the way for the future.
“Oklahoma City should be known as a breeding ground for fun and creativity,” he said. “That’s my thing. In our first season, we were always surprised how the audiences were really open to the contemporary. It’s crazy how embracing the audience is for adventurous, fun new things.”
Born and raised in Frankfurt, Germany, Mickelthwate grew up in a home filled with classical music. He received his degree from the Peabody Institute of Music, and has worked with orchestras in Atlanta, Winnipeg and Los Angeles. He is Music Director Emeritus of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra in Canada, and in 2022, accepted the position of Music Director for the prestigious Bear Valley Music Festival in Bear Valley, California. In early 2023, Mickelthwate traveled to Hanoi where he was Guest Conductor at the Vietnam National Symphony Orchestra.
Since he’s been in Oklahoma, Mickelthwate has received numerous awards and honors, including being named three time “The Face of Music” by 405 Magazine. Newspaper OKC Friday named him one of the “Top 50 Most Powerful,” and the Ladies Music Club of Oklahoma City lauded him “Musician of the Year.”
Accolades aside, one of Mickelthwate’s goals is to tell Oklahoma stories through music.
“When I first came to Oklahoma City, I read Sam Anderson’s book, ‘Boom Town,’ and from there I began studying Oklahoma’s colorful history,” he said. “We have so many great stories, and seeing them come to life through music is awe-inspiring. This season, we’ve programmed “World Premiere!” American Indian Symphony by Native American composer Jerod Tate. I want to continue bringing more of these stories to our audiences.”
When he’s not studying music or planning future OKCPHIL concerts, Mickelthwate is Artist in Residence at the University of Central Oklahoma where he enjoys working with the next generation of musicians, and conducting UCO’s symphony orchestra. After the music is over Mickelthwate loves spending time with his two sons, trying to beat them at ping pong, creating adventurous new recipes or improvising together on piano and guitar.
“My personal philosophy is that music has a way of reaching us in a way nothing else does,” Mickelthwate said. “It goes deep inside, creating and facilitating beauty in a harsh world. We want the Oklahoma City Philharmonic to be meaningful, to be fun and a place where we are all one. I have often said we feel the love, Oklahoma City. And we are giving it right back.
DR. SHANTI SIMON ASSOCIATE CONDUCTOR
Associate Conductor Dr. Shanti Simon joined the OKCPHIL team in September 2023, programming and conducting the Discovery Family Series concerts. Her engaging personality and lively programming resonate with children of all ages. She also conducts Youth Concerts for elementary school field trips at the Civic Center Music Hall, where thousands of students are captivated by hearing familiar songs performed by a live orchestra. Dr. Simon captures their full attention. This season, she will make her Pops debut conducting “Defying Gravity: Stephen Schwartz & Friends.”
“The OKCPHIL is a world-class orchestra and it is an honor to join this team of engaging professional musicians. We love sharing music with young people in a setting that resonates with their world view. Kids naturally move and engage with music in an uninhibited, inspiring way. They remind us professionals why we got into music in the first place – because music speaks to our souls deeply beyond the boundaries that words can reach. Music makes us want to move, to dance, and to sing. We are looking forward to an exciting season with you and the kids of all ages in your lives!,” said Simon.
In addition to her work with the OKCPHIL, Dr. Simon is the Director of Bands at the University of Oklahoma where she conducts the Wind Symphony and leads the graduate wind conducting program. Prior to joining the faculty at OU, Dr. Simon was the Flight Commander and Associate Conductor with The United States Air Force Academy Band in Colorado Springs. Before moving to Colorado, Simon served as Flight Commander and Associate Conductor with The United States Air Force Band in Washington, D.C., where she conducted performances in the national capital region and around the country including the 2011 National Tree Lighting Ceremony with the Airmen of Note, hosted by President Obama and the First Family. Dr. Simon was on the faculty of Shenandoah Conservatory as the Associate Director of Bands for the 20132014 academic year. In 2016, she deployed to the Middle East with the United States Air Force Central Command bands as the Officer-In-Charge, overseeing musical troop-support, community-outreach and partnership-building missions in seven countries.
Before joining the Air Force, Dr. Simon earned her MM and DMA degrees in conducting from the University of Minnesota where she studied with Craig Kirchhoff. She received her BME and BM degrees from Stetson University with Bobby Adams. Hailing from Florida, Simon served as the Associate Director of Bands at Vero Beach High School for four years, where her ensembles consistently earned top ratings in all areas of district and state assessment. Simon is active nationally and internationally as a guest conductor and clinician.
