THE CAST Adapted for the Stage by Ken Ludwig Directed by Keith McCoy Production Stage Manager...................................................Jess Adams Scenic Designer...........................................................Matthew Swindell Lighting Designer........................................................Katie Underwood Costume Designer................................................................Alex Allison Props Designer.................................................................Patti Jo Fenzel Sound Designer & Engineer ........................................Caleb Huneycutt Technical Director.............................................................Walter Pigford Company Manager.......................................................Rebecca Gossett Assistant Stage Manager..................................................Shepherd Leak Assistant Technical Director..................................................David Jones Costume Shop Assistant Manager..................................Mollie Lipkowitz Wardrobe Head.................................................................Melody Carter Wig Supervisor....................................................................Liliana Harrell Props Assistant.....................................................................MH Harrison Production Technician..........................................................Scottie Scott Scenic Artist....................................................................Katie Andreachi Dialect Coach..............................................................Rebecca McGraw ASM Interns...............................................Talia Fordham, Morgan Terry House Manager..............................................................Machell Dooley
Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com The videotaping or other video or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited.
Osama Mahmoud Ashour Hercule Poirot
Andy Brown Monsieur Bouc
Aleigha Burt Mary Debenham
Marcus Hopkins-Turner* Hector MacQueen
Carter Eldridge Michel the Conductor/ Marcel
Karen Clark-Green* Princess Dragomiroff
Courtlyn Holt Greta Ohlsson
Larren Woodard Countess Andrenyi
Bonner Church Helen Hubbard
Gregor Patti Colonel Arbuthnot/Samuel Ratchett
Christian Becerra Male Swing
Chelle Leary Female Swing
Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express adapted by Ken Ludwig was originally staged by McCarter Theater Center, Princeton, NJ. Emily Mann, Artistic Director; Timothy J. Shields, Managing Director. The production subsequently transferred to Hartford Stage, Hartford, CT. Darko Tresnjak, Artistic Director; Michael Stotts, Managing Director *denotes member of Actor’s Equity Association
CAST BIOS FROM THE DIRECTOR Welcome to the second half of the Springer Theatre’s 2023-24 Season! We’re thrilled to have you aboard and onstage for Agatha Christie’s timeless masterpiece “Murder on the Orient Express,” a classic “whodunnit” filled with plot twists and unexpected turns, as Inspector Detective Hercule Poirot attempts to solve a “murder most foul.” I want to highlight the fantastic work of our scenic design team. In this production, the stage setting is more than just a mere backdrop; it is a canvas that sets the tone for the entire performance. The team’s attention to detail in the scenic design transports you to the opulent art-deco era of the Orient Express passenger train and plays a crucial role in the plot unfolding. From the true-to-life props to the vintage costumes of the 1930s, our carefully crafted sets evoke an immersive atmosphere with subtle nuances woven into the elements that become essential components enhancing the storytelling experience. As you take your seats and the lights dim, we invite you to be transported to a world of glamour, suspense, and unexpected twists. The scenic details and our talented cast will envelop you in the rich tapestry of this classic tale, making every scene come to life with a touch of the theatre magic you’ve come to expect from the Springer. We sincerely hope you thoroughly enjoy the production and that the combination of stellar performances and captivating visuals leaves you on the edge of your seat. Your presence in the audience is the final piece of this theatrical puzzle, and we are grateful to have you join us on this thrilling ride. As always, we appreciate your support. May “Murder on the Orient Express” captivate your imagination and linger in your thoughts long after the final curtain falls. Enjoy the show! Warmest Regards,
Keith McCoy
CAST BIOS Osama Mahmoud Ashour (Hercule Poirot) is an actor from the Washington, DC Metro area. They attained their MFA in Acting from the University of Alabama in 2022. This is their first show with the Springer Opera House and they are very excited for the opportunity to bring to life this iconic Agatha Christie character. Some of their favorite roles include Disgraced (Amir), Merchant of Venice (Shylock), and The Complete Works of William Shakespeare [Abridged] (Jess track). Osama would like to thank his family (both biological and found) for their constant love and support. Andy Brown (Monsieur Bouc) made his debut on the Springer stage in Elf the Musical. A Tennessee native, Andy has worked regionally in theaters across the country. Some past favorite roles include Mill Mountain Theatre’s Into the Woods (Baker), Nebraska Theatre Caravan’s A Christmas Carol (Bob Cratchit), Old Creamery Theatre’s Freud’s Last Session (C.S. Lewis), and more recently, Creede Repertory Theatre’s CLUE: On Stage (Mr. Green). Many thanks to Keith and company for this opportunity. Aleigha Burt (Mary Debenham) is an Atlanta based actress. She graduated from Columbus State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Performance in the Spring of 2021. During her freshman year of her collegiate training, she made her acting debut on the Springer stage in the production of Jackie and Me. You may have also seen her in Steel Magnolias (Shelby) and The Play That Goes Wrong (Sandra/Florence Colleymoore). As always, she is extremely excited to be invited back for yet another wonderful production here at the Springer Opera House. Aleigha would like to thank God for another opportunity to do what she loves and her parents for their endless support! Marcus Hopkins-Turner* (Hector MacQueen) is an Atlanta native, a proud father of two and Morehouse College graduate. He is excited to be returning to the Springer stage. You may recognize him from Fences (Troy). Other favorite stage roles and TV credits of his include Tuacahn Center for the Arts’ Prince of Egypt (High Priest Hotep), the Alliance Theater’s Hands Up (They Shootin), the Aurora Theater’s Mary Poppins (George Banks), Nickolodeon’s Young Dylan and AMC’s 61st Street. Carter Eldridge (Michel the Conductor/ Marcel) holds a BFA in Theatre Performance from Columbus State University, and hails from right here in Columbus, GA. His favorite Springer credits include Shrek the Musical
CAST BIOS (Pinocchio), Spamalot (Ensemble/French Taunter), and Escape to Margaritaville (Ensemble). Some of his favorite CSU credits include Spring Awakening (Georg), Love’s Labour’s Lost (Costard), and Peter and the Starcatcher (Black Stache). Enjoy the show! Karen Clark-Green* (Princess Dragomiroff) is making her Springer Opera House debut. The veteran equity actor’s career spans over 60 years in theater, opera, and dance. Her first show, The King and I was with Betty White as one of the Kings children. She has performed in Europe as well as across the country, theater credits include: Sweet Charity, Kismet, Man of LaMancha, South Pacific, Anything Goes, Camelot, Lil Abner, Peter Pan, Bye Bye Birdie, Fences, and Black Nativity. Opera credits include: Porgy and Bess (every soprano leading role as well as director/choreographer) Cosi fan tutte, Aida, The Old Maid &The Thief, La Boheme, Carmen, Phantom of the Opera, The Medium, Madam Butterfly, and Rigoletto, She has also appeared in PBS productions of Albert Herring and Hansel &Gretel and the world premier of Dream Sequence in Vienna, Austria. She has performed with many orchestras, has five produced plays and has authored five books. Courtlyn Holt (Greta Ohlsson ) is no stranger to the Springer stage. However, this will be her first straight play on the Springer stage! You may have recently seen Courtlyn in the Springer’s productions of Elf the Musical (ensemble/ u.s. Jovie), Cabaret (Fritzie/u.s. Sally) and Elvis (Dixie/Ann-Margret). You may have also seen her in earlier Springer productions of Little Shop of Horrors (Audrey), White Christmas (Rhoda), Shrek the Musical (Gingy/Sugar Plum Fairy), both productions of Evil Dead (Linda), and Winter Wonderettes (Cindy Lou). Some of her other favorite credits include Legally Blonde (Elle Woods), and Pippin (Fastrada). Courtlyn would like to thank her mentors, friends, her fella, family and the Springer Opera House for their constant love and support! Larren Woodard (Countess Andrenyi) is thrilled to be a part of the 2023-2024 Season. You may recognize her from past Springer shows such as Best Little Whorehouse in Texas (Angel) and White Christmas (Rita), among others. Some of her other favorite credits include Disney’s Newsies (Katherine Plumber) and Matilda (Miss Honey). When not performing on the stage herself, Larren takes joy in teaching future performers to shine. She completed her MEd at Columbus State University in Theatre Education in 2022. Most recently, Larren has participated in Springer Theatre Academy and the Summer Learning Experience throughout
Muscogee County Schools. Special thanks to Mom, Dad, Trey, and Eevee for being the wind beneath her wings. Enjoy the show! Bonner Church (Helen Hubbard) is delighted to return to the Springer after appearing last season as Della in The Cake! She holds BFA in Musical Theatre (Shenandoah University) & MM in Musical Theatre (Oklahoma City University) having studied under the late, great Florence Birdwell. In addition to The Cake, favorite credits include: The Great American Trailer Park Musical (Betty); White Christmas (Martha), Mamma Mia (Rosie), Holiday Inn (Louise), Savannah Sipping Society (Marla Faye), and A Christmas Story (Miss Shields). Gregor Patti (Colonel Arbuthnot/Samuel Ratchett) is a theatre and film actor originally from Jackson, Mississippi. He received his BFA in Acting for Stage & Screen in 2021 from the University of Mississippi. While in undergrad he appeared in several productions including Fly By Night, Assassins, Urinetown, & a NY production of Romeo & Juliet at NYSaF Powerhouse. He also directed several productions including Crimes of the Heart, Romeo & Juliet, & IX. His most recent film credits include The Jacksons (John Carter), Where the Crawdads Sing (Chase’s Friend), and his first NYC film Lear’s Shadow (Sam). His most recent theatrical credits include his London theatrical debut in As You Like It (Silvius) and RENT with the Nashville Repertory Theatre. Christian Becerra (Male Swing) is excited to return to the Springer for his thirteenth production! He is currently a local working actor and retired US Army Veteran. You may have previously seen him in Cabaret (The Emcee), Little Shop of Horrors (The Dentist), White Christmas (Bob Wallace), and The Wizard of Oz (Tinman). Other favorite credits include First Date (Aaron), Next to Normal (Henry/Dan), and Look Forward: The Ruby Bridges Story (Dr. Coles). Chelle Leary (Female Swing) is excited to return to the Springer stage, but is no stranger to the Springer Opera House, this being their 6th year here. They are one of the hosts of No Shame Theatre and a teacher with the Academy. Some of their favorite roles have been Evil Dead: The Musical (Deadite), She Kills Monsters (Evil Gabbi/Monsters/Narrator), Buster Scruggs (Burlesque Dancer/ The Kid), and Legally Blonde (Kate). In addition, Chelle also teaches dance at Elite Dance Academy and is a performer and producer with Dead End Drive-In. She hopes you enjoy the show and are inspired to make and share art of your own, because everyone is an artist.
THEATRE COURTESIES ELECTRONIC DEVICES No doubt we have all been distracted by a cell phone or watch alarm ringing or lighting up when attending the theatre. Out of consideration for your fellow audience members, we ask that you turn off all elctronic devices that emit noise or light. Thank you.
ALLERGY ALERT
For the safety of those with allergies, please refrain from the use of scented perfumes, colognes, or lotions before coming to the theatre.
LATE SEATING
We endeavour to minimize the distraction for our patrons and actors when seating latecomers. If you arrive late for a performance, you will be seated at the first appropriate moment in the show in designated latecomer seating. You are welcome to move to your assigned seat at intermission.
EMERGENCY EXITS
We ask that you please take a moment to identify the exit nearest you, so you can safely exit in the event of an emergency.
TALKING
Please refrain from talking to your neighbor during the performance, as it can be distracting to other audience members as well as the performers on stage.
PRODUCTION BIOS KEITH MCCOY (Director) has worked successfully as a theatre professional for more than twenty years and is now the Springer’s Associate Artistic Director. He is a native of Portsmouth, Va., and graduate of Norfolk State University. Keith Patrick McCoy is a creative, skilled professional actor, director, choreographer, writer, and arts educator. As a performer his endeavors have allowed him to work in all types of venues, from indoor to outdoor, regional theatres, summer stock companies, national tours, and theme parks throughout the United States. He has also performed at The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the largest arts festival in the world and takes place in Scotland’s capital city. JESS ADAMS (Production Stage Manager) earned a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from Columbus State University in 2016. They are the former Production Manager / Production Stage Manager of Majestic Repertory Theatre, an immersive theatre in Las Vegas, NV. Jess leads the Springer’s stage management team and serves as the primary stage manager for the Main Stage Series. Previous credits include The Bodyguard, Mother of Rain, ACE: The Eugene Bullard Story, Million Dollar Quartet, Kudzu: The Musical, Jackie & Me, Last of the Red Hot Lovers (Springer Opera House); The Manson Family: An Opera, Sweeney Todd (Majestic Repertory Theatre). jessadamssm.com MATTHEW SWINDELL (Director of Production) is the Springer’s Director of Production. He graduated from Columbus State University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Design and Technology. He has worked on many Springer productions over the past ten years in a variety of different roles including Director, Scenic Designer, Lighting Designer, Technical Director, and Road Manager for the Springer’s touring company, Springer Theatricals. You may also remember Matthew from his time on stage as Teddy Roosevelt in the Springer’s 2017 production of Newsies. KATIE UNDERWOOD (Lighting Director) is a senior member of the Springer artistic staff responsible for casting and contracting production personnel for all mainstage and studio productions. She is also one of several directors on our staff with past credits including The Wizard of Oz and The Great Gatsby. Katie serves as the primary lighting designer for productions taking place in our McClure Theatre with favorite designs including Ace: The Eugene Bullard Story, The Jungle Book, and Mother of Rain. She is a Springer Theatre Academy alumni and a graduate of the CSU with a BFA in theatre design and technology. Katie recently completed her MBA from Kennesaw State University. She is an avid runner and fitness enthusiast. When not in rehearsal or doing school work, Katie enjoys
spending time with her husband and two girls. If she’s not at work or at home, she’s probably at the gym. ALEX ALLISON (Costume Designer) has been working as a costume and wig designer across the US. He has worked with notable companies such as the York Theatre, Berkshire Theatre Festival (BTF), Norwegian Creative Studios and others. He is currently the Resident Costume Designer at the Springer Opera House. Upcoming Productions: On Cedar Street (BTF). Theatre Credits include: Hoagy Carmichael’s Stardust Road (World Premiere)(York Theatre NYC), Shrek the Musical, White Christmas, The Bodyguard, Little Shop of Horrors (Springer), Grease (Temple Theatre). He worked on Jersey Boys, Swing the Musical and Warren Carlyle’s Havana! at Norwegian Creative Studios (Wardrobe Supervisor). PATTI JO FENZEL (Props Designer) earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater Design and Technology from CSU in 2010 and has worked in theaters around the country including Florida Repertory Theater, Texas Shakespeare Festival and Opera New Jersey. CALEB HUNEYCUTT (Sound Designer) is a graduate of Columbus State University he earned a BFA in Theatre Design and technology with a concentration in Sound Engineering. He originally was a volunteer at the Springer in 2020 and now is the resident sound designer and engineer. He has previously worked at CSU as the Technical Engineer during the 2023 GRT Summer stock. WALTER PIGFORD (Technical Director) is from Georgia, graduating from Georgia Southern University Armstrong Campus (previously known as Armstrong State University) with a BA in theater. After graduating he lived in NYC for 4 years working on the Off-Broadway circuit and working full time as the Assistant Technical Director at Pace University. He has worked at various regional theaters around the country but is glad to be back in his home state bringing theater to the Columbus community. REBECCA MCGRAW (Dialect Coach) has appeared on the Springer stage in The Little Baby Snooglefleejer, The Diary of Anne Frank, Sarah Plain and Tall, Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, Dinner with Friends, The Full Monty, and Sister Act. She Directected the premiere production at CSU’s Riverside Theatre, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and also A Piece of my Heart. She also served as the dialect coach for CSU’s Columbus Repertory Summer season for The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940, and most recently Leading Ladies.
PRODUCTION BIOS
PATRON $900
The Springer Society is the driving force behind vital programs which could not exist without donor support. Ticket sales only make up a portion of the costs of preserving and protecting this beautiful National Historic Landmark building and providing educational and artistic programs. If you are a Springer Society member, Thank You! If not, we invite you to join. For more information about Springer Society, email Devolpment Director Tate LeClair at tleclair@springeroperahouse.org
PRODUCER $30,000
Aflac Beloco Foundation Georgia Council for the Arts Fox Theatre Institute In Memory of Dr. Mary W. Schley In Memory of Mr. & Mrs. Otis T. Burnham J. W. & Ethel I. Woodruff Foundation McClure Family Foundation National Endowment for the Arts Tom, Lucile, Lucy & Betsy Flournoy
INVESTOR $15,000
Jack & JoRhee Pezold Mr. & Mrs. Frank B. Schley, III Ray M. & Jane R. Wright Foundation Synovus Bank & Trust The Steeplechase at Callaway Gardens VisitColumbusGA W.C. Bradley Companies
CHAMPION $6,000
Cherry Pease Dr. Alice Budge & John Greenman Egan Foster Joe & Gail McClure Mr. & Mrs. William B. Turner, Jr. Mrs. Elizabeth T. Corn Dr. & Mrs. Richard Robbins
CHALLENGER $3,000
Bernard & Sylvia Witt Foundation The B.T.C., Inc. Dr. & Mrs. David H. Levine Dr. Marie Trenga & Mr. Brian Ribeiero Four G’s Charitable Trust Global Payments Goldsmith Foundation of the Chattahoochee Valley Hardaway Foundation Jacquie Rawls
CHALLENGER $3,000 (Continued) Janet G. & Colston Kemp Jim & Melissa Thomas Mr. & Mrs. Ray Brinegar, III Mr. and Mrs. Anthony D. Link Mrs. Kate C. Wilson Mrs. Barbara Swift Patrick Williams Sallie T. & John C. Martin, II Steve & Kent Butler Walter Alan Richards Foundation Warner Neal, Jr.
GUARDIAN $1,500 5Q Partners Betty L. Auten Bobbi Farber & Thomas Walsh Brian Luedtke Carla Stickles The Rev. Dr. Cynthia Garrard & Dr. R. Spencer Garrard Creek Stand Partners, L.P. Dr. & Mrs. Jerry Goldsmith Dr. Karen Stone Frank & Pamela Feagle James G. & Kathryn A. Hillenbrand Jim & Melissa Thomas John & Sam Newton Kelsey & Barbara Kennon Lisa Bradfield Powers Burns Marcia English Marnie Salter Mary & Bo Bradley Mr. & Mrs. Jack J. Pease, III Mrs. Janice P. Biggers Mr. & Mrs. J.W. Feighner, Jr. Rocky & Sabine Kmiecik Susan Stephenson Suzanne & Ed Burdeshaw The Jackson-Burgin Foundation, Inc. Zada & Bill Feighner
Chris and Wendy Miller Christy Brumfield David E. & Lori B. White Four G’s Charitable Trust Jeff & Linda Howard Jennifer Curry Jerry B. & Marjorie Newman Jimmy & Barbara Motos Joel & Suzanne Fine Karen & Chris Stephenson Mary Celia Evans Mr. & Mrs. J. Madden Hatcher, III Mr. & Mrs. James P. Trotter, Jr.
Mr. & Mrs. John W. Walden, Jr. Mr. Neal Fenter Murray & Celia Solomon Orin Lincoln Phyllis & Newt Aaron Rennie & Cathy Bickerstaff Ron & Nancy Adam Sallie T. & John C. Martin, II Sheila & Tommy Davis The B24 Fund The Thornton Jordan Family Foundation Wade & Adrianne Wallace Willcox-Lumpkin Foundation, Inc.
BENEFACTOR $600 Charlotte Alex Saunders Gil and Shari Maulsby John & Louise Laney Maria Luisa Aranas Martha Tubb Michael & Yanci See Mr. & Mrs Greg Duckworth
Mr. and Mrs. Joel O. Wooten Phillip Smith Ray & Lee Vinson Rob and Elizabeth Harbison Ronald King Shirley Shavers
STAR $300 Adele Lindsey Andrew & Janette Pippas Annie Kirkland Automated Business Machines Barbara Turner Betty Townsend Bill & Ann Crowder Bill & Dixie Turman Bill & Stephanie Privette Bob & Brenda Ammerman Bob Patterson Bobbie & Don Dakin Brad & Sally Baker Carol Sue Goodman Chuck & Robbin Brasfield Claude & Molly Scarbrough Columbus Fire & Safety Equipment Co., Inc. Dan & Carol Trimble Dan & Sandy Dawson Daniel & Linda Windsor Debbie & Dick Tompson Debbie Anderson Dr. & Mrs. Cecil Whitaker, Jr. Dr. & Mrs. David Lewis Dr. & Mrs. Robert H. Carpenter, Jr. Dr. and Mrs. Philip Brewer Dr. Bob & Lisa Bunting Dr. Bruce Boretsky Dr. Daniel & Mrs. Bridget Alcide Dr. Robert & Jane Marcus Dusty & Sam Wellborn Ed & Lana Helton
Erin Peacock Ethelyn W. Riley Henry Steven Farmer In Memory of Anita Headley by Bill Headley Iveta & Jim Boyanchek Jeffrey & Kimberly Adams Jim & Ann Campbell Jim & Ann White Joanne Cavis Julia & Ronnie Culpepper Larry & Patty Cardin Mr. & Mrs. Eric & Len Kilgore Margaret B. Smith Mike & Ruth Nichols Mr. & Mrs. J. Rick & Cindy Alexander Mrs. Richard Hallock Mr. & Mrs. Seth L. Knight III Mrs. Kathy J. Riley Neil & Joanne Rice Pam & Charlie Johnson Pat & Jack Wilensky Peter & Robin Logue R. Clark Gillett, Jr. Sherida Brannan Shirley B. Moon Taylor and Grace Burton-Edwards Terry & Jim Irvin Virginia Burdo Wendy and Steven Daknis William Bray William Fort Morgan & Stephen Morse
HONORARIUMS AND MEMORIALS
PARTNER $150 Agnes A. Shelton Alan Smith Andrea Mauricio Anthony & Rhonda Guerrera Barbara & Nicholas Leclerc Bernice & Mansfield Bias Billy Kendall Bonnie & Leslie Cohn Bonnie Fitzpatrick Booth and Frances Malone Carol Hecht Carolyn Bermudez Charles E. Hall, Sr. & Sally Hall Charles Hindbaugh Charter Tax, INC. Chris & Virginia Peebles Chuck & Robbin Brasfield Col. & Mrs. Lawrence K. Green Cornelia S. Partain Dale & Jan Ellis Dave & Jane Wilson David & Linda Turner David & Pat Snipes Deborah Kidder Dick & Jessica Tasse Don Chancy Donna & Kevin Kelly Donna M. Smith Dr. & Mrs. Doug Lazenby Dr. & Mrs. James A. Lawrence Dr. and Mrs. Richard Nurnberg Dr. David & Karen Lewis Dr. Kayron & Mr. John Laska Dr. Margaret Schaufler Dr. Thomas A. & Sherry F. Wade Drs. Barbara & Leon Minsky Elaine M. Muntzer Eva & John Chappelle Evelyn & John Maddox Faye & Joseph Waller Frank B. & Maureen Orr Gary & Teresa Abell
Geary & Murvina Underwood Guy & Marianne Smith Gwyn Newsom Harry & Dottie Lange Iris Tate Jacqueline Buck James & Allena Sperry James R. & Frances W. Parker Jason & Kimberly Kreisler Jean & Gerald Kent Jeane Swift Jeanette Marshall Jim & Mary Matthews John & Vicky Partin John Williams Johnny Thigpen Katherine Morgan Barbay Kathleen Hogencamp Katie Deal Kayron Laska Kelly & Martha Dimon Kenneth M. Hamill L.T.C. Patricia Krause, U.S.A. Retired Larry Simpson Laura & Dirk Chandler Lee & Belinda Brantley Linda Walker Lois M. Tryon Louise & Judson W. Patten Lynda Eldridge Maj. Gen. & Mrs. Kenneth C. Leuer Margaret Schaufler Margie B. Bicketstaff Maria L. Taylor Marie Brooks Mary Ann Marshall Melanie Smizawski Mickey Kiker Mike & Linda Stephens Mike & Patty Kelley Milton & Kathleen Jones Monte & Robbin Blackmon Mr. & Mrs. Charles Hindbaugh
Mr. & Mrs. James D. Hayes Mr. & Mrs. John D. Johnston, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Richard L. Olson Mr. & Mrs. Seth Harp Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Scott Mr. Alan F. Rothschild Mr. and Mrs. R. Chris Peebles Mr. and Mrs. Scott M. Bryan Mr. Cameron P. Bean Mrs. John H. Deaton Nancy & Carlton Bendinger Neil Block & Regina Satlof Patty Kimbrough Taylor Paul & Sandra Young Peggy Gindville Randy & Jessica Kitchens Raymond & Dana Gonzalez Raymond Campbell Richard & Marcy England Richard L. Olson Richard Wright Robert & Kim Routzong Robert & Leann Hoidahl Robert G. Brown Ron & Rhonda Jackson Sandra Pollock Larkin Scott & Alice Bryan Scott & Erin Hart Scott & Tisha Freeman Seth & Linda Harp Seth Pound Stephen E. & Nancy M. Stainsby Steven & Robbin Henslee Sylvia Black The Hollis Foundation Thomas A. & Sherry F. Wade Tom & Carol Boers Tom & Wynema Gates Vernon & Mary Grace Carroll Vivian Haulton Wallace & Linda Twiggs William J. Cunningham, Jr.
