WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE PRESENTS
BACKWARDS IN HIGH HEELS
The Ginger Musical OUR 191ST PRODUCTION
about ABOUT “backwards “BACKWARDS in IN high HIGH heels” HEELS” Backwards in High Heels was conceived and developed by Lynette Barkley and Christopher McGovern. The book, musical arrangements and original songs are by McGovern (Lizzie Borden, A Visit To Roswell, Cagney and many other original songs and musicals.) It features vintage movie musical numbers, as well as original songs to showcase the major events in Ginger Roger’s life. The musical takes its title from a quote from a 1982 “Frank & Ernest” cartoon about Fred Astaire and Rogers: “Sure he was great, but don’t forget that Ginger Rogers did everything he did — backwards and in high heels.” A trail blazer, Virginia Katharine McMath, won a Charleston contest in 1925 in her hometown of Fort Worth at age 15. Her nickname, “Ginger,” originated from her younger cousin who pronounced “Virginia” as “Ginja.” Family and friends continued to call her this, and later “Ginger” became the name on the marquees. She eventually borrowed her stepfather, Daddy John’s last name of Rogers. At age 18, she made her Broadway debut and quickly became a star. She was discovered by Hollywood and danced into America’s hearts in a string of 1930s RKO films, partnered with Fred Astaire. Along the way, she had tempestuous relationships with producers, co-stars and many husbands — but none rivaled the importance of her relationship with her mother. A former performer and reporter, Lela Owens, was an extremely strong influence on her daughter, Ginger. Mother and daughter worked together throughout Ginger’s career, with Lela credited as a pivotal influence on her daughter’s early success in New York and in Hollywood. Ginger and Fred Astaire acted in 10 movies together: The Barkleys of Broadway (1949), Carefree (1938), Flying Down to Rio (1933), Follow the Fleet (1936), The Gay Divorcee (1934), Roberta (1935), Shall We Dance (1937), The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle (1939), Swing Time (1936) and WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE
Top Hat (1935). She walked away from her partnership with Astaire at the peak of its success, going on to become an acclaimed actress, as well as one of the industry’s first women to demand equal pay. She won an Academy Award in 1940 for her title role in Kitty Foyle and by 1945, was the industry’s highest paid star. She made 73 movies. She directed her first stage musical, Babes In Arms, at age 74 at The Tarrytown Music Hall! Backwards In High Heels debuted in 2007 at the Florida Stage in West Palm Beach. The show broke box office records in its World Premiere production and has had numerous heralded performances around the country. WBT favorite, Jeremy Benton, is Directing and Choreographing the show, as well as reprising his role of Fred Astaire. He said, “Bringing Backwards In High Heels to the WBT stage is something I’ve been looking forward to. Being a part of the original company was such a fulfilling experience, and portraying one of my childhood idols, Fred Astaire, was not only excitingly intimidating, but a dream come true.” “I am looking forward to introducing the audiences to a side of Ginger that, unfortunately, was so often overshadowed by her dancing counterpart. She fought for everything she earned, and she was way ahead of her time in regards to being a female who stood her ground and negotiated with some of the most powerful men in show business to achieve what she wanted and deserved.” “I couldn’t be prouder of these eight actors, especially my rising star of a leading lady, Darien Crago. She, like Ginger, has so much talent to give. Audiences will walk away feeling they’ve witnessed the emergence of a new theatre star!” – PIA HAAS 1
BILL STUTLER
BOB FUNKING
and
Present
DARIEN CRAGO in
BACKWARDS IN
HIGH HEELS THE GINGER MUSICAL Conceived and Developed by
LYNNETTE BARKLEY and CHRISTOPHER MCGOVERN Book/Musical Arrangements/Original Songs by
CHRISTOPHER MCGOVERN Originally Produced by FLORIDA STAGE Louis Tyrell, Producing Director Nancy Barnett, Managing Director Starring
ERIKA AMATO AVITAL ASULEEN JACOB ben WIDMAR MATT GIBSON SEBASTIAN GOLDBERG RYAN STEER AMY VAN NORSTRAND and
jeremy benton as Fred Astaire
Musical Direction
JOSE C. SIMBULAN
Set Design by
Costume Design by
Lighting Design by
Sound Design by
Properties by
Hair/Wig Design by
STEVEN LOFTUS heidi giarlo andrew gmoser jonathan hatton grumpy’s props jodi manCUSO Production Stage Manager
Assistant Stage Manager
VICTOR LUKAS
JONATHAN STAHL
