Hamlisch WITH LOVE
JANUARY
17—19
2 0 1 9- 2 0
TOPS OF THE POPS
S E A S O N
THE 2019-20
18-19 SEASON SEASON
ARETHA: RESPECT C FEBRUARY 14-16 Verizon Hall | The Kimmel Center
PHIL COLLINS POPS ROCKS
The Music of Genesis and Phil Collins
MARCH 6-8
Verizon Hall | The Kimmel Center
SUBSCRIBE NOW TO RESERVE THE BEST SEATS FOR NEXT SEASON
PHILLYPOPS.ORG OR CALL 215.893.1955 2 | Encore! | The Philly POPS
CONTENTS 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 12 13 14 16 18 19 20 22 23 24 26 30
Letter from the President Program About The POPS The Philly POPS Roster Music Director Todd Ellison Guest Vocalist Ashley Brown Memories of Marvin The Philly POPS Today Memorable Moments Partner Spotlight: Independence Blue Cross Behind the Scenes: Boyer College of Music and Dance POPS In Schools POPS in the News The Salute Series Subscriber Spotlight: Melville and Maria Ackerman Board of Directors & Administrative Staff Corporate & Community Support Friends of The Philly POPS Giving Levels
Artists and program subject to change without notice. Please silence all cell phones and electronic devices. No flash photography. Please take care not to inhibit the enjoyment of those around you.
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Hamlisch With Love | January 2020 | 3
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT Dear Friends, Where does the time go? December flew by — in what was, by all measures, our most successful Christmas to date. We kicked the holiday season off with Uptown Christmas at The Met Philadelphia, packed the stage of the Kimmel for another spectacular run of A Philly POPS Christmas, and celebrated the holidays in an exciting new way with The Philly POPS Jazz Orchestra of Philadelphia. Tonight’s show starts the new year off perfectly… with love. Our Music Director Todd Ellison has carefully assembled this program to pay tribute to his longtime mentor and friend: Marvin Hamlisch. Here to help us celebrate Marvin’s achievements and legacy is returning POPS fan favorite Ashley Brown. Another exciting note for tonight’s performances are the POPS debuts of four very talented Temple theater students: Isabel Robin, Alexa Joseph, Alana Robinson, and Jordan Hayes. I can tell you that tonight’s performance will surely be full of memorable moments and surprises. In the coming months, we will celebrate the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, and rock out to one of the greatest icons of the ‘80s, Phil Collins. Then, we’ll head back up Broad Street to The Met Philadelphia for Disney’s Broadway Hits — which will feature original Disney Broadway stars (including Ashley Brown!) performing the show tunes that made them famous. It’s another night at The Met you can’t miss. As is our tradition, we’ll be announcing our 2020–2021 season in a few short weeks, on February 14. Stay tuned for more on what will be another season of exciting firsts! With great appreciation for your continued support,
Frank Giordano, President and CEO Encore Series, Inc., The Philly POPS
4 | Encore! | The Philly POPS
Hamlisch WITH LOVE
PROGRAM JANUARY 17-19
“No More” The Goodbye Girl (1993) “California Nights/Sunshine, Lollipops, and Rainbows” Ski Party (1965)
Verizon Hall, Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts
“Through the Eyes of Love” Ice Castles (1978) Suite from The Mirror Has Two Faces (1996)
Todd Ellison music director
“Dreamers” Jean Seberg (1983)
FEATURING
“I Still Believe in Love” They’re Playing Our Song (1979) “Disneyland” Smile (1986) “Ragtime Medley” Scott Joplin, adapted for The Sting (1973) “Come Light the Candles” composed for the 50th Anniversary of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (1978)
Ashley Brown guest artist Temple University Student Vocalists: Jordan Hayes
INTERMISSION
Alexa Joseph
“They’re Playing Our Song (Entr’Acte)” They’re Playing Our Song (1979)
Isabel Robin Alana Robinson
“At The Ballet” A Chorus Line (1975) “The Swimmer” The Swimmer (1968) “Nobody Does It Better” The Spy Who Loved Me (1977) “The Informant” The Informant (2009) “While I Still Have the Time” The Nutty Professor (2012) “This Is More Than a Ballroom” Ballroom (1978) “The Way We Weren’t/The Way We Were” The Way We Were (1973) A Chorus Line Medley A Chorus Line (1975) “That’s How I Say Goodbye” Sweet Smell of Success (2002) Hamlisch With Love | January 2020 | 5
THE PHILLY POPS The Philly POPS, the largest standalone pops orchestra in the United States, delights audiences with the inspired performance of American popular music. The POPS celebrates this distinctive musical heritage through an expanding repertoire of innovative concert performances and a robust set of educational and engagement initiatives. As the official POPS orchestra of Pennsylvania and the City of Philadelphia’s partner in civic celebration, The Philly POPS serves a consistently growing audience of over 200,000 annually. Music Director Todd Ellison and the 65-piece Philly POPS orchestra keep listeners tapping their toes to an impressive repertoire of songs from American traditional music up through to today’s chart-toppers. In addition to Subscription Series performances at The Kimmel Center, The Philly POPS presents innovative programming with contemporary artists at The Met Philadelphia in The Philly POPS at The Met Philadelphia series. Other ensembles that make up The Philly POPS are: The Philly POPS BIG Band, which plays a rock and rhythm and blues repertoire, and The Philly POPS Jazz Orchestra of Philadelphia, under the direction of Artistic Director for Jazz, Terell Stafford. Outside the concert hall, free Salute Series performances — including Memorial Salute, July 3 POPS on Independence, July 4 POPS on the Parkway and the I’ll Be Home for Christmas: A Salute to the Military and First Responders concert — celebrate the American tradition of service around important national holidays. POPS in Schools enhances music education for 3,000 Philadelphia School District students; and POPS Outside brings POPS music to local communities. The Philly POPS performs as a founding resident company of The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, as the Principal Orchestra of The Met Philadelphia, and at venues throughout the mid-Atlantic region. 