westchester broadway · pdf filewestchester broadway theatre takes pride in our leisurely...

The Ginger Musical

BACKWARDS IN HIGH HEELS

WESTCHESTERWESTCHESTERWESTCHESTERWESTCHESTERWESTCHESTERWESTCHESTERBROADWAY THEATREBROADWAY THEATREBROADWAY THEATREBROADWAY THEATREBROADWAY THEATREBROADWAY THEATRE

PRESENTSPRESENTSPRESENTS

OUR 191OUR 191OUR 191STSTST PRODUCTION PRODUCTION PRODUCTION

Backwards in High Heels was conceived and developed by Lynette Barkley and Christopher McGovern. The book, musical arrangements and original songs are by McGovern (Lizzie Borden, A Visit To Roswell, Cagney and many other original songs and musicals.) It features vintage movie musical numbers, as well as original songs to showcase the major events in Ginger Roger’s life. The musical takes its title from a quote from a 1982 “Frank & Ernest” cartoon about Fred Astaire and Rogers: “Sure he was great, but don’t forget that Ginger Rogers did everything he did — backwards and in high heels.”

A trail blazer, Virginia Katharine McMath, won a Charleston contest in 1925 in her home-town of Fort Worth at age 15. Her nickname, “Ginger,” originated from her younger cousin who pronounced “Virginia” as “Ginja.” Family and friends continued to call her this, and later “Ginger” became the name on the marquees. She eventually borrowed her stepfather, Daddy John’s last name of Rogers. At age 18, she made her Broadway debut and quickly became a star. She was discovered by Hollywood and danced into America’s hearts in a string of 1930s RKO films, partnered with Fred Astaire.

Along the way, she had tempestuous rela-tionships with producers, co-stars and many husbands — but none rivaled the importance of her relationship with her mother. A former performer and reporter, Lela Owens, was an extremely strong influence on her daughter, Ginger. Mother and daughter worked together throughout Ginger’s career, with Lela credited as a pivotal influence on her daughter’s early success in New York and in Hollywood.

Ginger and Fred Astaire acted in 10 mov-ies together: The Barkleys of Broadway (1949), Carefree (1938), Flying Down to Rio (1933), Follow the Fleet (1936), The Gay Divorcee (1934), Roberta (1935), Shall We Dance (1937), The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle (1939), Swing Time (1936) and

ABOUT “BACKWARDS IN HIGH HEELS”

Top Hat (1935). She walked away from her part-nership with Astaire at the peak of its success, going on to become an acclaimed actress, as well as one of the industry’s first women to demand equal pay.

She won an Academy Award in 1940 for her title role in Kitty Foyle and by 1945, was the industry’s highest paid star. She made 73 mov-ies. She directed her first stage musical, Babes In Arms, at age 74 at The Tarrytown Music Hall!

Backwards In High Heels debuted in 2007 at the Florida Stage in West Palm Beach. The show broke box office records in its World Premiere production and has had numerous heralded performances around the country. WBT favorite, Jeremy Benton, is Directing and Choreographing the show, as well as reprising his role of Fred Astaire.

He said, “Bringing Backwards In High Heels to the WBT stage is something I’ve been look-ing forward to. Being a part of the original company was such a fulfilling experience, and portraying one of my childhood idols, Fred Astaire, was not only excitingly intimidating, but a dream come true.”

“I am looking forward to introducing the audi-ences to a side of Ginger that, unfortunately, was so often overshadowed by her dancing counterpart. She fought for everything she earned, and she was way ahead of her time in regards to being a female who stood her ground and negotiated with some of the most powerful men in show business to achieve what she wanted and deserved.”

“I couldn’t be prouder of these eight actors, especially my rising star of a leading lady, Darien Crago. She, like Ginger, has so much talent to give. Audiences will walk away feel-ing they’ve witnessed the emergence of a new theatre star!”

