Bill Maher
November 7, 2015
From the Executive Director & ISU President Dear Friends, Welcome to the 47th annual Performing Arts Series at Stephens. We are so pleased to have you join us. Since 1969, generations of audience goers have been star-struck by a long list of entertainers who have defined the quality of entertainment you expect to see on our stage. We continue the tradition with a performance for everyone this season. World-class music ensembles, Broadway shows, comedy, dance and acclaimed performers are all at home at Iowa State University and all under one roof. In the age of 24/7 entertainment from countless delivery systems, we thank you for making the performing arts important in your life and to the lives of others. According to the State of Iowa Official Public Register, the arts are a major force in Iowa’s economic development. Over $140 million is generated each year in the state, creating jobs that serve nearly two million Iowans. There has always been a need for audiences and performers to connect in the same space and it is energizing to see our community so passionate and supportive of our Performing Arts Series. As you leave this performance, ask yourself, What took you by surprise? What about the performance inspired and motivated you? What made you stretch creatively? We hope you share your experience with others and come back for more!
Steven Leath President Iowa State University
Tammy Koolbeck Executive Director Iowa State Center
WITH YOU, THE ARTS COME TO LIFE! Invest in the arts with a sponsorship or donation. Ticket sales account for only 77% of the cost of presenting artists at Stephens. Donors and O T sponsors E GIV S T R help bridge A THE ! Y that gap. A OD
BENEFITS INCLUDE (varies by level): • Highest priority seating • VIP parking • Meet-the-Artist receptions
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Give online at center.iastate.edu/makeagift Contact Patti Cotter (515) 294-1238 or pcotter@iastate.edu Standing OVATION 2015–2016 SEASON
Helpful Hints for Your Experience In Case of an Emergency Doctors, parents or guests expecting phone calls are advised to leave their seat location (located on ticket) with the appropriate parties and with the Guest Services Desk, which is located in the main floor lobby. The emergency telephone number during performances is 515-294-2313. Finding Your Seat / Late Seating Seating begins 30 minutes prior to curtain time. Late seating is subject to the discretion of the staff and according to the artist’s contract. Cell Phones and Electronic Devises Audio or visual recording devices and all photography are prohibited during performances. Please turn off all cell phones, beepers, video games and other electronic devices prior to the performance. All electronic devices are to be disabled during the performance. Photography Presence at this performance will constitute your consent and agreement to be photographed and/or recorded in connection with the advertisement and promotion of the Performing Arts Series and Stephens Auditorium, in any and all media now and known hereinafter devised, in perpetuity. Parking Stephens Auditorium has convenient parking in lots adjacent to the building. Lots A-1 and B-3 are reserved for Performing Arts Fund Donors who contribute $300 or more. Parking for mobility-impaired guests is available in Lot F located west of Stephens Auditorium.
Smoking Smoking is prohibited in Stephens Auditorium and on the surrounding grounds. Accessibility Features Wheelchair seating and special seating for the hearing and visually impaired is available. • Accessible parking adjacent to the theater • Accessible restrooms Headphones with infrared listening devises are available for use at no charge at the Guest Services Desk. American Sign Language interpretation may be arranged up to one month in advance of performances. • Guide and service dogs are welcome with advance notice. Please notify the Ticket Office in advance at 515-294-2479 if you have any special requests or concerns regarding accommodations. We are pleased to assist you with your needs. Gift Certificates Gift Certificates may be purchased in any amount and are valid for all events held at Stephens Auditorium and Fisher Theater. You may purchase Gift Certificates by phone or in person at the Ticket Office, Monday-Friday, 10 am - 4 pm. ATM An ATM is located on the ground floor.
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Medical Assistance If you have a medical need, please notify an usher. Medical services are provided by Mary Greeley Medical Center.
Lost and Found To retrieve a lost item, contact an usher or call 515-294-3347 during regular business hours.
Refreshments Food and drink is generally allowed in the auditorium with the exception of symphonic performances.
Ticket Exchange Ticket exchange is an exclusive benefit available only to Performing Arts Series Subscribers and only available for Performing Arts Series events.
Children All children attending a performance must be able to sit quietly in their own seats without disturbing other guests or they may be asked to leave the auditorium. Please use discretion when choosing to bring a child, and remember that everyone must have a ticket.
Know Before You Go! The playbill for each show is made available on each performance page online at center.iastate.edu.
Let’s Be Social Stay connected to the latest news from the Iowa State Center — anytime, anywhere! Visit www.center.iastate.edu to find event schedules, audio samples, video clips, performance reviews, and more! While you’re there, check out other ways to interact: Facebook, Twitter & YouTube
Join discussions about upcoming events, tell us what you’re looking forward to or your reactions to a performance, learn more about visiting artists, and enter to win great prizes!
