DIRECTOR’S NOTE
I see you’ve decided to JOIN US!
Welcome back to all our loyal returning Deadites! Welcome also to skeptical spouses, adventurous attendees, and all our first-timers! Evil Dead The Musical is back! Since closing its first sold-out run in the Gargaro Theater back in February of 2017, PMT has been constantly fielding the question: When is Evil Dead coming back? You keep asking so we keep answering, again, and again, and again!
The biggest challenge in remounting Evil Dead The Musical is to keep the material fresh for actors and audience while still delivering the same groovy experience. I’m fortunate to be surrounded with the kind of talent on stage and on the production team who loves this crazy, campy piece and strives to find every new laugh, squeezes out a little more blood, belts out more face-melting vocals, and continues to create the world of Ash and those pesky Candarian Demons!
So whether you prefer a safe seat far from the legendary “splatter zone,” or beg for more blood to be sloshed on your bold, intentionally post Labor Day, dazzlingly white outfits, you are guaranteed a perfect night that toes the line between camp, slasher gore, and traditional musical theater. Well…let’s be honest, it often crosses the line with reckless abandon, smirking through the fourth wall every chance it gets!
I couldn’t be happier to continue to bring Evil Dead The Musical to PMT.
And now... It’s time!
“We’ve died twice THRICE
before, now we’re back for more. You can’t kill the dead!”
Please enjoy!
Nick
Mitchell Director, Evil Dead The Musical
Pittsburgh Musical Theater
A NOTE FROM PMT’S EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Get ready for a thrilling ride as we welcome you back to the West End Canopy! I’m Colleen Doyno, Executive Director of Pittsburgh Musical Theater, and I couldn’t be more excited to launch our 2024 - 2025 “Heart & Soul” season—a season where every show is crafted to indulge your senses, touch your heart, and satisfy your soul like never before!
We’re kicking things off with a bang— and a lot of laughs—with the one-ofa-kind Evil Dead The Musical! Right here at PMT’s West End Canopy, this uproariously funny, thrilling, and delightfully gory show will keep you on the edge of your seat, screaming with laughter, and begging for more. Trust me, this is a musical experience you do not want to miss!
But that’s just the beginning! Our entire season is packed with heartpounding performances, powerful stories, and unforgettable music that will stay with you long after the curtain falls. We’ve poured everything into this season, and we can’t wait for you to experience it with us.
So, join us for a year of music, laughter, and community. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or a first-time guest, YOU are the heart and soul of what we do. We couldn’t do it without you, and we’re so grateful to have you on this journey with us.
Let’s make this a season to remember—together!
With immense gratitude and excitement,
Colleen Doyno Executive Director Pittsburgh Musical Theater
PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTION
FOR OVER 30 YEARS,
PMT has been an anchor in the musical theatre industry in the Pittsburgh region. Professional Productions feature local creative talent both on stage and in backstage roles. Truly unique and unmatched in the city, these productions also support PMT’s mission to provide mentorship and integrated opportunities with students of PMT Conservatory, creating a community of belonging and enhancing the vibrancy of our region.
Patrons can enjoy Professional Productions in multiple performance venues including the historic Broadway style Byham Theater in the Cultural District, and PMT’s own Off-Broadway Gargaro Theater in the West End.
GREASE, 2024 BYHAM THEATER PRO SHOW, PHOTO CREDIT: MATT POLK
Book and Lyrics by George Reinblatt
Additional Lyrics by Christopher Bond
Pittsburgh Musical theater presents SEPT 27TH - OCT 20TH, 2024 |
Music by Frank Cipolla Christopher Bond Melissa Morris George Reinblatt
Additional Music by Rob Daleman
Based on characters created by Sam Raimi By special arrangement with Renaissance Pictures, Ltd. & Studiocanal
Original Music Supervision by Frank Cipolla
Originally Produced in New York by Jenkay LLC, Jeffrey Latimer Entertainment, Just For Laughs Live, and Idle Dave Productions LLC
EVIL DEAD THE MUSICAL is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com ANY VIDEO AND/OR AUDIO RECORDING OF THIS PRODUCTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
MUSICAL SYNOPSIS
Act I
“Cabin in the Woods” Ash, Linda, Scott, Shelly, & Cheryl
“Housewares Employee” Ash & Linda
“It Won’t Let Us Leave” Cheryl
“Look Who’s Evil Now” Cheryl & Shelly
“What the F*@k Was That?” Ash & Scott
“Join Us” Cheryl, Moose, & House Spirits
“Good Old Reliable Jake”
“Housewares Employee (Reprise)”
Jake, Annie, & Ed
Ash & Linda
“I’m Not a Killer” Ash
Act II
“I’m Not a Killer (Reprise)” Ash
“Bit-Part Demon” Ed
“All the Men in My Life Keep
Getting Killed by Kandarian Demons”
Annie, Ash, & Jake
“Ode to an Accidental Stabbing” Jake & Annie
“Do the Necronomicon” Demons
“It’s Time” Ash & Company
“We Will Never Die” Demons
“Blew That ***** Away” Company
CAST
AsH
Brett Goodnack*
cHeryl Sabina May
Annie / sHelly Zanny Laird*
linDA Kamilah Lay
scoTT
Brecken Newton Farrell*
JAke Michael Zak
eD Ben Nadler
knowby
ensemble
Damon Oliver Jr.