6 | Encore! | The Philly POPS
THE PHILLY POPS ROSTER 1ST VIOLIN
FLUTE
DRUM SET
Michael Ludwig Rachael Ludwig Charlene Kwas Emma Kummrow Robert Vieira Paul Reiser Laura Chen Joseph Kauffman Alexandra Cutler-Fetkewicz Natalie Rudoi
Edward Schultz Ron Kerber Frances Tate
Joe Nero
2ND VIOLIN Michelle Bishop Yu Hui Tamae Lee Kate Suk Greg Teperman Sarah Dubois Diane Barnett Andrea Levine Laura Earley
VIOLA Davis Barnett Marjorie Goldberg Scott Wagner Sarah Sutton Gerry Rice Nina Cottman
CELLO
OBOE
Pat Mercuri
David Schneider Geoffrey Deemer
ELECTRIC BASS
CLARINET
HARP
Joseph Smith Kaj Hansen Mark Allen
BASSOON
Steve Beskrone
Rong Tan
KEYBOARD Jeff Smith
Norman Spielberg Colleen Hood
HORN Ian Zook Adam Lesnick George Barnett Lyndsie Wilson
TRUMPET Matt Gallagher Bob Gravener George Rabbai
TROMBONE
Ulrich Boeckheler Jon Fink George Atanasiu Brooke Beazley Glenn Fischbach Pat Daniels
Paul Arbogast Brian Pastor David Cianci
BASS
TYMPANI & PERCUSSION
Miles Davis Anne Peterson Stephen Groat
GUITAR
TUBA Brian Brown
William Kerrigan David Nelson Ralph Sorrentino
Hamlisch With Love | January 2020 | 7
music director
TODD ELLISON Hailed by The New York Times as one of “Broadway’s Electric Conductors,” Todd Ellison is one of the most accomplished and soughtafter music directors working today. Raised in Essex, Connecticut, Ellison began playing piano at age six and later graduated from Boston University School of Music with a degree in piano performance. His career has spanned many roles, ranging from award-winning Broadway shows to several seasons as the music director for the “Radio City Christmas Spectacular.” Currently, he is the Music Director of The Philly Pops, the Music Supervisor and Arranger of the new Broadway-bound musical, Roman Holiday, Music Supervisor of the Tokyo production of An American in Paris, and the composer of the award-winning musical, The Black and White Ball. Ellison’s Broadway credits include: An American in Paris, Annie, La Cage aux Folles, Elton John’s Lestat, Spamalot, 42nd Street, Amour, The Wild Party, On the Town, Once Upon a Mattress (starring Sarah Jessica Parker), How to Succeed (starring Matthew Broderick), She Loves Me, and A Class Act. As Marvin Hamlisch’s Music Director, Ellison worked on Ballroom and The Nutty Professor. Ellison has conducted all over the world, including the Vienna Konzerthaus with Dawn Upshaw and Jerry Hadley, with The Dublin Film Orchestra, Radio City Christmas Spectacular (Mexico City), Lincoln Center’s World Science Festival, Kennedy Center, The Hollywood Bowl, London’s West End, The Public Theater, Cole Porters’ Jubilee at Carnegie Hall, and with the symphonies of Pittsburgh, San Diego, Nashville, Long Beach, New Haven, and New Jersey. He has conducted on over 25 albums, including on the award-winning cast albums of his shows. A recognized “Steinway Artist,” Ellison has accompanied stars like Beyoncé, Meryl Streep, Mike Nichols, Nicole Kidman, Barry Manilow, Bea Arthur, Jane Lynch, Tracey Ullman and Kelsey Grammer. Todd led The Philly POPS for its first Memorial Day concert at Longwood Gardens in 2015. He has since conducted 2017’s Best of Broadway, 2018’s Memorial Salute concerts, and 2018’s A Philly POPS Christmas. Todd officially became the POPS’ Music Director in July 2019.
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guest artist
ASHLEY BROWN Ashley Brown originated the title role in Mary Poppins on Broadway for which she received Outer Critics, Drama League, and Drama Desk nominations for Best Actress. Ashley also starred as Mary Poppins in the national tour which earned her a 2010 Garland award for “Best Performance in a Musical.” Her other Broadway credits include Belle in Beauty and The Beast, and she has starred in the national tour of Disney’s On The Record. Ashley recently returned to the Lyric Opera of Chicago to star in the role of Laurey in Oklahoma. She previously played Magnolia opposite Nathan Gunn in Francesca Zembello’s Showboat at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Ashley has performed with virtually all of the top orchestras in North America. She has also performed with the BBC orchestra opposite Josh Groban. Ashley made her solo concert debut at the Kennedy Center as part of Barbara Cook’s Spotlight Series, and has appeared in New York City at prestigious venues including Feinstein’s at the Regency and Birdland. Other projects include a star turn at the La Jolla Playhouse in a production of Limelight, Sound of Music at the St. Louis MUNY which garnered her a Kevin Kline award, and her own PBS special called Ashley Brown: Call Me Irresponsible which received a PBS Telly Award.
