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letter from the executive producer Who doesn’t remember watching the annual MGM film starring Judy Garland? L. Frank Baum’s classic story "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" was first published in 1900, and since then has brought the story of Dorothy Gale and her magical adventures with her friends to film, television and stage. Throughout the ages, children have been entranced by fairy tales, legends, myths and folklore dating back to the stories of Grimm and Anderson. However, Baum wanted to put away those “historical fairy tales” in favor of a new series of “wonder tales,” bringing happiness to childish hearts. He masters this by telling a classic story of a young girl with dreams and desires that holds memories for all of us. Baum encourages us to look at our own lives - growing up with pains of disappointment, hope for the future, joy in true friendship, and the importance of family and home. Now in our ninth year, Variety Children’s Theatre is delighted to bring this production, in all its glorious history, to you and yours. We hope to provide a special memory of how Variety accomplished it, with the help of some 58 children with disabilities on stage and backstage. Director Lara Teeter, in his ninth year with Variety, will enliven this cast with his boundless creativity, drawing us into the story and reminding us why we love his work. And this year is no exception. We are excited to announce that for the first time in his professional career, he will be directing his own daughter Elizabeth in the starring role! Now more than ever, all of us at Variety are in complete awe of your overwhelming response to the Variety Children’s Theatre program. The past three years alone have been sold out, with over 22,000 attending. All because of your sustained support, this unique program is dedicated to giving children of all abilities the chance to shine, giving professionals of superior talent a chance to make it happen, and giving a community something unique to be proud of. There’s no other program like it in the world!
Jan Albus Executive Producer
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Variety Children’s Theatre presents
by
L. Frank Baum
Adapted by Frank Gabrielson with music and lyrics of the MGM motion pictures score by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg. Background music by Herbert Stothart.
elizabeth teeter martin fox
Starring
drew humphrey patrick blindauer
Also Starring
julie tabash kelsheimer allison newman alan knoll rich pisarkiewicz laurie mcconnell nessa as toto Directed and Choreographed by
lara teeter
Musical Director/Conductor greg schweizer
Scenic Designer dunsi dai
Lighting Designer john wylie
Production Stage Manager emilee buchheit
Sound Designer rusty wandall
Costume Designer robert fletcher & kansas city costume
AerodynamicsÂŽ flying by foy
Animals william berloni theatrical animals, inc.
Assistant Choreographer dustin crumbaugh
Executive Producer
jan albus
The musical show is produced by arrangement with, and the musical and dialogue material furnished by Tams-Witmark Music Library Inc. at 560 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY 10022. Variety Children's Theatre is a professional theatre employing members of the Actors' Equity Association, The Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the USA, and the United Scenic Artists.
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Variety the Children's Charity of St. Louis — variety board of directors — Lawrence K. Otto, Chairman Steve Crimmins, Vice Chairman Marilyn Fox, Vice Chairman Mark Abels Warner Baxter Amy Best Mark Burkhart Joe Castellano Laura Ellenhorn Ray Farris Don Ferguson Sean Fleming Cheri Fromm Ray Gruender David Hogan Nevada A. Kent IV J. Christopher Kerckhoff, Jr. Lee Kling Patricia Kopetz
Thelma Steward, Vice Chairman Steve Gross, Secretary Leslie Wilson, Treasurer
Nancy Kranzberg Patrick Larmon Davida Layer Mike Lefton Danny Ludeman Nick McGeehon Bill Menke Robert O’Loughlin Lucia Rosenbloom Bevis Schock Paul Shaughnessy Dave Spence Kimberly Springer Michael Staenberg
chairman emeritus David Steward
honorary life members: Kimmy Brauer William H.T. Bush James T. Byrnes Nancy Diemer Cliff Eason Margaret Imo Mark Koritz Chip Rosenbloom Ozzie Smith
— variety staff — Jan Albus Chief Executive Officer
Jean Larson Steck Communications Director
Karen Haglin Accounting Manager
Brian Roy Executive Director
Misty Burton Health Services Manager
Mandy Pratt Grant & Proposal Writer
Christina Altholz Chief Financial Officer
Robin Diehl Program Manager
Kara Schmid Communications Manager
Brett Schott Chief Development Director
Wes Edwards Major Gifts Officer
Nadia Shaver Graphics Manager
Julie Probst Special Events Director
Janna Greenwood Database Manager & Analyst
Carolyn Smith Health Services Associate
Linda Sanders Development Director
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Patty Haeffner Executive Assistant
The Story of The Wizard of Oz After a tornado sweeps through Dorothy’s little Kansas town, she is transported to the magical world of Oz. When she arrives, Dorothy is shocked to find that her house has landed on top of the Wicked Witch of the East, killing her and freeing the residents of Munchkinland. As the Munchkins rejoice, the witch’s sister – the Wicked Witch of the West – appears to avenge her death and retrieve her ruby slippers. Before she can claim them, the coveted slippers magically appear on Dorothy’s feet with the help of Glinda the Good Witch of the North. The Wicked Witch promises revenge before disappearing in a cloud of smoke. Dorothy, who was accompanied to Oz by her dog Toto, simply wants to return home before anything else can happen. But how can she get there? “Follow the yellow brick road,” says Glinda, and find the Wizard of Oz in Emerald City. Glinda also promises Dorothy that the ruby slippers will help keep her safe on her journey. Along the way, Dorothy befriends a Scarecrow with no brain, a Tin Man with no heart and a Lion with no courage – all hoping the Wizard can give them, too, what they want most. Upon reaching the Emerald City, the Wizard informs the group that, before he can help, they must return with the broom of the Wicked Witch of the West. They succeed and return triumphant to the Wizard, who they are surprised to discover is just an ordinary man behind a curtain. He does, however, have one more trick up his sleeve – granting the wishes of the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion through common sense. In the end, Glinda the Good Witch shows Dorothy that she had the power to return home to Kansas all along.
House Rules • The videotaping or other video or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited • Photographing this production is also strictly prohibited • Patrons with pagers, cell phones, or other sound emitting devices (including wrist watches with alarms of any kind) MUST turn them off or silence them — Thank you and enjoy the show!—
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STARLIGHT FOUNDING SPONSOR Ken & Nancy Kranzberg ken and nancy kranzberg work tirelessly on behalf of arts education and to provide accessibility to the arts for everyone in St. Louis — including Variety’s children with disabilities. In 2009, when Variety Children’s Theatre was just an idea proposed by Variety CEO Jan Albus, Ken and Nancy rallied behind it with a generous donation that funded that very first show – The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. “As the original funders of Variety Children’s Theatre, we naturally have a special place in our hearts for the first production,” Nancy said. “But it has been the bigger thrill to see the quality in each production reach new heights each year — constantly remaining above par.” Now in its ninth year, every VCT production has been funded by the Kranzbergs. “We have continued to support Variety Children’s Theatre because we think it is important, not only for children with disabilities to have a way to express themselves, but for children without disabilities to learn acceptance and gain the ability to work with a diverse cast of people.” Nancy serves on the Variety Board of Directors and in 2008 was named Variety Woman of the Year. Ken was named Variety Man of the Year in 2016.