Anya Epstein, Ben Nadler, Chris Russell, Collin Yates*
unDersTuDies
AsH - Collin Yates*
cHeryl, linDA - Anya Epstein
Annie / sHelly - Kamilah Lay
scoTT, JAke - Collin Yates*
eD, knowby - Chris Russell
* denotes member of Actors’ Equity Association
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER) * denotes member of Actors’ Equity Association
DAmon oliver Jr. cHris russell ben nADler
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
AnyA ePsTein (ensemble, u/s cHeryl, linDA, DAnce cAPTAin) is thrilled to be back with Pittsburgh Musical Theater for their 24/25 season. Anya was seen in PMT’s Grease (Patty Simcox) and Million Dollar Quartet (U/S Dyanne) last season. She is a Pittsburgh Native, who holds a Bachelors in Theater and Dance from Muhlenberg College. Some of her past favorite credits include Fiddler on the Roof (Chava), Something Rotten (Dance Ensemble) with Stage 62, and Perdita (Sarah) with the New Hazlett. Anya also works with Attack Theatre as a company dancer. Off stage you can find her teaching dance at PMT, CLO, and the local JCC. www.anyaepstein.com
brecken newTon FArrell* (scoTT) is excited to be performing with Pittsburgh Musical Theater once again in his third Evil Dead! He was most recently seen at the Byham Theater as Kenickie in Grease. Other credits include Bob Gaudio in Jersey Boys and Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar. In addition to theater, Brecken spends a lot of time in the music industry as a vocalist and guitarist, currently working on albums with several rock bands. He thanks God, his amazing parents, his brother Dane, his girlfriend Mackenzie, and all other friends and family who have supported him his entire life. Brecken dedicates his life’s work to Elmer and Joanne Lauster, his late grandparents who loved nothing more than seeing him perform. Isaiah 40:31
breTT GooDnAck* (AsH) is thrilled to be returning (by the side of a few of his dearest friends and cohorts) for his 5th appearance in Evil Dead at PMT. He is a lifetime Pittsburgher (where he received his J.D. from Duquesne Law),
and now resides in the South Hills. Credits include: Shakespeare, Something Rotten! (Stage 62), George Bailey, It’s A Wonderful Life (Bricolage Production Company); Black Stache, Peter and The Starcatcher (Stage 62); Victor Frankenstein, Frankenstein (Bricolage); Bob Wallace, White Christmas (Palisade Playhouse). Brett spends his days as Associate General Counsel for a state banker’s association, and his nights as a local comedic improviser, writer & performer, and Beatles enthusiast. Lastly, Brett has gotten some grief over only ever shouting out his dog Forest in the “special thanks” part of his bio in recent years, so this year: a very special thanks to Caitlin (the best girl in the world), my friends (Forest included, as always), and my family – especially my dad, who - even though he doesn’t have a chainsaw for a hand - has always been my hero.
ZAnny lAirD* (Annie / sHelly, FiGHT cAPTAin) a PMT Resident Artist, is thrilled to join the cast of Evil Dead after appearing as Rizzo in Grease! For over twenty years she has worked in TV, film, and theatre in Pittsburgh, Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York. Her resumé includes the world premiere productions of August: Osage County (Steppenwolf Theatre) and Trust (Lookingglass Theatre), the off-Broadway production of Kragtar: A Monster Musical (The West End Theatre), and the preBroadway workshop of Head Over Heels (Oregon Shakespeare Festival). Other local credits include The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk and The Cherry Orchard (Quantum Theatre), Phantom (PCLO), and Hamlet (Pittsburgh Shakespeare in the Parks). TV/Film: Elementary, The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water,
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Cut Shoot Kill and Red Dead Redemption 2. She holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Carnegie Mellon University.
kAmilAH lAy (linDA, u/s Annie / sHelly) Wisconsin-native, Kamilah, is delighted to call the Steel City her new home, and return to PMT after last appearing in Once (Reza). Most recently, she appeared in San Luis Obispo Rep’s production of 9 to 5 (Doralee). Additional credits include the world premiere of Moonshine and Mistletoe: An Appalachian Christmas Tale (Dovey), Once (Reza) at San Luis Obispo Rep, Natasha, Pierre and The Great Comet of 1812 (Ensemble, u/s Sonya) at Theatre Raleigh, and Guys and Dolls (Hot Box Girl) at The Fireside Theatre. Kamilah’s a proud alumna of Illinois Wesleyan University, where she earned her BFA in Music Theatre. She extends endless gratitude to Nick, Gemma, Francesca, Colleen, and the entire team of dedicated professionals at PMT. Many thanks and much love to her Midwestern family for their steadfast support in addition to her dearest, Collin. Kamilah aspires to connect, learn, and grow as new opportunities present themselves.