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Ways to Enhance your Experience Make the Most of Your Experience With These Special Opportunities Before, During and After the Show. When you think of Stephens Auditorium, we hope you think of it not just as a venue for seeing the performing arts, but also as a place where you are engaged as an active participant in the arts. The following events will enhance your visit and make each experience more fulfilling. Free Previews in the Celebrity Café: Engaging presentations offered by experts, ISU faculty members or members of the professional touring group provide unique insights before each performance. Previews are free for ticket holders and occur 30 minutes before curtain time. You’ll find the Celebrity Café on the ground floor, on the north side of the auditorium.
Overture Dinner: We offer a pre-concert meal prior to our classical programming. The buffet is held in the Scheman Building and includes two entrees, dessert, beverages and cash bar. With an informative presentation about the evening’s concert, it is a great way to make it a fun evening with like-minded arts supporters. Master Classes: In master classes, artists will meet with groups of students, usually from Iowa State University and other area schools, and share their knowledge and insight as professional performers. In some cases, the artists will even provide a class for the entire community.
SUBSCRIBE AND SAVE 15% PLUS ENJOY THESE BENEFITS...
ENJOY 3 SHOWS FOR $ 66!
• The Best Seats: Be one of the first in line for your choice of seats, AHEAD of the general public. • The Lowest Prices: Subscribers lock in the best prices at the start of the season. • Free Exchanges: If your plans change, subscribers can exchange their tickets at no charge to any other Series performance up to 24 hours prior to the performance. • Free Replacement Tickets: Lost your tickets? Duplicate tickets can be printed for subscribers at no charge. • Save 15% on Extra Tickets: Subscribers are entitled to 15% off Series tickets throughout the season. • Invitation to the 2016–2017 Series Preview Party: Be the first to hear about the new Series and get a jump on securing the best seats for next season.
View the entire series and subscription options at center.iastate.edu Standing OVATION 2015–2016 SEASON
LET US SET THE STAGE FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT
At the heart of the Iowa State Center, the Scheman Building offers ideal spaces perfect for weddings, receptions, dinners, trade shows, corporate meetings and fundraisers.
SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY! Contact our experienced event coordinators at 515-294-3347 or iscinfo@iastate.edu.
Tuesday December 15 7:30 pm BUY YOUR TICKETS TODAY!
Stephens Auditorium Ticket Office (no service fees) ticketmaster.com • 1-800-745-3000 • Ticketmaster Outlets Standing OVATION 2015–2016 SEASON
Educational Experiences for Youth Youth Matinee Series Parents and educators know that helping a student develop creativity and imagination is one of the most important things they can do. Helping to complete the education formula, our Youth Matinee Series energizes, engages and enhances the overall learning process for students through the magic and wonder of live performing arts produced by professional touring artists.These performances enrich students’ lives and illustrate the dynamic relationship between literature, social studies, history, science, math, world cultures and the performing arts. The Youth Matinee Series is underwritten by the Martha-Ellen Tye Performing Arts Institute endowment.
Martha-Ellen Tye Performing Arts Institute The Martha-Ellen Tye Performing Arts Institute was established through a generous endowment by long-time Marshalltown resident, the late Martha-Ellen Tye. It brings a unique blend of arts experiences to students of all ages through matinee performances, teaching activities in schools, demonstrations and workshops. Now in its 16th year, the program has served more than 200,000 students in grades PreK-12 from across the state of Iowa. Mrs. Tye believed strongly in the power and importance of arts education and vigorously supported programs that develop the “whole person — body, mind and spirit.” The Youth Matinee Series is underwritten by this endowment, which allows us to keep the price at $4.
To learn more about these performances, contact Sara Compton, Outreach Coordinator, at 515-294-7389, e-mail scompton@iastate.edu, or visit www.center.iastate.edu.
