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Home , Alberta Hunter, Albertina Walker, An Octoroon, AUDELCO, Carole Shorenstein Hays, Daryl Roth

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe

Nate Jacobs Founder & Artistic Director PRESENTS

Book and Lyrics by Music by

C ostume Designer Production Manager Set Designer Patricia Vandenberg James “Jay” Dodge II Michael Newton-Brown Assistant Costume Production Stage Manager Properties Designer Designer Juanita Munford* Annette Breazeale Adrienne Pitts Assistant Stage Manager Lighting Designer Wig Designer Ariel Blue* Michael Pasquini Travis McCue

Music Director Nikki Ervin Director and Choreographer Jim Weaver† January 8–February 16, 2020

Caroline, or Change is presented through special arrangement with †The Director is a member of Music Theatre International (MTI). * Member of Actors’ Equity the STAGE DIRECTORS AND All authorized performance Association (AEA), the Union of CHOREOGRAPHERS SOCIETY, a materials are also supplied by MTI. Professional Actors and Stage national theatrical labor union. www.MTIShows.com Managers in the .

P aid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax Revenues. This project is sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Council of Arts and Culture, and the State of Florida. cast

(in order of appearance) Caroline Thibodeaux...... Jannie Jones* The Washing Machine...... Vallea E. Woodbury The Radio...... Toddra Brunson, Annaya Osborn, Stephanie Zandra Noah Gellman...... Tommy Lelyo, Charles Shoemaker (alternating) The Dryer...... Brian L. Boyd Grandma Gellman...... Linda Roeming Grandpa Gellman...... Fred Frabottta Rose Stopnick Gellman...... Eliza Engle Stuart Gellman...... Courtney Dease Dotty Moffett...... Candy McLellan The Moon...... Teresa Stanley* The Bus...... Brian L. Boyd Emmie Thibodeaux...... Alexis Ijeoma Nwokoji Jackie Thibodeaux...... Samuel Waite Joe Thibodeaux...... Kenyon Edwards Mr. Stopnick...... John Lombardi*

London Upshaw is the understudy for the roles of Jackie and Joe Thibodeaux.

musicians

Music Director/Piano...... Nikki Ervin Auxiliary Keys...... Brennan Stylez Bass Guitar...... Joe Bruno Drums...... John Walker Percussion...... Scott Blum Greg Germany will play bass guitar at some performances.

Caroline, or Change was Originally Directed on Broadway by George C. Wolfe and Originally Produced on Broadway by Carole Shorenstein Hays, HBO Films, Jujamcyn Theatre, Freddy DeMann, , Hendel/Morten/Wiesenfeld, Fox Theatricals/Manocherian/Bergere, Roger Berlind, Clear Channel Entertainment, Joan Cullman, Greg Holland/Scott Nederlander, Margo Lion, Daryl Roth, Zollo/Sine in association with the Public Theatre. Originally Developed and Produced in October 2003 by the Public Theatre; George C. Wolfe, Producer; Mara Manus, Executive Producer. A Broadway revival of Caroline, or Change is scheduled to open in March 2020. WBTT TEAM

Founder and Artistic Director...... Nate Jacobs * Executive Director...... Julie Leach Development and Artist Relations Associate...... Ariel Blue Resident Property Master...... Annette Breazeale Master Seamstress...... Darci Collins Child Wranglers...... Marlene Deutsch, Janiah Gregory, Aleah Williams Production Manager/ Resident Music Director...... James “Jay” Dodge II Marketing and Communications Director...... Scott Ferguson Development Director...... Debra Flynt-Garrett Resident Choreographer...... * Donald Frison Finance Manager...... Robert Grant Box Office Associates...... Naquila Gregory, Margaret Lindsey Custodian...... Gerald Law Stage Hands...... Paul Matthias, Amber Myers, Trinity Pitts House Manager...... * Myllanna McKinnon Production Assistant/ Assistant to the Artistic Director...... Michael Mejia-Mendez Box Office Manager...... Eleanor Miller Production Stage Manager...... Juanita Munford * Wardrobe Manager...... Adrienne Pitts Associate Managing Director...... Travis Ray Resident Sound Engineer...... Patrick Russini Technical Director...... Shane Streight Resident Assistant Music Director...... Brennan Stylez Photographer...... Sorcha Augustine Artist Housing Manager...... Christine Brown Media Relations...... Sharon Kunkel, Wordslinger Marketing & PR Graphic Design...... Paula Murray, Artefact Design Grants Consultant...... Denise Roberts Videographer...... Bill Wagy Productions Director’s note

