Trinity Valley School
Bright Star
Inspired By A True Story Music, Book & Story by Steve Martin
Music, Book & Story by Edie Brickell
Produced by Joey Parnes, Sue Wagner, John Johnson, Zebulon LLC, Jay Alix & Una Jackman, Len Blavatnik, James L. Nederlander, Carson & Joseph Gleberman, Balboa Park Productions, The Shubert Organization, Jamie deRoy/Catherine Adler/Cricket Jiranek In Association With Rodger Hess, A.C. Orange International, Broadway Across America, Sally Jacobs & Warren Baker, Diana DiMenna, Exeter Capital, Agnes Gund, True Love Productions And The Old Globe Directed by MR. GENE SESSA Music Director MR. ALAN BURATTO
Technical Director MR. VANANTHONY WILLIAMS
Stage Manager ROWEN KLIETHERMES
Lighting Designer DEVIN MESEKE
Scenic Co-Designers ROWEN KLIETHERMES & CHARLOTTE STEPHENSON
Sound Designer SOPHIE APPEL
Choreographer CAROLINE SLOTER Poster Designer CHARLOTTE STEPHENSON
Costume Designer KARTHIKA NAMBIAR Hair & Make-up Designer CALLIE MITCHELL
BRIGHT STAR is presented through special arrangement with and all authorized performance materials are supplied by Theatrical Rights Worldwide, 1180 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 640, New York, NY 10036. www.theatricalrights.com
The video or audio recording of this performance by any means is strictly prohibited.
SPECIAL THANKS The entire cast, crew, and production staff of Bright Star would like to extend a very special thank you to Mr. Cage Bass, Dr. Don Carlson, Mrs. Janet Chaffee, Ms. Amanda Collins, Ms. Sherry Duncan, Ms. Maggie Knapp, Ms. Cristy Mayfield, Mrs. Marcy Roten, Dr. Ben Timson, Mr. Chester Wilson, the TVS Arts Booster Club, and the parents of the cast and crew. We appreciate you!
DIRECTOR’S NOTE I have always been drawn to the strange and the unusual, especially when it involves true events. Way back in my former life when I was a TV news producer and reporter in Alabama, I used to keep, for my own amusement, a file of all the bizarre and weird stories that came across the AP and UPI news wires. It’s perhaps no surprise then that I was immediately attracted to this musical, inspired by a most unusual true happening. I am grateful to our Stage Manager Rowen Kliethermes for first calling it to my attention. The actual event, according to legend, happened in Missouri in August of 1902. If you Google “Iron Mountain Baby” and read all the details, you will see that Martin and Brickell weren’t concerned about historical accuracy. For one thing, they set it two decades later and changed the location to North Carolina, Martin’s current home state. And as far as the backstory goes, no one knows it, so they had to use their imaginations. And yes, as has been mentioned by various critics of the work, the story is rather farfetched and the script is at times a bit corny. Yet, there is a simple sweetness to this corn, and ultimately it is a tale of hope and redemption. And can’t we all use a little of that after the year we’ve just gone through? Plus, the music is darn good! And speaking of this past year, it might be worth mentioning that putting on a musical in normal times is very challenging---doing one during Covid-19 has proven extremely difficult. But there is something inherent in theatre that has to do with overcoming obstacles and powering through problems, that makes it all possible even in a pandemic. While we were forced to make some concessions (for example, there is no live orchestra and all food/drink in the play is mimed), our cast and crew have gone to great lengths to make the production as full and as normal as possible. To be honest, I had my doubts, at times, about whether we would be able to do this wonderful show in the way it deserves to be done. I can confidently say that, thanks to the hard work and dedication of many, I now believe we can. From costumes to choreography, from sound effects to set design, this production reflects the resilience and perseverance of our students in the face of one difficulty after another. I am extremely proud of them all. May you enjoy (and your spirits be lifted by) the fruits of their labor. It’s a great show to experience outdoors (or at home online) and its message couldn’t be more perfect for our times---no matter how dark things may get, hang on to hope because one day in the future the sun is gonna shine again! — Mr. Gene Sessa
SHOW SYNOPSIS Inspired by a real event and featuring the Tony®-nominated score by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell, Broadway’s BRIGHT STAR tells a sweeping tale of love and redemption set against the rich backdrop of the American South in the 1920s and ’40s. When literary editor Alice Murphy meets a young soldier just home from World War II, he awakens her longing for the child she once lost. Haunted by their unique connection, Alice sets out on a journey to understand her past – and what she finds has the power to transform both of their lives. Propelled by an ensemble of onstage musicians and dancers, the story unfolds as a rich tapestry of deep emotion, beautiful melodies and powerfully moving performances. An uplifting theatrical journey that holds you tight in its grasp, BRIGHT STAR is as refreshingly genuine as it is daringly hopeful.