Assistant Choreographer
Associate Producer
AMY VAN NORSTRAND
LISA TISO
Directed & Choreographed by
jeremy benton Costumes Provided by COSTUME WORLD THEATRICALS Deerfield Beach, FL www.costumeworld.com The development of Backwards in High Heels was partially funded by the National Alliance for Music Theatre’s Producer / Writer Initiative BACKWARDS IN HIGH HEELS is produced by special arrangement with Bruce Ostier BRET ADAMS, LTD. 448 West 44th Street, New York, NY 10036 OPENING DATE: August 13, 2015 CLOSING DATE: September 20, 2015
Musicals for Kids at the WBT
The Great Pumpkin Caper
A couple of plucky kids, a Jack-oLantern and The Tooth Fairy have to save the world from a rapping Powerful Pumpkin that has placed a curse making everyday Halloween! Join us for a funny and lively one hour family musical filled with lovable ghosts and goblins.
Kids: Come dressed in your Halloween costume!
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24 3 SHOWS: 11 AM, 1 PM, 3 PM. ALL TICKETS $17 PLUS TAX (SHOW ONLY).
A young prince travels from another planet with his Magical Moon Dragon and ends up getting locked in Mr. Mooney’s Department Store on Christmas Eve. He’s not alone, because also inside are a little girl named Hope, a couple of thieves, and Mrs. Claus! How will everyone get home in time for Christmas? By calling Santa Claus! Everyone learns the meaning of the holidays through friendship and love in this new and original holiday classic.
SATURDAY, DEC. 12 & 19 3 SHOWS: 11 AM, 1 PM, 3 PM. ALL TICKETS $17 PLUS TAX (SHOW ONLY).
Santa anta Clause and the
Magical MoonDragon
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
PERSONAL SAFETY & COMFORT Please note exits in theatre. Exits are indicated by illuminated “EXIT” signs. For the safety, comfort and enjoyment of yourself and others, please remain seated during the performance. In the unlikely necessity of evacuation, an announcement will be made over the public address system. Westchester Broadway Theatre is completely equipped with automatic sprinkler and smoke detector systems which cover all areas of the theatre. In the event of power failure, a separately powered, totally independent, battery-run lighting system is activated. Should you or one of your party experience illness or unusual discomfort, please notify a service person or management immediately. CAMERAS, RECORDERS The use of cameras and tape recorders during the performance is strictly prohibited by New York State copyright laws. CELL PHONES, BEEPERS Out of courtesy to the performers and everyone in the audience, please refrain from using cell phones and electronic devices in the theatre. Please be sure to turn off the audible features of these devices when in the theatre. GRATUITY Our guests have asked for an approximation of the food portion of the ticket for purposes of determining service gratuity which is not included in the ticket price. An amount equal to one-half of your ticket price should be considered as the dinner portion. Our staff has enjoyed serving you and hopes that our service has been to your satisfaction.
CAST Ginger Rogers ................................................................................DARIEN CRAGO* Fred Astaire .................................................................................JEREMY BENTON* Lela Rogers .......................................................................................ERIKA AMATO* Ethel Merman and others ....................................................... AVITAL ASULEEN Hermes Pan and others ...................................................... JACOB ben WIDMAR* Jack Culpepper and others........................................................... MATT GIBSON* Lew Ayers and others .................................................. SEBASTIAN GOLDBERG Bugs Burke and others ...................................................................... RYAN STEER* Louise and others.........................................................AMY VAN NORSTRAND* Rehearsal Assistant Stage Manager............... AMANDA M. STUART* Dance Captain ............................................................. JEREMY BENTON*
understudies Understudies never substitute for listed players unless a specific announcement for the appearance is made at the time of the performance. For Ginger and Female Impersonator – AMY VAN NORSTRAND*; For Bill McGrath – MATT GIBSON*; For Fred Astaire – RYAN STEER*; For Lela and Louise – AVITAL ASULEEN; For Jack Culpepper – JEREMY BENTON*. * Member of Actors’ equity Association, the only professional union for Actors and Stage Managers.
