Play Guide S I S T E R AC T / /
October 24 – November 10, 2019
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TA B L E O F
P L AY G U I D E A C K N O W L E D G E M E N T S :
D E S I G N E D BY:
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
Emily Holt emilyfightscrime.com
Sarah Close F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N V I S I T
E D I T E D BY:
WAT E RT OW E RT H E AT R E .O RG O R
Elizabeth Kensek
C A L L 972 . 4 5 0. 62 32
S I S T E R AC T / /
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T H E P L AY SY NO P S I S : ACT ONE
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SY NO P S I S : ACT TWO
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MUSICAL NUMBERS
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THE CHARACTERS
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BEHIND THE SHOW I N S P I R AT I O N TRIVIA P R O D U C T I O N H I S TO R Y T H E C R E ATO R S
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OUR PRODUCTION M E E T T H E C AST
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Act One
Synopsis On Christmas Eve 1977, in a disco nightclub in Philadelphia, singer Deloris Van Cartier and her two back-ups are performing in front of an empty house. A gangster and his four henchmen appear. Curtis Jackson, the gangster-nightclub owner, is also Deloris’ boyfriend (“Take Me To Heaven”). Deloris is overjoyed as she believes he is going to introduce her to a record producer. She soon learns, however, that this is not to be. Jackson tells her he cannot join her for Christmas Day but gives her a distinctive fur coat that formerly belonged to his wife. Hurt and frustrated, Deloris tells her backup singers about her dreams of stardom and fame (“Fabulous, Baby!”). She decides to break up with Jackson and head out of Philadelphia to go fulfill her dreams on her own. On her way out of the club, Deloris witnesses Jackson and his crew murder someone accused of “squealing” to the cops, and she rightfully becomes terrified. Deloris runs for it as Jackson orders his men to get her and bring her back.
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Sometime later, Deloris runs into a police station and tells the desk chief, Eddie, about what has happened. The two recognize each other as old friends from school with Deloris re-calling his nickname “Sweaty Eddie.” Eddie reveals that the police force has been trying to nail Jackson for his crimes, but have been unsuccessful because they never had any hard evidence - until now. Eddie suggests that given Deloris’ position as a witness, she needs to go into a protection program and sends her to the place he believes Jackson will never find her…a convent! When Deloris arrives, she is disappointed to learn from Mother Superior that contact with the outside world is limited and that she cannot smoke, drink, or wear any of her less than appropriate clothing (“Here Within These Walls”). When Deloris joins the other nuns for dinner, she is introduced as “Sister Mary Clarence” and after several comedic interactions with the overly perky Sister Mary Patrick, Deloris discovers just how limiting life inside the convent will be (“It’s Good To Be A Nun”). When Deloris asks the sisters about what they’re missing, Mother Superior orders that Deloris go on a fast & refuses her supper. Meanwhile, back in his nightclub, Jackson is frustrated that he cannot find Deloris anywhere. He tells Joey, TJ, and Pablo how he will not stop until he finds and kills Deloris (“When I Find My Baby”). Hungry from her forced fast, Deloris sneaks across the street to a bar and is followed by bubbly Sister Mary Patrick and shy Sister Mary Robert. When the two nuns arrive they see how fun things can be outside of the convent. However, Deloris recognizes Jackson’s thugs, Joey, TJ, and Pablo as they also enter the bar. Luckily, a bar fight breaks out, giving Deloris, Sister Mary Patrick, and Sister Mary Robert a chance to escape. Eddie and Mother Superior meet them back at the convent.
Mother Superior confronts Deloris, telling her that she must conform to the life of the nuns. Eddie agrees and reveals that Jackson has upped the price on her head, so she needs to be careful. Deloris storms back to the convent after being informed that she has to wake up at 5 am and join the church choir. Eddie, now alone with only the drunks and homeless on the street, privately reflects on his desire to impress Deloris (“I Could Be That Guy”). The following morning, Deloris attends the choir practice and discovers that they are in very poor shape. Deloris offers to take over from Sister Mary Lazarus, an older nun, and manages to teach the nuns how to sing in key and on time. She is also able to break the quiet and timid Sister Mary Robert out of her shell (“Raise Your Voice”). That Sunday, the choir performs a rousing up-tempo hymn (“Take Me To Heaven (Reprise)). Although the church is struggling, the improved performance and new material bring an influx of donations and membership. Mother Superior, however, is horrified that the simple traditional choir she knew such a short time ago has changed and become modern.
