Nov 21 to Dec 08, 2024 SAGEBRUSH THEATRE
A Spine Chilling Theatrical Masterpiece Presents
October 10 to 20, 2024 SAGEBRUSH THEATRE A Tale As Old As Time.
BEAUTY BEAST
The in
Music by ALAN MENKEN I Lyrics by HOWARD ASHMAN & TIM RICE
WOMAN B
ACK
Book by LINDA WOOLVERTON I Originally Directed by ROB ROTH
By STEPHEN MALLATRAT T Based on the novel by SUSAN HILL
DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
Music by ALAN MENKEN | Lyrics by HOWARD ASHMAN & TIM RICE | Book by LINDA WOOLVERTON
Originally Directed by ROB ROTH | Originally Produced by DISNEY THEATRICAL PRODUCTIONS
Incidental Music and New Vocal Arrangements by MICHAEL KOSARIN | Vocals Originally Arranged by DAVID FRIEDMAN Dance Music Arrangements by GLEN KELLY | Orchestrations by DANNY TROOB
CAST
SHELYSE CAMERON Enchantress
OLIVER CASTILLO Lefou
BRIANNA CLARK Belle
DUSTIN FREELAND Gaston
JAKE KOPYTKO Monsieur D’Arque
CAITRIONA MURPHY Mrs. Potts
JENNIE NEUMANN Madame de la Grande Bouche
RON PEDERSON Lumiere
KIRK SMITH Cogsworth
ALI WATSON Babette
CHRISTOPHER WEDDELL Maurice
JACOB WOIKE The Beast
ARCHER VANDERBURGH Chip
YOUTH ENSEMBLE
BRENNA DEWING | RIELLE DMYTERKO | AIZA ABBAS
ANNA MacFARLANE | AUBREY MARRIOTT | ESM É MORRIS
ADRIANNA RANDELL | SARA RUTSATZ | MEER TABREZ
SEREN WILLIAMS
UNDERSTUDIES:
SHELYSE CAMERON (Babette & Lefou), OLIVER CASTILLO (The Beast), DUSTIN FREELAND (Cogsworth), JAKE KOPYTKO (Gaston & Lumiere), CAITRIONA MURPHY (Madame de la Grande Bouche), JENNIE NEUMANN (Mrs. Potts), ALI WATSON (Belle)
CONTINUED...
DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com
BCLC is proud to be the Community Ticketing Sponsor for the 2024-2025 WCT Season.
BCLC is working to generate win-wins for the greater good and celebrates the passion and dedication of local non-profit organizations by giving them access to complimentary tickets to arts and culture and sporting events!
With every play, you’re making BC even better.
CREDITS CONTINUED
CREATIVE TEAM
TRACEY POWER
CLARE WYATT
Director & Choreographer
Music Director
NARDA McCARROLL* Set, Props & Lighting Designer
APRIL VICZKO*
BARBARA CLAYDEN
TREVOR TEWS
Associate Set Designer
Costume Designer
Sound Designer
MORGAN YAMADA Fight Director
STEPHANIE McLEAN
LAUREL ONEIL
ASHLEY REES
TWITCH TOBIN
HANS SAEFKOW
LIZZY KING
Associate Choreographer
Stage Manager
Assistant Stage Manager
Apprentice Stage Manager
Scenic Carpenter & Painter
Youth Supervisor
Approximately 2.5 hours, including a 20 minute intermission
WCT is proud to tell our stories in the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc territory within the traditional lands of the Secwépemc Nation.
THE VIDEOTAPING OR OTHER VIDEO OR AUDIO RECORDING OF THIS PRODUCTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED
WCT Recognizes the generous support of Canadian Actors’ Equity Association
IA
Western Canada Theatre is a member of the Professional Association of Canadian Theatres (PACT) and engages professional artists who are members of Canadian Actors’ Equity Association under the terms of the jointly negotiated Canadian Theatre Agreement.
* Indicated designers on this production are represented by the Associated Designers of Canada, IATSE Local ADC659.
Programme Producer: Western Canada Theatre • wctlive.ca • 250-372-3216
Printer: Wayside Press • waysideco.ca • 250-372-3373
Box Office: Kamloops Live! Box Office • kamloopslive.ca • 250-374-5483
STUDY GUIDE
Explore a Study Guide for Beauty and the Beast with further information and context about the show, useful both to students and general audience.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!
PRESENTING PARTNER
COMMUNITY TICKETING SPONSOR
SEASON SPONSORS
GOVERNMENT FUNDERS
SHOW SPONSOR
TITLE SPONSOR
FOUNDATIONS
OPENING NIGHT SPONSOR
SPECIAL THANKS
GUEST SERVICES
To help ensure a safe and comfortable space for all:
MEDIA SPONSOR
PIZZA PRE-SHOW SPONSOR
EDITH LANDO FOUNDATION
• Stay home if you are ill or have symptoms of COVID 19. If you cannot attend a performance due to illness, please contact our Box Office to arrange a ticket exchange at 250-374-5483 or klbo@kamloopslive.ca.
• Respect the personal space of others and try to maintain 6ft distance when possible.
• Wash your hands and/or use provided hand-sanitizing stations.
For Assistance and Accessibility: Both the Pavilion and Sagebrush Theatres are wheelchair accessible and equipped with wheelchair-seating locations.
Hearing assist listening systems are available at the Sagebrush Theatre Box Office. We’re here to help. If you require assistance, please ask the House Supervisor or one of the ushers.
In consideration of your fellow audience members’ comfort and enjoyment, we ask the following: Electronic Devices: Please turn off all cellular phones and watch alarms prior to the show. Due to copyright regulations, the use of cameras and other video or audio recording of this performance by any means is strictly prohibited.
Late Arrival and Re-admission: If you arrive after a performance has begun or leave the auditorium during the performance, we will make every effort to seat you at an appropriate interval in the program. Please be advised that this may not be the seat you are ticketed for, depending on its location in the theatre. Once it begins, the performance will be streamed on the screens in the lobby for those who need to step out.
Scent-free Facilities: Please arrive perfume/cologne-free and do not bring flowers into the lobby or theatre.