BRIGHT STAR CAST Alice Murphy ...........................................Lauren Kochan* Jimmy Ray Dobbs ...................................Wish Lorimer Billy Cane ................................................Gage Brazell* Daddy Cane ............................................Lucas Wilson Daddy Murphy .........................................Grant Gillespie Mama Murphy .........................................Sophie Fine Mayor Dobbs ...........................................Campbell Martin Margo ......................................................Caroline Sloter* Daryl Ames ..............................................Henry Hamilton Max .........................................................Bradyn Engfer Florence/Ensemble .................................Maura Kahuda Edna/Ensemble .......................................Callie Mitchell* Lucy Grant/Ensemble..............................Molly Zimmerman* Stanford/Ensemble ..................................Collin Snyder Dr. Norquist/Ensemble ............................MJ Worsley Spirit #1/Ensemble ..................................Kate Roemer Spirit #2/Ensemble ..................................Abby Everett Spirit #3/Clerk/Ensemble .........................Molly Perez* Well-dressed woman/Ensemble ..............Anna Claire Anderson Stationmaster/Ensemble .........................Berkeley Moore Ensemble ................................................Eleanor Walker * Honor Thespians
BRIGHT STAR DIRECTORS Director ....................................................Mr. Gene Sessa Music Director ........................................Mr. Alan Buratto Technical Director ....................................Mr. VanAnthony Williams Assistant Technical Director ....................Mr. Willie Byrum
BRIGHT STAR DESIGNERS Lighting Designer ....................................Devin Meseke Scenic Co-Designers ..............................Rowen Kliethermes*, Charlotte Stephenson* Choreographer ........................................Caroline Sloter* Sound Designer ......................................Sophie Appel* Costume Designer ..................................Karthika Nambiar* Assistant Designer ..................................Molly Zimmerman* Hair & Make-up Designer ........................Callie Mitchell* Poster Designer ......................................Charlotte Stephenson*
BRIGHT STAR CREW Production Stage Manager .....................Rowen Kliethermes* Assistant Stage Managers ......................Tatum Duncan*, Itzel Muñoz, Caroline Sweet, and Shawn Young Broadcast Stage Manager ......................Caroline Sweet Camera Operator 1 .................................Marga Lee* Camera Operator 2 .................................Tatum Duncan* Back Stage Crew Lead ...........................Itzel Muñoz Run Crew 1 .............................................Emerson Smith Run Crew 2 .............................................Peyton Vlasow-Gillen Run Crew 3 .............................................Foster Good Light Board Operator ...............................Devin Meseke Spot Operator ..........................................Sav Kennedy* Sound Board Operator ............................Sophie Appel* QLab Operator ........................................Catherine Zarr* Costumer .................................................Karthika Nambiar* Master Electricians ..................................Sav Kennedy*, Marga Lee* Props Manager ........................................Itzel Muñoz
* Honor Thespians
BRIGHT STAR ACT ONE SCENE 1 (1945, Somewhere) .........................Alice, Billy, Company If You Knew My Story SCENE 2 (1945, Hayes Creek) .......................Billy, Daddy Cane, Margo She’s Gone SCENE 3 (1945, Hayes Creek) .......................Max, Margo, Billy, Florence, Ensemble Bright Star SCENE 4 (1945, Asheville) ..............................Billy, Daryl, Lucy, Alice, Ensemble Way Back In The Day SCENE 5 (1923, Zebulon) ...............................Alice, Jimmy Ray, Ensemble Whoa, Mama SCENE 6 (1923, Zebulon) ...............................Daddy Murphy, Mama Murphy, Alice, Ensemble Firmer Hand / Do Right SCENE 7 (1923, Zebulon) ...............................Mayor, Jimmy Ray, Stanford A Man’s Gotta Do SCENE 8 (1945, Asheville) ..............................Daryl, Lucy, Billy, Alice, Ensemble Bright Star Underscore SCENE 9 (1945, Hayes Creek) .......................Margo, Edna, Florence, Billy, Ensemble Asheville Picnic Dance SCENE 10 (1923, Zebulon) ............................. Stanford, Ensemble, Jimmy Ray, Alice, Mama Murphy, Daddy Murphy Underscore (By Your Side) What Could Be Better SCENE 11 (1923, Zebulon) ............................. Dr. Norquist, Alice SCENE 12 (1923, Zebulon) ............................. Mayor, Jimmy Ray I Can’t Wait pt. I