sAbinA mAy (cHeryl) is excited to be back in the burgh and performing with PMT! She is a recent graduate of Nazareth University with her BFA in Musical Theater. As a former conservatory student, Sabina is thrilled to be back in the West End with her forever friends. Some of her past credits include Spitfire Grill (Hannah Ferguson); Spring Awakening (Martha); Particle (Mom); Jekyll and Hyde (Lucy Harris). As always, Sabina is thankful for all the miles and smiles shared along the way! @_sabinamay_
ben nADler (eD, ensemble) is excited to make his PMT debut as one groovy bit-part demon. Praised for having a “star quality”, Ben has performed both onstage and onscreen. Theatre highlights include Louis Ironson in Angels in America, Pt. 1 (Elsewhere Theatre Company), Frederic in Pirates of Penzance (Pittsburgh Savoyards), Gnome/Nino U.S. in Amélie (Little Lake Theatre), & Snoopy in You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown (Emerson Kidding Around). Recent screen credits include him as a Silly Burglar for Ohio Lottery’s Lady Luck series, Robbie in See You In My Dreams (dir. Bayli Clack), and Olly in The Family Williams (dir. Steven Zhu), an official selection at multiple film festivals. Ben works as a producer in commercial film and television production, directs and teaches at South Park Theatre, and participates as a Standardized Patient with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, all while studying voice with the incomparable Thespina Christulides. Love to his husband Scott, his family and friends, and the cats! Rep: @ dochertyagency / IG: @benjamininadler / www.bennadlerfilm.com
DAmon oliver Jr. (knowby) is elated to be performing with Pittsburgh Musical Theater in their production of Evil Dead! They’ve had the pleasure of working with theater companies such as Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center, Viral Ventures, and Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera. They were also a choreographer for Allegheny Traditional Academy’s production of Wizard of OZ. Their most recent performance was John Lewis in Heroes: A Boy From Troy (Pittsburgh CLO). Other credits include: Hook and Peter Peter Pan Cocktail
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Experience (Viral Ventures), Malik Order in The House (Playwrights Theatre Fest), Actor educator (Saltworks Theatre Co.).
cHris russell (ensemble, u/s eD, knowby) is thrilled to be apart of the incredible show Evil Dead as a swing/ ensemble member. Chris has done other productions as a student at PMT Conservatory such as Leading player in PIPPIN, Sebastian in Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Christmas Present in A Lyrical Christmas Carol etc. After Chris graduated they took on more recent roles such as Angel in Stage 62’s RENT, Linus in YAGMCB, best man in GFP I do?, and Mr. Black in Andrew Lippa’s Wild Party. This experience has been incredible for the 19 year old, not only do they get to return back to their home theater as a performer in the iconic Evil Dead but Chris gets to experience this with a talented and phenomenal cast/ crew and team.
collin yATes* (ensemble, u/s AsH, scoTT, JAke) is thrilled to be back at PMT for Evil Dead! Collin first appeared on the PMT stage as Elvis in Million Dollar Quartet, and is now a proud resident of the Burgh. Other credits include Stacee Jaxx (Rock of Ages at ECU Summer Theater), Carl Perkins (MDQ Christmas at Timber Lake Playhouse), and Swing (Ring of Fire at NC Theater). He also tours with Sun Records Live as Elvis Presley/ Carl Perkins/Luther Perkins (Gershwin Entertainment Co.). You can find his original music on Spotify. Collin would like to thank his parents Holly and Bill, his siblings Liam and Riley, and his partner Kamilah for their constant love and support. IG @_Collin_Yates
micHAel ZAk (JAke) was most recently seen as Roger in PMT’s Grease. Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Michael is no stranger to the local stages, having performed with Split Stage Theater in Rent and Trafford Theatre Factory in A Taffeta Wedding. After studying Vocal Performance at CMU and Musical Theatre at Texas Tech University, Michael made his Off-Broadway debut as Harold/The Professor in the world premier of It Came From Beyond! (St. Luke’s Theatre). Other performances include: Ram, Heathers (Lubbock Moonlight Musicals); Sam/Mr. Burns, Mr. Burns A Post Electric Play (Texas Tech); Henry, Next to Normal (Texas Tech). In addition to performing, Michael has also music directed several Off-Broadway shows. Michael is part of the faculty at PMT Conservatory as a resident artist, and runs his own private voice and piano studio! All inquiries/new students: michaelzaksings@gmail.com
eve
PRODUCTION CREDITS
(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
bAnDi (liGHTinG DesiGner) an alum of University of Pittsburgh (BA ’11) and University of Arizona (MFA ’16), has been designing and assisting for over ten years now. Select designs include The Mountaintop, Detroit ’67, Pipeline (Hattiloo Theatre, Memphis); Steel Magnolias, Appointment with Death (Gallery Players, Brooklyn); Silent Sky, The 39 Steps, Three Viewings (South Park Theatre, Pittsburgh); The Hysteria of Dr. Faustus, The Maids, Measure for Measure (Seeing Place Theatre, NYC); Sunsum is Spirit (New Hazlett Theatre, Pittsburgh); Evil Dead The Musical, ¡Viva Los Bastarditos! (No Name Players, Pittsburgh).