OKLAHOMA PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY,
PROVIDING INSPIRATION AND JOY THROUGH ORCHESTRAL MUSIC
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OFFICERS
Jerrod Shouse President
Jim Roth President Elect
Debbie McKinney Vice President
Louise Cleary Cannon Treasurer
Jennifer Schultz Kouandjio Secretary
Jane Jayroe Gamble Immediate Past President
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
John Allen General Manager
Jose Batty Music Librarian
Austin Bewley Data Analyst
Mason Board
Graphic Design and Digital Marketing Coordinator
Blossom Crews Director of Development
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Classical KUCO 90.1 Morningstar Properties
PHOTOGRAPHERS:
LIFETIME DIRECTORS
Jane B. Harlow
Patrick Alexander
DIRECTORS
Tracey Budz
Robert Clements
Lawrence H. Davis
Kevin Dunnington
Joy Hammons
Kirk Hammons
Honorable Jerome A. Holmes
James Hulsey
Debra Kos Jared Davis Patron Services Lead
Kate Furney Marketing Associate
Daniel Hardt Finance Director
Brent Hart Executive Director
Judy Hill Office Manager
Chase Kerby Education Manager
Kristian Kos
Tom Lerum
Matt Paque
Craig Perry
Sam Rainbolt
Robert Ruiz
Kelly Sachs
Amalia Miranda Silverstein
Doug Stussi
Geetika Verma
Evan Walter
Travis Weedn
Wendi Wilson
Joel Levine Archivist/Historian
Clint Moore
Guest Artist Liaison
Jenni Shrum Marketing and Public Relations Director
Hannah Stewart Development Manager
Valorie Tatge Orchestra Personnel Manager
Oklahoma City Police Association George Ryan
Michael Anderson, Jesse Edgar Photography, Simon Hurst, and Shevaun Williams and Associates
THE OKLAHOMA PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY, INC.
424 Colcord Drive, Ste. B • Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73102
The Oklahoma City Philharmonic Foundation was established to provide leadership and endowment expertise to help ensure a stable financial base for orchestral music and musical excellence in Oklahoma City for generations to come. Distributions from the Oklahoma City Philharmonic Foundation provide a meaningful and secure source of annual income for the Philharmonic’s operations, continually confirming the importance of endowment in an organization’s long-range planning and overall success.
Current officers and directors of the Oklahoma City Philharmonic Foundation are:
OFFICERS
Douglas J. Stussi, President
Charles E. Wiggin, First Vice President
Jeff Starling, Second Vice President
Louise Cleary Cannon, Treasurer
Alice Pippin, Secretary
DIRECTORS
Steven C. Agee
Patrick B. Alexander
J. Edward Barth
L. Joe Bradley
Andre’ B. Caldwell
Teresa L. Cooper
Paul Dudman
Jane Jayroe Gamble
Mischa Gorkuscha
Jane B. Harlow
Jean A. Hartsuck
Michael E. Joseph
Duke R. Ligon
Penny McCaleb Erik Salazar
Patrick E. Randall, II Richard Tanenbaum
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Geetika Verma President
Debra Kos
Immediate Past President
Rachael Geiger President-Elect
Orchestra League Office 424 Colcord Dr., Ste. B
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73102
Phone: (405) 232-7575
Fax: (405) 232-4353
e-mail: league@okcphil.org
OFFICERS
James Hulsey President
Desiree Singer
Immediate Past President
Mady Hendryx President-Elect
Daniel Karami
Secretary Kelsey Karper
Marketing Chair
Ashleigh Robinson
Social Chair
Members: Piper Allred
Ragan Franklin
THE ORCHESTRA
THIRTY-SIXTH SEASON
ALEXANDER MICKELTHWATE, Music Director and Conductor
Chandler Fadero, Principal, McCasland Foundation Chair
Angélica Pereira, Assistant Principal
Sophia Ro
Sarah Sanford Brown
Corbin Mace
Catherine Reaves, Assistant Principal Emeritus
Audrey Lee
Yajing (Cindy) Zhang
Paulo Eskitch
VIOLA
Royce McLarry, Principal
Mark Neumann, Assistant Principal
Joseph Guevara
Kelli Ingels
Steve Waddell
Donna Cain
Brian Frew
CELLO
Jonathan Ruck, Principal, Orchestra League Chair
Kevin Flynn, Assistant Principal
Valorie Tatge
Emily Stoops
Jim Shelley
Angelika Machnik-Jones
Jean Statham
Samantha Kerns
BASS
Anthony Stoops, Principal
Larry Moore, Assistant Principal
Christine Craddock
Mark Osborn
Taylor Dawkins
DoYoun Kim
FLUTE
Valerie Watts, Principal
Parthena Owens
Nancy Stizza-Ortega
PICCOLO
Nancy Stizza-Ortega
OBOE
Lisa Harvey-Reed, Principal
Rachel Maczko
Katherine Casto
ENGLISH HORN
Rachel Maczko
CLARINET
Bradford Behn, Principal
Tara Heitz
James Meiller
BASS/E-FLAT CLARINET
James Meiller
BASSOON
Rod Ackmann, Principal
James Brewer
Tyler Van Zuiden
CONTRABASSOON
Tyler Van Zuiden
HORN
Kate Pritchett, Principal, G. Rainey Williams Chair
James Rester*
Mirella Gable*
Matt Reynolds
TRUMPET
Karl Sievers, Principal
Jay Wilkinson
Michael Anderson
TROMBONE
Philip Martinson, Principal
Hope Bellows
John Allen, Bass Trombone
TUBA
Ted Cox, Principal
TIMPANI
Jamie Whitmarsh, Principal
PERCUSSION
Patrick Womack, Principal
Stephanie Krichena
Roger Owens
HARP
Gaye LeBlanc, Principal
PIANO
Peggy Payne, Principal *on leave for 2024-25 season
PRODUCTION STAFF
John Allen, General Manager
Valorie Tatge, Personnel Manager
Jose Batty, Librarian
Clint Moore, Guest Artist Liaison
Ken Dines, Stage Crew Leader
PLANNED GIVING
The Oklahoma Philharmonic Society, Inc. is honored to recognize its EncoreSociety members — visionary thinkers who have provided for the future of the Oklahoma City Philharmonic through their estate plans.