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STARLIGHT SPONSOR David & Thelma Steward david and thelma steward are among our community’s most devoted ambassadors for children with special needs, always recognizing and responding immediately to their needs, big or small. Inspired by what they have seen each year on the stage of Variety Children’s Theatre, the Stewards did not hesitate to support this program, understanding its crucial role in helping Variety children realize their dreams, while also educating the entire audience to see well beyond a person’s disabilities. “We’ve been inspired each year as we’ve watched the children perform onstage. Thelma and I are blessed to join in and support this vital program that makes such a difference in so many lives,” David said. Besides theatre, the Stewards also support Variety’s Lifts for Kids, Bikes for Kids, Now Hear This, TherHappy Kids, and Special Equipment programs, as well as provide underwriting for Dinner with the Stars and Runway Lights Fashion Show. David, a former Variety Man of the Year, served four years as Chairman of the Variety Board of Directors before being named Chairman Emeritus. Thelma is serving her fifth term on the board and is preparing for her ninth year as Honorary Chairman of the Runway Lights Fashion Show. She was previously chairman of the Variety Children’s Chorus and in 2012 was honored at Dinner With the Stars as Variety’s Woman of the Year. Since 2000, David and Thelma have provided the leadership and support to lift Variety to new heights in helping local children with disabilities.
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STARLIGHT SPONSOR Ron & Cheri Fromm ron and cheri fromm embrace
every opportunity to help local children, and the St. Louis arts community. That makes Variety Children’s Theatre the perfect fit for their generous philanthropic endeavors. The Fromms are especially drawn to activities that are inclusive, bringing together people with and without disabilities to accomplish a common goal. “Variety Children’s Theatre builds community spirit for all involved—the Variety kids on stage and behind the scenes, the production staff, the Equity actors, parents, audiences and countless volunteers,” said Cheri. Ron and Cheri also have a personal interest in VCT this year. Not only is their daughter, Dawn Gilbertson, part of the adult ensemble in tonight’s show, and was a cast member in many of our previous productions, the couple’s grandchildren are also in the show for the first time. Beyond theatre, Ron and Cheri are year-round supporters of Variety events and the “Kids on the Go” mobility program. Cheri currently serves on the Variety Board of Directors and is an active Variety Woman.
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STARLIGHT SPONSOR Terry & Sally Schnuck terry and sally schnuck
have long supported Variety and our theatre program, attending some of our very first productions. After falling in love with Variety Children’s Theatre, they became Starlight Sponsors of Peter Pan and Mary Poppins. Terry says his connection with Variety has only grown over time. “I have been familiar with Variety for many years stretching back to my days when I was general counsel at Schnuck Markets and oversaw some of the charitable giving,” Terry said. “I was quite familiar with the Variety Cash for Kids program.” An accomplished Broadway producer, Terry is sincerely vested in helping to give children of all abilities the opportunity to shine on stage, feel the magic and learn about acceptance. “We choose to support Variety Children’s Theatre because it gives children with disabilities the same opportunity as any other kid to be involved in a theatrical production, to learn skills and to be a member of a team working toward a common goal,” Terry said. “And not may kids get to be involved in a professional production such as these. You can see the joy on their faces as they participate.” Terry’s most recent Broadway producer credits include: Bandstand, Significant Other and Shear Madness. Variety is proud to be supported by one of Broadway’s most prolific producers.
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STARLIGHT SPONSOR Michael & Noémi Neidorff michael and noémi neidorff
are great philanthropists and contributors to the arts in the St. Louis area. Both have been awarded with Variety’s Man and Woman of the Year awards, making Variety history as the only couple to win in backto-back years. They also have a named endowment for Variety Adventure Camp. In 2014, the Neidorffs added yet another level to their many contributions to Variety by becoming Starlight Sponsors for Variety Children’s Theatre. “We enjoy helping organizations that deal with youth,” Michael said. “We think it is important to find organizations that pull us all together versus isolate us.” Almost as soon as they moved to town in the mid-1980s, Michael and Noémi connected with Variety. One of their first volunteer projects was fielding phone calls at the Variety telethon. Since then, Michael has moved to make his company, Centene, one of Variety’s top corporate partners. In fact, Centene won the 2014 Variety International Corporate Award. It’s an honor that established Centene as the year’s most valuable corporate contributor to any Variety chapter across the globe! We’re honored to have such a mighty company, and equally mighty couple, in our corner.
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WE CARE about a Healthy Future. We are proud to support Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis 11
PAT R ON S UP P O RTE R S
Ruby Slipper Patrons Dana Brown Charitable Trust Don Ferguson
Regional Arts Council Weissman's Design's Dance
Courageous Lion Patrons William S. Kallaos Family Foundation
Tom & Carol Voss
Brainy Scarecrow Patrons Sander Foundation Mike & Debbie Lefton
Sandy Moll
Tin Man Patrons BMO Harris Bank Sandy Buschmann Cliff & Linda Eason Collin & Karen McAtee
Missouri Arts Council Safety National Gladys Stannard Jim & Mary Roberts
Munchkin Patrons Mark & Merri Abels The Balmer Family Rick & Patti Eiseman Ernst & Young Al & Kay Kent
Matthew & Pia Koster Sakiyama Family Foundation Kim & Robert Springer Zach Smith Anonymous
Friends of Variety Children's Theatre Julie & Marc Bahr Barbara & Rusty Briggs Kathleen & Bill Fienup
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The Lindenmayer Family Karen & John McFarland Salt River Production Group
C OR P OR ATE S U P PO RTE R S
U.S. Bank’s commitment to invest in innovative programs that build audiences for the arts in underserved populations and make differences in the lives of children aligns directly with the core mission of the Variety Children’s Theatre program. Whether it’s the thousands of children with disabilities who’ll be inspired after seeing their peers perform onstage this weekend, or the thousands of guests each year whose first exposure to live musical theatre is a Variety production, we’re proud to support the first fully inclusive professional children’s theatre production in the country!
Centene believes in the power of the arts to help strengthen and enrich our community’s culture. As exemplified by the Centene Center for Arts and Education in Grand Center, as well as numerous other contributions to the local arts community, Centene supports the vibrant creativity of St. Louis. Not just for today’s St. Louisans, but for future generations as well. Because of that commitment, and as one of Variety’s highest-level supporters, Centene proudly sponsors Variety Children’s Theatre.