Hamlisch With Love | January 2020 | 9
An Interview with Todd Ellison
MEMORIES OF MARVIN Todd Ellison, Music Director of The Philly POPS, served as Marvin Hamlisch’s Music Director and considers the legendary composer a mentor and inspiration. How did you meet Marvin Hamlisch? The first time we met was in 2002 when I was working on the show A Class Act about A Chorus Line’s lyricist Ed Kleban. Marvin was going to write the opening number. I went to his home and he was like the Tasmanian Devil! He seemed to be in a constant rush and his mind worked faster than anybody else’s. He almost came off as brusque and I thought, as I left with song in hand, “Well, I met Marvin once and that’s great.” But, you did meet again. How did you reconnect? In 2009, Marvin was doing a version of The Nutty Professor with the brilliant lyricist Rupert Holmes (known for “The Piña Colada Song”) along with then-84-year-old Jerry Lewis directing. Marvin needed someone like me to help pull it all together. How did things go this time? Marvin and Rupert wrote a really good score with clever songs, witty lyrics, and catchy melodies. Within my first hour there, he was teaching the company a song and told me to take over teaching the parts, but there was no piano part, just a melody with chords which I’d only heard him play for a few minutes! But, I found my way through it and it turns out, he was in the back, watching, the whole time. It was a big test!
Todd Ellison, Marvin Hamlisch, Rupert Holmes, and Jerry Lewis at auditions for The Nutty Professor.
He excitedly announced to everybody: “This guy is ME, 40 years ago. I’m so glad you’re here!” Then, he wanted me on all of his projects. What came next? A musical version of the movie Queen of the Stardust Ballroom. Ultimately, the writers had it shelved, so we took The Nutty Professor to Nashville in 2012 for pre-Broadway tryout. That summer, Marvin passed away.
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What are some of your favorite memories of Marvin? We had a lot of good times. We’d go to lunch and he’d tell fascinating stories. He was the youngest student ever admitted to Juilliard at age six. His best friend in high school was Liza Minnelli, which helped propel him into the showbiz world. The first night he spent away from home was in a guest room at Judy Garland’s house. He had an unbelievable life. His memorial service at Juilliard was like the greatest ‘70s variety show you’d ever seen. Everyone he’d ever worked with was there… Barbra Streisand, Yo-Yo Ma, Itzhak Perlman, Aretha Franklin, Chris Botti, Liza, Lang Lang. He worked across generations. It was the end of an era. What are some highlights of the music in today’s show? This is special: we have two songs that have never been heard by this large of an audience – one from The Nutty Professor and one from Ballroom. We’re lucky to have four Temple University students singing “At the Ballet” from A Chorus Line and a medley of early Lesley Gore pop hits. Marvin loved new talent. We have a movie sequence, including music from Sophie’s Choice, his last movie The Informant!, and The Way We Were (with a twist). Marvin brought ragtime craze back into fashion, so I’ve also put together an arrangement of Scott Joplin rags and I’ll be playing the piano with orchestra. This is a show of my favorite pieces of music that he wrote, not just the big hits, but those which show off his range and his talent. What’s your favorite song of Marvin’s? “What I Did for Love” from A Chorus Line because it sums up his life. Everything he did was for music.
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SPOTLIGHT The Philly POPS Today Thanks to its passionate supporters, The Philly POPS is generating significant growth in ticket sales and attendance, with particular growth in the POPS subscription base. These advances are the driving force behind innovative programming for new audiences, meaningful work that benefits local communities, and a new slate of in-school education programs. The Philly POPS is breaking out of the concert hall and bringing music to the streets of Philadelphia and its surrounding towns. Look for POPS artists performing in pop-up beer gardens, city parks, leisure venues, public schools, and alongside some of the greatest vocalists of our time.
Salute Series The Philly POPS Salute Series encourages recognition of service and commitment through an expanding set of events and activities — each transformative moments of celebration for our community. Salute performances recognize the service and sacrifice of those dedicated to a collective identity of American values and tradition.
POPS in Schools Launched in 2015, POPS in Schools is an EITC-certified program that supplements music education for 3,000 students in the School District of Philadelphia by embedding POPS Musicians and Teaching Artists in schools to cultivate the music leaders of tomorrow with mentorship from the music leaders of today.
POPS Outside Outside the concert hall, POPS Outside brings the talented and experienced musicians of The Philly POPS to unexpected places, including monthly community engagement experiences, free pre-concert activities and in-school events.
POPS Presents POPS Presents events expand The Philly POPS reach into a variety of genres and with guest artists of ever-greater reputation and talent, including Andrea Bocelli and Deana Martin. The Philly POPS has proudly been a Philadelphia icon for the last four decades and happily anticipates reaching tens of thousands of new listeners through these expanding programs.
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MEMORABLE MOMENTS July 2019
December 2014
Music Director Todd Ellison takes over the “baton” of The Philly POPS.
