Applause -- The Hip Hop Nutcracker -- November 2021

APPLAUSE VOLUME XXXII NUMBER 1 NOV 2021 – JAN 2022

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APPLAUSE

SIGHTLINE

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BY JANICE SINDEN

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Janice Sinden, President & CEO

A Christmas Carol......................pg 8 The Hip Hop Nutcracker ......pg 20 Disney’s The Lion King ......... pg 26 4

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EDITOR: Suzanne Yoe DESIGN DIRECTOR: Kyle Malone DESIGNER THIS ISSUE: Brenda Elliott CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS: Paul Koob, Lucas Kreitler CONTRIBUTING WRITER: Brittany Gutierrez

Welcome back! We are so glad you are here.

While we could have never anticipated that a worldwide pandemic would necessitate a 20-month intermission from live, indoor programming, we were fortunate to find some silver linings.

First and most importantly, you are our most loyal patrons. You stood by our side, kept your tickets, gave generously to keep our doors open and returned despite the temporary measures we have implemented to protect the health and well-being of our actors, artists and audiences. We would not have withstood the shutdown without your overwhelming support. On behalf of our Board of Trustees, Management Team and entire staff, bravo! You are the ones who deserve a standing ovation.

Second, for those of you who have returned to the Bonfils Theatre Complex for A Christmas Carol, you are the first audiences to see our transformation. We were able to complete our $54 million project to renovate The Marvin & Judi Wolf (formerly Stage) Theatre, The Dorota & Kevin Kilstrom (formerly Space) Theatre, and The Singleton (formerly Ricketson) Theatre as well as the creation of a new central lobby, extensive accessibility improvements and technology upgrades that literally advance our capabilities by decades. Additionally, Robert & Judi Newman made a signature gift to rename our Education theatre in honor of the DCPA’s late president; the Weeks Conservatory Theatre will host the return of our Theatre for Young Audiences programming in 2022. Thank you to our Denver voters for supporting the Elevate Denver Bond Fund, our Trustees and the many donors to our capital campaign.

Finally, the DCPA is furthering its efforts to advance equity, diversity and inclusion across the organization. You will continue to see these efforts reflected in the work on our stages, in our classrooms, and in our practices. As we seek to create a culture of belonging, we have adopted a land acknowledgement to offer recognition and respect to the Indigenous communities in Colorado with whom we are creating long-lasting relationships. On page 15, we have printed our official land acknowledgement and included a link to more information about this practice.

Now, we invite you to relax, sit back or lean in, laugh or cry, soak it in or let your emotions go, and be immersed in the power, the joy and the magic of live theatre.

Welcome home.

IN THIS ISSUE

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VO LU M E X X X I I • N U M B E R 1 • N OV 2 0 2 1 - JA N 2 0 2 2

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APPLAUSE • NOV 2021 – JAN 2022 • 303.893.4100 • DENVERCENTER.ORG

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HONORARY TRUSTEES Margot Gilbert Frank Jeannie Fuller Daniel L. Ritchie Cleo Parker Robinson HELEN G. BONFILS FOUNDATION BOARD OF TRUSTEES William Dean Singleton, President Martin Semple, Vice President Dr. Reginald Washington, Secretary/Treasurer Ruth Krebs

EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT Janice Sinden, President & CEO Jamie Clements, Vice President, Development Chris Coleman, Artistic Director, Theatre Company John Ekeberg, Executive Director, Broadway & Cabaret Lydia Garcia, Executive Director, Equity & Organization Culture Gretchen Hollrah, Chief Operating Officer Lisa Mallory, Vice President, Marketing & Sales Vera Morales, Vice President, Human Resources Lisa Roebuck, Vice President, Information Technology Charles Varin, Managing Director, Theatre Company Allison Watrous, Executive Director, Education & Community Engagement Jane Williams, Vice President, Finance

Former DCPA President, COO & Trustee Lester Ward passed away on October 20. He will be greatly missed.

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RETURNING TO THE

SPOTLIGHT We congratulate the Denver Center for the Performing Arts for their resilience and salute the actors, directors, creative teams, leadership, and staff as they return to the spotlight.

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Sam Gregory in A Christmas Carol.

Photo by Adams VisCom.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

HOMECOMING

READ THE FULL ARTICLE

ASL interpreted and Audio-Described performance: Dec 12 at 2pm

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APPLAUSE • NOV 2021 – JAN 2022 • 303.893.4100 • DENVERCENTER.ORG

is the official motto for the bigger and campier Camp Christmas experience at the Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park. After the debut of the indoor immersive experience in 2019 and the virtual experience in 2020, Camp Christmas returns with even more lights, glitter and merry badges.

Here are five things to get you ready for the all-new experience.

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From 10,000 square feet to SIX ACRES! The outdoor-indoor holiday experience spans throughout the park’s historic buildings and walking paths with family-friendly activities, two bars and extravagant decor.

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Camp Christmas wouldn’t be complete without Santa. Visit his Glampsite and get that perfect photo for the holiday season.

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In 2019, Creator Lonnie Hanzon created a sugar candy tree over

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the 7-week run. This year, don’t miss Lonnie as he creates a

150-pound gingerbread display.

Photo left: Leslie O’Carroll and Michael Fitzpatrick. Photo by Adams VisCom..

A CHRISTMAS CAROL NOV 19 – DEC 26, 2021 WOLF THEATRE

CAMP CHRISTMAS

“Forget your troubles, c’mon, get campy”

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This year, reuniting for A Christmas Carol is more than resurrecting a tradition…it’s a homecoming.

2018 was the last time A Christmas Carol performed in the Bonfils Complex before theatres were closed for renovation. Before live theatre was closed altogether.

Now the cast will reunite to welcome audiences. And they are excited.

“I feel so fortunate and honored to be a part of the Denver Center’s annual production of A Christmas Carol,” said Sam Gregory (Scrooge). “Nothing compares to the experience of sharing such a wonderful story with families at Christmas.”

“There are no words to express how excited I am,” said Leslie O’Carroll (Mrs. Fezziwig). “I have missed that rush of energy you get from engaging with a live audience.”

“Being a part of this production has become a holiday tradition for me,” said Erick Pinnick (Christmas Present). “In theatre, it’s rare that you get to reunite with the same group of actors year after year to create something this special.”

“A Christmas Carol will be my first show back following the shutdowns. And that was purposeful,” said Shannon Steele (Ensemble). “Somehow, I knew that I wanted THIS story to bring this piece of my heart and my world back to life.”

A Christmas Carol is not only the return of a holiday favorite. It also signifies the resumption of live, indoor performances for the DCPA Theatre Company.

On March 13, 2020, all venues were closed and by May, the entire theatre season was cancelled.

However, all was not lost; the Bonfils renovation continued.

“I am SO excited about the renovations!” exclaimed Hanley Smith (Belle). “I love that the intimate-yet-spacious original footprint has been maintained….

And the technical updates will be a treat for designers and technicians to let their creative juices really get going!”

But a three-year absence for this classic as well as the 20-month hiatus of Theatre Company programming elicits a varied response.

“I return to work with mixed emotions,” said Gregory. “I grieve for the lost time, the lost productions, and the lost artistic experiences. And I am elated to embrace the creative process of theatre production once again!”

“Theatre gives so much life,” Steele said. “That’s what I missed most…the vehicle that theatre provides, for experiencing LIFE and HUMANITY and witnessing COMPASSION and all the LOVE that exists in all its glorious forms.”

O’Carroll added, “Doing A Christmas Carol is like putting on your favorite sweater, lighting a fire and inviting 1000’s of your neighbors into your home for Wassail — ‘Plenty for one and all!’”

“I’m excited to share the story with audiences looking to reconnect and celebrate togetherness,” said Chloe McLeod (Understudy). “To be able to perform again for audiences feels like coming home.”

COMING UP FOR OFF-CENTER:

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Want the audio experience?

Tune into Camp Director Lonnie’s audio tour as he guides campers through Camp Christmas with history, facts and more!

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Make a wish for your community this season at the interactive Winter Wish Tree. Share your wishes at Camp Christmas on Nov. 18, 2021 through Jan. 2, 2022.

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Make your holidays — and the upcoming year — brighter than ever with a DCPA Broadway subscription! Become a subscriber and get insider access to the best seats, the best dates and the best prices the DCPA has to offer.

2022 BROADWAY SEASON

SUBSCRIBER PERKS INCLUDE • First access to tickets for hit Broadway tours and Added Attractions • Free, flexible exchanges and a dedicated customer service team • DCPA Education and restaurant/parking discounts Some restrictions apply. Subject to availability.

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE Surprise your friends or family with a gift certificate and let them curate their own “perfect season.”

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Live theatre is finally back! This year, we invite you to experience MORE of what you love. More music. More laughs. More world-class plays and musicals, crafted right here in Denver.

The Company of INDECENT. INDECENT Photo by Adams VisCom

As a DCPA Theatre Company season subscriber, you’ll experience more unforgettable date nights. More family outings. More holiday magic. Welcome home.

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New Year’s Eve 1979 was not just the birth of a new year.

It was the beginning of professional theatre in Denver.