A B O U T
O U R
S E R V I C E
Westchester Broadway Theatre takes pride in our leisurely cocktail and dining service, which takes you from the moment you enter the theatre until the start of the performance. If you desire a faster pace to your service, please let your servers know, and they will accommodate your special needs. Top off your delicious meal perfectly with one of these scrumptious treats available for purchase!
LUXURY DESSERTS CHOCOLATE MOLTEN LAVA CAKE • LEMON SORBET TURTLE CHEESECAKE OF DISTINCTION PRODUCERʼS HOT FUDGE DELIGHT • APPLE CRISP CARAMEL
Order your choices before the show begins, and enjoy them during the intermission. WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE
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musical numbers – ACT ONE – From Texas to Broadway to Hollywood, and a greenroom to stage to cinema, we follow Ginger Rogers’ journey to stardom.
Overture Fascinating Rhythm Opening......................................Ginger and Company Tame These Feet..................................................................................Ginger They All Laughed/The Charleston Competition............................... Ginger, Man #2 and Man #3 Fascinating Rhythm/The Orpheum Circuit....... Ginger, Lela and Company A Fine Romance..................................................................................Ginger Baby Face.........................................................................Lela and Company I Got Rhythm............Ethel Merman, Ginger, Jack Culpepper and Company Embraceable You................................................ Jack Culpepper and Ginger Babyface (reprise)......................................................................................Lela Domesticity...............................Ginger, Jack Culpepper, Man #2 and Man #3 All My Eggs in One Basket................................................. Ginger and Lela Screentest/They All Laughed (reprise)..................................... Full Company Act I Finale: We’re In the Money.................. George Schaeffer, Bugs Burke, Ginger, Lela and Company
– intermission –
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WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE
mUSICAL NUmBERS – ACT two – entre’Acte They All Laughed/Hollywood Studio ...................................Full Company Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off ....... Ginger, Fred, Hermes Pan and Louise Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off Grand Waltz .................. Ginger and Fred Let’s Face the Music and Dance (trio) ..................... Ginger, Lela and Fred Change Partners .................................Ginger, Lela, Lew Ayers, Jack Briggs, Jaques Bergerac and William Marshall Shall We Dance ......................................................... Fred, Ginger and Lela The Art of Sport ......................... Ginger, Jimmy Stewart, Fred, Bugs Burke, Hermes Pan, Bette Davis, Katharine Hepburn, Marlene Dietrich and Company Pick Yourself Up ................................................................ Ginger and Fred You’ll never Know ................................................................................ Lela But...When?....................................................................................... Ginger Fascinatin’ Rhythm (reprise) Kitty Foyle/The Oscars ....................... Ginger and Company
– Musicians – JOSE C. SIMBULAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . Musical Director/Keyboards KEN ROSS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Percussion/Drums JORDAN JANCZ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bass RON KOZAK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reeds JOHN TILTON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cello VON ANN STUTLER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Musical Contractor
the perfect Gift for any occasion! (914) 592-2222
www.Broadwaytheatre.com WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE
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musical credits “LET’S CALL THE WHOLE THING OFF” (George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin) © 1937 (RENEWED) CHAPPELL & CO. (ASCAP) ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. USED BY PERMISSION . “SHALL WE DANCE” (George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin) © 1937 (RENEWED) GEORGE GERSHWIN MUSIC (ASCAP) AND IRA GERSHWIN MUSIC (ASCAP) ALL RIGHTS ADMINISTERED BY WB MUSIC CORP. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. USED BY PERMISSION. “FASCINATING RHYTHM” (George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin) © 1924 (RENEWED) GEORGE GERSHWIN MUSIC (ASCAP) & IRA GERSHWIN MUSIC (ASCAP) ALL RIGHTS OBO GEORGE GERSHWIN MUSIC (ASCAP) & IRA GERSHWIN MUSIC (ASCAP) ADMINISTERED BY WB MUSIC CORP. (ASCAP) ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. USED BY PERMISSION. “THEY ALL LAUGHED” (George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin) © 1936, 1937 (RENEWED) GEORGE GERSHWIN MUSIC (ASCAP) & IRA GERSHWIN MUSIC (ASCAP) ALL RIGHTS OBO GEORGE GERSHWIN MUSIC (ASCAP) & IRA GERSHWIN MUSIC (ASCAP) ADMINISTERED BY WB MUSIC CORP. (ASCAP) ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. USED BY PERMISSION. “I GOT RHYTHM” (George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin) © 1930 (RENEWED) WB MUSIC CORP. (ASCAP) ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. USED BY PERMISSION. “EMBRACEABLE YOU” (George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin) © 1930 (RENEWED) WB MUSIC CORP. (ASCAP) ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. USED BY PERMISSION. “WE’RE IN THE MONEY” BY AL DUBIN AND HARRY WARREN © 1933 (RENEWED) WB MUSIC CORP. (ASCAP) ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. USED BY PERMISSION. “LET’S FACE THE MUSIC AND DANCE” “CHANGE PARTNERS” “I’M PUTTING ALL MY EGGS IN ONE BASKET” Music and Lyrics by Irving Berlin These selections are used by special arrangement with The Rodgers and Hammerstein Organization, on behalf of the Estate of Irving Berlin. All Rights Reserved.
we are live
Westchester Broadway Theatre employs musicians from the American Federation of Musicians. Musicians perform from a location backstage. 8
WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE
“Every ingredient that the perfect musical should have.” – The New York Times
An Absolute Jewel of American Musical Theatre takes to the WBT Stage!
SEPTEMBER 24 – NOVEMBER 29, ’15 and DECEMBER 30, ’15 – JANUARY 31, ’16
DON’T MISS A THING!
Download the WBT App today! A Taste of Broadway & fine dining awaits you and the WBT App puts it all at your fingertips! View Show Schedules Access Special Promotions & Discounts Purchase Tickets, Gift Certificates and Season Subscriptions Get all the Info on Upcoming Shows Plus Directions and More
WHO’S WHO DARIEN CRAGO (Ginger) is truly honored to be portraying this beloved woman. Most recently, she played Peggy in 42nd Street beside Ms. Karen Ziemba (The Lex), participated in a workshop of Top Hat (dir/ choreo Chris Gattelli), and was in an Irving Berlin tribute with Randy Skinner (92Y). Earlier this year, Darien performed in two City Center Encores! productions: Lady, Be Good! (tap dancing alongside Tommy Tune) and Paint Your Wagon (featured pas-de-deux). Nat’l Tour: White Christmas. Regional Highlights: World Premiere of Holiday Inn (Goodspeed, Muny), Randy Skinner’s Dames at Sea, and Thoroughly Modern Millie (Paper Mill). Many thanks to Jeremy, The Mine, and my new Westchester family! Love to O & D.
COLUMBUS DAY CELEBRATION
a ! l l e B Ciao STARRING
Vincent Talarico AND HIS BAND
Monday, October 12
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JEREMY BENTON (Fred Astaire; Director/ Choreographer) is just back from playing Bert in The Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma’s production of Mary Poppins. He was recently seen playing Bob Hope in The York Theatre Company’s premiere production, Cagney The Musical. Jeremy was last seen at WBT playing Phil Davis in Irving Berlin’s White Christmas and Don Lockwood in Singin’ In The Rain. Favorite performances include Billy Lawlor in 42nd Street (Broadway - opposite Shirley Jones), Billy Crocker in Anything Goes (National Tour - opposite Rachel York), and Kenneth Gibson in Call Me Madam (Lyric Theatre - opposite Beth Leavel). Other credits include: Film: The Producers. City Center Encores: Gentlemen Prefer Blondes - (w/ Megan Hilty). Off Broadway: Jimmy Shreve in Countess of Storyville (w/ Deborah Cox), Jerry Adaire in Peg O’ My Heart. American/World Premieres: Stormy Weather (w/ Leslie Uggams), Raymond Neff in The Witches of eastwick. Regional: Don Lockwood in Singin’ In The Rain, Wally Winston in Animal Crackers, and Bobby Child in Crazy For You. Upcoming: This winter, Jeremy returns to the role of Phil Davis in the National Tour of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Much love and thanks to WBT, CTG, and MJM. Visit: www.jeremybenton.net
PRIVATE LUXURY BOXES
Enhance your evening with a Private Luxury Box Celebration! For an additional cost, private Luxury Boxes may be reserved for parties of six or more. Each provides elegant dining, has its own private powder room, and overlooks the audience and stage.
