Mary Poppins Playbill from Variety Children's Theatre by Variety the Children's Charity of St. Louis

Variety Children’s Theatre presents

October 23–25, 2015 Touhill Performing Arts Center

A Musical based on the stories of P.L. TRAVERS and the WALT DISNEY FILM Original Music and Lyrics by RICHARD M. SHERMAN and ROBERT B. SHERMAN

Variety Children’s Theatre presents

It’s supercalifragilisticexpialidocious! letter from the executive producer Today you will be transported to an Edwardian time not unlike our own time when families need help in many ways when it comes to raising children. Oh, that we all could have a Mary Poppins to bring us the right medicine to cure all the challenges of child rearing! In my mind Mary is the embodiment of Variety. Swooping in to help children when all else fails, leaving when it’s time and returning whenever necessary. Variety helps children with disabilities as a virtual Mary Poppins. P.L. Travers wrote four books between 1935 and 1989. Walt Disney spent 20 years trying to convince her to allow him to make one of them into a movie. Mary Poppins was resplendent with its Disney animation and songs written by Robert and Richard Sherman. Walt’s favorite song was “Feed the Birds” which articulates something essential to this story and to us all—small gestures of kindness rather than monetary transaction is what fills our lives with joy and meaning. The movie opened in 1965, the same year Dick Van Dyke who played Bert in the movie, suggested that Mary Poppins would be a successful stage show. Finally, in 1993 Cameron Macintosh met P. L. Travers and convinced her that her books could be presented live in a stage production. Thomas Schumacher and Cameron Macintosh co-produced the Broadway production and George Stiles and Anthony Drewe wrote additional new songs for the show including “Practically Perfect” and what all of us at Variety call our mantra, “Anything Can Happen If You Let It.” The rest of it is history including the first professional performance of Mary Poppins with a full children’s ensemble, that’s us! Cheerio! Jan Albus

executive producer,

Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis

A Musical based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney Film Starring

elizabeth derosa* drew humphrey*

gary glasgow* leah berry* zoe vonder haar* shawn bowers* elise labarge kay love whit reichert* fiona scott phoenix lawson With

gerry love taylor pietz geoffrey alexander terry meddows* liam johnson allison newman* mark saunders lauren lenke michael dewar katie miller eileen engel ryan jacobs rachel goldman kelly bitzer will bonfield dustin crumbaugh jack erbs dawn gilbertson austin jacobs miranda payne erin prange chris reifsteck mary elizabeth stephens Original Music and Lyrics by

richard m. sherman and robert b. sherman Book by

julian fellows New Songs and Additional Music and Lyrics by

george stiles and anthony drewe Co-created by

cameron mackintosh Directed and Choreographed by

lara teeter

Musical Director/Conductor

greg schweizer

Associate Producer mark krupinski

Scenic Designer dunsi dai

Lighting Design john wylie

Sound Design rusty wandal

Production Stage Manager emilee buchheit*

Costume Design kansas city costume co.

Production Manager sean savoie

Aerodynamics flying by foy

Executive Producer

jan albus

Mary Poppins is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MIT. 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019. Phone: 212-541-4684 | Fax: 212-397-4684 | www.mtishows.com *Members of Actors Equity Association, The Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States

Who’s Who at Variety — variety board of directors — Larry Otto, Chairman Steve Crimmins, Vice Chairman Marilyn Fox, Vice Chairman Thelma Steward, Vice Chairman Penny Pennington, Secretary

The Story of Mary Poppins

Leslie D. Wilson, Treasurer

Mark Abels Greg Boyce Joe Burgess Mark Burkhart Bill Burnes Scott Bush Cathy Dunkin Ray Farris Cheri Fromm Steve Gross Ray Gruender David Hogan Nevada A. Kent, IV J. Christopher Kerckhoff, Jr. Adam Ketterer Lee C. Kling

Patricia Kopetz Mark Koritz Nancy Kranzberg Patrick Larmon Davida Layer Mike Lefton Danny Ludeman Ridley Pearson Lucia Rodriguez Steve Schankman Bevis Schock Kevin Short Kim Springer Michael Staenberg Beth Stroble

based on the timeless disney film that introduced the world to the chairman emeritus David Steward

honorary life members: Kimmy Brauer William H. T. Bush Nancy Diemer Cliff Eason Margie Imo Chip Rosenbloom Ozzie Smith

House Rules — variety staff —

Jan Albus Chief Executive Officer

Jean Larson Steck Communications Director

Julie Hankley Program Manager

Brian Roy Chief Operating Officer

Misty Burton Health Services Manager

Justin Leibrecht Event Coordinator

Christina Altholz Chief Financial Officer

Wes Edwards Major Gifts Officer

Tom Remes Communications Manager

Barb Kramer Program Director

Janna Greenwood Database Manager

Jamie Sheehan Graphics Manager

Julie Probst Special Events Director

Patty Haeffner Executive Assistant

Alexandra Santacroce Gifts Officer

Linda Sanders Development Director

Karen Haglin Account Manager

Carolyn Smith Health Services Associate

word “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” Mary Poppins brings a surplus of joy and wonder to the Variety Children’s Theatre stage. Mary Poppins boasts a cast of St. Louis’ top theatrical talents and a children’s ensemble featuring kids of all ability levels. Every year, Variety Children’s Theatre selects a musical that provides wonderful entertainment alongside a powerful message for families to take home. For all its rollicking adventures and musical numbers, Mary Poppins is the story of a father learning to love his children as they are and see the world through their eyes. Mary Poppins opens the doors for this through magic and sublime universal _____________. For Variety, this is an incredibly touching narrative that supports our mission of helping kids with disabilities, who often see the world in different ways. Instead of dismissing them, we all learn and grow more by meeting these children on their terms. It doesn’t take a magical nanny to teach us that.