Children: Some WCT productions are not suitable for children. For specific age recommendations and other advisories, go to wctlive.ca/advisories. Babes in arms are only permitted at Relaxed Performances (wctlive.ca/accessibility).
WELCOME!
“Timeless classic” can be an overused term, but in the case of this “tale as old as time,” it’s fitting. Hard to imagine, but the animated film of this Disney classic came out when much of our audience was in their young adulthood – and today you may be sitting here with your children and grandchildren.
Beauty and the Beast is based on an old French story, and it’s wonder-fully French in its characters and joie de vivre. It’s my favourite kind of musical, awash in romance and adventure, with rich but finely drawn comic characters forming an outstanding ensemble. The songs encompass some of the most beautiful melodies in music theatre history, with a couple of wonderful showstoppers. Theatre exists to move us, and in Beauty’s case it brings laughter, tears, and a fullness in our hearts.
In its message, Beauty is also timeless: who among us has not dreamed of moving beyond our “provincial life” only to find love and life close to home? It is of triumphing over adversity through fellowship and elan, as embodied by our magically transformed characters. It is a family story with which most will identify in one way or another.
WCT is very proud to continue this holiday family tradition here at the Sagebrush. We are also proud to play a part in engendering arts appreciation in young people, many who will attend this production for their first theatregoing experience. Participation in the arts at a young age makes for more confident, communicative, and collaborative citizens. If you have a young person in your life whose imagination and creativity are sparked by this show, please have a look at our Stage One Theatre School – your kids are in excellent hands with our fantastic instructors.
Beauty is a story of transformation, redemption, and discovery. These three elements are also the backbone of the theatregoing experience, where we have transformative experiences that allow us to see the world around us with better understanding, and more love and appreciation for those around us. We know you’ll leave this performance with a smile on your face and a song in your heart, and we hope the glow takes you through the holiday season and into the new year. Thanks for being here, and we’ll see you in 2025.
James MacDonald, Artistic Director
I’m over the moon that Beauty and the Beast — a classic from Disney’s golden age — is the first big musical I get to be part of at Western Canada Theatre. The Kamloops community has embraced me with open arms, and I’m deeply grateful to the land and its people for supporting me as I transition into the role of Executive Director. Thanks to the dedication of James, the WCT staff, Board, donors, and volunteers who keep this theatre so alive. Merde!
Matt Eger, Executive Director
September 28 to December 28, 2024
Adrian Romeo, Big Hands (detail),
LIST OF MUSICAL NUMBERS
ACT ONE
“Belle” Belle, Villagers
“Maurice Travels” Maurice
“Me” Gaston, Belle
“Belle (Reprise)” Belle
“Home” Belle
“Home (Tag)” Mrs. Potts, Madame
“Gaston” Gaston, Lefou, Villagers
“Gaston (Reprise)” Gaston, Lefou
“How Long Must This Go On?” Beast
“Be Our Guest” Lumiere, Chip, Mrs. Potts, Castle Staff
“If I Can’t Love Her” Beast
ACT TWO
“Something There” Lumiere, Cogsworth, Mrs. Potts, Chip, Babette, Madame, Castle Staff
“Human Again” Castle Staff
“Beauty and the Beast” Mrs. Potts
“If I Can’t Love Her (Reprise)” Beast
“A Change in Me” Belle
“The Mob Song” Gaston, D’arque, Villagers
“Home (Reprise)” Belle
“Transformation / Finale” Belle, Prince, Ensemble
The Midnight Clear
James Hill and Anne Janelle
Enjoy an evening of re - imagined carols and original winter songs performed by Canadian Folk Music Award - winning ukulele/cello duo, James Hill and Anne Janelle. Presents:
DIRECTOR’S NOTE
A tale as old as time…truly… This magical love story originated long before print culture, spoken and shared with others for entertainment, and it was, most likely, not as child-friendly as the Disney adaptation we’re sharing with you today. It’s a little wild to think that this story has been around so long, and that those who first heard it could only imagine what these nowbeloved characters looked like. It’s a testament to the power of our imaginations and our love of storytelling that this tale still exists today. Technology now offers us endless ways to select, save, and share stories in a visually immediate way… but maybe there’s magic to be found in time… the time taken to share them personally, the time taken to listen, and the time taken to feel their effect on us. There’s no place that encourages us to embrace magic and imagination more than the theatre, so how exciting that we’re all here together today. Thank you for joining us, and I hope that our production of Beauty and the Beast will excite, inspire, and move you to continue sharing... this magical tale as old as time.
Tracey Power Director
HOLIDAY FLEX PASS
APR 03 - 13, 2025 MOTOWN GET
APR 29 - MAY 04, 2025
is a family owned and operated, independent hotel that features two award winning on-site brewhouse restaurants. We pride ourselves in providing exceptional guest service, and our 98 guestrooms and suites offer clean, modern, comfortable accommodations catering to tours, crews, business, leisure and group travel.