For more info, call our Luxury Box Rep at (914) 592-8730 WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE
WHO’S WHO ERIKA AMATO (Lela) WBT Debut! Some recent theatre credits include: National Tour: Flashdance – The Musical (Miss Wilde). Off-Broadway: Signs Of Life (Berta), The Sphinx Winx (Cleopatra). Regional: Into The Woods (Witch), Hairspray (Velma), Cinderella (Fairy Godmother), How To Succeed… (Miss Jones), White Christmas (Betty), Sleeping Beauty Wakes (Bad Fairy - LA Ovation Nomination), Anything Goes (Reno - ITL Awards Nomination), nine (Luisa - OC Weekly Awards Nomination), The Sound Of Music (Maria - OC Register Best Actress). TV/film credits include Quantum Leap, Buffy The Vampire Slayer, and Disney’s enchanted. Erika has also released 5 albums with her band, Velvet Chain. www.erikaamato.com
SIMPLY DIAMOND
Brian La Blanc Returns in a Stunning Live Performance! SWEET CAROLINE CRACKLIN’ ROSIE FOREVER IN BLUE JEANS
Tuesday, October 20
AVITAL ASULEEN (ethel Merman and others) is thrilled to be back in Elmsford after playing Mrs. Snoring Man in WBT’s production of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Avital recently played Ms. Shields in the National Tour of A Christmas Story, and is delighted to be returning to the show this holiday season. Favorite regional credits include Anytime Annie in 42nd Street, Sweet Sue in Sugar, and dancing in productions of no, no, nanette, On Your Toes, and Cabaret. Avital is also the creator of The Choreography Lab at The New York Theatre Barn. Many thanks to Jeremy, Lisa, and this incredible cast, and love to my family, friends, and Dann. www.Asuleen.com
JACOB ben WIDMAR (Hermes Pan and others) Broadway: The Book of Mormon, Xanadu (u/s Whoopi Goldberg), Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Tours/ NY: The Book of Mormon, Mary Poppins, White Christmas, nO, nO, nannette (Encores!). Original productions: White noise (La Petit), White Christmas (Pantages, L.A.), and Dancing in the Dark (Old Globe). Regional: Goodspeed, Paper Mill, Reprise!, Sacramento Music Circus, and more. Proud AEA member.
THE VIDEOTAPING OF THIS PRODUCTION IS A VIOLATION OF THE UNITED STATES COPYRIGHT LAW AND AN ACTIONABLE FEDERAL OFFENSE
When Swing Was King BENNY GOODMAN TRIBUTE
LIVE CONCERT – MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9 WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE
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WHO’S WHO MATT GIBSON (Jack Culpepper and others) Broadway: Gypsy. OffBroadway: The Underclassman (Prospect/ The Duke), New Girl in Town (Irish Rep). Favorite Regional AEA Roles: Jimmy (Thoroughly Modern Millie), Slank/ Hawking Clam (Peter and the Starcatcher), Curly and Will (Oklahoma!), Tulsa (Gypsy), Phil (White Christmas), Claude (Hair), Lt. Cable (South Pacific), Cornelius (Hello, Dolly!). Workshops: Lippa Project (Spruce Lake Theatrical), Queen Mother (Goodspeed Musicals). Other: Woody (Toy Story: The Musical) Disney Cruise Line, Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Metropolitan Opera, PBS Great Performances, I Am Harvey Milk (Avery Fisher Hall), On the Rocks Film (co-founder). BFA: NYU Tisch/CAP21. www.mrmattgibson. com. Big thanks to Jeremy for this opportunity.