• 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!—

STARLIGHT FOUNDING SPONSOR Ken & Nancy Kranzberg ken and nancy kranzberg

have worked 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 the 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 sixth year, VCT has been funded each year 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.

STARLIGHT SPONSOR David & Thelma Steward david and thelma steward

are among our community’s most devoted ambassadors for special children, 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. David, a former Variety Man of the Year, served four years as president of the Variety Board of Directors before being named Chairman Emeritus. Thelma is serving her fourth term on the board and is gearing up for her seventh 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. Together, David and Thelma have provided the leadership and support to lift Variety to new heights, as the organization has raised more than $33 million to help local children with disabilities since their first year of involvement in 2000.

STARLIGHT SPONSOR Michael & Noémi Neidorff noémi & michael 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. Noémi is currently a member of Variety’s Board of Directors and the couple has a named endowment for Variety Adventure Camp. Last year, 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 in town 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 such to have such a mighty company and couple in our corner.

STARLIGHT SPONSOR Terry & Sally Schnuck terry and sally schnuck

made their grand debut as Starlight Sponsors at last year’s Variety Children’s Theatre production of Peter Pan, and we’re proud to enjoy their support once again. Seeing previous VCT productions helped them to fall in love with the program, but Terry says his connection with Variety goes far deeper than that. “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. I was quite familiar with the Variety Cash for Kids program,” Terry said. As an accomplished Broadway producer, Terry is sincerely vested in helping to give children of all abilities the opportunity to shine on stage. “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. 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 said. Among Terry’s most recent Broadway producer credits are a revival of You Can’t Take It With You, Beautiful: The Carol King Musical and The Gershwins’ Porgy & Bess, a show whose recent national tour made a celebrated stop at The Muny this summer.

STARLIGHT SPONSORS Ron and 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,” says Cheri. Ron and Cheri also have a personal investment in VCT: their child Dawn Gilbertson is a dancer in tonight’s show, and was a cast member in our past productions of The Little Mermaid and Peter Pan. Beyond theatre, Ron and Cheri are year-round supporters of Variety Events and the “Kids on the Go” mobility program, and Cheri currently serves on the Variety Board of Directors.

WE CARE about a Healthy Future.

We are a proud to support Variety the Children's Charity

Patron Supporters

Corporate Partners

Spoonful of Sugar Patrons

u.s. bank’s commitment to invest in innovative programs which 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 will 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!

Merri & Mark Abels Liz & Dave Austin Mary & Bob Ciapciak Mary Suzanne & Fess Crockett Marilyn & Sam Fox

Dr. and Mrs. John Hartweger Linda & Jesse Hunter Judy Jehling Jennifer & William Lindenmayer Marcelle & Ridley Pearson

Poppins' Patrons Sandra Buschmann Linda & Cliff Eason Al Kent

Kristi & Bill Peterson Gladys Stannard

VIP Reception Sponor Weissman Theatrical

Supercalifragilistic Patron Lisa & Greg Boyce Dr. and Mrs. Vic Cleaver National Endowment for the Arts RAC

US Bank Carol & Tom Voss

SPECIAL THANKS TO: National Endowment for the Arts National Endowment for the Arts National Endowment for the Arts National Endowment for the Arts National Endowment for the Arts National Endowment for the Arts National Endowment for the Arts National Endowment for the Arts National Endowment for the Arts 12

National Endowment for the Arts National Endowment for the Arts National Endowment for the Arts National Endowment for the Arts

centene believes that through the arts we help strengthen the culture and enrichment of our community. Through its donations to organizations in the arts, Centene not only sustains the on-going tradition of the arts, but also paves the way for future generations to experience them. As exemplified by the Centene Center for Arts and Education in Grand Center and numerous other contributions to the local arts community, Centene continues to support the vibrant creativity of St. Louis. Centene is also one of Variety’s highest level supporters, and we are overjoyed to introduce our partners at Centene as proud sponsors of Variety Children’s Theatre. world wide technology, inc.

(WWT) is a long-term supporter of Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis and Variety Children’s Theatre. Dedicated to supporting the community and non-profit organizations who work to broaden opportunities and increase the potential for all individuals, WWT is fully aligned with Variety’s mantra of “I CAN!” and honored to play a role in bringing this year’s inclusive production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid to the stage for everyone to enjoy.

Scenes & Musical Numbers

ACT 1

ACT 2

Scene 1: Cherry Tree Lane — Rooftop, Street, Parlor

Prologue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bert Cherry Tree Lane (Part 1) . . . . . . . . . . Winifred, Mrs. Brill, Jane, Micheal, Roberson Ay, George The Perfect Nanny . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jane, Michael Cherry Tree Lane (Part 2) . . . . . . . . . Winifred, Mrs. Brill, Jane, Michael, Robertson Ay, George

Scene 1: Brimstone and Treacle — Street, Parlor

Cherry Tree Lane (Reprise) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mrs. Brill, Robertson Ay, Jane, Michael, Winifred, George Brimstone and Treacle (Part 1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Miss Andrew Scene 2: Let’s Go Fly a Kite — Park

Let’s Go Fly a Kite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bert, Park Keeper, Michael, Jane Kite Flyers, Mary Poppins

Scene 2: Mary’s Arrival — Parlor

Scene 3: Good For Nothing — Park

Scene 3: Practically Perfect — Nursery

Good for Nothing/Being Mrs. Banks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . George, Winifred

Practically Perfect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mary Poppins, Jane, Michael

Scene 4: Winifred Despairs — Park

Scene 4: Jolly Holiday — Park All Me Own Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bert

Brimstone and Treacle (Part 2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Miss Andrew, Mary Poppins

Jolly Holiday . . . . . . . . . .Bert, Jane, Michael, Neleus, Mary Poppins & Ensemble Scene 5: Let’s Hope She Will Stay — Parlor Let’s Hope She Will Stay. . . . . . George, Winifred, Jane, Michael, Roberson Ay, Winifred Scene 6: Spoonful of Sugar — Street, Kitchen