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Act Two
Synopsis Mother Superior wants to get rid of Deloris, but Monsignor O'Hara reminds her that because of Deloris, the men who were planning to buy the church building and turn out the nuns have instead fallen in love with the re-energized choir and have pledged their money to help improve the church. Over the last few weeks, the choir has become incredibly successful and the money from donations has paid for the church to be remodeled (“Sunday Morning Fever”). Later, Monsignor O'Hara bursts in with exciting news: the choir has been asked to perform a special concert in front of the Pope! Deloris is thrilled but also regretful; Jackson and his goons have spotted Deloris with the choir on the television accepting the invitation. Jackson orders his henchmen to get into the convent and bring Deloris back. TJ, Joey, and Pablo discuss how they will do this (“Lady in the Long Black Dress”). Meanwhile, Mother Superior prays to God and asks why He has given her the challenge that is named Deloris (“I Haven't Got A Prayer”). She soon receives a call from Eddie. Deloris is approached by the nuns before they go to sleep, asking her to lead them in praying for their show for the Pope, which is the following day (“Bless The Show”). Mother Superior arrives shortly thereafter and informs Deloris that the court date for Jackson has moved up to the next day and she must leave immediately. The other nuns overhear and Deloris is forced to tell them the truth about who she really is and explain why she cannot perform with them. Deloris quickly runs off
to get her things, followed by Sister Mary Robert, while the other nuns return to their rooms disappointed. As Deloris prepares to leave, Sister Mary Robert begs to come with her stating that she has been inspired to become a stronger person and go after the things she wants (“The Life I Never Led”). Deloris tells Sister Mary Robert that she is capable of doing it all herself if she really wants to. Deloris leaves the convent and stays at Eddie's house for the night. She is overjoyed to finally be able to testify against Jackson and his boys the next day and can then go back to pursuing the career she's dreamed of (“Fabulous, Baby!” (Reprise)). She begins to feel guilt over abandoning her sisters when they needed her most, and upon further reflection comes to realize that the choices she is making will leave her with fame and money, but not happiness. She decides to return to the convent and sing with her sisters (“Sister Act”). Elsewhere, Jackson thinks up a new way to get into the convent (“When I Find My Baby” (Reprise)). Dressed as nuns, Jackson, Joey, TJ, and Pablo sneak into the Queen of Angels Cathedral where they find and chase Deloris. The nuns decide to take action to protect Deloris, but Mother Superior is adamant that they stay away and call the police. This prompts an outburst from Sister Mary Robert who tells Mother Superior that she won't be quiet anymore (“The Life I Never Led” (Reprise)). The other nuns agree and all go running through the convent looking for Deloris. Deloris eventually runs into Jackson, leading to a final confrontation. He is armed and dangerous, and she is scared but calm. Jackson demands that Deloris get on her knees and beg for her life. However, all the sisters run in unafraid & stand in front of her, telling Jackson that he will have to go through them first (“Sister Act” (Reprise)). Jackson is about to start firing at the nuns when Eddie comes in and fights Jackson off. He arrests Jackson and his thugs, after which, Eddie and Deloris share a passionate embrace. Mother Superior and Deloris come to a truce and agree to accept each other. As the curtain begins to fall, we transition to the performance in front of the Pope as the nuns stand in unison with their voices ringing in harmony, led by a changed for the better Deloris Van Cartier (“Spread The Love Around”).
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Musical
Numbers AC T ONE •
TA K E M E T O H E AV E N / /
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FA B U L O U S , B A B Y ! / /
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H E R E W I T H I N T H E S E WA L L S / /
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IT’S GOOD TO BE A NUN //
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W H E N I F I N D M Y B A BY / /
Curtis, Joey, Pablo, TJ
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I C O U L D B E T H AT G U Y / /
Eddie, Homeless
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H E R E W I T H I N T H E S E WA L L S ( R E P R I S E ) / /
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RA I S E YO U R VO I C E / /
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TA K E M E T O H E AV E N ( R E P R I S E ) / /
Deloris, Michelle, Tina
Deloris, Michelle, Tina Mother Superior, Deloris, Nuns
Mary Lazarus, Mary Patrick, Mary Robert, Deloris, Mary Theresa, Nuns
Mother Superior
Deloris, Mary Robert, Mary Patrick, Mary Lazarus, Nuns Nuns, Deloris, Mary Patrick, Mary Robert
AC T TWO •
S U N D AY M O R N I N G F E V E R / /
Monsignor O’Hara, Deloris, Nuns, Mother Superior,
Mary Patrick, Eddie, Mary Lazarus •
TA K E M E T O H E AV E N ( R E P R I S E ) / /
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LA DY I N T H E LO N G B LAC K D R E S S / /
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I H AV E N ’ T G O T A P R AY E R / /
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BLESS OUR SHOW //
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THE LIFE I NEVER LED //
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FA B U L O U S , B A B Y ! ( R E P R I S E ) / /
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S I ST E R AC T / /
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W H E N I F I N D M Y B A BY ( R E P R I S E ) / /
Curtis
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THE LIFE I NEVER LED (REPRISE) //
Mary Robert
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S I ST E R AC T ( R E P R I S E ) / /
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Joey, Pablo, TJ
Mother Superior
Deloris, Mary Patrick, Mary Robert, Mary Lazarus, Nuns Mary Robert Eddie, Deloris, Fantasy Dancers
Deloris
Deloris, Mother Superior, Mary Robert, Mary Patrick, Mary Lazarus, Nuns S P R E A D T H E LOV E A R O U N D
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Mother Superior, Deloris, Nuns, Mary Patrick,
Mary Robert, Mary Lazarus, Men •
Deloris, Mary Patrick, Nuns
RA I S E YO U R VO I C E / /
Full Company
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The WHO’S WHO
Deloris Van Cartier
TJ
Sister Mary Patrick
Aspiring singer who witnesses a murder & is placed under protective custody in a convent under the name Sister Mary Clarence. Loud-mouthed & sassy, but ultimately caring.