colleen Doyno (execuTive DirecTor, ProDucer) has been with PMT since 1997. Ms. Doyno directed and choreographed countless shows for both the Professional and Conservatory theater companies. Several of these shows have been counted as the “Best of Pittsburgh” in the annual Pittsburgh Post-Gazette year in review; including the Conservatory Theater Company’s 2013 production of Miss Saigon, the first student show to be so honored. In 2013 Colleen’s achievements were recognized with the prestigious “Woman of Integrity” award and her commitment to mentoring young women into future leaders was honored when she was selected as a finalist for the 2013 “Athena” award. Ms. Doyno is a strong advocate for the development of the West End Community, which serves as PMT’s forever home. She has worked with Pittsburgh City Council, PA State and Allegheny County officials and the Mayor’s office to advance growth in the area. She has a deeply held belief in developing our children into healthy,
self-assured, well-rounded individuals through the arts. This belief is at the heart of her educational philosophy and has guided the success of the conservatory under her direction. Colleen considers herself fiercely local and is dedicated to concentrating on the positive, found in each individual and each day that she faces. Many thanks to the never ending dedication of the PMT staff, the constant support of the PMT Board of Directors and the love of my amazing family.
Amber kocHer (ProPs mAsTer) hails from Pittsburgh, with her husband, Kevin and son, Brody. She is a graduate of Clarion University and is the Props Master, Set Dresser, Jack-of-all-Trades Resident Artist and theater mom at PMT. Favorite credits with PMT include Evil Dead The Musical, Disney’s Newsies, Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Shrek, and more. Amber has been with the company since 2012, and is looking forward to many more seasons with PMT.
kevin kocHer (AssociATe TecHnicAl DirecTor) has set designed several shows at PMT including Sister Act, Jekyll and Hyde, We Will Rock You and Disney’s Newsies. He has also worked in various other technical positions at PMT and PMT Conservatory such as sound designs for Evil Dead The Musical (2019), Hunchback of Notre Dame (2019), and A Lyrical Christmas Carol (2019). Over the past several years Kevin has lead the Technical Theater & Design Program at PMT Conservatory, helping to educate students in technical theater design and application in full scale productions. Kevin attended Clarion University of PA and earned a B.S. in Education and studied theatrical design and direction.
PRODUCTION CREDITS
(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
GemmA miTcHell (ProDucTion sTAGe mAnAGer) is drop-dead thrilled to return to work on this legendary PMT production next to her favorite humanhusband-cat-dad-director Nick, this year as the coordinator of the groovy moves these deadites are slaying. She welcomes YOU to the PMT Experience in Pittsburgh’s West End! PMT credits include...all of them in the past 16 years!!!! To name some favorites: Million Dollar Quartet, Grease, Once, Jersey Boys, Jesus Christ Superstar (winner of Broadway World Pittsburgh’s Best Lighting Design of a Play or Musical and Best Musical 2022), The Sound of Music, Les Miserables, Annie, Beauty and the Beast, and Miss Saigon. Gemma has spent sixteen years in the PMT Family as the Director of Production Operations and a member of the Actor’s Equity Association for PMT’s Professional Company and PMT Conservatory Productions. Gemma has been seen serving on the production teams at South Park Theatre, Robert Morris Colonial Theatre, Freedom Area High School, and Plum Borough High School. She would like to endlessly thank PMT’s Executive Team, the members of the American Federation of Musicians, and this GROOVY cast and creative team. She’d like all that partake to go see her buddy Shannon at the bar, grab a Groovy Juice and hot dog to enjoy this twohour masterpiece. As is tradition, she dedicates this show to fellow-Evil Dead the Musical discoverer- Kate! Keep up with Gemma by following @missgemmamitch
nick miTcHell (DirecTor) is thrilled to be directing this GROOVY musical theater comedy for Pittsburgh Musical Theater again! He has been an active
director / performer in the Greater Pittsburgh Area since relocating from NYC ten years ago. In 2016, Nick was selected for a year-long Directing Observership with City Theatre where he assisted Tracy Brigden in directing the Pittsburgh premiere of Ironbound. Other directing highlights include: Bright Star (Front Porch Theatricals) Nunsense the Mega Musical (Pittsburgh Musical Theater), and the critically acclaimed productions of [title of show] (Company of Pittsburgh) and Assassins (Stage 62). Nick has worked for the past decade with the Pittsburgh CLO, initially with the Gallery of Heroes Tour, and more recently, as Assistant Director of CLO’s A Musical Christmas Carol. Favorite companies for whom he’s directed include Cup-AJo, 12 Peers, Heritage Players, South Park Theatre, and Americana Theatre in Plymouth, MA. Nick studied Musical Theater and Directing at Oklahoma City University. Thanks to the whole PMT creative and executive team, and this fantastic cast!
cHrisToPHer PATrick (mAkeuP & wiG DesiGner) has been designing shows for PMT since 2007, and it is such a joy to continue working with them. Christopher works in film television and theater in the Pittsburgh region and is a member of IATSE local 798. As usual with Evil Dead The Musical, we are glad that you could ‘Join Us!’ for a bloody good time.