Wind Do Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bert A Spoonful of Sugar . . . . Mary Poppins, Jane, Michael, Robertson Ay, Winifred Spoonful (Playoff) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Winifred Scene 7: The Bank — Bank

Precision and Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . Clerks, Chairman, Von Hussler, Northbrook A Man Has Dreams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .George

Scene 5: Brimstone and Treacle (Revisited) — Parlor Scene 6: George Returns — Parlor

Practically Perfect (Reprise) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jane, Michael, Mary Poppins Scene 7: I’ll Stay ‘Til the Chain Breaks — Nursery Scene 8: Step In Time — Roof, Nursery, Parlor

Step in Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bert, Michael, Jane, Sweeps, Mary Poppins Scene 9: A Man Has His Dreams — Parlor

A Man Has His Dreams (Reprise)/A Spoonful Of Sugar (Reprise) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . George, Bert Scene 10: Anything Can Happen, Part 1 — Nursery

Feed the Birds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bird Woman, Mary Poppins, Ensemble

Anything Can Happen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mary Poppins, Jane, Michael, Winifred, Bird Woman, Board of Directors

Scene 9: Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious — Park

Scene 11: Anything Can Happen, Part 2 — Cathedral Steps, Bank

Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mary Poppins, Bert, Jane, Michael, Mrs. Corry, Customers Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious (Reprise)/ The Winds May Blow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bert, Customers

Give Us the Word . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .George Scene 12: Anything Can Happen, Part 3 — Park, Heavens

Scene 10: Bad News — Street, Parlor

A Spoonful of Sugar (Reprise) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mary Poppins

Scene 8: Feed the Birds — Cathedral Steps

Twists and Turns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bert Scene 11: Playing the Game — Nursery

Playing the Game . . . Mary Poppins, Valentine, Doll, Teddy Bear, Punch, Toys

Anything Can Happen . . . . . . . . . Mary Poppins, Bert, Jane, Michael, Ensemble Scene 13: I Love You Mary Poppins — Park Scene 14: Family Life — Nursery

Finale. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Company

Scene 12: Chim Chiminey — Roof

Chim Chim Chere-ee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bert, Mary Poppins 14

Cast In order of appearance

WWT IS PROUD TO SUPPORT VARIETY THE CHILDREN’S CHARITY OF ST. LOUIS AND VARIETY’S CHILDREN’S THEATRE.

Bert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Drew Humphrey* George Banks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gary Glasgow* Winifred Banks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Leah Berry* Jane Banks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Fiona Scott Michael Banks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Phoenix Lawson Katie Nanna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Taylor Pietz Policeman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Michael Dewar Miss Lark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Taylor Pietz Admiral Boom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Whit Reichert* Mrs. Brill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Zoe Vonder Haar* Robertson Ay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Shawn Bowers* Mary Poppins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Elizabeth DeRosa* Park Keeper. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mark Saunders Neleus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Geoffrey Alexander♦ Queen Victoria. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Eileen Engel Bank Chairman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Whit Reichert* Miss Smythe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lauren Lenke Von Hussler. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Gerry Love Northbrook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Terry Meddows* Bird Woman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Kay Love Mrs. Corry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Allison Newman* Fannie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rachel GoldmanW Annie. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Eileen Engel Valentine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Liam JohnsonW Mr. Punch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Michael DewarW Doll . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Katie MillerW Teddy Bear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ryan JacobsW Miss Andrew. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Elise LaBarge

adult ensemble: Geoffrey Alexander♦, Kelly Bitzer♦, Will Bonfiglio, Dustin Crumbaugh♦,

World Wide Technology, Inc. (WWT) is dedicated to supporting the community and non-proﬁt organizations who work to broaden opportunities and increase the potential for all individuals. WWT is fully aligned with Variety’s mantra of “I CAN!” and honored to play a role in bringing this year’s exclusive production of The Little Mermaid to the stage for everyone to enjoy! www.wwt.com 60 WELDON PARKWAY

. ST. LOUIS, MO 63043 . 800.432.7008 . www.wwt.com

Michael DewarW, Eileen Engel, Jack Erbs, Dawn Gilbertson♦, Rachel GoldmanW, Austin JacobsW, Ryan JacobsW, Liam JohnsonW, Lauren Lenke, Katie MillerW, Miranda Payne♦, Taylor Pietz, Erin Prange♦, Chris Reifsteck, Mark Saunders, Mary Elizabeth Stephens. kids ensemble: Reagan Austin, Ryan Austin, Zoe Browning, Mollie Carter, Lily Crockett, Olivia Eaker, Susannah Egley, Carter Eiseman, Nick George, Meredith Gerard, Selah Harris, Julia Hartweger, Lilly Kanterman, Sarah Kaul, Gracie Kelley, Peyton LaMartina, Isabella Leonard, Lily McDonald, Phoebe McFarland, Kaitlyn Patrick, Trey Perlut, Ronan Ryan, Autumn Sprous Johnson, Charlie Teeter, Katherine Teeter, Annie Williams. teen ensemble: Andrew Adolphson, Joel Breeden, Molly Carl, Grace Clark, Meghan Concagh, Jonah Darian, Jennifer Egley, Caroline Eiseman, Gracie Gibson, Eddy Hahn, Audrianna Hebron, Sullivan Hogan, William Blake Klenke, Adair Lindenmayer, Lily Manning, Morgan McDonald, Sydney Mitchell, Emily Moranville, Brendan Morris, Cara Palombo, Caroline Reifsteck, Natalie Scheers, Luke Wilmes. orchestra singers: Joy Boland, Jessica Cissell, Jamie Eros, Luke Harris, Andrew Kuhlman, Shawn Leonard, Matt Pentecost, Emma Price, Darrius Roberts, Julie Tabash Kelsheimer. *Actors Equity Association | W Webster University’s Conservatory for Theatre Arts ♦ Big Muddy Dance Co.