Long-time philanthropist, occasional actress and former Denver Post owner, Helen G. Bonfils, dreamed of a regional theatre in her hometown. But it was her lawyer, co-producer and executor, Donald R. Seawell, who created not only the company, but also its home.

Based on advice from leading theatre design experts, Seawell assembled four “roles” to conceive the Helen Bonfils Theatre Complex in the 1970s: The Producer (Seawell), The Architect (Pritzker Prize winner Kevin Roche), The Designer (Jo Melziener, Broadway set designer) and The Artistic Director (Gordon Davidson of LA’s Mark Taper Forum).

According to an oral history with Seawell, “After we had the plans, we mocked up every theatre on a sound stage in LA, actually MGM Studios where Gone With the Wind was shot. Gordon had his whole company there — actors, directors, sound men, light men, even the janitors — to make sure we didn’t overlook a broom closet.”

Ground broke in late 1974, and the Denver Center Theatre Company made its debut with a three-day opening gala that featured The Caucasian Chalk Circle, Moby Dick: Rehearsed and The Learned Ladies.

Called a “Triumph of Architecture in Denver” by The New York Times, the Bonfils has now welcomed nearly 6 million guests to more than 400 productions.

But even the “Mona Lisa” needs to be maintained.

Starting in 2015, the DCPA embarked on the most ambitious undertaking in its master plan — renovation of three theatres, the lobby and backstage areas to improve fire/life safety issues, enhance accessibility and advance the technical capabilities by decades.

Much like at its inception, the right team was assembled: Semple Brown Design, Turner Construction and Cumming Group joined COO Gretchen Hollrah and Director of

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Construction Projects Jeff Gifford. They developed a $54 million plan to take the Bonfils into the next century.

“In some ways, we’ve restored spaces to their original purpose,” said Chris Wineman, Principal, Semple Brown.

“In others, we’ve completely re-thought the space based on the 40 years of experience DCPA has had in the building. But the bottom line has been elevating the experience for the patrons and the artists.”

“We have modernized the acoustics to enhance the performance for both actor and audience,” said Gifford. “We have made significant improvements to the infrastructure of lighting, sound, scenery and AV, which will allow us to focus on the art of making plays instead of retro-fitting a space to accommodate theatrical elements that didn’t exist 43 years ago.”

With $29MM from the voter-approved Better Denver and Elevate Denver bond funds, DCPA Chair-elect Hassan Salem was tapped to lead the $17MM “A Grander Opening” capital campaign. When Applause went to press, more than 165 individuals, businesses and foundations have contributed including 100% participation by the Board of Trustees.

Board contributions include four signature gifts from Marvin and Trustee Judi Wolf, Trustee Robert and Judi Newman, Secretary/Treasurer William Dean Singleton, and Dorota and Trustee Kevin Kilstrom.

“Because of the tremendous display of support from our Trustees and the community,” said DCPA President & CEO Janice Sinden, “the DCPA Theatre Company is not only able to reopen after a 20-month hiatus due to the pandemic, but our spaces can now fully accommodate artists’ imaginations, inspire students’ creativity and welcome guests to stories that reflect their lives.

“We are so grateful to these donors and to our partners who transformed ideas on a page into a theatrical blank canvas with limitless possibilities.”

APPLAUSE • NOV 2021 – JAN 2022 • 303.893.4100 • DENVERCENTER.ORG

HONORING OUR ELDERS The first theatre to be renovated was the Dorota & Kevin Kilstrom Theatre (200 seats), which began in March 2016 and was completed September 2017. After being entirely gutted, it was rebuilt in its original pentagonal configuration with two seating levels and increased main-floor seating.

Renovation of the former Stage Theatre, Ricketson Theatre, Bonfils lobby and backstage areas was announced in June 2018. Despite the mandatory closure of public venues due to COVID-19, construction continued, ensuring that the theatres were ready when performance could resume.

The Wolf Theatre (689 seats) was dismantled to the ground. Its former wooden undergirding was replaced with fire-retardant steel beams, platforms and a sprinkler system. The stage and seating area were rebuilt with new seats, increased wheelchair seating, and an acoustic paneled back wall. Despite being the largest theatre in the Bonfils Complex, the Wolf retains its intimate seating area with just 13 rows.

Alterations to the Singleton Theatre (199 seats) include increased backstage space for props and set pieces and an improved trap space beneath the stage. The adjacent lobby features a repositioned bar and new restroom location to improve patron flow.

One of the most significant transformations is the central lobby.

Instead of entering the Singleton Theatre from a separate entrance, all patrons will enter a unified lobby. “We have added five elevators to the building,” said Gifford. “Three are public facing and two allow performers and technicians to get to stage level in the Wolf and Singleton theatres.”

When miners first settled in Colorado, Denver boasted 13 legitimate theatres before it had a hospital or school, illustrating a long and deep commitment to the arts. Now, in 2021, the “crown jewel” of downtown Denver sparkles anew, thanks again to our community — the voters, Trustees, individuals, businesses, foundations and employees who voluntarily gave of themselves to ensure the future of the DCPA.

Help the DCPA close the gap! Naming opportunities and seats are available. Visit denvercenter.org/granderopening.

We invite our audiences to join the DCPA as we honor our Elders for the care of the land on which we perform with an official land acknowledgement. These words are shared at company meetings, first rehearsals, public forums and in the pages of Applause to recognize and respect Indigenous Peoples, their traditional territories and the care they have shown to all who reside here.

The Denver Center for the Performing Arts honors and acknowledges that it resides on the traditional and unceded territories of the Ute, Cheyenne, and Arapaho Peoples. We also recognize the 48 contemporary Indigenous Tribes and Nations who have historically called Colorado home.

We pay our respects to Elders past, present, and future, and to all those who have stewarded the land and water for generations.

May this acknowledgment express the DCPA’s commitment to grow and deepen its relationships with the vibrant Indigenous communities who continue to thrive and uphold their sacred relation to this land.

Learn more about land acknowledgements.

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NEW JERSEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER and Executive Producer EVA PRICE present

Adapted by

MIKE FITELSON

Based on The Nutcracker by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky with Special Guest MC KURTIS BLOW Produced by NEW JERSEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER JOHN SCHREIBER, President & CEO DAVID RODRIGUEZ, Executive Producer SIMMA LEVINE, Producer Lighting Designer BRANDON STIRLING BAKER Directing Fellow ASHLEIGH KING

Video Designer MOE SHAHROOZ

Associate Director & Choreographer RANDI FREITAS

Company Manager REBECCA EASTON Social Media Marketing BIZ CHICA MEDIA

Original Beats & Remixes DJ BOO

Production Stage Manager SARAH GOSHMAN Tour Marketing ALLIED GLOBAL MARKETING

Stylist LAURIEN DE MUNCK Press TELLEM GRODY PR

Directed & Choreographed by

JENNIFER WEBER

Featuring freestyles by the Company powered by

Originally produced by the United Palace of Cultural Arts Mike Fitelson, Executive Director

THE HIP HOP NUTCRACKER

SEASON SPONSORS

THE HIP HOP NUTCRACKER

CAST Maria-Clara.................................................................................................................. ANN-SYLVIA CLARK The Nutcracker...........................................................................................................GABRIEL EMPHASIS Mom..................................................................................................................................................... LILY FRIAS Dad................................................................................................................................ BRYAN LONGCHAMP Drosselmeyer..............................................................................................LISA “L-BOOGIE” BAUFORD Mouse King/Ensemble..............................................................................RANDI “RASCAL” FREITAS Toy/Ensemble....................................................................................... ANTHONY “OMEN” CABRERA Tea/Ensemble......................................................................................................JACKIE “JK-47” AGUDO Toy/Ensemble.....................................................................................................................ZUCE MORALES Russian/Ensemble.................................................................................. SETH “REAKTION” HILLARD Chocolate/Ensemble.......................................................................................JON “GIFTED” JIMENEZ Flute/Ensemble............................................................................................DUSTIN “D-PAYNE” PAYNE Swing.........................................................................................................................................ETHAN EVARO Violinist.............................................................................................................................. JARVIS L BENSON Performance DJ....................................................................................................................................DJ BOO

Place New Year’s Eve – Uptown, USA The Hip Hop Nutcracker will be performed with one 20-minute intermission.

