Oracle + Red Theater present R+J: The Vineyard

Based on Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare Adapted by Janette Bauer and Aaron Sawyer Directed by Aaron Sawyer

This is a production in spoken English and American Sign Language

This production is supported by grants from The Chicago Community Trust, The Saints and the ChicagoDepartment of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE).

This performance runs 90 minutes with no intermission. Please silence your mobile phones.

R+J: The Vineyard 1 Support Chicago’s Award-Winning Free Theatre Today!

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DIRECTOR’S NOTES

The first time I saw sign language on stage, it filled me with rage. There was no way in, and I wanted to scream. Those feelings scared me, and I needed to figure out why. I became obsessed. After two years of study and rejection, I found myself directing (what many consider) a cliché, high school play in a language I didn’t understand.

Why did I do this? Maybe it’s because I was new in Chicago and without friends. It was the third restart of my career, and I was not feeling respected/not being heard. Ironically, I found Deaf Culture to be the best place for me to be heard. How stimulating to have eye contact! How engaging are facial expressions! Shakespeare’s words suddenly felt new. Dense lines were interpreted by an eyebrow and a gesture. Physicalizing the metaphors added a richness and clarity unavailable to the voice alone. Most importantly they stopped the need to think about the Bard’s words- always a few moments behind the play- and allowed me to feel.

2 Oracle Productions & Red Theater DIRECTOR’S NOTES c o n t.

As an audience member, I ask you to relax when you can’t understand every word or get every joke- do you ever? Give up the idea that things need to be a certain way. You can really ruin this show for yourself if you want. New things will ping; old images will pop. The Capulets and Montagues are two equal houses unable to transcend their own expectations. R+J show us that love is the only thing that can help us overcome our barriers.

-Aaron Sawyer, Director

DRAMATURGY NOTES

The Martha’s Vineyard of the 1800’s-- where we, somewhat inventively, lay our scene-- was like no other place in America. The island had been insulated for over a hundred years, and over that period, a large hereditary deaf population had developed, creating their own sign language, which Deaf and hearing islanders alike learned from an early age.

In the 1890’s, as tourists began to discover the island’s mild climate and beauty, sign language became an important cultural signifier for islanders, like our Montagues-- a way of maintaining social distance while defining identity. In this world, you’ll see characters create and use name signs for each other and for the people they interact with. These name signs often reflect physical or personality traits. For instance, the name sign for Tybalt looks like the sign for “stuck-up.”

The island quickly grew economically dependent on tourism, but there was a dark side to the influx of hearing newcomers to the island; not only did they misunderstand sign language and Deaf culture, mistaking its directness for rudeness or aggression, but they also brought their prejudice with them, seeing deafness as a defect. Alexander Graham Bell, who taught oralism to deaf students, even did research on Martha’s Vineyard in the 1880’s, hoping to find a genetic cause and ultimately eradicate deafness altogether by preventing deaf intermarriage. “The production of a defective race of human beings,” he argued, “would be a great calamity to the world.” Martha’s Vineyard had become a resort; it ceased to be a refuge. As schools for the deaf became more numerous elsewhere in the United States, more and more Deaf islanders settled elsewhere.

Looking at the gingerbread cottages and cobblestone streets of Martha’s Vineyard today, you can see almost nothing of the community that settled it. The vibrant culture that existed for over a century has been replaced by an abundance of weekend getaways and second homes. The Deaf influence there is gone, but the legacy of the Deaf islanders remains, woven into the larger narrative of American Deaf culture and the development of American Sign Language.

-Claire Alston, Dramaturg

R+J: The Vineyard 3 Chicago Community Trust provided key funding to help establish a community and resources for this project.

The Saints provided support to help pay the unique artists required for this production.

This project is also supported by an Individual Artist Program Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events as well as a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency through federal funds provided by the National Endowment for the Arts

CAST

Romeo*...... Brendan Connelly^ Juliet*...... McKenna Liesman Benvolio*...... Brenda Scott Wlazlo Mercutio*...... Chris Schroeder^ Abram/Chorus*...... C. Richard Costes^ Lady Capulet...... Lona Livingston Nurse*...... Beth Harris Tybalt/Paris...... Jeff Kurysz+ Sampson/Servant/Chorus/Page/Friar John*/Apothecary...... Pavi Proczko Prince*...... Michael Stark^ Sister Laurence*/Gregory/ Chorus...... Simone Zebot

Abram*/Chorus Understudy...... Olivia Soliz Tyblat/Paris Understudy...... Christopher Paul Mueller

* Denotes a Character who knows American Sign Language ^ Denotes an Actor who is Deaf or Hard of Hearing + Denotes a Red Theater Chicago Company Member

SETTING

This play is set in 1890’s Martha’s Vineyard. At this time, this island was a unique place where hearing and deaf lived together communicating using Martha’s Vineyard Sign Language.