Anonymous (3)
Steven C. Agee, Ph.D.
Linda and Patrick Alexander
Gary and Jan Allison
Louise Cleary Cannon
Mr. and Mrs. Robert H. Clements
Thomas and Rita Dearmon
Dr. and Mrs. James D. Dixson
Dr. Ralph and Lois Ganick
Hugh Gibson
Pam and Gary Glyckherr
Carey and Gayle Goad
Ms. Olivia Hanson
Jane B. Harlow
Dr. and Mrs. James Hartsuck
Mr. and Mrs. Michael E. Joseph
THANK YOU
Joel Levine and Don Clothier
John and Caroline Linehan
Mr. and Mrs. Marvin C, Lunde, Jr.
Mrs. Jackie Marron
Mr. and Mrs. John McCaleb
Mrs. Jean McLaughlin
W. Cheryl Moore
Carl Andrew Rath
Mrs. Cathy Reaves
Mrs. Lil Ross
Dr. Lois Salmeron
Mr. and Mrs. William F. Shdeed
Doug and Susie Stussi
Larry and Leah Westmoreland
Mr. John S. Williams
Mrs. Carolyn Zachritz
The Oklahoma Philharmonic Society, Inc. is grateful for the support of caring patrons who want to pass on a legacy of extraordinary music to future generations. You can join this special group of music enthusiasts by including a gift for the OKC Philharmonic’s future in your own will or estate plan. For more information on how to become an Encore Society member, contact the Philharmonic’s Development Office at (405) 232-7575.
MEET OUR FAMILY
THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE MUSIC
Hello! My name is Matthew Reynolds and I am the 4th French Horn for the OKCPHIL and Assistant Professor of Horn at the University of Oklahoma. My college horn professors were Jeffrey Powers (retired) at Baylor University, Dr. Nicholas Smith (retired) at Wichita State University, and Dr. Kristy Morrell at the University of Southern California.
I have also played with many other professional orchestras such as the Tulsa Symphony, Wichita Symphony, Waco Symphony, Wichita Grand Opera, Downey Symphony, and Los Angeles Doctors Symphony, just to name a few. I am also a freelance musician, performing in smaller groups such as church services, recording projects, pop gigs, and more.
Before my teaching position at OU, I taught private lessons to students of all ages for 10 years, and continue to do so in my free time. During my time at OU so far, I have been a featured soloist with the Symphony Band at OU, was invited as a guest artist at the 2024 Midsouth Horn Conference and 2024 International Horn Symposium, and have also been invited to perform and give masterclasses at several universities such as the University of LouisianaMonroe and University of Arkansas.
Marketing Associate OKCPHIL Staff
Hello! My name is Kate, and I was born and raised in Dallas, Texas. I didn’t arrive in Oklahoma until I moved here to attend the University of Oklahoma. I received my bachelor’s degree with a major in Creative Media Production and a minor in Entrepreneurship. While I was in school, I was heavily involved in multiple student and professional groups. After graduation, I decided that Oklahoma City was the place for me.
I’m a huge film nerd, and it’s amazing to see how a great score can bring a film to life. So, when I saw there was an open position in marketing at the OKC Philharmonic, I knew it would be the perfect place for me! I love the work we do and the team that makes it all happen.
Outside of the office, I’m usually pretty busy either keeping up with friends or perfecting my newest hobby. I enjoy video games, reading, and baking, as well as volleyball and dance!
MATTHEW REYNOLDS
KATE FURNEY
GIFTS TO THE PHIL
The Oklahoma City Philharmonic gratefully acknowledges the commitment and generosity of individuals, corporations, foundations, and government agencies that support our mission. To help us provide inspiration and joy to the community through live orchestral performances and a variety of education and community engagement programs, please contact the Philharmonic’s Development Office at (405) 232-7575.
This Annual Fund recognition reflects contributions made in the 2024-25 Season through October 7, 2024.