– PIA HAAS

WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE 1

ABOUT “BACKWARDS IN HIGH HEELS”

BILL STUTLER and BOB FUNKINGPresent

DARIEN CRAGOin

BACKWARDS IN HIGH HEELS

THE GINGER MUSICALConceived and Developed by

LYNNETTE BARKLEY and CHRISTOPHER MCGOVERNBook/Musical Arrangements/Original Songs by

CHRISTOPHER MCGOVERNOriginally Produced by FLORIDA STAGE

Louis Tyrell, Producing Director Nancy Barnett, Managing Director

Starring

ERIKA AMATO AVITAL ASULEEN JACOB ben WIDMAR MATT GIBSON SEBASTIAN GOLDBERG

RYAN STEER AMY VAN NORSTRANDand

JEREMY BENTON as Fred Astaire

Musical Direction

JOSE C. SIMBULAN Set Design by Costume Design by Lighting Design by STEVEN LOFTUS HEIDI GIARLO ANDREW GMOSER Sound Design by Properties by Hair/Wig Design by JONATHAN HATTON GRUMPY’S PROPS JODI MANCUSO Production Stage Manager Assistant Stage Manager VICTOR LUKAS JONATHAN STAHL Assistant Choreographer Associate Producer AMY VAN NORSTRAND LISA TISO

Directed & Choreographed by

JEREMY BENTON Costumes Provided by COSTUME WORLD THEATRICALS

Deerfield Beach, FL www.costumeworld.comThe development of BACKWARDS In HIGH HeeLS was partially funded by the

NATIONAL ALLIANCE FOR MUSIC THEATRE’S PRODUCER / WRITER INITIATIVEBACKWARDS In HIGH HeeLS is produced by special arrangement with Bruce Ostier

BRET ADAMS, LTD.448 West 44th Street, New York, NY 10036

OPENING DATE: August 13, 2015 CLOSING DATE: September 20, 2015

FOR YOUR INFORMATIONPERSONAL SAFETY & COMFORT Please note exits in theatre. Exits are indicated by illuminated “EXIT” signs. For the safety, comfort and enjoyment of yourself and others, please remain seated during the performance. In the unlikely necessity of evacuation, an announcement will be made over the public address system. Westchester Broadway Theatre is completely equipped with automatic sprinkler and smoke detector systems which cover all areas of the theatre. In the event of power failure, a separately powered, totally independent, battery-run lighting system is activated. Should you or one of your party experience illness or unusual discomfort, please notify a service person or management immediately.CAMERAS, RECORDERS The use of cameras and tape recorders during the performance is strictly prohibited by New York State copyright laws.CELL PHONES, BEEPERS Out of courtesy to the performers and everyone in the audience, please refrain from using cell phones and electronic devices in the theatre. Please be sure to turn off the audible features of these devices when in the theatre.GRATUITY Our guests have asked for an approximation of the food portion of the ticket for purposes of determining service gratuity which is not included in the ticket price. An amount equal to one-half of your ticket price should be considered as the dinner portion. Our staff has enjoyed serving you and hopes that our service has been to your satisfaction.

The Great Pumpkin

Caper

The Great Pumpkin

Caper

SantaClause and the

Magical Moon Dragon

anta

A couple of plucky kids, a Jack-o-Lantern and The Tooth Fairy have to save the world from a rap-ping Powerful Pumpkin that has placed a curse making everyday Halloween! Join us for a funny and lively one hour family musical filled with lovable ghosts and goblins.

Kids: Come dressed in your Halloween costume!

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 243 SHOWS: 11 AM, 1 PM, 3 PM.

ALL TICKETS $17 PLUS TAX (SHOW ONLY).

A young prince travels from another planet with his Magical Moon Dragon and ends up getting locked in Mr. Mooney’s Department Store on Christmas Eve. He’s not alone, because also inside are a little girl named Hope, a couple of thieves, and Mrs. Claus! How will everyone get home in time for Christmas? By calling Santa Claus! Everyone learns the meaning of the holidays through friendship and love in this new and original holiday classic.

SATURDAY, DEC. 12 & 193 SHOWS: 11 AM, 1 PM, 3 PM.

ALL TICKETS $17 PLUS TAX (SHOW ONLY).

Musicals for Kids at the WBT


CAST

Ginger Rogers ................................................................................DARIEN CRAGO*

Fred Astaire .................................................................................JEREMY BENTON*

Lela Rogers .......................................................................................ERIKA AMATO*

Ethel Merman and others ....................................................... AVITAL ASULEEN

Hermes Pan and others ...................................................... JACOB ben WIDMAR*

Jack Culpepper and others ...........................................................MATT GIBSON*

Lew Ayers and others .................................................. SEBASTIAN GOLDBERG

Bugs Burke and others ...................................................................... RYAN STEER*

Louise and others.........................................................AMY VAN NORSTRAND*

Rehearsal Assistant Stage Manager ............... AMANDA M. STUART*

Dance Captain ............................................................. JEREMY BENTON*

understudiesUnderstudies never substitute for listed players unless a specific announcement

for the appearance is made at the time of the performance.