Sebastian Goldberg (Lew Ayers and others) is originally from Lexington, MA and is thrilled to be back on the Westchester Broadway Theatre stage after appearing in Mary Poppins last summer. Sebastian grew up in a dancing family, and has had a lot of fun pursuing a career in musical theater and dance. Favorite credits include Crazy For You, Singin’ in the Rain, 42nd Street, and being a member of the original touring cast of Tap: the Show. Thanks to his parents, castmates, and friends.
RYAN STEER (Bugs Burke and others) is excited to be making his Westchester Broadway Theatre debut and paying tribute to a legend. National tours: Anything Goes, A Chorus Line. Regional: Paper Mill, McCarter, Lyric OKC, Arizona Broadway. He is a graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma and of the William Esper Studio in New York. He would like to thank Jeremy for this opportunity, his fellow cast and crew for their work and inspiration, MSA, his loving family, and his besties for keeping him together. Amy Van Norstrand (Louise and others) is thrilled to dance her way onto the Westchester Broadway Theatre Stage! Proud Point Park University grad. Recent credits include: St. Louis MUNY (Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn), The Goodspeed Opera House (Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn/World Premier), Papermill Playhouse (Thoroughly Modern Millie), Gateway Playhouse (42nd Street, Singin’ in the Rain, 9 to 5 the Musical, White Christmas), Maltz Jupiter Playhouse (Thoroughly Modern Millie), Ogunquit Playhouse (9 to 5 the Musical, Thoroughly Modern Millie), and the John W. Engeman Theater (42nd Street). Many thanks to Jeremy, Lisa, and my amazing family for their constant love an support. For my fiancé Brian; I cannot wait until October 12th!
Special Notices Keyboard Programming by STEPHEN FERRI Set Construction & Installation Scene Works, Ossining, NY Extra Special Lighting Equipment provided by SILENT G PRODUCTIONS, Yorktown Heights, NY Assistant Lighting Designer kevin gleason Stitcher PAMELA CUMMINGS
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WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE
WHO’S WHO JOSE C. SIMBULAN (Music Director) is thrilled to be back at WBT after assisting with Godspell and last summer’s The Wizard of Oz. Broadway pit credits include Lestat and the revival of A Chorus Line. He recently conducted West Side Story at the Merry-Go-Round Playhouse, and assisted with Man of La Mancha starring Anthony Warlow at the Shakespeare Theatre Company in Washington, DC. Other DC-area credits: Sunday in the Park with George and Oklahoma! at Arena Stage, and The Kennedy Center’s Sondheim Celebration. He also serves as the accompanist for the Unified Professional Theatre Auditions (UPTA) and Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC) - 22 years! STEVEN LOFTUS (Scenic Designer) has been one of our resident designers since Kiss Me, Kate in 2002. Some of his favorites at WBT include Gypsy, Phantom, Aida, Miss Saigon and In the Heights. As a set designer, Steve has provided scenery for many regional theaters, colleges and high schools around the Tri-state area. As well as a few tours and special events at Lincoln Center. Steve is also the owner of Scene Works Inc., a fully serviced scene shop providing all aspects of scenic design and fabrication based out of Ossining, NY. He is most proud to be a father to Elias and Aubrey.
Tuesday, October 27 Featured Star of Broadway’s Hit, “The Illusionist.”
WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE
HEIDI GIARLO (Costume Designer) has been with Westchester Broadway Theatre since our 1995 production of Guys and Dolls. Since then, she has designed 12 productions for the WBT. She spent time in the wardrobe and prop department at the WBT before working for LIVENT as the house manager for The Ford Center for the Performing Arts (Ragtime, Jesus Christ Superstar). In 2001 Heidi returned to the WBT as the box office manager and currently runs our Group Sales and Special Events department. Just like Norma Desmond, she is happy to make her “return!” to be a part of the Backwards in High Heels team. - For David. ANDREW GMOSER (Lighting Design) has lit all of our mainstage productions since 1990. Over the years he has created the sets and/or lighting for a multitude of productions throughout Westchester and beyond, and is a proud recipient of the Cab Calloway Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Performing Arts in Westchester. Andrew loves his job designing lighting for all levels of theatre, from high school programs through professional Broadway-caliber productions. For over thirty years he was set and lighting designer (and from time to time, director) for Asbury Summer Theatre, and is prepar-
Playing the Best Modern Country Music in a Show That’s One Big Party!