Caroline, or Change is not your typical composition. In fact, I have often heard it referred to as an . This is because, as you would find in that genre, the lyrics in the songs are where the true story is told. It’s also a celebration of the diversity of the African American musical legacy. However, it challenges us by presenting circumstances not often seen or addressed in your everyday musical. It is textured and layered with very thoughtful commentary as it reveals the stories of complicated characters trying to find their way. Juxtaposed against a background of turbulence and upheaval in American society, the overall theme is reflected all around us: Change is inevitable. This is a musical that requires attentive ears ready to soak up all that the story seeks to have us understand. Namely, we must all accept change or get lost in the tide that will continue to flow despite our best efforts. I must thank WBTT, Nate Jacobs, Julie Leach and the Board of Trustees for the support and faith shown to me. It has not escaped me that this production launches the newly renovated theatre and that I was asked to be involved in that great celebration. Thank you! Also, thank you to the entire creative team and Stage Manager Juanita Munford (my rock) for all your hard work and talent. ! And thank you to the faithful audience members for your continued support. You are the reason we do what we do, and it would not be possible without you. —Jim Weaver

Special thanks

Caroline, or Change We are grateful to our friends at: Opening Night Cast Party The Exchange sponsored by Heritage Cleaners Pines of Sarasota Fabulous Finds Thrift Shop The Players Centre For Performing Arts Act ONE

Scene 1: Washer/Dryer Scene 2: Cabbage Scene 3: Long Distance Scene 4: Moon Change Scene 5: Duets Scene 6: The Bleach Cup

Act TWO

Scene 7: Ironing Scene 8: The Chanukah Party Scene 9: The Twenty-Dollar Bill Scene 10: Aftermath Scene 11: Lot’s Wife Scene 12: How Long Has This Been Going On? Epilogue

The play takes place in Lake Charles, Louisiana, November-December 1963.

There will be one 15-minute intermission

Please turn off all electronic devices such as cellular phones, beepers, and watches. The video and/or audio recording of this performance by any means whatsoever is strictly prohibited. cast and creative