For Ginger and Female Impersonator – AMY VAN NORSTRAND*;For Bill McGrath – MATT GIBSON*;

For Fred Astaire – RYAN STEER*;For Lela and Louise – AVITAL ASULEEN;For Jack Culpepper – JEREMY BENTON*.

*Member of Actors’ equity Association, the only professional union for Actors and Stage Managers.

A B O U T O U R S E R V I C E Westchester Broadway Theatre takes pride in our leisurely cocktail and dining service, which takes you

from the moment you enter the theatre until the start of the performance. If you desire a faster pace to your service, please let your servers know, and they will accommodate your special needs.

Top off your delicious meal perfectly with one of these scrumptious treats available for purchase!

LUXURY DESSERTSCHOCOLATE MOLTEN LAVA CAKE • LEMON SORBET

TURTLE CHEESECAKE OF DISTINCTIONPRODUCERʼS HOT FUDGE DELIGHT • APPLE CRISP CARAMEL

Order your choices before the show begins, and enjoy them during the intermission.

mUSICAL NUmBERS

– ACT ONE –From Texas to Broadway to Hollywood, and a greenroom to stage to cinema,

we follow Ginger Rogers’ journey to stardom.

Overture

Fascinating Rhythm Opening .....................................Ginger and Company

Tame These Feet .................................................................................Ginger

They All Laughed/The Charleston Competition .............................. Ginger, Man #2 and Man #3

Fascinating Rhythm/The Orpheum Circuit ......Ginger, Lela and Company

A Fine Romance .................................................................................Ginger

Baby Face ........................................................................Lela and Company

I Got Rhythm ...........Ethel Merman, Ginger, Jack Culpepper and Company

embraceable You ............................................... Jack Culpepper and Ginger

Babyface (reprise) .....................................................................................Lela

Domesticity ..............................Ginger, Jack Culpepper, Man #2 and Man #3

All My eggs in One Basket ................................................Ginger and Lela

Screentest/They All Laughed (reprise)..................................... Full Company

Act I Finale: We’re In the Money ................. George Schaeffer, Bugs Burke, Ginger, Lela and Company

– intermission –

6 WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE


mUSICAL NUmBERS

– Musicians – JOSE C. SIMBULAN . . . . . . . . . . . . .Musical Director/KeyboardsKEN ROSS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Percussion/DrumsJORDAN JANCZ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BassRON KOZAK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ReedsJOHN TILTON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CelloVON ANN STUTLER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Musical Contractor

– ACT two –entre’Acte

They All Laughed/Hollywood Studio ...................................Full Company

Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off ....... Ginger, Fred, Hermes Pan and Louise

Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off Grand Waltz ..................Ginger and Fred

Let’s Face the Music and Dance (trio) ..................... Ginger, Lela and Fred

Change Partners .................................Ginger, Lela, Lew Ayers, Jack Briggs, Jaques Bergerac and William Marshall

Shall We Dance ......................................................... Fred, Ginger and Lela

The Art of Sport ......................... Ginger, Jimmy Stewart, Fred, Bugs Burke, Hermes Pan, Bette Davis, Katharine Hepburn,

Marlene Dietrich and Company

Pick Yourself Up ................................................................Ginger and Fred

You’ll never Know ................................................................................ Lela

But...When? ....................................................................................... Ginger

Fascinatin’ Rhythm (reprise) Kitty Foyle/The Oscars ....................... Ginger and Company

the perfect Gift for any occasion!(914) 592-2222

www.Broadwaytheatre.com


mUSICAL CREDITS

we are live Westchester Broadway Theatre employs musicians from the American Federation of Musicians.

Musicians perform from a location backstage.

“LET’S CALL THE WHOLE THING OFF”(George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin)© 1937 (RENEWED) CHAPPELL & CO. (ASCAP) ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. USED BY PERMISSION .