4 Oracle Productions & Red Theater CAST BIOGRAPHIES

Beth Harris (Nurse) is Brendan Connelly thrilled to be part of R + (Romeo), from J: THE VINEYARD. She Chicago, is making his has been seen professional theatre previously in Chicago debut. He has with Fury Theatre’s Bard previously appeared in at the Boundary (Host Skooled’s TV pilot and in MERRY WIVES, Snug/Lion in A onstage in SNOW WHITE and MURDER ME MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM, and a watch ALWAYS. He is currently studying to member in MUCH ADO), and she has become a physical therapy assistant. He worked with the young actors of Fury’s has studied acting at Second City and Teen Bard (Stefano in TEMPEST and Oakton Community College. He is thrilled Gertrude in HAMLET). She is a founding to be part of this production and to ensemble member of (the currently continue to pursue his career path. defunct) Suffigance Shakespeare with whom she played Beatrice in MUCH ADO Christopher and Jaques in AS YOU LIKE IT. Beth recently Schroeder (Mercutio) returned from playing Lady Percy, Mistress began his acting career Page, and Regan in a walking tour of at the age of 5 with scenes with Shakespeare by the Sea in St. CenterLight Theater. John’s Newfoundland. Beth trained at Favorite roles include: Neptune Theatre in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Danny Zuko in GREASE, and teaches English at Truman College. Tony in WEST SIDE STORY and Rooster in ANNIE to name a few. He was involved in a Brenda Scott Wlazlo couple of movies. Christopher wants to (Benvolio) is thrilled to thank Aaron Sawyer for this great be a part of R+J and to opportunity and his family and friends for make her Red Theater/ their love and support. He enjoys playing Oracle debut. Other soccer and watching hockey. Christopher recent credits include, had a great time doing this production. BECHDEL FEST 3: FIND CAST: Thank you for making this a fun YOU VOICE (Broken Nose Theater), TODAY production, I enjoy working with yall. WE ESCAPE (Tympanic Theatre), NIGHTMARE ON BACKSTREET (The Public Christopher Paul House), EL STORIES: RAINBOW TRAIN Mueller (Tybalt/Paris (Waltzing Mechanics), and HEY JACKADD, Understudy) is in his YOU’RE RICH! (Beesknees Productions) She sixth show with Red holds a BA in Theater from Florida State Theater, and is happy University, and graduated from the to be back. He’s been American Musical and Dramatic Academy’s seen around the city Musical Theater Conservatory in New York. with the likes of Red Tape, Red Moon, First She currently can also be seen across the Floor, Collaboraction, and more. Thanks to funny venues with her all girl improv team, his family for letting him do such crazy Skort! And now, a public declaration of love things. to the husband, who cooks good. :)

R+J: The Vineyard 5 CAST BIOGRAPHIES c o n t.

Jeff Kurysz (Tybalt/ zooming around downtown as a Segway Paris) is so excited to Tour Guide for Steve’s Segway Tours and be a part of this Trikke Chicago. Favorite Chicago credits production! He is a Red include HOLIDAY TRAIN 2012 (Waltzing Theater Company Mechanics) and T.S Eliot’s THE WASTELAND Member and was last which she helped create, develop, and tour seen in Red Theater’s with the company she is a performer and RED HAMLET. He is a recent graduate of the Teaching Artist with, Chicago Danztheatre School at Steppenwolf 2015. Most recent Ensemble. Regional Credits: June in credits include Teatro Vista’s ROMEO AND SANDERS FAMILY CHRISTMAS with Sierra JULIET, ’s ONE CAME HOME, Repertory Theatre of northern California and Emerald City Theatre’s HANSEL AND and Nina in VANYA AND SONIA AND GRETEL. Jeff would like to thank his friends MASHA AND SPIKE with The Classic Theatre and family for always being so loving and of San Antonio, Texas. She would like to supportive. And for his latest acting mantra thank the director, cast, and the whole stolen from Friday Night Lights: Clear eyes, amazing team for such an incredible full hearts, can’t lose! process and for boldly telling this story. Love to Mom, Dad, Tessa. Lona Livingston (Lady Capulet) is delighted Michael J. Stark to join Red Theatre in (Prince) is a veteran this amazing Shakespeare actor of 11 production. She was plays. His last role was recently in Ann Carson’s Laertes in Bailiwick’s ANTIGONICK at HAMLET DREAMS. The Sideshow Theatre. Lona is an ensemble following roles were member at Red Tape Theatre and was The Sea Captain and Officer in Oak Park Mother in HAMLET IS DEAD, NO GRAVITY. Shakespeare Festival’s TWELFTH NIGHT, Previous credits include a Best Ensemble ’s MACBETH, Next in IDOMENEUS at Sideshow Theatre’s ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA, Theatre and roles in Jeff Award productions Cleveland Signstage’s TEMPEST. KEEPER IN of ELEPHANT’S GRAVEYARD and LOVE OF THE TOWER and GHOST with Cleveland THE NIGHTINGALE at Red Tape. Lona sends Shakespeare Festival and several roles with special thanks to Red Theatre and the fine National Theatre of the Deaf (NTD), such as cast and crew of R+J: THE VINEYARD. You OTHELLO, MUCH ADO, A MIDDLE NIGHT’S are beautiful people. DREAM, and SHAKESPEARE UNMAKSED in 1996-1997. His most memorable role was McKenna Liesman Tuc in TASTE OF SUNRISE with (Juliet) is thrilled to Contemporary Theater (CATCO) in once again work with Columbus, Ohio and he was a finalist for Red Theatre, last seen the best male actor in Central Ohio Theatre in THE WEDDING at Roundtable Award in 1999. Michael will be Stage 773. McKenna celebrating his 13th wedding anniversary graduated from with his wife Jill in October with two Webster Conservatory in St. Louis with a children, Jeffrey and Melissa. Special B.F.A in Musical Theater and now attends thanks to Red Theatre for a wonderful Columbia College in the Sign Language opportunity to be part of another Interpreter program. You can also catch her Shakespearean play.