PRODUCTION STAFF CREDITS Dance Captain......................................................................................................................RANDI FREITAS Associate Lighting Designer.........................................................................COBY CHASMAN-BECK Moving Light Programmer.....................................................................................DALTON HAMILTON Production Manager....................................................................................................... SHANE CASSIDY Assistant Company Manager/COVID Safety Manager............................ BRYNN GRAMBOW Wardrobe Supervisor...................................................................................................... KATY FREEMAN Wardrobe Consultant....................................................................................................CAMBRIA CHICHI Original Company Associate Director/Choreographer........................................... TAEKO KOJI Original Costume Design...........................................................................................WHITNEY ADAMS Additional Casting.......................................................................MEISHA LEE and JANET LANGER Physical Therapist..........................................................................................NATALIE FARAH, PT, DPT Director of People & Inclusion..................................................................................COLETTE LUCKIE Creative & Production Services..................................................... ALLIED GLOBAL MARKETING General Management

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EVA PRICE CARL FLANIGAN JOSH ALTMAN CASEY McDERMOTT ERIC EMAUNI AVRAM FREEDBERG MARY BETH DALE Exclusive Tour Direction BROADWAY AND BEYOND THEATRICALS Tracey McFarland Barbara Cooley Robin Mishik-Jett

Social Media Marketing BIZ CHICA MEDIA Tracy Chapman-Nolan Krystle Carmona

Mauricio Urquilla Kelly Chapman

Khomari Flash Gilesa Thomas

Tour Marketing ALLIED GLOBAL MARKETING Andrew Damer Jennifer Gallagher Scott Praefke Hayden Anderson Jessica Cary Amenkha Sembenu Physical Therapy by NEURO TOUR Physical Therapy, Inc. The Director is a member of the STAGE DIRECTORS AND CHOREOGRAPHERS SOCIETY, a national theatrical labor union.

Act I During the annual uptown holiday street party, Maria-Clara is upset by her parents’ constant bickering. The mysterious Drosselmeyer appears, bringing magical toys to the party.

Drosselmeyer then introduces Maria-Clara to a street vendor selling roasted nuts, who catches her eye because he is different from the other boys on the block. After the party breaks up, Maria-Clara heads home, but on her way, she runs into the menacing Mouse Crew.

The Nutcracker, aided by a magic pair of sneakers, defeats the Mouse King and the couple enjoys the romance of winter’s first snowfall.

Act II Drosselmeyer meets Maria-Clara and the Nutcracker and takes them back in time to the Land of Sweets nightclub on New Year’s Eve, 1984. Invisible, the couple watches the party-goers show off the dance styles of the day. Suddenly Maria-Clara realizes she is witnessing the night her parents first met and is overcome by how they were once deeply in love. Back in the present, and with a little more magic, Maria-Clara and The Nutcracker help Mom and Dad reconcile. The community joins them in the celebration.

WHO’S WHO Kurtis Blow (Special Guest MC) is one of the founders and creators of recorded rap. A timeless artist and hip hop legend, Kurtis blazed the trail for early hip hop artists and continues to carry the torch for hip hop music in new arenas. Kurtis is credited with many accolades and was the first rapper to ever be signed to a major label, release a certified gold rap album (The Breaks), tour the United States and Europe, record a national commercial (Sprite), use the drum machine, sample, and sample loop, release a rap music video, and become a millionaire.

In 1979, at the age of 20, Kurtis Blow became the first rapper to be signed by a major label. He released Christmas Rappin’, which sold more than 400,000 copies and became an annual classic. Its gold follow-up, The Breaks, helped ignite an international “rap attack,” solidifying the new art form. He released 10 albums over 11 years and his early projects made him an instant success at home and across Europe. Pioneering records like Party Time introduced the fusion of rap and go-go. Hit songs like “8 Million Stories,” “AJ,” and “Basketball” were simply ahead of their time, and still get spins

by DJs today. Fellow rap legend Nas debuted at #1 on the Billboard Charts with a cover of Kurtis’ “If I Ruled the

World” in 1997. Beyond his own hits, Kurtis contributed to the success of The Fat Boys and Run DMC. In fact, Run began his career billed as “The Son of Kurtis Blow.” Among countless others, Wyclef Jean, Lovebug Starski, Sweet Gee, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Full Force, and Russell Simmons all have been produced by or have worked with Kurtis in the past. Kurtis’ multidisciplinary skillset has taken him across the country and overseas to score, produce, and act in various films.

Most notably, he played a large role in the production of the hit film Krush Groove. The New York Daily News called his cinematic works a “noteworthy, dynamic presence.” Kurtis Blow’s reach transcends that of your typical entertainer. He has completed multiple world tours since the turn of the new millennium, and continues to work on other creative endeavors. His innate ability to reach people is evident in his work as an activist, radio personality, and most recently, an ordained minister and leader of the Hip Hop Church.

Artists still pay their respects to Kurtis’ trailblazing in a number of ways.

His influence has been mentioned in seemingly every important HipHop film in the past decade, from Get Rich or Die Tryin’ to Notorious and Straight Outta Compton. He has

a prominent presence on Television as well, with his music appearing on shows such as “Dancing With The Stars” and “SportsCenter.” He also was an associate producer on the Netflix hit series “The Get Down.” Outside of music, Kurtis has long been a very spiritual man. He went back to school to become an ordained minister, and has been preaching at churches around the world. His work with The Hip-Hop Church has helped bridge the gap between the art form and the church.

Education has long been important to Kurtis. He has been a champion of higher education, and advocates for bringing Hip-Hop culture into the curriculums of our institutions. The rap pioneer has given talks at schools such as Berklee College of Music in Boston and CalArts in California and plans to continue to carry the culture into the classroom. For more information, visit www.Kblow.com ANN-SYLVIA CLARK (Maria-Clara) was born and raised in Norway. She started out as a gymnast at an early age, but later on focused her interest more toward dance. She studied dance at Flow Dance Academy (DK).

She performed with Snoop Dogg and Pharrell Williams at the 2006 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs)

THE HIP HOP NUTCRACKER

PLOT

THE HIP HOP NUTCRACKER

in Denmark. Since moving to New York, Ann-Sylvia has toured the U.S. and the United Kingdom. She has also performed on television shows including, “Good Day New York” on Fox 5, CBS, PBS, ESPN, Telemundo and “Fake Off” on TruTV. She has also performed in music videos for artists such as Alicia Keys, Styles P, JBalvin and Ben L’Oncle Soul. TV viewers can find her in commercials for the US Open, Samsung, Verizon, Digicel and Reebok.

GABRIEL EMPHASIS (The Nutcracker) Born in the Dominican Republic, Gabriel’s passion for the arts started at an early age. In 2005, he discovered Breaking, the street dance that inspired him to pursue a career in dance.

Fascinated by the acrobatics and stylish movement, his drive to develop this passion led him to NYC, a mecca to many artists. There, his passion caught the eye of many companies, agents, and producers, who got him to collaborate with many artists from different backgrounds. Having never taken a dance class before, these opportunities inspired him to explore new ways of movement, which along with his dedication lifted his career to what it is now. Today, his career has allowed him to bring his love for the arts to more than 20 countries around the world, and has given him countless opportunities to work for productions, brands, and artists he could have only dreamed of as a kid.

LILY FRIAS (Mom) Born and raised in Mexico, Liliana (Lily) Frias has been dancing for 13 years and is currently working as a professional dancer in Los Angeles.

Beginning her career as a technical dancer, Lily found her true calling when she mastered the hip hop styles and the art of freestyle, specifically the styles of whaacking and popping.

She has been featured in a variety of productions, including “So You Think You Can Dance” (Season 12), “America’s Best Dance Crew” (Season 7), Cirque du Soleil, dance battles, national commercials, and Red Bull BC One 2018. She is also known for teaching and performing in the U.S., Europe, Latin America, and Japan, individually and as a part of her crew known as Femme Fatale.

BRYAN LONGCHAMP (Dad), Brooklyn native, has danced professionally for more than a decade in styles ranging from hip hop to Krump and popping.

Bryan is a core member of the dance company iLuminate, known as Team iLuminate on popular television show “America’s Got Talent.” With the company, he has traveled and performed in countries such as Mexico, Hong Kong, Malaysia, the Bahamas, and Saudi Arabia to name a few. He has also performed on some of the biggest Broadway stages right here at home.

You may have seen Bryan in music videos such as “Can You Hear Me” by Omarion or “Tout et Goure” by Luz and the Yakuza or even in his performances on “The Tonight Show” with Jimmy Fallon. As a dance educator, Bryan has been teaching for over seven years, and trains both children and adults to fall in love with dance and be the best that they can be!

LISA “L-BOOGIE” BAUFORD (Drosselmeyer) is an LA-based dancer, choreographer, writer, actor, and educator who hails from St. Petersburg, Florida. Lisa is currently in production on a Las Vegas residency at The Stratosphere with iLuminate. Lisa recently completed her second year with the national tour of The Hip Hop Nutcracker as Drosselmeyer, which also features hip-hop legend Kurtis Blow. In 2012, Bauford signed with Flipz Entertainment and appeared OffBroadway for iLuminate, a company that fuses dance and technology, in the Artist of Light series at Duke Theatre, and later at New World Stages. Performing as Starlight Jones, the character Lisa created for Artists of Light, Bauford appeared in a CBS March madness commercial, which she choreographed. Lisa has also appeared in Google’s Made with Code commercial, on the “Wendy Williams Show,” “Good Morning America” and on “America’s Got Talent.” She is a member of iLuminate’s World Tour corporate cast as an educator, performer, and dance captain, roles which have taken her to China, Egypt, France, Germany, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Samoa, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, and Uzbekistan.