JonATHAn T. sAGe (sounD DesiGner & TecHnicAl DirecTor) has been with PMT for more than ten years and is excited to be part of another production. A Michigan State University alumnus, additional credits include The Boarshead Professional Theater in Lansing,
PRODUCTION CREDITS
(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Michigan and The Ohio Light Opera in Wooster, Ohio. Jonathan would like to thank his family for all of their love and support.
Tucker ToPel (scenic DesiGner) (He/ Him) is a Pittsburgh based scenic designer and teaching artist, after growing up in the southern Wisconsin area. He is an alum of Point Park University. Recent local design credits include: A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Mercyhurst University), 9 to 5 (Stage 62), Abduction The Musical (MTAP), Meanwhile (CSA Program at The New Hazlett Theater), and HOARD (off the WALL). He also works with local schools including Moon Area HS, Seneca Valley HS, and CAPA Pittsburgh 6-12.
Dr. FrAncescA TorTorello, D.m.A. (music DirecTor) is the Resident Music Director of PMT. Recent productions include Joseph..., HAIR, Disney’s Newsies, and The Sound of Music. She teaches multiple classes for the pre-college program in the PMT Conservatory. Dr. Tortorello is also an accomplished classical musician and performs with a variety of instrumentalists and singers. She frequently collaborates with members of the Pittsburgh Symphony. A dedicated teacher and coach, she has maintained an active piano teaching studio for the past twenty years. Dr. Tortorello began piano lessons at the age of four in her hometown of Mount Kisco, NY. She holds a Bachelors degree in Piano Performance from the Cleveland Institute of Music where she studied with Antonio Pompa-Baldi. She received a Masters degree and Professional Studies certificate in Collaborative Piano from CIM, studying with Virginia Weckstrom. She also earned a Doctorate
in Collaborative Piano and Coaching at the University of Minnesota and studied with Timothy Lovelace. Francesca & her husband, Pittsburgh Symphony cellist Michael DeBruyn, have been performing as a professional duo since ‘04.
AnDoneTTA cHiArinA TrAGeser (AnDi) (ProDucTion AssisTAnT) is so excited to work with such an amazing cast and crew on PMT’s 5th production of Evil Dead The Musical! Previous Pittsburgh Musical Theater credits include: The Drowsy Chaperone Jr. (Stage Manager), Disney’s Newsies Jr. (Stage Manager), Disney’s High School Musical Jr. (Stage Manager), Grease (Production Assistant), and Million Dollar Quartet (Production Assistant). Andi spent 5 years as a student of the PMT Conservatory and has now returned to the PMT Family as a Resident Artist. Thank you to PMT’s Executive Team for allowing her to live her dreams every day and a special thank you to Nick, Nathaniel, Francesca, and Gemma. Andi also would like to dedicate all her work and dedication for this production to her father, Jack Phinney who passed in 2018 and her oldest sister, Cailyn Phinney who passed in 2022.
Amy ursiny (cosTume DesiGner) is an experienced Costume Designer with a demonstrated history of working in the higher education industry. During the college semesters she can be found at Carnegie Mellon University teaching freshman to 3rd year graduates alike. Several times a year she can be found running costume competitions across the east coast.
nATHAniel yosT (AssisTAnT DirecTor) is delighted to participate as Assistant Director in this production. With a
PRODUCTION CREDITS
(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
passion for theater and his on-stage experience, Yost is excited to bring a fresh perspective to this creative process. While this is his first time professionally assistant directing, Yost is no stranger to the stage. He has worked with various companies in the past including Pittsburgh CLO, St. Vincent Summer Theatre, The Summer Company, Prime Stage, Split Stage, The Heritage Players, Arcade Comedy Theater (their inaugural musical performance), Little Lake Theater, Front Porch Theatricals, and now PMT. Yost’s previous roles include Death of a Salesman (Happy Loman), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Oberon), Avenue Q (Brian), Macbeth (Macbeth), Beauty and the Beast (Ensemble/Beast u/s), the former Apple Hill Playhouse’s A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (Pseudolus), Bubble Boy: The Musical (Jimmy), The Music Man (Harold Hill), Amélie (Fluffy/Joseph), and Merrily We Roll Along (Charley). Yost is a graduate of Duquesne University with a BA in Theater Arts and Theology, and he is a proud member of NAR (National Association of Realtors).