6 Oracle Productions & Red Theater CAST BIOGRAPHIES c o n t.

Olivia Soliz (Abram*/ without the gratuitous violence. A Chorus Understudy) is graduate of Kent State University’s Theatre marking her first Studies program, Richard has numerous involvement with Red credits under his belt both in Chicago and and Oracle productions in Ohio where he served as the Executive and she couldn’t be Director for the Oakland Center for the Arts more excited. She’d like in Youngstown. Having moved to Chicago to thank Kanye for his support along with two years ago he has been working her tireless stage manager and beautiful consistently onstage and off. Acting roommate, Mary Kate. credits in the Windy City include THE GLASS MENAGERIE, THE REINDEER Pavi Proczko MONOLGUES, and TEMPEST (Cuckoo’s (Sampson/Servant/ Theater Project). Richard has a wealth of Chorus/Page/Friar Shakespearean experience - including John/Apothecary) has ROMEO AND JULIET, MUCH ADO, MERRY been in shows such as WIVES, OTHELLO, MIDSUMMER, TEMPEST, MERRY WIVES (Chicago and WINTER’S TALE; as well as directing Shakespeare Theater); productions of TWELFTH NIGHT and AS CIRCLE MACHINE (Oracle Theatre); HANSEL YOU LIKE IT for Mill Creek Park’s Summer AND GRETEL (Emerald City Theatre Shakespeare series in Ohio and a one- Company); MNEMONIC (Red Tape Theatre); woman adaptation of THE RAPE OF DESSA ROSE (Bailiwick Chicago); GODSPELL LUCRECE for Youngstown State University. (Brown Paper Box Company); THE LIGHT IN THE PIAZZA (Theo Ubique); JOSEPH AND Simone Zebot (Sister THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT Laurence*/Gregory/ (Paramount Theatre); MEET JOHN DOE Chorus) is thrilled to be (); THE TWO making their Red GENTLEMEN OF VERONA (Muse of Fire Theater and Oracle Theatre Company); MUCH ADO (First Folio debut and taking part Shakespeare Theatre); THE SUICASE OPERA in public access theatre. PROJECT (Chicago Opera Vanguard). He They’ve been pursuing their passions of has been in films such asBlock Four (writer/ ASL interpretation and theatre at Columbia narrator), Julian Hayda (dir). He graduated College Chicago for the past three years. Roosevelt University, BFA Music Theatre; The Simone and their right hand were seen as Second City Training Center: Improvisation, Audrey II in LITTLE SHOP in ASL directed by Writing. His upcoming production is THE Crom Saunders, and will be involved as a DUCHESS OF MALFI (). student interpreter in upcoming Columbia theatre department productions.They are C. Richard Costes eternally grateful for their mentors at (Abram*/Chorus) is Columbia, the Chicago Deaf Community, proud to be working on and the theatrical interpreters who have a production with Red supported them. Thank you Aaron and the Theater Chicago that so cast and crew for your intense dedication. closely mirrors his own experiences - thankfully

R+J: The Vineyard 7 PRODUCTION TEAM

Red Theater Artistic Director...... Aaron Sawyer+ Red Theater Managing Director...... Janette Bauer+ Producer...... Janette Bauer+ Director...... Aaron Sawyer+ Sign Master...... Crom Saunders^ Sign Coach...... Rob Russo Dramaturg...... Claire Alston Stage Manager...... Mary Kate Ashe Director of Corporate Sponsorship...... Brenda Scott Wlazlo Scenic Designer...... John Wilson Costume Designer...... Amber Kessler Freer Lighting Designer...... Janette Bauer+ Sound Designer...... Patrick O’Brien Projections Designer...... Will Cotter+ Properties Designer...... Scott Dickens Resident Graphic Design...... Jenifer Dorman Fight Collaborator...... Dwight Sora Fight Collaborator...... Tyler Meredith Fight Collaborator...... Jeff Kurysz Fight Collaborator...... Vahishta Vafadari Rehearsal Interpreter...... Rob Russo Rehearsal Interpreter...... Daniella Doll Volunteer Interpreter...... Isaac Riddle

The 7Seven: A Translation Consultant Team Buddy Rivara^ Chris Lopez^ Christopher Schroeder^ Brendan Connelly^ Juan Bernal^ Michael Stark^ Cizzy Boga^

Oracle Productions Producer...... Tony Santiago* Director of Programming...... David Boren* Managing Director...... Jeremy Clark* Executive Director...... Brad Jayhan-Little* Executive Producer...... Ben Fuchsen*

* Denotes Oracle Company Member +Denotes a Red Theater Chicago Company Member ^Denotes a Deaf or Hard of Hearing Team Member