If your name has been misspelled or omitted, please accept our apologies and inform us of the error by calling the phone number listed above. Thank you for your generous support!
UNDERWRITER
$25,000 - $49,999
Dr. Margaret Freede-Owens and Daniel Owens
Dr. Amalia Silverstein
E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation
Oklahoma City Philharmonic Foundation
Robert Glenn Rapp Foundation
The Ann Lacy Foundation
GUARANTOR
$10,000 - $24,999
Linda and Patrick Alexander
Lawrence H. & Ronna C. Davis
Providing leadership support.
Gerald Gamble and Jane Jayroe Gamble
Jane B. Harlow
Barbara and Edward Krei
Joel Levine and Don Clothier
Larry and Polly Nichols
The Salmeron Family
Susie and Doug Stussi
John Walker
Ad Astra Foundation
American Fidelity Foundation
Devon Energy Corporation
OG&E
Oklahoma City Community Foundation
W&W Steel, LLC
BENEFACTOR
$5,000 - $9,999
Steven C. Agee, Ph.D.
Margaret and John Biggs
Dr. and Mrs. L. Joe Bradley
Martha and Ronnie Bradshaw
Louise Cleary Cannon and Gerry Cannon
Mr. and Mrs. Robert H. Clements
Terri Cooper
Mr. David Daugherty
Darleene Harris
Ruth Mershon Fund
Glenna and Dick Tanenbaum
Clements Foods Foundation
Mekusukey Oil Company, LLC
CORPORATIONS, FOUNDATIONS & GOVERNMENT AGENCIES
SUSTAINERS
$2,500 - $4,999
Oklahoma Allergy & Asthma Clinic
Oklahoma Craft
Omni Hotels
ASSOCIATES
$1,500 - $2,499
AEIOU Foundation
Dr. Elliott Schwartz and Pam Shanklin
Bank of Oklahoma
M.V. Williams Foundation Inc.
GIFTS TO THE PHIL
INDIVIDUALS
Providing essential support for the Annual Fund.
SUSTAINER
$2,500-$4,999
Anonymous
Albert and Virginia Aguilar
Dr. and Mrs. Dewayne Andrews
Dr. and Mrs. John C. Andrus
Mr. J. Edward Barth
Betty D. Bellis-Mankin
Donna and Nels Bentson
Dr. and Mrs. Philip C. Bird
Robert and Karen Browne
Family Fund
Phil G. and Cathy Busey
Mr. and Mrs. David C. DeLana
Mr. Sidney G. Dunagan
Druanne and David Durrett
Dr. Thurma J. Fiegel
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph M. Fleckinger
Fred and Karen Hall
Kirk Hammons
Dr. James Hartsuck
Colonel (ret.) Dean and Mrs. Jeanne Jackson
Tom and Cindy Janssen
Kathy and Terry Kerr
Tom and Jane Lerum
Mari Cook Medley
Mr. Charles Oppenheim
Phil and Alice Pippin
Jerry and Jan Plant
Mr. H.E. Rainbolt
Mr. Larry Reed
Mrs. Lil Ross
Ernesto and Lin Sanchez
Dr. and Mrs. Hal Scofield
Jeff and Kim Short
John and Katherine Spaid
Mr. and Mrs. John E. Stonecipher
John Stuemky and James Brand
Billie Thrash
Janie Pryor Tubb
Mrs. June Tucker
Dr. James and Mrs. Elizabeth Wise
Ms. Jeanise Wynn
ASSOCIATE
$1,500 - $2,499
Nancy and Louis Almaraz
Ms. Beth M. Alonso
Zonia Armstrong
Dr. Mary Zoe Baker
Dr. Sterling and Cheryl Baker
Mr. J. Edward Barth
Dr. and Mrs. William L. Beasley
William Beck
Nick and Betsy Berry
Dr. and Mrs. Charles Bethea
Bart Binning
Dr. Robert and Kristin Blakeburn
Ms. Pamela Bloustine
Mike and Dawn Borelli
Mr. and Mrs. Del Boyles
Mrs. Phyllis L. Brawley
Mrs. Carole S. Broughton
Mr. and Mrs. Pete Brown
William Cameron
J. Christopher and Ruth Carey
Ms. Janice B. Carmack
Drs. Fong Chen and Helen Chiou
Mrs. Nancy Coleman
Cynthia Cortright
Patricia Czerwinski
Chuck Darr
William E. Davis and Margaret H. Davis - Charles and Libbi Davis Legacy Fund
Ms. Vickie Dennis
Gary and Fran Derrik
Mr. Joel Dixon
Dr. Matthew Draelos and Mrs. Jenie Draelos
Nancy Payne Ellis
Dr. and Mrs. Royice B. Everett
Paul and Debbie Fleming
Mr. and Mrs. Kelly George
Natalie Kurkjian and Christopher Geyer
Mrs. Ann Felton Gilliland
Mr. Kent Graham
Dr. Stephen Hamilton and Dr. Pamela Craven Hamilton
David and Sandra Haskett
Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence K. Hellman
Walt and Jean Hendrickson
Frank and Bette Jo Hill
Mr. and Mrs. Joe R. Homsey, Jr.
