onstage spring/summer 2011

BLUMENTHAL PERFORMING ARTS

onstageSpring/Summer 2011

BLUMENTHAL PERFORMINGARTS CENTERBelk TheaterBooth PlayhouseStage Door Theater

KNIGHT THEATERLevine Center for the Arts

SPIRIT SQUAREMcGlohon TheatreDuke Energy Theatre

SNAP. TAP. ROCK. ROLL.SNAP. TAP. ROCK. ROLL.

THE LIFETIMEOF A ROLEQ&A With Alice RipleyOn Tony® And Pulitzer Prize-Winning NEXT TO NORMAL4

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TICKETS: 704.372.1000 • BlumenthalArts.org

TABLE of CONTENTSBOARD ofTRUSTEESAmy Rice BlumenthalSam BowlesSue BreckenridgeJames BullockJoni Y. DavisJames F. DownsCharlie ElbersonWalter D. Fisher, Jr., Past-ChairDorlisa K. Flur, ChairDr. Peter C. GormanGreg HaislipCharles L. HarringtonSally HawkRebecca HendersonSteven A. HockfieldW. Todd HouserSunny Harris HutchinsonSusan Jamison, SecretaryLloyd E. JohnsonJohn LassiterDr. Joan LordenDr. Edith Valladares McElroyEdwin B. Peacock IIIRick D. Puckett, TreasurerJennifer RobertsAnne StolzGregory L. TaylorCatherine Warfield

ONstage

We welcome your feedback and suggestions.Please contact Crystal Dempsey, 704-348-5787or [email protected] the Cover: ALICE RIPLEY IN THE NATIONAL TOUR OF NEXT TO NORMAL.PHOTO BY CRAIG SCHWARTZ. MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET ORIGINAL BROADWAYCAST. PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS; KELLY FELTOUS AS EVA (LEFT) AND AMANDA LEALAVERGNE AS CAMPBELL (RIGHT) IN THE 2011 ALLIANCE THEATRE PRODUCTION OFBRING IT ON: THE MUSICAL; ORIGINAL BROADWAY CAST OF COME FLY AWAY; WESTSIDE STORY KYLE HARRIS AND ALI EWOLDT. © JOAN MARCUS, 2010.

Editor-in-Chief Crystal Dempsey

WritersLiz Bertrand

Aleigh AcerniDaniel Knaub

Graphic Designer Jessica Stanley

Letter from the President ................................................3

Center News Briefs ................................................4-5

Board Chair Outlines Vision ................................................6

The Funny Guys of CHARLOTTE SQUAWKS................................7

2011-12 Duke Energy Broadway Lights Series....................8-13

Q&A With Alice Ripley of NEXT TO NORMAL ..............14-15

CATS Makes the Most of Its Nine Lives ..............................16

Volunteers Play a Starring Role in Every Performance ..................17

Calendar of Events ..............................................18-19

Students Enjoy Broadway, Blumenthal Experiences..................20

Development News ............................................21-23

Spring/Summer 2011

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Volunteer ushers welcome and assist theater-goers to their seats.

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Facebook.com/NCBPAC Twitter.com/BlumenthalArts YouTube.com/NCBPAC

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Dear Friends:

We’re thrilled that seven of Broadway’s hottest newshows will be on our stages next season in the DukeEnergy Broadway Lights Series. You’ll see the mostrecent Tony Award® winners: MEMPHIS, the 2010Tony Award® winner for Best Musical, and LACAGE AUX FOLLES, the 2010 Tony Award®

winner for Best Musical Revival.

The sensational JERSEY BOYS “is making its wayback to you” after breaking the Belk Theater boxoffice record in 2010, while the music of morelegendary stars drives MILLION DOLLARQUARTET, a show about the night Elvis, JohnnyCash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins jammedtogether.

Because of your support, Charlotte is now a Top 10city for touring Broadway, making it possible for usto get the best and newest titles, like the currentBroadway revival of WEST SIDE STORY, TwylaTharp’s homage to Sinatra - COME FLY AWAY, andTHE ADDAMS FAMILY. BRING IT ON: THEMUSICAL is a brand new show on its way to NewYork that combines some of Broadway’s mosttalented creative people to tell a story about thehighly competitive world of cheerleading.

This spring, more than 4,000 students attendedperformances of MOMIX: BOTANICA and GarthFagan Dance. Master classes featuring both groupsalso occurred at high schools and colleges throughoutthe region. In mid-April, nearly 1,100 studentsrepresenting 27 elementary and middle schoolsparticipated in our Broadway Junior TheaterCelebration.

In this issue of OnStage, you’ll read about DorlisaFlur, the new Chair of our Board of Trustees. Dorlisahas found time to provide leadership to manyimportant community initiatives and nonprofits,while serving as an Executive Vice President atFamily Dollar. We were very lucky to bring her on toour Board several years ago. It is not unusual for meto get emails from this very busy and talentedwoman at 1:30 a.m. We are very blessed to haveDorlisa as our Chair.

A sizzling summer is coming up with plenty ofgreat shows to draw you uptown. CATS, SHREK:THE MUSICAL, MAMMA MIA and the PulitzerPrize winning musical NEXT TO NORMAL willplay engagements at Belk and Knight Theaters.NEXT TO NORMAL features Alice Ripley in thelead role, one which she originated and received aTony Award® for on Broadway. Charlotte is the onlycity in the Southeast selected to host this remarkable“feel-everything” musical about a family’s strugglewith a mother’s mental illness. The show is at KnightTheater July 12-16, and I urge you not to miss it.

Thanks so much for your support of theBlumenthal. We look forward to seeing you heresoon!


Tom GabbardPresident

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Affinity Groups often enjoy free pre- or post-show mixers and significantticket discounts. The groups include Charlotte Live: Middle School,Charlotte Live: High School and Charlotte Live: College; Teachers Loungefor educators; Club Blume for 20- and 30-somethings; and Out on theTownfor the LGBT community.

OnMarch 8, Club Blume hosted an AVENUEQ “informance,” a behind-the-scenes presentation for 60 people at Duke EnergyTheatre in SpiritSquare. They received hands-on training from local puppeteer Drew Nolin,who taught them about puppet construction and manipulation. Thepre-show mixers often happen with the help of generous restaurant partnerssuch as Blue, Chima, Enso and Rock Bottom.

For more information: BlumenthalArts.org/Affinity. Also, check out thegroups’ Facebook pages: Facebook.com/OutontheTown;Facebook.com/ClubBlume; Facebook.com/TeachersLounge123 andFacebook.com/CharlotteLive.�

NEWSbriefs

AFFINITY GROUPS OFFER A CHANCE TO LEARN AND CONNECT


MOMIX Artistic Director Moses Pendleton (left) explains how a piece comes together to the TweetTarts gathering on Feb. 23 in the VIP Room atKnight Theater. The group attended a performance of MOMIX: Botanica.

Facebook: Fans often share their enthusiasm for shows and offermini-reviews, but they also like to engage in contests and giveaways.More than 1,000 people have entered contests since Dec. 1. Over 200uploaded photos of their cats for a CATS contest. Make sure youcheck out the tabs underneath our always changing profile photo! Areyou a fan? Become one at Facebook.com/NCBPAC.

URL change: To reflect the organization’s branding decision tobecome Blumenthal Performing Arts, BlumenthalCenter.org is nowBlumenthalArts.org. The old URL still works, but you’ll seeBlumenthalArts.org more and more often as the transition continues.

Digital publications: Playbills for the shows in the Duke EnergyBroadway Lights Series and issues of OnStage are available on ourweb site and at Issuu.com/BlumenthalPerformingArts. You’ll also findthe playbills on the show event pages in case you forget your copy atthe theater!

Let us know what you think of the Blumenthal’s online efforts!Contact Communications Manager Crystal Dempsey:[email protected] or 704.348.5787. �

Blumenthal Performing Arts continues to develop its digital brand asmore and more people are getting their information and makingplans online.

Here are some of the latest developments:

Twitter: A group of Charlotte women have become some of theBlumenthal’s biggest online ambassadors. The TweetTarts are womenwho met or connected via Twitter. Last summer, they attendedGIRLS ONLY. This season, they have received invitations to seeCelebrity Autobiography, MOMIX: Botanica, where they met ArtisticDirector Moses Pendleton before and after the show, and AVENUEQ. The women routinely post about the performances on Twitter,Facebook and on their blogs. Search for #TweetTarts on Twitter to seewhat they’ve been saying!