“SHALL WE DANCE”(George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin)© 1937 (RENEWED) GEORGE GERSHWIN MUSIC (ASCAP) AND IRA GERSHWIN MUSIC (ASCAP)ALL RIGHTS ADMINISTERED BY WB MUSIC CORP. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. USED BY PERMISSION.

“FASCINATING RHYTHM” (George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin)© 1924 (RENEWED) GEORGE GERSHWIN MUSIC (ASCAP) & IRA GERSHWIN MUSIC (ASCAP)ALL RIGHTS OBO GEORGE GERSHWIN MUSIC (ASCAP) & IRA GERSHWIN MUSIC (ASCAP)ADMINISTERED BY WB MUSIC CORP. (ASCAP) ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. USED BY PERMISSION.

“THEY ALL LAUGHED” (George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin)© 1936, 1937 (RENEWED) GEORGE GERSHWIN MUSIC (ASCAP) & IRA GERSHWIN MUSIC (ASCAP)ALL RIGHTS OBO GEORGE GERSHWIN MUSIC (ASCAP) & IRA GERSHWIN MUSIC (ASCAP)ADMINISTERED BY WB MUSIC CORP. (ASCAP) ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. USED BY PERMISSION.

“I GOT RHYTHM” (George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin)© 1930 (RENEWED) WB MUSIC CORP. (ASCAP) ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. USED BY PERMISSION.

“EMBRACEABLE YOU” (George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin)© 1930 (RENEWED) WB MUSIC CORP. (ASCAP) ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. USED BY PERMISSION.

“WE’RE IN THE MONEY”BY AL DUBIN AND HARRY WARREN© 1933 (RENEWED) WB MUSIC CORP. (ASCAP) ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. USED BY PERMISSION.

“LET’S FACE THE MUSIC AND DANCE” “CHANGE PARTNERS”“I’M PUTTING ALL MY EGGS IN ONE BASKET”Music and Lyrics by Irving BerlinThese selections are used by special arrangement with The Rodgers and Hammerstein Organization, on behalf of the Estate of Irving Berlin. All Rights Reserved.

A Taste of Broadway & fi ne dining awaits you and the WBT App puts it all at your fi ngertips!

View Show SchedulesAccess Special Promotions & Discounts

Purchase Tickets, Gift Certificates and Season Subscriptions

Get all the Info on Upcoming ShowsPlus Directions and More

DON’T MISS A THING!Download the

WBT App today!

SEPTEMBER 24 – NOVEMBER 29, ’15and DECEMBER 30, ’15 – JANUARY 31, ’16

“Every ingredient that the perfect musical should have.” – The New York Times

An Absolute Jewel of American Musical Theatretakes to theWBT Stage!


JEREMY BENTON (Fred Astaire; Director/Choreographer) is just back from playing Bert in The Lyric Theatre of Okla-homa’s production of Mary Poppins. He was

recently seen playing Bob Hope in The York Theatre Company’s premiere production, Cagney The Musical. Jeremy was last seen at WBT playing Phil Davis in Irving Berlin’s White Christmas and Don Lockwood in Singin’ In The Rain. Favorite performances include Billy Lawlor in 42nd Street (Broadway - opposite Shirley Jones), Billy Crocker in Anything Goes (National Tour - opposite Rachel York), and Kenneth Gibson in Call Me Madam (Lyric Theatre - opposite Beth Leavel). Other credits include: Film: The Producers. City Center Encores: Gentlemen Prefer Blondes - (w/ Megan Hilty). Off Broadway: Jimmy Shreve in Countess of Storyville (w/ Deborah Cox), Jerry Adaire in Peg O’ My Heart. American/World Premieres: Stormy Weather (w/ Leslie Uggams), Raymond Neff in The Witches of eastwick. Regional: Don Lockwood in Singin’ In The Rain, Wally Winston in Animal Crackers, and Bobby Child in Crazy For You. Upcoming: This winter, Jeremy returns to the role of Phil Davis in the National Tour of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Much love and thanks to WBT, CTG, and MJM. Visit: www.jeremybenton.net

DARIEN CRAGO (Ginger) is truly honored to be portraying this beloved woman. Most re-cently, she played Peggy in 42nd Street beside Ms. Karen Ziemba (The Lex),

participated in a workshop of Top Hat (dir/choreo Chris Gattelli), and was in an Irving Berlin tribute with Randy Skinner (92Y). Earlier this year, Darien performed in two City Center Encores! productions: Lady, Be Good! (tap danc-ing alongside Tommy Tune) and Paint Your Wagon (featured pas-de-deux). Nat’l Tour: White Christmas. Regional Highlights: World Premiere of Holiday Inn (Goodspeed, Muny), Randy Skinner’s Dames at Sea, and Thoroughly Modern Millie (Paper Mill). Many thanks to Jeremy, The Mine, and my new Westchester family! Love to O & D.