AUTHOR CREDITS
(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
cHrisToPHer bonD is a writer & director from Toronto, Canada. Chris is still honored to have been a creative partner in this musical bloodbath since its inception in 2002. Besides his music, lyrical and development contributions, Chris has directed every large-scale production of Evil Dead, the Musical in North America for the last 20 years, including the show’s US debut OffBroadway, its return to Canada at the Diesel Playhouse and every national tour. Chris continued to work on irreverent cult horror shows including directing and creating new material for Trey Parker’s Cannibal the Musical (2015 & 2017) and co-writing and directing the official stage adaptation of Night of the Living Dead, where Chris collaborated with horror legend George A. Romero (2013). Other directing credits include, Disenchanted (National Tour), Little Black Dress, (National Tour), We Will Rock You, Forever Plaid, Ghost the Musical, assisting on the North American premiere of Bend it Like Beckham, The Musical. Chris is also a creative lead on the Disney Animation Immersive Experience and co-hosts the We Like Theme Parks Podcast on the Chip & Co. Podcast network.
FrAnk ciPollA grew up in a small Canadian town, where the overall lack of things to do left him plenty of time to learn how to play many musical instruments. Though he is very proud that his music has been featured off Broadway, at the Toronto International Film Festival and the Cannes Short Film Festival, he is most honoured to have performed at the music mecca CBGB’s in NYC. He currently lives in Toronto, Canada.
melissA morris is a composer, director, actor, singer, musician, musical director, playwright, and educator. She is a graduate of Music and Drama at Queen’s University in Kingston, Canada and attended Australian National University. Melissa’s career has taken her across North America and the Caribbean, where she has had the pleasure of working at Toronto City Opera, Nightwood Theatre, Chemainus Theatre, Drayton Festival, Theatre Orangeville, Port Hope Festival, Thousand Islands Playhouse, Stirling Theatre, Upper Canada Playhouse, Orillia Opera House, Gravenhurst Opera House, Theatre Collingwood, Theatre Kingston, Royal Conservatory of Music and on a cruise ship. She was Resident Musical Director/Composer at St Lawrence Shakespeare Festival for 10 seasons and has directed and musical directed at different companies in Canada. Her one-woman musical, Sweetheart, had a successful premiere in Kingston and online. She is a proud faculty member at Queen’s University, and runs her own private vocal studio in Toronto, Canada, where she teaches and coaches singers and actors of all ages.
GeorGe reinblATT writes musicals and roast jokes (and yes… he is the only person who does both). George has written for multiple Comedy Central Roasts including the Roasts of Justin Bieber, Bruce Willis, James Franco, and Rob Lowe. Other select television writing credits include: Roast Battle (Comedy Central), Roast Battle Canada (CTV), The Burn (Comedy Central), Jeff Ross Roasts Criminals (Comedy Central), NBC New Year’s Eve (NBC), Mr. D (CBC), Just For Laughs (CBC), The Much Music Video Awards (MUCH), and George also wrote
AUTHOR CREDITS
(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
a series of toothbrush commercials starring Kevin Hart (look them up on YouTube). George has written comedy for the likes of Steve Martin, Seth Rogen, Snoop Dogg, Martha Stewart, John Cleese, Kelly Ripa, Blake Griffin, Jewel, Steve-O, Joan Rivers, plus many more. And if that’s not enough, George also wrote the book, lyrics, and co-composed a cult musical where the audience gets drenched in blood (it’s Evil Dead The Musical, in case that wasn’t obvious).
Cheers!
SEPT 27 - OCT 20, 2024
WEST END CANOPY
DEC 18 - 22, 2024
GARGARO THEATER
APR 3 - 13, 2025
BYHAM THEATER
NOV 7 - 10, 2024
BYHAM THEATER
FEB 27 - MAR 2, 2025
GARGARO THEATER
MAY 1 - 25, 2025
GARGARO THEATER
Presented in partnership with the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust
NOVEMBER 7 - 10
BYHAM THEATER
Featuring Young Artists of PMT Conservatory in collaboration with the CAPA Orchestra
If you want to help ensure that PMT continues to bring exciting, innovative experiences to the West End and beyond, consider donating to the PMT Fund. Your contribution helps keep ticket prices low and allows us to invest in the amazing local talent you see on PMT’s stage.
With over 60 performances throughout our season, PMT reaches more than 35,000 patrons.
SEPT 27 - OCT 20, 2024
WEST END CANOPY
PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTION
DEC 18 - 22, 2024
GARGARO THEATER
YOUNG ARTIST PRODUCTION
APR 3 - 13, 2025
BYHAM THEATER
PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTION
NOV 7 - 10, 2024 BYHAM THEATER
YOUNG ARTIST PRODUCTION
FEB 27 - MAR 2, 2025
GARGARO THEATER
YOUNG ARTIST PRODUCTION
MAY 1 - 25, 2025
GARGARO THEATER
PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTION
FULL SEASON & INDIVIDUAL SHOW OPTIONS
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ACCOLADES OF GIVING
Pittsburgh Musical Theater extends our gratitude to our generous individual donors, as well as foundation, corporate and government partners.