World Wide Technology, Inc. (WWT) is a long-term supporter of Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis as well as Variety Children’s Theatre. Dedicated to supporting the community and non-profit organizations that work to broaden opportunities and increase the potential for all individuals, WWT is fully aligned with Variety’s mantra of “I CAN!” and is honored to play a role in bringing this year’s inclusive production of The Wizard of Oz to the stage for all to enjoy.
Since the very first show in 2009, Variety Children's Theatre has had a decidedly Webster University flavor. Many members of the production crew teach at Webster's Conservatory for Theatre Arts. Many cast members are, or have been, students there, and many audition sessions have been held on the Webster campus. New last year, Webster University has leapt into the role of headliner as one of our cherished corporate sponsors.
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Cast In order of appearance Dorothy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Elizabeth Teeter* Toto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nessa Aunt Em. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Laurie McConnell* Uncle Henry/Emerald City Guard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rich Pisarkiewicz* Zeke/Cowardly Lion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Patrick Blindauer Hickory/Tin Man. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Martin Fox Hunk/Scarecrow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Drew Humphrey* Gulch/Wicked Witch of the West. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Allison Newman* Professor Marvel/The Wizard of Oz. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alan Knoll* Glinda. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Julie Tabash Kelsheimer* Mayor of Munchkinland. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nick George Coroner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Charlie Mathis Barrister. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lenore Upwood Crows. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Geoffrey Alexander ♦, Dustin Crumbaugh ♦, Brandon Fink* ♦ Apple Trees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Will Bonfiglio, Nathanael Hirst, Mitchell Holsclaw W, Caleb Long Nikko. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Geoffrey Alexander ♦ Monkeys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alex Eichholz, Cole Gutmann, Nathanael Hirst, Mitchell Holsclaw W, Blake Klenke, Trey Perlut Snowmen/Snowwomen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lillian Aken ♦, Geoffrey Alexander ♦, Dustin Crumbaugh ♦, Brandon Fink* ♦, Dawn Gilbertson, Miranda Payne ♦, Erin Prange ♦ Understudies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Eileen Engel (Dorothy), Nathanael Hirst (Scarecrow), Will Bonfiglio (Tin Man),
Rich Pisarkiewicz* (The Wizard of Oz), Dena DiGiacinto* (Wicked Witch), Caleb Long (Lion/Uncle Henry), Corbyn SprayberryW (Glinda), Kay Love (Aunt Em), Dustin Crumbaugh ♦ (Nikko)
Dance Captain, Miranda Payne♦
adult ensemble: Lillian Aken♦, Geoffrey Alexander ♦, Audrey Beyersdorfer,
Will Bonfiglio, Hope Brazel, Dustin Crumbaugh♦, Dena DiGiacinto*, Eileen Engel, Jamie Eros, Brandon Fink * ♦, Chandler Ford, Dawn Gilbertson, Cole Gutmann, Nathanael Hirst, Mitchell Holsclaw W, Caleb Long, Kay Love, Sophie Murk W, Miranda Payne♦, Erin Prange♦, Corbyn Sprayberry W, Caitlin Witty W.
kid and teen ensemble: Ryan Austin, Ellie Baclesse, Jenna Balmer, Bella Behrle, Rachel Bloom, Kara Bloom, Deanna Brooks, Mollie Carter, .Ida Chen, Holly Connor, Michael Curdt, Marcus Davis, Olivia Eaker, Alex Eichholz, Carter Eiseman, Lacey Fowler, Nick George, Taylor Gilbert, Brielle Gilberston, Tanner Gilbertson, Selah Harris, .Maddie Hewgley, Brian Horton, Caroline Joyce, Olivia Kallaos, Gracie Kelley, Blake Klenke, Gigi Koster, Peyton LaMartina, Adair Lindenmayer, Charlie Mathis, Natalie McAtee, .Phoebe McFarland, Chase Miller, Sydney Mitchell, Bridget Moehlman, Emily Moranville, Brendan Morris, Abbie Mueller, Kaitlyn Patrick, Morgan Patrick, Trey Perlut, .Makenzie Ruebel, Natalie Scheers, Katherine Teeter, Maggie Teeter, Lenore Upwood, Annie Williams.
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*Actors' Equity Association | ♦ The Big Muddy Dance Co. W Webster University’s Conservatory for Theatre Arts
Orchestra Music Director/Conductor Greg Schweizer* Flute Maggie McCallie* Oboe Jan Parkes* Reed l Mike Buerk* Reed ll Robert Hughes* Reed lll Mike Karpowicz* French Horn l Scott Hammann* French Horn ll Allison Felter* Trumpet l Andy Tichenor* Trumpet ll Randy Holmes* Trombone Dan Potter* Percussion Jerry Bolen* Drums Kevin Gianino* Harp Cherilyn Trusty* Keyboard l (Rehearsal Accompanist) Carolbeth True* Keyboard ll Diane Ceccarini* Violin l (Concertmaster) Ed Simon* Violin l Adela Rybarova † Violin ll Marilyn Humiston* Viola Deberah Haferkamp* Viola Sam Larsen† Viola Amy Tripodi † Cello Beverly Field* Cello Camille Cundiff † Cello James Farquhar † Bass Dr. Robert Lowe* * Members of Musicians' Association Local 2-197 † Members of UMSL Orchestra
Musical Director Greg Schweizer conducting the Variety Orchestra
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Scenes & Musical Numbers
ACT I OVERTURE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Orchestra SCENE 1: THE KANSAS PRAIRIE SCENE 2: THE RAINBOW “Over the Rainbow”. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dorothy
SCENE 3: KANSAS SCENE 4: GYPSY CARAVAN SCENE 5: THE TWISTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Company SCENE 6: MUNCHKINLAND Munchkin Musical Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Glinda, Dorothy, Munchkins “Yellow Brick Road”. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Munchkins
SCENE 7: THE CORNFIELD “If I Only Had a Brain” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Scarecrow, Dorothy, Crows “We’re Off to See the Wizard”. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dorothy, Scarecrow
SCENE 8: THE APPLE ORCHARD “If I Only Had a Heart”. . . . . . . . . . . . Tin Man, Dorothy, Scarecrow, Trees
SCENE 9: WANT TO PLAY BALL? “We’re Off to See the Wizard”. . . . . . . . . . . . Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man
SCENE 10: WILD FOREST “If I Only Had the Nerve”. . . . . . . . . . . Lion, Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man “We’re Off to See the Wizard”. . . . . . . Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion
SCENE 11: POPPIES “Poppies”. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ensemble, Glinda, Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, Snowmen, Snowwomen
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Scenes & Musical Numbers
ACT II ENTR’ACTE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Orchestra SCENE 1: GATES OF EMERALD CITY “The Merry Old Land of Oz” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, Guard, Ozians
SCENE 2: EMERALD CITY TOWN SQUARE “The Merry Old Land of Oz” (Reprise) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Guard, Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, Ozians “If I were the King of the Forest”. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lion, Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man
SCENE 3: THE WIZARD’S CHAMBER SCENE 4: THE WITCH’S CASTLE SCENE 5: THE HAUNTED FOREST “Jitterbug”. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, Jitterbugs
SCENE 6: FLYING MONKEYS SCENE 7: THE WITCH’S CASTLE SCENE 8: MAIN GATE OF THE WITCH’S CASTLE “March of the Winkies”. . . . . . . . . . . . . Winkies, Lion, Scarecrow, Tin Man
SCENE 9: THE WITCH’S CHAMBERS “Over the Rainbow” (Reprise). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dorothy “Ding Dong! The Witch is Dead”. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Winkies
SCENE 10: THE WIZARD’S CHAMBER SCENE 11: BALLOON IN EMERALD CITY SCENE 12: FAREWELL TO OZ SCENE 13: THE KANSAS PRAIRIE BOWS AND PLAYOUT . . . . . . . . Orchestra (Arranged by Greg Schweizer)
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Cast Who’s Who ELIZABETH TEETER (Dorothy) joins Variety after appearing on Broadway in the 2016 Tony-nominated The Crucible (Betty), The Audience, starring Helen Mirren (Young Elizabeth), and Mary Poppins (Jane Banks). NYC workshops of Ever After with Sierra Boggess (director Kathleen Marshall), Lord Tom with Phillip Boykin (director John Tartaglia), and Merman's Apprentice with Desi Oakley (recording on iTunes). Locally seen at The Muny, The Rep, Opera Theatre, Missouri Ballet, New Jewish Theatre, The Tennessee Williams Festival, in ballet class or running! She's thrilled to perform with her younger sisters, and be directed by her dad.