Martha-Ellen Tye Performing Arts Institute • For Pre-Kindergarten–Grade 12
2015–2016 Youth Matinee Series I SUSANNE AM JACK GERVAY HARRIET TUBMAN AND THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD
OCTOBER 15
OCTOBER 27
NOVEMBER 23
FEBRUARY 1
FEBRUARY 8
THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR
ISU
The World of Anne Frank
SYMPHONY SYMPHONY
FEBRUARY 16
MARCH 8
APRIL 1
APRIL 18
Admission only $4 in Advance or $5 Day of Show Register today at www.center.iastate.edu/education or call 515-294-3347 Standing OVATION 2015–2016 SEASON
Iowa State Center Staff Tammy Koolbeck............................................................................Executive Director Missy Borton......................................................................... Administrative Assistant Kay Lande........................................................................ Administrative Receptionist Business & Finance Linda Schwartz.............................................................................Business Manager Helen Nelson............................................................. Accounts Payable Administrator Event & Conference Services Pat Dennis.......................................................Director of Event & Conference Services Angie Weeks....................................... Event & Conference Services Sales Coordinator Melissa Johnson.............................................Event & Conference Services Coordinator Dave Burrack.................................................... Event & Conference Services Manager Josh Oakland.....................................................Event & Conference Set-up Supervisor Guest & Client Services Tim Hinderks........................................................... Guest & Client Services Manager Sandra Robinson...................................................... Guest & Client Services Manager Steve Flack............................................................... Environmental Services Manager Greg Gerstein............................................Scheman Environmental Services Technician Marketing & Development Angela Ossian..........................................................................Director of Marketing Jordan Julson................................................................. Digital Marketing Coordinator Holly Boman............................................................................. Marketing Manager Patti Cotter........................................................ Development & Sponsorship Manager Janae Verhelst..................................................................................Marketing Intern Food & Beverage Craig Spillman................................................................. Food & Beverage Manager Kevin Streiff...................................................................................... Executive Chef Katie Ginapp............................................................... Banquet & Catering Manager Emory Ballhagen..........................................................Banquet & Catering Supervisor Technical Operations Steve Harder.................................................................. Theaters – Technical Director Jake Ewalt..................................................Audio/Stage Manager – Technical Director Mike Broich.......................................Exterior/Production Manager – Technical Director Programming & Education Craig Wiebke.............................................................................. Event Coordinator Sara Compton.........................................................................Outreach Coordinator Carol Lamb................................................................................. Outreach Assistant Ticket Office Carrie Erwin........................................................................... Ticket Office Manager Valerie Connell...........................................................Assistant Ticket Office Manager Standing OVATION 2015–2016 SEASON
Thank You for Your Support Performing Arts Fund and Ames International Orchestra Festival Association Donors as of 10/1/15
Impresario $5000 & above Jim Beckwith The Lauridsen Family Endowment
Executive Producer $2500 - $4999 Cecilia & Jack Horner Arthur Klein Warren & Beverly Madden Marianne & David Spalding Ira, Jordan & Julia White Brent & Maggie Wynja
Director $1200 - $2499