ACT ONE (CONTINUED) SCENE 13 (1923, Zebulon) ............................. Alice, Daddy Murphy, Stanford, Dr. Norquist, Mayor, Jimmy Ray, Spirits, Ensemble I Can’t Wait pt. II SCENE 14 (1945, Asheville) ............................Billy, Daryl, Lucy, Alice, Ensemble Scene Change SCENE 15 (1924, Zebulon) ............................. Mama Murphy, Daddy Murphy, Mayor, Alice, Stanford, Ensemble Please, Don’t Take Him SCENE 16 (1924, On A Train Somewhere) .....Mayor, Ensemble A Man’s Gotta Do (Reprise)
ACT TWO Entr’acte Opening Act 2 SCENE 0 (1924, Zebulon) ...............................Stationmaster, Mama Murphy, Alice, Women, Daddy Cane, Margo, Ensemble Sun’s Gonna Shine SCENE 1 (1924, Zebulon) ...............................Jimmy Ray, Mayor Heartbreaker SCENE 2 (1946, Asheville) ..............................Daryl, Lucy, Billy, Ensemble Another Round Another Round Playoff SCENE 3 (1946, Asheville) ..............................Alice, Billy, Daryl SCENE 4 (1946, Raleigh) ................................Alice, Clerk SCENE 5 (1946, Raleigh) ................................Alice, Jimmy Ray, Well-Dressed Woman I Had A Vision SCENE 6 (1946, Hayes Creek) .......................Margo, Max, Billy Always Will
ACT TWO (CONTINUED) SCENE 7 (1946, Zebulon) ...............................Alice, Daddy Murphy, Mama Murphy Sun’s Gonna Shine (Reprise) SCENE 8 (1946, Hayes Creek) .......................Alice, Billy, Daddy Cane, Spirits, Ensemble Baby Sweater Underscore I Can’t Wait (Reprise) So Familiar / At Long Last SCENE 9 (1946, Asheville) ..............................Daryl, Lucy, Jimmy Ray, Alice, Billy, Margo, Company Finale Bows Exit Music
AUTHOR BIOGRAPHIES Steve Martin (Music, Book & Story) is one of the most well-known and pervasive talents in entertainment. His work has earned him an Academy Award, five Grammy Awards (two for comedy, three for music), an Emmy, the Mark Twain Award and the Kennedy Center Honor. As a n a u t h o r, M a r t i n ’ s w o r k i n c l u d e s t h e plays Picasso at the Lapin Agile, The Underpants, and Meteor Shower. Also an accomplished banjoist, Martin created the Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass, an award established to reward artistry and bring greater visibility to bluegrass performers. Edie Brickell (Music, Lyrics & Story) released the debut multiplatinum album SHOOTING RUBBER BANDS AT THE STARS with New Bohemians in 1988. Her recent works include a 13-track collaboration with Steve Martin titled LOVE HAS COME FOR YOU. The album won a Grammy for Best American Roots Song and inspired the musical Bright Star. Their second album, SO FAMILIAR, is out now.
PRODUCTION STAFF BIOGRAPHIES Mr. Gene Sessa (Director) has been working with high school students in theatre for more than twenty years. He has an M.A. in Theatre Directing from Roosevelt University in Chicago. He taught theatre classes at Jesuit College Prep in Dallas and at Theatre Arlington. He has directed productions with young people in Poland and has worked professionally with Teatro La Fragua in Honduras and Shakespeare and Company in Lenox, Massachusetts. Also an actor, he has performed in shows across the U.S., and appeared on stage locally with Frisco Community Theater and Richardson Theatre Centre. In 2011, he was awarded the Bayard H. Friedman Hero Award for best high school theater teacher in North Texas. Mr. Alan Buratto (Music Director) was born in Seattle, Washington and has served as artistic director of the Texas Boys Choir and Director of Education for Fort Worth Opera. As accompanist, Mr. Buratto has collaborated with Fort Worth Opera, TCU and Texas Wesleyan University, and has recorded on MMG, Vox Turnabout and Resmiranda labels, and has served as TMEA All State Choir accompanist. As conductor, Mr. Buratto has directed TCU and TWC operas, served as chorus master for Fort Worth Choir and is recorded on Moulin d’Or and Resmiranda labels. As a director of Texas Boys Choir, Mr. Buratto has collaborated with such groups as Fort Worth Symphony, Dallas Symphony, Santa Fe Opera, and Southwest Texas State Men’s Choir in works ranged from Monteverdi to Stravinsky. Mr. Buratto has conducted numerous clinics and concerts for regional school districts and education conventions, including TMEA and Kodaly/Orff conventions. Mr. VanAnthony Williams (Technical Director) started working at TVS in August of 2018. Mr. Williams served as Theatre Production Manager at Arts Council of Fort Worth, Season Production Manager at TCU Opera in Fort Worth, Technical Director at African American Repertory Theatre in Dallas, and Deputy Production Manager at Carnival Corporation. Mr. Williams holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in theatre production from Tarleton State University. Mr. Williams had the privilege of working with TVS students while he was Theatre Production Manager for the Arts Council of Fort Worth. He enjoyed seeing the spark of inspiration in the students and looks forward to that every day. Mr. Willie Byrum (Assistant Technical Director) is in his second year as Assistant Technical Director at Trinity Valley School. Previously he has worked as scenic carpenter for Granbury Theatre Company, as well as for a number of theaters in the Fort Worth Area.