Email: Look for more educational and exclusive content in emails.The goal is to help more people learn more about the incredibleshows that the Blumenthal is presenting. For example, the “In TheSpotlight” emails on the 2011-12 Duke Energy Broadway LightsSeries will give you more information – from videos to show trivia –about the shows.

ONLINE AND SOCIAL: BLUMENTHAL PERFORMING ARTS IS THERE

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An entry in the CATS Facebook contest from Mary Wright: “Meet Leo,my very own Rum Tum Tugger but you can't help but love him.”

Drew Nolin showsa Club Blumemember how tomanipulate apuppet. Nolinbrought an arrayof puppets for hisClub Blumeinformance. Photosby Jessica Jarvis


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As budget cuts affect local school systems, Charlotte’s culturalcommunity came together to keep the performing arts accessible tostudents.

In late February, more than 3,000 students and teachers saw MOMIX’sBOTANICA at Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts throughthe efforts of Blumenthal Performing Arts and the Arts & Science Council.

Blumenthal Performing Arts provided tickets to three school showperformances while an ASC grant provided busing subsidy for manyschools. Over 2,000 students in Title 1 Schools received free ticketswhile others paid only $5.

To help local elementary teachers prepare their students for MOMIX:BOTANICA, Blumenthal's Education Department sent localteaching artists to 93 classes in eight schools during January andFebruary. Nearly 2,000 students participated in workshops related toscience and movement, learning concepts that would enhance theirtheatre-going experience.

In “Botanica,” the world renowned MOMIX combines illusion,dance, puppetry and spectacular sets and costumes to create afantastic vision of nature on stage. �

MORE THAN 3,000 STUDENTSAND EDUCATORS ATTEND MOMIX:BOTANICA PERFORMANCES For two years, Circle de Luz, a non-profit that provides mentoring and

programming support to Latina middle- and high-schoolers, has takenits students to see a Blumenthal show. The organization uses part of itsfinancial resources to attend one show a year because of the totalexperience it provides.

“From getting dressed up for a special occasion to seeing the vibrancy ofdowntown Charlotte, from being exposed to the thrilling nature ofmusical theater to being exposed to new types of music or dance, fromseeing themselves on the stage to seeing possibility on stage, ourexcursions to Blumenthal events have been priceless,” says RosieMolinary, founder of Circle de Luz. “Our participants are impressed,energized and inspired every time they leave the theater.”

Working with the Group Sales Department is convenient and trouble-free. “The Group Sales department has been very easy to work with andvery flexible with us as we make our plans each year,” said Molinary. “It’sbeen easy to organize and worth every dollar we’ve spent.”

Check out how our Group Sales staff can assist you with your nextgroup visit to one of our theaters: BlumenthalArts.org/Groups.�

THEATER VISITS PRICELESS FOR THEGIRLS OF CIRCLE DE LUZ

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MAKE THE BEST EVEN BETTERBoard of Trustees Chair Outlines Her Vision For Blumenthal Performing Arts

As BlumenthalPerforming ArtsBoard of TrusteesChair, Dorlisa K. Flurwants to take analready solidinstitution andrespected brand andmake it even strongerand more renowned.

Flur, who hasserved on the Boardfor three years, is theExecutive VicePresident and ChiefMerchandising Officerfor Family DollarStores, Inc., based inMatthews. She led theGovernanceCommittee before

becoming Chair.“I want to increase Board and Committee engagement to assist

the very capable CEOTom Gabbard by enhancing key processes andtackling high-impact projects that enable performance and/or reducerisk,” Flur said.

To accomplish that, the Governance, Finance & Audit andDevelopment Committees will focus on building best practices forcore institutional processes. The other three committees will targetpriority project-based initiatives:

• Education: Help keep the arts alive for area children as thepublic schools deal with major budget cuts.

• Marketing: Clarify and strengthen the Blumenthal’s brandand leverage online presence and social media to increasecustomer engagement.

• Facilities: The group, which is in its first year, will look atways to enhance the Belk Theater while developing a longerrange vision for the portfolio of six theaters. “The newKnight Theater offers many opportunities since it is part ofLevine Center for the Arts,” Flur said.

Like all nonprofits, Blumenthal faces a challenging fund-raising environment, especially in the corporate arena. “We willneed to be more adaptive and innovative in creating exceptionalvalue propositions for our corporate partners and in engagingmembers to build and strengthen the fund-raising base,” Flur said.

The slow economy also has affected Broadway’s ability tospin off new shows as robustly as before the downturn. That, too,requires creative solutions to maintain the pipeline of diverseprogramming that Charlotte and the region currently enjoy, Flursaid.

Flur, her husband Peter and daughter Arella often attendshows and special events. Her favorite this season (so far) wasBILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL. “I was surprised by theemotional connection that it created with characters that youwouldn’t expect to identify with,” she said. Attending the openingcast party with 10-year-old Arella was memorable, too. “She gotautographs from all five Billys and was mesmerized by several ofthem playing a dance game on the Wii.”

What is she looking forward to next season? A Charlottefavorite, JERSEY BOYS. “I was surprised by how many songs Iknew… I didn’t realize I was a Four Seasons fan. It's a ‘happyshow’ that you can’t help but leave humming.” �

MAY 9-23BLUMENTHAL'S ONLINE FUNDRAISINGAUCTIONBlumenthal Performing Arts’ popular online auction returnsMonday, May 9 at BiddingForGood.com/BlumenthalCenter.You are sure to find a treasure as you bid on items rangingfrom autographed memorabilia including show posters fromBILLY ELLIOTTHEMUSICAL, JERSEY BOYS and 9TO5:THEMUSICAL.The auction ends Sunday, May 23. Allproceeds benefit Blumenthal.

JUNE 12TONY AWARDS® VIEWING PARTYJoin us to watch the live broadcast of the 65th Annual TonyAwards® on the Big Screen at McGlohonTheatre in SpiritSquare. Get great previews of the 2011-12 Duke EnergyBroadway Lights Series and a chance to win prizes from ticketsto show merchandise! Complimentary food and cash bar.�

COMING UP

Guests in their “Shrek ears” at the 2010 Tony Awards® Party at the McGlohon Theatre at Spirit Square.

Dorlisa and Peter Flur, with their her daughter Arella, met Dolly Parton(second from right) in October.

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THE FUNNY GUYSCHARLOTTE SQUAWKS' Brian Kahn and Mike Collins will make you laughBy Elizabeth Bertrand

Did you hear the one about the lawyer and the news radio show hostwho keep writing irreverent musical parodies together? It sounds like thebeginning of a well-worn joke but it’s not. This is a true story about thebrains behind the hilarious show CHARLOTE SQUAWKS, making itsseventh appearance in the Queen City this summer. Get ready to laughwhen an all new production of CHARLOTTE SQUAWKS debuts at theBooth Playhouse at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, June 10-25.

From sports and pop culture to news and politics, the writing team ofBrian Kahn and Mike Collins creates an original show that pokes fun ateverything and everyone it can.

The show is an “equal opportunity skewerer,” says Collins, long-timehost of WFAE’s Charlotte Talks. “No side is left unscathed. If you’re a politicalfigure and you’re not being made fun of, you’re not doing your job.”

The show’s secret to success lies in Kahn and Collins’ masterful abilityto rewrite the lyrics of popular songs and show tunes and give them auniquely Charlotte twist. The two constantly collect ideas of people, eventsor things that may be parody-worthy.

“I keep a file that starts the day after we close the previous show,” saysKahn, who is a business litigator by day. “But I really don’t start writinguntil maybe five months before we open.”

In the case of CHARLOTTE SQUAWKS, procrastination helps keepthe content fresh.

“We revise lyrics right up until the opening and sometimes during theshow,” says Collins. “Last year, we had a song about Julius Peppers, begginghim to re-sign (with the Carolina Panthers) and the day he was going tomake his decision was opening night.”

Two different sets of lyrics were written and rehearsed in case of eithereventuality. (In case you missed that saga: Peppers now plays for theChicago Bears.)

For Kahn and Collins, writing the songs is just part of the fun. Bothalso usually perform in the show and this year Collins will direct. Kahn, thefather of 3-year old triplets and a baby boy, will sit out this spring in orderto help his wife at home.

“SQUAWKS is a lot of work, especially if I’m in it,” says Kahn. “Andmy wife actually still likes to see me every once in a while.”

Creating an entertaining show on current events in this age oflightning-quick news cycles is not only demanding for the writers, itrequires a unique breed of actors, too.

Unlike a typical musical production, no set script and score existswhen rehearsals begin. Roles may change, lyrics often evolve, and entirenumbers may be cut to make room for the latest scandal or phenomenon.

This year’s fearless and talented cast of 10 will perform about 30 songs,including “Tea Party in the USA” (with Sarah Palin putting her own twist on aMiley Cyrus anthem); “The Fandom of the Oprah” (a PHANTOM parodyabout the Queen of daytimeTV); “No HUD in Ballantyne” (to the tune of“My Funny Valentine”); and “Do You Hear the People Cringe” (a LESMISERABLES-inspired song about the Panthers).

Keep up with the latest news and intrigue on SQUAWKS atFacebook.com (search for Charlotte Squawks).�

Mike Collins and a facebook stalker (Brian Kahn) from the 2010 production CHARLOTTE SQUAWKS: SIXDEGREES OF DESECRATION.

“Twitter” Squawks’ version of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller”

"Hey Jules!" (A parody of the Beatles' "Hey Jude" about Julius Peppers)

CHARLOTTE SQUAWKS:7 YEAR BIT©#

JUNE 10-25 • BOOTH PLAYHOUSEAT BLUMENTHAL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

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TICKETS: 704.335.1010 • BlumenthalArts.org/Broadway

The new Duke Energy Broadway Lights Series will setyour fingers snapping and your toes tapping and sootheyour soul with rock n' roll, Sinatra, a classic love story anda lot of laughs.

Shows on the schedule include 2010 Tony Award®

winner for Best Musical MEMPHIS; the powerful revivalof critical favorite WEST SIDE STORY; the red-hot rockn’ roll of MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET; the brand newmusical BRING IT ON: THE MUSICAL; Twyla Tharp’scaptivating Sinatra celebration COME FLY AWAY and theTony Award®-winning revival of LA CAGE AUX FOLLES,the Broadway classic's first visit to the Queen City.

Plus, JERSEY BOYS returns after shattering salesrecords during its three-week engagement in 2010!

Duke Energy returns this season as the sponsor of theBroadway Lights Series with eight touring shows that havebeen nominated for 38 Tony Awards® and that have won13 trophies.

“Charlotte theater fans who want to see the best ofcurrent or recent hits in New York won’t have to go furthernext year than Uptown Charlotte,” said BlumenthalPresident Tom Gabbard. “We are proud to be one of thetop 10 touring markets, which helps Charlotte audiences beamongst the first to see tours like THE ADDAMSFAMILY (Charlotte is the third stop). Additionally, we’reproud to be producing partners on LA CAGE AUXFOLLES, another Tony Award®-winning show that willvisit the Queen City in 2012.”

In addition to the Duke Energy Broadway LightsSeries, Blumenthal Performing Arts announced fourBroadway Extras: ROCK OF AGES, the arena-rock lovestory set to an ’80s soundtrack; the 2005 Tony Award®

winner for Best Musical MONTY PYTHON’SSPAMALOT; the explosive, high energy STOMP; and anew touring production of the worldwide smash, Disney’sBEAUTY AND THE BEAST.

Tickets for the Duke Energy Broadway Lights Seriesproductions are available now as part of a Broadway LightsSeries season subscription. The basic seven-showsubscription includes all productions except JERSEYBOYS. The eight-show subscription includes the mega-hit.Prices for a seven-show package start as low as $126.

To renew or become a subscriber, call 704.335.1010.You may also stop by the Belk Theater Box Office duringbusiness hours or at a show. Online ordering will beavailable at a later date.

Don’t miss your chance to:• Witness a tale of forbidden love in MEMPHIS• Visit Morticia, Gomez and the rest of THE ADDAMSFAMILY

• Walk like a man with JERSEY BOYS• Rediscover Sinatra with COME FLY AWAY• Celebrate America in WEST SIDE STORY,• Cheer for friendship in BRING IT ON: THE MUSICAL• Explore the meaning of family with LA CAGE AUXFOLLES

• Be a fly on the wall of fame as Elvis, Johnny Cash, CarlPerkins and Jerry Lee Lewis jam in MILLION DOLLARQUARTET!

For more information: BlumenthalArts.org/Broadwayor 704.335.1010.

THE SHOWS!

Oct. 11-16, 2011 • Ovens AuditoriumThe weird and wonderful family comes to devilishlydelightful life in THE ADDAMS FAMILY. Thismagnificently macabre new musical comedy, based on thebizarre and beloved family of characters by legendarycartoonist Charles Addams is created by Jersey Boys authorsMarshall Brickman & Rick Elice, Drama Desk-winningcomposer/lyricist Andrew Lippa (The Wild Party),choreographer Sergio Trujillo (Jersey Boys) and Olivier

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Award-winning director/designers Phelim McDermott & JulianCrouch with creative consultation by four-time Tony Award®

winner Jerry Zaks.

It’s every parent’s nightmare. Your little girl has suddenly become ayoung woman, and what’s worse, has fallen deliriously in lovewith a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family. Yes,Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has a“normal” boyfriend, and for parents Gomez and Morticia, thisshocking development will turn the Addams house downside up.

Come meet the family. We’ll leave the lights off for you.

TheAddamsFamilyMusical.com

Nov. 1-6, 2011Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts CenterMore than fifty years ago one musical changed theater forever.Now it’s back, and mesmerizing audiences once again. From thefirst note to the final breath, WEST SIDE STORY is the greatestlove story of all time. Directed by David Saint, using TonyAward®-winning librettist Arthur Laurents’ Broadway direction,WEST SIDE STORY remains as powerful, poignant and timelyas ever. The new Broadway cast album of West Side Story recentlywon the 2010 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Show Album.The Bernstein and Sondheim score is considered to be one ofBroadway’s finest and features such classics of the Americanmusical theatre as “Something’s Coming,” “Tonight,” “America,”“I Feel Pretty” and “Somewhere.”

“So exciting IT MAKES YOU ACHE WITH PLEASURE”–John Lahr, The New Yorker

WestSideStory.com

Nov. 22-Dec. 11, 2011Knight Theater at Levine Center for the ArtsMILLION DOLLAR QUARTET is the smash hit Broadwaymusical, inspired by the true story of the famed recording sessionthat brought together rock ‘n’ roll icons Elvis Presley, JohnnyCash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins for the first and only time.

On December 4, 1956, these four young musicians were gatheredtogether by Sam Phillips, the “Father of Rock ’n’ Roll” at SunRecords in Memphis for what would be one of the greatest jamsessions of all time. MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET brings thatlegendary night to life with an irresistible tale of broken promises,secrets, betrayal and celebrations featuring timeless hits including“Blue Suede Shoes,” “Fever,” “That’s All Right,” “Sixteen Tons,”“Great Balls of Fire,” “I Walk the Line,” “Whole Lotta Shakin’Goin’ On,” “Who Do You Love?,” “Matchbox,” “Folsom PrisonBlues,” “Hound Dog” and more.

This thrilling musical brings you inside the recording studio withfour major talents who came together as a red-hot rock ‘n’ rollband for one unforgettable night. Don’t miss your chance to be afly on the wall of fame... at MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET!

MillionDollarQuartetLive.com

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Jan. 3-8, 2012 • Ovens AuditoriumTURN UP THAT DIAL... From the underground danceclubs of 1950s Memphis, Tennessee, comes a hot newBroadway musical that bursts off the stage with explosivedancing, irresistible songs and a thrilling tale of fame andforbidden love. Inspired by actual events, MEMPHIS isabout a white radio DJ who wants to change the world anda black club singer who is ready for her big break. Comealong on their incredible journey to the ends of theairwaves.

Filled with laughter, soaring emotion and roof-raising rock‘n’ roll. Winner of four 2010 Tony Awards® including BestMusical, MEMPHIS, which played pre-Broadway at the LaJolla Playhouse, features a Tony®-winning book by JoeDiPietro (I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change) and aTony®-winning original score with music by Bon Jovifounding member David Bryan. Directing is Tony®

nominee Christopher Ashley (Xanadu), and choreography isby Sergio Trujillo (Jersey Boys).

Get ready to experience Broadway’s most exciting newdestination – what AP calls “The very essence of what aBroadway musical should be.”

MemphisTheMusical.com

Feb. 22-March 11, 2012Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts CenterMore than 47,000 theatergoers cheered when JERSEY BOYSmade its sell-out premiere in Charlotte April 2010.Worldwide, more than 12 million people have seen JERSEYBOYS. And now, the show that made critics and audiencescheer is “Working Its Way Back” to the Belk Theater!

JERSEY BOYS, is the Tony®, Grammy® and Olivier Award-winning Best Musical about Rock and Roll Hall of FamersThe Four Seasons: Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, TommyDeVito and Nick Massi. This is the story of how four blue-collar kids became one of the greatest successes in pop musichistory. They wrote their own songs, invented their ownsounds and sold 175 million records worldwide – all beforethey were 30! JERSEY BOYS features their hit songs“Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” “Oh What aNight” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.” “IT WILL RUNFOR CENTURIES!” proclaims Time Magazine.

The JERSEY BOYS creative team comprises two-time TonyAward®-winning director Des McAnuff, book writersMarshall Brickman and Rick Elice, composer Bob Gaudio,lyricist Bob Crewe and choreography by Sergio Trujillo.

Adult language.JerseyBoysInfo.com


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April 10-15, 2012Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts CenterBRING IT ON: THE MUSICAL will explode on theBelk Theater stage April 10-15, 2012, as one of the mostremarkable scores in years unites with breathtaking danceand the thrilling, cutthroat world of competitivecheerleading.

The team behind this explosive new show is anextraordinarily rare union of Broadway’s most acclaimed,award-winning young creators. With an original librettoby Tony Award® winner Jeff Whitty (Avenue Q), musicand lyrics by Tony Award®-winning composer Lin-Manuel Miranda (In The Heights), music by Pulitzer andTony Award®-winning composer Tom Kitt (Next toNormal), lyrics by Broadway lyricist Amanda Green(High Fidelity) and music supervision by Tony Award®

winner Alex Lacamoire (Wicked), BRING IT ON: THEMUSICAL is directed and choreographed by TonyAward® winner Andy Blankenbuehler (In The Heights).

Is the need to win worth the cost of your closest friends?AOL.com calls this original musical comedy “nothinglike you expect and everything you will love!” Game on.

Suggested for 13 and older.BringItOnTheMusical.com

THE BENEFITS OFSUBSCRIBING!

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GUARANTEED SEATS for Broadway’s Biggest HitsWith limited engagements in Charlotte, the sold-out sign is bound to goup quickly for many of these hits, but as a subscriber, your seats areguaranteed.

The BEST SEATS at the BEST PRICESubscribers are seated before anyone else and save on tickets for manytitles with discounts up to 20%. You can enjoy seven great shows for aslittle as $126.

Create Your Perfect Season with SWAP a Show!Wish you could trade one show on the season for something else? Maybeone of the Broadway EXTRAS or additional seats at JERSEY BOYS? Withthe SWAP Benefit, trade tickets for one show for tickets to anything elseon the Blumenthal’s schedule. Swap any time after receiving your ticketsuntil one week prior to the event date. If the event you are swapping intois more expensive, you must pay the difference; if it’s less, we will refundthe difference.

Buy Before the PublicPurchase additional single tickets to any of the season shows or BroadwayEXTRAS now or at any time before sales open to the public. This sameSubscriber Priority also applies to all Blumenthal-sponsored specialattractions!

Exchange for FREESwitch your normal subscription performance to another day or time forFREE.

Easy Pay PlanPay your subscription over three monthly installments. Your credit cardwill be charged monthly beginning with the month you order.

Lock Down Parking NOW!Buy parking for the whole season with your subscription. This amount canbe included in your extended payments.

BEST VALUE: Become a MemberSeason subscribers who are also Blumenthal members receive first priorityin improving their current seat locations. Membership levels begin as lowas $50. And your tax deductible contribution will support providingspecial arts education programs for children across the region as well asbringing the best shows to the Queen City.�


12

May 1-6, 2012Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts CenterCome Fly Away is the new Broadway musical that bringstogether the legendary music of FRANK SINATRA andthe creative vision of Tony Award®-winner TWYLATHARP (Movin’ Out).

This one-of-a-kind experience combines the seductivevocals of “Ol’ Blue Eyes” with the sizzling sound of a liveon-stage big band and the visceral thrill of Tharp’schoreography. As 15 of the world’s best dancers tell thestory of four couples falling in and out of love, you willexperience the exhilaration of a first kiss, the excitement ofa first dance, and the bittersweet moments of a first good-bye in a world of sparkling romance and astonishingbeauty.

Come Fly Away features a score of beloved Sinatra classicsincluding “Fly Me to the Moon,” “My Way,” “New York,New York” and “Makin’ Whoopee.”

“SPECTACULAR and DAZZLING! TWYLA THARP’sELECTRIFYING celebration of the music of FRANKSINATRA will sweep you up in a complete spell.”– Charles Isherwood, The New York Times.

ComeFlyAway.com

May 29-June 3, 2012Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts CenterWELCOME TO LA CAGE AUX FOLLES!

Winner of three 2010 Tony Awards® including the awardfor BEST MUSICAL REVIVAL, this hilarious newproduction of LA CAGE AUX FOLLES charmed manyBroadway audiences with its tale of family and love.

LA CAGE tells the story of Georges, the owner of a glitzynightclub in lovely Saint-Tropez, and his partner Albin,who moonlights as the glamorous chanteuse Zaza. WhenGeorges’ son brings his fiancée’s conservative parents hometo meet the flashy pair, the bonds of family are put to thetest as the feather boas fly! LA CAGE is a tuneful andtouching tale of one family’s struggle to stay together... stayfabulous... and above all else, stay true to themselves!

With a glorious score of hummable melodies and a dynamitecast featuring the “notorious and dangerous Cagelles,” LACAGE is an indisputable musical comedy classic... and thisextraordinary new version shows you why!

Suggested for 13 and older.LaCage.com20

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13BROADWAY EXTRAS

ROCK OF AGES – Dec. 26-31, 2012Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts CenterIn 1987 on the Sunset Strip, a small town girl met a big cityrocker in LA’s most famous rock club and they fell in love to thegreatest songs of the 80s. It’s ROCK OF AGES, an arena-rock lovestory told through the mind-blowing, face-melting hits of Journey,Night Ranger, Styx, Reo Speedwagon, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister,Poison, Asia, Whitesnake and many more. Don’t miss thisawesomely good time about dreaming big, playing loud andpartying on! RockOfAgesMusical.comAdult language and content.

SPAMALOT – Feb. 17-19, 2012Knight Theater at Levine Center for the ArtsBack by popular demand! Lovingly ripped off from the classic filmcomedy Monty Python and the Holy Grail, SPAMALOT featuresa book by Eric Idle and a score by Eric Idle and John Du Prez.

Telling the legendary tale of King Arthur and his knights of theRound Table, and featuring a bevy of beautiful show girls, not tomention cows, killer rabbits and French people, Monty Python’sSPAMALOT “raises silliness to an art form” (The Sunday Times)and has been hailed as “a no-holds-barred smash hit.” (The NewYorker). MontyPythonsSpamalot.com

STOMP – Apr. 3-8, 2012Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts CenterA Charlotte favorite returns in all its explosive glory. Theinternational percussion sensation has garnered an armful ofawards and rave reviews, and has appeared on numerous nationaltelevision shows. The eight-member troupe useseverything but conventional percussion instruments –matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans,Zippo lighters, hubcaps – to fill the stage withmagnificent rhythms. As USA Today says, “STOMPfinds beautiful noises in the strangest places.” See whatall the noise is about. StompOnline.com

Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST – June 26-July 1, 2012Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts CenterDisney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST features the animatedfilm’s Academy Award®-winning score with music by Alan Menkenand lyrics by the late Howard Ashman, with additional songs withmusic by Alan Menken and lyrics by Tim Rice. The originalcreators of the Broadway production are together again for thistouring production including director Rob Roth.

“As a director, it is rare to have the opportunity to revisit yourwork 15 years later,” says Roth. “The theme of ‘Beauty’ is aboutseeing past the exterior into the heart of someone, and this isreflected in the design for the show, which is about transparencyand layers, seeing past one thing and into another.”BeautyAndTheBeastOnTour.com

�

STOMP. Photo by Junichi Takahashi.

SUBSCRIBERSRAVE ABOUTBENEFITS

From access to the very best seats to discounts on manyshows, it pays to be a subscriber to the Duke Energy BroadwayLights Series.

Michael Silverman, a current subscriber, says, “Havingmoved from a large city with close proximity to NYC andBroadway, I wanted to find an avenue in Charlotte for mytheater passion. After seeing a few productions fromBlumenthal Performing Arts, I found that Charlotte attractshigh caliber performers and touring companies. I have seensome of the same shows on Broadway and find theproductions here are of equal talent. During the past six years Ihave thoroughly enjoyed my subscription and plan to continuefor years to come!”

Gary Knight, a season subscriber for two years, says,“The reason I became a season subscriber was first for thelineup of shows. Many of the shows I was not able to see onBroadway so this was a great way to see them and theconvenience of selecting the time that fit for me. I enjoy theacting and musical talent of the performers.”

Plus, Knight adds, “Another reason is to always makesure I had a seat for the popular shows that sell out quickly.”

Mary Coon, a subscriber since2001, says the season tickets offer abreak from the routine. “(It’s) anexcuse to have a nice dinner out and achance to spend an evening enjoyinggood company and great theater,” saidCoon, who originally subscribed because a

friend, who is a long-time Broadway fan,suggested that they might enjoy seeing

Broadway-quality shows together. “Overthe years, we’ve enjoyed theperformances, especially the musicals,”she said.

Whether you want the best seatstheaters have to offer or the

best prices, it pays tobe a seasonsubscriber! Formore information

on subscriptions:BlumenthalArts.org/Broadway. �

14


Alice Ripley is enjoying herself.Really.“I wouldn’t be doing it if it wasn’t fun,” insists Ripley, who’s

spent nearly half a decade now inside one of the American musicaltheatre’s most troubled minds. Diana Goodman, the suburban wifeand mother at the center of the Pulitzer Prize-winning NEXT TONORMAL, is a woman shattered by loss, untethered from reality,and drowning in a psychopharmacological whirlpool. Emotionallywrenching, physically punishing, it’s the kind of role any sane actorwould escape from as soon as possible after her Tony Award®

acceptance speech. (Watch Ripley’son YouTube: it was one of 2009’smost memorable.)

But like the brilliant, bipolarDiana, Ripley seems to thrive at theextremes—on stage if notnecessarily in life. When Diana,temporarily “stable” thanks tomedication, sings, “I miss themountains/I miss the highs andlows,” you can almost hear a futureRipley looking back on her odysseywith this show. The actor hasdelayed her deliverance in a wayBroadway stars seldom do anymore,by headlining NEXT TONORMAL’s national tour; thatproduction comes to the KnightTheater in July, and Ripley says shewould like to star in the Londonpremiere later this year.

Talking by phone from a WestCoast tour stop, Ripley reflected onher readiness for this extraordinary test of talent and endurance,after such earlier Broadway challenges as Side Show and LesMisérables. She also revealed her own methods of therapy. “I spend alot of time alone with my guitar,” she said, as fans can hear on hernew CD, Daily Practice. Here’s more from Ripley’s conversationwith Julie York Coppens, former theatre writer for the CharlotteObserver, now with Dramatics magazine.

Q. You’ve been living in Diana’s head for a long time now. Can youtalk about how this role has evolved for you?I bring her to life, so she has to live in me somewhere. And becausewe’re both living human beings, we’ve both changed. I’m older;things have happened in my life. We both keep growing andlearning. I keep learning about the audience and learning about thepiece and learning about Diana. Plus, the piece has changed a lot—logistical changes, the things that happen when you move from onevenue to another, and the changes that happen with any show overtime. I see all of the changes as positive.

Q. What memories do you have of getting to know Diana, backwhen NEXT TO NORMAL was still in development?I knew right away that this is a character that was right for me andthat I was ready for — and it’s so rare to have either of those things.And you know, on some level I was just really happy to have a job.

Q. It is a good gig. What’s been the most joyful thing about it?I’m really glad you brought that up! Because you know, I have beenfocusing on all the challenges… but I also want to talk about howmuch fun it is to play this role. Now, being on the road — it adds

to my work time and it adds to thevocal demands, but I’m sustainingmy life as an actor in a role thatmeans a lot to me, and that’s how Iwanted to spend my life… I justenjoy when I can pull off a night ofdoing Diana and come outunscathed as Alice.

Q. You must have some kind ofroutine to protect yourself.Absolutely. I have some days whereif that routine is disturbed, I freakout. I get annoyed if my schedulechanges. I become very stingy withmy time. Even on my day off, Istand guard. After I play Diana, Ihave to jump in the shower,whether I need it or not. I juststand in the shower under the hotwater. And I spend the morningrecovering from her. I put my facein ice water like Joan Crawford.

Q. When you’re working a role like this, do you find yourselfbuilding predictability and harmony into the rest of your life? Andhow can you when you’re traveling all the time?Predictability is what I strive for. Harmony is what I find. I find itanywhere. Harmony, you choose.

Q. Has this role been especially hard on your voice?No, the opposite! The whole score is a lot easier for me to sing thanit ever was. It was almost impossible to sing at the beginning. Now Ican wake up the next morning and talk to you on the phone… “IMiss the Mountains” used to feel traumatic to me. Now it’s muchmore laid-back and balanced. It’s in a place where Diana can just sitand be with the audience.

POLE TO POLEEpic emotional journey a joyful ordeal for ‘Normal’ star Alice RipleyBy Julie York Coppens

I miss the mountainsI miss the highs and lows

All the climbing, all the fallingAll the while the wild wind blows

Stinging you with snowAnd soaking you with rain—

I miss the mountains,I miss the pain.

Excerpt from “I Miss the Mountains,” from Next to Normal, music byTom Kitt, book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey.

Emma Hunton & Alice Ripley in the National Tour of Next to Normal.Photo by Craig Schwartz.

Jeremy Kushnier, Alice Ripley & Asa Somers in the National Tour of Next to Normal. Photo by Craig Schwartz.

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Q. Isn’t that something you have to learn as an actor and avocalist—that you can’t always be turning up the Spinal Tapamplifier to 11?Right, because you don’t do that in everyday life. The key is to findwhere you sync with a character, and just trust yourself to be in thatplace. I think you’re right: the less you do, the better. I’m not sayingthis like I’m an expert. I’m definitely a beginner. I really am. I likethat about acting—you can always get it a little closer to the center,because it’s life.

Q. What advice do you have for young actors?Find as many outlets for your expression as you can. Playinstruments, learn foreign languages…Actors are smarter when theyfill their lives with real things to invest their energies in—not justroles.

I see myself as somebody who’s a creative being, and one of mycreative outlets is Diana in NEXT TO NORMAL. It’s the mostpowerful outlet I can imagine. I’m grateful that I was ready to play

her—I was, I don’t know, maybe immature enough or dumbenough to say yes! But it is soul work that I’m doing. I can feel it onstage. I’ve gotten to the point where I can do it. It’s a game I canplay. Like a magician’s act, it has to work every time: I’m bipolarand I’m throwing silverware across the stage and I’m sobbing, and ithas to work every time.

So are you ready to do something easy now?I’m ready to follow Diana for a little while longer. After a break. �

Curt Hansen (top), Asa Somers & Alice Ripley in theNational Tour of Next to Normal. Photo by Craig Schwartz.

Alice Ripley & Curt Hansen in the NationalTour of Next to Normal.

NEXT TO NORMALJULY 12-17 • KNIGHT THEATER

AT LEVINE CENTER FOR THE ARTSExplicit language and adult themes.

16


One of the most beloved musicals of all time and the secondlongest running show in Broadway history (nearly 7,500performances in 18 years), Andrew Lloyd Weber’s timeless CATScelebrates its 30th birthday this year and returns to CharlotteMay 24-29 in Belk Theater.

So what is it that has enabled the hitshow to become an instant classic? It couldbe the fantastic makeup and costumes,the can’t-get-it-out-of-your-headmusic, or even the characters,which are straight out of abook of poetry by T.S. Eliot.

“I think cat people love thisshow,” said Corey Mitchell, adrama teacher at Northwest Schoolof the Arts and an actor whoportrayed the sage cat OldDeuteronomy in a local production ofCATS. “We are a society of people whoreally revere our own animals. (In CATS) wesee our pets come to life on stage.”

But the adoration of this musical goesbeyond just our love for our pets, Mitchell said.“The other thing is that Andrew Lloyd Weberhas this way of writing music that kind ofgets stuck in your head. CATS takes peopleto another world, which is what I thinktheatre is all about. You just kind of ridethe wave of it.”

And, he adds, CATS is a classic inpart because it appeals to theatre-loversof all ages. “Especially for children, this is ashow that is so accessible that I thinkeveryone should see it. If there is a kid inyour life that’s between six and 11 yearsold, it’s one of those shows that they can

go and watch… and really be transformed into a theatre lover.”CATS’ appeal to children is something Charlotte resident

Carolyn Steeves knows about firsthand: the Broadway show played alarge role in her childhood. “I was always a big animal lover, so Iguess the idea of a musical solely about animals really appealed tome when I was six years old,” she said.

Carolyn’s love of CATS runs deep. As a child, she recordeda performance of CATS that aired on her local public televisionstation – and proceeded to watch it about once a week. Then,she and her brother took their love for the musical a few steps

further. They were studyinggymnastics, and taughtthemselves some of thechoreography—specifically, theacrobatic performance of

mischievous cats Mungojerrie andRumpleteazer.“Whenever there were talent shows,

we would perform (CATS),” Steeves said. Alltold, she estimated that she performed pieces

from CATS about eight or nine times. “To this dayI still remember one cat, Victoria. I remember hersolo. Sometimes I’ll bust it out.”“I think (CATS) is beloved for part of the reason

that I loved it. With the poetry, (T.S. Eliot) was looking athis cats and imagining that they had these secret lives,”Steeves said. “I think with animals we all tend to come upwith these back stories to explain why our dogs do certainthings or what our cats do when we’re not at home.” �

BELOVED AS EVER, CATS MAKESTHE MOST OF ITS NINE LIVESBy Aleigh Acerni

CATSMAY 24-29 • BELK THEATER

AT BLUMENTHAL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

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Adopt a "Grizabella"and see CATS for free!

Check outBlumenthalArts.org/Grizabella

for details!

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VOLUNTEERS PLAY A STARRINGROLE IN EVERY PERFORMANCE

Even if you have two left feet or can’t carry a tune, you canstill play a starring role in Blumenthal Performing Arts’ vibrantarts scene. All it takes is the desire to offer your time and talents asa volunteer. There’s no better way to share your passion formusical theatre, plays, opera, dance, classical music, comedy andany other performance art.

What can you do as a volunteer?Volunteers encourage students and adults by giving tours toschool groups, senior citizens, tourists and families considering amove to Charlotte. Volunteer ushers welcome visitors to eachtheater and help them find their seats. Volunteers also assist withadministrative work, offering their skills in a variety of differentdepartments.

“It’s a wonderful way to make friends,” said Jane Miles. Alongtime supporter of the Blumenthal, she has played many rolesas a volunteer – from usher to administrative assistant. Last year,she received the CenterStage Award in recognition of hervolunteer contributions. “I think if you do love the arts, you enjoybeing a part of (the Blumenthal).”

Blumenthal Performing Arts accepts new volunteers every month,but also has volunteers who have served for 18 years.

There’s even a way for young volunteers to participate. The JuniorAmbassadors program for high school juniors and seniors offersvolunteers from 16- to 18-years-old a chance to participate in aseries of personal growth and development workshops. They alsohave the opportunity to begin to understand giving back to thecommunity by serving as volunteer ushers.

Volunteers enjoy a variety of opportunities from serving thiswonderful community, to seeing great shows to engaging in the

fellowship and camaraderie with hundreds of other volunteerswho share a commitment to the performing arts and who have thetime and commitment to serve.

Important cast membersEvery day, and at every performance, volunteers are vital toBlumenthal Performing Arts. Their dedication and generosity hasa big impact on the organization’s ability to offer a wider varietyof services and bring top-notch shows to Charlotte.

Last year alone, volunteers gave a whopping 55,772 hours of timeto the organization. If they had been paid at minimum wage –$7.25 per hour – their time would have added an extra $404,437in wages to the Blumenthal’s budget.

“We have a fabulous team of volunteers that provide a valuableservice, and we value what they do tremendously,” said JoyceFord, Executive Vice President/General Manager. “They’re reallyamazing.”

How can you get involved?Visit BlumenthalArts.org and click on “Volunteer” under the“Support Us” menu to find an explanation of each volunteeropportunity, as well as an online application. The show can’t goon without you.

“This is a community service (volunteers) are providing,” saidReneé Justice, Front of House/Customer Service TrainingCoordinator. She and her husband Henry, Volunteer/Front ofHouse Manager, spent years as volunteer ushers before joining theBlumenthal as part-time employees upon their retirement.

Volunteers are really ambassadors for the arts in Charlotte. �

Volunteer welcoming our patrons and assisting them to the correct seating level. Junior Ambassador scanning a couples tickets in the orchestra.

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MAY4-13 FAITH HEALER

STARVING ARTIST PRODUCTIONSDUKE ENERGYTHEATRE

6-7 LOOKING FOR LOVE INALLTHEWRONG PLACESBODY LANGUAGE PRODUCTIONSBOOTH PLAYHOUSE

6-7 GRIEGCHARLOTTE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRABELK THEATER

12-15 H.M.S. PINAFOREOPERA CAROLINABELK THEATER

14 FASCINATING RHYTHMS:AN EVENING OF SONG & DANCEJBP ENTERTAINMENTMcGLOHONTHEATRE

19 NEKO CASEKNIGHTTHEATER

19-20 POPS: BUGS BUNNYATTHESYMPHONYCHARLOTTE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRABELK THEATER

21 7THANNUAL BACHELORAUCTIONDELTAS OF CHARLOTTEMcGLOHONTHEATRE

19 - JUNE 11 CHESSQUEEN CITY THEATRE COMPANYDUKE ENERGYTHEATRE

20 SLAMCHARLOTTE POETRY SLAMMcGLOHONTHEATRE

21 POPS: CHRIS BOTTICHARLOTTE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRABELK THEATER

22 SPEAK UPYOUTH POETRY SLAMDUKE ENERGYTHEATRE

24-29 CATSBELK THEATER

JUNE2 WILL DOWNING

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4 25THANNIVERSARYNIGHT OF NOTESCHARLOTTE CHILDREN’S CHOIRBELK THEATER

10-25 CHARLOTTE SQUAWKS: 7-YEAR BIT©#BOOTH PLAYHOUSE

14-19 SHREKTHE MUSICALBELK THEATER

15-26 FABULATIONON Q PRODUCTIONSDUKE ENERGYTHEATRE

17 SLAMCHARLOTTE POETRY SLAMMcGLOHONTHEATRE

18 BEATLESTRIBUTE NIGHTTOSCO MUSIC PARTYKNIGHTTHEATER

19 AN EVENINGWITHDELFEAYO MARSALISJAZZ ARTS INITIATIVEMcGLOHONTHEATRE


25 JENNIFER HOLLIDAYCHARLOTTE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRABELK THEATER

JULY12-17 NEXTTO NORMAL

KNIGHTTHEATER14-16 DIE ROTEN PUNKTE

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MAMMA MIA!JULY 26-31 • BELK THEATER AT BLUMENTHAL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

NEXT TO NORMALJULY 12-17 • KNIGHT THEATER AT LEVINE CENTER FOR THE ARTS

SHREK THE MUSICALJUNE 14-19 • BELK THEATER AT BLUMENTHAL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

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DIE ROTEN PUNKTEJULY 14-16 • DUKE ENERGY THEATRE AT SPIRIT SQUARE

With budget cuts plaguing school systems, BlumenthalPerforming Arts’ Education Department stepped up its mission tohelp students continue to have cultural opportunities that aid in theirartistic enrichment.

Two annual programs, The Broadway Experience and TheBlumenthal Experience, offer students and teachers a much-neededdose of optimism. The Doctor Family Foundation generously fundsthe Broadway Experience and the Blumenthal Experience.

The Broadway Experience: March 25-27The Broadway Experience provided 12 area high school students

with a strong passion for the arts with an all-expense paid trip toBroadway, where many of the students dream of working one day.The students not only saw two shows, they toured behind the scenesof theaters and met with show casts and creative teams.

“The intent is toaffirm the students in theirartistic potential, engagethem in numerous aspectsof Broadway productionand inform them ofopportunities available inand through the performingarts,” said Michelle Youngs,Blumenthal's EducationPrograms Manager.

“The BroadwayExperience validated all ofmy hard work. It inspiredme to do more and Ihonestly wouldn’t trade itfor anything in the world.Every actor wants to be onBroadway and I got to seemy dream in action. So thiswas just the fuel I needed toknow that I can doanything if I put my mindto the test,” said Micah Lockhart from Vance High School.

Blumenthal Performing Arts piloted this program in 2010 byinterviewing 24 students from six high schools who were nominatedby theatre and/or music teachers. A demonstrated passion for the artsand financial need were key in the selection process. The 2011adventure expanded the selection process to 45 nominated studentsfrom 15 high schools in Mecklenburg, Union and Gaston counties.

On Friday, March 25, students departed Charlotte courtesy ofUS Airways. That day, they met with producer Kristin Caskey,producer of such hits as LEGALLY BLONDE and THOROUGHLYMODERN MILLIE, as well as casting director Megan Larche. Afterdinner at Sardi’s, the birthplace of the Tony Award®, the students sawthe new musical Wonderland, a modern spin on the classic story ofAlice and her Looking-Glass World. Afterward they had a Q&A withtwo actors from the show.

On Saturday, March 26, the group explored Central Park,

toured Radio City Music Hall and enjoyed dinner at The View, therestaurant atop the Marriot Marquis Hotel in Times Square. Becausethe entire restaurant rotates 360 degrees in an hour, students weretreated to a panoramic view of NYC during dinner. The dayculminated with a performance of War Horse at Lincoln Center. Thiswas a special preview performance of the show, which was created bythe National Theater of Great Britain, and is soon to open in NewYork.

Sunday, March 27, included a sightseeing tour of New York’smajor attractions prior to their flight home that evening.

The students chosen for the Broadway Experience included AliWalters, Karen Martinez, Mandy Wagoner and Rodriquez Bradleyfrom Gaston County; Arielle Taylor, Brandon Rogers, Drew Goinsand Jay Poppino from Union County; Jessica Clark, Morgan Wilson,Jordan Medley and Micah Lockhart from Mecklenburg County.

These students are eligibleto apply for the Mary DoctorPerforming Arts Scholarshipaward. Funded by the DoctorFamily Foundation, renewableawards (currently in the amountof $10,000 each) are presentedannually to two BroadwayExperience participants.Scholarship recipients for 2011will be selected in June.

The Blumenthal Experience:Feb. 16

Students nominated forThe Broadway Experience whowere not selected for the NewYork adventure were invited to aday of discovery at BlumenthalPerforming Arts. This year, 29students and 10 teachersparticipated.

Activities included a tourof all six Blumenthal theaters and Q&A sessions with Tom Gabbard,President of Blumenthal Performing Arts, Douglas Young, VicePresident of Programming and other staff members.

“The Blumenthal Experience helped me to figure out what Iwanted to do in my future. I learned more about theatre from thisexperience than I would from anything else,” said Alyssa Maples, whoattends Porter Ridge High.

Students were treated to a performance-based workshop withcast members from the touring Broadway show IN THE HEIGHTSbefore seeing the 2008 Tony Award® winner for Best Musical. Theday concluded with a post-show Q&A with cast members.

“The students were fantastic – highly engaged, courteous andappreciative,” said Ralph Beck, Blumenthal's Director of Education.“The excitement and synergy created among the students and 14 castmembers from IN THE HEIGHTS during the talk-back at the endof the day is indescribable. It was the perfect culmination to anextraordinary experience.” �

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTSEXPERIENCE BROADWAY,BLUMENTHAL

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The Blumenthal Experience was enjoyed by 29 students this year.

MEMBERSHIPnewsHOW TO BECOME A MEMBERBecome a Member today and start taking advantage of great benefits!

• Visit us online at BlumenthalArts.org/Support, click “Individual Membership,” then “Become a Member”• Call the Box Office at 704.372.1000• Visit the Box Office in Belk Theater lobby at 130 N. Tryon St.

21


CHAIRMAN’S COUNCILMr. and Mrs. William B. McGuire, Jr.

DIRECTOR’S COUNCILScot and Diane Powell

PRESIDENT’S COUNCILPeg and Jay AdamczykJim and Cathy BailyMrs. Nancy B. Thomas andMr. William M. Barnhardt

Arthur D. Becker, Christine K.Becker, Kimberly K. Becker

Amy and Philip BlumenthalBetsy and Alfred BrandMr. and Mrs. C. C. CameronMr. William K. Diehl, Jr.Walter and Michele FisherDorlisa and Peter FlurTom and Vickie GabbardDavid and Barbara GoodmanBeverly and Jim HanceChuck and Diane HarringtonMr. and Mrs. David L. HauserSally Hawk and Tommi LeviJeanne and Rick PuckettMr. and Mrs. Eric SklutEdgar and Karen Whitener

BENEFACTORHoward and Margaret BissellJ. Michael Booe andRebecca S. Henderson

Laura and Sam BowlesLea and Robin BurtAmy and Alfred DawsonDaniel and Marilyn DiMicco

Charlie ElbersonScott FullerGrace, Michael andJohn Galloway

Harry and Gail GrimBelinda and Timothy GunterMandy and Todd HouserThomas and Nora HughesSunny and Wen HutchinsonDavid and Susan JamisonLloyd JohnsonHoward and Julie LevineKarmen and Russell MartinChris and Caroline McDowellMichael, Jaime andAllie Monday

Tom and Anna NelsonWendy and Frank RosenBill and Brenda RyanJane and Nelson SchwabThad and Bobbie SharrettMr. and Mrs. Donald J. SherrillLisa and Glenn SherrillRonnie and Paulette SherrillJacqueline SnipesPam and Andy WarlickMr. and Mrs. E.I. Weisiger, Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Michael L. White

GRAND PATRONDr. Monique AbnerLarry AdamsBill and Valerie AlexanderElizabeth AustinMr. and Mrs. John M. BarryDr. and Mrs. Edward S. BaumMike and Renee Baumbach

Ralph and Linda BeckMark and Louise BernsteinRoy and Amy BivensMr. and Mrs. Alan BlumenthalCrandall and Erskine BowlesPeter and Cynthia BuckJames R. BullockBret BurquestTony and Dianne ByersJeffrey CarlsonNan and Hal ClarkeSteve and Elaine CoatsBrandon and Amy CroomRoger CuddyBill and Rose CummingsAdelaide and Ned DavisJames W. DonahuePepper and Roddey DowdMr. and Mrs. James F. DownsMarcia and Bob DynkoGreg EwaldLane E. FaisonJ.C. and Elizabeth FaulknerBeth and Jonathan FeitCurt and Sara FochtmannJoyce Staley FordJohn R. GeorgiusIn Memory of Judy GerhartAnne and George GoodyearMrs. Charles GraceRebecca and Carl GuidiceSharon and Benjamin HagerPamela G. Hanna, M.D.Ned and Ellen HardisonBlaine and Robin HawkinsMr. and Mrs. Mark HawleyEleanor and Parks Helms

Tim and Carolyn HiltonDr. and Mrs. Alex HorchakJim and Peggy HynesLynn JeffreyTom and Michelle JohnsonMr. and Mrs. Graeme M. KeithGinger KempVirginia A. KernMary Jean and Howard L. KushnerJanice S. LadleyJames LedbetterThe Leon Levine Foundation-Sandra and Leon Levine

Mr. and Mrs. Kurt E. Lindquist, IIDavid MarkoskiLori MathewsAshley and Scott MatteiGary and Jill MaxwellJane and Hugh McCollT. Bragg and Betsy McLeodMr. Edwin McMahanElsa and Joseph McNamaraJohn and Donna MitchellMarie MitchellDaniel NanceEd and Jill NewmanJanet and Peter NixonMadison O’KaneDonald O’Shields and Todd ThomasMr. and Mrs. John R. Prince IIIJim PutnamEva and George RaftelisNancy and David RankinSally and Russell RobinsonRobert and Lisa RollinsWilliam R. RollinsCarla and Ed Rose

In Memory of Larisa SamoylovMr. and Mrs. Jason C. SchmidlyDale and Mary SedivecDr. and Mrs. Robert SeymourMr. and Mrs. Charles M. Shelton, Sr.Peggy and Pope ShufordJim ShupeThe Marc and MattyeSilverman Foundation

Tom and Sherry SkainsMr. and Mrs. Wayne B. Smith, Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Marsh SpencerWalter and Ingrid SteeleDia and Paul SteigerMs. Donita StewartJohn D. and Patricia E. StewartRobert and Ann StolzJohn and Mary SumnerMr. and Mrs. Jack H. ThomasDavid ThomasonEllen and Ron VilasGreg and Sandy VlahosLin and DP WashburnMary Ellen and Reid WilkersonRichard T. “Stick” WilliamsRip and Cathey WinfieldSteve WorthyGillian Albinski and Douglas YoungStephen C. Young

Contributions received March 1,2010 to March 31, 2011.

PRODUCER’S CIRCLE members

ANNUAL CHAIRMAN’S DINNERMore than 85 Producer’s Circle Members attended the

Annual Chairman’s Dinner, hosted by Blumenthal’s new BoardChair Dorlisa K. Flur, her husband Peter and daughter Arella.Preferred Dining Partner Ruth’s Chris Steak House provided anexquisite meal while Members enjoyed lively conversation andthen a spectacular performance of BILLY ELLIOT THEMUSICAL at Ovens Auditorium.

Following the show, guests also attended a memorable castparty provided by Restaurant Partner Aquavina. Cast andMembers danced the night away when they weren’t playing Wiiand Twister with some of the younger actors! �

Blumenthal Members play Twister with the cast of BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL.

CORPORATEThe Blumenthal recognizes the following major donors, corporate partners for their generous support.

CORPORATE CAMPAIGN SAILS TOWARD GOALBlumenthal Performing Arts would like to thank its 2010

Corporate Campaign volunteers for another successful campaign.Led for a second consecutive year by Campaign Chair JamesDowns of Crosland, LLC, 44 solicitors contributed their time,enthusiasm and efforts to meet the $405,000 goal.

Leading campaign fundraisers: Rebecca Henderson of WellsFargo raised $57,500, Elizabeth Austin of Family Dollar Stores,Inc. raised $43,500, and Marty Viser, Piedmont Natural Gas,raised $35,000 from Charlotte’s corporate community.

Additionally, Blumenthal welcomes three new CorporateChairman Partners this year: The Babcock & Wilcox Company,Electrolux and Wells Fargo. These companies join 31 continuingCorporate Chairman Partners. �

RUTH'S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE SIZZLESJust seconds away from Knight Theater sits Ruth's Chris

Steak House, ready to provide distinguished service and fantasticdining for theater fans. Blumenthal’s Preferred Dining Partnerrenewed its partnership in January for another year and ownersJeff and Paula Conway are excited. “My wife and I are confidentthat this partnership is one that will remain fun and continue toflourish," said Jeff Conway. "With a daughter who is heavilyinvolved in the arts, our partnership with Blumenthal means agreat deal to us. As Charlotte continues to grow and attract morepeople, our partnership becomes even more lively and exciting!”Blumenthal recognizes Ruth’s Chris for its standard of excellenceand appreciates its tremendous support. �

MAJOR gifts

SIGNATURE gift

CHAIRMANpartners


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Preferred Caterer of Blumenthal Performing Arts

LEADERSHIP gift

Preferred Dining Partner of Blumenthal Performing Arts

Preferred Snack Food Provider of Blumenthal Performing Arts

partners

2010/11 Broadway Lights Series Sponsor

Official Healthcare Provider of Blumenthal Performing Arts

The Arts & Science Council supports Blumenthal Performing Arts’2011 Fiscal Year budget with a Basic Operating Grant in theamount of $345,401.

Blumenthal Performing Arts receives support from the North CarolinaArts Council, a division of the Department of Cultural Resources.

FOUNDATION giftsTHE DOCTOR FAMILY FOUNDATION

Education Programs and Student Scholarships

Blumenthal Performing Arts is pleased to welcome SilverFoxLimos as its first Chauffeur Partner. Owners James and MartaWeyman’s 17 years of experience add ease and luxury for artiststraveling to our theaters. A preferred service in Charlotte forindividuals and companies that require upper-level amenities,SilverFox’s attention to detail distinguishes its Town Car, SUV,

mini bus and limousine service.To discuss how your company might contribute special gifts

or services, please contact Kamilah Peebles, special gifts andadvertising sales coordinator at [email protected] or704.379.1356. �

SILVERFOX SHINES

DIRECTING PARTNERSCadwaladerRodgers Builders, Inc.

EXECUTIVE PARTNERSDaniel and Ana AcetiAlston & Bird, LLPCrosland, LLCDesign Build Mechanical CorporationFamily Dollar StoreHubbell Consulting, LLCHunton & Williams, LLPInterCon Building CorporationMidrex Technologies, Inc.NUCORParker Poe Adams & Bernstein LLPShurtape Technologies, LLCSouth ArtsSPX CorporationSteelFab, Inc.

MANAGING PARTNERSAREVA NP Inc.BB&TBelk, Inc.The Broadway LeagueC design Inc.Carolina TractorCharlotte Pipe and FoundryClariantDirect Source, Inc.Imperial PrintingInternetwork Services Inc.

Jack and Jill of AmericaFoundation, Inc.

KBRLincoln HarrisMcGrann Paper CorporationMcGuireWoods, LLPModular DesignsMorningstar Mini-StorageNASCAR Media GroupNorth Highland CompanyPreferred ElectricRobert W. Baird & Company, Inc.RSM McGladreyRobinson, Bradshaw & Hinson, P.A.Stewart Engineering, Inc.ToshibaUnited Mechanical CorporationW. B. Moore Company ofCharlotte, Inc.

ASSOCIATE PARTNERSAcoustics IncorporatedAshley Furniture HomeStoreAster Group CorporationB.E. Holbrooks Co., Inc.Bailiwick Data Systems, Inc.BE&K Building Group Inc.C.M. Steel, Inc.Carousel Capital CompanyCarroll Financial Associates, Inc.Charlotte Engineers LLPChicago Title Insurance CompanyChildress Klein Properties

Choate Construction Co.Coca-Cola Bottling Co. ConsolidatedCollins and Wright Inc.Design Strategies LLCDixon Hughes PLLCE.F. Belk & Son, Inc.Ec,a Architecture, PCElm EngineeringForsythe Solutions Group, Inc.Galvan Industries, Inc.Garmon & Co., Inc. Commerical FlooringHendrick Construction, Inc.Herlocker Mechanical Systems, Inc.High Performance Technologies, Inc.HITACHI Data SystemsHood Hargett & AssociatesHoopaugh Grading Co., LLCIKON Office SystemsInformation Innovators, Inc.Interstate Electric Co. Inc.The Keith CorporationKingGuinn Associates, P.A.L.T. Mechanical, Inc.Lake Norman Custom Glass, Inc.Lantern Builders, Inc.LITTLEMadison Construction Group, Inc.Marsh PropertiesMartin Marietta MaterialsMCC Mechanical, LLCMcCombs Steel Company, Inc.McDade Supply, Inc.McNeary, Inc.

Mechanical Contractors, Inc.Mooresville Glass and MirrorMV Momentum ConstructionMyers & Chapman, Inc.NASCAR FoundationNorth American Lawn &Landscape, LLC

PinPoint Safety, LLCReznick Group, P.C.Robert Pittenger CompanyRogers Unloading ServiceSchindler Elevator Corp.Shook KellySignature ConsultantsThe Southeastern GroupInc. - Paint, Drywall, Trim

SprintStaley Inc.Sun Belt Office & Data Suppliers, Inc.Tandus FlooringThe Title Company of North CarolinaToler, Bly & Associates, CPA, PLLCTropical Nut & Fruit Inc.Unique Express, Inc.Velligan Medical ServicesWalker EngineeringWarco Construction, Inc.White Knight Engineered ProductsWillis

Contributions received March 1, 2010 toMarch 31, 2011.


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CORPORATE partners continued

RESTAURANT/HOSPITALITYpartners

139 S. Tryon St.Charlotte, NC 28202

704.601.4141chimasteakhouse.com

PO Box 24644Charlotte, NC 28224704.373.2900

creativecateringinc.net

6903 Phillips Place Ct.Charlotte, NC 28210704.643.1664deandeluca.com

237 N. Tryon St.Charlotte, NC 28202704.332.4141dunhillhotel.com

401 N. Tryon St.Charlotte, NC 28202704.334.2739

rockbottomsouth.com

10722 Carmel Commons Blvd. Suite 420Charlotte, NC 28226704.622.9944

silverfoxlimos.com


sonomarestaurants.net

400 S. Tryon St., Suite M-1Charlotte, NC 28285704.332.5521

uptowncateringco.com

C R E A T I V E C A T E R I N G

435 S. Tryon St., Suite 180Charlotte, NC 28202

704.377.9911aquavina.com

Hearst TowerCorner of 5th & College St.Charlotte, NC 28202

704.927.2583 bluerestaurantandbar.com

225 E. 6th St.Charlotte, NC 28202704.347.2749brixxpizza.com


thecapitalgrille.com

onstageSpring/Summer 2011

BLUMENTHAL PERFORMING ARTS130 N. Tryon St.Charlotte NC 28202

JULY 26-31 • BELK THEATERAT BLUMENTHAL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

704.372.1000 • BlumenthalArts.org • Group Sales: 704.379.1380

MMaammmmaaMMiiaaNNoorrtthhAAmmeerriiccaa..ccoomm

© LITTLESTAR

onstage spring/summer 2011

Documents

touring broadway

musical original broadway

alice ripleyon tony

tony awardwinner

best musical revival

mostrecent tony award

blumenthal experiences

joan lordendr