Bob & Elizabeth Angelici Irene Beavers Elizabeth Cole Beck Kelli Bennett Jay & Karen Heldt-Chapman 1st National Bank - Ames Willa & Dave Holger Sherilyn & Mitchell Hoyer James & Jody Mueller Mark & Andy North Jim & Frankee Oleson Cynthia & John Paschen, MD Peter & Rae Reilly Richard & Jasmine Seagrave Gary F. & Harriet M. Short Jim & Mary West
Principal Artist $600 - $1199
Anonymous (3) Brian & Tanya Anderson Marc H. Anderson & Family Doris Bacot Ted & Carol Bailey Rick Bartosh Jane & John Baty Stewart L. Burger Lee & Lori Burras Ann H. Campbell
Do-Biz Foods, LLC Patricia Cotter & Peter Orazem Dieter & Renate Dellmann Durbin, Zheng & Son, Inc. Jan & Cornelia Flora Homer & Sandra Gartz Thomas & Allison Greenwald Wil & Marjorie Groves Linda Hansen Mark & Lisa Harmison Judie & David Hoffman Chuck & Betty Horras Jean & Bob Humphrey Charles Hurburgh & Connie Hardy Vicki Jahr Shelle & Steve Kent Jim & Mary Kincart Todd & Jill Klindt John & Diane Kubik Greg & Sue Lamont Allen & Joy Lang Phyllis J. Larry L. Lepke Jane W. Lohnes Erica Marquette Roger & Ruth McCullough John & Pam Miller Patricia A. Murphy John & Helen Olson Sue & Gary Osweiler Carol & Arlen Patrick Mary Jane Pearson & Ramon A. Runkel Mary Jean & Maurice Reimers Dick & Sharon Richman Kent & Lou Ann Sandburg Suzan & John Shierholz Jay & Dea Staker Ted Tostlebe & Marilyn Hanson Douglas & Deborah West Duane & Megan Wolf Carol Wright Robert & Elizabeth Wych
Rising Star $300 - $599
Anonymous Mike & Linda Adams Chris & Garry Alexander Claire Andreasen & Steve Pecenka Sheila Rae Baker Lisa Bannit & William Barry Pat & Louis Banitt Tom & Betty Barton Douglas & Connie Bates LeRoy & Kathy Bergmann Chuck & Carmel Biskner Mary Ann & Jim Black Mark & Deborah Blaedel Jamie Blomgren Roberta S. Boeke Leonard & Janet Bond Barton & Laureen Borg Deanne Brill & Dean Janssen Edward & Jen Buckingham Richard & Maribeth Carlson James & Sherry Carlson George C. & Susan J. Christensen Dan & Anita Clayberg Frank & Kathy Comito Jim & Carolyn Cornette Mark & Isabelle Davidson Roger A. Deal Steven & Ruth Dotzenrod M. Burton Drexler Larry & Barbara Ebbers Kevin & Kari Ehrecke Margaret Elbert Randy & Cathy Fitzgerald Cynthia & Lehman Fletcher Charles & Joanne Frederiksen David & Susan Freeman Mim Fritz Richard & Linda Geil Ethel George Joey & Karen George Dave & Carole Gieseke Kathy & Chuck Glatz Timothy Grandon Susan & David Grant Kenneth & Jill Grant
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Bryan & Joy Graveline Lowell & Jennie Greimann Melba & Karl Gschneidner Barbara & Karl Gwiasda Linda Handsaker Judy Hankins Herbert & Esther Harmison Jon & Bonnie Hunziker Etha S. Hutchcroft James & Marcine Illg Mary Ellen Imlau Marcia Imsande Darren & Sue Jarboe Sue Johnson Tom & Debra Johnson Steve & Nan Jungst Joseph & Karen Kerns LeRoy & Susan Kester Janann King Paul & Adele Knop Marina Kraeva Dan & Sharon Krieger Keith & Brenda Kutz John Landgraf & Phyllis Jones Richard & Irene Lang Ruth G. Larson John & Mary Lawless Donald & Dorothy Lewis Efstathia Lingren Eudene & Susan Lund Elizabeth K. Lyons Greg & Carol Madsen Charles & Barbara Markus Jane & John Mathison Marie Mayer & Larry Brandt Doug & Wanda McCay Judy McDonald Thomas & Dorothy McGee Barbara A. Mengeling & William L. Mengeling, DVM Clete & Joyce Mercier Arlo & Lori Meyer Anja Mudring & Gerd Meyer Dwain & Mary Noffke Susan Norris Don & Evelyn Nystrom Ruth Anne Ohde Danny & Trisha Oldes Larry & Cheryl Olofson Bonnie & David Orth Kathy A. Parsons Don & Jan Payer John & Jacqueline Peeler Alec & Charlton Pendry
John Pesek Pat & Linda Plummer Larry & Joyce Pohlman Emil & Mary Kay Polashek Jolene & Frank Randall William Rich Klaus Ruedenberg Tom & Lorna Safley Dean & Judy Sampson Aaron & Shelly Schroeder Norm & Sue Scott Jerry & JoAnn Sell Barbara A. Shedd John & Sandra Slaughter David & Sherri Smith Jim & Diane Smith Raymond & Jane Stanley Bob & Peg Stephenson Wilma Struss Calvin & Susan Swan Clayton & Ruth Swenson Marcia Thompson Paula Toms Jim & Gloria Toombs Connie J. & Roger C. Underwood Eleanor Vandeventer Jeff & Ann Ver Heul Georgia & Carl Vondra Daniel & Sherrie Vos Mike & Deidre Wahlin Jim & Madeleine Walker Bryan & Kara Warme Mark & Diana Weber Joan E. Welch Becca Wemhoff B. Joan White Maureen Wilt Della Jane Wright Thomas & Zora Zimmerman
Company Member $150 - $299 Anonymous (2) Barb & Jack Adams Franklin & Kay Ahrens Iver & Nancy Anderson Karen J. Andrew Nathan & Holly Aronson Sandi & Dave Austin Richard J. Baumhover Marvin Beck & Jane Farrell Beck