Our convenient downtown location places you within steps of all of our local shops, beach side venues, local attractions, sporting venues, lounges, pubs and restaurants
Property amenities include: 24 hour games room, indoor pool & hot tub, fitness room, free wi-fi, in-room coffee/tea service
Groups also have booking privileges for:
room (seats up to 37)
Boardroom (seats up to 8)
Classroom (seats up to 60)
COMPANY BIOGRAPHIES
CAST
SHELYSE CAMERON – Enchantress / Understudy Babette & Lefou
At WCT: Grease
Elsewhere: Shelyse has been performing in the Kamloops theatre and dance community since she was a young child. She has extensive training in the performing arts and attended The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art in England studying Shakespeare. Shelyse is also an actor for screen having recently wrapped production on Astronomy Walkers, which was filmed all the way across the world on Easter Island (where those big stone heads are!). Select Credits: Grease (WCT), Hamlet (LAMDA), Friday Night Live Improv (Alan Marriott), Saving Christmas (coming soon to AppleTV+), Beyond The Woods (AppleTV+/Amazon), Hipsterverse (US/UK channels). When Shelyse isn’t acting, she’s either travelling the world or doing outreach for Indigenous youth and families. Little Shelyse would be over the moon excited to know she’d be a part of this magical show one day. Thank you to my family for being forced to listen to me belt Disney songs growing up… sorry for your hearing loss but hey, it’s paying off! Instagram: @shelyseeey
OLIVER CASTILLO – Lefou / Understudy The Beast
At WCT: Jesus Christ Superstar
Elsewhere: Oliver is an award-winning actor, singer, voice over artist, and puppeteer working in Vancouver, British Columbia. Selected credits include: Jesus Christ Superstar (Thousand Islands Playhouse); Elf The Musical, Mamma Mia!, Hand To God - Jessie Award Nomination, Les Misérables (Arts Club Theatre Company); 9 to 5, Ghost, Mamma Mia! (Chemainus Theatre Festival); Sweeney Todd - Jessie Award Winner, Cabaret (Raincity Theatre); Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, The Music Man (Gateway Theatre); Beauty and the Beast (Disney Cruise Lines). Instagram: @oliverborz
BRIANNA CLARK – Belle
At WCT: Shrek
Elsewhere: Brianna is thrilled to be returning to Western Canada Theatre! A graduate of NYU Tisch’s BFA program, she is a classically trained ARCT pianist and MENSA member. Brianna recently appeared in AppleTV+’s SEE (Jason Momoa, Alfre Woodard), Alaska Daily (Hilary Swank), and When Calls The Heart. Favourite New York/London credits include: Love’s Concordia Bar (Edinburgh Fringe), All I Wanted (The Green Room 42), SINTIS (GR42), For Show (Feinstein’s/54 Below), Breathe (Feinstein’s/54 Below, NYU), Timon of Athens (Timon, Royal Academy of Dramatic Art), Spring Awakening (Ilse, NYU/ Tisch). Regional performances: The Prom (Alyssa Greene), Romeo and Juliet (Juliet), Cinderella (Cinderella), and singing backup for two of Foreigner’s concert tours. So much gratitude to the creative team for this opportunity, and hugs to her friends, parents, and Connor for their continued love and support. Enjoy the show! For contact: www.brianna-clark.com, @briannnaclark (Instagram) Rep: Darren Boidman, Carrier Talent
DUSTIN FREELAND – Gaston / Understudy Cogsworth
At WCT: Debut
Elsewhere: Dustin has recently returned home, from Shanghai, China, after seven years. He was a Grand Opening Cast Member for the Shanghai Disney Resort as a Character and Trainer. Dustin has had the honour and privilege of working with many companies including Bard on the Beach, Theatre Under the Stars, Royal City Musical Theatre, and Carousel Theatre for Young People. Dustin is a graduate of Studio 58.
JAKE KOPYTKO – Monsieur D’Arque / Understudy Gaston & Lumiere
At WCT: Ensemble, Lord Farquaad Understudy – Shrek The Musical (2024), Eugene, Doody & Sonny Understudy - Grease (2023), Ensemble, Cowardly Lion Understudy - The Wizard of Oz (2022), Peter, Young Cratchit, & Young Scrooge - A Christmas Carol (2010)
Elsewhere: A multi-disciplinary artist born and raised in the beautiful city Kamloops, Jake could not be more excited to be back on the Sagebrush stage with WCT for this enchanting production of Beauty and the Beast Jake made his professional acting debut over ten years ago with Western Canada Theatre, and since then it has become a second home to him. Up next for Jake includes the debut Thumblina an adaptation of the beloved Hans Christian Anderson fairytale, and Jake’s first ever playwriting venture! It will debut with Project X/Theatre Under the Trees this upcoming 2025 summer season in Prince Charles Park. As always, lots of love to family and friends. Thank you for the unwavering support. To Mom, Dad, and Alyssa... this one’s for you.
@jakekopytko
CAITRIONA MURPHY – Mrs. Potts
At WCT: Emily in Elf – The Musical Elsewhere: Caitriona Murphy is an actor and musician originally from Toronto. B.C. credits include: Next to Normal, Mary Poppins, Peter and the Starcatcher, Onegin, Billy Elliot, Once, and The Piano Teacher, (Arts Club Theatre; A Broadway Holiday, Closer Than Ever, Anne of Green Gables, and Cinderella (Gateway Theatre); Between the Sheets (Pi Theatre); Les Misérables, Pride and Prejudice (Chemainus Theatre Festival); The Drowsy Chaperone, Mamma Mia!, and The Prom (TUTS); The Spitfire Grill (Pacific Theatre); The Full Monty, Out of a Dream (Patrick Street Productions); A Streetcar Named Desire, The Miracle Worker (Theatre North West); and Marry Me a Little (Speck Theatre). Film and TV credits include: Dash and Lily, The Associates, Fire Country, Wild Cards, In Der Volken, and 2 seasons of Schmigadoon. A singer and violinist, Caitriona has played venues across Canada. Caitriona is an accredited Music Therapist and works in Mental Health and Addiction in Vancouver.
JENNIE NEUMANN – Madame de la Grande Bouche / Understudy Mrs. Potts
At WCT: Debut
Elsewhere: Jennie is thrilled to bring the opera diva with impeccable style to life. Credits include; Doralee in 9 to 5, Molly in Ghost the Musical (Chemainus); The Fox in The Little Prince (Abu Dhabi Arts Festival/Theatre Calgary); Mrs. Phaegan in Parade, Amy in Company (Raincity); Natalie in Next to Normal, Tracy Turnblad in Hairspray, Eponine in Les Misérables (Arts Club). Any must eats in Kamloops? Let Jennie know on Instagram @jennie_neumann
RON PEDERSON – Lumiere
At WCT: Debut
Elsewhere: Ron is an actor, improviser, director, and writer who has worked across Canada with many theatres, including; The Stratford Festival, Soulpepper Theatre, The Tarragon Theatre, CanStage, Coal Mine Theatre, RMTC, Alberta Theatre Projects, Arts Club Theatre, Vancouver Playhouse, Theatre Passè Murielle, The Belfry, and The Citadel Theatre. As an improviser, Ron has also toured and collaborated with companies in Berlin, Oslo, Vienna, Amsterdam, Chicago, LA, and NYC. Ron’s television credits include 3 seasons on MADtv (Fox), The Late Late Show (CBS), Murdoch Mysteries (CBC), Degrassi (CTV), SideKick (YTV), New Eden (Crave), Private Eyes (Global), When Hope Calls (Hallmark), The Next Step (NBC Kids). Ron is the recipient of multiple Canadian Comedy Awards, the Dora Mavor Moore Award, 2 Sterling Awards, The SummerWorks Performance Award, and The RBC Arts Professional Award. Ron is of Cree and mixed-settler descent and proud citizen of The Métis Nation of Alberta. Instagram: @ron_pederson
KIRK SMITH – Cogsworth
At WCT: This is Kirk’s 20th mainstage production at WCT. Some highlights have included playing Buddy in Elf–The Musical, Gaslight, Hurry Hard, Dracula: The Bloody Truth, Boeing Boeing, Fiddler On The Roof, and Noises Off
Elsewhere: Recent favourites include Mary Poppins (RCMT); Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Baskerville, Billy Elliot (The Arts Club); The Rivals (Blackbird Theatre); Don’t Dress For Dinner (Thousand Islands Playhouse); Pride & Prejudice, The Importance of Being Earnest (Persephone Theatre). Kirk has appeared in five seasons with Project X, including playing Frank ‘n Furter in The Rocky Horror Show. He also co-produced and appeared in Someone Who’ll Watch Over Me both in Kamloops and Vancouver. Kirk would like to thank his wife Robyn for being generally amazing and trying to hold their baby in until the show closes. If you aren’t seeing him at this performance, you’ll know why.
ARCHER
VANDERBURGH – Chip
At WCT: Debut
Elsewhere: Ten-year-old Archer Vanderburgh from Kamloops is thrilled to make his debut with Western Canada Theatre in Beauty and the Beast. He enjoys acting, playing the piano, and making those around him laugh. As an avid fan of the Theatre’s annual winter performances, Archer looks forward to sharing his passion for theatre on stage and can’t wait for you to join him on this magical adventure!
ALI WATSON – Babette / Understudy Belle
At WCT: Grease
Elsewhere: BONJOUR!! Ali Is very excited to be back in “The ‘Loops!!” (Go Blazers!) The last time you may have seen her she was in WCT’s production of Grease as Rizzo last Spring and she just couldn’t get enough! Since then she has done shows such as Beautiful: The Carole King Musical with the Arts Club, Little Shop of Horrors with the Arts Club/ Citadel Theatre, Little Mermaid with Persephone Theatre, 9 to 5 with Chemainus Theatre Festival as well as a production of Cinderella with the Gateway Theatre as the title character! She hopes you and your family enjoy this Disney classic!
CHRISTOPHER WEDDELL – Maurice
At WCT: The McLean Boys, Amadeus, Keeper of The Light, Noises Off, The Importance of Being Earnest, Silent Chap, Blithe Spirit, A Christmas Carol, Elf–The Musical, The Sound of Music, The Wizard of Oz, It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
Elsewhere: A graduate of the Vancouver Playhouse Acting School, Christopher has played on stages in Europe and Canada. Christopher is a founding member and past Artistic Associate of Bard On The Beach. Weddell has written several plays, including the book and lyrics for the upcoming musical version of W. O. Mitchell’s Who Has Seen The Wind. Most recently, Christopher has directed Love and Information, and his own adaptation of Gary Geddes poem cycle Falsework (The Canadian College Of Performing Arts). Other directing credits include the Jessie nominated Richard II (Bard On The Beach); Mexico City/Little One (Mad Fox); and Waiting For Godot at Kaspar Theatre, Prague.
In the coming months, he will be directing Boomerangst (Chimera Theatre); Sea Wall (Mad Fox); and his new play Sally Go ‘Round The Moon (Mad Fox). A veteran acting mentor, Christopher has taught acting and Shakespeare workshops in Prague, Lennox, Massachusetts and all across Canada. He is a past recipient of the Edmund Kean Sword Award from Bard On The Beach.
JACOB WOIKE – The Beast
At WCT: Jesus Christ Superstar, Vimy
Elsewhere: Jacob is thrilled to return to the Sagebrush to tell this classic tale on the transformative power of love. Hailing from a farm in the Cowichan Valley, Jacob has appeared on stages across the region and internationally as a singer. Select theatre: As You Like It (The Grand Theatre); Comedy of Errors, Measure for Measure (Bard On the Beach); The Legend of Georgia McBride, Les Misérables (Arts Club); Ghost The Musical (Chemainus); A Little Night Music (Patrick Street Productions). Film: Woman of the Hour (Vertigo Films; dir. Anna Kendrick). Upcoming: Waitress (Arts Club), Every Day She Rose (The Cultch/Zee Zee). Thank you always to Melissa and Shannon, and to the wonderful creative team and cast. For Hod, and my dear friend Ranae.
THE YOUTH ENSEMBLE
AIZA ABBAS
At WCT: Youth Ensemble in Shrek The Musical Elsewhere: Aiza loves singing, theater, video games and travelling. She has been participating in talent shows, plays and musicals since Grade 1. She is part of her school Choir & Honors Choir. In 2023 she played “Charlie” in Popstars: The 90s Musical, and, in 2022 A-Wop-Bop-A-Loo-Bop Musical at her School. She also performed as Moana, in the musical Disney’s Moana Jr in 2022. In 2020 she played Time/Little Girl in the play Everybody, which was hosted by Mount Allison University, NB.
BRENNA DEWING
At WCT: Debut
Elsewhere: Brenna is a dancer, singer, and actor excited for the opportunity to debut with WCT in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. She has received various top provincial awards for her group dance performances, as well as recognition as a solo artist. As a member of Kamloops Performance Company, she has performed in numerous community events and the travelling production More than My Body. Recently, she played Maria in The Sound of Music (School Production) and was a dancer in Tarzan (Wishing Well Parties and Events).
RIELLE DMYTERKO
At WCT: Debut
Elsewhere: Rielle enjoys dancing and teaching at Kamloops Performance Company. She recently danced in a stage production of Tarzan at the Sagebrush (Wishing Well Parties and Events). Alongside a passion for dance, Rielle likes to play the drums and paint.
ANNA MacFARLANE
At WCT: Youth Ensemble in The Wizard of Oz, It’s A Wonderful Life – A Live Radio Play, and Shrek The Musical
Elsewhere: This is Anna’s forth show with WCT, she loved her trip down the yellow brick road, bundling up for It’s a Wonderful Life, playing in Shrek’s swamp, and now she is excited to visit the castle in Beauty and the Beast! Anna has competed in the Kamloops Festival of Arts for the last 6 years. Anna will be performing in the KTHC Musical Theatre Production of Mary Poppins this Spring. In addition to theater Anna’s other hobbies include art, basketball, volleyball, track, singing, and KYSA academy soccer.
AUBREY MARRIOTT
At WCT: Debut
Elsewhere: Aubrey is excited for the opportunity to perform as a member of the Youth Ensemble in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, her first WCT Production. Outside of the theatre, Aubrey stays busy dancing with Kamloops Performance Company and enjoys Rec Soccer with KYSA in the spring.
ESMÉ MORRIS
At WCT: Dancer and Youth Ensemble in Shrek the Musical
Elsewhere: Esmé, a grade 11 French Immersion SKSS student, has brought her love of singing, dancing and acting to the stage in numerous roles. BGTC: Scarecrow, in Wizard of Oz; Diana, in Anne of Green Gables. KISSM: Morticia, in The Addams Family; Mrs. Teavee, in Willy Wonka; multiple roles in Shrek the Musical; Jane, in Mary Poppins. Wishing Well productions: vocals/crew for Tarzan; ensemble, in Cinderella. In her spare time, Esmé loves reading, singing with her sister and dancing.
ADRIANNA RANDELL
At WCT: Debut
Elsewhere: Adrianna Randell is deeply passionate about the arts in her community. With training from the Kamloops Performance Company in various dance genres, she has performed widely. This past year, she qualified for the BC Provincials for the Performing Arts. When not on stage, Adrianna performs at local events supporting Kamloops’ arts scene. She appeared in Wishing Well Parties and Events’ production of Disney’s Tarzan as the Leopard and a dancing Vine and is thrilled to join her first WCT performance with the Youth Ensemble.
SARA RUTSATZ
At WCT: Debut
Elsewhere: Sara LOVES musical theatre. She moved to Kamloops from Kitimat a year ago and loves all the theatre opportunities here. Sara played Ariel in the Dance Gallery’s production of The Little Mermaid last year, and it was a great experience. She is excited for her production with WTC. Some interesting facts about Sara: she’s homeschooled, she was a competitive figure skater, and she enjoys playing the harp.
MEER TABREZ
At WCT: It’s A Wonderful Life – A Live Radio Play. Stage One: Big Bad Wolf (2023), Nelson the Grumpy Cat (2024)
Elsewhere: This is Meer’s second winter production with WCT. Meer is a spirited 12-year-old who loves math, drawing, and acting in equal measure. He also loves traveling, trying new cuisines, and solving math problems. He co-hosts a radio show on CFBX 92.5 FM with his mother. He wrote, illustrated, and recorded an audio version of a book he wrote when he was eight, which you can now find on YouTube. He wants to audition to be the next Spider-Man when he grows up.
SEREN WILLIAMS
At WCT: Brigitta Von Trapp in The Sound of Music. Youth Ensemble in Shrek the Musical
Elsewhere: Seren has enjoyed Kamloops Interior Summer School of Music, where they recently played “Wednesday” in The Addams Family Musical. They have also had many wonderful opportunities to perform with WCTs’ stage one classes, with one of their highlights being “Barry” in The Rehearsal. Seren is 15 and in grade 10, they would like to thank: Their Mom for her constant support as well as all the amazing teachers they’ve had through the acting classes they’ve done. Enjoy the show!
THE CREATIVE TEAM
TRACEY POWER – Director/Choreographer
At WCT: Director/Choreographer for Chelsea Hotel: The Songs of Leonard Cohen, ELF: The Musical; Playwright/Choreographer for GLORY; Director/ Co-Creator of Hey Viola! She also played the roles of Mary Magdalen in Jesus Christ Superstar and Mary in It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play Elsewhere: Tracey works nationally and internationally as an actor, writer, director, and choreographer. Most recently she directed/choreographed Chelsea Hotel: The Songs of Leonard Cohen for The Firehall Arts Centre, School of Rock and The Prom for Theatre Under the Stars in Vancouver, and Created/Directed Nashville Music City and Rock the Canyon for The Mayfield Theatre in Edmonton. She also works in film and TV and was most recently seen in The House of Usher for Netflix. She is the recipient of the Jessie Richardson, Elizabeth Sterling, and Betty Michell Awards. www.traceypower.ca
CLARE WYATT – Music Director
At WCT: Jesus Christ Superstar
Elsewhere: Clare is a music director and accompanist based in Vancouver. She is pleased to be returning to Kamloops after making her WCT debut last season. Select MD credits include: Jesus Christ Superstar (WCT/TIP); Cinderella (Gateway); SIX, Burn the Floor (NCL); Legally Blonde (Align); The Longing and the Short of It (Touchstone); The Elbow Room (Zee Zee); Go, Dog. Go! (Carousel); Company (United Players). Originally trained in classical piano performance, Clare’s artistic practice has grown to include composition, sound design, and computational arts. She holds a Master of Music in Music Technology and Digital Media from the University of Toronto, where she was a SSHRC CGS-M award recipient.
NARDA McCARROLL – Set, Props & Lighting Designer
At WCT: Grease (set), The Wizard of Oz (set), Glory (set/lights), Vimy (set/ lights/costumes) and A Christmas Carol (lights).
Elsewhere: Selected favourite designs elsewhere: Nashville Music City (Mayfield Dinner Theatre); The Woman in Black, Cipher, Sherlock Holmes and the Raven’s Curse, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (Vertigo Theatre); Mermaid Legs (SkirtsAfire Festival); Vigilante (Catalyst Theatre); Cinderella (Rainbow Stage); Peter and the Starcatcher, The Penelopiad, Julius Caesar (Citadel Theatre); Brontë: The World Without (Stratford Festival); Glory, The Drowning Girls (National Tours); The Black Bonspiel of Wullie MacCrimmon, To the Light, Red, Mary’s Wedding (Alberta Theatre Projects). Narda has an MFA in theatre design from the University of Alberta. She was the costume designer for Edmonton’s Shakespeare in the Park for 16 seasons. She also designed the costumes for the feature film Cut Bank. See images of her work at: https://narda.ca/
BARBARA CLAYDEN – Costume Designer
At WCT: Debut
Elsewhere: Recent Costume Design credits include: Hamlet, Lysistrata (Bard on the Beach); Jersey Boys, Kinky Boots (Arts Club Theatre). Barbara has been nominated for 15 and won 8 Jessie Richardson awards for Outstanding Costume Design.
TREVOR TEWS – Sound Designer
At WCT: Jesus Christ Superstar
Elsewhere: Trevor, originally from Alberta and once a chef, transitioned his talents to the world of sound. His career started in studio work before shifting to live sound. At Guilt & Co, he’s been the head tech for a decade, and also played a pivotal role at the Stanley Theatre. Trevor has toured with artists like Dallas Smith, Megan Patrick, JoJo Mason, The Matchstick Skeletons, Aerialists, and Antonio Larosa. His expertise extends to video production and live streaming. His contributions to musicals such as Kinky Boots, The Sound of Music, and Beautiful highlight his versatility in sound and visual production. His most recent sound design was Johnny Cash Ring Of Fire.
MORGAN YAMADA – Fight Director
At WCT: Nellie in GLORY
Elsewhere: Morgan works as a fight director, actor, arts educator, and CoArtistic Producer of Azimuth Theatre. Morgan is a University of Alberta BFA Acting alum and a certified instructor with Fight Directors Canada. Morgan has acted and fight directed in theatres across the country and has been a member of award-winning ensembles. Recent credits include Fight Director for The Play That Goes Wrong (Theatre Calgary, Royal MTC); A Streetcar Named Desire (Theatre Calgary); Prison Dancer, Jersey Boys (Citadel Theatre); The Maids (Putrid Brat); Deathtrap (Teatro Live). Intimacy Direction - FIJI (Shatter Glass Theatre); 10 Funerals (Shadow Theatre); Everybody Goes to Mitzi’s (Teatro Live). Actor - The Three Musketeers, Pride and Prejudice, (Citadel Theatre); GLORY (Chemainus Theatre Festival, National Tour & Original Cast). Assistant Director - Almost a Full Moon (Citadel Theatre). For more info: www.morganyamada.com
STEPHANIE McLEAN - Associate Choreographer
At WCT: Assistant Choreographer – Shrek The Musical; Marty – Greas e; Ensemble – The Wizard of Oz ; Chip – Beauty and the Beast
Elsewhere: Based in Kamloops, Stephanie is a versatile singer, dancer, and actor who has showcased her talents across Canada. A proud graduate of Randolph Academy, she has embraced numerous performance roles and dedicated many years to teaching dance in both Toronto and Vancouver. Outside of her artistic pursuits, Stephanie is a dedicated mom and thrilled to join the talented team at WCT as the Development Manager. This role as Associate Choreographer is especially meaningful to her, as her journey with WCT began when she performed as Chip in Beauty and the Beast in 2007! Stephanie extends her heartfelt gratitude to WCT for their unwavering belief in her and for providing opportunities for growth as an artist. Above all, she is incredibly thankful for the continuous support from her family and friends, with a special shoutout to her three beloved boys!
LAUREL ONEIL – Stage Manager
At WCT: Jesus Christ Superstar, The Wizard of Oz, and The Sound of Music Elsewhere: BOOM (Theatre Calgary, Thousand Islands Playhouse & OffBroadway); BOOMX (Theatre Calgary & Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre); BOOMYZ, The Importance of Being Earnest, Escape to Margaritaville (Theatre Calgary); Flora and Fawna Have Beaver Fever (Lunchbox); The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde, The Extractionist, Murder in the Studio (Vertigo Theatre); Fiddler on the Roof, Priscilla: Queen of the Desert, A Few Good Men, Buying the Farm, Annie & Fiddler on the Loose (Drayton) and 60+ productions at Stage West Calgary, including: Jersey Boys, Legally Blonde, Rock of Ages, Avenue Q, The Producers, Game Show, The 39 Steps, Chicago, Spamalot, Young Frankenstein, Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story.
Laurel would like to dedicate her work to the loving memory of her mom, who helped her find her love of theatre at young age. She would also like to thank her family, friends and RP for their unending love and support.
ASHLEY REES – Assistant Stage Manager
At WCT: Debut
Elsewhere: For Drayton Entertainment: Kiss Me Kate (SM), Fiddler on the Roof (ASM). For Vertigo Theatre: The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (ASM), The Extractionist (ASM) Murder on the Orient Express (ASM). For Lunchbox Theatre: The Ballad of Georges Boivin (SM), Countries Shaped Like Stars (SM). For Sage Theatre: The House of Bernarda Alba (SM).
TWITCH TOBIN – Apprentice Stage Manager
At WCT: Apprentice Stage Manager: Jesus Christ Superstar Elsewhere: Stage Manager: Otosan (Little Onion Puppet Co.); Hey Viola: The Soundtrack of a Life (Fall 2023 BC Tour, Musical Theatreworks). Assistant Stage Manager: Anne of Green Gables (Gateway Theatre). Apprentice Stage Manager: Our Ghosts (Firehall Theatre).
Twitch is thrilled to be back at WCT this season! Twitch is an emerging Stage Manager based in Vancouver, but they also dabble in most things related to technical theatre. Currently, they are working at the Arts Club Theatre Company as a Stagehand! Big love to their family, friends and partner for all of their support.
BRAVO TO OUR DONORS!
Western Canada Theatre gratefully acknowledges the following government agencies, corporations, foundations, and individuals for their generous contributions through sponsorships and/or charitable donations. We thank everyone who plays their important part in helping us to bring the highest quality of work to the broadest possible audience.