LAURIE MCCONNELL (Aunt Em) is happy to be here and glad you’re here, too! Recent credits include The Glass Menagerie (Amanda) at Bluff City Theatre, Miss Julie, Clarissa and John (Miss Julie, for which she received the Judy Award from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch) at the St. Louis Black Rep, Company (Joanne, for which she received Best Supporting Actress: St. Louis Theatre Critics Circle) at Insight Theatre Company and Gidion’s Knot (Heather) at St. Louis Actors Studio. Laurie sends love to her favorite Wizard, Alan
RICH PISARKIEWICZ (Uncle Henry/Emerald City Guard) Variety Children’s Theatre’s ninth season marks Rich’s fifth with the company; seen previously in The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, Oliver!, The Wizard of Oz and Peter Pan. Rich most recently performed in Newsies at The Muny. He has worked locally at the Fox Theatre, Shakespeare Festival, The Rep, The Black Rep, Stages and Opera Theatre of St. Louis. It’s great to be back with the wonderful Variety Kids! Special thanks to Jan, Lara and Greg!
ALLISON NEWMAN (Gulch/West Witch) is wickedly excited to be returning to Variety after performing in Beauty and the Beast (Silly Girl) and Mary Poppins (Mrs. Corry)! Select credits include voice over/ performance work with Emmy award-winning RWS and Associates, a reading of new musical Big Bucks: The Press Your Luck Scandal and others. She holds a BFA from Webster University and is a member of Actors' Equity. Allison lives in NYC. Allison sends love and appreciation to Lara, Jan and everyone here. Love and thanks to family and John.
ALAN KNOLL (Professor Marvel/Oz) is thrilled to again be part of Variety Children's Theatre. Previous Variety roles include Beauty and The Beast (Cogsworth), The Wizard of Oz (Professor Marvel/Wizard, 2011 production) and Peter Pan (Captain Hook). He most recently appeared at the Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre in Oklahoma! (Andrew Carnes) and returned to the role of Cogsworth in Beauty and the Beast. Thank you, Lara and Jan, for giving me a chance to work with my talented wife, Laurie McConnell, and of course to return to this wonderful group. Enjoy the show!
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Cast Who’s Who JULIE TABASH KELSHEIMER (Glinda) is thrilled to be returning to Variety Children’s Theatre! Julie is an active performer on opera, musical theatre, and concert stages. Most recently, she performed with Central City Opera, Union Avenue Opera, The Florentine Opera Company and Skylight Music Theatre, among others. Julie is also an Adjunct Professor of Voice at Webster University and St. Louis University, and a proud member of the American Guild of Musical Artists as well as the Actors’ Equity Association. http://www.julietabashkelsheimer.com
DREW HUMPHREY (Hunk/Scarecrow) is thrilled to return to VCT! He recently had the pleasure of playing Bert in Mary Poppins in ‘15 and Lumiere in Beauty & the Beast last year. Broadway: White Christmas (Cast Recording); New York/Tours: Of Thee I Sing (Encores!), 42nd Street (1st National), Lady Be Good (Encores! Cast Recording); Regional: Crazy for You (Bobby Child), Singin’ In The Rain (Cosmo), Cats (Skimbleshanks), A Chorus Line (Don). Special thanks to Jan and Lara!
MARTIN FOX (Hickory/Tin Man) is beyond honored to join the talented cast of Variety's production of The Wizard of Oz. Favorite past shows include She Loves Me (Georg), Company (Bobby), 1776 (John Adams), The Fantasticks (El Gallo), West Side Story (Tony), Falsettos (Whizzer), Thoroughly Modern Millie (Jimmy Smith), and Sweeney Todd (Tobias Ragg). He and his wife, Stephanie, live in Maryland Heights and are the loving parents to Moose and Sammy, two highly rambunctious beagles. BIG LOVE to his wife for letting him work on their anniversary. PATRICK BLINDAUER (Zeke/Lion) makes his Variety debut with The Wizard of Oz. Local projects include 42nd Street (The Muny), The World Begun (Shakespeare in the Streets), and The Rime of the Ancient Mariner (Upstream Theater). On-screen, he was featured in seven episodes of Strangers with Candy and had a speaking role in A Beautiful Mind. Patrick also constructs crosswords for places like The New York Times and his website: patrickspuzzles.com. He would like to dedicate his performance to Courage, in all its many forms.
NESSA (Toto) is a funny, energetic little girl, rescued by Bill Berloni through Cairn Terrier Rescue USA. She starred as Toto in the recent Walnut Street Theatre production of The Wizard of Oz and hopes to follow in the footsteps of cairn terriers before her, entertaining young and old in this classic story.
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Ensemble Cast Who’s Who LILLIAN AKEN (Ensemble) is from Murphysboro, IL, and trained at Alexandra School of Ballet, Tulsa Ballet Center for Dance Education, and Ballet Des Amériques. She had intensives with Milwaukee Ballet, Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, Michigan Ballet Academy and Lou Conte Scholarship Program. She is currently with The Big Muddy Dance Company, and this is her first time with VCT. She would like to thank her family and teachers.