CAST AND CREW PHOTOS
Anna Claire Anderson
Sophie Appel
Gage Brazell
Tatum Duncan
Abby Everett
Sophie Fine
Grant Gillespie
Sav Kennedy
Rowen Kliethermes
Henry Hamilton
Lauren Kochan
Marga Lee
Wish Lorimer
Bradyn Engfer
Maura Kahuda
Campbell Martin
CAST AND CREW PHOTOS
Devin Meseke
Callie Mitchell
Berkeley Moore
Itzel Muñoz
Karthika Nambiar
Molly Perez
Kate Roemer
Caroline Sloter
Collin Snyder
Caroline Sweet
Eleanor Walker
Lucas Wilson
MJ Worsley
Sean Young
Catherine Zarr
Molly Zimmerman
*Not pictured: Foster Good, Emerson Smith, Charlotte Stephenson, Peyton Vlasow-Gillen
CAST AND CREW BIOGRAPHIES Anna Claire Anderson (Well-dressed woman/Ensemble) Junior, is thrilled to be making her TVS theater debut having just moved from Summit, New Jersey! Anna Claire has performed in various productions since the age of 4. Some of her favorite roles are Molly in Annie, Toto in The Wizard of Oz, Wanda in The Hundred Dresses, Veruca Salt in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and performing in Mamma Mia's Ensemble as a featured dancer. She has loved making new friends and memories in Bright Star. Anna Claire would like to thank her loved ones and mentors for their support! Sophie Appel (Sound Designer/Sound Board Operator) Senior, has been involved in the theater program throughout Upper School as a crew member. She has primarily enjoyed designing sound for the shows. Her favorite shows to work on were 9 to 5, The Sound of Music, and the Faculty-Student Show. Outside of theater, Sophie takes pictures for yearbook and is heavily involved in her work. She is grateful for her very understanding teachers, wonderful parents, and great mentors who have supported and inspired her along the way. Gage Brazell (Billy Cane) Senior, has been involved in theater since Middle School. He’s had many different roles throughout Upper School, including Jack in Into the Woods, Max Detweiler in The Sound of Music, Joe Schmitz in The Arsonists, and Harry in Vietnam 101. Outside of acting, Gage participates in the Summer Shakespeare program and is actively involved with school choir and singing in the chamber ensemble of OAKE National Honor Choir. He would like to thank his parents for supporting him in theater, and all the teachers who have helped him along the way. Tatum Duncan (Assistant Stage Manager/Camera Operator 2) Sophomore, has been involved with theatre since Middle School as both cast and crew. Her favorite onstage role was Grandma Josephina in Willy Wonka, and her favorite (but stressful) role backstage was being Assistant Stage Manager and Props' Mistress in Oliver. During the few hours Tatum does not spend in the theater, she catches up on much needed sleep and rides horses. She thanks her parents and her friends for putting up with her during show and tech week. Bradyn Engfer (Max) Freshman, has been involved in many plays including The Election, Whosdunnit?, School House of Rock The Musical, and more. He has enjoyed any role that the director gives him. Outside of theatre, Bradyn is an athlete and plays mainly tennis. He is hoping to inspire many people. Abby Everett (Spirit #2/Ensemble) Freshman, has been doing theatre all through Middle School, and plans to continue through Upper School as well. Her favorite roles included Nancy in Oliver!, Helena in A Midsummer Nights Dream, and Veruca Salt in Willy Wonka. Along with theater, Abby is involved with cross country and track, as well as singing in the OAKE National Honor Choir since the 4th grade. She is very grateful for all the people who have supported her along the way.