Thomas and Elizabeth Hrubik
Leslie and Cliff Hudson
David and Vicki Hunt
Ashley Hurley
Mary L. Jarvis
Mr. and Mrs. Carlos Johnson
Zach Johnson
Kim and Michael Joseph
Mike and Kay Kellogg
Drs. Dan and Diana Kennedy
Aaron and Jennifer Ketter
David Kinnard
Debra Klingenhoffer
Debra and Kristian Kos
Mike and Kay Lacey
Richard and Dr. Barbara Masters
William and Oxana Matthey
Mr. and Mrs. John A. McCaleb
Cindy and Johnny McCharen
Debbie McKinney
John and Anna McMillin
Robert and Kathy Mendez
Sandra Meyers
Tom and Katherine Milam
Peggy and Tom Miller
Betsy Mitschke and Steven Helt
Dustin and Krystal Murer
Dr. Gene L. Muse
Steven Newell and Deborah Naylor
Edward Oliver and Harriet Lord
Kathleen Oliver
Fatima Abrantes-Pais
Deann Merrit Parham
Mrs. Pat Potts
Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth R. Rees
Tracey Romberger
Donald Rowlett
Patricia and Larry Sanford
Maria and Fred Schmitt
Mary and John Seward
Emma and John Shelton
Robert and Susan Shoemaker
Jamie and Jerrod Shouse
Rick and Amanda Smith
Donald J. Smock, M.A.
Susan Sutter
Mr. James Taylor
Michelle Tompkins
Robert and Sharon Varnum
Tony and Pam Dela Vega
Drs. Bobby and Geetika Verma
Mrs. Judie Webb
HOUSE NOTES
RESTROOMS are conveniently located on all levels of the theater. Please ask your usher for guidance.
LATECOMERS and those who exit the theater during the performance may be seated during the first convenient pause, as determined by the management.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES must be turned off and put away during the performance (no calling, texting, photo or video use please).
BEVERAGES: Bottled water is permitted in the theater at the Classics Series concerts. Beverages are permitted in the theater at the Pops Series concerts; however, bringing coffee into the theater is discouraged due to the aroma.
SMOKING in the Civic Center Music Hall is prohibited. The Oklahoma City Philharmonic promotes a fragrance-free environment for the convenience of our patrons.
FIRE EXITS are located on all levels and marked accordingly. Please note the nearest exit for use in case of an emergency.
ELEVATORS are located at the south end of the atrium lobby of the Civic Center Music Hall.
CHILDREN of all ages are welcome at the Philharmonic Discovery Family Series and Holiday Pops performances; however, in consideration of the patrons, musicians and artists, those under five years of age will not be admitted to evening Classics and Pops concerts unless otherwise noted.
BOOSTER SEATS for children are available in the Civic Center lobby. Please inquire at the Box Office.
STUDENT RUSH TICKETS are available with a high school or university I.D. and email address at the box office 1 hour prior to the start of each Philharmonic performance. Or may be purchased online the Wednesday prior to each concert for $11. Limit: 2 tickets per I.D. Tickets are offered based on availability only and seats may be located throughout the theatre.
VIDEO MONITORS are located in the lobby for your convenience.
WHEELCHAIR AVAILABLE SEATING – Persons using wheelchairs or with walking and climbing difficulties will be accommodated when possible. Those wishing to use the designated wheelchair sections may purchase the wheelchair space and a companion seat. Please inform the Philharmonic or Civic Center Box Office staff of your need when ordering tickets so that you may be served promptly and appropriately. Please request the assistance of hall ushers to access wheelchair seating.
HEARING LOOPS have been installed. Ask your audiologist to activate the telecoil in your hearing aid or cochlear implant. Due to the mechanics of the stage, the hearing loops do not reach the pit section but are available at the Box Office and the Thelma Gaylord Performing Arts Theatre. The copper wire in the floor and telecoil work together to connect the hearing device to the theater’s sound system using a magnetic field which dramatically improves sound clarity for patrons using hearing devices.
LOST & FOUND is located in the Civic Center office (405-594-8300) weekdays 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
PHILHARMONIC TICKET OFFICE may be contacted by calling 405-TIC-KETS (405-842-5387) or you can visit the Philharmonic Ticket Office located on the first floor of the Arts District Garage at 424 Colcord Drive in Suite B. The Philharmonic Ticket Office is open Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and by phone on concert Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
CIVIC CENTER BOX OFFICE hours are Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and two hours prior to each performance. (405-594-8300)
ARTISTS, PROGRAMMING, AND DATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
JOHN WILLIAMS
Feature Film with Orchestra
NOVEMBER 30, 2024, 2:00 AND 8:00 P.M.