F. J. Springer Founders Circle
Devoted donors who have included the Springer in their wills and estate plans. To learn how you can create a meaningful legacy that will support the Springer’s mission forever, please contact Tate LeClair, Director of Development, at tleclair@springeroperahouse.org. Jack & JoRhee Pezold Mrs. Dorothy “Dot” McClure Otis B. & Eleanor T. Burnham Mr. Barnett Woodruff Mrs. Helena Pease Mrs. Ethel “Sally” Foley
Mr. & Mrs. Thomas B. Buck Mr. & Mrs. Richard Y. Bradley Mr. & Mrs. Thomas H. Flournoy Kelsey & Barbara Kennon Mr. & Mrs. Frank B. Schley, III Dr. & Mrs. David Levine Paul & Dona Pierce
Burton N. & Rita A. R. Lowe Dr. Mary W. Schley Janice P. Biggers Dr. Christine Senn Mr. Cameron Pratt Bean Debra Melvin Faulk Dr. Alice Budge & John Greenman
In Memory of Col (Ret) Robert S. Poydasheff Sr. Kim & David Antekeier Janice P. Biggers Mr. and Mrs. Richard Bradley Helen J. Burgin Chattahochee Family Law Bar Ben & Kathryn Cheek Joyce Chittenden Fountain, Arrington, Bass, Merecer & Lee P.C. Mrs. John H. Deaton Sally and Madden Hatcher, Jr. LTC (Ret) & Mrs. Phillip J. Linn Mr. & Mrs. William Middleton Mrs. Raymond E. Mobley Gary & Carla Stickles Mr. & Mrs. William B. Turner Jr. Eleanor Y. Wheeler In Honor of F. Clason Kyle Mr. and Mrs. Richard Bradley In Honor of Janice P. Biggers Mr. and Mrs. Richard Bradley In Honor of Tom & Lucile Flournoy John & Bitsy Dedwylder In Honor of Debbie Anderson Ronnet & Lydia Rice In Honor of Brian Luedtke Neil & Joanne Rice In Memory of Mr. Lee R. Redmond Jr. Wynne Prather Stevenson Janice P. Biggers
In Memory of Sis Hargrove Mr. & Mrs. William B. Turner, Jr. In Honor of Mr. Frank B. Schley, III Pam & Frank Feagle In Memory of Dr. Mary W. Schley Mrs. Janice P. Biggers Mr. & Mrs. Richard Y. Bradley Alice Budge & John Greenman Rebecca Duggan Pam & Frank Feagle Stacy & Danielle Varner In Memory of SGM Gary Stickles Daniel Cantu Marnie Salter Betty Townsend Sandra Langford Chandra Lothian Sarah Bullard In Memory of Virgina E. Nelson Sandra Langford Mr. Cameron P. Bean Honors Zada & Bill Feighner Tom & Lucile Flournoy Meg & Frank Schley Dusty & Sam Wellborn In Honor of Dr. Alice Budge Christine Albano
A WISE INVESTMENT FUND
Alan & Marinda Smith Alan & Marinda Smith Alec Lennon Alice Budge & John Greenman Angelica Marchionne Anna Lynn Starr Anna Wiley Anne Messner Annette Riggs Arnulfo Astorga Ashley Newhaller Austin Sargent Brandon Mitchell Brian Luedtke Buncie Lanners Caitlin Frost Carrie Theus Charlotte & Jim Minter Chase & Amanda Eiland Courtney Heath Cydney Landreau David & Cathy Woolbright Db Woolbright Debbie Anderson Diane Ellicott Dick Tasse Donna Hutchins Dr. & Mrs. Richard & Conchetta Ousey Dr. Damita James Dr. Dan & Mrs. Bridget Alcide Dr. Franciska Kocsner - The Brain Center Egan Foster Eileen Lynch Elizabeth McFalls Ellen Free Ellen Grace Ridgeway Erin Peacock Four G’s Charitable Trust Frank B. and Meg Schley, III Fred Opalinski Gabbrielle Parker Ginger Thomas Heather Smith Iveta & Jim Boyanchek Jack and Rebecca Basset Jack BroeilsKaroline Hall
Katie (Stokes) Huggins James Minter Jessica Tasse Jodi Atkins John Kaamisky Johnny Thigpen Jordan Battle Julia Morris Jywania Maurice Kaitlin Miller Karen Cascone Karen Cotton-Everett Karoline Hall Katie (Stokes) Huggins Katie McClung Kelli Leak Kerri Stuetzer Kirin Wilson Larren Woodward Laura Forlines Lilia Gillis Linda Chappel Lisa Powers Lucy Peacock Flournoy Macy Cardwell Marian Fletcher Marie Brooks Marie Trenga & Brian Ribeiro Mariela Olivo Max Kountz Meagan Cascone Melissa Gilliland Melissa James Melody Carter Michael & Maxine Denniston Mikayla Cypert Mk Alford Morgan Bryce Mr. & Mrs. Greg LeClair Mr. & Mrs. Seth L. Knight III Mr. & Mrs. William B. Turner, Jr. Mrs. Richard R. Hallock Neil & Joanne Rice Patricia Gann Paul & Dona Pierce Paula & Riley Wolfe Phyllis & Newt Aaron Rabbi Beth Schwartz
Thank you to all of our cash and anonymous donations!
Springer Opera House Theatre Leadership BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Chair.............................................................................................................. Ms. Lisa Bradfield Powers Past Chair.....................................................................................................................Dr. David Levine Secretary.................................................................................................................. Mr. Pete Temesgen Assistant Secretary................................................................................................. Mr. William Morgan Treasurer..................................................................................................................... Mrs. Teresa Abell Assistant Treasurer...................................................................................................Mrs. Bridget Alcide Mrs. James J.W. Biggers Jr. Mr. William Bray Ms. Marie A. Brooks Dr. Alice Budge Mrs. Lauren Chambers
Mr. Neil Clark Ms. Sherricka Day Mrs. Corrin Riley Duckworth Mrs. Cindy Garrard Mr. John Hargrove
Mrs. Barbara Kennon Mrs. Len Kilgore Mr. F. Clason Kyle Mr. Brian Luedtke Mr. Joe McClure
Mr. Caleb Money Mrs. Eliza Morrill Mrs. JoRhee Pezold Ms. LaTivia Rivers Mr. Frank B. Schley III Ms. Iris Tate
Danielle Patterson Varner (CEO/Executive Producer) has served the Springer for more than twenty years - first in sales, then development, and finally as managing director. For the past six years, she has managed day-to-day operations, budget tracking, board relations and historic preservation. Varner is a member of the Rotary Club of Columbus, the chair of the Columbus Cultural Arts Alliance and was named one of “Georgia’s Most Influential Leaders” in 2022 and 2023 by Georgia Trend Magazine.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Chair......................................................................................................................Mr. Frank B. Schley III Honorary Chair............................................................................................................Mr. F. Clason Kyle Mr. Newt Aaron Mrs. Pam Feagle Mr. F. Clason Kyle Mrs. Janice Biggers Mrs. Mary Bradley Mr. Steve Butler
Mr. Tom Flournoy Mr. Frank Foley Mrs. JoRhee Pezold Mrs. Barbara Kennon Mr. Joe McClure Mrs. Elizabeth Ogie
Mr. Frank B. Schley III Mr. Mat Swift Mr. Perrin Trotter Mrs. Dusty Wellborn Mrs. Sally Turner Mr. Bill Feighner
Keith Patrick McCoy (Artistic Director) is wellknown among local audiences, actors, designers, technicians and Springer Theatre Academy parents. Over the past thirteen years, he has served the Springer as guest director, actor, choreographer and instructor. In 2023, he was recognized with the Lift Him Up award for outstanding community service and excellence by the Courier Eco Latino, an independent Columbus newspaper. He works to expand outreach efforts, attract new audiences and leads the process of choosing the productions for each season.
ARTISTIC STAFF Artistic Director.............................................................................................................Keith McCoy Director of Production.......................................................................................... Matthew Swindell Associate Producer............................................................................................. Katie Underwoood Production Stage Manager............................................................................................Jess Adams Musical Director.................................................................................................... Debbie Anderson Properties Designer and Artisan................................................................................ Patti Jo Fenzel Resident Costume Designer and Shop Manager...........................................................Alex Allison Sound Designer/Production Engineer...................................................................... Julianne Slaton Sound Designer/Production Engineer....................................................................Caleb Huneycutt Technical Director...................................................................................................... Walter Pigford Assistant Technical Director...........................................................................................David Jones Costume First Hand.................................................................................................Mollie Lipkowitz Production Associate.................................................................................................... MH Harrison Production Technician.................................................................................................. Scottie Scott EDUCATION STAFF Director of Education................................................................................................DB Woolbright PAIR Director & Assistant Director of Education...................................................Meagan Cascone Education Coordinator...................................................................................................... Kelli Leak Resident Teaching Artist................................................................................................... Sam Bolar ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF CEO/Executive Producer...................................................................................... Danielle P. Varner Director of Marketing and Audience Development......................................................... Allie Kent Director of Development............................................................................................... Tate LeClair Director of Finance........................................................................................................Debra Faulk Director of Patron Services.....................................................................................David J. McCray Company Manager................................................................................................ Rebecca Gossett Marketing Manager........................................................................................................ Jhai James Box Office Manager............................................................................................ Max Nolan Young Community Engagement Coordinator.................................................................... Machell Dooley Rentals Coordinator/NO SHAME Host........................................................................Kevan Baxley Box Office Associate/NO SHAME Host....................................................................... Chelle Leary Landmark Operations Director......................................................................................James Clark
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103 10th St. Columbus, GA 31901
@springeroperahouse
Box Office: (706) 327-3688