Donors acknowledged here made a gift to Pittsburgh Musical Theater between July 1, 2023 and September 26, 2024. If your name is listed incorrectly or has been mistakenly omitted, please contact Allison Hannon, Director of Development, at (412) 539-0900 x236
PRODUCER’S CIRCLE
$10,000 and Above
Allegheny County Regional Asset District
Ken and Colleen Doyno
Grable Foundation
Heinz Endowments
Henry C. Frick Educational Fund of the Buhl Foundation
Hillman Foundation
The Jack Buncher Foundation
Jendoco Construction Corporation
PA Council on the Arts
PA Department of Community and Economic Development
The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust
Peter C. Dozzi Family Foundation
PNC Charitable Trusts
Vernon C. and Alvina B. Neal Fund
DIRECTOR’S CIRCLE
$5,000 - $9,999
Arsenal Cider House
Baird
City of Pittsburgh
Dollar Bank
O’Connor Family Foundation Fund of the Pittsburgh Foundation
Stephen L. Yoset
ACTOR’S CIRCLE
$2,500 - $4,999
Boyd & Blair
Graze Craze - North Pittsburgh
The Magic Lantern
Mike’s Beer Bar
North Shore Tavern
Jakub Sprankle Family
The Family of Craig Williamson
FOREVER FRIENDS CIRCLE
$1,000 - $2,499
Anonymous (1)
Jennifer and Michael Bails
Larry and Rikki Berger
Adam and Jenny Birch
Randy and Cathy Emanuelson
Michael and Elizabeth Forgy
The Fourcade Family
Malinda Hallett
HM Life Insurance Company
Ken and Jane Gargaro
Alicia and Michael Klein
The Kuhn Family
Kathleen Kuhn, in Memory of
Dwight Kuhn
Maria Lewis
Rochelle Lilien
James and Maria Pieffer
Family of Theresa Sage, in memory of Theresa Sage and Peter Sage
The Schmidtetter Family
Barry Tague
Vanguard Charitable
BRAVO
$500 - $999
Anonymous
Christopher Akin
The Baun Family
Cheryl Begandy
Robert and Kathleen Boudreau
Amanda Godley
Fat Heads Brewing
Kaitlyn Hendrickson
Ink Division Printing
Ken and Linda Krynski
Charles and Joan Moff
Triangle Payroll Services
Rachael Viehman
Melissa Wissel
Unisound
STANDING OVATION
$250 - $499
Anonymous (1)
Allegheny Intermediate Unit
Sandra Bails, in honor of Ilyssa Bails
Stephen Black
Friends of Rich Fitzgerald
Consol Cares Foundation
Allison Hannon and William Dodds
Greg and Julie Dodds
Marianne Downer
Ellen J. Doyno
The Duddie Family
Vince Gargaro
Jan Glick
Karen and Brian Hannon
The Mueller Family
Cara Shuckett
John and Elsie Viehman, in honor of Gabriella Viehman
The Yakubic Family, in memory of Joe Carlino
CHEERS
$100 - $249
Anonymous (7)
Michael J. Accetta
Maureen and Andrew Andoga
Jeffery Babich
Harry and Ronna Back
Anderson Bailey
John and Dotti Bechtol
Emily L. Brooks
ACCOLADES OF GIVING
Dr. and Mrs. L. Wayne Bossola, in honor of Anthony Gargaro and in memory of June Gargaro Henry
Gloria Caceres
Joseph and Shannon Christof
Rebecca Cibulka
Nat Cohen
Cohen Chiropractic Trigger Point Center
Bruce Crocker
Stephen Cuden
Kelly Cullen
Stephen Doerfler
Carmen Ellington
Michelle Farrell
Wynne Fedele, in honor of Lucas Fedele and Zanny Laird
Brad and Leanne Lisien
Lauri Fink
Tamara Giluk
Lucas Fedele and Zanny Laird
The Darke Family
The DeBruyn Tortorello Family
Lori Delale-O’Connor
Andrew Dodds
Timothy Dodds
Pamela Halstrick, In memory of June Gargaro Henry
Mary Grace Hannon
The Kocher Family
Cliff and Roseanne Levine
Steven Irwin, in honor of Colleen Doyno
Madeline Mamaux
John and Shauna Marlowe
Jennifer Mentz
Susan Monteverde
Penney Miller
Gemma and Nick Mitchell
The Parsons Family
Mary Rehak
Jennifer Reitzell
Dorothy and Nicholas Rescher
LuAnn Rosellini, In memory of June Gargaro Henry
Beth Ross
Joseph and Rhonda Popovich
Megan Shaffer
Michael and Nancy Sheleheda
Ron and Lisa Skalski, In memory of June Gargaro Henry
Roy Smith and Loretta Divecchia, In memory of June Gargaro
Henry
The Toole Family
Michael Troiani
Gina Vellucci
Raymond and Kathy Wayne
Brian and Kathleen White
Carol and Bryan Young
Kevin Ziperstein
PMT wishes to gratefully acknowledge supporters of our comprehensive campaign, Elevating the PMT Experience for All:
Allegheny County Economic Development
Allegheny Regional Asset District
Edith L. Trees Charitable Trust
Heinz Endowments
Hillman Foundation
McCune Foundation
State of Pennsylvania Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program
Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh
PMT also wishes to gratefully acknowledge the more than 150 individual donors who made gifts between $25-$99. Our full donor listing can be found on our website, at: pittsburghmusicals.com/honorroll
Thank you! We are so grateful for your support, which is critical to keeping PMT positioned as a cultural asset, community resource, and arts ambassador for the Pittsburgh community. Donations cover 35% of our operating costs annually, while each season Pittsburgh Musical Theater enriches the lives of over 35,000 art-lovers and families.