8 Oracle Productions & Red Theater PRODUCTION TEAM BIOGRAPHIES

Aaron Sawyer (Director and Co-Adapter) JOURNEY OF NO. 6330. Salamat sa inyong is the Founder and Artistic Director of Red lahat. Nothing but love. Theater, developing collectives in Lincoln, Omaha, Chicago, and Purchase, NY, As Janette Bauer (Producer and Co- a playwright and stage director, recent Adapter) is the Managing Director for credits include RED HAMLET and THREE Red Theater Chicago. Along with being SOLDIERS (FOR SISTERS). As a filmmaker, managing director I have producing and Aaron is proud of his documentary Act Like production management responsibilities Nobody’s In Trouble and a short film starring on most Red Theater productions. Janette Emmy-winner Michael Badalucco: Broken is also a stage manager and designer, Circle. Thank you to everyone helping over recent credits include production stage the past two years developing R+J: THE managing with Red Tape on A WALK VINEYARD. Aaron is an avid Arsenal FC ACROSS AMERICA FOR MOTHER EARTH, fan who resides in Chicago with his son, and lighting and scenic designing for spouse, and pug. RTC’s THREE SOLDIERS (FOR SISTERS). Janette is so excited to finally see this show Amber Kessler Freer (Costume Designer) on it’s feet after two years of planning, is a costume designer based out of Oak communicating, and growing. With all Park, Illinois. She made her Chicago the hat she wears she is the thankful to debut as a costume designer with New the boyfriend for being by her side in this Millennium Theatre Company’s THE crazy, but amazing life. PRINCESS PEACH CONSPIRACY in 2014. She worked with Red Theater Chicago John Wilson (Scenic Designer) is happy on their rendition of Anton Chekhov’s to be working with Red Theater Company THE WEDDING. She has also worked and Oracle for the first time. He had with American Demigods, Gorilla Tango, designed ninety seven shows in Chicago Collaboraction, and Compass Creative since moving here in 2001. Upcoming Dramatics. She caught the theatre bug designs include THE 4TH GRADERS PRESENT while working at the Huntington University AN UNNAMES LOVE-SUICIDE (Hypocrites) Theatre Company costume shop in THE FINAL SKETCHBOOK (Collaboraction) Huntington, Indiana, but has always loved and BYHALIA, MISSISSIPPI (New Colony & making costumes and playing dress up. Definition). He is a company member with Because, you know, every day is a chance Collaboraction, and an artistic associate to play dress up. with WildClaw. He wishes to thank this wonderful company, the cast, crew, Aaron, Claire Alston (Dramaturg) is thrilled to and Heather for all their wonderful ideas commemorate her first year in Chicago by and support. Please check out his website opening R&J! She has studied theatre and southerndrawn.com. arts ethnography at Catawba College and Payap University respectively. Her passion Mary Kate Ashe (Stage Manager) is a for Shakespeare, particularly in translation, senior Deaf Studies major at Columbia has gotten her into many animated College Chicago. She would like to thank arguments in multiple countries. Her the cast and production team for building dramaturgical credits include AS YOU LIKE such a unique and enjoyable project as IT, THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE, MEASURE well as Peter Wujcik, Crom Saunders and FOR MEASURE/HAKBANG SA HAKBANG, Peter Cook for all of the extra ASL help and the world premiere of THE LAST they’ve given us throughout the process.

R+J: The Vineyard 9 PRODUCTION TEAM BIOGRAPHIES c o n t.