Cast Who’s Who

Geoffrey Alexander♦ (Neleus)

Leah Berry* (Winifred Brooks)

Shawn Bowers* (Robertson Ay)

Elizabeth DeRosa* (Mary Poppins)

Terry Meadows* (Northbrook)

Katie Miller W (Doll)

Allison Newman* (Mrs. Corry)

Taylor Pietz (Katie Nanna/ Miss Lark)

Micheal DeWarW (Policeman/Mr. Punch)

Eileen Engel (Queen Victoria/ Annie)

Gary Glasgow* (George Banks)

Rachel GoldmanW (Fannie)

Whit Reichert* (Admiral Boom/ Bank Manager)

Mark Saunders (Park Keeper)

Fiona Scott (Jane Banks)

Zoe Vonder Haar* (Mrs. Brill)

Drew Humphreys (Bert)

Ryan Alexander Jacobs (Teddy Bear)

Liam Johnson W (Valentine)

Elise LaBarge (Miss Andrew)

Phoenix Lawson (Michael Banks)

Lauren Lenke (Mrs. Smythe)

Kay Love (Bird Woman)

Gerry Love (Von Hussler)

*Actors Equity Association | W Webster University | ♦Big Muddy Dance Co. 18

*Actors Equity Association | W Webster University | ♦Big Muddy Dance Co. 19

Cast Who’s Who

geoffrey alexander (Neleus) began his formal dance training at the late age of 20. He earned his BA in Theatre and Dance from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville. In 2011 he helped found The Big Muddy Dance Company. Past performances with Variety Children’s Theatre include Peter Pan and The Little Mermaid.

leah berry* (Winifred Banks) is thrilled to be a part of the amazing work being done at Variety! Favorite credits include: Beauty and the Beast (Belle), The Sound of Music (Maria), The Music Man (Marian) and Make Me a Song. My performance is dedicated to my sister, Katie. I love you, Babuh!

shawn bowers* (Robertson Ay) is the Thelma Steward Endowed Artist and is thrilled to be back at Variety Children’s Theatre, where he previously appeared in The Little Mermaid (Sebastian). Most recently, he was seen in The Full Monty at Stages St. Louis. Other credits include the Muny productions of Beauty and the Beast, Grease, and The Addams Family. Also: Rent (Benny), Parade (Newt Lee/Riley), Godspell (John the Baptist/Judas). He would like to thank Variety. And, his supportive family and friends. elizabeth derosa* (Mary Poppins) is excited to be making her Variety Children’s Theatre debut in this joyful family musical! Broadway: Mary Poppins (ensemble, US/ perf Mary Poppins); National Tours: My Fair Lady; Regional: Fiddler On The Roof (Hodel) at Goodspeed Musicals, Mary Poppins (Mary Poppins) at Arkansas Rep. I love this show and I feel very fortunate to be here in St. Louis performing it with such a special 20

organization. BFA, Carnegie Mellon. www. BroadwayDemo.com/ElizabethDeRosa

michael dewar (Policeman/Mr. Punch) is making his Variety debut! Regional credits include:Don Lockwood in Singin’ in the Rain (NGTC); Jack Worthing in The Importance of Being Earnest and John Truitt in Meet Me in St. Louis (Ozark Actors Theatre); Rudolph in The Matchmaker (Hope Summer Repertory Theatre). BFA, Webster Conservatory. www.michael-dewar.com eileen engel (Queen Victoria/Annie)

is thrilled to return to Variety after performing in VCT’s production of Annie (Cecille). She holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Southeast Missouri State University. Other favorite credits: Stray Dog Theatre’s Drood (Rosa Bud), Evil Dead (Linda), World Premier: Spellbound! A Musical Fable (Koko), and Cabaret (Frenchie).

gary glasgow* (George Banks) is delighted to be returning to Variety after appearing in their inaugural production, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. Locally, he has worked in over 35 productions at The Muny, and has been a company member of the Shakespeare Festival of St. Louis for twelve seasons. rachel goldman (Fannie) is so

thankful to work with these amazing kids in Variety Children’s Theatre once again. Past credits include HONK! (choreographer), Jesus Christ Superstar (National Youth Arts nominated choreographer), Legally Blonde (asst. choreographer), and The Drowsy Chaperone (choreographer). Thank you Lara Teeter for believing in me, and Mom, Dad, and Ben for their never-ending love and support.

Cast Who’s Who

drew humphrey (Bert) is thrilled to

make his Variety debut! Broadway: White Christmas( Cast Recording); New York/ Tours: Of Thee I Sing (Encores!), 42nd Street (1st National); Regional: Crazy for You ( Bobby Child), Singin’ In The Rain(Cosmo), Cats (Skimbleshanks), A Chorus Line (Don). Thanks to his wonderful friends and family for their overwhelming support.

ryan alexanderjacobs (Teddy

Bear) is thrilled to join Variety for Mary Poppins. Past credits include Antony & Cleopatra (Shakespeare Festival St. Louis). A Midsummer Night’s Dream (The Rep St. Louis), Mary Poppins (Grandstreet Theatre) and Kissless (NYMF). “Cogito Ergo Sum.” Love to family and friends. Proud Senior at Webster Conservatory.

liam johnson (Valentine) is a third-year Musical Theatre major at Webster Conservatory, as well as a graduate of the Humphrey’s School of Musical Theatre and The Performing Arts Project. Performance credits: A Chorus Line (Al), Tibbits Opera House; Legally Blonde (Kiki); VOTE! A New Musical, Theatre Under The Stars; HONK!; Spring Awakening, Webster Conservatory. Choreography: My Mother’s Lesbian Jewish Wiccan Wedding, The New Jewish Theatre; Emperor’s New Clothes, St. Louis Repertory Theatre’s Imaginary Theatre Company; Cabaret, Masquerade Theatre. Love to KK, Mom, and Dad.

