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SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 1 Said a Lot Perry’sWill About Him. What Does Your Will Say About You?

Virginian-Pilot publisher Perry Morgan died in 1999. But today he and his late wife Bunny, provide college scholarships for 49 area students and help Virginia Gentleman Foundation build a Virginia Beach adventure camp for people with disabilities. Perry and Bunny will forever help people in Hampton Roads because of their charitable bequest.

Help write our region’s future through your generosity. Learn how at (757) 622-7951 or leaveabequest.org.

www.leaveabequest.org. • (757) 622-7951 2

BequestAds-StageOpera16.indd 3 9/7/16 2:13 PM ABOUT VIRGINIA STAGE

Virginia Stage Company is Southeastern Virginia’s leading non-profit destination, serving an audience of over 70,000 patrons annually, both at the Wells Theatre and throughout the community. Our mission is to “enrich, educate and entertain the region by creating and producing theatrical art of the highest quality.”

Virginia Stage Company is one of the country’s foremost regional theatre companies. Shows receiving their world premieres at Virginia Stage regularly include stories of special regional interest that we commission through our American Soil New Plays Program and musicals on their path to the Great White Way that we present in partnership with Broadway producers. VSC productions are created on site and from the ground up—costumes to sets, sound to lighting—especially for our unique Hampton Roads audience.

Virginia Stage Company connects the Hampton Roads community through initiatives that enrich lives and encourage artists and audiences for the future. Our education and community programming strives to reflect the needs of the communities we serve and to advocate for arts integration and experiences that promote literacy, character development, and critical thinking in the next generation of artists and audiences.

Virginia Stage Company is owned by our community and relies heavily on the generosity of individuals, corporations, municipalities and charitable foundations in reaching its mission. For their support and for the invested enthusiasm of our community, we are deeply grateful. To find more information on becoming involved and supporting professional theatre in our region, please visit us at vastage.org.

SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 3

9/7/16 2:13 PM Grow Forward

CPAs & Advisors with Your Growth in Mind No matter where you want to take your business, you need a resourceful and innovative partner to steer you in the right direction. Let Cherry Bekaert guide you forward to your growth destination.

We are proud to support the Virginia Stage Company.

Find out how we can be your guide forward 222 Central Park Ave. Suite 1400 cbh.com Virginia Beach, VA 23462 757.456.2400

Atlanta | Charlotte | Hampton Roads | Miami | Raleigh | Richmond | Tampa | Washington D.C.

4 THE WIZ THE WIZ

Virginia Stage Company gratefully TABLE OF CONTENTS acknowledges the leadership and support of the following area 3 About Virginia Stage municipalities, state and national arts agencies: 7 The Wiz 9 Cast List 11 Musical Numbers 12 Through the Director’s Eye 15 Cast Bios 24 Creative Team 28 Education and Community Engagement Programs 33 Board of Trustees 35 Corporate & Foundation Support 37 VSC Staff 41 Senior Staff Bios 44 Donor Contributions 49 Virginia Stage Associates

SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 5 INTRODUCING

THE STUDENT

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6 THE WIZ producing artistic director associate producer Tom Quaintance Patrick Mullins

producing artistic director Anthony Stockard

and CHERRY BEKAERT CPAS & ADVISORS

present The Wiz

book by WILLIAM F. bRoWN MusIc ANd LyRIcs by FRoM tHE stoRy “tHE WoNdERFuL WIzARd oF ” by L. FRANk bAuM

scenic designer costume designer lighting designer Korey Washington Jeni Schaefer Jason Amato

sound designer music director choreographer Danny Erdberg Roy Samuel George Kavin Grant

production stage manager Matthew G. Marholin

dIREctEd by Patrick Mullins & Anthony Stockard

Virginia Stage Company is funded in part by grants from The Business Consortium for Arts Support, Virginia Commission for the Arts, the City of Norfolk and the National Endowment for the Arts. “The Wiz” is presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH, INC.