WHO’S WHO

Ciao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao BellaCiao Bella!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!COLUMBUS DAY

CELEBRATION

Vincent Talarico

AND HIS BAND

STARRING

Monday, October 12

PRIVATE LUXURY BOXESEnhance your evening with a Private Luxury

Box Celebration! For an additional cost, private Luxury Boxes may be reserved for

parties of six or more. Each provides elegant dining, has its own private powder room,

and overlooks the audience and stage.

For more info, call our Luxury Box Rep at (914) 592-8730


LIVE CONCERT – MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9

When Swing Was King BENNY GOODMAN TRIBUTE

Tuesday, October 20 Tuesday, October 20

SIMPLY DIAMOND

Brian La BlancReturns in a Stunning Live Performance!SWEET CAROLINE CRACKLIN’ ROSIEFOREVER IN BLUE JEANS

ERIKA AMATO (Lela) WBT Debut! Some recent theatre credits include: National Tour: Flashdance – The Musical (Miss Wilde). Off-Broad-way: Signs Of Life (Berta),

The Sphinx Winx (Cleopatra). Regional: Into The Woods (Witch), Hairspray (Velma), Cinderella (Fairy Godmother), How To Succeed… (Miss Jones), White Christmas (Betty), Sleeping Beauty Wakes (Bad Fairy - LA Ovation Nomination), Anything Goes (Reno - ITL Awards Nomination), nine (Luisa - OC Weekly Awards Nomination), The Sound Of Music (Maria - OC Register Best Actress). TV/film credits include Quantum Leap, Buffy The Vampire Slayer, and Disney’s enchanted. Erika has also released 5 albums with her band, Velvet Chain. www.erikaamato.com

AVITAL ASULEEN (ethel Merman and others) is thrilled to be back in Elmsford after playing Mrs. Snoring Man in WBT’s production of Irving Berlin’s White

Christmas. Avital recently played Ms. Shields in the National Tour of A Christmas Story, and is delighted to be returning to the show this holi-day season. Favorite regional credits include Anytime Annie in 42nd Street, Sweet Sue in Sugar, and dancing in productions of no, no, nanette, On Your Toes, and Cabaret. Avital is also the creator of The Choreography Lab at The New York Theatre Barn. Many thanks to Jeremy, Lisa, and this incredible cast, and love to my family, friends, and Dann. www.Asuleen.com

JACOB ben WIDMAR (Hermes Pan and others) Broadway: The Book of Mormon, Xanadu (u/s Whoopi Goldberg), Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Tours/

NY: The Book of Mormon, Mary Poppins, White Christmas, nO, nO, nannette (Encores!). Original productions: White noise (La Petit), White Christmas (Pantages, L.A.), and Dancing in the Dark (Old Globe). Regional: Goodspeed, Paper Mill, Reprise!, Sacramento Music Circus, and more. Proud AEA member.

WHO’S WHO

THE VIDEOTAPING OF THIS PRODUCTION IS A VIOLATION OF THE UNITED STATES COPYRIGHT

LAW AND AN ACTIONABLE FEDERAL OFFENSE


MATT GIBSON (Jack Culpepper and others) Broadway: Gypsy. Off-Broadway: The Underclass-man (Prospect/ The Duke), new Girl in Town (Irish Rep). Favorite Regional

AeA Roles: Jimmy (Thoroughly Modern Millie), Slank/ Hawking Clam (Peter and the Starcatcher), Curly and Will (Oklahoma!), Tulsa (Gypsy), Phil (White Christmas), Claude (Hair), Lt. Cable (South Pacific), Cornelius (Hello, Dolly!). Workshops: Lippa Project (Spruce Lake Theatrical), Queen Mother (Goodspeed Musicals). Other: Woody (Toy Story: The Musical) Disney Cruise Line, Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Metropolitan Opera, PBS Great Performances, I Am Harvey Milk (Avery Fisher Hall), On the Rocks Film (co-founder). BFA: NYU Tisch/CAP21. www.mrmattgibson.com. Big thanks to Jeremy for this opportunity.