GEOFFREY ALEXANDER (Nikko/ Ensemble) began his formal dance training at the late age of 20. He earned his BA in Theatre and Dance from Southern Illinois UniversityEdwardsville. In 2011, he joined The Big Muddy Dance Company family. Past performances with Variety Children’s Theatre include Peter Pan, The Little Mermaid, Mary Poppins, and Beauty and the Beast.
AUDREY BEYERSDORFER (Ensemble) is thrilled to be making her Variety debut! Credits include: The Lion King (Simba) at St. Teresa, Little Shop of Horrors (Chiffon) with Ignite Theater Company, Carrie! (Norma) at GCPA, and performances of The Nutcracker (Belleville School of Ballet). She studies voice from Jamie Eros, dance from Belleville School of Ballet and COCA, and acting from Peter Cocuzza. Many thanks to supporting family and friends!
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WILL BONFIGLIO (Ensemble) is thrilled to return to VCT for his fourth production. Credits include Old Wicked Songs (New Jewish Theatre), Grey Gardens (Max & Louie Productions) and Buyer & Cellar (Stray Dog Theatre), for which he won the St. Louis Theatre Circle Award for Outstanding Actor in a Comedy. A huge thanks to the Variety team for making this magic! HOPE BRAZEL (Ensemble) is thrilled to be making her Variety debut! Hope has been dancing for 14 years and performing for eight. Favorites include: Spamalot, The Addams Family, and Godspell. Shout out to my Mom, Logan and friends and a special thank you to everyone at Variety for giving me a wonderful opportunity.
DUSTIN CRUMBAUGH (Assistant Choreographer/Ensemble) This will be Dustin’s second Variety production as Assistant Choreographer. Dustin is happy to be in his seventh season with The Big Muddy Dance Company under the direction of Brian Enos, and enjoys teaching for several dance schools around the greater St. Louis area, as well as for Variety – The Children’s Charity of St. Louis. DENA DIGIACINTO (Ensemble) is thrilled to be a part of this beautiful production of The Wizard of Oz! Some favorite performing credits include Beauty and the Beast (Variety Children’s Theatre), A Chorus Line (Broadway revival), Joseph...Dreamcoat
Ensemble Cast Who’s Who and 9 to 5 the Musical (Stages St. Louis), Mary Poppins (John W. Engeman Theatre) and Evita (US tour). A big thank you to Jan, Lara, and Greg for this opportunity!
EILEEN ENGEL (Ensemble) is thrilled to be performing in her fourth Variety production! She holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Southeast Missouri State University. She has performed at Little Theatre on the Square, Stray Dog Theatre, R-S Theatrics, and McLeod Summer Playhouse. Credits include: Drood (Rose Budd), Sweeney Todd (Johanna), Thyrsis and Amaranth (Amaranth), A Chorus Line (Connie) and Spelling Bee (Marcy). JAMIE EROS (Ensemble) has been an active singer, performer, and teacher in the Midwest for nearly two decades. She spends most of her time teaching in her private studio in Belleville, IL and working with the awesome kids at St. Clare School in O'Fallon, IL.
BRANDON FINK (Ensemble) received his BFA in Dance Performance from the University of Central Oklahoma and later attended the ADF School as well as the River North Dance Chicago apprenticeship program. From 2011-2016, Brandon performed with MADCO. His choreography has been presented at various universities and festivals throughout the country. This is his second season with The Big Muddy Dance Company.
CHANDLER FORD (Ensemble) is excited for her second Variety production! She was seen last year as a Silly Girl in Beauty and the Beast. She holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Florida State University. Previous credits include: Ragtime, How to Succeed....Trying, Spring Awakening, Company (FSU), Legally Blonde and Hairspray (Circa '21). Much love to Mark, my family and MT '15! DAWN GILBERTSON (Ensemble) is thrilled to work with Variety again for her fifth season. Originally from Wisconsin, Dawn graduated from the University of Iowa. She's a Variety Women board member and former dancer with The Big Muddy Dance Company. Past performances include Bye Bye Birdie and King and I at The Muny. Love to my rock husband and munchkins.
COLE GUTMANN (Ensemble) is thrilled to make his VCT debut! Cole is a graduate of Millikin University, where he studied vocal performance and acting. Recent roles: Sweeney Todd (Anthony) at StrayDog Theatre, Company (Peter) at Insight Theatre and Spring Awakening (Melchior) with Alfresco Productions. Cole thanks his family, friends, and Vanessa, for their love and support throughout all his endeavors.
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Ensemble Cast Who’s Who NATHANAEL HIRST (Ensemble) is beyond thrilled to be making his Variety debut! He was last seen performing in the Six Flags St. Louis productions of That's Entertainment (Swing) and Dead Man's Party (Puppet Master). A big thank you to the team at Variety, Mom, Dad, BW coaches and family for the support and love. MITCHELL HOLSCLAW (Ensemble) is thrilled to be making his professional debut as part of this cast! He attends Webster Conservatory as a junior Musical Theatre major, and spent this past summer at the Great River Shakespeare Festival as an Actor Apprentice. Mitchell is an Eagle Scout, an avid juggler and is deeply grateful for his parents’ support through this field. God bless!
CALEB LONG (Ensemble) is very excited to be making his Variety debut!! Regional Credits include: Footloose (Willard Hewitt) and Ragtime (Ensemble). Others: Into the Woods (The Baker), West Side Story (Diesel), and Twelfth Night (Malvolio). He would like to thank his friends and family for constant support and Patti LuPone for constant inspiration! @calebdavidlong KAY LOVE (Ensemble) is happy to appear in her fifth VCT production. She is a Variety Woman, and helps raise money for therapy sessions. Kay sang with the St. Louis Symphony Chorus for 15 years, performed at Carnegie Hall five times and has performed in
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over 100 theatrical productions. Kay thanks Jan, Lara, Greg and the entire team for this opportunity.
SOPHIE MURK (Ensemble) is currently a senior at Webster Conservatory studying to receive a BFA in Musical Theatre. Recent credits include Mr. Burns: A Post Electric Play, and Slasher. Sophie also works as a teaching artist for Christian Youth Theater in Chicago, and is a certified fellow for Artists Striving to End Poverty. She is delighted and humbled to be making her VCT debut.
MIRANDA PAYNE (Dance Captain/ Ensemble) holds a BFA in Dance from Webster University. She is currently in her seventh season as a dancer with The Big Muddy Dance Company. She is thrilled to be returning to Variety Children’s Theatre for her fifth show as an ensemble performer and second show as Dance Captain. ERIN WARNER PRANGE (Ensemble) holds her BA in Dance and Spanish from Colorado State University and her MFA in Arts Management from Webster University. She currently is a dancer and Executive Director at The Big Muddy Dance Company. Erin is honored to perform this year in her fifth Variety production.