Brian L. Boyd (The films, trailers, videos; has directed and Dryer/The Bus) was choreographed productions, and has had born and raised in the privilege of singing background vocals Fort Lauderdale, Fla. for many different artists. Toddra was He studied the art of featured in the five-time award-winning Theatre Performance at short film Black and Blue, directed and Florida A&M University. produced by Taylor Gunn; acted in Zoe This is his fourth season 911: The Movie with Paul Antoine; and is with the troupe. He appeared in A currently tearing up the role of Levelle in Christmas at the Sarasota Opera House in the web series To Each His Own, which is December and in his WBTT Young Artist currently in its second season. Toddra is Program, A Rhapsody Revelation, this past currently filming for other up-and-coming April. His WBTT appearances also include web series set to release next year. The Amen Corner, : Prince of Soul, , The Mountaintop, A Motown Courtney Dease Christmas, , Broadway In (Stuart Gellman) Black, Dearly Departed, Black Nativity Courtney is excited and How I Got Over: A Tribute to Mahalia to be appearing for Jackson. Boyd performed with the troupe the first time with the at the National Black Theatre Festival in Westcoast Black Theatre Winston-Salem, N.C. in 2017. His other Troupe! He made his regional theatre credits include national tour debut (Coalhouse Walker Jr.) in Ft. Collins, Colo., in Stephen Schwartz’s Pippin, traveling Smokey Joe’s Cafe (Ken) in Tyrone, Ga., the country in the role of Lewis and and an original show Motones Vs. Jerseys tackling the title role of Pippin at select in Washington, D.C. Boyd is also the Co- performances. Courtney calls Director of Music Acting Dance, LLC , City home; most recently he was seen with fellow artist Brentney J. He recently Off-Broadway originating a role in a new launched his own , The Enigma musical . Throughout his career, Artistic Experience LLC. Courtney has traveled to almost 40 different countries and four continents Toddra Brunson performing with popular cruise lines (The Radio) has been such as Princess, Holland and blessed to grace many Celebrity. He is a graduate of Coker stages in various University with a BA degree in Vocal capacities. No stranger Performance. Other favorite past roles to acting, her credits include Seymour Krelborn in Little Shop include her portrayal of of Horrors, The Baker in , at the Seminole Huck Finn in and Link Larkin Theatre, for which she is nominated in . For more about Courtney, as Best Actress in a Musical in the visit courtneydease.com or follow him on 2019 BroadwayWorld Miami Awards; Instagram: @courtneydease Simply Simone: The Musical, which was nominated for a Carbonell Award; Kenyon Edwards Little Shop of Horrors (Urchin); (Joe Thibodeaux) (Miss Hannigan); Hairspray: The Musical, has been selected to in which she displayed her powerful be a member of the vocals as the showstopping character Principal’s Cabinet at his Motormouth Maybelle; The Old Settler school. He aspires to be with The M Ensemble (Elizabeth Borny) a veterinarian when he and a host of other plays. In addition to grows up, as his love for theatre, Toddra has also performed in animals is huge. He also has an interest in paleontology, fulfilling his inquisitive side with his research of fossils. Kenyon *Member of Actors’ Equity Association (AEA), loves singing, dancing and acting. He the Union of Professional Actors and Stage has participated in drama at his previous Managers in the United States cast and creative school where he was a dancer in a flash (N.H.), Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre mobs and held several lead roles in (Fla.), Foothills Theatre (Mass.), Worcester skits at his school. At WBTT last season, Foothills Theatre (Mass), Winnipesaukee Kenyon was an understudy for the role Playhouse (N.H.), St. Petersburg Opera of Travis in Raisin and participated in Company (Fla.), Interlakes Summer Stage of Discovery, performing in Folktale Theatre (N.H.) and MacHaydn Theatre . When Kenyon is not acting he is (N.Y.). He earned his Bachelor and busy participating in community work. He Master of Music (Vocal Performance) is a youth speaker for his church, plays degrees at The Catholic University of piano, loves reading, and enjoys being America, Washington, D.C. Fun Fact: Fred a little boy and hanging out with his big studied piano with Johnny Costa, music brothers. Kenyon’s favorite quote is “We director of the PBS show, Mister Rogers’ grow, and as we grow we must learn new Neighborhood. Visit fredfrabottaactor.com and better ways to express ourselves.” Jannie Jones* ELIZA ENGLE (Rose (Caroline Thibodeaux) Gellman) Is thrilled to was last seen in a one- make her debut with woman show at Florida WBTT! Some of her Studio Theatre, Ethel favorite credits include: Waters: His Eye is on the (Maria), Sparrow. She appeared Annie Get Your Gun at WBTT last season (Annie Oakley), Little as Mama Lena in Raisin. The 2019 Handy Women (Jo March), The 25th Annual Awards (Jay Handelman, Sarasota Herald- Putnam County Spelling Bee (Marcy Park), Tribune) recognized Jannie in the Best (Bebe), The Mystery of Actress category for her performances Edwin Drood (Rosa Bud), Into The Woods in both shows. She created the role of (Rapunzel), Meet Me in St. Louis (Esther), Annabella in Gathering Blue (World (Laker Girl), Kiss Me Kate Premiere) at the Mt. Gretna Theatre. She (Ensemble) and The Merry Widow (Margo played and Nina Simone the ). Eliza has studied ballroom in A Night with Janis Joplin at Capital Rep and Latin dancing as well as jazz, tap and and The Barter Theatre, and performed in musical theatre dance. She received her The Black Stars of the Great White Way BFA in Theater from Stephens College and with Tony Award-winners Norm Lewis and was blessed to study voice with mentors Andre DeShields and Emmy Award-winner from all over the country. She is also an Obba Babatunde at the National Black avid animal lover and baker. Thank you to Theatre Festival. Catch her episode of The her family, friends and mentors for their Get Down (Cool Herc’s Mom) on Netflix support but most of all her husband, who and Power on Starz. Jannie has appeared always believes in her and supports her on Broadway in The Full Monty (Joanie every endeavor: [email protected] Lish; understudy Georgie), Off-Broadway in Mama, I Want to Sing (Sister Carrie) Fred Frabotta and Faith Journey (Traci), and in the first (Grampa Gellman) has national Broadway tour of All Shook Up appeared in numerous (Sylvia). She won an Audelco Award for plays and musicals, ’s (Rose) and a Bay including: (Herr Area Critics Award for Black Pearl Sings Schultz), (Pearl). She received critical acclaim (Franz Liebkind), My for two one-woman shows, My Castle’s Fair Lady (Alfred P. Rockin’ (Alberta Hunter) and Ethel Doolittle), The Addams Family (Uncle Waters: His Eye is on the Sparrow, written Fester), The Polar Express (Santa Claus), by Larry Parr and premiering at Florida The Most Happy Fella (Tony) and West Studio Theatre. She can be heard on Barry Side Story (Doc). The producing theatres White’s CD Practice What You Preach and include: Ogunquit Playhouse (Maine), has performed at . Cabaret (National Tour), Barnstormers cast and creative

TOMMY LELYO (Dad’s Garage) Aida and Oliver! (Atlanta (Alternating as Noah Lyric) An Octoroon and Head Over Heels Gellman) Is thrilled to (Actor’s Express) and The Curious Incident make his WBTT debut of the Dog in the Nighttime (Horizon in Caroline, or Change. Theatre). After Caroline, or Change, Candy His past performances will appear in Cotton Patch Gospel at include young Abel in Theatrical Outfit. Follow her on Instagram: . He @candymac_24 is an active member of the Spotlight Kids theatre group. You may see Tommy ALEXIS IJEOMA around town performing at local events NWOKOJI (Emmie with the Music Compound. Special thanks Thibodeaux) Alexis is to Ms. Cynthia Ashford, Ms. Denise Verheul so happy to be making and Mom and Dad! her WBTT debut! A native of Nashville, she JOHN LOMBARDI* (Mr. now lives in New York Stopnick) John was last City. Alexis recently seen as Rothko in Red performed in the Paw Patrol Live! national at The Studio Theatre tour (Rocky, Mayor Goodway), Hairspray (Broadway World (Dynamite), and Spring Awakening (Thea). nominee). Tampa Bay area Regional credits include : The performances include Musical (Deloris Van Cartier). Big thanks Herr Shultz in Cabaret and to Lynda Arnold, her agent at Seven Stars Gaston in An Empty Plate at freeFall Theatre Talent Inc., and her alum, Southern Illinois (both Theatre Tampa Bay nominations). In University at Carbondale. Alexis also thanks addition to many other freeFall productions, WBTT’s Caroline, or Change creative team John has performed at Asolo Rep, American for making her feel right at home, and her Stage, Florida Rep and The Jaeb Theatre. In friends and family for their endless support. addition to many regional and Off-Broadway Follow her on Instagram: @anwokoji credits, John is a member of the Repertory Company. He received his BA ANNAYA OSBORN in Theatre from Roger Williams University (The Radio) Annaya and his MA in Theatre from Montclair Osborne is thrilled to State University. John is a proud member perform in Westcoast of Actors’ Equity Association. This show Black Theatre troupe’s marks his debut with the Westcoast Black production of Caroline, Theatre Troupe. John is delighted to be or Change. Annaya is a part of Caroline, or Change. graduate of Maltz Jupiter Theatre Conservatory of Performing Arts CANDY MCLELLAN Professional Training Program. Her credits (Dotty Moffett) include (Mary), Ragtime (Sarah’s graduated from the friend), (Petra), Little University of West Shop Of Horrors (Ronnette), Shout: The and is a Mod Musical (Yellow Girl), The Rocky graduate of the 2016- Horror Picture Show (Phantom), 2017 acting apprentice (Joanne), West Side Story (Anita), company at Aurora (Captain) and many more. Theatre. Her professional credits include In The Heights, The Hunchback of Notre LINDA ROEMING Dame (Aurora Theatre and Theatrical (Grandma Gellman) is Outfit co-production) Christmas thrilled to be making Canteen, The Three Billy Goats Gruff, her WBTT debut with Sweep, Cinderella: The Remix, Mamma Caroline, or Change. Mia!, Sleepy Hollow, Beat Bugs and Men Some of Linda’s favorite With Money (Aurora Theatre), 110 in the roles were performed Shade (Theatrical Outfit), Black Nerd in Colorado from a cast and creative truck that toured parks performing SAMUEL WAITE (Jackie children’s theatre. Other memorable Thibodeaux) is 11 roles include West Side Story (Rosalia), years old; he has been Pippin (Berthe), Follies (Emily Whitman), following his dream and Carmen (Cigarette Girl), Nunsense (Sister using his gifts since he Robert Anne), (hoofer), Talk was 3. In December, Radio (seven character callers), Deathtrap Samuel appeared in this (Myra), and Peter Pan (Indian). Favorite season’s production of dancer and ensemble roles include Catch A Motown Christmas. This past summer Me If You Can, The Producers, Mary he was featured in WBTT’s Stage of Poppins, Three Penny Opera, and Side Discovery student production, A Journey Show. Special thanks to her husband and to Motown. Last season Samuel wowed daughters for their love and support. audiences as Travis in Raisin and last summer he began his climb to stardom CHARLES SHOEMAKER as Jack (of Beanstalk fame) in the WBTT (Alternating as Noah musical Rockin’ Down Fairytale Lane. Gellman) is honored to He had his first Broadway audition this be making his WBTT past summer and is grateful for all the debut! He was recently wonderful opportunities he has had, seen at Asolo Rep in The especially with Nate Jacobs and (Winthrop) as WBTT theatre family. Samuel is a sixth- well as local community grade student at Booker Middle School in theaters in Sarasota and Venice. His the Visual and Performing Arts program. credits include Stuart Little: The Musical He previously appeared in Beauty and the (Stuart); A Christmas Carol (Tiny Tim); A Beast at Woodland Fine Arts Academy Christmas Story: The Musical (Randy); and and at Rowlett Academy of the Arts and Peter Pan (Michael Darling). He is 10 years Communication, he was in Madagascar old and attends Southside Elementary and was the lead in Aladdin. Samuel has School; he swims for the Sarasota Tsunami performed solos and duets over the last Swim Team. He would like to thank Teresa few years. He is excited to be performing O’Connell for all her help and WBTT for in Caroline, or Change alongside his this wonderful opportunity. favorite performers!

TERESA STANLEY* (The VALLEA E. WOODBURY Moon) As a founding (The Washing member of Westcoast Machine) “Vuh LAY uh” Black Theatre Troupe, is delighted to make I’m honored to be a part her WBTT debut! of the 20th Anniversary Regional credits include season. I’ve been on (Florida:) Company countless national (Sarah); (Atlanta:) Ain’t and international stages, performing on Misbehavin’ (Armelia), La Cage aux Broadway in The Color Purple and Rock of Folles (Jacqueline), Bob’s Marley’s Ages, at the Oscars and the Met; and I was Three Little Birds (Tacoomah), The a featured vocalist in the Grammy Award- Crucible (Tituba), Simply Simone (US Nina winning motion picture The Greatest 3 & 4), Singles in Agriculture (Lois), Tell Showman, to name a few. My heart has Me My Dream at Alliance Theatre; always pulled me back to WBTT. This is (Milwaukee:) The Color Purple, The Sacred Ground! Thank you to everyone Musical (Doris), A Christmas Carol that helped make this dream come to life (Ensemble). (:) Ragtime and flourish. Thank you, Nate, for letting (Ensemble, US Sarah’s Friend), The me be a part of the ground roots of Second City. Vallea has an MFA this vision. To my mother Rosa, Brother from the University of Georgia, is a Michael, Pops, and Amani, The Divine gave Northwestern University graduate and me the best family. I love you to the Moon trained at the School at Steppenwolf and back. and at Chicago Improv cast and creative

C onservatory. Thanks to God, her family, is writing the screenplay for a new film and YOU for supporting live theatre. www. adaptation of West Side Story, directed by vallea.com Spielberg and scheduled to be released in December 2020. STEPHANIE ZANDRA (The Radio) Atlanta: The JEANINE TESORI (Music) won the Tony Wiz, The Nativity: A Award for Best Original Score with Gospel Explosion (True Lisa Kron for the musical . Color Theatre Company), She has also written Tony-nominated Soweto, Jekonni’s scores for Twelfth Night at Song, Times, B.L.A.C.K. Center; Thoroughly Modern Millie (lyrics, (Freddie Hendricks’ Dick Scanlan); Caroline, or Change (lyrics, Youth Ensemble of Atlanta), A Midsummer Tony Kushner); and Shrek The Musical Nights Dream, Alice in Wonderland: (lyrics, David Lindsay-Abaire). The A Most Curious Dream, Hair (Serenbe production of Caroline, or Change at the Playhouse), Black Nativity (Dominion National Theatre in received the Entertainment), The Color Purple (Actor’s Olivier Award for Best New Musical. Her Express), the Musical ( Georgia 1997 Off-Broadway musical Violet (lyrics, Ensemble Theatre). Film: Selma, Lord, Brian Crawley) opened on Broadway in Selma (Wonderful World of Disney). 2014 and garnered four Tony nominations, Stephanie is a singer and songwriter. You including Best Musical Revival. Opera: A can find her single, Fallin’, wherever music Blizzard on Marblehead Neck (, is streamed under the name AlexZandra. Tony Kushner; Glimmerglass) and The To my dad: Thank you for loving me most. Lion, The Unicorn, and Me (libretto, J. D. To my mom and brother, Tommy: I pray McClatchy, Kennedy Center). Music for you love what you see. Keep resting and plays: Mother Courage (dir. George C. watching. Wolfe, with and Kevin Kline), John Guare’s A Free Man of Color (Lincoln Tony Kushner (Book and Lyrics) is a Center Theater, dir. George C. Wolfe), Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, author and Romeo and Juliet (Delacorte Gala). and screenwriter whose plays include Film scores: Nights in Rodanthe, Every A Bright Room Called Day; Angels in Day, and You’re Not You. Ms. Tesori is America, Parts One and Two; Slavs!; a member of the Dramatists Guild and Homebody/Kabul; and Caroline, or Change, was cited by the American Society of a musical with composer Jeanine Tesori. Composers, Authors and Publishers He has written adaptations of Corneille’s (ASCAP) as the first female composer The Illusion, S.Y. Ansky’s The Dybbuk, and to have two new musicals running Brecht’s The Good Person of Sezuan and concurrently on Broadway. She was the Mother Courage and Her Children; as founding artistic director of Encores! well as the English-language libretto for Off-Center at Center, and a the opera Brundibar by Hans Krasa. He lecturer in music at Yale University. Most wrote the screenplay for the Mike Nichols’ of all, she is the proud parent of Siena film of and for Steven Rafter. Spielberg’s films Munich and Lincoln. His books include Brundibar, with illustrations JIM WEAVER† (Director/ by Maurice Sendak; The Art of Maurice Choreographer) is Sendak, 1980 to the Present; and Wrestling thrilled to be back at With Zion: Progressive Jewish-American WBTT, after last season’s Responses to the Palestinian/Israeli production of Raisin, Conflict, co-edited with Alisa Solomon. to acknowledge and He received the celebrate the opening from President in 2013. He of this magnificent new performance space. What an honor. The choice of Caroline, or Change as the †The Director is a member of the STAGE first production to christen this stage is DIRECTORS AND CHOREOGRAPHERS SOCIETY, apropos as well; a story reflecting change a national theatrical labor union. cast and creative and growth. Mr. Weaver’s previous works the arts and education. In 2015, Nate was for WBTT includes productions of In recognized as a Champion of Diversity the Heights, , Purlie, , and for the arts during the Biz(941) and La the award-winning , Guia magazines’ Unity Awards Luncheon, among others. A critically acclaimed and was honored with the prestigious mounting of Next to Normal recently Larry Leon Hamlin Producer Award during won Mr. Weaver the 2018 Cleveland the National Black Theatre Festival in Critics Circle Award as Best Director of Winston-Salem, N.C., “for his contributions a Musical. Other regional productions to Black theatre specifically and American include Ragtime, , Dirty Rotten theatre in general.” In 2017, Goodwill Scoundrels, The Mystery of Edwin Drood, Manasota named him a Community Five Guys Named Moe, , Ambassador of the Year. In 2018, the Arts On This Island, Saturday Night, Ain’t and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County Misbehavin’, The Rocky Horror Show and honored Nate with the Arts Leadership several others; including award-winning Award for Artistic Achievement. In 2019 productions of and Legally he brought Soul Man to the National Black Blonde. Mr. Weaver holds a Master of Fine Theatre Festival in Winston-Salem, N.C. — Arts degree in acting and is the theatre WBTT’s fourth appearance there. director for Kent State University at Stark in Ohio. His work has been seen at New NIKKI ERVIN (Music York’s , The American Stage Director) is an American Company, Bay Street Theatre and many musician, songwriter, others. Internationally, his work has been record producer and presented in The Netherlands, Germany, music director. She has Belgium, and Austria. In addition to toured the U.S. and his work as a director and choreographer, Europe with various Mr. Weaver is an actor and singer who has artists and most recently performed on Broadway, off-Broadway, became an adjunct instructor for the regionally, and across Europe. He has been Soul Bird Music School in Osaka, Japan. seen on television and in films.H e can Caroline, or Change is her first theatrical also be heard on several cast recordings production as Music Director. and voiceovers. Mr. Weaver is a proud member of the Stage Directors and JAMES “JAY” DODGE II Choreographers Society. More information (Production Manager/ is available at jimweaver.biz. Resident Music Director) recently celebrated NATE JACOBS (WBTT his 10th anniversary Founder & Artistic as WBTT’s Production Director) is a driving Manager and Resident force in Florida’s theatre Music Director. A scene. A graduate of producer, composer, arranger and Florida A&M University, songwriter, Jay oversaw the production Nate founded Westcoast and music for three of WBTT’s four Black Theatre Troupe in appearances at the National Black Theatre 1999. He has written, composed, directed Festival in Winston-Salem, N.C. He began and performed in many shows, as an actor, playing the bass at age 13 and, through singer, dancer and . He works the years, has directed several band extensively in the community training and ensembles and accompanied many singers mentoring youth in the performing arts. As with his smooth melodic bass playing. He a result of his outstanding contributions has traveled with the renowned Westcoast to young people, the Sarasota County Gospel Chorus of Florida and The HLP Branch NAACP Youth Council recognized Love Campaign, touring the U.S., Europe, Nate as one of its 2012 Men of Valor. In Africa and the Caribbean, and performing the spring of 2013, he was inducted into a holiday show at the White House. the Community Video Archives Hall of His local and national TV appearances Fame for his significant contributions to include Fox, NBC, BET and the CW cast and creative

Network. Jay has accompanied many Spearheaded by Florida Studio Theatre, artists, including recording sensation the local initiative is part of a nationwide Terrell Carter, Kermit Quinn of the vocal celebration of the 100th anniversary of group Blackstreet, Broadway stars Melba women’s right to vote. Ariel is a graduate Moore and Chester Gregory, international of Stetson University with a major in recording artist Frank McComb, and communications and a minor in theatre. gospel greats Hezekiah Walker, Kim In addition to performing, she is WBTT’s Burrell, , Albertina Walker, Development and Artist Relations Dorothy Norwood, Kurt Carr, Byron Cage, Associate. Richard Smallwood and Bishop Walter Hawkins. Jay holds a Bachelor of Arts ANNETTE BREAZEALE (Properties degree in Music Performance from Florida Designer) is WBTT’s Resident Property International University. He is a loving Master. She has designed props for area husband to his wife Renae and father to stages including Banyan Theatre Company his two boys, Jay and Kai. and the FSU Conservatory at the Asolo Theatre. In addition, she has worked as JUANITA MUNFORD* (Production Stage art director and production designer for Manager) has extensive experience as national and international feature films a stage manager. This Manchester, N.H. and music videos. She would like to thank native attended St. Michael’s College in Nate Jacobs for the opportunity to work Winooski, Vt. After working in St. Michael’s with such a talented and inspirational Playhouse, she moved to Sarasota in 1983 group of theatre artists. and became the stage manager for more than 90 shows at the Asolo Repertory TRAVIS McCUE (Wig Designer) was born Theatre. Juanita’s first WBTT show as and raised in Sarasota. He graduated from stage manager was Marvin Gaye: The Man Booker High School and attended State & His Music in 2011 and she has served College of Florida Manatee-Sarasota. At in that role ever since. She is very proud WBTT he created wigs for A Motown to be working with Nate Jacobs and the Christmas, Rockin’ Down Fairytale Lane, amazing people at WBTT. Juanita lives in Soul Man, The Mountaintop, Raisin, Marvin Sarasota with her menagerie of pets. Gaye: Prince of Soul, Black Nativity, The Amen Corner and Love Sung in the Key Ariel blue* (Assistant Stage Manager) of Aretha. “I love what I do — creating is a well-known troupe member who was one-of-a-kind looks that help make the recently seen in A Motown Christmas, characters in plays come to life for the The Amen Corner, Marvin Gaye: Prince audience.” of Soul, Rockin’ Down Fairytale Lane, and Soul Man. She has MICHAEL NEWTON-BROWN (Set starred in her one-woman show, The Designer) is a director as well as a scenic Power of the Voice. Ariel has worked and lighting designer. He has designed for consistently with Westcoast Black Theatre , Barry Manilow, Joan Rivers, Troupe since her breakout role in Ain’t Jerry Herman, Carole Channing, Leslie Misbehavin’. Additional memorable Uggams, Disney On Ice, Busch Gardens, shows at WBTT and on other stages NBC News Affiliate stations, SAKS 5th include Little Shop of Horrors, , Avenue, The NFL, the national tour of , It Ain’t Nothin’ But the Blues, Jerry’s Girls prior to Broadway, cruise All Shook Up, Disenchanted, Love Sung ships, opera companies, dance companies in the Key of Aretha, and Beehive: The and professional theatres across the Musical. This summer she appeared in country. Locally, Michael has designed WBTT’s production of Soul Man at the or directed for The Players, MPAC, The National Black Theatre Festival. She has Venice Theatre and the Golden Apple. He performed as a vocalist in the Connelli has been designing for WBTT for six years Circus in Switzerland and with the Florida and is excited to be a part of the first Studio Theatre Improv. Ariel is also a productions in the new theatre. contributing performer for the Sarasota- Manatee community’s Suffragist Project. cast and creative

MICHAEL PASQUINI (Lighting Designer) the play was performed, Adrienne knew Michael designed the lighting for WBTT’s she wanted to be a creative writer and A Motown Christmas in December. His eventually see her plays come to life on designs for WBTT last season included stage. She wrote the script for WBTT’s Black Nativity, Marvin Gaye: Prince 2019 Stage of Discovery summer show, of Soul and Raisin. This summer he A Journey to Motown. She is also designed Macbeth, Twelfth Night and interested in writing television series. Lauren Gunderson’s The Book of Will for Adrienne is grateful for Nate Jacobs and the Utah Shakespeare Festival. He also the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe for designed Dog Days Theatre’s productions allowing her to learn and grow in this of Theophilus North and Harbor. He amazing company. remounted The Amish Project with Katherine Michelle Tanner at the School PATRICIA VANDENBERG, Ph.D. (Costume House Theatre in Croton Falls, NY. Other Designer) has had a long career as recent designs include The Fantasticks a top-rated professor in the areas of and Hello, Dolly!, as well as last season’s theatre, communications, and business Annie Get Your Gun and Hairspray for the management. She is also an expert in Players Centre. For Manatee Players, he lit marketing higher education and owns Pirates of Penzance and Barnum (Handy a communication consulting practice. Award Recognition). He also designed The She earned her Ph.D. With Distinction in Barber of Seville for Gulf Coast Symphony. History and Criticism of the Theater from Michael is the Assistant Lighting Designer the University of Michigan, where she and Head Electrician for the Sarasota also received an M.A. in Communications Opera. and did the work for an M.F.A. in costume design. As a professor of theatre, Patricia ADRIENNE PITTS (Assistant Costume chaired theatre departments, designed for Designer) has worked with WBTT as an theatre and dance companies, served on actress and stagehand for over 16 years. the Governing Council of the Association She started out on stage but soon realized for Theater in Higher Education, and was she loved working backstage even more. an adjudicator for the American College Adrienne has been the Wardrobe Manager Theater Festival. As a communications and Lead Stagehand for WBTT since expert her professional positions included 2017. Last season she was the Assistant serving as the Chief Communications Costume Designer for Raisin, Marvin Gaye: and Marketing Officer at the University Prince of Soul and Black Nativity. Adrienne of Massachusetts and at Mount Holyoke has costumed A Motown Christmas, The College, the oldest women’s college in the Mountaintop and Soul Man and was the world. As a consultant Patricia has coached Assistant Costume Designer for Lady CEOs, managers, and entrepreneurs — Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill. Adrienne working with organizations ranging from has also been writing for over 15 years Fortune 500 companies to non-profits. and has been blessed to work with her Her business, PowerUP with Patricia, mentor, Nate Jacobs. She was given helps go-getters get farther faster an opportunity to write a play for her (PowerUpWithPatricia.com). She was church youth group. Since the moment married to the late, distinguished professor of theatre, Julian Olf. heart & soul campaign donors

T hanks to everyone who made our Heart & Soul Campaign a success! Because of your generosity, we exceeded our $8 million goal and raised over $8.5 million! Your dollars have allowed us to transform our campus into a cutting-edge theatre arts center and to begin to build an endowment that will ensure the long-term funding of our facilities, programs and mission.

We’re thrilled to welcome you to Caroline, or Change, the first show in our newly renovated building — the Gerri Aaron and the Aaron Family Foundation Theatre Building! Selected naming opportunities remain. You may also contribute to the funding of our endowment. Please Debra Flynt-Garrett, Development Director, at 941-366-1505, ext. 106, if you would like to know more or contribute.

Commitments received through October 31, 2019 are included in this season’s ; commitments received between November 1, 2019 and January 1, 2020, are gratefully acknowledged below.

$25,000–$49,999 Jacquelyn Woods

$2,500–$9,999 Tom & Barbara Gardner Ted & Jean Ingersoll Antoinette Sijatz

Up to $2,499 Judy & Jon Savage in Honor of Brock & Julie Leach and Family Jeffrey Smith & Deborah Mix SEASON SPONSORS

Donations received between November 1, 2019 and January 1, 2020 *Denotes 5 years or more of continuous support

PLAYWRIGHTS I $5,000–$9,999 Scott B. & Annie P. Appleby Charitable Trust James & Debra Diggs Sidney & Mary Harris Marilyn Harwell

DIRECTORS | $2,500–$4,999 John Cranor in Honor of Kitty Cranor* James & Pauline Kennedy Roger & Alisa Pettingell

CHOREOGRAPHERS I $1,000–$2,499 Charles & Theresa Brown Jane Town Conner Foundation at the Community Foundation of Sarasota County in Honor of Nate Jacobs Doug & Willie Eden Family Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation The Albert Goodstein Family Foundation Darlene Kalada & Richard Bryan* David & Francine Newman The Newman Family Fund David & Robin Shapiro Janet & Bruce Udell and the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee Ronald & Geri Yonover SEASON SPONSORS

DESIGNERS I $500–$999 Susan Buck* Frank & Barbara Fleischer* Lucie & David Lapovsky Mr. & Mrs. Gerald Lublin Ann Hobson Pilot & Prentice Pilot* Salten Weingrod Family Fund at the Rhode Island Foundation

STAGE HANDS I $35–$499 Anonymous Richard Babcock Michael & Suzanne Berndt Patricia Bourke Luke Cranor Raymond Davies Paula Fishman & Jeff Sindelar Gene & Ann Ginsberg Leigh & Michael Gordon Mary Jo Hixon* Harold & Ruth Kornman Luann Lamp Joan Lovell Frank & Marian Setzman in Honor of Meredith Setzman Ronald & Mary Shapiro Tim & Suze Sheehan Barbara Zdravecky* in Honor of Brock Leach OUR MISSION

The Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe was founded in December 1999, as a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization.

Our mission has always been to produce professional theatre that promotes and celebrates the African American experience, attracts diverse audiences, supports and develops African American artists, and builds the self-esteem of African American youth.

Tax-deductible gifts from generous individuals, businesses, and foundations underwrite WBTT's annual operating budget. Your support helps to keep tickets affordable and provides funds to mentor new local talent and to develop high-quality productions. In addition, your gifts allow us to offer theatre experiences to an underserved population.

Thank you!

WBTT Theatre WESTCOAST 1012 N. Orange Ave. BLACK Sarasota, Florida 34236 THEATRE Visit us online at: WestcoastBlackTheatre.org TROUPE 941-366-1505