Contact Allison Hannon at 412-539-0900 x236 or visit pittsburghmusicals.com/donate if you would like to join this list of generous supporters.
PRODUCTION
Producer Colleen Doyno
Director Nick Mitchell
Choreographer G. Mitchell
Music Director Dr. Francesca Tortorello
AEA Production Stage Manager Gemma Williamson*
Technical Director Jonathan T. Sage
Scenic Designer Tucker Topel
Lighting Designer Eve Bandi
Props Master Amber Kocher
Costume Designer Amy Ursiny
Sound Designer Jonathan T. Sage
Assistant Director Nathaniel Yost
Makeup & Wig Designer Christopher Patrick
Fight Director J. Alex Noble
Fight Captain Zanny Laird
Dance Captain Anya Epstein
Associate Technical Director / Health & Safety Kevin Kocher
Scenic Charges Kelsey Jamison, Amber Shuman
Production Assistant Andi Trageser
Student Production Assistant Sarah Jakub
Production Photographer Matt Polk
sPeciAl Fx crew & ADDiTionAl mAkeuP ArTisTs:
Natalie Estok, Avery Ferrell, Micheal Fitsmaurice, Jayden Greening, Christopher Patrick, Hannah Reynolds, Troy Sellman, Jayden Solovey, Andi Trageser, students of the PMT Technical Theater & Design Program
sPeciAl THAnks:
Laura Barletta, Jeremy Eiben, Lucas Fedele, Tony Sirk
bAnD:
Keys / Conductor Dr. Francesca Tortorello
Guitar Alex Kenrick
Drums PJ Gatch
Pittsburgh Musical Theater (PMT) is a non-profit arts education organization committed to youth development. We cultivate a diverse creative community and future leaders with transferable life skills through a uniquely-designed convergence of training, mentorships, and professional performances. In a nurturing
environment that promotes wellness, safety, and freedom of expression, our integrated opportunities for young artists and local professionals create quality productions for all audiences, foster a community of belonging, and enhance the vibrancy of our region.
PmT boArD oF DirecTors
President Michael Kuhn
Vice President Kaitlyn Hendrickson
Secretary Carmen Ellington
Treasurer Rochelle Lilien
Board Members: Larry Berger, Adam Birch, Becky Cibulka, Kimberly Davis, Peyton Klein, Maria Lewis, Marcia Oglan, James Pieffer, Tyson Sears
LDI Leadership OnBoard: Kristen Bayley, Rufa Akhmedli
Ex Officio: State Representative Dan Deasy, Senator Wayne Fontana
ADminisTrATion
oPerATions
Executive Director Colleen Doyno
Director of Development Allison Hannon
Director of Finance Kate Toole
Box Office & Audience Services Manager, Accessibility Coordinator Amber Kocher
Marketing & Media Manager Lindsay Kalbfleisch
Graphic Designer & Marketing Associate Brianna Booher
Sponsorship Manager Caroline Nicolian
ProDucTion
Director of Production Operations Gemma Mitchell
Technical Director Jonathan T. Sage
Resident Music Director Dr. Francesca Tortorello
eDucATion
PMT Conservatory Director Quinn Patrick Shannon
PMT Conservatory Administrator Caroline Nicolian
PMT Conservatory / Associate Technical Director, Health & Safety Coordinator Kevin Kocher
Thank you for your continued support of Pittsburgh Musical Theater
Seeing shows in multiple performance venues - giving patrons both Broadway and Off Broadway environments to see live theater - including PMT’s own Gargaro Theater in the West End, where you’ll experience a broader range of extraordinary productions in a relaxed, unique setting - providing an Off Broadway experience unlike anything else in the city
Enjoying both professional and young artist productions - as a patron you’ll experience fantastic productions featuring professionals performers and young artists from PMT Conservatory, making you a part of the growth and evolution of the arts in our region
Supporting a company mission that is committed to youth development, integrated opportunities for young artists and local professionals, and building a diverse creative community
Once, Gargaro Theater
Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Byham Theater
A Lyrical Christmas Carol, Gargaro Theater