The Philly POPS salutes military and first responders by giving away 2,000 free tickets to the inaugural I’ll be Home for Christmas: A Salute to the Military July 2018 The Philly POPS celebrates its 40th and First Responders concert. Anniversary Season and is honored at the Wawa Welcome America July 2013 festival. Michael Krajewski becomes Music Director of The Philly POPS.
September 2017 The Philly POPS announces the appointment of Principal Guest Conductor David Charles Abell.
July 2012 Frank Giordano takes the reins as President and CEO of The Philly POPS.
July 2017
The Philly POPS BIG Band debuts on July 4 at the July 2005 25th anniversary of the Wawa Welcome America The Philly POPS performs with Elton John concert on the Parkway. on Independence Day at the Philadelphia Freedom Concert on the Parkway, organized by Mark Segal.
May 2016
The Philly POPS holds Philadelphia’s first-ever April 2002 Memorial Day concert: Memorial Salute. Peter Nero and The Philly POPS performs Voyage into Space with astronaut John Glenn at the Kimmel December 2015 Center. The Philly POPS performs its first concert with renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli at the Wells Fargo Center.
September 2015
December 2001 The Kimmel Center opens with The Philly POPS as a founding resident company.
1999
The Philly POPS performs for Pope Francis on The Philly POPS is designated as the official Pops Independence Mall. Orchestra of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
June 2015
1993
Launch of POPS in Schools kicks off with a presenting sponsorship of the Philadelphia School District’s All-City Jazz Festival.
December 2014 Launch of POPS Outside brings the vibrant programming, musicians and featured guest artists of the POPS family to a growing list of holiday tree lightings and celebrations around the Delaware Valley.
Peter Nero and The Philly POPS performs at Philadelphia’s first July 4 concert.
1979 The Philly POPS is founded by Moe Septee with virtuoso pianist and conductor Maestro Peter Nero as Music Director.
Hamlisch With Love | January 2020 | 13
partner spotlight
INDEPENDENCE BLUE CROSS At Independence Blue Cross, the health and well-being of our community is at the heart of everything we do. We are united by this purpose. It is the driving force behind our mission as a company, and it guides our business decisions. Every day, we work to get health care right for people in the communities we proudly serve. For nearly 20 years, our volunteer program, the Blue Crew, has been a cornerstone of our commitment to the community. Each year, the Blue Crew supports a wide-range of community service projects in partnership with over 100 nonprofit organizations throughout the region. In 2019, more than 1,800 Blue Crew volunteers donated over 15,000 hours in support of 350 community service projects.
“From wellness initiatives to community service to its role as our region’s premier health insurer, Independence Blue Cross is such an important part of Philadelphia. Independence’s support of the POPS helps us bring our singular sensations to the concert hall and community. Thank you Independence and Lorina Marshall-Blake for your support!” — FRANK GIORDANO, President & CEO, The Philly POPS LORINA MARSHALL-BLAKE As the Vice President of Community Affairs at Independence, Lorina Marshall-Blake is a steadfast champion of volunteerism. Under Lorina’s leadership, participation in the Blue Crew continues to increase as associates are inspired by her example to give back to the communities we serve. In addition to her work leading the Blue Crew, Lorina serves the community in a variety of ways, most notably through her volunteer work on 25 nonprofit boards and committees of local, state and national organizations.
“Few things say Philadelphia like The Philly POPS! Their music is synonymous with joy. You can count on every show to be unique and memorable, with the best guest artists in the country. The delight they bring to audiences is rivaled only by the magic they bring to our community through initiatives like POPS Outside. I am inspired by the way they use music to connect with kids and adults of all ages – both in the concert hall and through their many free performances in the city.” — LORINA MARSHALL-BLAKE Vice President of Community Affairs, Independence Blue Cross Hamlisch With Love | January 2020 | 15
behind the scenes BOYER COLLEGE OF MUSIC AND DANCE In today’s Hamlisch: With Love show, four students from Temple University’s Boyer College of Music and Dance will perform.
JORDAN HAYES of Newtown, is a Junior majoring in Musical Theater. She was a choreography intern and dancer in the Kimmel Center’s Hairspray Live Viewing Party in 2016. She was the lead Frug dancer in Temple University’s 2019 production of Sweet Charity.
ALEXA JOSEPH of Hauppauge, New York, is a Junior majoring in Musical Theater. She has performed in numerous theaters around New York and Philadelphia, including The York Theater and 54 Below. She recently finished a production of Men on Boats at Temple University.
ALANA ROBINSON of Washington D.C., is a Senior majoring in Musical Theater. She played Helene in Temple University’s production of Sweet Charity and studied abroad in London during the 2019 spring semester and in Los Angeles in summer 2019.
ISABEL ROBIN of Queens, New York, is a Junior majoring in Musical Theater. She was a finalist for Michael Feinstein’s The Songbook Academy and played Imogen in Cymbeline at Temple Theaters.
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DR. ROBERT T. STROKER Dr. Robert T. Stroker is Dean of the Boyer College of Music and Dance and the School of Theater, Film and Media Arts and is Vice Provost for the Arts at Temple University. He is also Founder and Executive Producer of BCM&D Records at the Boyer College, which has garnered five GRAMMY nominations.