elise labarge (Miss Andrew) is a teaching and performing artist who grew up in St. Louis. She moved to Chicago three years ago after playing the Wicked Witch in Variety’s production of The Wizard of

Oz, and is so very pleased to be part of this year’s production. When Elise isn’t singing and acting, she is leading elementary school residencies with the Lyric Opera of Chicago, Chicago Public Schools and Chicago Opera Playhouse.

phoenix lawson (Michael Banks)

is excited to be working with Variety! Muny credits: Holiday Inn (Charlie), Billy Elliot (tall/posh boy), Oklahoma (ensemble), Seussical (ensemble); Arrow Rock Lyceum’s The Wizard of Oz (Lollipop guild/flying monkey); other regional credits: Willy Wonka (Charlie), Beauty and The Beast (Chip), The Snow Queen (Kai), A Christmas Carol (Tiny Tim), The Little Mermaid (Flounder). Many thanks to family, friends and teachers for all their support.

lauren lenke (Mrs. Smythe)is thrilled to be back at the Touhill with Variety. Previous VCT credits include The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Little Mermaid. Many thanks to Lara, Greg, Jan, the whole Variety family, and Mom and Dad. kay love (Bird Woman) is ecstatic to be in her fourth Variety Children’s Theatre production, having appeared as Mrs. Harper in The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, Mrs. Pugh/ Boylan Sister in Annie and Liza in Peter Pan. She participates with Variety Women, and thanks the audience for supporting this wonderful organization.

Cast Who’s Who

gerry love (Von Hussler) is back on the Variety stage for his third production, joining his beautiful wife, Kay. Gerry also contributes to the Variety experience as one of our talented photographers, documenting the experiences of our Variety Kids in all kinds of settings. He invites you all to be Variety supporters. terry meddows* (Northbrook)

is thrilled to be making his Variety Children’s Theatre Debut. St. Louis credits include shows with The New Jewish Theatre, Upstream Theatre, St. Louis Actor’s Studio, Shakespeare Festival St. Louis, Mustard Seed Theatre, HotCity Theatre, Echo Theatre Company, That Uppity Theatre Company, New Line Theatre, Theater Factory, and The Goldenrod Showboat. Terry is a St. Louis Theater Circle Award winner for Best Actor in a Comedy for his performance as Vladimir in Waiting for Godot with St. Louis Actors’ Studio. Terry is a proud member of Actor’s Equity.

katie miller (Doll) is thrilled to be

making her Variety Theatre debut. Originally from Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Katie is currently studying Musical Theatre at Webster University where she hopes to achieve her BFA this coming May. Katie was most recently seen as Cathy Hiatt in Webster Conservatory’s production of The Last Five Years.

allison newman* (Mrs. Corry) is

tickled pink to be making her debut with Variety! Born and raised in Oklahoma City, she got her BFA in Musical Theatre at Webster University. Allison has performed in shows all over the country and now lives in New York City. Thanks and love to Lara, her family, and John. For Mema.

taylor pietz (Katie Nanna/Miss Lark) has worked all over St. Louis with Stages St. Louis, New Line Theatre, St. Louis Actors’ Studio and many more. Past credits include: Evita (Eva Peron), the regional premiere of Cry-Baby (Allison VW), Oliver! (Nancy), Seminar (Kate), and Our Town (Emily Webb). She is currently working on her first album. Her single “Color Me” can be found on iTunes, Amazon, and YouTube. For more info visit www.taylorpietz.com. whit reichert* (Admiral Boom/Bank Manager) is extremely happy and proud to return for his sixth show with Variety Children’s Theatre. His other shows with Variety were Oliver! (Mr. Sowerberry), The Wizard of Oz (Cowardly Lion), Annie (Mr. Bundles and others), Peter Pan (Smee) and last year’s The Little Mermaid (Chef Louie.) A proud member of Actor’s Equity for 40 years, Whit has been seen at The Muny, The Black Rep, Stages St. Louis, Insight Theatre, The St. Louis Actors’ Studio, The Shakespeare Festival of St. Louis and 26 plays at The Rep. He resides in St. Louis with his lovely wife, director/choreographer Millie Garvey. mark saunders (Park Keeper) is thrilled to be doing his first show with Variety. Mark was last seen in Mary Poppins with West Virginia Public Theatre (WVPT). Mark studied in the BFA Musical Theatre program at Lindenwood University. He wants to thank his family and friends for their love and support.

Cast Who’s Who

fiona scott (Jane Banks) is honored

to return to Variety Children’s Theatre, where she was in The Wizard of Oz (Lollipop Guild Munchkin) and Annie (Smile Chorus). Fiona performed at the Kansas City Starlight Theatre in Mary Poppins (Jane Banks) this past summer and in The Sound of Music (Brigitta) the year before. She has also performed at The Muny, Opera Theatre of St. Louis, and Stray Dog Theatre. Fiona’s ideal Jolly Holiday includes swimming and attempting daring feats on her scooter and pogo stick.

zoe vonder haar* (Mrs. Brill) is thrilled to be back with Variety after playing Aunt Polly in The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Mrs. Sowerberry in Oliver! This summer Zoe appeared in My Fair Lady, Into the Woods and Oklahoma at The Muny and The Full Monty at Stages St. Louis. She performs throughout the year at the Sheldon Concert Hall and teaches dance, musical theater and choreographs at several area schools. *Actors Equity Association

Orchestra Music Director & Conductor Reed l Reed ll Reed ll Cello French Horn l French Horn ll Trumpet l Trumpet ll Trombone l Trombone ll Percussion l Percussion ll Guita Keyboard l Keyboard l Bass

greg schweizer maggie mccallie jan parkes elsie parker gary lee scott hamman allison felter robert souza randy holmes dan potter steve lawson jerry bolen kevin gianino dan rubright carolbeth true diane ceccarini bob lowe