One of Curtis’ thugs. Deft and cognizant of the facts, constantly in a state of ignorant bliss.
A nun. Consistently perky, enthusiastic, & easily excitable.
Ernie
Deloris’ back up singers.
One of Curtis’ thugs. First appears to be a yes-man, but turns out to be an undercover police informant.
Curtis
Eddie Souther
Nightclub owner, gangster & Deloris' boyfriend. Cocky & controlling, always on the verge of violence.
Joey
Philadelphia police officer & high school classmate of Deloris who helps get her into hiding. He still yearns for Deloris after all these years & dreams of being her hero.
One of Curtis’s thugs. Believes himself to be quite the ladies' man.
Mother Superior
Michelle & Tina
Pablo One of Curtis’ thugs. A natural follower, speaks in Spanish.
The prioress of Queen of Angels Cathedral. Sarcastic & a bit stiff, she is very protective of the Sisters under her care.
Monsignor O’Hara The Priest of Queen of Angels Cathedral.
Sister Mary Robert A young postulant. Shy & softspoken, singing with Deloris helps her find her voice.
Sister Mary Lazarus A nun & head of the choir. Deadpan & the least welcoming of any of the nuns, she eventually gets caught up in Deloris's soul music.
Sister Mary Martin-of-Tours A nun. In her own world, but has her moments of surprising clarity.
Sister Mary Theresa The oldest nun. Decrepit at first glance, but secretly packs a punch.
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Inspiration Sister Act is based on the hit 1992 film comedy of the same name, starring Whoopi Goldberg. With a movie so popular and musically focused, Stage Entertainment decided to produce a stage adaptation. They brought on Oscar and Tony-winning composer Alan Menken, along with lyricist and frequent collaborator Glenn Slater. Bill and Cheri Steinkellner were also hired to write the book. Menken’s musical score was inspired by
1970s music: specifically disco and gospel. As a result, the setting was changed from Reno and San Francisco in the 90s (the original setting of the movie) to Philadelphia in the 70s. During the transfer from the West End to Broadway, the script underwent several revisions and Whoopi Goldberg herself joined as a producer.
Courtesy of T O U C H S T O N E P I C T U R E S
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Fun Fact
While Paul Rudnick was writing the screenplay for the original film, Bette Midler (who was attached to star at the time) suggested he should go to an actual convent to do research. He stayed with the sisters of Regina Laudis Abbey in Bethlehem, Connecticut. One member of this convent is Mother Dolores Hart, O.S.B., who as a younger woman was an actress, singer, dancer, and Hollywood “it girl.� As one of Hollywood's rising stars, she appeared in many films, such as the Elvis vehicles Loving You (1957) and King Creole (1958), as well as the beach romance Where the Boys Are (1960). In 1960, she also starred in St. Francis of Assisi, where she portrayed Clare, a woman who gives up everything to follow Saint Francis and founds the Order of Poor Clares.
At the height of her career, Dolores stunned the world by making the decision to become a cloistered nun and enter the Abbey of Regina Laudis. "I just knew that this was what God wanted from me," she said years later. Mother Hart is the only known nun to be a voting member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences. She and her fellow nuns enjoy watching the Academy nominated films each year.