RANDI “RASCAL” FREITAS (Associate Director-Choreographer/Dance Captain/ Mouse King/Ensemble) is a dancer/choreographer living in Los Angeles, California. Randi has toured

Japan performing in a theatre show called The Battle. She just came off set filming for the upcoming Christmas musical Spirited, starring Will Ferrell and Ryan Reynolds. She has performed on shows such as “Jimmy Kimmel Live!,” “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” The AMAs, The Kids’ Choice Awards and The Grammy Awards, with companies such as Nike, Toyota, and AT&T, and artists such as Justin Timberlake, SZA, Travis Scott and Kaytranada. Randi is still active in the underground scene as well. She was a finalist at the US National Finals for Red Bull BC One 2021. She has taught in multiple cities around the US, as well as in countries such as France, Belgium, Thailand, Canada and Mexico. Randi teaches Hip Hop at University of Southern California and CalArts. Most recently, she has begun her own training company, OMEGA Flow Floorwork, which trains dancers around the world. While her training program is not exclusive to womxn, it stands as a space of integrity for them to learn and grow.

ANTHONY “OMEN” CABRERA (Toy/ Ensemble) was born on November 7, 1983. A vivacious child, he always loved to dance — it didn’t matter if it was a family gathering or a large party. While growing up in Boston and the Dominican Republic, he discovered hip hop and breakdancing (Bboying) through television, but it wasn’t until his high school years that he started training in Bboying. Soon after, he realized his natural ability for dancing and improved rapidly. With the body awareness to control the acrobatic elements of Bboying and the creativity to develop an original style, Omen was quickly recognized by peers and established Bboys of the dance community. Currently, Omen is part of the world-renowned Bboy crew based out of New York City, Supreme Beings. In addition to winning numerous solo and group competitions at both the national and international level, Anthony has contributed to the dance community by sitting on judging panels and conducting workshops. As a performer, he is part of both G-Force Entertainment and Raw Miami Entertainment. When he is not on board a Carnival cruise ship as a performer, Anthony keeps busy performing for music artists, corporate parties, clubs and street shows. His other professional interests include modeling and acting.

ETHAN EVARO (Swing). A San Diego, California native, moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in the entertainment industry while getting an education. He graduated with a BFA in Commercial Dance from Hussian College In Studio, Los Angeles in 2021. Though specializing in break dancing, Ethan has trained extensively in a variety of dance styles and prides himself on his versatility. He recently completed a Europe and United Kingdom tour for the renowned drag queen, Vanessa Vanjie Mateo, and has also performed in Janet Jackson’s “Unbreakable” tour.

Along with these accomplishments, Ethan has also performed and worked at a variety of charity events including, A Salute to Teachers and The Natural High Anniversary. Ethan strives to bring his break dancing roots and a calm, hardworking attitude into all his professional endeavors.

ZUCE MORALES (Toy/Ensemble).

Born and raised in Puebla, Mexico, where she began her formal dance training at the age of 15 and moved to Los Angeles in 2016 when she was 19 years old in order to pursue her dreams as a professional dancer. She is trained in Hip Hop, Whacking, Popping, House, and other dance forms but her specialty is Locking. While she trained at the legendary Debbie Reynolds Dance Studios, Movement Lifestyle and Millennium, she attended Glendale College where she got two certifications, one in Dance Teaching and another in Choreography and Dance Technique Studies. Currently, Zuce is focused on making the Locking dance community grow in Los Angeles, by teaching at professional studios and hosting free community sessions in

the area called “Let’s Lock!” Her goal is to give opportunities to the new generation of dancers who care and respect the legacy of the street dance OGs. SETH “REAKTION” HILLARD (Russian/Ensemble) attended Toledo School for the Arts where he crafted his love for dance and choreography.

At a very young age Seth fell in love with Hip Hop culture paying special attention to the element of B-boying.

Combining uncanny flexibility, imaginative versatility, and meticulous musicality he made a name for himself as B-boy Reaktion (rēˈakSHən) winning Midwest and National Bboy competitions. While evolving his craft in dance Seth also developed other skills in tumbling, skateboarding, and martial arts like Capoeira. In 2012 he packed up his dream and moved to LA to pursue a career in Dance.

Within a matter of a few months Seth landed his target agency, booked his first audition, and was working as a professional dancer. Michael Jackson’s video, “Love Never Felt So Good” and Nick Cannon’s video, “Looking For A Dream” are just some of the work Seth has on his blooming resume.

Featuring in commercials for Pepsi, Men’s Warehouse, and a VH1 Super Bowl spot, the extremely humble and always smiling Seth has grown fast in the entertainment industry. He credits his advances in dance to working with top choreographers such as Chuck Maldonado, Tone & Rich, Oth’than Burnside, and many more. “A dancer’s job is to turn an audible art form into a visual art form. As dancers we translate music for people to physically see. We are all artists and our only job is to follow our dreams.”

DUSTIN “D-PAYNE” PAYNE (Flute/Ensemble) is very humbled and excited to join the cast of HHN for his 3rd year. Since starting his dance journey with his church’s “Praise Dance” team at age 12, Payne has been featured on Season 15 of “So You Think You Can Dance” as part of top 10 men and represented “World of Dance” as a judge and dancer. His recent adventures include but are not limited to live performances and music videos with artist DaBaby, as well as his first national commercial with Starbucks. Payne is looking forward to creating a memorable experience for the audience again this holiday season.

JARVIS L. BENSON (Violinist) comes from a family of musicians and covers a lot of musical ground in the artistic world. The classically-trained New York-based musician has had the opportunity to collaborate with many major artists—most notably Solange, Chris Martin, Regina Carter, Why Don’t We, and many others.

He was part of the Emmy Winning production of “Jesus Christ Superstar— LIVE” featuring John Legend, and also part of the Grammy winning album GUMBO Unplugged by PJ Morton. He currently serves as principal violist/ violinist, Managing Director & Music Supervisor for Rootstock Republic, a string production company based in New York City.

DJ BOO (Original Beats & Remixes/ Performance DJ) is a-NY based Fil-Am DJ/musician who has shared the stage with Ghostface Killah, DJ Kool Herc (The Godfather of Hip Hop), KRS-1, Snoop Dogg, and Common. He has backed wordsmiths like Eternia, The Juggaknots, and Omar Offendum.

In 2014 he served as a cultural ambassador for the U.S. in Nepal, Mozambique, and Swaziland where he performed and conducted Hip Hop workshops alongside The Nomadic Wax Collective as part of the American Music Abroad Tour. He has also had the honor of performing at Jacob’s Pillow backing Brooklyn based Hip Hop dance company, Decadancetheatre.

JON “GIFTED” JIMENEZ (Chocolate/Ensemble). Born in El Paso raised in Dallas, Texas, Jon grew his movement artistry in the heart of the Dallas metroplex, becoming one of the most influential leaders in the community. He now shares his knowledge, love & experience for dance & how it contributed to his mental health along his path. Providing insight into the culture while exposing the depths of where movement can ignite the human spirit. Fun Fact: Does a lot of interesting voices. Sometimes funny.

JENNIFER WEBER (Director & Choreographer) is an Olivier and Emmy Award-nominated artist based in New York City and Los Angeles. She made her West End debut as the choreographer of & Juliet (Olivier Award Nomination), a new musical featuring the songs of Max Martin currently playing at

THE HIP HOP NUTCRACKER

JACKIE AGUDO (Tea/Ensemble) aka Bgirl JK-47 of Diamonds In The Rough, Supreme Beingz and sponsored dancer for Monster Energy, can serve as a role model for multi-talented, hard-working artists everywhere. A recognized international competitor, she took top prize at Red Bull’s very first BC One Camp USA B-Girl Cypher in 2018. In addition, she has performed on a plethora of stages and is now currently on tour with The Hip Hop Nutcracker. She tours throughout the U.S. and the world as a workshop facilitator teaching, encouraging and inspiring people of all ages with her love and passion for the culture and art of street dance.

THE HIP HOP NUTCRACKER

the Shaftesbury Theater in London.

Weber made her film debut as the choreographer for the Disney Channel Original Movie, Zombies 2. Her choreography for the music videos from that film have been viewed online over 500 million times. She recently choreographed Petrushka Reimagined for the virtual series, A New Stage, presented by CLI Studios and starring NYC Ballet principal dancer, Tiler Peck, international ballet star, Brooklyn Mack and hip-hop icon, Lil Buck.

Off- Broadway choreography credits include KPOP (Upcoming Broadway Transfer/Lortel Nomination), Teenage Dick (The Public/Ma-Yi Theater Company) Cruel Intentions (LPR/ US National Tour), Stockholm (U.S. premiere). Her concert dance work has been performed at Jacob’s Pillow, New York City Center, The Apollo, The Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center, Southbank Center, and The Stanislavsky Music Theatre, Moscow. www.jenniferwebernyc.com MIKE FITELSON (Writer/Co-Creator) is the executive producer at the United Palace, the 91-year-old Wonder Theatre in Washington Heights, Manhattan’s 4th largest theatre. In 2014 as the executive director of the nonprofit United Palace of Cultural Arts (UPCA) he co-created The Hip Hop Nutcracker with Jennifer Weber, adapting the story and supplying the images for the scenery, and produced its premiere.