"Temple University’s Boyer College of Music and Dance is proud of our ongoing connections to The Philly POPS and our shared commitment to music education! Through our partnership at the Isaac Sheppard School, Temple students are mentored by alumna and adjunct professor Diane Dannenfelser to provide musical experiences for elementary students while gaining invaluable real-world teaching experiences. We are thrilled that our Director of Jazz Studies and Chair of Instrumental Studies, Terell Stafford, is now Artistic Director of Jazz for The Philly POPS and we celebrate his continued dedication to the All-City Jazz Orchestra, the Jazz Orchestra of Philadelphia and to expanding jazz education initiatives." - DR. ROBERT T. STROKER
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POPS IN SCHOOLS Launched in 2015, POPS in Schools is an EITC-certified program that supplements music education for students in the School District of Philadelphia by embedding POPS Musicians and Teaching Artists in schools to cultivate the music leaders of tomorrow with mentorship from the music leaders of today. POPS in Schools provides programming for high school students through the All-City Jazz Festival held each April during Jazz Appreciation Month and with weekly in-school activities at four elementary schools and one high school.
This past school year, your generous support allowed: • 3,000 students to receive impactful music programming • 30 POPS musicians to train, coach, and mentor music students • 10 schools to participate in the All-City Jazz Festival • 400 students to perform in the Kimmel Center prior to a POPS concert • 1,500 free tickets to schools to concerts
For more information on how you can support the future music leaders of Philadelphia, please contact 215.735.2841 | phillypops.org/popsinschools 18 | Encore! | The Philly POPS
POPS IN THE NEWS “Philly Pops Christmas show stuffs a whole lot of joy into its Santa sack” The Philadelphia Inquirer — December 10, 2019
“Tituss Burgess Pops into Philly for the holidays” The Philadelphia Tribune — November 17, 2019
“POPS in Schools is raising the next generation of musicians at The Isaac Sheppard School in Kensington” NBC10 — November 25, 2019
“Latin pop star and Philly native Luis Figueroa returns to perform with The Philly POPS for A Philly POPS Uptown Christmas” Telemundo — November 25, 2019
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Presented by Comcast NBCUniversal The Philly POPS Salute Series encourages recognition of service and commitment through an expanding set of events and activities — each transformative moments of celebration for our community. Salute performances recognize the service and sacrifice of those dedicated to a collective identity of American values and tradition.
CELEBRATING AMERICA’S TRADITIONS AND COMMITMENT TO SERVICE. For more information on attending or supporting our Salute Series performances: phillypops.org/salute.
SALUTE SERIES 2020 EVENTS MEMORIAL SALUTE May 25, 2020 Mann Center for the Performing Arts
POPS ON INDEPENDENCE July 3, 2020 Independence Hall
IN CELEBRATION OF INDEPENDENCE DAY July 4, 2020 • POPS at the Celebration of Freedom Ceremony, Independence Mall • POPS on the Parkway
VETERANS SALUTE November 11, 2020 Vietnam Veterans Memorial
I’LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS: A SALUTE TO THE MILITARY & FIRST RESPONDERS December 4, 2020
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PRESENTED BY
MAJOR SPONSOR
SPONSORS
JOHN* AND PINA* TEMPLETON
SUSAN & CHASE MCDANIEL
subscriber spotlight
MELVILLE AND MARIA ACKERMAN Dr. Melville and Maria Ackerman are celebrating their 25th season as POPS subscribers! Mel, who grew up in Toms River, is a gastroenterologist with a private practice at Virtua and Maria, who grew up in South Philly and Cherry Hill, is an art therapist. They’ve been married for 32 years and live in Medford, New Jersey. The couple started bringing their three children – Nathan, Adam, and Christina – to the POPS when they were just toddlers. They wanted to make sure their children knew the thrill of seeing a live orchestra perform timeless music. “The boys would listen with their chins resting on the velvet railing of the Academy of Music and the magic continued for Christina at the Kimmel Center,” Maria remembers. “It was a magical time for them and created lasting memories.” Today, all three keep music as a part of their lives. Giving back to the community has always been important to the Ackermans. They’ve been involved with a wide range of causes and organizations. For Mel, that includes Independence Blue Cross, CAMcare’s clinic in Camden, and Cooper University Hospital. For years, Maria has volunteered her time to create musical theater programs for children, coordinates services and supplies at Colin’s Wish Foundation for Drug Addiction Treatment, VOA Homeless Shelter of Camden, and the Women’s Shelter of Burlington County, and is also active in several animal rescue organizations. In their free time, the Ackermans enjoy ballroom dancing, love to attend theater shows, concerts and events, and spend as much time at the Jersey Shore as their schedules allow. Favorite Shows: The Ackermans say they love all the shows, but especially the ones in which the orchestra plays with singers, dancers, and choirs. “It makes for such a rich and exciting program,” Maria says.