Production History
Sister Act first premiered at the Pasadena Playhouse in California, running from October 24 to December 23, 2006. While in residence, it broke various box office records. The production ended up moving to the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia & ran from January 17 to February 25, 2007. The musical then moved across the pond to London. The West End production premiered on June 2, 2009 at the London Palladium starring Patina Miller, Sheila Hancock, and Ian Lavender. It ran for more than a year & closed on October 30, 2010. Sister Act opened in New York at the Broadway Theatre on April 20, 2011. After the West End production closed, the show went through a multitude of revisions helmed by new book writer Douglas Carter Beane. Patina Miller transferred with the production in the role of Deloris, co-starring with Victoria Clark, Fred Applegate, and Chester Gregory. It closed on August 26, 2012 after 561 performances. The Broadway production was nominated for five 2011 Tony Awards and five Drama Desk Awards. The musical has launched two tours: one in the UK and Ireland that ran from October 2010 to October 2012, and one in North America that opened during the fall of 2012. Sister Act has also been performed in Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Australia, South Korea, and Mexico.
ALAN MENKEN (composer) Introduced to musical theatre as a young child in New York, Alan Menken began composing while he was supposed to be practicing his piano lessons. Although he had aspirations of working in music, Menken thought he was doomed to the “family business”: dentistry. After earning a degree in music from New York University, Menken found that he was able to support himself by writing jingles, accompanying ballet classes, and music directing shows for others. His collaboration with Howard Ashman began with God Bless You Mr. Rosewater and quickly moved onto the off-Broadway show, Little Shop of Horrors. Menken is best known to the general public for his work with Disney. He provided the score for the films The Little Mermaid, Beauty & the Beast, Aladdin, Newsies, Pocahontas, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Hercules, Home on the Range, Enchanted, and Tangled. Beauty & the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Newsies and Aladdin have all been adapted for the stage. Menken has been a nominee and winner of multiple Oscars, Golden Globes, Grammys, Tonys, and Drama Desk Awards. He lives in upstate New York with his wife Janis, a former professional ballet dancer, and their children Anna and Nora.
GLENN SLATER (lyricist) Slater began writing for the theatre at age seventeen, with the offBroadway production of How I Survived High School. While attending Harvard, he contributed to the legendary Hasty Pudding Theatricals. Slater was nominated for the Best Original Score Tony Award for the stage adaptation of The Little Mermaid in 2008 and for his work on Sister Act the Musical in 2011. He is perhaps best known for his work on the Disney films Tangled and Home on the Range. Along with Menken, he received a Grammy Award in the Best Song Written for Visual Media category for the song "I See The Light" from the film Tangled. A member of both ASCAP and the Dramatists' Guild, Slater resides in Manhattan with his wife, composer and lyricist Wendy Leigh Wilf, and their sons.
CHERI & BILL STEINKELLNER (book) Married couple Cheri and Bill Steinkellner are winners of multiple Emmys, Golden Globes, Peoples’ Choice, BAFTA, Writers’ Guild, and TV Land Legend Awards for writing/producing “Cheers” and “Teacher’s Pet.” They also received a Tony nomination in 2011 for their work on Sister Act the Musical. Bill is known for co-writing The PeeWee Herman Show, and Cheri is known for writing the award-winning musical Hello! My Baby, which was California’s first All-State Musical in 2014. The Steinkellers currently teach at Stanford, USC and UCSB in Santa Barbara.
DOUGLAS CARTER BEANE (additional book material) Beane’s Broadway play The Little Dog Laughed was nominated for the Tony Award for Best New Play and won the GLAAD media award for Outstanding New York Theater. His other works include As Bees In Honey Drown (Outer Critics Circle John Gassner Award), Music From A Sparkling Planet and The Country Club. His film To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar, produced by Steven Spielberg, was the number one film in America for a month. As artistic director of the New York Theater Company Drama Department, he has produced over forty productions. He currently resides in New York City with his family.
Meet the
CAST Cherish Robinson D O LO R I S
Chrish Robinson is a multi-hyphenate musician, singer, and actor. She recently composed, music directed, and starred in SOLSTICE at Theater Three. BroadwayWorld (Dallas) hailed her as one of DFWs ‘Fresh Faces of 2017’. Robinson was recently seen on The Colbert Show and Austin City Limits with Elle King— vocally producing and serving as a background vocalist for several songs reaching number one on the Billboard charts. Sharing her love of theater arts to others is a passion. She is a sought after vocal coach and mentor to youth and adults throughout DFW. www.cherishloverobinson.com
Ashley Waddy MICHELLE / ENSEMBLE
Ashley Waddy is so excited to be making her DFW debut! She’s spent the last few years performing all around the world with Royal Caribbean Cruise Line and at Hong Kong Disneyland and she’s glad to be back in Texas, her home state! She holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from AMDA College of Performing Arts NY/LA.