Ensemble Cast Who’s Who CORBYN SPRAYBERRY (Ensemble)
CAITLIN WITTY (Ensemble) is a
is thrilled to be working with the Variety family again this year! She is currently a senior Musical Theatre major at the Webster Conservatory here in St. Louis and will be graduating in May. Endless thanks to her family, friends and the fabulous Variety team!
junior at Webster Conservatory and is thrilled to join the Variety family! Favorite Credits: Eve Ensler/Debby Allen’s One Billion Rising (Principal Vocalist/Dancer); Dream Girls (St. Louis Black Rep); Les Miserables (Eponine); Camelot (Guenevere); Slasher (Hildy). 2016 National YoungArts Finalist. Let’s play and love, my friends! A huge thank you to a true wizard, Lara Teeter, and my incredible family.
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Ensemble Cast Who’s Who
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Lillian Aken
Geoffrey Alexander
Hope Brazel
Audrey Beyersdorfer
Will Bonfiglio
Dustin Crumbaugh
Dena DiGiacinto
Eileen Engel
Jamie Eros
Brandon Fink
Chandler Ford
Dawn Gilbertson
Cole Gutmann
Nathanael Hirst
Mitchell Holsclaw
Caleb Long
Ensemble Cast Who’s Who
Kay Love
Sophie Murk
Miranda Payne
Corbyn Sprayberry
Caitlin Witty
Erin Prange
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Production Team Executive Producer, Jan Albus Production Director & Choreographer, Lara Teeter Musical Director. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Greg Schweizer Associate Producer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mark Krupinski Assistant Director. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Larry D. Pry Production Stage Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Emilee Buchheit* Production Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tim Moore Scenic Designer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dunsi Dai Lighting Designer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Wylie Sound Designer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rusty Wandall Costume Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pete Messineo Wardrobe Master . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ray Martin Wardrobe Mistress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Janice Kemper Scenic Charge Artist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Scott Loebl Children's Program Manager. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Robin Diehl Assistant Choreographer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dustin Crumbaugh Dance Captain. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Miranda Payne Intern Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Katie An Siegel Intern Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jill Kranzberg Technical Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kendrick Lawson-Knight Master Props Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jay Shastri Master Props Carpenter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Greg Stone Hair/Wig Designer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Christopher Sifford Make-up Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kate Spaulding Assistant Stage Managers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gabby Galvan, Katie An Siegel Flying Supervisor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brad Allen Set Decorator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mary Senciboy Lighting Assistant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jessica Stevens Sound Assistant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Colin Marshall Child Assistants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mariah Broeker, Rachel Johnson, Grace Knight, Sophia Mulwa, Maggie O’Brian, Julia Roberts, JJ Shastri, Danielle Sutherland, Kate Warden Animal Director and Trainer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . William Berloni Signing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Eric Driskill *Actors' Equity Association
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Production Who’s Who JAN ALBUS (Executive Producer)
is now in her ninth year as executive producer of Variety Children’s Theatre. She has produced and directed over 300 special events including ballet, musical theater, operetta, and concerts. Her performing career includes 40 productions with the Muny; the St. Louis Civic Ballet; and the Florida Ballet Company. She holds a teaching degree and BA in French and English from St. Louis University, and a doctorate from the I.S.T.D., London, England. While teaching in the theater department at Webster University, she established the St. Louis Performing Arts Academy and the Westport Playhouse Dance Department. Jan founded St. Louis Performing Arts Productions and counts Bye Bye Birdie and Babes in Toyland as her favorites as producer with that company. At Variety, her position as CEO has utilized her background in theater, fundraising for children’s causes, and her marketing experience with national corporate sponsors at Del Wilbur and Associates. Since joining Variety in 1995, she has founded many programs including Variety’s Bikes for Kids, Adventure Camp, Variety Chorus, Variety Dance, Curtain Up Camp, Variety Children’s Theatre, Young Variety, Pedia Pals, TherHappy Kids, and the Dennis and Judith Jones Playground in Forest Park. She created Variety’s Runway Lights Fashion Show, and produced the Dinner With the Stars gala for 21 years. In 2011, Jan received the Women in Leadership Award from the St. Louis Empowerment Foundation. She is married to Larry, her mentor and inspiration in all endeavors, and is proud of her daughter Jacque, son Mike and his wife Annie, and two incredible grandsons Sam and Ben.
LARA TEETER (Director &
Choreographer) has performed,
directed, and choreographed for major regional theatre and opera houses nationwide. He is a Professor of Theatre and the Head of the Musical Theatre Program at the Webster University Conservatory of Theatre Arts. The Webster Conservatory of Theatre Arts is now celebrating it's 50th Anniversary and is proud to be an official partner of Variety. Lara has performed in six Broadway shows, including the revival of the Rodgers and Hart classic On Your Toes, for which he received a Tony nomination and Outer Critics Circle Award. Since 1990, Lara has appeared on The Muny stage in many shows: Singin’ In the Rain, The Wizard of Oz, Little Shop of Horrors, White Christmas, Hairspray, Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Bye, Bye Birdie, and most recently ALL SHOOK UP! For the Variety Children’s Theatre, he has directed The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, Oliver!, The Wizard of Oz, Annie, Peter Pan, The Little Mermaid, Mary Poppins, Disney's Beauty and the Beast, and he is thrilled to be involved with the remounting of this year's unique production of The Wizard of Oz! Lara also teaches various tap and audition workshops throughout the country, working with kids and teens ages 10 to 18. Here in St. Louis, he and his wife, Kristen, teach the "Beyond the Performance" workshops throughout the year, bringing in a wide variety of guest artists. They are the proud parents of Charlie, Elizabeth, Katherine and Maggie.
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Production Who’s Who GREG SCHWEIZER (Musical Director) is music director for
Variety Children’s Chorus, Visitation Academy, and Our Lady of Sorrows church. He is musical director/ arranger for Broadway star Ken Page, arranging Ken’s Page by Page CD, and has been musical director for Neal E. Boyd, 2008 winner of America’s Got Talent. He has accompanied Donald O’Conner, Tommy Tune, Bernadette Peters, and a host of other performers. As an educator, he received recognition from the Missouri Fine Arts Academy, was awarded the ISSL Teacher of Distinction Award, and the Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award.
MARK KRUPINSKI (Associate
Producer) has been a performer, choreographer and consultant for The Muny since 1973. Since 1984, Mark and his wife, Caren, have been the directors of Krupinski Academy of Dance. Mark is also the founder and artistic director of the American Dance Troupe. He has performed with Gene Kelly, Herschel Bernardi and Chita Rivera, and was an original member of the American Dance Machine in New York City. Mark served as an artist-in-residence at Webster University for over 10 years.