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10 13
WHO’S WHO
BEATLEMANIA NOW
“EXTRAORDINARY” – NEW YORK DAILY NEWS Monday, November 16
America’s Most Patriotic Musical Show!
Tues., November 17 MATINEE & EVENING
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ing for his 23rd season with the MacHaydn Theatre in upstate New York. Through his company, Silent G Productions, Andrew provides theatrical lighting design, equipment, and consultation for live theatre, dance, and concerts. Andrew’s best and most important production is with his lovely wife, Catherine: their sixteen year old twins, Thomas and Elizabeth! Thank you, Bob. VICTOR LUKAS (Production Stage Manager/ Properties) is happy to be home after spending many years touring the country and having played in every state. Broadway and Equity National Tours include: Bring Back Birdie, Oh Brother, Joe’s...Coat, Cats, Teddy And Alice, One night Stand, Woman Of The Year w/ Lauren Bacall, the Twyla Tharp/Billy Joel musical Movin’ Out, Cy Coleman’s Welcome To The Club and Barnum, Star of Indiana’s Blast!, Blood Brothers with Petula Clark, Carole King and Shaun & David Cassidy, and Disney’s Aida. For the WBT he has stage managed many shows including the acclaimed Aida and Little Shop of Horrors, both directed by Patricia Wilcox; Richard Stafford’s Gypsy with Karen Mason; and Jonathan Stahl’s nine. OffBroadway shows include Annie Warbucks, Travels With My Aunt, Tuesday’s With Morrie, and Joan Of Arc with Glenn Close. Favorite gig – Touring with Petula Clark on her 2008 concert tour of England and Wales. Victor also runs “Grumpy’s Props,” a prop rental shop in Carmel NY. Grumpy’s Props also specializes in home & commercial decorating for holidays & theme parties. Visit us online at www.grumpysprops.com. VON ANN STUTLER (Musical Contractor) Since the inception of the theatre 41 years ago, Von Ann has been responsible for putting together the excellent musicians which make up our orchestra. Each show has unique instrumentation requirements. Von Ann, in consultation with the musical director, determines the makeup and particular talented personnel to fulfill the show’s requirements. Von Ann is a musician having training in clarinet, piano and harp. She was a voice major at Michigan State University. She has raised 5 children and is the proud grandmother of 7 (four girls and 3 boys). LISA TISO (Associate Producer) is happy to be a part of the WBT family which she joined in 1979 as a buffet girl. Lisa has worked in nearly every department in our organization and, since 1991,
WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE
WHO’S WHO
“Z” TRAVEL & LEISURE WALKING & BUS TOURS
Live Musical Coach Bus Tour Full Day of live music as we travel throughout Manhattan.
Our Actors Equity singer will perform on the bus as we discover New York and hear great voices. Along the way learn about NY from licensed guides!
• Historical Broadway Musical review! • Cultural • Anecdotal humor • Themed • Neighborhoods For Individuals, Seniors, Corporations, Schools, Family Outings & Groups of Any Size For more information Email us at: marscot@att.net Call us at: (914) 633-6658 Catch us on the web at: www.ztravelandleisure.com Pick up at local locations!
“The Most Unique Theatre Experience and Entertaining Tour” Numerous stops on & off bus, lunch stop & minimal walking!