Amy & Steven Becker Kay & Roger Beckett Kay & Roger Berger Nancy L. Besch Carl & Jean Bessman Diane & Ken Birt Judith Blair Suzanne Block Charlene Boll Diane Borcherding Jeff & Jan Breitman James A. & Sharon Brewer Rick & Janet Brimeyer Bob & Rosemary Bulman Terry & Karen Burianek Daniel & Sandra Buss Cheryl Case Margy Chamberlin Gladys & Peter Colwell Randy & Sara Compton Charles & Teresa Connell Harold & Rachel Crawford Paula J. Curran Nancy & Pete Cyr John & Barb Dalhoff Greg & Amy Davis Mary M. de Baca Tedd & Marilyn Devick Jack & Karen DeWolf Brian & Jennifer Dieter Meg E. Dobson State Farm Insurance Boyd & Irene Dohrmann Dee Dreeszen Mark & Terri Dunn Don & Mary Eichner Steve Sapp & Lisa Enloe Judy K. Farthing Jim & Kathy Ferris Bob & Karen Fowser Mr. & Mrs. Albert Freeman Wayne & Evelyn Fuller Deborah Gitchell Jean Griffen William J. Gutowski & Margaret A. Dempsey Dennis & Jane Haahr Mary J. Harms Duane Harris Marjorie Hartman Jerry & Pat Hatfield C.S. Hedlund Susan Hegland & Thomas Andre
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Thank You for Your Support Stephen & Nancy Heideman Bobbie Heimberg Martha Helland Pete & Janet Hermanson Randy & Liz Hertz Tom & Joyce Hertz Carolynne Hoefing Bill & Jody Hoefle Drs. M. Peter & Lorraine J. Hoffman William & Barbara Holt Tim & Susan Hooper Carole Horowitz Dick & Sandy Horton Mina Hertz Jacobs Bruce & Ellen Janke Marian & Roger Jansen Patrick Johnson & Sara Ferguson Bruce & Marie Johnson Rich & Judy Jones Odean Jukam Linda Kelley Delma L. Kernan Karen Kerper Cheryll & Tom Kierski John & Chris Kinley Karen & Wayne Klaiber Jim & Joyce Kliebenstein Terence Alexander & Catherine Kling Gerald Klinkefus Carl Klostermann Roger & Mary Jo Kluesner Richard Koffman Asrun Yr Kristmundsdottir Bev & Ken Kruempel Richard Kruger The Olson & Kushkowski Family John & Susan Lang Harvey & Sally Lapan William & Susan Lawyer Dick & Ginny Lephart Elyse & Howard Levine Amelia Limyao Jeff & Lorie Loehr Greg & Rhonda Lofstedt Robert Lorr Dick & Jackie Manatt Kathy Solko & Steve Manternach Bill Marion Gary D. Mason Harold & Connie McLaughlin
John & Renee McPhee Helen F. McRoberts Glen & Mary Jo Mente Patrick & Ruth Milder John B. & Kathryn M. Miller Patricia & Kemp Miller Paul & Ann Mills John Miranowski & Susana Goggi Larry & Sara Mitchell Ginny & Lee Molgaard Jeannine Moore John & Laurel Mors Ron Mowers & Margaret Epplin Carver Nebbe & Leysan Mubarakshina Charles & Mary Ann Mulford Thomas & Lynn Nehls Don & Becky Nibe Michael & Ginger O’Keefe Dale & Kris Olson Cal & Frankie Parrott Miriam Patterson Jean Peterson Marlys Potter Mabel Prescott Jane Punke Anne & Ken Recker Kathy Rhode Mary E. Richards Jo & Bob Rod Dick & Karen Ross James & Kari Roth Barbara J. Royer Scott & Jean Rude Carolyn Cutrona & Daniel Russell Diane & Don Schaffer Ames Evening Lions Club Jane Schill Linda & John Schuh Gary Schultz Danny & Dianne See Phyllis Seim Dennis & Joan Senne Sam & Becky Senti Frank D. & C. Lynn Seydel Tori Shahidi & Larry Kelley Kenneth & Shirley Shaw Debra Shenk Diana D. Shonrock Al & Kathy Sievers Si & Mary Anne Silence
Clifford Smith Bernard & Victoria Stephenson, Jr. Janet & David Stephenson Jack & Barbara Stoakes Curtis Struck & Megan Fairall Robert & Deanne Summerfelt Ron & Meg Thompson Harvey & Alice Thompson Roy & Debbie Tinguely Steven & MaryAnn Tjaden Jon James & Carla May Tollefson David & Karen Toot Tedra Towne John & Marjorie Uitermarkt Ardy & Dean Ulrichson Jim & Alicia Van Bergen Bev Van Fossen Daryl & Joyce Vegge Lewis & Dorothy Vierling Steven, Kathy & Zach Vince Greg & Lana Voga Gene & Karen Walker Janice Walter Janet Warg Steve & Kay Wessman Toni Wheelock Richard & Elizabeth White Bill & Toni Whitman Gary Wiele Scott & Jan Williams Stephen & Lee Anne Willson Richard & Patricia Wood Steven & Lorraine Woolery Dario D. Zaffarano Suzanne Zaffarano Scott & Kimberly Zahnle Chad & Amy Zmolek
Matching Gift Honor Roll
AXA Foundation Meredith Corporation Foundation Morgan Stanley Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. Principal Financial Group Foundation, Inc. State Farm Companies Foundation
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The Culture Buzz
Iowa’s insightful gateway to arts, theatre, literature, culture, history, entertainment and more, guided by John Busbee, 2014 Governor’s Arts Award winner for Collaboration & Partnership in the Arts. Encourage your creative exploration, indulge your imagination, enhance your life. Catch “The Buzz.”