LARRY D. PRY (Assistant Director) has been working with
Variety Children’s Theatre for the last eight years. He has taught voice, piano, and musical theater for over 30 years. He is currently a faculty member at Webster University’s Conservatory for Theatre Arts. He music directs for Webster as well as many high schools in the St. Louis area. Larry is also a nationally recognized vocal coach, clinician, and accompanist. He was
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honored to be the assistant music director for the world premiere of Stephen Schwartz’ Children of Eden. He studied piano and voice at Webster University and Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.
EMILEE BUCHHEIT (Production Stage Manager) is thrilled to be returning to Variety for her fifth season. She previously stage managed Beauty and the Beast, Mary Poppins, Annie and The Wizard of Oz (2011). When not working at Variety, Emilee is a stage manager for The Repertory Theatre St. Louis and Shakespeare Festival St. Louis. Other stage management credits include The Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre, New Jewish Theatre, The Foolish Theatre Company (New York) and Little Theatre on the Square. Emilee is a proud graduate of the Conservatory for Theatre Arts at Webster University.
TIM MOORE (Production
Manager) Tim is honored to be working with Variety Children’s Theatre of St. Louis for the first time as Production Manager for The Wizard of Oz. Tim is the Theatre Operations Manager of the Skip Viragh Performing Arts Center at Chaminade College Preparatory School. He is also an adjunct faculty member at The Conservatory of Theatre Arts at Webster University, his alma mater. With the support of his wife and three children, Tim also enjoys working with several theatres around the city including The Improv Shop and The Muny.
DUNSI DAI (Scenic Designer) has designed Off-Broadway as well as at regional theatres across the country.
Production Who’s Who His set design for Mustard Seed Theatre’s Remnant received a Kevin Kline award in the category of Outstanding Scenic Design. Named Best Scenic Designer in St. Louis Post-Dispatch’s “2015 Go List.” Member of USA Local 829. Professor at Webster University’s Conservatory for Theatre Arts. On web at faculty. webster. edu/daidu.
JOHN WYLIE (Lighting
Designer) is excited to be working on
The Wizard of Oz. He has designed lights for all the Variety productions. John is the Head of Production Programs at Webster University where he teaches Technical Direction and Lighting. Locally, John has designed for The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, Metro Theatre Company, the St. Louis Black Rep and Shakespeare Festival St. Louis.
RUSTY WANDALL (Sound Designer) is thrilled to be returning
for his eighth year with Variety Children’s Theatre. He is the Head of Sound Design at Webster University and the Resident Sound Designer for the St Louis Rep. Rusty has worked with many companies in the St Louis Area, as well as across the country. He would like to thank God for countless blessings including his son Corey, Marian for her unending support and Zack for his endless enthusiasm.
NCAC Concert Artist singing Grand Opera with countless orchestras in countless cities. As a member of the New York City Opera Guild, Peter toured the country in principal roles in such shows as Die Fledermaus. Peter has starred in, directed and stagemanaged operas and musicals for most of the local universities, as well as the Kiel Opera House. In 1960, Peter became the wardrobe master/costume coordinator for The Muny, a role he retired from. During this time, he also served a 35-year tenure as a costume designer and wardrobe head for the Veiled Prophet organization. This is Pete’s eighth season with Variety Children’s Theatre.
RAY MARTIN (Wardrobe
Master) is the Wardrobe Master at The Muny. For many years, he was the Wardrobe Master and Wig Master for the St. Louis Ballet. In addition to his professional work, Ray has costumed shows for high schools, colleges and community theaters. He is now proud to be part of the Variety family.
PETER MESSINEO (Costume
Coordinator) has been associated
with The Muny for more than 64 years. He began his career as a member of the singing chorus. After years of performing on The Muny stage, Peter became a stage manager for many seasons. Outside of The Muny, Peter toured the country as a
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Production Who’s Who JANICE KEMPER (Wardrobe
Mistress) has filled this role with
Variety Children’s Theatre for eight years. Member, and past President, of Theatrical Wardrobe Local #805. A past wardrobe mistress with The Muny; has worked with all major theater companies in St. Louis.
SCOTT LOEBL (Scenic Charge
Artist) Scott Loebl is the charge artist
for the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis and also works on the paint crews for The Muny and Opera Theatre of St. Louis. He also designs and paints scenery for the Rep’s Imaginary Theatre Company and Winter Opera St. Louis. He is a proud member of United Scenic Artists Local 829 and serves as a trustee on their national executive board. Scott also teaches scene painting courses at Webster University and Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.
KATIE AN SIEGEL (Assistant
Stage Manager/Intern Manager) is thrilled to be back for her third Variety show. In addition to working on the show, this fall, she is lucky enough to be interning in the Variety offices. Katie An is majoring in Stage Management at Webster University and is looking forward to graduating in May.
JILL KRANZBERG (Intern Coordinator) has been with Variety
Children’s Theatre since the beginning. She has a BFA from Arizona State University, where she specialized in Children’s Theatre and Creative Dramatics. She received her Masters in Media from Webster University. She has taught drama to pre-schoolers up to senior citizens, including collegelevel classes. She has been in over two-dozen shows, a few feature films and various commercials. She has
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directed many shows, including those at The Theatre Guild of Webster Groves.
KENDRICK LAWSON-KNIGHT
(Technical Director) is a sophomore
Technical Direction major at Webster University and is very excited to be taking part in his first show at Variety! The Wizard of Oz holds a special place in his heart as it was his very first production when he was only five years old, marching in the Lollipop Guild. He hopes you enjoy the show!
JAY SHASTRI (Master Props Manager) This is Jay's ninth Variety
Children's Theatre production. When not here, he works for Ross & Baruzzini Engineers, The Muny and as Associate Entertainment Producer for America's Birthday Parade. Thanks Jan, Lara, Larry, Greg, and all at Variety, LOVE what we do, and LOVE you all! A big thanks to Jignasa, Anita and Neil!
GREG STONE (Master Props
Carpenter) has been working in theatre for more than 40 years. He has a special place in his heart for Variety as he worked the Variety Telethon for years. He would like to thank Jan for including him in this wonderful endeavor. The Variety Kids are amazing and he loves working with them.
CHRISTOPHER SIFFORD
(Hair/Wig Designer) is thrilled to be joining Variety for another amazing production! When he’s not behind the chair in the salon, Christopher divides his time amongst many creative outlets, whether styling backstage for the St. Louis Muny or designing hair for private parties to local fashion designers.