All orchestra players are members of Musicians’ Local 2-197

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WEBSTER UNIVERSITY, founded in 1915 with its home campus based in St . Louis, Missouri, USA, celebrates its Centennial date — the laying of the Webster Hall cornerstone - on November 1, 2015. Musical Director Greg Schweizer condusting the Variety orchestra UNITED STATES • SWITZERLAND • AUSTRIA • THE NETHERLANDS • UNITED KINGDOM • CHINA • THAILAND • GHANA • GREECE

27 EC-2838 WEb U_2015 VCT.indd 1

8/12/15 12:09 PM

Kids Ensemble Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Who

Reagan Austin

Ryan Austin

Zoe Browning

Mollie Carter

Isabella Leondard

Lily McDonald

Phoebe McFarland

Kaitlyn Patrick

Lily Crockett

Olivia Eaker

Susannah Egley

Carter Eiseman

Arielle Pedersen

Trey Perlut

Ronan Ryan

Autumn Sprous Johnson

Nick George

Meredith Gerard

Selah Harris

Julia Hartweger

Charlie Teeter

Katherine Teeter

Annie Williams

Lilly Kanterman

Sarah Kaul

Grace Kelley

Peyton LaMarina

The Performing Arts Fund for Variety Children

THIS PLAY HAS TWO DELIGHTFUL ACTS.

“The happiness I saw in him that day was the greatest gift anyone could have given me.”

Three, if you place a donation in the envelope enclosed.

—Rebecca Goldman

Joseph and his friend Lily

the performing arts fund provides financial support to give children with disabilities the opportunity, to participate in Variety Children’s Theatre productions, to experience the thrill of performance and the joy that a theatre program can bring, and igniting the glow of amazing new accomplishments. One of the children who benefited from this fund was Joseph Goldman. His mother, Rebecca, wrote to say that the auditions for Mary Poppins were one of the highlights of Joseph’s last few weeks. Describing him racing around the audition room, his mother said she “hadn’t seen him smile like that in many months. The happiness I saw in him that day was the greatest gift anyone could have given me.” There’ll never be another Joseph, but there are other kids we hope to make happy through continuing donations to the Performing Arts Fund for Variety Children.

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer –2009

Oliver! –2010

The Wizard of Oz –2011

Annie –2012

Peter Pan –2013

Little Mermaid –2014

To give a gift today use the envelope in this program or visit: www.helpavarietykid.org variety the children’s charity of st. louis

2200 Westport Plaza Dr., Suite 306 • St. Louis, MO 63146 314-720-7712 • www.helpavarietykid.org 30

Teens Ensemble Who’s Who

Andrew Adolphson

Joel Breeden

Molly Carl

Grace Clark

Sydney Mitchell

Emily Moranville

Brendan Morris

Cara Palombo

Meghan Concagh

Jonah Darian

Jennifer Egley

Caroline Eiseman

Caroline Reifsteck

Natalie Scheers

Annie Williams

Luke Wimes

Gracie Gibson

Eddy Hahn

Audrianna Hebron

Sullivan Hogan

Lily Manning

Morgan McDonald

William Blake Kienke Adair Lindenmayer

Teens Ensemble Who’s Who

Production Team Executive Producer, Jan Albus Production Director & Choreographer, Lara Teeter Musical Director/Conductor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Greg Schweizer Associate Producer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mark Krupinski Assistant Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Larry Pry Stage Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Emilee Buchheit* Production Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sean Savoie Scenic Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dunsi Dai Lighting Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Wylie Sound Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rusty Wandall Costume Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pete Messineo Scenic Charge Artist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Scott Loebl Wardrobe Master . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ray Martin Children’s Program Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barb Kramer Children’s Program Manager. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Julie Hankley Children’s Acting Coach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jill Kranzberg Assitant to the Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Elizabeth Teeter Assistant Choreographer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rachel Goldman Intern Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marty Strohmeyer Technical Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jake Greene Prop Master . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Greg Stone Assistant PropMasters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kat McPhail, Jay Shastri Wig Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cristy Sifford Assistant Stage Managers . . . . . . . . Joy Addler, Katie An Siegel, Brendan Woods Wardrobe Mistress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Janice Kemper Child Assistants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alyssa Bengston , Nicholas Brown, Abby Eisen, . . . . . . . . . .Sara Kohnen, Joan Landholt, Story Pearson , Julia Roberts, JJ Shastri, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kate Warden Assistant Lighting Designers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Natalie Arco, Naftali Wayne Assistant Sound Designers. . . . Zack Fiudo, Kris Robertson, Collin Ronsonette Set Decorator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mary Senciboy Make-up Artist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kate Spaulding Signing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Eric Driskill

Production Interns The production interns for Disney’s Mary Poppins 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.

Danielle Adolphson Taylor Branson Zachary Brunkhorst Kassie Cooper Stage Manager Production Director/ Production Sound Designer Intern Intern Choreographer Intern Manager Intern

Grace Crockett Stage Manager Intern

Ella Ferguson Set Design Intern

Zaria Hunter Costume Coordinator Intern

Grace Knight Musical Director Intern

Olivia Hanford Chloe Harris Production Director/ Costume Coordinator Choreographer Intern Intern

Mia Maksimowicz Executive Producer Intern

Gabby Nicholas Musical Director Intern

*Actors Equity Association

Production Interns

Production Who’s Who

The production interns for Disney’s Mary Poppins 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.