CAST AND CREW BIOGRAPHIES Sophie Fine (Mama Murphy) Senior, has had her fair share of TVS productions over the years, from her very first production as the Kolo Kolo bird in kindergarten to Mama Murphy in Bright Star. Her favorite roles have been Mother Abbess in The Sound of Music and Mama Murphy in Bright Star. Outside of theatre, she indulges herself in singing, participating in voice lessons, National choirs and Regional choirs, and in community service as a part-time server. She would like to thank her parents and Mr. Burrato for all of the support for her endeavors in TVS theater. While she cannot bring TVS theater to college with her next year, she says she will cherish all the memories and lessons that acting here has taught her in the next chapter of her life. Grant Gillespie (Daddy Murphy) Senior, is excited to play the part of Daddy Murphy for Bright Star. His previous experience includes playing the Steward in Into the Woods and Herr Zeller in The Sound of Music. Grant loves spending time with friends during rehearsals and the fun of show week. Foster Good (Run Crew 3) Freshman, enjoyed his on-stage roles as Mr. Sowerberry in Oliver! and Augustus Gloop in Willy Wonka Jr. He is excited to be part of the back stage crew for Bright Star. Henry Hamilton (Daryl Ames) Junior, has been involved in TVS theatre since 5th grade, in the roles of cast and crew. His favorite roles include Rapunzel's Prince in Into the Woods, and Benny Southstreet in Guys and Dolls. Henry also assisted several 5th and 6th grade productions as a backstage crew member. In his free time, Henry enjoys creative writing, and managing the TVS Cross Country team. Henry looks forward to this show and future shows. Maura Kahuda (Florence/Ensemble) Freshman, has actively participated in theatre since 4th grade. Some of her favorite roles include Mary in Mary Poppins, Helena in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Sharon in Finian’s Rainbow Jr. Maura would like to thank Mr. Sessa, Mr. Buratto, Mr. Williams, and the entire cast and crew for making her first musical at TVS such a great experience. She would also like to thank her friends and family for all their love and support. Enjoy the show! Sav Kennedy (Master Electrician/Spot Operator) Junior, has really enjoyed their experience working as a backstage crew member for Bright Star. Sav has also served in various other technical theatre roles over the years, including Into The Woods (spot light operator), Student-Faculty Show (set crew), Oliver! (Assistant Lighting Designer), and The Election (Lighting Designer). Outside of theatre, Sav is very involved in performing community service. They volunteer with numerous philanthropic organizations, spending many hours helping both people and animals. Rowen Kliethermes (Production Stage Manager/Scenic Co-Designer) Senior, is so grateful for the opportunity to work with such amazing people on such an interesting and complicated show. She has worked on more than 15 Trinity Valley School productions including Vietnam 101: The War on Campus, The Arsonists, and the infamous Approaching Zanzibar under the guidance and care of many wonderful faculty members.
CAST AND CREW BIOGRAPHIES Lauren Kochan (Alice Murphy) Junior, is thrilled to share this story with you! She has been a part of TVS theatre since Middle School, earning roles in eleven TVS productions. Lauren enjoys working with younger students and getting the opportunity to watch their love of theatre grow. Her favorite shows include Into the Woods (Cinderella), The Sound of Music (Liesl), and Peter Pan (Wendy). Aside from theatrical performances, Lauren is a member of the Upper School choir and participates in the OAKE National Honor Choir annually. She is forever grateful to Mr. Sessa, Mr. Buratto, Mrs. Carlson, and her vocal coaches for their support and guidance. Additionally, Lauren would like to thank her family and friends for all their love and encouragement. Enjoy the show! Marga Lee (Master Electrician/Camera Operator 1) Junior, has worked as a backstage crew member in many theatre productions. Outside of theater, Marga enjoys playing in the TVS Drumline and working on the Competitive Coding team, among other activities. She is grateful for her family and her many teachers who have offered guidance, support and inspiration. Wish Lorimer (Jimmy Ray Dobbs) Senior, has been a mainstay with the TVS Players from his first role as Sky Masterson in Guys and Dolls in 8th grade to Rolf in The Sound of Music and Cinderella's Prince in Into The Woods. He was part of the cast and crew in several musicals and plays, including the Carlson’s Much Ado About Shakespeare summer programs. Outside of theater, Wish is a part of BARD club and recently earned