THERE WILL BE ONE INTERMISSION
JULIAN PELLICANO, CONDUCTOR
Music.
CREDITS
STAR WARS: RETURN OF THE JEDI IN CONCERT
Star Wars Film Concert Series
Star Wars: Return of the Jedi
Starring
Mark Hamill
Harrison Ford
Carrie Fisher
Billy Dee Williams
Anthony Daniels As C-3po
Co-Starring
David Prowse
Kenny Baker
Peter Mayhew
Frank Oz
Directed by Richard Marquand
Produced by Howard Kazanjian
Screenplay by Lawrence Kasdan and George Lucas
Story by George Lucas
Executive Producer
George Lucas
Music by John Williams
MPAA PG Rating
Presentation Licensed by
In a career spanning more than six decades, John Williams has become one of America’s most accomplished and successful composers for film and the concert stage. He remains one of our nation’s most distinguished and contributive musical voices. He has composed the music for more than one hundred films, including all nine Star Jurassic Park, Saving Private films. He served as music director of the Boston Pops Orchestra for fourteen seasons and remains their Laureate Conductor. He has composed numerous works for the concert stage including two symphonies and more than a dozen concertos commissioned by some of America’s most prominent orchestras. He has received five Academy Awards and fifty-four Oscar nominations, seven British Academy Awards, twenty-five Grammys, four Golden Globes, and five Emmys. His other honors include the Kennedy Center Honors, the National Medal of Arts, an honorary KBE from Queen Elizabeth II, the Life Achievement Award from the American Film Institute, Spain’s Princess of Asturias Award for the Arts, and the Gold Medal from the UK’s prestigious Royal Philharmonic Society.
JULIAN PELLICANO
Known for his versatility across a broad spectrum of genres, dynamic interpretations and meticulous technique, American-Canadian conductor Julian Pellicano has been recently appointed to the conducting staff of the National Ballet of Canada and is Music Director and Principal Conductor of Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet. Bringing an incisive musicality and collaborative spirit to every performance, he has built a wide-ranging international career leading the Winnipeg Free Press to proclaim that “his versatility is truly astonishing.”
Associate conductor of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra from 2013 - 2024, Julian conducted hundreds of performances on all of the orchestra’s various series, contributed to the development of the orchestra’s programming and established himself in the community as an ambassador for the WSO. As a guest he has conducted orchestras and ballet companies across North America and abroad.
Highly experienced with live-to-film performances, Mr. Pellicano’s film project credits encompass more than 25 titles including many legendary films scored by John Williams, recent blockbusters, and classic films of the “Golden Age” of Hollywood.
Julian Pellicano studied conducting at the Yale School of Music with Shinik Hahm and he studied percussion at the Peabody Conservatory, the Royal College of Music in Stockholm, Sweden, and at the Yale School of Music. As a percussionist, he has performed in concert halls and festivals in North America, Europe and Asia. He also holds a degree in philosophy from The Johns Hopkins University.
STAR
CREDITS
Star Wars Film Concert Series
Star Wars: Return of the Jedi
Production Credits
President, Disney Music Group
Ken Bunt
SVP/GM, Disney Concerts
Chip McLean
Supervising Technical Director
Alex Levy – Epilogue Media
Film Preparation
Ramiro Belgardt
Business Affairs, Lucasfilm
Rhonda Hjort
Chris Holm
For Booking Inquires: Emily.Yoon@TeamWass.com
Music Preparation
Mark Graham
Matthew Voogt
JoAnn Kane Music Service
Disney Music Library
Operations, Disney Concerts
Brannon Fells
Royd Haston
Marketing & Publicity
Lisa Linares
Lillian Matulic
VP, Disney Concerts
Gina Lorscheider
Business Affairs, Disney Concerts
Darryl Franklin
Leigh Zeichick
Neiloofar Sajedi
Narine Minasian
Elena Contreras
Addison Granillo
Christy Swintek
Svetlana Tzaneva
Business Affairs, Warner-Chappell
Scott McDowell
A VERY MERRY POPS
DECEMBER 6, 2024, 8:00 P.M. • DECEMBER 7, 2024, 2:00 P.M. AND 8:00 P.M.
ALEXANDER MICKELTHWATE, CONDUCTOR
PROGRAM
A VERY MERRY POPS
Featuring Ashley Brown and Tony DeSare
program to be chosen from the following
A Christmas Festival Tactus
Most Wonderful Time of the Year
Ashley Brown & Tony DeSare
Winter Wonderland
Ashley Brown & Tony DeSare
I Wonder as I Wander
Ashley Brown
Santa Claus is Comin to Town
Tony DeSare
Secret of Christmas
Ashley Brown
Deck the Halls
Tony DeSare
Let it Snow
Ashley Brown & Tony DeSare
Kris Kringle’s Okie Jingles
Race Dance Collective’s Red Dirt Tap Company
Happy Holidays/It’s the Holiday Season
Ashley Brown & Tony DeSare
Baby It’s Cold Outside
Ashley Brown & Tony DeSare
Sleigh Ride
Tony DeSare
Christmas for You and Me
Tony DeSare
12 Days of Christmas
Holiday Hits
Ashley Brown & Tactus
21 Versions of Jingle Bells
Tony DeSare
O Holy Night
Ashley Brown & Tactus
Jingle Jangle Sing Along
Ashley Brown & Tony DeSare
Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
Ashley Brown & Tony DeSare
GUEST ARTIST
ASHLEY BROWN
Ashley Brown originated the title role in Mary Poppins on Broadway, for which she received Outer Critics, Drama League, and Drama Desk nominations for Best Actress. Ms. Brown also starred in the national tour of Mary Poppins, garnering a Garland award for “Best Performance in a Musical.” Ms. Brown’s other Broadway credits include Belle in The Beauty and The Beast and the national tour of Disney’s On The Record. Ms. Brown most recently starred as Mother Abbess in multiple Tony Award-winning director Jack O’Brien’s new production of The Sound of Music. Starring in the Lyric Opera of Chicago’s production of Oklahoma brought her further critical acclaim. She previously played Magnolia opposite Nathan Gunn in Francesca Zembello’s Showboat at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Ms. Brown has performed with virtually all of the top orchestras in North America, including the Boston Pops, the New York Philharmonic, The Hollywood Bowl Orchestra at Disney Hall, The Pittsburgh Symphony, the New York Pops at Carnegie Hall (five times), Fort Worth Symphony, the Cincinnati Pops, Philadelphia Orchestra (two times), the Milwaukee Symphony, the Indianapolis Symphony (three times), Seattle Symphony, the Houston Symphony, Vancouver Symphony, Jacksonville (twice), and the Philly Pops. She has also performed with the BBC orchestra opposite Josh Groban. Ms. Brown made her solo concert debut at The Kennedy Center as part of Barbara Cook’s Spotlight Series, and has appeared in New York City at prestigious venues including Feinstein’s at the Regency and Birdland. Other projects include star turns in The Golden Apple at City Center Encores, Hello Dolly at The Goodspeed Opera House, The Sound of Music at the St. Louis MUNY (for which she won a Kevin Kline award), Limelight at the La Jolla Playhouse, and her own PBS special entitled “Ashley Brown: Call Me Irresponsible,” which received a PBS Telly Award. Other television credits include NBC’s The Sound of Music. Ms. Brown is the voice of Disneyland’s 60th anniversary celebrations, singing the newly-penned Richard Sherman song “A Kiss Goodnight.” Both Ms. Brown’s album of Broadway and American Songbook standards “Speak Low” and her newly recorded Christmas EP “The Secret of Christmas” are available on Ghostlight/Warner Brothers. Ms. Brown is a graduate of the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music.
GUEST ARTIST
TONY DESARE
Tony DeSare performs with infectious joy, wry playfulness and robust musicality. Named a Rising Star Male Vocalist in Downbeat magazine, DeSare has lived up to this distinction by winning critical and popular acclaim for his concert performances throughout North America and abroad. From jazz clubs to Carnegie Hall to Las Vegas headlining with Don Rickles and major symphony orchestras, DeSare has brought his fresh take on old school class around the globe. DeSare has four top ten Billboard jazz albums under his belt and has been featured on the CBS Early Show, NPR, A Prairie Home Companion, the Today Show and his music has been posted by social media celebrity juggernaut, George Takei. DeSare has also collaborated with YouTube icons Postmodern Jukebox. DeSare’s Lush Life recording, debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard Traditional Jazz Chart and he released Song Diaries Vol. 2 in early 2022, now streaming on all platforms.
Notwithstanding his critically acclaimed turns as a singer/pianist, DeSare is also an accomplished award-winning composer. He not only won first place in the USA Songwriting Contest, but has written the theme song for the motion picture, My Date with Drew, several broadcast commercials and has composed the full soundtracks for the Hallmark Channel’s Love Always, Santa, Lifetime’s Nanny Nightmare and Lifetime’s new A Welcome Home Christmas. His sound is romantic, swinging and sensual, but what sets DeSare apart is his ability to write original material that sounds fresh and contemporary, yet pays homage to the Great American Songbook. His compositions include a wide-range of romantic, funny, and soulful sounds that can be found on his top-selling recordings.
DeSare’s forthcoming appearances include the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Houston Symphony, Nashville Symphony, Virginia Symphony and Artis-Naples/Naples Philharmonic.
DeSare releases new recordings, videos of standards and new originals regularly on his YouTube channel, Apple Music and Spotify. Follow Tony on Facebook, Instagram and subscribe on YouTube to stay connected.
Tony DeSare is a Yamaha Artist.
GUEST ARTIST
RACE DANCE COLLECTIVE
RACE Dance Collective is a 501c3 nonprofit whose mission is to ignite social awareness and change through dance performance, education, and community engagement. Established in 2008, RACE has redefined the traditional dance company model by integrating professional dancers and recreational adult movers throughout its community into its comprehensive programming. This approach ensures that individuals of all skill levels can benefit from and engage with dance to support an inclusive and more connected community. Since its founding, RACE has produced over 40 full-length performances, including the popular holiday event RACE’s Hip-Hop Nutcracker. RACE productions have engaged over 10,000 audience members and employed over 500 local artists, while its community dance studio, RACE the Space, provides over 500 classes annually to over 3,200 dance enthusiasts across the metro.
Tonight’s performance features RACE Dance Collective’s Red Dirt Tap Company:
Megan Murry
Sheri Hayden
Emily Paige Cleek
Judge Kabrick
Ashlee Harder
Ira McCurry
Choreographed by Megan Murry and Shery Hayden
TACTUS
Tactus Chamber Orchestra & Vocal Ensemble is dedicated to providing concert experiences that are engaging, exciting and inspiring. Rooted in the classical tradition, Tactus performs great music on innovative concert programs with repertoire including music that is more than a thousand years old as well as music that is brand new. With a flexible roster of professional artists from Oklahoma and around the country, Tactus builds its ensembles around the music of a given concert, allowing for flexibility, collaboration, and artistry at the highest level. Known for innovative programming, Tactus concerts often combine music with images and poetry to create a compelling audience experience. Said one recent concertgoer, “It was sublime. I truly felt like I was taken on a musical journey.”
The 2024-25 season includes a performance of Handel’s Messiah in the original baroque style, as well as the world premiere of Songs of the Prairie, a multimedia concert of music inspired by the ecosystem of the great plains, composed by Music Director Warren Puffer Jones.
Tactus (pronounced tock-tooss) is a Latin word meaning touched, moved or felt. In musical usage, it refers to the pulse or beat that undergirds every piece of music.
More information at www.tactusensemble.org.
GIFTS TO THE PHIL
INDIVIDUALS
Continued from page 21
Bob and Tammy Weiss
Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth K. Wert
Larry L. and Leah A. Westmoreland
Drs. Ryan Williams and Melissa Plamann
Mrs. Carol Wright
Blake and Nancy Yaffe
FRIEND
$1,000 - $1,499
Hugh G. and Sharon Adams
Glenn and Debra Blumstein
Rev. Dr. Carl Bosteels, D.Min.
Louise Cheek
Dr. Thomas Coniglione
William Cook
Dr. and Mrs. Ralph G. Ganick
George M. and Jo Hall
Mr. Mark Harder
The Honorable Jerome A. Holmes
Lois and Roger Hornbrook
Sharon and Charles Johnson
Brenda and Kent Johnson
Mary Jane Lawson
Sharon and Ken Lease
Brad and Janet Marion
Dr. Scott McCalla and Ms. Leslie McCalla
William and Marilyn North
Dr. Carl Rubenstein
Elizabeth Ruam
John and Hattie Santore
Mary Sherman
Chris and Lisa Steves
Reta and Richard Strubhar
Bo Taylor
Mr. Phillip S. Tomlinson
PARTNER
$500 - $999
Dr. Gillian Air
Mrs. Arden Barrett
Ms. Susan Coatney
Joseph and Valerie Couch
Ms. Betty Crow
Patricia Edwards
Mr. and Mrs. Keith G. Golden
Dr. Nancy and Capt. George Hector
David and Marilyn Henderson
Becky McNeese
William McNeese
Virginia Meade
Mr. and Mrs. K. T. Meade, Jr.
Jim Murtaugh
Michael and Ginger Penn
Carol Sander
MEMBER
$250 - $499
John and Nancy Alsup
Judy Barnett
Brent D. Bell, D.O.
Ryan Bunyan
Ms. Carol Combs
Mark Doescher
Audie Dorrough
Mrs. Betty Foster
Steven Graham and Vicky Leloie Kelly
Herbert M. Graves
Marsha and John Greiner
David Lynch
Allison A. Matoi
Rick Spence
Greg Taber
Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Towell
GIFTS TO THE PHIL
SPECIAL GIFTS
Honor loved ones, celebrate occasions, recognize achievements, and support the Philharmonic’s mission.
In Memory of Jean Hartsuck
Mr. J. Edward Barth
Mrs. Jane B. Harlow
Mrs. Lil Ross
Dr. Lois Salmeron
Susie and Doug Stussi
In Memory of June Parry
Gayle and Richard Parry
In Memory of Renate Wiggin
Donald Wiggin
THANK YOU!
The OKCPHIL gratefully acknowledges the generosity of individuals who have chosen to return concert tickets as a donation. This recognition reflects contributions made for the 24-25 season and are listed through October 7, 2024.