SEBASTIAN GOLDBERG (Lew Ayers and others) is originally from Lexing-ton, MA and is thrilled to be back on the Westchester Broadway

Theatre stage after appearing in Mary Poppins last summer. Sebastian grew up in a dancing family, and has had a lot of fun pursuing a career in musical theater and dance. Favorite credits include Crazy For You, Singin’ in the Rain, 42nd Street, and being a member of the original touring cast of Tap: the Show. Thanks to his par-ents, castmates, and friends.

RYAN STEER (Bugs Burke and others) is excited to be making his Westchester Broadway Theatre debut and pay-ing tribute to a legend. National tours: Anything

Goes, A Chorus Line. Regional: Paper Mill, McCarter, Lyric OKC, Arizona Broadway. He is a graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma and of the William Esper Studio in New York. He would like to thank Jeremy for this opportunity, his fellow cast and crew for their work and inspiration, MSA, his loving fam-ily, and his besties for keeping him together.

AMY VAN NORSTRAND (Louise and others) is thrilled to dance her way onto the Westchester Broadway Theatre Stage! Proud Point Park Univer-sity grad. Recent credits

include: St. Louis MUNY (Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn), The Goodspeed Opera House (Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn/World Premier), Papermill Playhouse (Thoroughly Modern Millie), Gateway Playhouse (42nd Street, Singin’ in the Rain, 9 to 5 the Musical, White Christmas), Maltz Jupiter Playhouse (Thoroughly Modern Millie), Ogunquit Playhouse (9 to 5 the Musical, Thoroughly Modern Millie), and the John W. Engeman Theater (42nd Street). Many thanks to Jeremy, Lisa, and my amazing family for their constant love an support. For my fiancé Brian; I cannot wait until October 12th!

WHO’S WHO

Special NoticeSKeyboard Programming by STEPHEN FERRI

Set Construction & Installation SCENE WORKS, Ossining, NY

extra Special Lighting equipment provided by SILENT G PRODUCTIONS, Yorktown Heights, NY

Assistant Lighting Designer KEVIN GLEASON

Stitcher PAMELA CUMMINGS

WHO’S WHO


JOSE C. SIMBULAN (Music Director) is thrilled to be back at WBT after assisting with Godspell and last summer’s The Wizard of Oz. Broadway pit credits include Lestat and the revival of A Chorus Line. He recently conducted West Side Story at the Merry-Go-Round Playhouse, and assisted with Man of La Mancha starring Anthony Warlow at the Shakespeare Theatre Company in Washington, DC. Other DC-area credits: Sunday in the Park with George and Oklahoma! at Arena Stage, and The Kennedy Center’s Sondheim Celebration. He also serves as the accompanist for the Unified Professional Theatre Auditions (UPTA) and Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC) - 22 years!

STEVEN LOFTUS (Scenic Designer) has been one of our resident designers since Kiss Me, Kate in 2002. Some of his favorites at WBT include Gypsy, Phantom, Aida, Miss Saigon and In the Heights. As a set designer, Steve has provided scenery for many regional theaters, colleges and high schools around the Tri-state area. As well as a few tours and special events at Lincoln Center. Steve is also the owner of Scene Works Inc., a fully serviced scene shop providing all aspects of scenic design and fabrication based out of Ossining, NY. He is most proud to be a father to Elias and Aubrey.

HEIDI GIARLO (Costume Designer) has been with Westchester Broadway Theatre since our 1995 production of Guys and Dolls. Since then, she has designed 12 productions for the WBT. She spent time in the wardrobe and prop department at the WBT before working for LIVENT as the house manager for The Ford Center for the Performing Arts (Ragtime, Jesus Christ Superstar). In 2001 Heidi returned to the WBT as the box office manager and currently runs our Group Sales and Special Events depart-ment. Just like Norma Desmond, she is happy to make her “return!” to be a part of the Backwards in High Heels team. - For David.