Honorable Mention in the Shakespeare Monologue Regionals. He also has managed the men’s varsity basketball team for the past 2 seasons and was a broadcaster for the live streamed football games this past fall. He is very grateful for the unconditional love of his parents and grandparents (especially his Mimi). And he will never forget the mentors that inspired and supported him along the way at TVS, especially Dr. and Mrs. Carlson, Mr. Sessa, and Dr. O'Reilly. Campbell Martin (Mayor Dobbs) Freshman, has been involved in theatre since Middle School in both performance and crew. His favorite role was playing Bill Sikes in the musical Oliver! Campbell also assisted in crew work in 101 Dalmatians. Outside of the theater, he travels around Texas to play club volleyball. Campbell thanks his family for always supporting him and his busy schedule. Devin Meseke (Lighting Designer/Light Board Operator) Senior, has been working in tech theatre for seven years now. Devin’s past experiences include designing sets for Trinity Valley School, lighting design, carpentry, and scenic painting. Callie Mitchell (Edna/Ensemble/Hair and Make up Designer) Senior, has been involved with TVS Theater since 5th grade. She has done acting, makeup, publicity, and choreography while in Upper School. Over the summer Callie was also a part of Much Ado About Shakespeare at TVS. Some of her favorite roles have been Silvia in Two Gentlemen of Verona and Isabelle in Senior One Acts. She’s thankful for the amazing teachers and wonderful peers she got to work with over the years.
CAST AND CREW BIOGRAPHIES Berkeley Moore (Stationmaster/Ensemble) Freshman, is excited to be participating in her fifth musical at TVS. Theatre is Berkeley’s favorite activity, and she has performed in musicals at Casa Mañana in the past. She also enjoys singing. Berkeley would like to thank her family for coming to every show and being supportive. Itzel Muñoz (Assistant Stage Manager/Back Stage Crew Lead/Props Manager) Junior, has been in theatre since Sophomore year as a member of the backstage crew. Itzel especially enjoyed being a part of Oliver! because it gave them real experience being backstage. Itzel also found being crew for the Student-Faculty One Acts very entertaining because of all the different things the crew was able to set up. When not backstage, Itzel enjoys different types of art, such as drawing and playing instruments. Karthika Nambiar (Costume Designer/Costumer) Senior, has been involved in the theatre program ever since she came to Trinity Valley School as a Sophomore. She has enjoyed working as a costume designer in many Upper School and Middle School shows. Some of her favorite productions she's designed for are Into the Woods and 101 Dalmatians. Outside theatre, Karthika enjoys participating in many school clubs like Unity Club and the Junior World Affairs Council. She is thankful to her family and to all the members of the cast and crew who have helped make the last few years in TVS theatre amazing. Molly Perez (Spirit #3/Clerk/Ensemble) Senior, is super excited to be participating in her last musical at TVS. She has been in Into the Woods and worked on set for a number of other shows. She would like to thank her parents for supporting her in all of her endeavors. Kate Roemer (Spirit #1/Ensemble) Sophomore, has been part of the theatre program at TVS since 5th grade. Her favorite roles were Duchess in Aristocats, Maleficent in Sleeping Beauty, Peter Pan in Peter Pan, and Makenzie TV in Willy Wonka. Outside of theatre, Kate loves to volunteer in the Community Service Club. She is also a member of the SDEI club (Student Diversity Equity and Inclusion) at TVS. She is thankful for her family for putting up with her constant and often loud singing. Caroline Sloter (Margo/Choreographer) Senior, is so excited to be performing in Bright Star as her last TVS musical. Caroline is also thrilled to have the opportunity to choreograph this show. She has been involved in the TVS theater program throughout her Middle and Upper School career, participating in more than 15 productions as cast and crew. Some of her favorite roles include Liesl in The Sound of Music, Sarah Brown in Guys and Dolls, and Nala in The Lion King Jr. Caroline has also been dancing with TVS Dance since its inception and is a part of OAKE National Honor Choir and TVS’s Thespian Society Troupe. Caroline is beyond grateful to Mr. Sessa, Ms. Wright, Mrs. Carlson, Mr. Buratto, and everyone who has supported and mentored her throughout all of her performance endeavors. Emerson Smith (Run Crew 1) Freshman, is excited to be part of the back stage crew making the magic happen for Bright Star. In addition to theatre, Emerson plays violin and enjoys biking.