Patrick O’Brien (Sound Designer) is a as Chicago and Los Angeles, where he multidisciplinary theater artist and writer. studied theater and integrated media at Selected sound designs: DEATHTRAP the California Institute of the Arts. Over (Citadel Theatre Company); DOG SEES the past two years, Will worked extensively GOD, LOVE KILLS (Pipe Dreams Studio with actor James Franco, playing the Theater). Technical experience: SENSE AND titular role in his multimedia narrative SENSIBILITY (Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Paradise and co-developing MOONY’S KID internship); THE NUTCRACKER (House at the Edgemar Center in Santa Monica. Theatre of Chicago); THE WILD PARTY, Other performance credits include Robert CARRIE (Bailiwick Chicago). BA Theatre Brustein’s HAMLET (Hamlet) and Lars Arts, Minor in Music, Millikin University ‘14. Jan’s THE INSTITUTE OF MEMORY. Sound/ He also contributes to the Broadway World Projection design work includes American Chicago and Chicagoland Musical Theatre Theater Company’s THE PROJECT(S), websites. His portfolio and other goodies: First Floor Theater’s KAFKAPALOOZA pjobsound.wix.com/patrickobrien. and ANIMALS COMMIT SUICICDE (forthcoming). William-cotter.com. Rob Russo (Rehearsal Interpreter) has been involved in theatre in Chicago for Daniella Doll (Rehearsal Interpreter) over 30 years. Favorite roles have been works as a community interpreter in Madame Arcati (BLITHE SPIRIT), Vito (PS- various settings in Chicago and the greater YOUR CAT IS DEAD), and Phillip (THE LION Chicagoland area. This has been her first IN WINTER). He has been involved with opportunity to work with Red Theater and the Deaf for about as long, and has been Oracle Productions. She has immensely interpreting off and on for a cumulative enjoyed working with such a talented, number of 10 years. He has interpreted diverse, and collaborative cast and professional theatre, and loves bringing crew. Daniella holds a BA in ASL/English his two passions together in providing Interpretation and a BFA in fine art from accessibility in the theatre world. This Columbia College, Chicago. project is a really special challenge regarding interpreting and advising... Isaac Riddle (Volunteer Interpreter) and he is grateful for the opportunity to Saint Paul College interpreting program continue learning. Love and Light to all! graduate. Originally from San Diego. Equity actor for over 17 years. Worked at Scott Dickens (Properties Designer) Starlight Music Theatre, Moonlight Musical is excited to be working with Red Theatre, North Coast Rep, San Diego Rep, Theatre Chicago for the second time. Utah Opera, Utah Shakespearean Festival, He has worked as a Props Designer on Oregon Cabaret Theatre and much more. productions such as ALL’S WELL THAT Thoroughly enjoyed working with this cast ENDS WELL (Stage Left Theatre), THE and director. First time I fully understood IMPOSSIBLE ADVENTURES OF SUPERNOVA the beauty of Shakespeare because of JONES (Forget Me Not Theatre Company), American Sign Language. Had a blast. and THREE SOLDIERS (FOR SISTERS) (Red Break Legs!!! Theatre Chicago). He holds an MFA in Interdisciplinary Arts and Media from Dwight Sora (Fight Collaborator) has Columbia College Chicago. been studying the Japanese martial art of aikido for 20 years, having started as Will Cotter (Projections Designer) an exchange student to Tokyo in 1993. likes to make weirdo art in cities such He continued his training with the

10 Oracle Productions & Red Theater PRODUCTION TEAM BIOGRAPHIES c o n t.

University of Chicago Aikido Club, the Year Chekhov); and readings with Chicago Chicago Aikikai and currently manages the Dramatists and Steppenwolf Theatre Chicago Aikido Club in Uptown. He holds Company. Tyler is a graduate of Interlochen a rank of sandan (third-degree black belt) Arts Academy, The School at Steppenwolf, awarded under Shihan (master instructor) and holds a BFA from the University of Mitsugi Saotome. Dwight has also fought Illinois-Chicago. She is proudly represented onstage with Lyric Opera Chicago (ROMEO by Paonessa Talent. ET JULIET), Theatre-Hikes (TREASURE ISLAND, THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE Vahishta Vafadari (Fight Collaborator) WARDROBE), Lifeline Theatre (THE THREE is very excited to be coming up with ways MUSKETEERS) and New Millennium (THE for people to pretend to hurt each other, BIG, THE TROUBLE AND THE LITTLE CHINA). in this production! Vahishta recently Best love to his wife Czerina and son Jack. graduated with an MFA in Acting from the Theatre School at DePaul University and Tyler Meredith (Fight Collaborator) just spent the summer playing Julia in is thrilled to be working with Red THE TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA at Oak Theatre Chicago for the first time. Other Park Festival Theatre. As a proud member Chicago credits include: THE TEMPEST, A of the SAFD, Vahishta is an Advanced MIDSUMMER’S NIGHT DREAM (Chicago Actor Combatant with certifications in Shakespeare Theater); GOLDFISH (Route rapier and dagger, hand to hand, small 66 Theatre Company); ROMEO AND JULIET sword, quarterstaff, knife, and broadsword. (Teatro Vista); CELEBRATION (A Red Orchid Vahishta is represented by Gray Talent. Theatre); LETTERS HOME (Griffin Theatre Company);IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: THE Red Theater Chicago’s resident graphic RADIO PLAY (American Theatre Company); designer is Jenifer Dorman TWELFTH NIGHT, TOP GIRLS (The Arc jendorman.com Theatre) TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA (Muse of Fire Theatre Company); KING Oracle’s Resident Photographer is Joe JOHN (Backroom Shakespeare Project); Mazza, brave lux - bravelux.com THE CHERRY ORCHARD, THE SEAGULL (One

SPECIAL THANKS

Phillip Max Lewis Joan and David Pritchard Kevin Michael Christy Kara Yokley Adam Richter Sandra Aponte Christopher Dravus Rebecca Dill Bobby Bonaventura Trudy Meltzer Shannon Cameron Rachel Arfa Gary Dop Evan Hatfield Peter Ruklic Monty Cole Stephen Fedo Havalah Grace DawnSignPress Liz Tannebaum Kim Jayhan Elizabeth Thompson

R+J: The Vineyard 11 ABOUT RED THEATER

“Red” is rebellious theater. Our mission is to ask dangerous questions theatrically. We began in 2008 with the banishment from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for performing controversial works opposing the university’s administration. Our defiant energy has sprouted four collectives: Lincoln, Omaha, Chicago, and Purchase, NY.

ABOUT ORACLE B*SIDES

When Oracle co-produces with other companies, they are dedicated to giving artists the opportunity to produce their work in Public Access Theatre. Groups of artists submit project proposals for consideration. Once accepted, Oracle provides space, production and fundraising mentorship, and technical resources at no cost to the visiting artists – on one condition: the piece is offered to the community for free through Public Access Theatre.More free art by more artists for more people.