Listings based on annual contributions, July 1, 2023 - October 4, 2024
PRESENTING PARTNER
Kelson Group, Ron and Rae Fawcett
TITLE SPONSOR
Sandman Hotel Group
COMMUNITY TICKETING
SPONSOR
British Columbia Lottery Corporation
SHOW SPONSORS
The Comazzetto Group at BMO
Private Wealth
Kruger
KPMG
New Gold
Vivid Orthodontics
Watson Engineering
MEDIA SPONSORS
98.3 CIFM
B-100
Radio NL
K97.5
New Country 103.1
SEASON SPONSORS
Castanet
CFJC TV
Home Hardware
RBC Emerging Artists
Stone Hazell & Company
TD
Thompson Hotel
Wayside
FUNDERS
The City of Kamloops
Canada Council for the Arts Government of Canada
The Province of BC
BC Arts Council
FOUNDATIONS
BC Interior Community Foundation
Vancouver Foundation
Edith Lando Foundation
OPENING NIGHT SPONSORS
Best Western
Black Salt Catering
Celista Estate Winery
Cloverdale Paint
Kamloops Insurance
Pattison Outdoor
Privato
PIZZA PRE-SHOW SPONSOR
Domino’s Pizza
DIAMOND COMPANIONS:
$10,000 +
Anonymous
Michael E. Black and the Late Denise Fortier
Boogie the Bridge Society
RBC Foundation
PLATINUM PATRONS:
$5,000 - $9,999
Bill Adams & Katie McCormick
Hugh & Marilyn Fallis
Rae Nixon
GOLD PATRONS:
$3,500 - $4,999
Anonymous
Mike & Margot Waithe
SILVER PATRONS:
$2,000 - $3,499
Eleanor Haner
Alan & Gwen Kerr
Roland & Anne Neave
Tim Rodgers
James & Barbara Wentworth
COPPER PATRONS:
$750 - $1,999
Anonymous (2)
Judy Basso
Ed & Patti Bruzzese
The Dr. Elspeth M. MacDougall Foundation
Jessie & James Fedorak
Mirella & Bob Holden
Hope Hyslop
Jonathan McCormick
J. Ivor McMahen
& J. Ann Carter Fund
Tanya Mihura
Heather Pullan & Tom Frohlinger
Dennis & Sue Reedman
Susie Safford
Ray & Susan Sewell
Terry Simpson
Colleen Stainton
PATRONS: $500 - $749
Anonymous
Costco Wholesale Canada Ltd.
Fearon Blair
Mavis Chalmers
In Memory of Verna Loretta
Cheramy
Grant & Nancy Chu
Geoff & Kathy Collier
Lois Crown
Fred & Helen R. Cunningham
Valerie Fitger
Allen & Sharon E. Frissell
John Helvoigt
Lyn Holborn
Len & Laurie Marchand
John McCurrach
Robert W. McDiarmid
James MacDonald & Tracey Power
Barbara Prystawa
Ginny Ratsoy
Shelley Sanders
Jo-Anne Kobayashi & Don Shaw
Terry Shupe
David & Rosemarie Stoltze
Dr. Jennifer Takahashi
Jolana Tamajka
Nicole Tougas
Sue Turner
Robert & Jill Walter
John and Sue P. Whitehead
INVESTORS: $200 - $499
Anonymous (2) 1322023 BC Ltd.
Peter & Debra Allik-Petersenn
Ed & Dianne Barker
Francis & Helen Barnett
Ken & Joyce Beck
The Benevity Community Impact Fund
Kathleen Biagioni
Christine Bilbey
Vivian Birch-Jones
Keith & Kathy Boughton
Margaret Brown
Maureen Brown
Norm & Heidi Bryson
Brenda & Ken Christian
Evey & Bill Chursky
Luciana Comparelli
Donna M. Daines
Sinc & Kathy Dalgleish
Norma Dalke
Roxanne Dauncey
Joanne Dennstedt
Larry Dixon
Dan & Denise Douglas
Jim & Martina Duncan
Dawn Ebata
Shirlee Ezowski
Ruth & Michael Fane
Ralph & Mary Jane Finch
Marvyn Fitzpatrick
Sheena & Bill Flynn
Cara Gates
Donna Geefs
David W. Gilmour
Jim & Joan Rosemary Gordon
Ivana & Homer Hamm
Dian Henderson
Lois K. Hollstedt
Bob & Jo-Mary Hunter
Bill & Sally Jennejohn
Rob & Lila Jennejohn
Gail Bonnie Jesten
Bob & Pat King
Wendy Krauza
Janet Kusler
Nancy Leake
Shanno Lebano
Catriona Leger
Barbara Lucas: In Memory of Reg Lucas
Terri MacLennan
Donna Marchand
Lori Marchand
Lori Melnychuk
Sharon Moore
Vic & Sally Mowbray
Dennis & Maxine Mucha
Bruce & Helen Newmarch
Wendy Nielsen
Margaret H. Patten
Laura Piva-Babcock
Tracey Pointer
Karl & Debbie Rainer
Niki & Steve Remesz
Jeanne (Norma) Rodrigue
Christine Rogers:
In Memory of Nathan Floyd
Terry & Susanne Rogers
Paul Ross
Tricia Sellmer
Ethel Sheremeta
Karen Siggers
Diana Skoglund
Al & Marijke Stott
Diane Mary Webb
Barb & Mike Webber
Dave & Maryanne Whiting
Sally & Bob Zryd
BENEFACTORS: $100 - $199
Anonymous (3)
Marilyn Allison
Wendy Bainbridge
Michael Baker
Pamela Bradley
Maureen Margaret Brady
Sue Buzash
Patrick & Jeanne Callahan
Sue Cane
Sharon Carrell
Margaret Chrumka
Jean Crowe
Jeff Cummings
Joan Cummings
Linnea Davies
Carol Dreger
Celia Dyer
Sandy Elizabeth Eastwood
Vic & Diana Endean
Robert & Patricia Esdale
Reno & Marie Fabbro
Glen & Sara Farrow
Faye Fike
Blake & Linda Fox
Louella Garner
Yanni Giftakis
Trudy Goold
Joy Gothard
Peter & Judy Gray
Elsie Griffiths
Cathy Hall-Patch
Helena Hasler
Janice & Blaine Hawkins
Dave Carl Hilton
David Horsley
Heather Inglis
Trent & Melissa Jakubec
Claire Johnson
Valerie Kemp
Sharon Kika