www.TheCultureBuzz.com Each Wed 11am–1pm on KFMG. Locally 99.1 FM, Globally www.kfmg991.org
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GATHER YOUR FRIENDS AND SAVE! Please call the Ticket Office at 515-294-2479 or 877-843-2368 for more information. Standing OVATION 2015–2016 SEASON
NOVEMBER 30 • 7 PM Stephens Auditorium Ticket Office ticketmaster.com | 1-800-745-3000 | Ticketmaster Outlets Standing OVATION 2015–2016 SEASON
BILL MAHER
For the last seventeen years, Bill Maher has set the boundaries of where funny political talk can go on American television. First on “Politically Incorrect” (Comedy Central, ABC, 1993-2002), and for the last eight years on HBO’s “Real Time,” Maher’s combination of unflinching honesty and big laughs have garnered him twenty-six Emmy nominations. In October of 2008, this same combination was on display in Maher’s uproarious and unprecedented swipe at organized religion, “Religulous,” directed by Larry Charles (“Borat”). The documentary has gone on to become the 7th highest grossing documentary ever. In addition to his television program — which has featured such regular visitors as John Edwards, Ben Affleck, Robin Williams, Arianna Huffington, Alec Baldwin and Michael Moore — Maher has written four bestsellers: True Story, Does Anybody Have a Problem with That? Politically Incorrect’s Greatest Hits, When You Ride Alone, You Ride with Bin Laden and most recently, New Rules: Polite Musings from a Timid Observer. Maher started his career as a stand-up comedian in 1979, and still performs at least fifty dates a year in Las Vegas and in sold out theaters all across the country. Three of his nine stand-up specials for HBO — 2007’s “The Decider,” 2005’s “I’m Swiss,” as well as his most recent, the hilarious, “Bill Maher … But I’m Not Wrong,” — have been nominated for Emmy awards. Maher was born in New York City, raised in River Vale, N.J. and went to Cornell University. He now resides in Los Angeles.
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G
Des Moines Choral Society...
something to sing about! Schubert Mass in G with the Chamber Orchestra Kremlin | october 8, 2015 Christmas with the Choral Society | december 12, 2015 Masterworks Concert | april 16, 2016 Society Celebration | may 7, 2016
For more information | www.dmchoral.org or 515.273.5255 Standing OVATION 2015–2016 SEASON
Nutcracker Ballet at Stephens: A holiday family delight for 35 years
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t’s been 20 years since Robert Thomas watched his ballet student Joy Voelker Matossian audition for the part of Clara in the 1995 Nutcracker Ballet, but he remembers the moment with remarkable clarity. “Joy came to the audition with her hair all done in long ringlets and a big bow, the same way Clara wears her hair during the party scene in Act One,” he said with a chuckle. “Nowadays lots of girls do that for auditions, but Joy was one of the first.” And it worked: She was cast as Clara in that production, her third Nutcracker (she had previously appeared as Clara’s Little Friend and an Angel). Fast forward to 2015. The Nutcracker Ballet at Stephens is celebrating its 35th anniversary, and that little girl who sported ringlets is now a professional dancer who has appeared on stages all over the world. She will return to her hometown to dance the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy for the sixth year in a row. “My first time dancing this role in Ames in 2010 was an amazing coincidence,” she said. The Iowa State Center hired the Cavalier, the ballet’s male lead, first; then without any knowledge of Joy’s connection to central Iowa, he asked her to join him for the job in Ames. “My jaw practically hit the Ames native Joy Voelker Matossian as Clara in the 1995 Nutcracker Ballet at Stephens. She currently lives in Madrid, Spain.
The Nutcracker Ballet welcomes the return of professional principal Joy Voelker Matossian in her sixth year as the Sugar Plum Fairy.
floor as I read his email asking me to perform with him at Stephens!” she said. Little did she know that she would return annually for the next six years— an unusually long run for a guest artist. She has danced with a different male partner each year; this year’s Cavalier will be danced by Ramon Gaitan. “Stephens is an incredible space for anyone to perform in, but to me it has an added meaning and feeling of home,” Joy said. “It was a big part of my childhood as I performed there for Stars Over Veishea, recitals and, of course, Nutcrackers. I spent many hours growing and learning at Stephens both on and off stage. As a child, you don’t realize how blessed you are to have a theater building of its quality and a crew that exemplifies professionalism.” After moving from Ames with her family as a teen, Joy attended several prestigious dance schools, graduating from the acclaimed Interlochen Arts
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Robert and Miyoko Kato Thomas (center) have been artistic directors of every production since 1981. Jerri Baumeister (far left), has overseen costumes for 22 years, and technical director Jake Ewalt (far right) has been working on the production since the beginning.