ORACLE IS CURRENTLY RECRUITING BOARD MEMBERS!

WHAT DOES IT TAKE? A person who recognizes the transformative power of live performing arts. Someone who is inter- ested in using their skills and relationships to grow Public Access Theatre.

WHAT WOULD BE EXPECTED OF ME? 12 meetings a year, Being a constant champion of Public Access Theatre, & $750 Annual Give or Get

HOW DO I GET IN TOUCH? Send an email to our Executive Director Brad [email protected]

12 Oracle Productions & Red Theater THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS FREE THEATRE

It takes many people to provide cultural experiences with no cost of admission. It also requires money. We want you to JOIN US in keeping access to Oracle free for everyone.

In 2014, we spent $12.71 per seat

Where did our money come from in 2014?

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R+J: The Vineyard 13 SEASON 5 SPONSORS

THE FORTY 4 - CURRENT MONTHLY SPONSORS

Aaron Sawyer Edward A. Warro Karen Barker Adam Clark Edward J Myers Kari Tucker-Boyer Adam Richter Elaine Bell Karl Camillucci Aimee Bass Elizabeth Krecker Kat Ochsner Al & Libby Pier Ellen Dodge Keith Olson Alan Scott Eric Van Tassell Kerri Van Auken Allison Goetzman Erin King Kerstin Broockmann Amy Hopkins Gail Myers Jaffe Kim Jayhan Phil Pique Andrew Farnon Hale Ekinci Kristen Langmeier Andrew Rathgeber Heather Copeland Laura Smith Andy Manos Hope Asya-Broughton Lauren White Annette Gippe Hope Woodworth lily emerson Ann Sonneville Howard Cort Lisa Disch Arthur Mathews Jackie Nelson Maria Poulos Ashton Lazarus Jaime Dunphy Marie Was barbara kay schmitt James Blackburn Mark Rathgeber Benjamin Fuchsen James Huffman Marla Boren Beth Kerr Jan Rodolfo Martin Green Blanche Montesi Jason Fassl Mary bowman Bob Mason Jason Truax Mary Fouche Brad Jayhan-Little Jefferson White Mary Watson Brett Meslar Jefferson White Matt Teaman Brianne Bolin Jeffrey Neil Matthew Brumlow Brit Schulte Jennifer Petersen Matthew Foss Cannon Jonas Jeremy Clark Max Truax Carinn Ake Jim Abec Melinda Erickson Carol and Ben Bibat Jim Swanson Michael Connelly Charles Golbert Jim and Bev Polt Michael Kunnari Chris Neil Joan Pritchard Michele Porter Christopher Kidder-Mostrom Joanne Baker Michelle Grube CJ Dillon Joanne Branson nancy staiger Clint Collins Joe and Delia Jobst Nancy Reynolds Courtney Anderson Joel Whitehead Nathan Robbel Damon Jones John Costa Nick Obis Daniel Caffrey JOHN SIEBKEN Nora Brathol Danny Pancratz John Szymanski Norm Sloan Darien Hallagan Johnard Washington Olga Masevich Dave Toropov Jolene Riordan Omer Bozok David Boren Jonathan Belgard Patrick Martin David Farwell Jordana Fraider Perry Greene David Meldman Jorge Bolanos Rachel Miller David Richardson Joseph W Basilo Raff Donelson DAVID WIMSATT Joyce Brody Rich Mayer David & Katie Fehr Judy Smith richard Nielsen DeChantel Kosmatka Julie Symon Rick Foresee Dominique Lewis June & Ray Pritchard Robert Bailey Drew McCubbin Kara Yokley Robert Jakofsky

14 Oracle Productions & Red Theater THE FORTY 4 - CURRENT MONTHLY SPONSORS c o n t.

Robert Lebovitz Scott Case Thomas Wynne Robin Bousel Scott Clodfelter Tracy Otwell Robin Lestina-Cikanek Sean Graney Travis Delgaeo Rod and Del Clark Shirley Keenan Vieve Pritchard Rom Barkhordar Siobhan McKissic vijaya ramaswamy Rory Jobst Spenser Davis Wendy Schmidt Ruth Johnston Stephanie Polt Wilhelm Peters Ryan Heywood Steve Sewall Will Liverman Sabrina Conti Stevie Lambert William Duvall Sam Allyn Susan Lincoln William Sandberg Sam Benediktson Heather Susan Wingerter Zach Livingston Kinion Tara Branham Zachary Baker-Salmon Sara Todd Teresa Melzer Zbigniew Malecki Sarah Ballema terri falvey Sarah Mahowald Thomas Fuchsen

Don’t see your name? If you joined The Forty 4 after October 2nd, 2015, we were already off to print, but you’re on our website and will be in our future programs. Otherwise, please check with our box office, as we may need further information from you.