Production Who’s Who KATE SPAULDING (Make-up Designer) Kate is so excited to be
joining Variety Children’s Theatre for the fourth year. For five years, she has worked behind the chair as a hair and makeup artist. She spends her summers working with The Muny and currently works for Paul Mitchell the School St. Louis. It is such an honor to be invited back to work with such an incredible organization.
GABBY GALVAN (Assistant Stage Manager) is a sophomore Stage Management major at Webster University. Gabby is thrilled for this to be her first Variety show.
WILLIAM BERLONI (Animal
Director and Trainer) has trained animals for hundreds of Broadway, Off-Broadway, regional theatre, tours, television shows and movies. He was a 2011 Tony Honoree for Excellence in Theatre, 2017 Drama League’s Unique
Contribution to the Theatre and received the 2014 Outer Critics Circle Award for Special Achievement. Broadway credits: The Crucible, The Audience with Dame Helen Mirren, Living on Love, Bullets over Broadway, Lady Day at the Emerson Bar and Grill, Annie, A Christmas Story The Musical, Legally Blonde, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Joe Jurner’s Come and Gone, Camelot, Frankenstein, The First, Alice in Wonderland, Oliver!, Anything Goes, Nick and Nora, The Wiz, The Wizard of Oz, Dinner at Eight, Double Feature, The Woman in White, Awake and Sing and The Lieutenant of Inishmore. Mr. Berloni is also the Animal Director of the new musical Because of Winn Dixie. His were the first dogs to appear in a live production, including “Nana” in Peter Pan Live and “Toto” in The Wiz Live, both on NBC. Other television includes Power Billions, Sneaky Pete, Sesame Street, High Maintenance, and Mr. Robot.
SPECIAL THANKS TO: 88.1 KDHX The Chase Park Plaza Delta Gamma Center Destination Desserts ESM Marketing FOX 2/ KPLR 11 Hogan Trucking MindsEye The Muny Bob O'Loughlin
Gerry Love Opera Theater of St Louis Professional Wardrobe Dressers and Sewers Jack Rushen from Technical Productions, Inc. St Louis Post Dispatch University of Missouri-St Louis Webster University Serendipity Ice Cream Kansas City Costume Company
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The Performing Arts Fund for Variety Children
Paul and Andrew together at the cast party for OLIVER!
The A
Graham helps direct a VCT rehearsal of Annie
Joe & his friend Lily at the VCT rehearsal of The Wizard of Oz
the performing arts fund provides financial support to help children with special needs get the opportunity to participate in Variety Children’s Theatre productions. To experience the thrill of performance, the joy that theatre can elicit, the glow that comes with accomplishing new things. This fund was started as a fitting tribute to some very special kids who got to experience that thrill, that joy, that glow, before their lives ended way too soon. The world might be a stage, but Paul Marler, Andrew Marler, Graham Vogler, and Joseph Goldman were more than “merely players.” And your donation to The Performing Arts Fund for Variety Children is more than “merely a gift,” but one that honors, and extends, the legacies of these four boys.
To give a gift today use the envelope in this program or visit: www.helpavarietykid.org variety the children’s charity of st. louis
11840 Westline Industrial Dr, Suite 220 • St. Louis, MO 63146 314-720-7712 • www.helpavarietykid.org
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THIS PLAY HAS TWO DELIGHTFUL ACTS. Three, if you place a donation in the envelope enclosed. Tonight, when the curtain comes down, the Variety Kids involved in this production will be changed by the experience. They’ll be more confident, more sociable, more responsible. But it’s the theater– where there’s always another opening, another show, and another bunch of kids to help. So, please give what you can. Thank you. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer – 2009
Oliver! – 2010
Annie – 2012
Peter Pan – 2013
Mary Poppins – 2015
The Wizard of Oz – 2011
Little Mermaid – 2014
Beauty and the Beast – 2016
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Kids Ensemble Who’s Who
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Ryan Austin
Ellie Baclesse
Deanna Brooks
Holly Connor
Michael Curdt
Marcus Davis
Olivia Eaker
Carter Eiseman
Lacey Fowler
Nick George
Taylor Gilbert
Brielle Gilbertson
Tanner Gilbertson
Selah Harris
Caroline Joyce
Olivia Kallaos
Kids Ensemble Who’s Who
Gigi Koster
Charlie Mathis
Phoebe McFarland
Chase Miller
Kaitlyn Patrick
Morgan Patrick
Makenzie Ruebel
Maggie Teeter
Katherine Teeter
Lenore Upwood
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Teens Ensemble Who’s Who
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Jenna Balmer
Bella Behrle
Kara Bloom
Rachel Bloom
Mollie Carter
Ida Chen
Alex Eichholz
Maddie Hewgley
Brian Horton
Gracie Kelley
Adair Lindenmayer
Natalie McAtee
Blake Klenke
Peyton LaMartina
Sydney Mitchell
Bridget Moehlman
Teens Ensemble Who’s Who
Emily Moranville
Brendan Morris
Abbie Mueller
Natalie Scheers
Annie Williams
Trey Perlut
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Production Interns The production interns for The Wizard of Oz are teens who have attained valuable skills and hands-on theatrical experiences through Variety Children’s Theatre by working behind the scenes with professional directors and designers.
Andrew Adolphson Executive Producer Intern
Danielle Adolphson Stage Manager Intern
Reagan Austin Props intern
Taylor Branson Production Director/ Choreographer Intern
Megan Concagh Music Director Intern
Lily Crockett Props Intern
Caroline Eiseman Choreographer Intern
Gracie Gibson Executive Producer Intern
Jamazia Griffin Music Director Intern
Eddy Hahn Stage Manager Intern
Lana Hill Lighting Designer Intern
Meredith Hunt Costume Intern
Mia Maksimowicz Executive Producer Intern
Hannah Mayher Costume Intern
Sydney McClenning Scene Painting Intern
Maggie Stebelman Music Director Intern
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Christopher Sumner Production Director/ Choreographer Intern
PROUD TO SUPPORT VARIETY OF ST. LOUIS
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Congratulations to the cast and crew of The Wizard of Oz! 46
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Thank you, Variety, for helping children and families.
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Congratulations from the Hanger Clinic to the Variety Children’s Theatre for their wonderful production of Beauty and the Beast.
Hunter Engineering congratulates the 20+ Variety Kids in this year’s Cast and Crew
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Join Us for Our 50th Anniversary! The CONSERVATORY OF THEATRE ARTS at WEBSTER UNIVERSITY celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2018. It will be a year of memorable events, a bow to the past and spotlight to the future. Plan to attend a variety of performances throughout the year highlighted by a special Celebration Weekend April 20 - 22, 2018. To learn more about the Conservatory’s professional training program for acting, musical theatre, directing, theatre studies and dramaturgy, design, technical theatre and stage management, visit: webster.edu/conservatory.
Photo from a production of Macbeth
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