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF ENCORE SERIES, INC. Frank Giordano, President & Chief Executive Officer Todd Ellison, Music Director David Charles Abell, Principal Guest Conductor Terell Stafford, Artistic Director for Jazz
BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2019-20 Joseph Del Raso, Chairman
Karen Corbin, Chief Operating Officer
Tony Mahon, Secretary
Patricia Wells, Office Manager & Executive Assistant to the President
James M. Matour, Treasurer
Daniel Palmieri, Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Customer Relations
Wilbert D. Abele
Keith Obaza, Production Director Joshua Thomas, Director of Development Gilberto Vega, Education & Community Engagement Director
Timothy Alles Joan Carter Pamela Cyr Daniel DiLella
Cheryl Lutts, Controller
Carol A. Eggert
Sarah Maiellano, Assistant Director of Communications
Frank Giordano
Jessica Blank, Associate Director of Marketing
Lisa Hale
Austin Berner, Manager of Communications
Adriana Herrera
Kelly McMurtry, Contributed Revenue Associate & Events Manager
Dr. Ali A. Houshmand
Kate Huffman, External Affairs Manager Jessica Cook, Staff Accountant Will Farr, Graphic Designer Brendan McHale, Program & Production Associate Daniel McCain, Student Co-Op Lonell Johnson, Student Co-Op
Dermid Kelly Marc A. Lucca, P.E. Harry D. Madonna Barry Magarick John J. Meko, Jr. Steven K. Mignogna Denise Viola Monahan
Jeffrey Kern, Chorus Master
Gregory Montanaro
Vincent Leonard, Music Librarian
Ryan Peters
Anne Peterson, Orchestra Contractor
Philip Rinaldi
Jeffrey Smith, Assistant Conductor
Jon C. Sirlin
Debbie Lobel, Stage Manager
Ashley E. Widger
Marketing Mark Gisi, Partner, Brand Strategist, Eastern Standard
Salvatore M. DeBunda, Esq., Chairman Emeritus
General Counsel David H. Marion, Esq.
Samuel Savitz, Chairman Emeritus
POPS Physician Dr. Gary W. Dorshimer, MD, FACP, FCPP POPS Photographer Peter Blaikie, Bachrach Photography
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CORPORATE & COMMUNITY SUPPORT The Philly POPS is extremely grateful for the generous support received from the following corporations, foundations, and government agencies. Their support is vital to the POPS’ commitment to music excellence. The Philly POPS is an approved Educational Improvement Organization (EIO) by the PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) certified to receive donations through Education Improvement Tax Credit (EITC).
41ST SUBSRCIPTION SERIES SPONSOR
CIVIC, FOUNDATION, AND GOVERNMENT PARTNERS THE ABELE FAMILY FOUNDATION
SALUTE SERIES PRESENTING SPONSOR
PSALM 103 FOUNDATION
CHRISTMAS PRESENTING SPONSOR
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MEDIA PARTNER
MULTIMEDIA PARTNER
MARKETING SUPPORT
CORPORATE PARTNERS
E S T. 1 9 4 9
UM HOLDINGS
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FRIENDS OF THE POPS The Philly POPS greatly appreciates the many patrons who have made contributions as Friends of the POPS. Thank you! Your support helps make our concerts possible and creates a sustainable future. AMERICAN SONGBOOK SOCIETY $100,000 and Above Comcast NBC Universal Carol A. Eggert Senior Vice President, Military & Veteran Affairs Department of Community and Economic Development PARX Casino
ORCHESTRA SOCIETY $50,000 - $99,999 Abele Family Foundation Joan and Wilbert D. Abele Tim and Pam Alles The City of Philadelphia
Independence Blue Cross
Macy’s
KeyBank Robert D. Kane, Jr. Market President
Mariner Investment Group Andrew Hohns
M&T Bank
National HR Mr. Jon Nistad
Susan and Chase McDaniel
PECO
Pennsylvania Council on the Arts
Pepper Hamilton, LLP Anne and Joe Del Raso
Psalm 103 Foundation
Philadelphia Energy Solutions Phil Rinaldi Founder, Chairman & CEO (Ret’d)
Drs. John* and Pina* Templeton
PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE $10,000 - $24,999 Aqua America Marc Lucca President
Republic Bank Mr. Harry H. Madonna Chairman & CEO Rowan University Dr. Ali Houshmand President
Citizens Bank Dan Fitzpatrick
AssuredPartners Insurance Tony Mahon Managing Director
Dottie and Frank Giordano
Lou & Kim D’Ambrosio
Manning and Ginny Smith
Harry Dillon Madonna
Drexel University John A. Fry President
Structure Tone, LLC Dermid Kelly Regional Vice President
Foundation for Individual Liberty John Aglialoro and Joan Carter
TD Charitable Foundation
Lisa Hale and James E. Haas, III
Visit Philadelphia Jeff Guaricino Presdent & CEO
MAESTRO CIRCLE $25,000 - $49,999 Anonymous Archer Law Salvatore M. DeBunda Esq. Bank of America Jim Dever Market President Delaware Valley Regional Economic Development Fund
Tom Ellis, Chairman John Coffman, Executive Director
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Haute Restaurant & Lounge Holman Enterprises Ryan Peters Kaufman Financial Services Mr. Larry A. Kaufman
Karen and Jon Sirlin
Vanguard Adriana Herrera
Widger Family Foundation Charles and Ashley Widger WSFS Community Foundation Pam Cyr
ENCORE CIRCLE $5,000 - $9,999 Atlantic Trailer Leasing Mike Devine Gabriel A. Battista Mr. and Mrs. Bob Cavalier CBIZ Insurance Services, Inc. Clark Capital Management Group Harry and Kina Clark The Foundation of Morris Hall St. Lawrence, Inc Jane Millner
Bill and Jeanne Whitmore
David and Jennifer Cardy
William Penn Foundation Special Gifts Program
Ms. Courtney Carter
MUSICIAN CIRCLE $2,500 - $4,999
Carter Family Fund Advisors Gen. Ronald Coleman
ASL Transportation Group Mr. James R. Donnelly President and CEO Nancy and James Baxter
Charles and Susan Davidson Ms. Loretta Delvecchio Barry Depew
Francis and Mary Burke David and Jennifer Cardy
Dennis Fitzgerald
Chemistry RX Amany Mansour-Awad
Ron Giordano in honor of Margaret A. Giordano
Jerry Francesco
Ken and Marian Disken
Ms. Elaine Grobman
The Haverford Trust Company
Mr. Gerald Francesco
Tom and Nancy Londres
Mr. and Mrs. William A. Graham IV
Jacob’s Music Chris Rinaldi
John and Janet Marsella
Lucas and Cavalier, LLC
Elizabeth and Terrence McCabe
Mr. and Mrs. David H. Marion, Esq.