ANDREW GMOSER (Lighting Design) has lit all of our mainstage productions since 1990. Over the years he has created the sets and/or lighting for a multitude of productions through-out Westchester and beyond, and is a proud recip-ient of the Cab Calloway Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Performing Arts in Westchester. Andrew loves his job designing light-ing for all levels of theatre, from high school pro-grams through professional Broadway-caliber productions. For over thirty years he was set and lighting designer (and from time to time, direc-tor) for Asbury Summer Theatre, and is prepar-

Tuesday, October 27Featured Star of Broadway’s

Hit, “The Illusionist.” TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10

Playing the Best Modern Country Music in a Show That’s One Big Party!


WHO’S WHO

Tues., November 17MATINEE & EVENING

America’s Most Patriotic Musical Show!

ing for his 23rd season with the MacHaydn Theatre in upstate New York. Through his com-pany, Silent G Productions, Andrew provides the-atrical lighting design, equipment, and consulta-tion for live theatre, dance, and concerts. Andrew’s best and most important production is with his lovely wife, Catherine: their sixteen year old twins, Thomas and Elizabeth! Thank you, Bob.

VICTOR LUKAS (Production Stage Manager/Properties) is happy to be home after spending many years touring the country and having played in every state. Broadway and Equity National Tours include: Bring Back Birdie, Oh Brother, Joe’s...Coat, Cats, Teddy And Alice, One night Stand, Woman Of The Year w/ Lauren Bacall, the Twyla Tharp/Billy Joel musical Movin’ Out, Cy Coleman’s Welcome To The Club and Barnum, Star of Indiana’s Blast!, Blood Brothers with Petula Clark, Carole King and Shaun & David Cassidy, and Disney’s Aida. For the WBT he has stage man-aged many shows including the acclaimed Aida and Little Shop of Horrors, both directed by Patricia Wilcox; Richard Stafford’s Gypsy with Karen Mason; and Jonathan Stahl’s nine. Off-Broadway shows include Annie Warbucks, Travels With My Aunt, Tuesday’s With Morrie, and Joan Of Arc with Glenn Close. Favorite gig – Touring with Petula Clark on her 2008 concert tour of England and Wales. Victor also runs “Grumpy’s Props,” a prop rental shop in Carmel NY. Grumpy’s Props also specializes in home & com-mercial decorating for holidays & theme parties. Visit us online at www.grumpysprops.com.

VON ANN STUTLER (Musical Contractor) Since the inception of the theatre 41 years ago, Von Ann has been responsible for putting together the excellent musicians which make up our orchestra. Each show has unique instrumen-tation requirements. Von Ann, in consultation with the musical director, determines the make-up and particular talented personnel to fulfill the show’s requirements. Von Ann is a musician having training in clarinet, piano and harp. She was a voice major at Michigan State University. She has raised 5 children and is the proud grandmother of 7 (four girls and 3 boys).

LISA TISO (Associate Producer) is happy to be a part of the WBT family which she joined in 1979 as a buffet girl. Lisa has worked in nearly every department in our organization and, since 1991,

“EXTRAORDINARY” – NEW YORK DAILY NEWS

Monday, November 16

BEATLEMANIANOW


WHO’S WHO

as Associate Producer and as Producer on over 25 mainstage productions. Lisa and her 21 year old daughter, Carmen live in Ardsley with Maximus, their very own Toto.

BOB FUNKING AND BILL STUTLER (Owners / executive Producers) On July 9, 2015, the West-chester Broadway Theatre proudly celebrated its 41ST

ANNIVERSARY, as well as the 25th Anniversary in this

specifically designed, state of the art theatre. Bill and Bob, 2004 inductees into the “Westchester County Business Hall of Fame,” pioneered the Dinner Theatre concept in Westchester when they opened An Evening Dinner Theatre on July 9, 1974. Having designed and built An Evening

from the ground up as a theatre that serves din-ner and lunch, they established their operation as a cultural mainstay in the tri-state area. The Westchester Broadway Theatre is the only year round theatre in Westchester where Broadway performers, directors and designers gather to create the best in Musical Theatre. (They have produced more shows than most Broadway pro-ducers. Backwards In High Heels is our 191st Mainstage Production.) The Westchester Broadway Theatre is the longest running, 52 week a year Equity theatre in the State of New York. Each show is produced exclusively for the theatre and each is approached in the same man-ner as Broadway Productions: casting Broadway performers at auditions in New York City, and hiring the creative staff (Directors, Choreographers, Musical Directors, Set, Costume and Lighting Designers). On the dark nights of the musicals, Bill and Bob have pre-sented over 900 Monday and Tuesday night spe-cials and, in 1997, inaugurated the Gold Star Series of Concerts presenting Jackie Mason to a sold-out house. Other great performers in the Gold Star series have been Tom Jones, George Carlin, Paul Anka, Wayne Newton, and Harry Belafonte. With the continued support of the people of the tri-state area, we pledge to continue to present the best in theatre and dining.