Kats & June Kitamura
Linda LaGroix
Evan & Wendy Lichlyter
Av Loerke
Beverly Martin
Ivan L. Matthews
Kathy McArthur
Rob McInnes
Marilyn McLean
Beth & Jeff Morgan
Mona & Chris Marlene Murray
Kathleen Nadler
Kerry Ness
Diana O’Dare
Daniela O’Fee
Ron & Louise Oyler
Edna Marie Park
Carl Pentilchuk
Chris Pincott: In Honour of Karla Pincott
Cindy Piwowar
Evelyn Pochay
Barbara Puga
Valentina Putoto
Valerie Darlene Rampone
Laura Randall
Cookie Reimer
Jeff & Nicole Reynolds
Joan Roberts
Ron & June Routledge
Lynn Rutherford
Donna Sharpe
Don & Sandy Staff
Angela Stott
Sean Sutherland
Shirley Sze
Laurie Ternier
Glenna Tomlins
Lynne Totten
Marilyn Triggs
John And Jean Webb
CONTRIBUTORS: $25 - $99
Anonymous (6)
Karen Albiston
Robert & Helen Allan
Christine June Anderson
Martha Ashbaugh
Kerrie Roy Brown
Jay Burgomaster
Mike & Gerrianne Clare
Maureen E. Coldicott
Danielle Collins
Laurie Dahlgren
Ivor & Loreen Davies
Teryne DeCraene
Lynda Desrocher
Colin Doyle
Anne Dunn
Beth Dye
David Edamura
Christine Fichter
Andrea Renee Field
Gillian Gaiser
Catherine Garay
Karen & Hardy Grey
Penny Haggarty
Celina Hawkins
Tressa Hiebert
Sara Kathryn Hilliard
Meg & Alan Innes
Rocky Johnson
Wanda Johnston
Bill & Jill Kennedy
Tom & Marian Elizabeth Konopski
Ron & Marilyn MacKenzie
Sharlene & Darren McIlwain
Robert & Marian McLaren
Darren S. Michels
Muriel & Kelly Miller
Ellen Nast
Barrie Ogden
Walter & Polly B. Poohachoff
Trevor Pratt
Debbie Ralston
Cheryl D. Reed
Jane Reed
Mary Jane Reid
Jay Rilkoff
Bill & Beverly Roberts
Lorraine Romanin
Erica Roy
Janet Scruggs
Bea Smith
Samara Staff
Goran Stojsavljevic
Jack & Terry-Lynn Stone
Anna R. Swanson
Colleen Joan Tabata
Dawne Taylor
Carol Todd
Judith Treherne
Justin Waito
Sabrina Weeks
Thomas David Yearwood
WCT STAFF
FINANCE
RON THOMPSON Finance Director
CAROL FRIESEN Accounting Officer
MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
KIRK SMITH Marketing & Communications Director
KRISTINA LYNE Marketing & Multi-Media Manager
AMIRA ALAM Marketing Assistant
LAURA MICHEL Indigenous Community Engagement Coordinator
DEVELOPMENT
SUZAN GOGUEN Development Director
STEPHANIE McLEAN Development Manager on leave
EMILY BROWN Development & Administrative Assistant
PRODUCTION
MORGAN BENEDICT Producer
CHRISTINE LEROUX Producing Consultant
BILL CHABASSOL Production Director
DANIEL JEWISON Technical Director
BRITTNEY MARTENS Head of Properties
SABRINA STACE Head of Wardrobe
ASHLEY HIIBNER Assistant Technical Director
EDUCATION
TERRI RUNNALLS Education & Outreach Director
EMILY BROWN Education & Administrative Assistant
JAMES MacDONALD Artistic Director
MATT EGER Executive Director
VENUE SERVICES
Rentals & Facilities
SKYLAR NAKAZAWA Venue Services Director
GREG BROWN Front of House Manager
JAKE KOPYTKO Assistant FOH Manager
House Staff
DENISE CLEVELAND, SOPHIA DIMOPOULOS, MATTHEW HARDY, NATASHA HOLOWAYCHUK, MAGGIE JONES, LINDA KASSIS, KELSEY LAUNIER, LUCAS LOCHRIE, JULIA MCKIBBON, MALLORY MOGG, REM MURRAY, JESSICA
REID, ELIO STEPHENSON, JANE VIVENTI
Head Ushers
MARY AULIN, BARB DUBOIS-PAYNTER, KAREN FERGUSON, TRUDY GOOLD, KELLY JEFFERY, GEORGINA KNIGHT, WENDY MATHESON, MELODIE PIKE, GREG SAWATZKY
Kamloops Live! Box Office (KL!BO)
MICHELLE CHABASSOL KL!BO Director
STEPHEN FINLAY KL!BO Supervisor
Box Office Representatives
AVIE CACHELIN, LINDA KASSIS, MEGAN
POLACIK, ANN WELLER
Sagebrush Theatre
LIAM BEFURT Venue Technical Director
ADRIAN HARLAND Theatre Technician
JENSEN SCZEBEL Theatre Technician
CASUAL PRODUCTION STAFF (Sep 10 - Oct 30, 2024)
HOLLY ANDERSON, EMILY BROWN, JAKE KOPYTKO, KELSEY LAUNIER, FAEN LINS, FINN MODDER, MALLORY MOGG, REM MURRAY, HANS SAEFKOW, JESS SANTOS, EMILY THIBERT, SHAIMUS THORNE
WCT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
At time of printing (October 2024)
CHRYSTIE STEWART President
TIM RODGERS Past President
SUNNIE ROTHENBURGER Vice President
DIANA SKOGLUND Secretary
SHELLY SANDERS, Treasurer
GERALYN CORMACK
DIETER DUDY
BETH MORGAN
COLLEEN RYAN
GREG SAWATZKY
JOHN SCOTT
ALISON SIDOW
RADHIKA MAIRA TABREZ
David Ross †
Tom Kerr ‡
Judge T.W. Shupe §
Francis Barnett *
Grant Chu *
D. Michael Dobbin *
Sharon Frissell *
Peggy Gilmour *
Mike Latta *
Anne Manson*
Maureen Marshall*
Lanni Shupe*
† Honorary Life Artistic Producer ‡ Founding Artistic Director
§ Honorary Life Chairman
* Honorary Life Member
A SPECIAL THANKS TO ALL OUR VOLUNTEERS!