Academy in Michigan and the State University of New York Purchase Conservatory of Dance. She currently lives in Madrid, Spain, with her husband, where she teaches English as a Second Language through dance. She is thrilled to return to the stage at Stephens for this year’s production. “The production at Stephens has a great community energy,” she says. “The dancers are very supportive of each other and excited to perform the different roles as they age and advance as young artists. It is rare that a guest artist performs many years in a row, and especially as a teacher it has been very special to see the kids grow.” Stephens’ Nutcracker got its start shortly after Robert and Miyoko Kato Thomas moved to Ames, (Robert’s hometown), in 1978 after retiring from their dance careers. The couple opened the Dancenter studio and quickly decided that The Nutcracker Ballet could be a hit in the heartland, even though the ballet was virtually unknown in central Iowa at that time. These days, nearly everyone knows the beloved story of a young girl, a heroic prince, and the fantastic dream they share, carried by Tchaikovsky’s famous score
and featuring parts for dancers ranging from kindergartners to professionals. But in 1981, in Ames, it was a relatively new ballet for the community. “There had been a couple of Nutcracker productions at Stephens in the 1970s, but many if not most people weren’t familiar with the ballet and didn’t know the story,” said Robert Thomas. “We thought it would be a very good fit for the community. Ames is so family oriented, and this is the perfect family holiday piece. It’s also a piece that’s very easy to change and adapt to fit the talents of your dancers each year.” The 1981 production featured 81 dancers, nearly all of whom were students of the Thomases, in two performances. It was broadcast live over Iowa Public Television, and during intermission viewers were treated to an interview with the Thomases. This year’s production will feature 271 dancers in three performances, about half of whom are Dancenter students, and many are former Dancenter students returning to the stage. And Thomas would love to add a fourth production in upcoming years if possible.
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“We find a part for almost everyone who auditions, and double- and triplecast some roles so that more dancers can be involved,” Thomas says. “We’re very proud of the success of this Nutcracker and all the ensuing Central Iowa Nutcrackers. It has truly become part of the holiday tradition in Iowa.” As part of the 35th anniversary celebration, the Dancenter has commissioned a series of short videos showing changes in the ballet over the years. Check out their Facebook page to see more (including a link to the entire 1981 production). Thomas is also encouraging former dancers to share their memories, either in person at a gathering between the two Saturday performances or via short videos. “It will be kind of like a school reunion,” Thomas says. “We want to see what everyone is doing and where they
are now. Our students are truly our family, and we love staying in touch with them.” Another aspect of the production that is like a family: the people behind the scenes. Robert and Miyoko Thomas have been artistic directors of every production since 1981: one of the original Spanish dancers, Janice Baker, is now the Ballet Mistress; Jerri Baumeister has overseen costumes for many years; and technical directors Steve Harder and Jake Ewalt have worked on the production since the beginning. Steve Harder summed up the ballet’s tremendous appeal after the very first production. “Immediately after we were finished, he said, ‘What are you going to do next year?’ and I said ‘The Nutcracker!’ ” Thomas recalls. “He said, ‘I think you’re right. This thing’s got legs!’ ” Thirty-five wonderful years later, it looks like they were right.
Join Us for Tea with Clara & the Mouse King!
Sugar Plum Circle Package $135 for Two!
Dec. 12 at 4 pm • $7 per person
Dec. 12 at 7:30 pm ONLY
Saturday, December 12 at 1:30 & 7:30 pm Sunday, December 13 at 1:30 pm Stephens Ticket Auditorium Office (no service fees) Ticketmaster Outlets 1-800-745-3000 | www.ticketmaster.com Standing OVATION 2015–2016 SEASON
Dedicated Volunteers Iowa State University Performing Arts Council
A university committee comprised of Iowa State University faculty, staff and students, as well as Ames community members, the Performing Arts Council advises the Iowa State Center on programming for the Performing Arts Series at Stephens Auditorium. Tanya Anderson – Community Tyler Bainter – Music Student Janice Baker – Faculty Sara Compton – Iowa State Center Staff Patti Cotter – Iowa State Center Staff Jane Cox – Faculty Brian Davidson – Community Cinian Zheng-Durbin – Community Homer Gartz – Community Debra Gibson – Faculty Mike Golemo – Faculty Sarah Jablon – Graduate Assistant Sam Johnson – Music Student Nancy Marion – Community Patricia Miller – Faculty Matt Nelson – AIOFA Vahid Noroozi – Graduate Assistant Madeline Olsem – Music Student Alex Ortberg – Music Student Angela Ossian – Iowa State Center Staff Melissa Patrick – Community Bret Pugh – Community Sulagna Sarkar – Graduate and Professional Student Senate Phillip Sears – Music Student Hannah Skalbeck – Music Student Alissa Stoehr – Graduate Assistant Education
Ames International Orchestra Festival Association Board of Directors 2015-2016 Peter Reilly, President Karl Gwiasda, Vice President David Stephenson, Treasurer Dario Zaffarano, Secretary Jim Beckwith Jacob Harrison David Hoffman Aaron Fultz Noelle Fultz Dave Millard Matt Nelson Wendy Nutini Bion Pierson Kevin Schilling Suzy Shierholz James Tener
The Stephens Street Team
The Stephens Street Team unites the Iowa State Center and ISU by celebrating the importance of the arts in our lives. Its mission is to promote the arts to ISU students through unique marketing efforts and special events. The Stephens Street Team will plan events and lead marketing activities and develop creative ways to reach out to the student body at ISU about the incredible, affordable and accessible events at the Iowa State Center. Activities may include planning on-campus promotional events or philanthropic events that relate to shows, assisting with performance day events, sidewalk chalking, flyer distribution, presentations to campus organizations about our Performing Arts Series and more!