as Associate Producer and as Producer on over 25 mainstage productions. Lisa and her 21 year old daughter, Carmen live in Ardsley with Maximus, their very own Toto. BOB FUNKING AND BILL STUTLER (Owners / executive Producers) On July 9, 2015, the Westchester Broadway Theatre proudly celebrated its 41ST ANNIVERSARY, as well as the 25th Anniversary in this specifically designed, state of the art theatre. Bill and Bob, 2004 inductees into the “Westchester County Business Hall of Fame,” pioneered the Dinner Theatre concept in Westchester when they opened An Evening Dinner Theatre on July 9, 1974. Having designed and built An Evening st
WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE
A CAROL FOR A LATER CHRISTMAS
This Delightful New Musical Picks Up 12 years after “A Christmas Carol”
DECEMBER 3 – 27, 2015 from the ground up as a theatre that serves dinner and lunch, they established their operation as a cultural mainstay in the tri-state area. The Westchester Broadway Theatre is the only year round theatre in Westchester where Broadway performers, directors and designers gather to create the best in Musical Theatre. (They have produced more shows than most Broadway producers. Backwards In High Heels is our 191st Mainstage Production.) The Westchester Broadway Theatre is the longest running, 52 week a year Equity theatre in the State of New York. Each show is produced exclusively for the theatre and each is approached in the same manner as Broadway Productions: casting Broadway performers at auditions in New York City, and hiring the creative staff (Directors, Choreographers, Musical Directors, Set, Costume and Lighting Designers). On the dark nights of the musicals, Bill and Bob have presented over 900 Monday and Tuesday night specials and, in 1997, inaugurated the Gold Star Series of Concerts presenting Jackie Mason to a sold-out house. Other great performers in the Gold Star series have been Tom Jones, George Carlin, Paul Anka, Wayne Newton, and Harry Belafonte. With the continued support of the people of the tri-state area, we pledge to continue to present the best in theatre and dining.
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WHO’S WHO ACTORS’ EQUITY ASSOCIATION (AEA), founded in 1913, represents more than 45,000 actors and stage managers in the United States. Equity seeks to advance, promote and foster the art of live theatre as an essential component of our society. Equity negotiates wages and working conditions, providing a wide range of benefits, including health and pension plans. AEA is a member of the AFL-CIO, and is affiliated with FIA, an international organization of performing arts unions. The Equity emblem is our mark of excellence. www.actorsequity.org
IN THE
Christmas
M
WITH THE
D
GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA
Tuesday, December 8 MATINEE & EVENING
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One Broadway Plaza, Elmsford, NY 10523 Box Office (914) 592-2222 Business Office (914) 592-2268 www.BroadwayTheatre.com ADMINISTRATION Bill Stutler - President Bob Funking - Vice President / Treasurer Lisa Tiso - Producer / Company Manager Jeffrey Lifrieri - Assistant Treasurer / HR Manager Janet Schwartz - Internal Auditor Arlene Tiso - Bookkeeper Pia Haas - Press / Public Relations Director Steve Calleran - House Manager Tarah Vega - House Manager BOX OFFICE Ron Schlichting - Box Office Manager GROUP SALES Heidi Giarlo - Manager (914) 592-2225 Jessica Tucci - Group Sales Coordinator (914) 592-2225 Patrick McGillicuddy - (914) 592-2225 Helen DeLago - (203) 637-9393 Joanie Varela - (646) 385-2936 LUXURY BOXES/GROUP SALES Ginny Baisi - (914) 592-8730 KITCHEN Alex Sampaio - Chef Ryan Stutler - Dining Room Manager Ann Marie Mosca - Asst. Dining Room Manager TECHNICAL STAFF Aaron Cassese - Automation Mike Amabile - Deck Audio Rana Attia - Wardrobe Kayla Brought - Props Seth Crosby - Deckhand Sarah Demarest - Sound Engineer Kristine Kuligowski - Light Board Operator Colleen Till - Wardrobe
ALL PERSONS SEEKING ADMISSION MUST HAVE A TICKET, including children of any age. IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING BRINGING A CHILD to the theatre, feel free to contact the Box Office with any questions regarding the content of the show. Although opinions on appropriate viewing may differ, we will do our best to answer your questions regarding language, violence and adult situations.
Program Design by Ferguson Marketing President: Raymond Ferguson Art Director: Christine Fiedler Sarasin 175 North Main Street, Branford, CT 06405 (203) 488 5262 Produced For Westchester Broadway Theatre By Today Media Custom Communications 2 Clinton Avenue, Rye, NY 10580 (914) 345 0601 Ext.117 WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE