Friends of Niagara University Theatre

For those who love and support theater at Niagara University Fall/Winter 2008

45th NU Theatre Anniversary Reunion Weekend a Hit! By Ann Heuer, ’78 For the nearly 125 NU alumni the cabaret and friends who attended Niagara evening. Relating University Theatre’s 45th Anniver- nostalgic and sary Reunion, Columbus Day weekend humorous this year was all about rediscovering memories, he old friends and hearing about the reconnected with exciting renovations on the horizon his fellow alumni at Niagara University Theatre. with such quips Alumnus Joe Perrotta, ’92, said about as, “How many of the weekend, “it was so wonderful on you were in so many levels, truly like seeing ‘Joseph and the At the reunion’s cocktail and cake reception, all the alumni enjoyed reminiscing family.” Amazing with one another and the theater’s co-founders, faculty and staff. Front row: The three-day reunion was Technicolor Tracey Kent, ’84. Back row, from left, Brother Augustine Towey, C.M.; Maryanne planned and coordinated over the Dreamcoat’ at Kelly, ’84; Dr. Sharon Watkinson; Mary Furlong, the first president of the Friends of Niagara University Theatre; Mary Beth (Drmacich) Romo, ’84; Linda Saffire, past year by co-chairs Maureen T. NU? We did it ’84; and Diane Presutti Cody, ’84. Stevens, associate professor of theater 53 times on and fine arts, and Marilyn Deighton, campus. That’s what paid for all the Theatre. Elizabeth beamed as the assistant professor of theater and fine office furniture and some of Sharon’s audience gave her a standing ovation arts, who were assisted during the outfits!” Schultz also noted, “For for her song from “Hairspray.” The event itself by a crew of theater those of us who started our careers performers were accompanied by NU studies students and by several here, we owe Sharon (Watkinson), adjunct voice professor Elenora Seib theater staff members. The theater Bro (Brother Augustine Towey, and retired NU Theatre musical reunion was part of the university’s C.M.), Tim (Tim Ward) and all the director Donald Shrimpton. The annual Alumni Reunion Weekend, faculty our thanks. And let’s be sure evening was directed by Doug coordinated by the alumni relations to preserve that back wall in the Zschiegner, associate director of staff in the Office of Institutional renovated theater. That wall has cast Niagara University Theatre, who was Advancement. signatures dating from what, 1972? assisted by several theater studies Attendees came from as far away as But I’m not that old!” students. Switzerland and France and from as The cabaret evening spotlighted A beautifully produced “slide close to Monteagle Ridge as Buffalo the talents of Maryanne Kelly, ’84, show” DVD presentation of vintage and Niagara Falls, N.Y. The weekend Alison Nusbaum, ’03, Mary Beth production photos interspersed with began with a high-energy cabaret (Drmacich) Romo, ’84, Patrick brief interviews with NU Theatre co- evening in the Leary Theatre, followed Riviere, ’88, Kim Schwenzer, ’98, founders Brother Augustine Towey, by a welcome back party in “The Michelle Shrimpton-Hidalgo, ’89, C.M, director emeritus, and Dr. Rat” sponsored by The Friends of Natalie Slipko, ’93, Tony Sperry, ’88, Sharon Watkinson, chair of the Niagara University Theatre. Michael Vargovich, ’07, and Zak department of theater and fine arts, NU alumnus Armand “Army” Ward, ’04. Special guest performer was also a highlight of the cabaret Schultz, ’81, was ideally suited for was Elizabeth Ann Clune, a member the role of master of ceremonies for of the Friends of Niagara University See Anniversary, page 3 What’s New at NU: By the editor-in-chief, Gregory Fletcher

First, let me the renovation of the Leary Theatre express how much becomes a reality, it couldn’t be I enjoyed meeting better timing to welcome these so many of you at talented theater artists to our team. our recent alumni reunion weekend. Starting with this season, we have Above: An updated architectural rendering of the What a meaningful celebration of implemented a new box office system. exterior of the Elizabeth Ann Clune Center for Theatre in Clet Hall. Renovation on NU’s theater is Niagara University Theatre and its 45 Tickets may now be purchased directly scheduled to begin in May of 2009. years of theater training. And what from our Web site [www.niagara.edu/ better way to celebrate than to publicly theatre]. From the internal link Below: This new architectural rendering shows the theater’s lobby which will provide easy access to the announce the renovation dates of the PRODUCTION, go to BOX OFFICE renovated theater and offices via a stairway and elevator. Leary Theatre. Construction will begin and organize your tickets for individual May 20 and as soon as the official re- and multi productions. Not only can opening date is announced, you’ll be you purchase tickets but also you can the first to know. choose your seat locations and print Best wishes to Eric Appleton, who your tickets. No longer are there high has moved onto the next chapter in ticketing fees — most are the nominal his life — Madison, Wis., to be exact. fee of only $1.50. Eric was part of our design/tech faculty Please help me spread the word that since the fall of 2005, teaching set we have lowered our ticket prices across and lighting design, stage-management the board, as well as implemented and fundamentals of production. He new discounts for Friends, alumni, designed the lights for everything seniors, NU faculty and staff, and a productions to your circle of friends, between “Gypsy” (’05) and “Our youth ticket for as little as $7. We even add potential patrons to our mailing Town” (’07) and he designed the sets have a new repeat viewing discount for list and we’ll send them season for everything between “Gypsy” (’05) returning family members of the cast brochures. Finally, join Friends of and “Cabaret” (’08). In August, Eric and crew in a particular production. NU Theatre. We offer a new lower and his partner, Rick, moved to Check your new NU Arts Calendar, priced membership of $25 for Madison where Eric began as assistant which all members of the Friends struggling artists under 30 years of professor of set design at the University have received as a small token of our age. Or you could give of yourself as of Wisconsin at Whitewater. Eric loves thanks for your continued support, Neil Casey gave in December, when being closer to his family as well as the and we look forward to seeing you in he performed the one-man play bike riding that is commonly practiced the audience as often as possible. “This Wonderful Life.” Not only did in that area. Moreover, he loves how I am very touched to hear that so all the ticket sales benefit the new green the area is — not only in color many of you have expressed a desire theater 100 percent but also Neil was but also in ecology. Happily surprised to do more for the department but able to get all the royalties waived. that his car insurance was cut in half, are limited due to the reality of Perhaps we can continue to highlight Eric laughs one beat at a time — his financial times. As much as we are other alumni performing theater trademark laugh that we all know and profoundly grateful to those of you fundraisers once or twice a year? love. Eric, thank you for all that you who donate your hard earned income, Please do not hesitate to contact me have given Niagara University Theatre let me remind the rest of you that there with any ideas or suggestions you — both on and off stage. And P.S., are many ways to give of yourself may have. thanks for the cheese catalog! without dipping into your bank Niagara University Theatre has Please help me welcome Troy account. First, help us keep our name accomplished so much during its Hourie, our new set designer and in the public eye. For all of you with first 45 years for which there is so design/tech faculty member, as well bios in theater playbills across the much to be grateful. May we as Glenn Bernardis, our new adjunct country, please mention that you are continue to prosper, grow and serve design/tech faculty member teaching a proud theater graduate of Niagara in the next 45 years. sound design. As the design/tech University. Mention NU Theatre in program continues to grow and as your Web site, recommend our

2 Friends of Niagara University Theatre Anniversary, cont. evening. The reunion itinerary also included a Saturday matinee of the dramedy “The Cripple of Inishmaan,” a cocktail and cake reception, and a Mass. The reunion’s success is testament to the enduring friendships enjoyed by those who experienced NU’s theater program in its youth. To view Department of theater and fine arts administrative Before the curtain rose on the cabaret evening, these photos from the weekend, visit assistant Brother Martin Schneider, C.M., right, alumni shared memories and laughter. Front row enjoyed catching up with Patrick Riviere, ’88, left, from left: an expectant Michele Marie Roberts www.niagara.edu/theatre and follow Steve Hasley, ’87, second from left, and Tony Sperry, (Benzin)’99, and Mindy Ferraraccio,‘98. Back row the link to “NU Family” and the ’88, third from left. from left: Karen Colville, ‘98, Kimberly “Alumni” page. Schwenzer,’98, Andrea (Campagna) Mango, ’98, and Cindy (Argona) Burnett, ‘98.

Niagara University Theatre Names First Recipient of the Julie Burdick Memorial Scholarship

Dr. Sharon made to Niagara University Theatre theater but also in all of his academic Watkinson, in honor of their daughter. The studies. And, like Julie, Preston is chair of Burdick family has requested that humble, genuine, sincere — hallmarks Niagara one sophomore, junior or senior who is of an authentic human being.” University’s an outstanding theater performance A resident of Alexander, N.Y., department major be chosen by the administrators Cuer has a double major in theater Niagara University theater of theater and and faculty of the theater program to performance and computer studies student Preston Cuer, fine arts, receive the scholarship, which will information sciences. ’09, of Alexander, N.Y., was announced in last for the duration of the student’s Cuer has played roles in “Chicago,” awarded the first Julie Burdick Memorial October that undergraduate years at Niagara “Fiddler on the Roof,” “Company,” Scholarship, established by theater University. Once the student has “Cabaret,” “Night Train to Foggy the Burdick family of East studies senior graduated from NU, new recipients Bottom” and every short play festival Amherst, N.Y., in honor of Preston Cuer for the scholarship will be selected the department has held during the their daughter, alumna Julie Burdick, ‘03. Here, Cuer is is the first and announced. past four years. After participating in congratulated by Dr. Sharon recipient of Any student selected for this honor the department’s study-abroad Watkinson, chair of the the Julie must not only excel on stage and in the program at Schiller International university’s department of Burdick classroom, but also they must model a University in London last summer, theater and fine arts. The Memorial Vincentian-like interest in caring for he volunteered to teach math in a newly established scholarship will be given to a theater Scholarship, and helping others. mountain village of Romania with a performance major who named after “We are delighted to select Preston team of volunteers from his parish, excels on stage and alumna Julie Cuer as our first recipient of the Julie the West Middlebury Baptist academically and who shows Burdick, ’03. Burdick Memorial Scholarship,” Church. With the assistance of extraordinary care and concern for others, including Burdick noted Dr. Watkinson. “When we translators, Cuer and four other math the less fortunate. passed away thought about how extraordinary instructors spent two weeks teaching unexpectedly Julie Burdick was as a ‘triple threat’ students who “are normally ignored on Jan. 27, 2007, and her parents, performer, as a student who loved to in schools due to ethnic differences.” Dr. James Burdick and Mrs. Sharon learn, and as an extraordinarily He noted that the mission experience Burdick of East Amherst, N.Y., generous and caring human being, was a “wonderful opportunity” that he established the scholarship as a result we thought of Preston Cuer. Very would gladly volunteer for again. of thousands of dollars of contributions simply, Preston excels not only in

Friends of Niagara University Theatre 3 Neil A. Casey Plays 32 Roles in Holiday Classic at Leary Theatre By Ann Heuer, ’78 Out of his mind. That’s exactly “I’d never done a one-man show what NU Theatre alumnus Neil A. before,” Casey said, “and when Spiro Casey, ’91, thought he would be if called me to ask if I’d be interested, I he turned down the opportunity to thought I’d be crazy not to do it.” To play every man, woman and child in prepare, Neil had to memorize a 60- “This Wonderful Life” at Boston’s page script and he watched the movie Lyric Stage Company last December. about 200 times so he could get The production is playwright Steve every scene, voice and mannerism Murray’s faithful retelling of the exactly right. “Jack Neary and I beloved Frank Capra film, “It’s A agreed we needed to re-create the Wonderful Life” (1946). For Casey, movie as closely as we could,” Neil the chance to play George Bailey explained. “If a character was looking (portrayed in the film by Jimmy in a certain direction in the film, Stewart), Mary Hatch Bailey (Donna we’d stage it the same way. We knew Reed), Old Man Potter (Lionel people would notice if the scene Barrymore) and the 29 other characters looked completely different.” from the classic movie — plus a A native of Waltham, Mass., Casey years, she was unable to attend a narrator — was irresistible. To top it started his college career at Framing- number of his performances, including off, the Boston critics and audiences ham State. A year later he transferred “A Glass Menagerie” during his loved him. to Niagara University’s theater senior year of high school. However, This December, Niagara University department at the recommendation his Dad and one of his brothers came Theatre audiences had the opportunity of a friend, NU alumnus Patrick to see that production on opening to experience this holiday treat since Riviere, ’88, whom Casey had night. No words were exchanged about Casey graciously offered to perform worked with while doing summer the show during the drive home, but “This Wonderful Life” as a fundraiser stock in Maine. From his sophomore the first thing Casey’s Dad exuberantly for a new theater on campus on Dec. through senior year, Casey was cast exclaimed to his wife as he and his 8 and 9. “It’s my way of giving back in 18 productions at NU Theatre. sons walked through the door was, and getting to see everybody at NU,” His time at NU, he said, was “He’s gifted!” Two simple, life-altering Casey recently said during a phone transforming. “I learned discipline words. At that moment, Casey knew interview. and technique from Brother he had his parents’ blessing, and it “This Wonderful Life” is a slightly Augustine Towey, C.M., Tim Ward, made all the difference. Sadly, though, abbreviated retelling of “It’s a Renee Baillargeon, Steve Vaughan, his Mom passed away shortly after Wonderful Life” which playwright Miss Bev (Beverly Fletcher), Mildred his high school graduation, but her Murray describes as “a beautifully Paella and all the faculty and adjuncts,” love, courage and wonderful sense of written movie that goes to dark he said, adding, “I could always sort humor still inspire him, his Dad and places and earns its happy ending.” of do it — but I learned how to act at his brothers and sister. When The Lyric Stage Co. decided to NU, and learned about myself and Following his graduation from present “This Wonderful Life,” how to be an adult.” NU’s theater department in 1991, producing artistic director Spiro During high school, Casey wasn’t Casey spent five years in New York Veloudos thought of casting Neil A. “a sports guy or a bookworm” but he City and then he returned to Boston Casey and no one else. Directed by knew “how to get a laugh” and he to work with the Reagle Players and Jack Neary, last year’s New England enjoyed the theater. His parents the Publick Theatre. He later honed premiere of “This Wonderful Life” taught him, though, that in order to his comedic timing as a company was critically acclaimed by The pursue a career in theater, a person member of “Shear Madness” in Boston Globe, the Boston Herald, needed to be “gifted.” Since his Mom Washington, D.C., Boston, and and Boston’s NPR news radio was battling cancer throughout Pittsburgh — a production he has station, WBUR 90.9 FM. Casey’s grade school and high school now been involved in for eight years.

4 Friends of Niagara University Theatre He has also worked in numerous Save the Date for other productions throughout the northeast, from “Take Me Out” to Gala 2009 “Love’s Labour’s Lost,” “Enchanted April” to his current role in “The The 24th annual Friends of Niagara Mystery of Irma Vep” at Boston’s University Theatre Gala will be held Lyric Stage Co. from Nov. 28 – Dec. on Saturday, April 25, 2009. This 21, 2008. business-casual event begins with a 4 Throughout his career, he has p.m. matinee of Kurt Weill’s and devoted over four years to teaching Bertolt Brecht’s musical, “The acting classes at the University of Threepenny Opera,” at the Leary Massachusetts at Boston, which he Theatre on NU’s campus. Guests will hopes to do again next spring. He then proceed to the Castellani Art The co-chairs of the 24th Annual Friends of Niagara Museum on campus for a cocktail University Theatre Gala include Patricia Orzetti, also taught acting as an interim left, Barbara Traver, third from left, and Arthur professor at Niagara University hour, silent auction, elegant dinner, Traver, back row. Co-chairs of the gala’s live and Theatre during academic year 2006- live auction and a visit from the cast silent auction include Pamela LeCuyer, second from 2007. “I love teaching,” Casey said, and crew of the musical. Auction left, Lori Presti, right, and Adair Saviola, who was “it’s a great feeling to impart items include travel packages, unavailable for the photo. knowledge to students and you can paintings, entertainment and sports see the light bulb go off when they’ve memorabilia, gift baskets, gift certificates and more. got it — it’s fun.” This year’s gala co-chairs are Patricia Orzetti and Arthur and Barbara Traver, “Acting is just something I have to while auction co-chairs are Pamela LeCuyer, Lori Presti and Adair Saviola. do, I don’t know why,” Casey added. Funds raised benefit the theater program and its students, from needed theater His advice for NU’s theater students equipment and supplies to workshops provided by guest artists. is this: “Keep plugging away, don’t For tickets and information, or to donate gift baskets, certificates, paintings, give up, continue your studies after antiques or collectibles valued at $100 or more, contact gala coordinators Peg you graduate, see as much theater as Lacki at (716) 286-8483 or Ann Heuer at (716) 286-8480. you can, talk to people in the industry, and don’t burn bridges.” Having talent and a superb work ethic has enabled Casey to soar in a competitive industry, but so, too, has his warm Irish Catholic upbringing. “Our family is very close and we share a wacky sense of humor,” he said. “We understand that life is short and we believe in the golden rule: ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.’” No wonder Casey is perfect in “This Wonderful Life.” He knows what matters most.

Lost and Found at Leary Theatre Jonathan Klatt, ’08, who played the Master of Ceremonies in “Cabaret,” congratulates his friend Elizabeth Did you lose a ring at the Leary Ann Clune at the Friends of Niagara University Theatre Gala in April. Miss Clune and her parents, Robert Theatre over the past year or two? and JoAnn Clune, are longtime supporters and fans of Niagara University Theatre. Pictured here behind If so, please contact Peg Lacki at Klatt and Clune are preliminary architectural drawings of the Elizabeth Ann Clune Center for Theatre which will encompass the Leary Theatre, lobby, box office, theater offices, classrooms, costume shop and scenery shop. (716) 286-8483. Thanks!

Friends of Niagara University Theatre 5 Ragusa’s star rising on Broadway Mix of patience, humor lands ‘Frankenstein’ role

By Anne Neville, News Staff Reporter (Copyright 2008 The Buffalo News, from Sept. 24, 2008) Editor’s note: The following is an half, and I had two songs to learn excerpt reprinted with the permission of that I didn’t know.” The Buffalo News. To read the entire With the help of a quick iTunes article, please visit the following website download and her conductor from and type “Ragusa’s star rising on “Kiss Me Kate,” Ragusa prepared for Broadway” in the “search” box at the the audition — which turned out to be top of the homepage: before “oh, about 20 people, with Mel www.buffalonews.com. Brooks in the center seat at the table.” She started with “Deep Love,” the Speaking by phone from her New tune a starry-eyed Elizabeth sings Alumna Michele Ragusa, ’87, in the Broadway role Jersey home, the effervescent Michele after her romantic encounter with she always wanted: Elizabeth Benning in Mel Brooks’ Ragusa said she’s “had my eye on the monster. The song opens with “Young Frankenstein.” Photo courtesy of Paul Kolnik. this role (Elizabeth Benning in the the famous spoken line slyly lisped Mel Brooks Broadway show, “Young by Madeline Kahn in the movie: But even in scaled-down heels, Frankenstein”) right from the “Penny for your thoughts!” Ragusa is loving every minute in the beginning.” But when it was originally “I said the line, and the entire Broadway spotlight, a place she’s cast before the play opened in table started screaming with been shooting for since Holy Angels. November 2007, she heard through laughter,” said Ragusa. “There’s After high school, she enrolled at the Broadway grapevine that the nothing better than that! I kept Erie Community College to study play’s producers wanted a celebrity going and the conductor was playing business, thinking she could never for the role. “I wanted to be seen for the piano and laughing, we finished have “a real life” as an actor. this initially, so badly,” she said. “But and they applauded — it was really, At ECC, she auditioned for a part in believe it or not, after 19 years of really something. I found out later a production of “Godspell,” directed being in this city and working, I that Mel Brooks just flipped out, by English teacher Jack Saviola, with could not get an audition.” ‘Where has she been?’ It was one of the assistance of musical director When she heard that (Megan) those great perfect things.” Needless Jimmy Sapienza. Ragusa now credits Mullally had gotten the role, Ragusa to say, she got the job. both Saviola and Sapienza for recog- said she thought ahead to the day Ragusa had barely become nizing her talent and encouraging her when Mullally might want to leave comfortable in the role when she was to pursue acting as a career. to pursue other interests, “because so sidelined by a freak accident — a Saviola pulled Ragusa aside and many people have said to me, ‘You collision with a coffee table in the recommended she apply to Niagara remind me of Megan Mullally!’” middle of the night left her with a University’s rigorous and highly Ragusa kept working, most broken toe on her right foot. After a respected theater program under the recently in New Jersey’s Paper Mill week of rest, she returned to the direction of Brother Augustine Playhouse production of “Kiss Me stage and has made every show since Towey. Saviola called Towey and Kate.” In the spring, she and her then. recommended his star actor. husband Thomas Richter, who met “There was a change of shoes, When Ragusa met Towey and when they were doing “Guys and obviously,” she said, “and certain stepped into the small campus Dolls” in Dallas, assembled a flier changes of choreography where I had theater, she said, “I just knew this is with photos of Ragusa and some to turn on my right foot. That where I had to be. I thought, ‘I’m updated reviews from that role. Tuesday night, when I returned, I home.’ I think I had three classes left “I think it just happened to land thought, ‘I’m never going to make it to get my (ECC) degree, and I left! I on the casting director’s desk at the through the weekend,’ but I did — I basically went (to Niagara) and got perfect moment,” said Ragusa. But kept icing it, and I’m doing pretty my BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts she still had a few challenges — the good, though I’m still not back in degree) and it was one of the best audition was in “basically a day and a my 3-inch heels.” decisions I ever made!”

6 Friends of Niagara University Theatre courtesy of the Paper Mill Playhouse.

Friends of Niagara Touched by the Spirit of Stella University Theatre Adler or How I Spent My Newsletter

Summer Vacation Editor-in-Chief: By Nicholas Cocchetto, ’09 Gregory Fletcher Director, Niagara University Theatre I hate the sound of my heartbeat. Some people find it comforting. Not me. I hate it because it reminds me that I am going to die. Managing Editor: This past summer at the Stella Adler Studio of Acting, it was confirmed that I Ann Heuer am going to die someday and that the beating of my heart is not just the Secretary, Department of insignificance of my life. I could win countless awards, be a lead on Broadway Theater & Fine Arts or even, by some miracle, become insanely rich. But I’ll still die. I’ll barely be Media Coordinator, Friends of a moment in the history of the universe. This may sound strange or even Niagara University Theatre depressing but let me put it into perspective. As a student, I was enrolled in 10 classes at the Summer Conservatory including scene study, two different Editorial Consultants: movement classes, character study and others. My typical days started at 8 Dr. Sharon Watkinson a.m. and ended around 1 a.m. and were full of classes, memorization, partner Chair, Department of work and script analysis. I seldom had time to do or even think of anything Theater & Fine Arts other than acting. I was constantly trying to keep up with all of the Brother Augustine Towey, C.M. assignments, maneuvering my way around New York City, and excited about Director Emeritus training at the school where Marlon Brando studied his craft. Peg Lacki Before the conservatory, I had no idea how much I thought I was terrible. In Theater Secretary/ my own mind I thought I was just being humble. In reality, I was just trying Box Office Supervisor to squeak safely by without a sound and whenever I felt I did well, I mentally Contributing Writers: gave myself a gold star. I constantly checked myself and my progress with a Nicholas Cocchetto correlating grade on how talented I was. However, this didn’t work very long Ralph F. Donatelli III because all my work was for my own grading system, and the teachers caught Gregory Fletcher that. One day my Shakespeare instructor simply asked me what the line was Ann Heuer my scene partner had right before mine. With a blank face I told her I didn’t Kelly Konecko know. I had never really heard anything he had said in the scene. I was too Anne Neville wrapped up in my own scene to worry about my partner, let alone the playwright. I hadn’t listened. Photographers: Patrick Quagliano, the modern equivalent of Stella Adler and my teacher of Mallory Allen the Adler technique class, demanded that all actors “Turn their work into Preston Cuer service of the work.” He taught that actors shouldn’t be in it for their own Ann Heuer fame and fortune, they should be there to serve the playwright and their fellow Fred Heuer human beings. I was more concerned about playing the character “right.” I was Assistant Vice President for failing to serve others. I learned that great actors don’t “become” someone else, Marketing they simply tap into the humanity that we all share. They can step out of their Carl Modica of Eyes For You own selfish needs and truly see what others need, including what their Selectus, Inc. characters need. In the end, we all want something and do things to get it. Now, I am learning to embrace the human experiences we all share and to push Editing and Design against myself into the courageous unknown where I don’t know where to go, Lisa McMahon where I might fail. Patrick reminded us all that we live too briefly to not be brave. I Associate Director for Publications am human as well as an actor; I must be bold, brash, confused, vulnerable, Please e-mail story ideas to courageous and fearless. I must go where my acting characters ask me to go. Gregory Fletcher at How did I spend my summer vacation? I learned to lift my head up, open [email protected] my body and my heart and be brave though I don’t know what to do. Now I or to Ann Heuer at know my courage comes from victory in the face of fear, not fear being absent [email protected]. altogether, and the sound of my beating heart reminds me that I am alive. And Deadline for submissions for the I am beginning to like this sound. spring/summer issue is March 15, 2009.

Friends of Niagara University Theatre 7 Let’s Get Physical (Theater, That Is) By Kelly Konecko, ’09 For several years the NU theater department has required courses in physical theater and mime as part of the performance curriculum, but has never presented a full-length physical theater production on the NU stage. However, that all changed this September when NU kicked off its 45th season with “Night Train to Foggy Bottom,” a physical theater piece written and directed by NU adjunct professors Robin Patterson Above: As the character of Delaney the sculptor, NU theater studies student Preston Cuer, ’09, seated at right, and Terry Judd. imagines artistic inspiration in his dreams during “Night Train to Foggy Bottom.” Here, his muse, played by As with most physical theater, Rachel Baron, ’10, far right, and his sculpture, left, played by Jessica Bill, ’10, enchant him and his “Night Train to Foggy Bottom” relied subconscious, played by Will Hicks, ’11, seated at left. on nontraditional storytelling methods Below: “Night Train to Foggy Bottom” gave NU theater students the opportunity to hone their physical theater and as opposed to conventional dialogue puppetry skills. In the foreground, Devan Corcoran, ’11 (the sculptor’s mother dressed as an old-fashioned girl), left, to bring its tale to life. Through the interacts with Candace Hall, ’11 (kiddie clay/blue moan art critic). Back row from left, Kurt Erb, ’09 (father), and homogenous mixture of masks, shadow Mary Boatman, ’12 (grandmother), share a dream sequence with Carolyn Wendel, ’09 (geezer clay/green buddy art critic), Maria Nicole Held, ’11 (beastly clay/pink snit art critic), and Jessica Bill, ’10 (sculpture). and hand-held puppets, music and multimedia, audiences were guided on a journey into the subconscious of an artist who searches through his dreams and memories for the source of his artistic inspiration. The play was originally presented in 1990 by Patterson and Judd’s company, Theatre Beyond Words, in collaboration with Coad Canada Puppets, and it has undergone several revisions since. Patterson reflected on the show’s journey: “‘Night Train to Foggy Bottom’ was conceived over dinner with Harro Maskow and Arlyn and Luman Coad in 1988 as a reaction to our mutual frustration with the general North American perception that puppets and physical theater were only for children. So the show was devised as a complex dream, offered a broad and varied opportunity presented in the Leary Theatre and a visual narrative told with surreal for both students and the theater- featured 14 cast members and images and adult humor. The play was going public. The show served as an puppeteers, including Preston Cuer revised and condensed to showcase the outlet for students to put skills as the sculptor. Student design work, work of NU students and to continue learned in the classroom into practice including puppets, was by Kelly the struggle to change the public’s on stage and challenged audiences to Konecko; multimedia was by Jared perception of the art forms.” actively engage in the artistic process. Hoyt; and additional sound editing “Night Train to Foggy Bottom” “Night Train to Foggy Bottom” was was by Steven E. Sitzman.

8 Friends of Niagara University Theatre Kelly Konecko, ’09, studied at the Jim Henson Workshop in New York City A Puppet Journey last summer. Here she poses with one of several versions of the “Sesame Street” By Kelly Konecko, ’09 icon, Grover.

When I was little, I sat for endless worked on characters like Grover, Big Bird and hours in front of my TV, mesmerized the show as Abby Cadabby. It was absolutely by the puppets on “Sesame Street.” the assistant amazing to experience hands on all of Little did I know that 15 years later puppet the laborious work that is involved with that fascination would be far from designer, the maintenance of these icons from extinguished, and I’d be embarking which my childhood. on a career in puppetry. provided me Returning home, I have been After my first few puppet endeavors, with my first experience designing working on puppets nonstop for NU’s I started devising a way to study abroad and making shadow puppets. summer children’s theater production and learn more about puppets. This Then in January, thanks to our “Goldilocks, The True Tales” and this sent me to the University of Hawaii persistent costume technologist fall’s “Night Train to Foggy Bottom.” at Manoa last fall with performance Marilyn Deighton, I got to tour the When asked what I plan to do major Carolyn Wendel as part of its Jim Henson Workshop while on our when I leave NU, I don’t have a very Semester Almost Abroad program. In theater tech trip to New York City and good answer other than, “Something Hawaii, I enrolled in puppetry and pass off my portfolio. This contact with puppets.” It’s hard to know Asian theater classes and both Carolyn resulted in my getting called back for what lies ahead when I could have and I were lucky enough to be cast in an interview and eventually landing a never predicted years ago that I would the world premiere of a new children’s summer internship. I performed be studying in Hawaii or working at theater play called “Kraken Ka: the various tasks at the workshop such as Jim Henson’s. I guess I’m just as Komodo Dragon,” which featured making accessories and performing curious as everyone else as to what’s shadow and mouth puppets. I also repairs on several “Sesame Street” next on my puppet journey.

Goldilocks, The True Tales: A Children’s Summer Delight By Ralph F. Donatelli III, ’09 This summer the Friends of NU The production was performed by After seeing the show, children of Theatre presented the perfect answer N.U.R.T., a group of NU’s theater all ages left the theater with smiles to children’s entertainment needs — studies students who toured across their faces. Many of them were a charming fun twist on the story of children’s stories around the area experiencing theater for the very first “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” Tuesdays through Thursdays and time and were excited about the entitled “Goldilocks, The True Tales.” then performed Terri’s play Fridays opportunity to meet the cast and ask From June 27 until Aug. 10, the through Sundays. for autographs. world premiere of this children’s play The story follows Jimmy as he The cast and crew of “Goldilocks, The True Tales,” was presented at the Church in searches for a finale to the Enchanted left to right, front row: Cait Holland, ’10, JennaBeth Lewiston with five performances Woods Elementary School talent show. Stockman, ’09, and the Goldilocks Puppet and its every weekend. The play was written, He tries to bring together the dancer creator, Kelly Konecko, ’09. Back row from left: Matt directed, and choreographed by Terri Goldilocks and the Bear Necessities, a Kindley, ’10, Ralph F. Donatelli III, ’09, and Nick Filips, associate professor of theater local band made up of the three bears. Lama, ’10. and fine arts, and one of 17 distin- Unfortunately, the bears refuse to work guished professors who were awarded with Goldilocks, who they call a summer research grants from the NU “home-wrecker,” “ruffian,” “burglar,” Research Council. Terri received the and many other names. Jimmy tries to grant to write a children’s play. reconcile their differences by letting It’s not often that a new play gets each side explain what happened on a full-scale production so quickly that infamous day. Needless to say, the after completion; however, with the play delivers a happy ending and a big help of the Friends of NU Theatre, musical finish. the play was swiftly put on its feet.

Friends of Niagara University Theatre 9 A Summer Showcase of Niagara University Talent By Ralph F. Donatelli III, ’09 From July 24 until Aug. 17, for me. Buffalo’s Shakespeare in Delaware Since this was Park put on one of Shakespeare’s an outside lesser-known works, “The Merry production, there Wives of Windsor.” Directed by NU were many Theatre’s artist-in-residence, Steve uncontrollable Vaughan, the comedic play follows variables that Falstaff as he attempts to seduce two factored into every married women, ending with a hilari- show. On top of Theater alumnus Paul ous resolution. the pressure of Todaro, ’87, right The talent of NU actors both past performing and (Ford, a gentleman of Windsor) interacts with and present was most definitely on sharing a small associate director of NU display. Theater alumni Paul Todaro, trailer as a dressing Theatre, Doug ’87 (Ford), Zak Ward, ’04 (Fenton), room and the Zschiegner (Page, a Susan Drozd, ’02 (Mistress Ford), and public porta- gentleman of Windsor) in “The Merry Wives Chrissy McDonald, ’82 (Mistress potties, there of Windsor.” Quickly), all played roles in the were some production. Also, associate director of extremely humid Theater alumnus Paul Todaro, ’87, right (Ford, a gentleman of Windsor), NU Theatre Doug Zschiegner had a nights that led to interacts with associate director of NU Theatre, Doug Zschiegner (Page, a major role in the show as Page, and an exuberant gentleman of Windsor), in “The Merry Wives of Windsor.” theater student William Vaughan, ’10, amount of sweat. played Simple, a charming character Also, out of the 22 unpredictable summer weather really who delighted all audiences. Steve scheduled performances, six were thrilled the audiences. Petersen, a philosophy professor at NU, cancelled due to the rain (including In the end, this summer was a taste also held a major role as Slender. opening night!). Considering that of a professional career in performance Acting alongside these talented per- more than one-fourth of the that truly showcased the talent of formers as Nym, a follower of Falstaff, performances were rained out, the Niagara University. I am truly proud was such a phenomenal experience performances that withstood the to have been a part of this experience that entertained audiences of Western New York.

Theater studies student Ralph F. Donatelli III, ’09, center, enjoyed his role as Nym in “The Merry Wives of Windsor” at Buffalo’s Shakespeare in Delaware Park. Here, he shares a plan with fellow actor Peter D’Angelo (Pisto), while Norman Sham (Sir John Falstaff) listens.

10 Friends of Niagara University Theatre Updates! Editorial Note: In each issue of the in the theater and work in production Buffalo’s MusicalFare Theatre’s Friends of NU Theatre newsletter, we and business aspects of the theater. production of “Mid-Life, The Crisis will feature current news from alumni, Anyone interested in learning more Musical!” this summer. faculty and staff in this column. about the theater can contact Sara at Devan Corcoran, ’11, Joanna [email protected]. Farrell, ’09, Susan Laxton, ’08, Chris Arnau, ’06, wrote “Sharp Derek Campbell, adjunct acting Steven Sitzman, ’10, JennaBeth Enough,” a one-act play that was per- professor, directed “Miss Fozzard Stockman, ’09, and Courtney formed at the Manhattan Repertory Finds Her Feet” and “Nights in the Weather, ’10, were in the cast of Theatre Summerfest in June. He Gardens of Spain” for Buffalo’s Irish “42nd Street” for the Niagara Fine directed Disney’s “Hercules” at Classical Theatre Co. this summer. Arts Program, Inc., in Niagara Falls Camp Taconic in Hinsdale, Mass., For Buffalo’s Shakespeare in Delaware this summer. The production was and was in the National Theatre for Park, he directed “King Lear,” while directed by alumna Maureen Arts and Education national tour for artist-in-residence/stage combat Pusateri, ’00, and choreographed by “Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry.” instructor Steve Vaughan directed Gracie Schupp. Earlier, he was in the cast of the “The Merry Wives of Windsor.” NU Kevin Craig, ’08, has been working Nightmare Haunted House in New Theatre alumni who played roles in with Mill Mountain Theatre of York City. He can be reached at “King Lear” included Joseph Wiens, Roanoke, Va., and the Lake Tahoe [email protected]. ’04, and Paschal Frisina III, ’00. Shakespeare Festival. David Autovino, ’03, played Lord Also, former NU Theatre students Marilyn Deighton, assistant pro- Fancourt Babberly in Buffalo’s Irish Tom Zindle and Adam Rath were in fessor of theater and fine arts, costume Classical Theatre Co.’s “Charley’s the production. Alumni Susan technology and design, attended the Aunt” this spring. Drozd, ’02, Paul Todaro, ’87, and United States Institute for Theater James Becton, ’97, was in a show Zak Ward, ’04, were in the cast of Technology Conference in Houston entitled “Thoroughly Stupid Things” “The Merry Wives of Windsor,” along in March. She was one of 30 in the New York Fringe Festival this with Doug Zschiegner, associate presenters in the Costume Design summer. For more information, visit director of NU Theatre and theater and Technology Commission’s poster www.fringenyc.org. students Will Vaughan, ’09, and session with a presentation on Rebecca Berowski, Ralph F. Donatelli III, ’09. “Adjustable Petticoats.” Her display ’06, of New York City, Brendan Cataldo, ’08, has been included patterns and examples of has made several com- performing at The Roxy Regional petticoats made by NU’s theater mercials, including one Theatre in Clarksville, Tenn., in “All studies students. She distributed a for VH1, and she was Shook Up,” “The Robber handout with instructions on how to recently in “Peter and Bridegroom,” “The Crucible,” and assemble petticoats to the more than Vandy,” a film starring Jason Ritter “A Christmas Carol.” 400 attendees at the session. and Jessie Martin. She was also in Anise Celano, ’12, Kara Connors, Bryan Eckenrode, adjunct music commercials this spring for ’12, Erin Daley, ’11, Joanna Farrell, professor, was named Educator of the myfuturespouse.com and Raymour ’09, Cait Holland, ’10, and Carolyn Year in Chautauqua County for his and Flanigan, as well as the TV Wendel, ’09, were in Opera Sacra’s work with the Chautauqua Regional shows “Gossip Girl” and “Law and production of “Suor Angelica” this Youth Orchestra. Order: Criminal Intent.” She will fall at St. Joseph’s Collegiate Church Paschal Frisina III, ’00, is a drama play a basketball player this fall in of Buffalo. This Puccini opera was instructor at St. Joseph’s Collegiate the film “Winning Season” and directed by Brother Augustine Towey, Institute in Buffalo. He recently recently booked another day on the C.M. Celano and Candice Kogut, played Richie Valens in “Buddy: The soap, “One Life to Live.” Her Web ’08, were recently in Buffalo’s Alt Buddy Holly Story” at Buffalo’s site is www.rebeccaberowski.com. Theatre production of “LIT401: A MusicalFare Theatre and the Sara Caliva, ’06, is director of the School Shooting in One Act.” Bookseller and Cheese Grater in St. Clare Theater in Syracuse, N.Y. Matthew Chavez, ’08, is attending Artpark’s production of “Beauty and She has also started a community Drexel University Law School in the Beast.” He will play George in theater company, the Synergetic Philadelphia for a law degree. “Sunday in the Park with George” at Players, whose members will perform Louis Colaiacovo, ’99, starred in MusicalFare from March 4 – April 5.

Friends of Niagara University Theatre 11 Sarielys Matos,’04, performed in Marc Sacco, ’00, was also in the Buffalo’s Theatre of Youth production musical. Sacco received the prestigious of “If You Give a Pig a Party” this Artie Award from Buffalo’s theater summer. community in June in the category of Brian Mysliwy, ’96, received the “Outstanding Supporting Actor in a prestigious Artie Award from Buffalo’s Musical” for “Altar Boyz.” He will theater community in June in the star in Buffalo’s Kavinoky Theatre category of “Outstanding Actor in a production of the musical revue, “Hot Play” for “Servant of Two Masters.” ’n Cole: A Cole Porter Celebration” Elizabeth Oddy, ’03, is in her from March 6 – April 5. At the College of Arts and Sciences Recognition Day in second year of service with the Peace Derek Roland, ’00, performed in May, Cassie Gorniewicz, ’08, center, was awarded the Players’ Award by NU Theatre administrators and Corps as a senior-level educator, and co-choreographed a show, “Cut to faculty. Here she is congratulated by Dr. Sharon training future teachers in Uganda. the Chase,” which has been nominated Watkinson and Doug Zschiegner. Gorniewicz received A fascinating diary of her experience for a Drama Desk Award in the cate- the annual award for academic excellence, leadership, can be found on her Web site, http:// gory of “unique theatrical experience.” exemplary work ethic inside and outside of the classroom, elizabethoddy.blogspot.com. Derek and his physical theater and Vincentian-like interest in always helping others. In addition, outstanding theater student awards were given Denise Payne, ’99, is in the national company, Parallel Exit, are thrilled to the following seniors, now alumni: Matthew Chavez, tour of “Jersey Boys,” which recently for the exposure and are working on a Charlotte Colby, Kevin Craig, Lindsay DiBartolomeo, played in Toronto from August new tap show, “Time Step.” He Gorniewicz, Candice Kogut, Margaret Lane, Lisa through early October. recently completed a choreography LeCuyer, Emily Pici, Jessica Stahr, Lia Sumerano and Elizabeth Warden. Emily Pici, ’08, worked with the observancy with Randy Skinner on touring dinner theater company City Center Encores’ production of Cassie Gorniewicz, ’08, was in Enchante Cabaret of Bradford, Pa., “No, No, Nannette” starring Sandy Western New York this fall for the this summer and relocated for a new Duncan, Beth Leavel and Rosie role of Nuala in Buffalo’s Irish Classical job in Albany, N.Y., this fall. O’Donnell. He also filmed several Theatre production of “The Caval- Brendan Powers, ’96, directed “Six instructional videos for Dance Teacher caders,” directed by Derek Campbell. Dance Lessons in Six Weeks” and Magazine, available at www.dance Cristen Gregory, adjunct voice performed in “Meet Me in St. Louis” media.com. professor, is now executive director for Flat Rock Playhouse in North David Ryan, ’07, works for the of the Lancaster Opera House in Carolina. He returned to Florida Thin Air Theatre Co. in Cripple Lancaster, N.Y. Repertory Theatre in Fort Myers, Creek, Colo., where he recently Candice Kogut, ’08, directed Fla., in September and will be there performed in a melodrama and “Godspell” for the West Seneca through February performing in “The worked as the understudy and as part Youth Theatre in West Seneca, N.Y. Glass Menagerie,” “Born Yesterday,” of the ensemble for “Oklahoma.” in May. The production was choreo- and “Dancing at Lughnasa.” Lauren Sale, ’06, was recently in graphed by Holly Lowden, ’08. Patrick Riviere, ’88, recently “Cut to the Quick” at The Side Sara Kovacsi, ’06, Nick Lama, ’10, directed “The Wizard of Oz” for KJK Project in Chicago. She also has done and Emily Pici, ’08, appeared in the Productions and gave seminars on musical revue/fundraiser “Broadway applying for theater schools at The Lisa LeCuyer, ’08, and the “Jr. Asparagus” puppet at in the Mist” for Lewiston’s Theatre in New Jersey State Drama Festival. In Dollywood in Tennessee where she played the lead the Mist in June. March, he promoted his poetry books performer in “VeggieTales” Lona Geiser LaChiusa, ’93, at the Buffalo Small Press Book Fair starred in the musical revue “I Love this summer. and in May he performed in the pre- She is now You, You’re Perfect, Now Change” Broadway reading of “The Really Big playing the presented by Buffalo’s Kaleidoscope Pirate Show” in New York City. For role of Theatre Productions this summer at information on his books, visit Martha Canisius College. Cratchit in www.lulu.com/parplaywright. the national Mary Beth Lacki, ’09, spent the Michele Marie Roberts (Benzin), tour of “A summer working as an acting assistant ’99, played the role of the young Christmas to choreographer Gracie Schupp and Judy Garland in Buffalo’s MusicalFare Carol” with the Nebraska alumna Maureen Pusateri, ’00, with Theatre’s springtime production of Niagara Fine Arts Productions in Theatre “Beyond the Rainbow.” NU alumnus Caravan. Niagara Falls, N.Y.

12 Friends of Niagara University Theatre Patrick productions of “Jack and the Wonder- Moyer, ’07, beans” and “Keeping Mr. Lincoln.” was in The Old Lawrence Gregory Smith, adjunct Creamery acting professor, spent the summer per- Theatre forming at the Michigan Shakespeare Co.’s pro- Festival. He played Parolles in “All’s duction of “A Well That Ends Well” and several Christmas Carol” last roles in “Julius Caesar.” This fall, a December in staged reading of his play, “You Can’t Amana, Do This to Me, I’m an American!” was Iowa. presented at the Road Less Traveled Alumni Lia Sumerano, ’08, and Joe Wiens, ‘04, in Patrick is a Theatre in Buffalo in October. Susan Buffalo’s MusicalFare Theatre’s recent production of co-director “Buddy, The Buddy Holly Story.” for Camp Drozd, ’02, was one of the nine Creamery, a theatrical workshop for children aged 7 actors who presented the reading. Charles Wahl, ’08, is working with – 14, for the Old Creamery Theatre Co. in Iowa. Dawn Smith-DeLuca, ’96, and Great Plains Theatre in Abilene, Kan. He and his colleagues teach the students about her husband Scott DeLuca were and Abingdon, Va.’s Barter Theatre. performance techniques, stage production, memorizing, and about “responsibility and sticking blessed with a baby girl, Ainsleigh Courtney Weather, ’10, Steven to commitments.” Lane DeLuca, born on May 5. Sitzman, ’10 and Devan Corcoran, Katie Sorice, ’03, writes for ’11, all worked as singers/dancers at several readings, including “Last Buffalo Rising, a news and entertain- Darien Lake Theme Park and Resort Daughter of Oedipus” with Babes ment guide, and she acted in several in Darien, N.Y., this summer. Sitzman and Blades and “Orestes/West” with productions in the Buffalo Infringe- was the lead male vocalist in the Greasy Joan & Co. ment Festival this summer. She is theme park’s “Rhythmicity” show. Nicholas Santasier, ’04, performed also in a television commercial for Nina Angela Williams, ’12, played recently in Phare Play’s springtime “My Health Counts,” a Western New Jane Marie Vega in the television show, one act plays, a 24-hour project, and York health-care campaign. “Jr. Lab Ratz,” a humorous pilot about “Arcadia.” He is writing a play Jessica Stahr, ’08, is working as an high-achieving high school students. entitled “Notches.” actor with Hampstead Stage in Center The show will air on WCNY-TV 24 Jennifer Schoch, ’04, appears in Barnstead, NH through next June. on Jan. 25, 2009. several videos for Toshiba on Lia Sumerano, ’08, worked this Jessica Young, ’07, dropped by buytv.com. summer with the company “The Lost the Friends of NU Theatre Gala in Michelle Shrimpton-Hidalgo, ’89, Colony” in Roanoke, N.C. She April while home for a vacation was recently nominated for “Teacher returned to Western New York this before returning to her job as an of the Year” for the second year in a fall and was in the musical “Buddy” actress with Disney Magic Cruise row in the Commack School District at Buffalo’s MusicalFare Theatre. Lines. Alumna Cassie Gorniewicz, ’08, of Commack, N.Y. Hidalgo is a sixth- Future plans include a move to New booked a cruise this spring so she could grade math teacher and former York City to further her acting career. see Jessica portray Cinderella. reading language arts teacher who Brother Augustine Towey, C.M., Stacy Zawadzki-Janusz, adjunct also directs theatrical productions for director emeritus, has authored six dance professor, and members of Stacy her school. Many of her students volumes of poetry and now, a Zawadzki’s Performing Arts Center have performed in commercials, on seventh, his complete poems, “The presented a theatrical production, TV, and in community theater, and Poem You Asked For and Other “Follow Your Dreams,” in Amherst, two were chosen for roles in “The Poems” was just published by Arthur N.Y., this summer. The show included Grinch” on Broadway. McAllister Publishers of Harpswell, dance, acrobatics, acting and voice. Kristen Smiley, ’07, spent the Maine. This contains almost the Doug Zschiegner, associate director summer leading performance work- entire body of his previous work, of NU Theatre, directed a reading of shops at the Lexington Children’s plus several new poems. The book “Murder Squared” by Gary Earl Ross Theatre in Lexington, Ky. This fall, may be ordered by e-mailing for Buffalo’s Road Less Traveled she is company manager/actor for a [email protected] and writing Productions in October. The reading tour that includes “Legend of Sleepy “Towey” in the subject line. included alumni Candice Kogut, ’08, Hollow” and “Katerina the Clever.” Instructions will be emailed to those Lisa LeCuyer, ’08, and Zak Ward, ’04, In the spring, she will star in LCT’s who place an order. among other actors.

Friends of Niagara University Theatre 13 In the Spotlight

Left: Kander and Ebb’s hit Broadway musical “Cabaret,” directed by Brother Augustine Towey, C.M., director emeritus, ended the Niagara University Theatre 2007-2008 season. From left, several of Berlin’s pre-World War II Kit Kat Klub entertainers welcome patrons to the cabaret with song, dance and innuendo. From left, Lia Sumerano, ’08, Mary Beth Lacki, ’09, Nicholas Cocchetto, ’09, JennaBeth Stockman, ’09, and Jonathan Klatt, ’08.

Right: The Kander and Ebb song, “Tomorrow Belongs to Me” sung by many of the cast members of “Cabaret” eerily foreshadowed the coming Nazi regime in Germany. Front row from left, Greta Bowers, ’09, and Kurt Erb, ’09. Back row, clockwise from left, NU student Geoffrey Redick, ’11, Sara Ball, ’10, Trevor Hibbard, ‘09, Ross Donatelli, ’11, Jared Hoyt, ’09, Nicholas Gnacinski, ’11, and Nicholas Cocchetto, ’09.

Left: Paige Allison Mingus, ’09 (Angel), left, and Courtney Weather, ’10 (Anna), portrayed daughter and mother in Kander and Ebb’s bittersweet musical, “The Rink,” directed by Brother Augustine Towey, C.M., director emeritus, at the Leary Theatre in November. Composer John Kander, a good friend of the theater program at Niagara, attended the preview of the production. He graciously provided a talk back session for the university’s theater students about working in the entertainment industry.

14 Friends of Niagara University Theatre In the Spotlight

Right: The dramedy “The Cripple of Inishmaan” by Martin McDonagh, was presented at the Church in Lewiston in October. Directed by Gregory Fletcher, director of NU Theatre, the bittersweet tale examines the hopes and dreams of Billy Claven when Hollywood comes calling in 1934. From left, Mallory Allen, ’09 (Eileen Osbourne), Mary Beth Lacki, ’09 (Kate Osbourne), Justin Krall, ’11 (Dr. McSharry) and Dino Petrera, ’12 (Cripple Billy Claven).

Left: There was plenty of comic relief in “The Cripple of Inishmaan” to lighten its darker moments. Here, Justin Krall, ’11, as Dr. McSharry, prescribes abstinence to whiskey-loving Mammy O’Dougal, played by Emily Clare Boudreau, ’09.

Right: Set in an aging roller rink that’s about to be demolished in 1977, Kander and Ebb’s musical, “The Rink,” featured lively song, dance and roller skating with flashbacks dating back to 1945. Here, several cast members perform a skating number filled with high energy twists and turns. From left, Geoffrey Redick, ’11 (Wrecker Lucky), Joseph N. Liolos, ’11 (Wrecker Buddy), Nicholas Lama, ’10 (Wrecker Ben), Ross Donatelli, ’11 (Wrecker Tony), Steven E. Sitzman, ’10 (Wrecker Lino), and Nicholas Cocchetto, ’09 (Wrecker Guy).

Friends of Niagara University Theatre 15 Left: In May, Noelle Wright, ’09, right, was awarded the Tara Laurie Memorial Scholarship, open to NU’s theater studies students who participate in the university’s study-abroad program at Schiller International University in London. Noelle, who has a double major in theater studies and English, enjoyed her study-abroad courses this summer as well as the chance to see such beautiful landmarks as Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh, Scotland, pictured here. Noelle poses with her friend and fellow NU theater studies student Emily Clare Boudreau, ’09. The Laurie family established the Tara Laurie Memorial Scholarship in 2005 in memory of their daughter, Tara, a theater studies/hospitality student who passed away unexpectedly in 2004, several months after participating in the study-abroad program. The Laurie family said, “‘The Tara Laurie Memorial Scholarship’ is our way of keeping our daughter’s song alive and her spirit of joy and love soaring.”

Right: NU theater studies students who participate in the department’s study-abroad program at Schiller International University in London have the golden opportunity to enjoy a variety of theatrical productions and to sightsee. Pictured here at Mary Arden’s farm in Stratford-Upon- Avon are a group of theater studies students and a nonmajor who participated in last summer’s program. From left: Noelle Wright, ’09, Kurt Erb, ’09, Mallory Allen, ’09, Amber Dawn Hohman, ’09, Jared Hoyt, ’09, Emily Clare Boudreau, ’09, psychology major Rachel Ward, ’10, and Greta Bowers, ’09.

Niagara University Theater Department Nonprofit Org. U.S. POSTAGE PAID P.O. Box 1913 Niagara University, Niagara University, NY 14109 NY 14109 of Niagara PERMIT NO. 1 University Theatre