Gregory Montanaro
Mr. James M. Matour, Esq.
PA Convention Center Authority
Edythe and Robert Mazer
Pennsylvania Thoroughbred Horseman’s Association Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau The Philadelphia Cultural Fund Philadelphia Phillies
Mr. and Mrs. Gerhart L. Klein Cpt. and Mrs. Jack P. Lieberman, US Navy (Retired)
Thomas Nowakowski Sr. Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation The Reverend Lucy Pierre Holly and Stephen Weil
Gerald and Jeannine McMenamin Cathy Medway Mr. and Mrs. Peter Michaelson Laurie and Christopher Olivia, MD Penn Personalized Care Gary W. Dorshimer, MD, FACP, FCPP Official Physician of the POPS
Ms. Jane Windle
Pepe and Peggy Piperno
BATON CIRCLE $1,000 - $2,499
Louis Scaglione
Aetna
Mr. and Mrs. Walter Strine Esq.
Dr. Sucha and Mr. Michael Asbell
The Haverford Trust Company
The Harold and Renee Berger Foundation
Mr. Theodore Robb
Richard and Elaine Valiga
Joseph and Eileen Bilson
Ms. Joyce Seewald Sando
Wells Fargo
Mrs. Elaine Brumberg
Mitchell Sargen
Police and Fire Federal Credit Union Cynthia and Gary Porter Mr. Robert Rau
Hamlisch With Love | January 2020 | 27
Savitz Family Foundation In Memory of Walter D. Cohen
Pat and Connie Dalton
Elliot and Barbara Schwartz
Samuel and Gail Goldstein
Monique and Gary Silvi
Sandra Goodstein
David and Peggy Stedman
Cheryl D. Gunter and Paul A. Rabe
Mr. and Mrs. Howard Stone Tot-Time Child Development Centers, Inc. Ms. Donna M. Parisi Owner Deborah and Andrew Webster Elizabeth Weinreb Martin and Janice Wilensky
CONDUCTOR CIRCLE $750 - $999 Dr. and Mrs. John A. Harman Brian and Lenore Locke Richard Orr Michelle and Mark Pressman Dale Wallace Wealth Development Group Alan D. Katz Managing Member Alexander and Joanna Williams
PRINCIPAL PLAYER $500 - $749
Ruth Ann and Paul Fox
Robert and Megan Hausler Gwen and Matthew Iller Ted Kapnek Stephen and Randy Klein Pat Lannutti Drs. Lawrence and Lynn Levine Mrs. Patricia Levitt Andrew Logue John and Joan Lyons
Ms. Anne M. Congdon Francis Costello In Memory of Rhonda Costello John & Karen Fulton Drs. Domenic and Dorothy Pisano Dr. and Mrs. Clifford Sporn
ENTHUSIAST $250 - $374 Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bortz Kimberly and Donald Brooks David and Jane Courtright Scott Dressler
Greg and Beth McGowan
Karen Fei in memory of Donna Fei
Hermann Moser
Rick and Julie Frost
L. Stephan and Rochelle Perchick
Linda Gloss
Dr. Ralph Riviello M.D. David Schneider and Rosalind Erwin In Honor of William Nathan Erwin
Nancy and Alan Grossman Gwen and Matthew Iller Rona Josephs Ronald and Louise Kaiser
Henry and Mary Schwarz
Jerry Kates and Tema Freed
Dr. Julia Spears
Joseph Kolakowski
Steven Standiford
Joseph W. Kvech
John and Sandra Stouffer
Phyllis and Robert Lambeck
Melville and Maria Ackerman
Ms. Joyce Ann Swoyer
Phillip and Ellen Baer
Ronald Vickers
Ms. Roslyn Barefield
Mr. Joseph Voytilla
Sandy and Vince Basanavage
Richard Weisbrot and Barbara Shaiman
Gary Beaver
F. Gordon Yasinow
28 | Encore! | The Philly POPS
PERFORMER $375 - $499
Carole Marani Debbie and Elliott Maser Barbara J. Mitnick, Ph.D. Dr. Michael Mittleman Reid and Elizabeth Murray
Wallace and Lydia Nowicke Barbara Oconnell Judith Olshin Patricia and Michael Pence Scott and Marilyn Radley Eugene and Betsy Rockower David and Susan Roulston Mr. and Mrs. Charles R. Sceia William and Anna Simpson Timon Family Fund of the Delaware Community Foundation in memory of Lou Habina Mr. and Mrs. Steven Tuso Herbert and Sandra Weinstein *in memoriam Current Membership as of January 6, 2020. If you found your name has been misspelled or omitted, please accept our sincerest apologies and contact Joshua Thomas at 215-546-3207 or via email at jthomas@phillypops.org. We thank you for your generous support!