CAST AND CREW BIOGRAPHIES Collin Snyder (Stanford/Ensemble) Freshman, enjoyed performing in productions throughout Middle School. Some of his favorite roles include Augustus Gloop in Willy Wonka and Dodger in Oliver!. Aside from theatre, Collin enjoys activities like rock climbing and photography. Collin is thankful to all the people that helped put this show together in this difficult time. Charlotte Stephenson (Scenic Co-Designer) Senior, is back on campus to participate in her last major production at Trinity Valley School! After over a year of absence, she is excited to return to her theatre family. Over the last six years, Charlotte has worked in the lighting department but has officially gotten to extend her design enthusiasm into set (though our directors have loved to hear her valuable input in these matters throughout the years). Charlotte has also been designing publicity graphics for shows including The Election, Into the Woods, and the Student-Faculty Show. She has loved designing with a new medium and hopes to continue learning digital art in the future. Charlotte does not know what she wants to pursue in college or where she will be attending, but she wants to keep theatre a part of her life. Charlotte would like to thank her mom, her dad, and her stepmom for always supporting her in every way. She would also like to thank Rowen Kliethermes for taking on this challenge with her. Furthermore, Charlotte would like to thank Mr. Williams for granting her this design opportunity and for putting up with over a year of virtual meetings and confusion. Charlotte also wants to recognize every person that made her (and Rowen's) vision come to life and then some—especially the amazing crew, Mr. Byrum, Mr. Williams, the other designers, Mr. Sessa, and Mr. Williams' tech class. 24#Blue.Bodacious.sushi! Caroline Sweet (Broadcast Stage Manager/Assistant Stage Manager) Sophomore, enjoys being in the technical theatre program and is excited to participate in her second Upper School musical. Past shows she has participated in as a member of the crew are Into the Woods, the 2019 StudentFaculty show, and 2020 Senior One Acts (in addition to several Middle School shows). Caroline enjoys listening to musicals in her spare time. She is grateful for her friends who make TVS Theatre a wonderful place to be. Peyton Vlasow-Gillen (Run Crew 2) Freshman, is enjoying helping behind the scenes as part of the back stage crew for Bright Star. Peyton has also enjoyed performing on stage in past Middle School productions. Her favorite roles include playing Charlotte in Oliver! and Mrs. Bucket in Willy Wonka Jr. Eleanor Walker (Ensemble) Freshman, has been in multiple TVS productions throughout Middle School as a member of the cast. Her favorite role was Ms. Gloop in Willy Wonka, but she has also greatly enjoyed her ensemble roll this year. Outside of theatre, Eleanor has sung in the OAKE National Honor Choir and TCDA Choir. She is thankful for her parents and all of the amazing opportunities that TVS has offered in Fine Arts. Eleanor is also extremely grateful for all of the student cast and crew, and faculty who came together and have worked very hard to make this show possible during COVID.
CAST AND CREW BIOGRAPHIES Lucas Wilson (Daddy Cane) Senior, has been involved in the theater program since 8th grade. He has been in various father figure roles since then and his favorite roles have been Nathan from Guys and Dolls and Captain Von Trapp in The Sound of Music. Lucas has also been in choir since 8th grade and made All State Choir this year. He is thankful for his family as they have always pushed him to try these things. Even when he wasn't at TVS they pushed him to join choir in 5th grade, and he made Honor choir. He owes all of his success to the love and support of his family. MJ Worsley (Dr. Norquist/Ensemble) Freshman, loves theatre and has acted in many TVS productions over the years. Their favorite roles have included the White Rabbit in Alice in Wonderland Jr., the reporter Phineous Trout in Willy Wonka, and Mrs. Sowerberry in Oliver! MJ has also participated in both TCU and TVS Shakespeare Summer Camps, and loved playing a virtual Puck in A Midsummer Night's Dream this past Summer. Most recently, MJ played a student in the Thurgood Marshall Project put on virtually by Stage West Theatre and the Bass Hall Education Program. In their spare time, MJ enjoys reading, drawing, and writing fiction. They are involved in Thalia and the Community Service Club. Shawn Young (Assistant Stage Manager) Sophomore, has enjoyed theatre both on the stage and working behind the scenes in many productions over the years. A few of his favorite roles include Jack's cow in Into the Woods, Lysander in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Mr. Bucket in Willy Wonka. Shawn also greatly enjoyed acting in the Senior One Acts last year with Dr. Carlson in Read The Whole Thing and is looking forward to stage managing Devin Meseke’s Senior One Act play Anti-Depressants this year. In addition to theatre, Sean runs cross country, plays soccer and volleyball, and helps make our world better through his community service activities. Catherine Zarr (QLab Operator) Junior, is excited to be involved in Bright Star and has enjoyed participating in past TVS productions both as cast and crew. You may have seen--or in one case heard loudly from above--Catherine in The Election, Senior Directed One-Acts, Into the Woods, Student Faculty Show, and The Sound of Music, but Catherine has also enjoyed assisting sound design in Oliver!, 101 Dalmatians, Willy Wonka, and Alice in Wonderland. Outside of theatre, Catherine plays multiple musical instruments and leads TVS US Science teams. "Cathy" is thankful to all the amazing friends who have been there every step of the way, making participating in each one of these shows a joy. Molly Zimmerman (Lucy Grant/Ensemble) Junior, is so excited for this production of Bright Star! This will be her Senior musical and the last TVS show in which she will act. Over the years, Molly has had so many amazing experiences with TVS drama, from her Freshman production of 9 to 5, to her first big role in Senior Directed One Acts during Sophomore year, exploring the costume designing side of theatre, and finally preparing to direct her own One Act this April. The friends she’s made and the lessons she’s learned through TVS theatre are priceless, and she is endlessly grateful to everyone who made her time in this program so worthwhile.