Live Musical Coach Bus TourFull Day of live music as we

travel throughout Manhattan.Our Actors Equity singer will perform on the bus as we discover New York and hear great voices.

Along the way learn about NY from licensed guides!• Historical Broadway Musical review!• Cultural• Anecdotal humor• Themed• Neighborhoods

For Individuals, Seniors, Corporations, Schools, Family Outings & Groups of Any Size

For more information Email us at: [email protected]

Call us at: (914) 633-6658Catch us on the web at:

www.ztravelandleisure.comPick up at local locations!

“The Most Unique Theatre Experience and Entertaining Tour”

Numerous stops on & off bus, lunch stop & minimal walking!

“Z” TRAVEL & LEISUREWALKING & BUS TOURS

This Delightful New Musical Picks Up12 years after “A Christmas Carol”

DECEMBER 3 – 27, 2015

A CAROL FOR A LATER CHRISTMAS

st


One Broadway Plaza, Elmsford, NY 10523Box Office (914) 592-2222Business Office (914) 592-2268 www.BroadwayTheatre.com

ADMINISTRATION Bill Stutler - PresidentBob Funking - Vice President / TreasurerLisa Tiso - Producer / Company ManagerJeffrey Lifrieri - Assistant Treasurer / HR ManagerJanet Schwartz - Internal AuditorArlene Tiso - BookkeeperPia Haas - Press / Public Relations DirectorSteve Calleran - House ManagerTarah Vega - House Manager

BOX OFFICERon Schlichting - Box Office Manager

GROUP SALESHeidi Giarlo - Manager (914) 592-2225Jessica Tucci - Group Sales Coordinator (914) 592-2225 Patrick McGillicuddy - (914) 592-2225Helen DeLago - (203) 637-9393Joanie Varela - (646) 385-2936

LUXURY BOXES/GROUP SALESGinny Baisi - (914) 592-8730

KITCHENAlex Sampaio - ChefRyan Stutler - Dining Room ManagerAnn Marie Mosca - Asst. Dining Room Manager

TECHNICAL STAFFAaron Cassese - AutomationMike Amabile - Deck AudioRana Attia - WardrobeKayla Brought - PropsSeth Crosby - DeckhandSarah Demarest - Sound EngineerKristine Kuligowski - Light Board OperatorColleen Till - Wardrobe

Program Design by Ferguson MarketingPresident: Raymond Ferguson

Art Director: Christine Fiedler Sarasin175 North Main Street, Branford, CT 06405

(203) 488 5262Produced For

Westchester Broadway TheatreBy Today Media Custom Communications

2 Clinton Avenue, Rye, NY 10580(914) 345 0601 Ext.117

ALL PERSONS SEEKING ADMISSION MUST HAVE A TICKET, including children of any age. IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING BRINGING A CHILD to the theatre, feel free to contact the Box Office with any questions regard-ing the content of the show. Although opin-ions on appropriate viewing may differ, we will do our best to answer your questions regard-ing language, violence and adult situations.

WHO’S WHOACTORS’ EQUITY ASSOCIATION(AEA), founded in 1913, rep-resents more than 45,000 actors and stage managers in the United States. Equity seeks to advance, promote and foster the

art of live theatre as an essential component of our society. Equity negotiates wages and work-ing conditions, providing a wide range of bene-fits, including health and pension plans. AEA is a member of the AFL-CIO, and is affiliated with FIA, an international organization of perform-ing arts unions. The Equity emblem is our mark of excellence. www.actorsequity.org

IN THE

M D Christmas Christmas

Tuesday, December 8MATINEE & EVENING

GLENN MILLERORC H E S T R A

WITH THE

LIKE US ON

Facebook

FOLLOW US ON

Twitter

westchester broadway · pdf filewestchester broadway theatre takes pride in our leisurely...

Documents