Fitelson has worked to build the Northern Manhattan arts community for 18 years. He co-founded the annual arts festival, the Uptown Arts Stroll, in 2003; served in every capacity of the Manhattan Times, the bilingual community newspaper of Washington Heights and Inwood, from 20022011; and helped found the nonprofit Northern Manhattan Arts Alliance in 2006. He is thrilled the show is returning to the Paramount Theatre in his hometown of Oakland, CA, where he watched his first Nutcracker in the early 1980s.

BRANDON STIRLING BAKER (Lighting Designer) is an award-winning lighting designer for theatre, opera and dance.

His work can be seen on stages throughout the country and abroad including Lincoln Center, Kennedy Center, Walt Disney Concert Hall, Guggenheim Bilbao, New York City Ballet, San Francisco Ballet, Hong Kong Ballet, Opera Philadelphia, Alvin Ailey

American Dance Theater, Miami City Ballet, Boston Ballet, Joffrey Ballet, Houston Ballet, Pacific Northwest Ballet, Dutch National Ballet, Semperoper Dresden, Staatsballett Berlin and many others. Recent collaborations include new works by Justin Peck, Sufjan Stevens, Savion Glover, William Forsythe, Anthony Roth Costanzo, Shepard Fairey, Benjamin Millepied, Jamar Roberts, and Daniel Buren. In 2019 Baker received the prestigious Knight of Illumination Award for Dance. www.stirlingbaker.com SARAH GOSHMAN (Production Stage Manager) is thrilled to be touring with the Hip Hop Nutcracker for the first time. Favorite credits include Another Rose (Virgin Voyages); Disaster!, Kinky Boots, The Addams Family (Weathervane), A Chorus Line (Reagle Music Theatre), RENT (John W. Engeman Theatre), I See London, I See France (NYMF), and several national tours with Flamenco Vivo. Proud member of AEA. sarahgoshman.com ASHLEIGH KING (Directing Fellow) is a DC-area performer, Helen Hayes award-winning choreographer, and teaching artist. Most recently, she served as Assistant Director to Moritz Von Stuelpnagel and Movement Coordinator for Teenage Dick at Woolly Mammoth. Her work has been seen in Working: A Musical with the Labor Heritage Foundation at Black Lives Matter Plaza, Fairview at Woolly Mammoth, Second City’s Love Factually at the Kennedy Center, and Artscentric, Adventure Theatre MTC, and Toby’s Dinner Theater. Her performance credits include multiple productions at The Kennedy Center, Olney Theatre, Ford’s Theatre, Studio Theatre, and Signature Theatre.

LAURIEN DE MUNCK (Stylist) A young female from Belgium, Laurien transitioned from being a dancer to pursue her passion for styling. Since the beginning of her journey in this field, her dedication to the work and motivation to grow has led her to exceptional projects and experiences. She took her time to explore a combination of collaborations, commissioned work and side projects. Throughout her career, she’s had the great fortune to work on some truly inspiring projects, while meeting many influential and creative individuals along the way.

Laurien believes in working together

to create a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts. She has worked and styled for multiple magazines and brands such as DOLLS KILL. Her personal touches for individuals in the industry have changed careers and have helped booked numerous jobs. Laurien will continue to strive to link personal happiness from the inside to radiating a personal beauty on the outside, whilst always respecting the soul and energy of the clientele.

REBECCA EASTON (Company Manager) is an arts manager and producer working in dance, theater, and circus around the world. As a company manager, she has worked in over thirty countries and across the United States with companies including Cirque du Soleil, Pilobolus, Lincoln Center, Inbal Pinto & Avshalom Pollak Dance Company, and the Guthrie Theater.

As a producer, she has developed workshops and full productions with companies such as Loom Ensemble (Vermont, NYC, Dubai) and Band of Toughs (Denver & Boulder, Colorado.)

She also has a background in directing, dramaturgy, and teaching, and she graduated from Columbia University’s School of the Arts in 2008. She is thrilled to join Maximum Entertainment for this year’s tour of The Hip Hop Nutcracker.

ALLIED GLOBAL MARKETING (Tour Marketing) is a full-service integrated marketing agency working with the world’s largest entertainment, sports, consumer and lifestyle brands, including 75+ Broadway shows over two decades. Current Tours: Ain’t Too Proud, Charlie/Chocolate Factory, A Christmas Carol, Hadestown, Mean Girls, The Play That Goes Wrong, Pretty Woman, RENT, Tootsie.

BIZ CHICA MEDIA (Social Media) is a black and woman-owned full service digital marketing agency founded 14 years ago by Tracy Chapman-Nolan.

Select clients include Disney Theatrical Touring: Frozen and The Lion King, The Pulitzer Prize winning musical A Strange Loop (Broadway 2022), Wicked, Jagged Little Pill, Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, MJ: The Musical, Disney/ ABC Television Group, The Theatre Leadership Project, Black Theatre United, Google, The RLJ Companies, The McBride Sisters and Williamstown Theatre Festival. www.bizchica.com

New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), located in downtown Newark, NJ, is America’s most diverse performing arts center, and the artistic, cultural, educational and civic center of New Jersey, where great performances and events enhance and transform lives every day. NJPAC brings diverse communities together, providing access to all and showcasing the state’s and the world’s best artists while acting as a leading catalyst in the revitalization of its home city. Through its extensive Arts Education programs, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. NJPAC has attracted nearly 10 million visitors (including more than 1.7 million children) since opening its doors in 1997, and nurtures meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents.

EVA PRICE (Executive Producer) is an ACLU honoree for her commitment to works spearheaded by female creatives and people of color, and a Crain’s 2020 Notable LGBTQ Leader and Executive. She is a three-time Tony Award-winning producer of over 18 Broadway plays, musicals, and concerts, a member of The Broadway League’s Executive Committee, and on the producing team of Level Forward- a new studio venture founded by Abigail Disney and Killer Content. Current and notable productions include: Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill (2 Tony Awards), Oklahoma! (2 Tony Awards, Best Musical Revival), What the Constitution Means to Me (2 Tony Noms., National Tour 2020), Angels in America (Tony-winning Broadway Revival starring Nathan

Lane and Andrew Garfield), Dear Evan Hansen (6 Tony Awards), On Your Feet! (The Story of Gloria and Emilio Estefan); Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons on Broadway!, Peter and the Starcatcher (5 Tony Awards), Colin Quinn Long Story Short (directed by Jerry Seinfeld), Annie (Tony-Nominated Musical Revival), The Merchant of Venice starring Al Pacino (TonyNominated Play Revival), Carrie Fisher’s Wishful Drinking, The Addams Family (starring Nathan Lane and Bebe Neuwirth), as well as several solo shows and critically acclaimed concerts starring The Temptations & The Four Tops; Kathy Griffin; Lewis Black; and Hershey Felder. Recent off-Broadway projects include Cruel Intentions: The ‘90s Musical (le Poisson Rouge, National Tour), the Drama Desk-nominated Found (Atlantic Theater Company & Philadelphia Theatre Company), Benjamin Scheuer’s award-winning The Lion (Drama Desk winner, Off-West End winner for Best Musical), and Bess Wohl’s critically acclaimed Small Mouth Sounds. International and Touring Credits include: The Magic School Bus, Live!: The Climate Challenge, and Ella, a bio musical about the life and music of Ella Fitzgerald. Eva is the host and creator of the new podcast My First Show. For five years Eva worked as an assignment editor and coordinating producer for special projects at ABC News, spending her last year producing and reporting on stories relating to Broadway for ABCNEWS.COM.

DENVER CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS GRATEFULLY ACKNOWLEDGES THE FOLLOWING SUPPORT IN ITS 2021/22 BROADWAY SEASON

PLEASE BE ADVISED • FACIAL COVERINGS are required for everyone 2+ at all times.

• LATECOMERS and those exiting the theatre are seated at predetermined breaks in designated areas.

• PHOTOS, RECORDING & CELL PHONE USE are prohibited.

• CHILDREN 6+ are welcome in our theatres and must be ticketed.

• DRINKS are allowed in provided containers.

• ASSISTIVE LISTENING DEVICES, LARGE PRINT PROGRAMS & BOOSTER SEATS are available in most theatres. Ask an usher to direct you.

• BRAILLE PROGRAMS are available with 2 weeks’ notice to ckrueger@dcpa.org or 303.893.4836.

Members of Denver Theatrical Wardrobe, Wigs, Hair and Make-up, Union 719 Linda Ackerschott Robin Appleton Julie Bassignani Carrie Breidenbach Vonnie Clough Craig Cory Cyndie Cory Laura Cotugno Steve Davies Anne Davis Amber Donner Carolyn Dore Deborah Guess AnnSue Gunter Judy Holabird Amoreena Knabb

Leslie Lambert Taylor Malott Anthony Mattivi Sharon Millikan-Hale Callie Morrow Tim Nelson Lisa Parson Laura Payne Yolanda Pollock Dave Poole Alen Richardson Liz Spadi Amy Tepel Marybeth Tscherpel Eliza Vlasova Barb Wilson

DPAC House Crew Mark Anthony Perry Elliot James R. Gralian

EJ Posselius Albert Sainz, Sr David A. Wilson

THE BUELL THEATRE is part of the Denver Performing Arts Complex, owned and operated by the City and County of Denver, Arts and Venues.