Cleo Lissade TINA / ENSEMBLE
Cleo Lissade (Tina) is very excited to be making her stage debut at WaterTower Theatre. Some of her favorite credits include: Egyptus in THE ARK (Artisan Center Theatre), Ayah in THE SECRET GARDEN (Stolen Shakespeare Guild), Mistress Page in THE MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR (ACU Theatre), Sponge in JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH (ACU Theatre), as well as, being a part of the Ensemble in the musical, PIPPIN (Paramount Theatre). She’d like to thank her family and friends for their endless love and support. Let all that you do be done in love. 1 Corinthians 16:14
John Avant III CURTIS / ENSEMBLE
JOHN AVANT III is honored to be making his WaterTower Theatre debut with this phenomenal show, cast, and crew! Favorite credits include: (Dr. Sanson Carrasco/ The Knight of Mirrors) Man of La Mancha, (Issachar & Judah) Joseph and the Amazing Techniocolor Dreamcoat, (Frank-n-Furter & Riff-Raff) The Rocky Horror Show, (Berger) Hair, (Haemon) Antigone, & (Billy Bibbit) One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. John earned his degree from Marymount Manhattan College and also trained at the The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Steps on Broadway, & Broadway Dance Center.
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Bryson Petersen JOEY / ENSEMBLE
Bryson is an actor, singer, and teaching artist with 15 years of experience in North Texas. Recent onstage credits include Ambrose Kemper in Hello, Dolly! (Casa Manaña), Reinhold/Male Swing in Spring Awakening (Uptown Players), Danny Zuko in Grease and Tin Man in The Wizard of Oz (both with Granbury Theatre Company). Bryson participated in Lincoln Center Education’s 2017 Teaching Artist Development Labs in New York City. For five years, Bryson co-administered “Acting Out In Class,” an in-school theatre workshop program that served over 6,000 students at 26 different schools.
Gustavo Perez Diaz PA B LO / E N S E M B L E
Gustavo Perez Diaz began his performing career began with the Opera Theater of St. Louis’s Artist in Training program. He studied Vocal Performance and Opera Theater at the University of Missouri St Louis where he focused on Operatic Roles such as Nermorino in The Elixir of Love, Alfred in Die Fledermaus and Kastisha in The Mikado. As an active member in the St. Louis area he also performed roles such as Rocky in Rocky Horror Picture Show, Elegba in In the Red and Brown Water, and Barnaby Tucker in Hello, Dolly!
Sheridan Monroe TJ / ENSEMBLE
Sheridan Monroe is ecstatic to make his WaterTower debut. Sister Act is one of his favorite musicals. He was last seen as Sebastian in The Little Mermaid at Artisan Theater. Monroe has done parts such as Earthworm (James and the Giant Peach), Scarecrow (The Wiz) and Judas (Godspell). Monroe wishes to one day be on Broadway, while also having a music career. He would like to thank his mother, Sheran Keyton, for her constant support and pushing him to get as far as he has gotten today. He is all over social media as OfficialSheridanMonroe.
Gabriel Ethridge ERNIE / ENSEMBLE
Gabriel Ethridge (Ernie/Ensemble) WaterTower debut! This is his second time to play Ernie (first with MainStage Irving) and was dying to come back to the role. Off Broadway: Inferno! Fire at the Cocoanut Grove (Al/Tobin/Angelo/Ben). Recent credits: CATS (Bustopher/Ensemble), A Little Night Music (Mr. Lindquist), Bright Star-Regional Premier (Daryll), Ordinary Days (Jason), The Boyfriend (Tony), Carmen (Dallas Opera), and Barefoot in the Park (Paul). To the cast and crew, the honor is in knowing all of you. For upcoming projects, writing, and music: @gabrielcethridge.
Jamall Houston EDDIE SOUTHER
Jamall Houston is excited to return to WaterTower Theatre! He is an award-winning singer, actor, and songwriter from Dallas, Texas. Favorite credits: Godspell at WaterTower Theater, Henry in the regional premiere of The First Noel at Jubilee Theatre, Curtis Jackson in Sister Act: The Musical at Mainstage Irving, Delray in Memphis at GLCT, Nat in The Birds at Theatre Three, Man 1 in Songs For A New World at NTPA. Phil 4:11-13 IG: @justjamall
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Mary Tiner MOTHER SUPERIOR
Mary Tiner is making her WaterTower Theatre debut. She has performed for many theatres in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. Some of her favorite roles include Mrs. Toothe, Everything in the Garden, Rover Dramawerks; Madame Arcati, Blithe Spirit , The Stolen Shakespeare Guild; Aunt March, Little Women the Musical, Contemporary Theatre of Dallas; Abby Brewster, Arsenic and Old Lace, Pocket Sandwich Theatre; Mary Herries, Kind Lady, ICT Mainstage; Mrs. Boyle, The Mousetrap, Garland Civic Theatre; Betty Meeks, The Foreigner, Theatre Frisco; and Ouiser, Steel Magnolias, Allen’s Community Theatre.