Jonah Schnell Lighting Designer Intern

Zach Walters Sound Designer Intern

Shayne Sifford Lighting Designer Intern

Caitlin Stebelman Prop Intern

Christopher Sumner Production Manager Intern

jan albus (Executive Producer) has

produced and directed over 300 special events, including ballet, musical theatre, operetta and concerts. As a performer, her credits include 40 productions at the MUNY, and principal roles with the Florida Ballet Company. She holds a teaching degree from St. Louis University in French and English, and doctorate from the I.S.T.D., London, England. She taught in the Webster University Theater department for seven years while establishing the St. Louis Performing Arts Academy and heading up the Westport Playhouse Dance Department. She founded the St. Louis Performing Art Productions and lists Bye Bye Birdie and Babes in Toyland as favorites. Her position as CEO of Variety has utilized her background in theater, combined with a long history of fundraising for children’s causes in St. Louis. Business and marketing experience was added to the mix during six years of experience with major national corporate sponsors at Del Wilbur and Associates. She founded Variety’s Bikes for Kids, Variety Adventure Camp, Variety Children’s Chorus, Planned Giving Council, Young Variety, the Dennis and Judith Jones Variety Playground in Forest Park, TherHappy Kids, Pedia Pals, and Variety Children’s Theatre. She is married to Larry, her mentor and inspiration in all endeavors, and is proud of her daughter Jacque, a holistic lifestyle coach, and son Michael and his wife Annie, both emergency physicians. She counts her grandsons, Sam and Ben as two of her greatest blessings.

lara teeter (Director & Choreographer) has performed, directed, and choreographed for major regional theatre and opera houses nationwide. He is currently an Associate Professor and Head of the Musical Theatre Program at Webster University’s Conservatory for Theatre Arts in St. Louis, having previously taught for Shenandoah University, Northwestern University, and California State University at Fullerton. He has appeared on the MUNY stage for many years in such shows as Singin’ In the Rain, The Wizard of Oz, Little Shop of Horrors, White Christmas, Hairspray, Beauty and the Beast, and most recently, The Little Mermaid, Bye, Bye Birdie, and Nunsense. 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. From 1999-2004, Lara served as Artistic Director of Light Opera Works in the Chicago area, and in 2000 made his Carnegie Hall debut followed by his Lyric Opera of Chicago debut in 2001. Recordings include On Your Toes, Lady Be Good and the Grammy-nominated The Wizard of Oz. He is also active as a private theatre coach here in St. Louis. Most recently, Lara could be seen on the MUNY stage as Wilber in Hairspray. For the Variety Children’s Theatre, he has directed The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, Oliver!, The Wizard of Oz, Annie, Peter Pan, and Little Mermaid and is thrilled to be involved with this year’s production of Mary Poppins. He and his wife, Kristen, are the proud parents of Charlie, Elizabeth, Katherine and Maggie. 37

Production Who’s Who

greg schweizer (Music Director/

Conductor) is the music director for Visitation Academy, Shooting Star Productions, and Our Lady of Sorrows Church. He is the proud Musical Director for the Variety Children’s Chorus and Variety Children’s Theater. He is musical director and arranger for Broadway stars Lara Teeter and Ken Page, arranging music for 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’Connor, Georgia Frontiere, Lou Rawls, Harry Belafonte, Tommy Tune, Rita Moreno, Stephanie Block, Andrea McArdle, Bernadette Peters, Kathy Rigby, Sutton Foster, and a host of other performers. He has arranged and conducted for the VP Parade for television and the VP Orchestra. As an educator, he has received recognition from the Missouri Fine Arts Academy, and 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 St. Louis 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. 38

larry d. pry (Assistant Director) has

been working with the Variety Children’s Theatre for the last 3 years. He has taught voice, piano and musical theater for over 20 years. He is currently a member of the faculty at Webster University’s Conservatory of Theatre Arts, and St. Louis University’s theatre department. He music directs for both universities as well as many high schools in the St. Louis area. He is also a nationally recognized vocal coach, clinician and accompanist. He was 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 at Edwardsville. Larry currently works as an adjunct professor at Webster University.

emilee buchheit* (Stage Manager) is

thrilled to be returning to Variety for her third season. She previously stage-managed The Wizard of Oz in 2011 and Annie in 2012. When Emilee is not working with Variety, she is the stage manager for The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis and Shakespeare Festival St. Louis. Other stage management credits include the Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre, New Jewish Theatre, The Foolish Theatre Company (NY), and Little Theatre on the Square. Emilee is a proud graduate of the Conservatory of Theatre Arts at Webster University.

Production Who’s Who sean m. savoie (Production Manager)

returns for his fifth production with Variety and is proud be among so many talented artists. Sean currently serves as resident Lighting Designer/Production Manager/ Design Coordinator at Washington University in St. Louis and designs frequently at theatres in St. Louis. He received his MFA from the University of Cincinnati-College Conservatory of Music (CCM) in Lighting Design and Technology. Sean is the proud recipient of the 2009 USITT Rising Star Award and the 2010 Distinguished Alumni Award from CCM.

dunsi dai (Scenic Designer) was born and grew up in China. He received his BA in scenic design from the Central Academy of Drama in Beijing (1982), received his MA in Theatre History and Stage Design from Stanford University (1989), and received his MFA in scenic design from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (1992). He has designed on Off-Broadway as well as at regional theatres across the country. The scope of his design work includes straight drama, musical, opera, experimental production, children’s theatre, corporate theatre, and special events. Representative works include Rita’s Resource (Pan Asian Rep, NYC), Once Upon The Mattress (Brook Hollow Players, NY), Carman (Trenton State Theatre, NJ), Desert Song (Hampton Playhouse, NH), West Side Story (Struther Library Theatre, PA), Mara/Sade (Stanford Rep, CA), Big River (Human Race Theatre, OH), Blues For An Alabama Sky (True Color Theatre, Atlanta), Wit (Repertory Theatre of St. Louis), Waiting For Godot (St. Louis

Black Rep.), Fiddler On The Roof (Stages St. Louis), 1776 (Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre), Two Headed (Black Cat Theatre), Quills (Max&Louie Production). His set design for Mustard Seed Theatre’s Remnant received a Kevin Kline award in the category of Outstanding Scenic Design. He was chosen Best Scenic Designer on Stltoday. com’s “2015 Go List”. Past scenic designs for Variety Children’s Theatre include: The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, Oliver!, The Wizard Of Oz, Annie, Peter Pan, and The Little Mermaid.