CITY & COUNTY OF DENVER Michael Hancock, Mayor ARTS AND VENUES Ginger White-Brunetti, Executive Director For information call: 720.865.4220

THE HIP HOP NUTCRACKER

MEP (General Manager) is a producing, developing and management company founded by Avram Freedberg, Mary Beth Dale and Eva Price; and is joined

by Managing Director/General Manager Carl Flanigan. Select Broadway, OffBroadway and Touring credits include What the Constitution Means to Me (National Tour 2021), August Wilson’s Jitney (National Tour 2019-20), Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical, Small Mouth Sounds, Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons on Broadway!, The Hip Hop Nutcracker; The Lion; Verso; Black Light, Born for This (LA and Boston), 50 Shades! The Musical, Ivy + Bean The Musical, Voca People, and Colin Quinn: Long Story Short. www.maximumcompany.com

THEATRE IS BACK!

JAN 14 - 16, 2022 BUELL THEATRE

FEB 2 - 6, 2022 BUELL THEATRE

NOW OPEN! “The most ‘ extra’ Christmas event in town... magical.”

– 303 Magazine

Hanzon Studios and DCPA Off-Center Present Camp Christmas Created By Lonnie Hanzon

NOW - DEC 26 • TICKETS $8 - $25 HERITAGE LAKEWOOD BELMAR PARK BROADWAY SEASON SPONSORS

THEATRE COMPANY SEASON SPONSOR

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT

DENVERCENTER.ORG OFFICIAL TICKETS: 303.893.4100

THE

best collection

I S Y O U R S.

MODERN

combining style and quality into a beautiful wardrobe that’s uniquely yours.

New arrivals on Instagram @barbaraandcompany Monday ~ Saturday, 10-6 • Sunday 11-5 • By appointment DENVER • 303.751.2618 • 1067 SOUTH GAYLORD BOULDER • 303.443.2565 • 1505 PEARL STREET

www.barbaraandcompany.net

SIX CATERING PARTNERS. UNLIMITED POSSIBILITIES. Make food and drinks a highlight of your next event and dazzle your guests with five-star presentation — all without lifting a finger or breaking your budget. Select one (or more) of our exclusive catering partners to team up with our theatrically trained, in-house production staff so we can help make your wedding, corporate event or fundraiser a smash hit!

Biscuits + Berries | Catering by Design | Epicurean Group | Occasions Catering Serendipity Catering | Sodexo Live! - Kevin Taylor Restaurant Group - Olive & Finch

BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT TODAY: denvercenter.org/venue-rentals or 303.572.4471

NAME A SEAT TO LEAVE A LEGACY. Welcome to a new season of thrilling plays, moving musicals and never-before-seen world premieres.

WE’RE GLAD YOU’RE HERE! We invite you to take advantage of an exclusive, limited-time opportunity to name a seat in our newly renovated theatres. Honor the lasting impact that theatre has had on your life and help us reignite the DCPA.

SEAT NAMING OPPORTUNITIES* The Marvin & Judi WOLF THEATRE

$1,500– $2,500

The Dorota & Kevin KILSTROM THEATRE

$1,500

THE SINGLETON THEATRE

$1,000

* Naming opportunities are good for 15 years and may not be available for your designated seating assignment. Seat plaques hold up to three lines of text, 21 characters per line, including characters and spaces.

To discuss other naming options, please call 303.446.4812 to speak with the Development Department. All proceeds up to $300,000 will be matched by Dorota and Kevin Kilstrom and support A Grander Opening capital campaign.

SCAN TO SELECT A SEAT AND MAKE YOUR DONATION TODAY. Monthly payment options are available

IS THIS

SHAKESPEARE

T

This season is all about returning favorites — A Christmas Carol, Camp Christmas, Hip Hop Nutcracker and Shakespeare!?! While Romeo and Juliet isn’t on the season lineup, it returned — for free — as part of DCPA Education’s Shakespeare in the Parking Lot program.

What started as a performance and workshop series for middle and high school students has expanded to community centers, parks and libraries.

Plus, in addition to the well-known balcony scene between two star-crossed lovers, the repertoire now includes abridged productions of three Shakespearean classics — Romeo and Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and (new this year) Macbeth.

Throughout September and October, eight actors loaded up a pickup truck and headed out to 24 schools, two libraries, Riverfront Park and UCHealth. More than 7,000 students and community members enjoyed the free performances. Additionally, the troupe facilitated in-class workshops that used elements of the plays to connect the students to situations they face each day — peer pressure, privacy, parental responsibility, friendship and loyalty. Make sure to watch denvercenter.org and sign up to receive our monthly email newsletter to discover when Shakespeare in the Parking Lot will perform at a community center near you.

This program is made possible through the generous support of the Morgridge Family Foundation.

Photos by McLeod9 Creative

WHICH I SEE BEFORE ME?

A GIFT THAT INSPIRES THEATRE EDUCATION CLASSES AT THE DCPA

ADULT | TEEN | CHILD All skill levels welcome

ENROLL TODAY Education & Community Engagement

Enjoy our complimentary Romeo and Juliet audio play.

DENVERCENTER.ORG

This project is part of Shakespeare in American Communities, a program of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest.

Sponsored by

A Q&A WITH

KURTIS BLOW, THE RAP LEGEND

UPSTAGE EVERY OTHER GIFT.

WHO PUTS THE “HIP” IN

THE HIP HOP NUTCRACKER

TURN YOUR SPECIAL MOMENTS INTO MEMORIES THAT LAST A LIFETIME.

A

THE HIP HOP NUTCRACKER NOV 19-20, 2021 • BUELL THEATRE 20

APPLAUSE • NOV 2021 – JAN 2022 • 303.893.4100 • DENVERCENTER.ORG

GIVE THE GIFT OF THEATRE!

Redeem for Musicals • Plays • Classes Subscriptions • Venue Rentals Photos by Tim Norris

Anyone who knows rap or hip hop knows Kurtis Blow. As the first rapper to be signed by a major label, Blow has been blowing up the charts since 1979 with 10 albums in 11 years including the self-titled “Kurtis Blow,” “Deuce,” “Party Time,” “Ego Trip” and “America.”

As a founding father of hip hop, Blow was eager to return to the stage with The Hip Hop Nutcracker. But a return after the pandemic didn’t always seem so certain…and not for the reasons you might think.

Less than a year ago, the 62-year-old Blow had heart transplant surgery.

“I’m feeling great!” he said in a recent exchange. “My recovery from the heart transplant, less than a year ago is going very well! I have been blessed with a new 34-year-old heart. I don’t foresee any problems in performing in the future, as I have regained my full strength and I’m in good health and getting stronger every day. Praise God!!”

Blow, a deeply religious man, co-founded the Hip Hop Church where he serves as rapper, DJ and Minister. In his official bio he says, “…in terms of these young people out here who love God but do not like to go to church, only Hip Hop can bring them back.”

Maybe the same thing is true of the theatre.

“The show is a one-of-a-kind, holiday experience that brings together the entire family,” Blow described. “Your kids, mom and dad, and the grandparents can enjoy this show together!

“I can’t wait to get back on stage with these talented hip hop dancers and musicians! And I can’t wait to see the audience standing on their feet and throwing their hands in the air and everyone saying, ‘Oh yeah!’”

While the delivery of Tchaikovsky’s classic story might be different, Blow assures us this new twist on a beloved tale will be familiar. “We still have Byron the nutcracker, Maria Clara, the mouse king who is now the mouse queen played by a female b-girl,” Blow explained. “What is different is we have a DJ playing hip hop beats throughout the performance. The sound of the fusion of Tchaikovsky’s classical music with modern hip-hop beats is unbelievable.”

“Hip hop is for everyone just like The Hip Hop Nutcracker.

Audiences have responded to the sprit and message of our show: LOVE conquers all. I really believe that. And we show that every night.”

DENVERCENTER.ORG/ GIFT-CERTIFICATES

DCPA DCPATEAM TEAM

DCPA Janice Sinden ....................... President & CEO Gretchen Hollrah ........................................... COO Lydia Garcia ......................Executive Director, Equity & Organization Culture Donna Hendricks................ President & CEO Executive Assistant Julie Schumaker....................Manager, Board Relations & COO Executive Assistant

Jane Deegan ................................Administrator Michael Kimbrough ............................Manager, Engineering Brian McClain.................. Manager, Custodial Casey Meschievitz ...............................Manager, Environmental Health & Safety Carmen Molina, Judith Primero Molina, Juan Loya Molina ............................Custodians EVENT SERVICES

BROADWAY & CABARET

Savanna Campbell, John Ekeberg ...................Executive Director Samantha Egle.....................................Managers Colin Dieck, Anne Fitzgerald, Administration Alex Premschak, Seth Miller....Technicians Ashley Brown ....................Business Manager Thomas Duffin ..........Manager, Technology Alicia Bruce ...........................General Manager Cody Gocio .......................................Coordinator Stori Heleen-O’Foley ..........................Lighting, Garner Galleria Theatre Team Lead Abel Becerra ......................Technical Director John Hess..........Manager, Sales & Business Herb Caldwell+, Anna Hookana+ ...................Core Stagehand Shane Hotle...............................Audio Engineer Tara Miller ...................... Manager, Operations Brook Nichols ....................Technical Director DEVELOPMENT Will Stowe ..................Audio/Video Engineer Jamie Clements ....................... Vice President Ian Wells......................................Video Engineer Megan Fevurly .......................................Manager, Grants & Reports MARKETING, SALES & PATRON Amanda Gomez.....Manager, Annual Fund SERVICES Marc Ravenhill .................Associate Director, Donor Relations Lisa Mallory ................................. Vice President Whitney Staloch ............Associate Director, Marketing Major Gifts Heidi Bosk ...............Associate Director PR & Megan Stewart .....................Manager, Events Integrated Marketing, Broadway & Cabaret Erin Walker .................................Senior Director Emmy Cook .....................................Coordinator, Broadway & Cabaret EDUCATION & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Brenda Elliott, Allison Watrous ...............Executive Director Paul Koob............Senior Graphic Designers Stuart Barr ...........................Technical Director TJ Forlenza ..........................................Copywriter Claudia Carson ...................Teaching Artist & Claire Graves ............................................Director, Produced Programs Manager, Playwriting & Bobby G Leslie Channell ........................................Director, Brittany Gutierrez ................................Manager, Communications Business Operations Emily Doherty .....................Teaching Artist & Jeff Hovorka...Director, Sales & Marketing, Broadway & Cabaret Manager, Theatre for Young Audiences Programming Emily Kent.....Director, Insights & Strategy Rya Dyes .............................Assistant Registrar Lucas Kreitler.......Junior Graphic Designer Patrick Elkins-Zeglarski .....................Director, Linda Lang...............................Project Manager Education & Curriculum Management David Lenk.................................... Videographer Linda Eller ................................................. Librarian Michael Ryan Leuthner......................Director, Digital Marketing Jesús Quintana Martínez..................Director, Community Engagement Emily Lozow ............................................Manager, Broadway & Cabaret Timothy McCracken .............Head of Acting David Saphier ......................Teaching Artist & Kyle Malone..............................Director, Design Manager, In-School Programming Katie Mount.......Manager, Email Marketing Elizabeth Schmit....................Office Manager Whitney Testa .............. Executive Assistant, Marketing & Broadway Melissa Sumner .....................................Registrar Charlotte Talbert .................................. Librarian Austin Walker ..........Manager, Social Media Rachel Taylor .......................Teaching Artist & Juliana Whelan ..............................Coordinator, Produced Programs Manager, Literary Engagement & Resiliency Suzanne Yoe.............................................Director, Content & Communications Justin Walvoord.................Teaching Artist & Management, Shakespeare in the Parking Lot Ticketing Services Samuel Wood......................Teaching Artist & Jennifer Lopez .........................................Director District Liaison Christina Adamoli .......Counter Show Lead Kirsten Anderson*, Brad Steinmeyer*, FACILITIES Gregory Swan* ........... Subscription Agents Glen Lucero................................................Director Patricia Bizarro, Benjamin Carroll, Lindsey Cervantes, Jennifer Gray*, Dwight Barela, Mark Dill, Clint Flinchpaugh .............................. Engineers Noah Jungferman*, Michael Mathey, Andrew Sullivan* ...................... Ticket Agents Jodi Benavides, David Bright, Benjamin Koenig ..........Security Specialists Adam Busch* .........Manager, Subscriptions Judy Briggs......................................... Front Desk Jerry Dennis*, Edmund Gurule*, Elias Lopez*, Quentin Crump......................................Manager, Hayley Solano*.............Counter/Show Lead Security & Guest Relations William Dutton III, Merry Davis ........................Financial Manager Kirk Petersen.................. Associate Directors

Roger Haak ..............Manager, VIP Ticketing Scott Lix* ................... Temporary Out Bound Sales Agent Kassandra Lopez........Manager, Box Office Elizabeth Sieroslawski*.........Temporary FT Off-Site Show/Counter Lead

Lighting Design Charles MacLeod ...................................Director Lily Bradford .......................................... Assistant Reid Tennis+ ............. Production Electrician

Lisa Roebuck ............................. Vice President Vincent Bridgers.................. Senior Ticketing System Analyst Jacquelyne Glover..... Software Developer Simone Gordon ................Program Manager Brian Kudalis ......Senior Network Engineer Brandon LeMarr..................... Senior Systems Administrator Sarah Martinez, Allyssa Welker................Help Desk Analysts Jacob Parker ...........................................Manager, Data & Applications Joseph Reecher ......................Junior Systems Administrator

Paint Shop Jana Mitchell......... Charge Scenic Designer Kristin Hamer MacFarlane, Melanie Rentschler...................Scenic Artists

Sound Design Alexander Billman ...........................Supervisor Group Sales Wesley Halloran+, Jessica Bergin ........................................ Manager Meagan Holdeman+.....................Technicians Madeline Young .............................Coordinator Stage Management Theatre Services Michael Morales.................Production Stage Carol Krueger ......................................... Manager Manager Nora Caley, Kaylyn Kriaski, Andie Burns, Katy Gentry, Myrisa Martin.........................House Managers Harper Hadley, Sage Hughes..................Stage Management Aaron McMullen, Dylan Phibbs, Leilani Lynch, Stacy Norwood, Apprentices Valerie Schaefer...........Assistant Managers Rita Cofield, Corin Davidson, Heidi Echtenkamp, Anne Jude, Maggie Kayes, Rick Mireles, Kristen Mun, ACCOUNTING & FINANCE Malia Stoner ............................Stage Managers Jane Williams....................................................CFO Riley Goossen ...Stage Management Intern Sara Brandenburg ................................Director, Accounting Services Scene Shop Michaele Davidson ... Treasury Accountant Eric Moore............................Technical Director Jennifer Jeffrey ......................................Director, Albert “Stub” Allison, Financial Planning & Analysis Robert L. Orzolek, Valerie Lingbloom ................General Ledger Josh Prues ....Associate Technical Directors Accountant Tyler Clark, Amy Wynn Pastor, Jennifer Siemers........Director, Accounting Kyle Scoggins ..................Scenic Technicians Louis Fernandez III .......................Lead Scenic Technician HUMAN RESOURCES Brian “Marco” Markiewicz ....................... Lead Elvira Morales ............................ Vice President Carpenter Brian Carter, Lizette Collazos ...... Directors Prop Shop Kaitlyn Faust.................................Administrator Paul Johnson.........................Payroll Specialist Robin Lu Payne .......................................Director Monica Robles............Supervisor, Mailroom Jamie Curl, Tory Fink, Georgina Kayes, Ashley Lawler ....Artisans Meghan Markiewicz ...Associate Supervisor INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Costume Shop Janet Macleod........................................Director/ Design Associate Meghan Anderson Doyle .....................Design Associate Catherine Gagnon ............................First Hand Carolyn Plemitscher................................Draper Costume Crafts Kevin Copenhaver .................................Director Chris Campbell ....Scenic Design Assistant

THEATRE COMPANY

Wigs Administration Diana Ben-Kiki ...................................Supervisor Charles Varin .....................Managing Director House Crew Ann Marshall.........................General Manager Douglas Taylor+ ................................Supervisor Sabina Rivera ...................Company Manager James Berman+, William Loving+, Stephen Mazzeno+, Kyle Moore+, Artistic Christopher Coleman ........Artistic Director Matt Wagner+, Riley Wood+ ...Stagehands Melissa Cashion.................. Artistic Producer Joseph Price+........................................ Assistant Charlie Miller....Associate Artistic Director Wardrobe Lynde Rosario......................Literary Manager Anthony Mattivi^ ..............................Supervisor Grady Soapes ..................Artistic Producer & Robin Appleton^, David La Beaux^, Director of Casting Amber Donner^, Lisa Parsons^........................................... Dressers Production Jeff Gifford .................................................Director Amanda Clark, Jerome Horng ..........................Wig Assistants Julie Brou ............Administrative Assistant/ Office Manager * Member, I.A.T.S.E. Local B-7 Matthew Campbell... Production Manager Scenic Design Lisa Orzolek ...............................................Director Kevin Nelson, Nicholas Renaud................................Assistants

+ Member, I.A.T.S.E. Local 7 ^ Member, I.A.T.S.E. Local 719

Staff list current through Oct 20, 2021

PROUD PARTNER OF DCPA BROADWAY

S Michael is singing again after COVID-19.

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Singing at church and gigs across the country with his cover band, Michael Peoples’ love of music matched his optimism and zest for life. Then, in 2020, he became one of the first people in Colorado to get COVID-19. Fast forward to two weeks intubated in the ICU, his voice temporarily silenced.

“I was on oxygen, and at first, nothing would come out. It was devastating. But eventually, my voice started coming back,” Michael said.

He made a remarkably fast recovery, got his voice back and resumed his quest for a kidney donation. Born with a polycystic kidney disease, Michael has managed to spread joy with his passion for music despite living on dialysis since 1999.

Michael’s story is a prime example of how the arts help create extraordinary lives. Now, he needs a kidney to save his life as well as his art.

UCHealth recognizes all artists and their impact on the health and well-being of so many audiences. In our mission to improve lives, we strive to offer care addressing body, mind, heart and all the magic in between.

Read more about Michael at uchealth.org/stories and call 720.848.0855 if you’re interested in becoming a living-organ donor to someone in need.

APPLAUSE • NOV 2021 – JAN 2022 • 303.893.4100 • DENVERCENTER.ORG

PROUD SPONSOR OF DCPA’S BEST OF BROADWAY SOCIETY FOR 18 YEARS

CIBC is committed to supporting DCPA theatre and education programs because arts education builds confidence, fosters critical thinking and shapes tomorrow’s leaders.

I

It has been CIBC’s privilege to support the Denver Center for the Performing Arts’ Best of Broadway Society, and their ongoing efforts to enrich the Denver community, for the past 18 years. During this time, CIBC professionals and their families have had the pleasure of attending many notable performances, and with 30 shows starting this November, they can enjoy Broadway once again!

The company has seen firsthand the impact that the DCPA has made through arts education. To further this important work, CIBC is committed to benefiting DCPA theatre and education programs because arts education builds confidence, fosters critical thinking and shapes tomorrow’s leaders.

CIBC also strives to ensure its clients’ success. The company provides wealth management, tailored commercial, personal and small business financial solutions across the US. The team is driven by its passion to be the leader in client relationships. CIBC strives to understand each client’s story, financial needs and goals because the team is committed to helping make their clients’ ambitions a reality.

CIBC is proud to serve as a long-time sponsor of the DCPA and to further deepen its engagement with this worthy cause.

Private and Commercial Banking solutions are offered through CIBC Bank USA, Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender. CIBC Bank USA and CIBC Private Wealth Group, LLC are both indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of CIBC. CIBC Private Wealth Group and its subsidiaries do not provide, and are not responsible for, the products and services offered by CIBC Bank USA. CIBC Bank USA (Bank) will not pay employees of CIBC Private Wealth Group or its subsidiaries for referring clients to Bank, but to the extent permitted by applicable laws and regulations, the referral of clients to Bank for eligible products or services may be considered by CIBC Private Wealth Group in determining discretionary compensation to employees. The CIBC logo is a registered trademark of CIBC, used under license. Investment Products Offered are Not FDIC-Insured, May Lose Value and are Not Bank Guaranteed. This ad is not to be construed as an offer to buy or sell any financial instruments.

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APPLAUSE • NOV 2021 – JAN 2022 • 303.893.4100 • DENVERCENTER.ORG

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THE LION KING

L

Long before masks were ever considered “personal protective equipment,” they were functional works of art.

In Africa, for instance, they are meant to be used and serve ceremonial purposes: Accepting a boy into manhood, exorcising evil spirits, capturing invisible supernatural forces and…to tell stories.

Seen on a wall or a table, a mask may seem static, but when used in storytelling or a ceremony, the mask comes alive.

So was the goal when Tony Award-winning Director Julie Taymor brought Disney’s The Lion King to theatrical life.

Thomas Schumacher, President & Producer of Disney Theatrical Productions, knew that the only way to make The Lion King work on stage was to re-imagine the story in a completely theatrical way. So he tapped Taymor, an avant-garde director whose use of innovative, sometimes larger-than-life puppetry and breathtaking staging had taken the theatrical world by storm.

Once Taymor agreed to direct the project, the artistic vision fell into place.

She was very inspired by African masks, which are, “more abstract, much more stylized, much more essential than the characters’ faces from the animated film,” Taymor explained.

Working with renowned mask and puppet designer Michael Curry, Taymor and a team of skilled mask makers, sculptors, puppeteers and artisans spent 17,000 hours creating hundreds of masks for the original production.

As the show opens, the audience sees lions, baboons, elephants, rhinos, zebras, giraffes, cheetahs, birds, all coming to honor the new prince. But upon closer look, the human performer is also exposed under every animal costume and mask.

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“Julie’s idea was very different,” said Schumacher, “because she said that although this is a story told with animals, it’s a human tale. And so to do that she wanted humans revealed at all times. Whether you play a principal character, whether you play an ensemble person who is an animal or a plant, you always see the person [actor].”

Taymor worked with the film’s co-director Roger Allers and screenwriter Irene Mecchi, who co-wrote the book for The Lion King stage adaptation, to tackle the challenge of creating animal characters from human performers. “Masks are actually very liberating for people because when you put on these things, you are released from yourself,” Taymor explained. “And so the operation of the puppetry and the movement of the actors with the masks is as important in storytelling as the story itself.”

Instead of having an audience gasp and wonder, “How did they DO that?”, Taymor wanted to reveal the HOW— the ropes, pulleys and wires that create the magic as well as the human beings that bring the characters to life. When special effects are hidden, the audience is passive, but by revealing the inner workings of its magic, The Lion King asks audience members to actively use their imaginations to “fill in the blanks.”

“The poetry in theatre is its transparency,” Taymor said.

“We’re not fooling you to have you really think that you’re in the jungle, that you really think it’s a giraffe. We don’t need to do that in the theatre. We have an audience that’s dying to suspend their disbelief. Not willing…hungry.

They’re there to be taken for a ride.”

This article was compiled by material provided by Disney’s The Lion King including The Lion King DVD and The Lion King education video series.

APPLAUSE • NOV 2021 – JAN 2022 • 303.893.4100 • DENVERCENTER.ORG

8 Lionesses Dance ©Disney. Photo by Deen van Meer.

MAKE THE STORY IN DISNEY’S

EXPLORE THE MASKS OF EACH ANIMAL CHARACTER MUFASA’S MASK 11 oz.

Mane is peacock feathers, mahogany & balsa wood VIEW VIDEO (Please mute in theatre)

SCAR’S MASK 20 oz.

Hair is turkey feathers covered with cheese cloth & painted VIEW VIDEO (Please mute in theatre)

SIMBA’S MASK 16 oz.

34 hours to make Face is hand painted to look like wood VIEW VIDEO (Please mute in theatre)

LIONESS MASKS 12 in the show Each mask is hand painted with different tribal markings VIEW VIDEO (Please mute in theatre)

DISNEY’S THE LION KING DEC 2 – JAN 2 • BUELL THEATRE ASL interpreted, Audio-Described and Open Captioned performance: Dec 18 at 2pm For family activities, please visit denvercenter.org/news-center.

PROUD SPONSOR OF DCPA’S MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL PLAYWRITING COMPETITION

A vibrant and diverse artistic community is essential to the health of a city, and Denver’s culture is a significant part of what draws and keeps people here.

A

Achieving a truly secure future requires both smart financial planning and a healthy lifestyle. Transamerica offers solutions that help people throughout their lives, whether it’s saving and investing, protecting themselves and their loved ones, or preparing for an active and meaningful retirement.

The people of Transamerica bring expertise, creativity and heart to everything they do — and to the communities where they live and work.

The company’s charitable giving and volunteerism in Denver includes a wide range of causes, with particular focus on youth and families. This reflects a belief that supporting and educating young people helps set them on the path for the kind of future they want.

Contributing to the Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) is consistent with Transamerica’s desire to underwrite programs that foster creativity in the areas of music and performing arts for youth and the underserved.

Transamerica looks forward to continuing to support programs such as the DCPA’s Middle and High School Playwriting Competition. The company is pleased to play a role in advancing literacy, creativity, writing and communication for these talented young individuals.

— MARIJN SMIT, HEAD OF TRANSAMERICA ASSET MANAGEMENT

(L-R): A snow leopard sculpture dedicated to Transamerica is featured at the Denver Zoo. | Transamerica employees volunteer with Habitat for Humanity. | Students participate in Young AmeriTowne, sponsored by Transamerica.

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APPLAUSE • NOV 2021 – JAN 2022 • 303.893.4100 • DENVERCENTER.ORG

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PROUD PARTNER OF THE DENVER CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

C “We are excited that in-person shows are returning. CBS4 is committed to covering arts and culture and is a proud partner of the DCPA. We cover Colorado first and invite you to tune in to CBS4 and visit www.cbsdenver.com for updates on performances in our community.

Enjoy the show!”

CBS4 has seen the impact COVID-19 has had on the local arts and cultural communities. Throughout it all, the station and its team have supported and highlighted the innovation and creativity taking place within arts organizations as they have shifted programs in order to continue serving the community. CBS4 continues to encourage everyone to support the area’s beloved arts and cultural institutions and talented individual artists.

CBS4 proudly supported the “Arts Through It All” campaign managed by CBCA, Denver Arts & Venues and the SCFD, as well as the Colorado Music Relief Fund, and the COVID Arts & Culture Relief Fund.

The station understands the positive impact arts has on the community — it fosters community pride and a sense of belonging, contributes to a community’s economic vitality and enhances the quality of life for everyone.

— CBS4 GENERAL MANAGER TIM WIELAND

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APPLAUSE • NOV 2021 – JAN 2022 • 303.893.4100 • DENVERCENTER.ORG

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