Hamlisch With Love | January 2020 | 29
GIVING LEVELS Join the friends of The Philly POPS today! If you love The NEW Philly POPS and want to become a Friend, please donate online at phillypops.org/donate to join others who share a passion for the Great American Songbook. Your tax-deductible gift makes a significant difference in the lives of thousands of fellow patrons by allowing our beloved stand-alone orchestra to continue playing the music you know and love to hear.
FRIEND — $75 TO $124 • 10% discount on single tickets
BATON CIRCLE — $1,000 TO $2,499
ADMIRER — $125 TO $249
• Exclusive VIP Invitations to POPS special
Friend benefits, plus:
Conductor Circle benefits, plus:
• Free ticket exchange of your subscription tickets
events and performances
• Priority seating change request
for your subscription
MUSICIAN CIRCLE — $2,500 TO $4,999 Baton Circle benefits, plus:
ENTHUSIAST — $250 TO $374
• Invitations to a special reception with Maestro
Admirer benefits, plus:
• Acknowledgment of your contribution
• A private tour of the Kimmel Center
in the Encore! program book
PERFORMER — $375 TO $499 Enthusiast benefits, plus:
• Complimentary tickets to a special
backstage tour
PRINCIPAL PLAYER — $500 TO $749
Ellison and POPS leadership
ENCORE! CIRCLE — $5,000 TO $9,999 Musician Circle benefits, plus:
• A private dinner with Frank Giordano,
President and CEO of The Philly POPS
• 1/2 page ad in the Encore! program book
Performer benefits, plus:
PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE — $10K AND ABOVE
• Exclusive intermission receptions with
Encore! Circle benefits, plus:
musicians and Board of Directors
CONDUCTOR CIRCLE — $750 TO $999
• Concert Series Sponsorship • Full page ad in the Encore! program book
Principal Player benefits, plus:
• A private backstage visit with
Maestro Ellison and guest artists
All membership benefits are designed for two people. You may also waive all benefits, making the full amount of your contribution tax-deductible. For additional information on individual giving, please call our Development Director, Joshua Thomas at 215.546.3207. To donate online, go to phillypops.org/donate. Benefits incept upon receipt of the contribution and are active for one year.
30 | Encore! | The Philly POPS
GROUPS HAVE MORE FUN! THE PHILLY POPS WOULD LIKE TO WELCOME:
Ann's Choice Retirement Community Donna M. Patti and guests Fantastic Fifties Geoffrey Paul and guests Harrison Township 55+ Kenneth and Barbara Beckleman and guests Selma Fisher and guests Senior Community Tours The Weston Club at Sagemore
Hamlisch With Love | January 2020 | 31
SHOWSTOPPING LOVE
READY TO CELEBRATE A LEGACY OF MUSIC Enjoy the Philly POPS’ presentation of “Hamlisch: With Love,” Music Director Todd Ellison’s heartwarming homage to his mentor and longtime friend, Marvin Hamlisch.
Member FDIC. Citizens Bank is a brand name of Citizens Bank, N.A. 1177680
Archer
Proudly Supports
The Philly Pops Archer & Greiner is a full-service law firm providing solutions for the personal and business legal needs of our clients throughout Philadelphia and the region for over 90 years.
Three Logan Square, 1717 Arch St., Suite 3500 215.963.3300 • WWW.ARCHERLAW.COM PHILADELPHIA, PA HARRISBURG, PA RED BANK, NJ PRINCETON, NJ HACKENSACK, NJ HADDONFIELD, NJ WILMINGTON, DE NEW YORK, NY
COLLABORATION. FOCUS. EFFICIENCY. DEDICATION. EXPERIENCE. With more than 425 lawyers, we serve as trusted advisors to leading businesses, governmental entities, nonprofit organizations and individuals. When facing a complicated issue, you need a law firm that understands both you and your business – a firm dedicated to client service and achieving your goals. Experience the Pepper Difference.
We are proud to support The Philly Pops. Berwyn Boston Detroit Harrisburg Los Angeles New York Orange County Philadelphia Pittsburgh Princeton Rochester Silicon Valley Washington Wilmington
pepper.law
Grow your business and grow your community. DVREDF is a proud supporter of the Philly POPS. Tom Ellis, Chairman John Coffman, Executive Director
www.dvredf.org
COMPLIMENTARY LUNCH & GUIDED TOUR
LIFE, on a Scale of You.
A Life Plan Community 215-283-7010 | foulkeways.org 1120 Meetinghouse Rd, Gwynedd, PA 19436
Teuscher proudly supports The Philly POPS!
The Shops At The Bellevue 200 South Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19102 +1.215.546.7600
DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR
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Open 7 days
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myrepublicbank.com • 888.875.2265 Convenient Locations in
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QUALITY IS
IN OUR DNA
Thomas J. Lynch
Vice President & Portfolio Manager 610.995.8753 tlynch@haverfordquality.com
EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR YOUR HOME OR COMMERCIAL GYM.
“I still have great faith in what is ggd and right in all of us.� - Marvin Hamlisch
Thank you for bringing delightful music to our communities
It’s a Whole New Ball Game!
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