INDIVIDUAL AND CORPORATE DONORS

Individual Sponsors Linda Blumenshine Corporate and Foundation Alyssa Dickman Lisa and Arnie Schoenthaler Sponsors Aileen McGroddy Lisa Disch Ronald A. Greene Memorial Anna Marie Crovetti LuAnn Galvin Fund (CCT) Arnold Schoenthaler Lynnae Stoehr Michael and Mona Heath Fund Brad Jayhan-Little Mable Franzoni (CCT) Carol and Greg Millar Martina Beverly Charles Golbert Phil Pique Christine Cupp Mary Beth Sova Christine Obrien Megan Gotz Christopher Neil Michael Conti Clare Parker Michael and Mona Heath Cynthia Stengel Mike Nussbaum Darien Hallagan Milton Esbitt David Landis Patricia Acerra Eloy Burciaga Peter M Handler Frank Scommegna Phil Hodges Gary Belkin R.M. Carlson Gary Blumenshine Randy and Barbara Thomas Heidi Keller Rollie Batten Henry Beverly Sarah Vanderwicken Hillary Peck Sean Ewert James Bachman Shar Afshar James Fanuzzi Sharon and Richard Carlson Joan Truax Staver Law Group PC John M Truax Steven Parker John Wacker Susan Bachman Julie Brudlos-Nussbaum Susan Stevens Kathleen Walsh Suz & Haven Boysen Kerry Peck Trudy Meltzer Kim Jayhan Leah Levinger

R+J: The Vineyard 15 ORACLE COMPANY MEMBERS

We make art. We make it free. You make it yours. Oracle believes you can’t live without art, so we are devoted to making sure everyone everywhere has access to the arts. By offering our art to the community for free, we foster creativity and bolster people’s aspirations. We collaborate with other organizations to engage them in this mission. We are committed to spreading a love for art worldwide – and we want you to join us in our cause. Oracle is art for all.

Company Members Brad Jayhan-Little, Executive Director, Founding Member Ben Fuchsen, Executive Producer, All Programs Max Truax, Artistic Director Jeremy Clark, Managing Director David Boren, Director of Programming Stephanie Polt, Communications Manager Amy Hopkins, Box Office Manager Cody Proctor, Audience Services Manager Rory Jobst, Film Producer Tony Santiago, B*Sides Producer Katherine Bartholomew, Company Manager DeChantel Kosmatka, Sponsor Manager Nigel O’Hearn, Director of Development Jaime Dunphy, Public Relations Director Laura K. Smith, Company Member Sarah Pretz, Company Member John Arthur Lewis, Company Member James Ogden, Company Member Brian Hurst, Company Member Havalah Grace, Company Member Justin Snyder, Resident Technical Director Allison Goetzman, Company Member Eli Branson, Company Member Jamie Bragg, Company Member Kate Staiger, Company Member Deirdre Connelly, Company Member

Darien Hallagan, Board Member, Board Chair CJ Dillon, Board Member, Vice-Chair Charles Golbert, Board Member, Secretary Joan Pritchard, Resident Costume Designer, Board Member Chris Neil, Board Member, Founding Member Kara Yokley, Board Member Artt Mathews, Board Member

16 Oracle Productions & Red Theater NAME YOUR CHAIR

We are proud to introduce a new membership level of The Forty 4.

Oracle is poised to grow. We need a full-time staff member. Join us in realizing this next step for Public Access Theatre.

Oracle has 44 chairs. We can use those 44 chairs to hire a full-time, paid staffer to accelerate Oracle’s expansion.

$150 per month (or an $1,800 annual commitment) means your name - or a name of your choosing - goes on a chair at Oracle. That’s right! Your chair is a physical reminder to all Public Access Theatre patrons: you are an MVP of accessible art for all.

As an additional Thank You: not only do you have guaranteed reservations, you will be able to make guaranteed reservations on behalf of others. Any show, any night, reserve your chair for a friend or family member plus one guest.

Together, with these 44 chairs, we will hire a full-time staff member, and really make Oracle’s Public Access Theatre explode!

Special Thanks to our current chair holders. They have joined in the goal of hiring a full time person: Joan Pritchard Kim Jayhan Brad Jayhan-Little and DeChantel Kosmatka Kara Yokley

ADVERTISE WITH ORACLE!

Oracle plans to have over 6500 audience members next year! Consider advertising with us. Program advertisements are very accessible to every business.

Size 1 Show 3 Show Full Page $175.00 $500.00 Half Page $125.00 $350.00 Quarter Page $75.00 $200.00

Contact our Managing Director, Jeremy Clark for More information. [email protected] R+J: The Vineyard 17 ORACLE PROJECT HISTORY