Chance Harmon MONSIGNOR O’HARA / ENSEMBLE
Chance is a director, producer, and performer with over thirty years’ experience in the entertainment industry. Onstage credits include The Wizard of Oz (Granbury Theatre Co.), plus regional theatre productions such as 42nd Street, Annie, Hello, Dolly!, and the world premiere of Sleeping Beauty at the MUNY, where Variety magazine called him “a bright spot on the stage.” As Artistic Director at the Wichita Theatre, Chance created “Acting Out In Class,” an in-school theatre workshop program that served over 6,000 students at 26 different schools.
Caitlyn Polson S I S T E R M A R Y PAT R I C K
Caitlyn Polson is a UNT Graduate from the class of 2018 with a concentration in Theatre Performance. This is her first professional production with Water Tower Addison. She is so elated to bring her own effervescent and goofy flare to Sister Mary Patrick. You may have seen her in other shows with Denton Community Theatre such as Heathers, where she played Martha Dunstock, or as M in Sarah Kanes Crave. She hopes to continue to spread love and joy through her craft and help others feel real joyful (and triumphant!)
Laura Lyman Payne SISTER MARY ROBERT
Laura Lyman Payne (Sister Mary Robert) is thrilled to be back at WaterTower after starring is Josephine “Jo” Monaghan in The Ballad of Little Jo this June. Other REGIONAL CREDITS include: Matilda, The Musical (Miss Honey), ZACH Theatre; ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas (Mary Midkiff), Casa Manana Theatre; Dark Room, Bridge Rep; My Fair Lady, Garland Summer Musicals; Beowulf (Warrior), Trinity Repertory Company. ADDITIONAL CREDITS: Anna Karenina (Anna), Notch Theater (workshop); Side Show (Daisy Hilton) and Our Country’s Good, Brown/Trinity Rep. Laura received her MFA in Acting from Brown University/Trinity Rep. www.lauralymanpayne.com; @lauraly_payne
Laurel Collins SISTER MARY LAZARUS
Laurel Collins was a Broadway singer and tap dancer before she left the biz to become a park ranger. Then, after hiking miles of wilderness, she returned to the arts and still leads a varied career in arts administration, directing, teaching and performance. She’s thrilled to be doing what makes her smile.
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Ivy Opdyke S I ST E R M A RY M A RT I N - O F-TO U R S
Ivy happily returns to WaterTower Theatre. You may have seen Ivy as Anne-Marie in WaterTower Theatre’s A DOLL’S HOUSE and recently as Lady Bracknell/THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST, Wandernook Theatre. She has been privileged to appear in productions throughout the area with Theatre Three, Brick Road Theatre, Theatre Britain and MainStage. Other appearances include Queen Victoria/MURDER MADE ME FAMOUS and Lady Fermoy/THE PRICE OF FAME on Reelz Network. Ivy trains with Class Act Dallas, directed by Daniel Foster.
Laura Yancey SISTER MARY THERESA/ENSEMBLE
Laura is proud to be making her debut at WaterTower. For the past 40 years she has worked on most area stages, including Undermain, Shakespeare Dallas, Theatre Three, Second Thought Theatre, Kitchen Dog, WingSpan, Echo, Pegasus, Contemporary Theatre of Dallas, and New Arts Theatre. Also a writer and co-founder of Born in a Trunk Productions, she toured Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana portraying famous women of arts and letters. Training: Southern Methodist University’s MFA in Acting.
Branden Bailey ENSEMBLE
Branden A. Bailey is excited to be making his Water Tower debut! A Chicago native, Branden’s heart has always been in performing arts. Singing, dancing and acting have always been his passions. Some of his favorite roles include: The View Upstairs (Ensemble), Once On This Island (Ensemble), Children of Eden (Cain), Rocky Horror (Frank N Furter), Sister Act: The Musical (Eddie Souther), Hands On A Hardbody (Ronald McCowan), Legally Blonde (Warner Huntington iii), It’s A Wonderful Life: A Radio Play (Harry Bailey, Mr. Martini, Sam Wainwright). Instagram: @brandenih
Jeremy Davis ENSEMBLE
Jeremy is excited to grace the WaterTower stage again. He was last seen in “The Ballad of Little Jo.” Jeremy is a native of Mexia Texas and has been in the DFW metroplex for the last six years. Some of his credits include Mister in The Color Purple, Shrek in Shrek the Musical, Tom Collins in Rent, and Tiny Joe Dixon in Dallas Theatre Centers production of Dreamgirls. Jeremy would like to thank his family and friends for their continued love and support.