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ENJOY TIME WITH FRIENDS
MEET THE PERFORMERS
ENGAGE KIDS WITH THE ARTS
Become a Partner in the Performing Arts Did you know your ticket pays for only 77% of the cost of presenting the Performing Arts Series? Contributions are critical to the quality and breadth of our program, allowing us to be bold and innovative each year. Join the generous donors who make these magical performances possible.
Giving is Easy To give your vital support to the arts, choose one of these methods:
Online: Visit www.center.iastate.edu/makeagift Mail: Envelopes at the Guest Services Desk or send to ISU Foundation, 2505 University Blvd., Ames, IA 50010
Donor Benefits Can Include: • High priority seating & VIP parking
Phone: 515-294-3347 or 1-877-843-2368
• Complimentary refreshments in the Donor Lounge • A Donor Appreciation Event, Meet-the-Artist receptions and the Series Preview Party.
Your Gift Can be Made in Installments Visit www.foundation.iastate.edu and click on ‘How to Give’ to complete a Pledge, Electronic Fund Transfer or Faculty/Staff Payroll Deduction Form.
In Person: Ticket Office (open through intermission for all shows) Give today to begin experiencing the many benefits of being a Performing Arts Fund/AIOFA donor. Please join us today. Visit center.iastate.edu/support.
Ames International Orchestra Festival Association (AIOFA) You can designate your gift to support the orchestras at Stephens Auditorium.
Contact Patti Cotter, Development & Sponsorship Manager, at 515-294-1238 or via e-mail at pcotter@iastate.edu.
WHAT’S YOUR DREAM FOR THE ARTS?
Consider an endowment gift or a bequest to secure the future and to sustain world-class performances and arts education programs.
Contact Patti Cotter at 515-294-1238 or pcotter@iastate.edu Standing OVATION 2015–2016 SEASON
Standing OVATION 2015–2016 SEASON
Partners in the Arts Special thanks to the following supporters for their unwavering loyalty and crucial support. Their generosity enables us to bring the world’s finest performing artists to Iowa.
Major Sponsor
Major Show Sponsors Bullets over Broadway
Hospitality Sponsor
Beauty & the Beast
Donor Lounge and Reception Sponsor
Celtic Nights
Youth Matinee Show Sponsor The Very Hungry Caterpillar
Ames International Orchestra Festival Association (AIOFA) and Ames Commission on the Arts (COTA) proudly support the Iowa State Symphony (Youth Matinee Series Concert), Chamber Orchestra Kremlin and Polish Baltic Philharmonic Orchestra concerts.
The Fab Four This presentation is supported by the Arts Midwest Touring Fund, a program of Arts Midwest that is funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, with additional contributions from the Iowa Arts Council and General Mills Foundation.
Sponsor a Show
We’re always looking for businesses and individuals to help make great shows happen. Our sponsorship packages are priced to suit a variety of needs and budgets. Call 515-294-3347. Standing OVATION 2015–2016 SEASON
Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care 414 Lincoln Way Ames, Iowa 50010 292-CARE (2273)
Your loved one never leaves our care, in Ames Grandon-Funeral 2.indd 1
Shop for a Scandinavian Christmas!
9/25/13 10:49 AM
ROMSEY ART AND GIFTS
• Scandinavian items • Art studio with commissions available • Antiques • Unique home decor items 601 Broad Street, Story City, Iowa 50248 515-733-2196
www.romseyartandgifts.com Check website and Facebook page for regular store hours Standing OVATION 2015–2016 SEASON
Standing OVATION 2015–2016 SEASON
THEIS YOURMEMORI A L UNI O N FAVORITE SPOT ON CAMPUS The Memorial Union is the living room of your Iowa State home. When you’re meeting your friends for lunch, claiming your favorite couch to study for a few hours, or finding a place for your club to meet, you’re coming to the MU. And while you’re here, you can catch a show in the Maintenance Shop, take a break and play some pool at CyBowl & Billiards, and get your hands dirty in The Workspace. Then, when you realize you also come here to buy your Cyclone swag in the University Book Store and grab your morning cup of coffee on your way to class, it will dawn on you:
YOU’RE AT HOME IN THE MU. MU Food Court
MU Market and Café
Maintenance Shop
Meeting Rooms
University Book Store
CyBowl & Billiards
Hotel Memorial Union
The Workspace
mu.iastate.edu
Standing OVATION 2015–2016 SEASON