john wylie (Lighting Designer) is excited to be working on Mary Poppins. He has designed lights for all of 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. John’s family is very dramatic. rusty wandall (Sound Designer)

is proud to be returning to Variety Children’s Theatre for the 6th year. He is the Head of Sound Design at Webster University and the Resident Sound Designer at the Repertory Theatre of St Louis. Rusty has also worked with Shakespeare Festival St Louis, Opera Theatre of St Louis, Metro Theatre Company, and the Heart of America Shakespeare Festival. He would like to thank his Mom and Marian for their unending support, God for his countless blessings, and Zack for making this the best theatre experience around. 39

Production Who’s Who

peter messineo (Costume Coordinator)

has been associated with The MUNY for over 63 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 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 stage-managed 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 costume designer and wardrobe head for the Veiled Prophet organization. This is Pete’s 6th season with Variety Children’s Theatre.

scott loebl (Charge Scenic 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 as well as teaching the scene painting courses at Webster University. He is a proud member of United Scenic Artists Local USA829 and serves as a trustee on their national executive board.

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.

barb kramer (Program Director) oversees all Variety Children's programs. Barb has extensive experience working with children with disabilities. Her work spans several decades of program development including camp programs, classroom experience, parent support, and counseling. She has a BS in Elementary Special Education and MA in Special Education. julie hankley (Program Manager)

Throughout the year, Julie assists with all of Variety’s in-house programs such as Variety Adventure Camp, Variety Children’s Chorus, Bikes for Kids, and the Emerson Resource Center. Julie holds a BA in Theatre from Millikin University and an MA Ed from Fontbonne University.

jill kranzberg (Children’s Acting

Coach) This is Jill’s 7th show with Variety Children’s Theatre. 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 and every grade up to seniors citizens even college-level classes. She has been in over two dozen shows as well as a few feature films, and various commercials. She has directed many shows, including those at The Theatre Guild of Webster Groves.

Production Who’s Who elizabeth teeter (Assistant to the Director) is delighted to help out on Variety's production of Mary Poppins after playing the role of Jane Banks in the closing company on Broadway. She will return to Broadway next spring as "Betty Parris" in the upcoming revival of The Crucible after most recently playing the role of Young Elizabeth opposite Helen Mirren in 2015's highly acclaimed production of The Audience, directed by Stephen Daldry. Favorite regional roles include "Jane Banks" in Mary Poppins (The MUNY), “Flounder” in The Little Mermaid (The MUNY), “The Girl” in Way to Heaven (New Jewish Theatre), “Tootie” in Meet Me In St. Louis (The MUNY), "Marta VonTrapp” in The Sound of Music (The Muny), "Macduff Child" in Macbeth (The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis), and ensemble work in Carmen and Alice in Wonderland (Opera Theatre of St. Louis). Other New York: "Eva" in the 2012 and 2013 workshops of the new musical Lord Tom as well as its 2015 run at The York Theatre with Phillip Boykin; "Young Marguerite" in the 2013 workshop of Ever After directed and choreographed by Kathleen Marshall, "Muriel Plakenstein" in Merman's Apprentice with Klea Blackhurst at Birdland 2015. CD recordings: Merman's Apprentice, Lord Tom, and Carols for a Cure (2012 Mary Poppins cast). An avid lover of classical ballet, she has studied with Russia's prestigious Bolshoi Ballet and makes her full length ballet debut as Clara in Missouri Ballet Theatre's 2015 production of the Nutcracker.

rachel goldman (Assistant Choreographer) is so happy to work with these amazing children in Variety Children’s Theatre. Past credits include Legally blonde (asst. choreographer), 42nd Street (Lorraine), Mame (Agnes Gooch/asstistant choreographer), and The Drowsy Chaperone (Trix/ choreographer). Thank you Lara Teeter for believing in her and Mom, Dad, and Ben for never ending love and support. marty strohmeyer (Intern Coor-

dinator) has been a theatre educator for 18 years and is currently in his 11th year of teaching acting, technical theatre and public speaking at Visitation Academy. Marty is a co-founder and the creative director for Shooting Star Productions, a local not for profit theatre company for children and teen performers. Under his direction the company has received the Arts For Life Best Musical Award three times in the past five years, most recently for the 2013 production of Willy Wonka. Marty has served on the Board of Governors for the Speech and Theatre Association of Missouri and as national coordinator for a teen leadership-training program in Ohio. Marty is an activist in anti-bullying and is a certified trainer in an anti-bullying curriculum.

jake greene (Technical Director) is currently a senior in The Conservatory of Theatre Arts at Webster University and is thrilled to be working with the Variety team this year! He would like to thank everyone involved in creating another phenomenal piece of theatre. 41

Cast Who’s Who

greg stone (Prop Master) has been working in theatre for over 35 years. He has a special place in his heart for Variety as he worked with 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. cristy sifford (Hair/Wig Designer)

brendan woods (Assistant Stage

Manager) is grateful to be working with the Variety team on this year’s production. He is currently pursuing a BFA in stage management at Webster University. Previously, he worked on All The Way (STL Rep), Spring Awakening (Webster Conservatory) and The Last Five Years (Webster Conservatory).

has been doing hair and make up for 18 years. She particularly enjoys working at the Peabody, the MUNY and Fox theaters. She is excited to work with Variety because they hold a special place in her heart.

joy addler (Assistant Stage Manager) is a Stage Management major at Webster University’s Conservatory of Theatre Arts. She is thrilled to be returning to Variety for the third year as an Assistant Stage Manager. A special thank you to Peter Sargent and Jan Albus for the wonderful opportunity. katie an siegel (Assistant Stage

Manager) is thrilled to be working her first Variety show. She loves Mary Poppins and working with kids. She most recently worked on Oklahoma! and Pippin as an Assistant Stage Manager at Grandstreet Theatre. She is currently a sophomore in the Stage Management program at Webster University.

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