^Jeff Recommendation; ~Jeff Nomination; #Jeff Award; *Best Of Year List

Theatre This House Believes the American Dream is at the Expense of the American Negro^ - Summer 2015 - Dir: Zachary Baker-Salmon The America Play^ - Summer 2015 - Dir: Vanessa Stalling The Jungle 2015 - Spring 2015 – Dir: Matt Foss Circle-Machine^~ - Winter 2015 - Dir: Thom Pasculli Romulus - Fall 2014 – Dir: Kasey Foster The Jungle^~~~~~##*** - Summer 2014 - Dir: Matt Foss The President – Spring 2014 - Dir: Max Truax The Mother 2014* - Winter 2014 - Dir: Max Truax The Revenge of Radio Goggles - Holiday 2013 - Dir: Ben Fuchsen, Hannah Friedman, Kristin Davis Waiting for Lefty** - Summer 2013 - Dir: Matt Foss The Mother^~~~~~~~#####*** - Spring 2013 - Dir: Max Truax Accidental Death of an Anarchist - Winter 2013 - Dir: Ben Fuchsen The Return of Radio Goggles - Summer 2012 - Dir: Laura K Smith, Lyndsay Kane, Brendan Balfe The Sandman - Summer 2012 - Dir: Max Truax The Maids - Spring 2012 - Dir: Ben Fuchsen Ironmistress^* - Winter 2012 - Dir: Karen Yates The Original Radio Goggles - Summer 2011 - Dir: Ben Fuchsen, Laura K Smith, Karen Yates Tonight It’s Live! - Spring 2011 - Dir: Tom Bambara, David Boren Woyzeck* - Spring 2011 - Dir: Max Truax Blood Wedding - Fall 2010 - Dir: Ben Fuchsen The Ghost Sonata^~* - Spring 2010 - Dir: Max Truax The Castle - Winter 2010 - Dir: Ben Fuchsen & Justin Warren Disturbed - Fall 2009 - Dir: Ben Fuchsen Zero - Summer 2009 - Dir: Ben Fuchsen Disturbed III - Fall 2008 - Dir: Ben Fuchsen Termen Vox Machina** - Summer 2008 - Dir: Max Truax Disturbed II - Fall 2007 - Dir: Colby Hanik Scotland Road - Spring 2007 - Dir: Ben Fuchsen Show Game Live! - Winter 2006 - Dir: Katie Hawkey Disturbed - Fall 2006 - Dir: Brad Jayhan-Little Actor’s Nightmare & Sister Mary - Summer 2006 - Dir: Aaron Shapiro Tape** - Spring 2006 - Dir: Ben Fuchsen Line - Fall 2005 - Dir: Aaron Shapiro Lakestreet Extensions - Summer 2005 - Dir: Aaron Shapiro

Film Hole In the Wall - Film Short (post-production) - Dir: Jeremy Clark Trupiak - Film Short Released 2012 - Dir: Michal Janicki The Woyzeck Project - Film Short Released 2011 - Dir: Craig Erpelding

Co-Productions R+J: The Vineyard - Red Theater Chicago - Fall 2015 - Dir: Aaron Sawyer Pains of Youth - Odradek Theatre Company - Fall 2013 - Dir: Joshua Altman Pink Milk^~~~~** - White Elephant - Summer 2013 - Dir: Brandon Powers Happiness - Alluvium Group - Fall 2012 - Dir: Tony Santiago 18 Oracle Productions & Red Theater ORACLE PROJECT HISTORY c o n t.

The Rorsky Plays - by Rory Jobst - Summer 2012 - Dir: Stephen Murray & Josh Ellison Freak Show - Harlotry & Necromancy Appreciation Society - Spring 2012 Hamlet - Summer 2011 - Dir: Benno Nelson

NOW PLAYING AT ORACLE

Playing through November 8 at the Storefront Theater | 66 E. Randolph

Take a sneak peek at… PUBLIC ACCESS THEATRE SEASON 6

THE HOUSE OF THE KINDLING THE HAIRY APE BERNARDA ALBA an original musical by Eugene O’Neill by Federico Garcia Lorca written by Nigel O’Hearn directed by Monty Cole adapted by Emily Mann music by Nicholas Tonozzi January 23 - March 14, 2016 directed by Laura K Smith directed by Max Truax June 4 - July 24, 2016 October 15 - December 3, 2016

RED THEATER UPCOMING PRODUCTIONS

YEAR OF THE ROOSTER TASTE by Eric Dufault by Benjamin Brandt directed by Carrie Lee Patterson directed by Aaron Sawyer January 9 - Feb 6, 2016 April 23 - May 22nd, 2016 at Frontier Theatre at Red Twist Theatre

R+J: The Vineyard 19 RED THEATER PRODUCTION HISTORY

^Staged Reading of Red Playwriting Competition Winner

Theater Schweyk in the Second World War - Summer 2012 - Dir: Aaron Sawyer CITY LIGHTS, RECEDING^ – Fall 2012 – Dir: Elly Green RED HAMLET - Winter 2013 - Dir: Aaron Sawyer TENDER ROUGH ROUGH TENDER^- Fall 2013- Dir: J.W. Basilo DYLAN - Fall 2014 - Dir: Aaron Sawyer THREE SOLDIERS (FOR SISTERS) - Fall 2014 - Dir: Aaron Sawyer INSERT HEART HERE^- Winter 2014 – Dir: Matt Hooks

Film Act Like Nobody’s In Trouble -Documentary Feature- Released 2014 - Dir: Aaron Sawyer

THE COMRADE CARD

The Comrade Card is the best way to enable Red Theater to “ask dangerous questions theatrically.” We take a risk with each performance, and we need your support.

- FREE and Repeat Access to All Performances - Complete Scheduling Flexibility with Priority Access - Exclusive Notices on Special Performances & Events

Sign Up: http://redtheater.org/comrades/

20 Oracle Productions & Red Theater