Arts Booster Club Board 2020-2021 OFFICERS President: Carrie Kochan President-Elect: Monika Worsley Secretary/Parliamentarian: Audrey Davis Treasurer: Martha Zarr
Choir Liaison: Natalie Timson Dance Liaison: Anjum George Feed My Child - MS Co-Chairs: Stephanie Christopher, Shannon Moore Feed My Child - US Chair: Alice Pritchard Google Drive Chair: Brea Hudgins Hospitality - MS Co-Chairs: Tonya Cammack, Nesli Chandler Hospitality - US Chair: Laurie Mitchell Literary Arts Liaison: Tina Goss Member at Large LS: Katy Roberts
Membership Co-Chairs: Brian Gibson, Jen Munro Programs Co-Chairs: Audrey Davis, Linda Kiraly, Rochelle White, Monika Worsley Banners & Posters Chair: Natalya Cherry Theater Arts Liaison - US: Azilee Stephenson Ticket Sales - MS Co-Chairs: Noemi Sek, Kim Zavaleta Visual Arts Liaison: Elisabeth Ivy Volunteer Wrangler/Community Service Chair: Amy Purifoy Lopez
Gage — May your Bright Star forever shine upon you!
We are so proud of you! Love, Dad, Mom, Trent and Leah
It is not in the
Stars to hold our Destiny but in Ourselves
-William Shakespeare .
Keep forging your own destiny, Lauren! We are so proud of you. Love, Mom, Dad & William
Henry, we won’t mortify you this time with an embarrassing ad, and will simply say we are SO proud of our trail blazing son. Break a leg!
Wish, You are our Bright Star! Let your light shine from stage into life. We love you and are so proud of you! Mimi, Boppa, and John
Congratulations, Sophie!!! We are so proud of you. Keep shining—You are our Bright Star. Love, Mom and Dad, Meemaw and Beepaw, Pa and Terry
Congratulations to the technical theatre crew who worked tirelessly behind the scenes and back-stage to make Bright Star come together. From sets to sound, from lights to mics, from costumes and props to hammer and nails, you made the magic possible. We see you and we appreciate you! The Zarrs
Eleanor, You brighten the world with your music and voice. Keep sharing these wonderful gifts! We love you!! —Dad, Mom, and Benjamin (and our extended feline family)
To Rowen, our favorite Stage Manager— You have accomplished so much and it s hard to believe this is your last T VS show. We love you and are so proud of you!
‘
Love, Mom, Dad, Jack, and Samuel
Wish— From Sky to Rolf, and Claudio to Cinderella’s Prince—you played the lover so well. As you take your final bows at TVS as Jimmy Ray, know that we are proud of you. Shine on Bubba! Love, Mom, Dad and Lanie
You never cease to amaze us and always make us so proud! We love you, Bradyn. Congratulations to the cast and crew of Bright Star! We can’t wait to see the show. Best wishes to all, The Engfer/Abrams Family
Campbell, Just before the pandemic began in 2020, we watched you shine brightly on stage as Bill Sikes in Oliver! A very long year later, we are grateful to be able to watch you perform in your first Upper School t h e a t r e m u s i c a l . Yo u r resilience during this difficult time is just one more reason we are so very proud of you. Love, Mom, Dad, Davis & William