Thi Le ENSEMBLE
Thi Le (Ensemble) is delighted to make her WaterTower Theatre debut in SISTER ACT! She has credits in Brookhaven Theatre’s Jesus Christ Superstar (Mary Magdalene), Brick Road Theatre’s Mamma Mia (Ensemble), Uptown Players’s Spring Awakening (Anna), Firehouse Theatre’s Bright Star (Ensemble), Imprint Theatreworks’s Kentucky (Sophie), and most recently Firehouse Theatre’s CATS (Jemima/Sillabub). Thi loves creating art and having the opportunity to tell someone else’s stories, and she strives to inspire others to do the same. Follow her on social media: @littleteacup37
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Ursula Villarreal ENSEMBLE
Ursula Villarreal is excited to be in her first production at the Water Tower Theater. Some of her favorite roles include Laura in The Anxiety Project and Mrs. Potts in Beauty and the Beast. She graduated from the Professional Conservatory of Musical Theatre at the New York Film Academy and is excited to begin her involvement in the Dallas musical theater scene.
Margaret Vogel ENSEMBLE
Margaret was most recently seen as the diabolical Madame President in Beyond Perfection (new musical-original cast). You might also have seen her in the roles of Mrs. Snoring Man/WHITE CHRISTMAS and Mrs. Squires/THE MUSIC MAN at Stolen Shakespeare, as well as Bea/THREE DECEMBERS at Painted Sky Opera and the ensemble of Kiss Me Kate at Irving Mainstage. Additionally, she has had the privilege of playing the role of The Wife/JUNIPER TREE at her alma mater, Oklahoma City University (from which she has an opera and music theatre degree).
Crystal Williams NUN
Crystal Williams (Nun) is thrilled to be performing in her first production at WaterTower Theater! She was most recently seen in Fort Worth Opera’s Porgy and Bess at Bass Hall. Regional credits: The View Upstairs (Uptown Players), This Random World (Circle Theater), The Color Purple, Alice Wonder, Harlem Blues, Lysistrada, God’s Trombones (Jubilee Theater), The King and I (Casa Manana), Cabin in the Sky (Lyric Stage), Origin of the Specifics (Hip Pocket Theater), I’m Every Woman, Fat Freddy’s, Sam Shade (DVA Productions). Crystal would like to thank her amazing family, with special thanks to her Mother, and the 4Js… Joseph III, Joseph IV, Jordyn and Jonah! Crystal holds a BA, BFA and an M.ED from Texas Wesleyan University.
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Meet the
Cheryl Denson DIRECTOR
Cheryl Denson (Director) is a theatrical director, designer, and actress with around 300 credits for major theaters in Dallas and around the country. Ms. Denson has directed Angels in America, Parts1 and 2, The View UpStairs, bare: a pop musical, Altar Boyz, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Victor/ Victoria, The Boy from Oz, and Catch Me If You Can, End of the Rainbow, It’s Only a Play, The Full Monty, Titanic, The Cake, La Cage Aux Folles, A Year With Frog and Toad, Oklahoma, The King and I, Carousel, Master Class, Bye, Bye Birdie, Hello, Dolly!, Fiorello, The Most Happy Fella and The Sound of Music. Past recognition for direction: After the Fair (1997 Leon Rabin Award), The Most Happy Fella (1998 Rabin Award), Gypsy (1999 Rabin Award), Richard Corey (2000 Rabin Nominee), Hair (2007 Rabin Nominee), A Christmas to Remember (2001 Rabin Nominee). Cheryl also has a Rabin award for acting and numerous Dallas Critics’ Forum Awards, Column Awards and other recognition for acting and directing. Cheryl is a member of AEA, SAG/AFTRA. She has worked in television/radio as an on-camera performer and voice talent and behind the scenes as a set/costume designer for over 60 television commercials and industrial films. Cheryl holds an M.F.A. from Trinity University and a B.A. from Baylor University.
Adam C Wright MUSIC DIRECTOR
Adam C Wright has been music directing in Dallas since 1997, including the US Premieres of Soho Cinders and Closer to Heaven. As a composer and orchestrator, current projects include Isabella’s Treasure and a stage reading of A Taste of Beauty later this year. He has worked as Betty Buckley’s local accompanist, and served as
MD and copyist for Facing East at the Lyric Theater in London with Harriet Thorpe, Rebecca Lock, and Alasdair Harvey. Previous productions at WaterTower include Smokey Joe’s Cafe, Last 5 Years, and Godspell.
Kellie Carroll CHOREOGRAPHER
Kellie Carroll (Choreographer) is excited to be working at WTT, last seen on the WTT stage as the Pony Tale Girl in “Sweet Charity!” Kellie is the resident choreographer, dance director, and co acting producer at The Acting Studio with Shane & Erica Peterman. Kellie also graduated and was formally on staff at KD Conservatory before completing the intensive program at The Neighborhood Playhouse in NYC. Kellie is now primarily a director and choreographer, but has been seen performing around the metroplex in productions, a few including The Producers (Uptown Players), West Side Story (Lyric Stage), and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (Watertower Theatre). Kellie is also excited about choreographing the Regional Premiere of Golden Boy at Watertower Theatre.
Donna Marquet SCENIC DESIGNER
Donna’s work has been seen locally at Shakesepare Dallas, The Circle Theatre, Jubilee Theatre, Dallas Theatre Center, Kitchen Dog Theatre, Theatre Three and Cara Mia Theatre. She has also designed for South Coast Repertory Theatre, Theatre @ Boston Court, Center Theatre Group and Open Fist Theatre in Los Angeles. Donna has her MFA from the University of California, San Diego and currently is a faculty member at the University of North Texas. www.donnamarquet.com
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Ryan Matthieu Smith
Jane Quetin
COSTUME AND WIG DESIGN
PROPERTY DESIGN
Ryan Matthieu Smith is an award winning director and designer working in film, television, and theatre. Ryan is both the production designer and the costume designer for the cult comedy HURRICANE BIANCA, and it’s sequels, starring Bianca Del Rio. Ryan’s next film adventure include several series for Netflix. Past credits for WaterTower Theater include design work for Hit The Wall, The Ballad of Little Jo, and Godspell. Check out upcoming and exciting work from Ryan at www.giantentertainment.org
Jane Quetin (Property Design) is pleased to be designing Sister Act for WaterTower. She previously designed The Cake, A View Upstairs, A Very Judy Christmas, Angels in America: Peristroika, Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, A Chorus Line, The Full Monty, Titanic, Angels in America: The New Millennium, It’s Only a Play, End of the Rainbow, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Catch Me if You Can and Victor/Victoria for Uptown Players. Jane also designed 1776, The Music Man, Master Class, Oklahoma, Carousel, Sundown, The King and I, The Most Happy Fella, Blue Roses, and Titanic, among many others for Lyric Stage; Social Security, Last Night of Ballyhoo, Blue Moon Dancing, The Secret Affairs of Mildred Wild and Lady Bug, Lady Bug, Fly Away Home for Contemporary Theatre of Dallas; and Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer for Wishing Star Productions. Jane holds a BA from San Jose State University and an MFA from the University of Utah. howardsounddesign@gmail.com
Jason Lynch LIGHTING DESIGNER
JASON LYNCH (Lighting Designer) is a Chicagobased lighting designer for theatre, dance, opera, and other live performance art and makes his WaterTower Theatre debut with this production. Recent credits include A Doll’s House and A Doll’s House, Part 2 with Denver Center for the Performing Arts, Hairspray with Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and Fetch Clay, Make Man with Dallas Theater Center. Upcoming credits include School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play with Goodman Theatre, Black Odyssey with Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and The First Deep Breath with Victory Gardens Theater. Jason is a proud member of The Association of Lighting Designers and alumnus of The Santa Fe Opera. www.jasondlynch.com
Mark Howard SOUND DESIGNER
MARK HOWARD (Sound Designer) Mark’s work as a sound designer/engineer has been heard in numerous theatres throughout the DFW area. Select sound credits include Mamma Mia, Fly By Night, Secret Garden, Dogfight, the Last Five Years, the Regional Premieres of First Date, The Ballad of Little Jo, Once, Disaster!, Hit The Wall, Welcome to Arroyo’s , Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown, and Big Fish. In addition to his work as a sound designer/ engineer, Mark is also a freelance percussionist in the metroplex. howardsounddesign@gmail.com
Hillary Collazo Abbott P R O D U C T I O N S TA G E M A N A G E R
Hillary is excited to be back for another production at WaterTower Theatre. Past WaterTower Theatre credits include Creep, Sexy Laundry, Lord of the Flies, Lord of the Flies Project, The Big Meal, Outside Mullingar, Native Gardens, Bread, The Last Five Years, Hand to God, A Doll’s House, Everything is Wonderful, The Ballad of Little Jo, and Godspell. Hillary holds a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre and a B.F.A. in International Theatre Production from Ohio Northern University. She is a proud member of Actor’s Equity Association.
Jessica Updike A S S I S TA N T S TA G E M A N A G E R
Jessica is thrilled to be working with WaterTower Theatre again after previously assistant stage managing The Ballad of Little Jo, Everything is Wonderful, and Guadalupe in the Guest Room.
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58 Local DFW creative professionals
worked together to bring this production of SISTER ACT to life onstage.
1 Director
1 Stage Manager
1 Music Director & Conductor
1 Assistant Stage Manager
1 Choreographer
1 Sound Mixer
5 Designers
1 Light Board Operator
9 Musicians
2 Running Crew
4 Electricians
22 Actors
9 Scenic Artists
+ You, Our Community
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