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8 THE WIZ CAST LIST

Pit Singers ...... COCO DENT, TOBIN GAMBLE, LANCE HAWKINS II, SOLOMON LANGLEY, MEREDITH NOËL, KAI B. WHITE, STARLET WINDHAM , Glinda ...... NICOLE POWELL * ...... AVA (Cockapoo), CHICO (Pomeranian), OREO (Pit Bull Mix) ...... ALANA HOUSTON ...... ANTHONY MARK STOCKARD * Lead Tornado ...... ROBERT GARRIS Tornado Dancers ...... SAVANNA BLANTON, DJIMON ARMANI DANIELLE BROWN, ZIPPORAH GATLING †, TIYANA PETERS, MY’ASIA PRICE-CLEARE, BRIESHA RADER, DIYEA THOMPSON ...... PHILLIP AMOFAH JR., SAKEYI FREEZE, TIFFANY GREGORY, TAJLEED HARDY, JAQUAN JONES Addaperle ...... MEREDITH NOËL ...... DERRICK MOORE, ESAIAS ROPER, MA’RAH WILLIAMS, JA’KEETRIUS WOODS ...... MATTHEW JACKSON Crows ...... COREY BROWN, ROBERT GARRIS, JAQUAN JONES, ANTONIO MITCHELL ...... JONATHAN COOPER Lion ...... DARIUS NELSON Kalidah Queen ...... SAKEYI FREEZE Kalidahs ...... PHILLIP AMOFAH JR., LEVONTE HERBERT, CHRISTOPHER LINDSAY, TERRANCE LIVINGSTON JR., ANTONIO MITCHELL Poppies ...... DJIMON ARMANI, DANIELLE BROWN, TIYANA PETERS, MY’ASIA PRICE-CLEARE, BRIESHA RADER Field Mice ...... COREY BROWN, TAJLEED HARDY, JAQUAN JONES Gatekeeper ...... RICK FLOWERS Citizens ...... DJIMON ARMANI, KEEAJAH BALDWIN, SAVANNA BLANTON, SAKEYI FREEZE, ROBERT GARRIS, ZIPPORAH GATLING †, TIFFANY GREGORY, ANTONIO MITCHELL, DERRICK MOORE, TIYANA PETERS, MY’ASIA PRICE-CLEARE, BRIESHA RADER, ESAIAS ROPER, DIYEA THOMPSON, MA’RAH WILLIAMS The Wiz ...... INDYA JACKSON Evillene ...... LAIONA MICHELLE * Lord High Underling ...... TAJLEED HARDY Winkies ...... PHILLIP AMOFAH JR., DJIMON ARMANI, SAVANNA BLANTON, DANIELLE BROWN, ZIPPORAH GATLING †, TIYANA PETERS, MY’ASIA PRICE-CLEARE, BRIESHA RADER, DIYEA THOMPSON, MA’RAH WILLIAMS Soldier Messenger ...... LEVONTE HERBERT Lead Winged Monkey ...... DERRICK MOORE

(Continued on page 10)

SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 9 CAST LIST

Winged Monkeys ...... COREY BROWN, ROBERT GARRIS, CHRISTOPHER LINDSAY, ANTONIO MITCHELL Glinda’s Quadlings ...... CHRISTOPHER LINDSAY, TERRANCE LIVINGSTON JR., DERRICK MOORE

Understudies: For Dorothy: JA’KEETRIUS WOODS, For Scarecrow and Tinman: ESAIAS ROPER Female Swing: JORDAN DUNLAP *, Male swing: ESAIAS ROPER

Production Stage Manager ...... MATTHEW G. MARHOLIN * Assistant Stage Manager ...... ALICIA MORRIS Dance Captain ...... JORDAN DUNLAP * Associate Choreographers ...... JORDAN DUNLAP *, ROBERT GARRIS

* Member of Actors' Equity Association the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States † Appearing Courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association

MUSICIANS

Conductor/Keys 1 ...... ROY SAMUEL GEORGE Assistant Music Director/Keys 2 ...... RODNEY KING Drums ...... GREG CHANDLER Percussion ...... TAU CHATMAN Lead Guitar ...... JASMINE ADKINS Bass ...... DESHAWN MAYS Trumpet ...... TEVANTE SWANSTON Trombone ...... JOHN HILL Sax ...... MINIX Flute/Reeds ...... VINCENTTE JARRETT

10 THE WIZ MUSICAL NUMBERS

ACT 1 Overture ...... Pit Singers The Feeling We Had ...... Aunt Em Tornado ...... Pit Singers He’s the Wiz ...... Addaperle and Munchkins Soon as I Get ...... Dorothy Born On The Day Before Yesterday ...... Scarecrow ...... Yellow Brick Road and Dorothy Slide Some Oil to Me ...... Tin Man Ease On Down the Road (Reprise) ... Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Yellow Brick Road Mean Ole Lion ...... Lion Ease On Down the Road (Reprise) .... Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, and Munchkins Be a Lion ...... Dorothy and Lion Emerald City Dance ...... The Company Meet the Wizard ...... The Wiz What Would I Do If I Could Feel ...... Tin Man

ACT 2 Entr’acte ...... Pit Singers Don’t Nobody Bring Me No News ...... Evillene Funky Monkeys ...... Evillene Back at the Witch’s Castle ...... Pit Singers Everybody Rejoice (Brand New Day) ...... The Company Who Do You Think You Are? ...... Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Lion Believe in Yourself ...... The Wiz Promenade ...... Pit Singers Y’all Got It! ...... The Wiz and the Company A Rested Body ...... Glinda and the Company Believe in Yourself (Reprise) ...... Glinda and the Company Finale ...... Dorothy

There will be a 15-minute intermission. Please silence your cell phone and all other electronic devices. Video and/or audio recording of this performance by any means whatsoever is prohibited by law. Let us know what you thought! Tag us @vastage or at vastage.org/feedback

SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 11 THROUGH THE DIRECTOR’S EYE

First off, I must confess that I have never viewed any version of The Wiz in its entirety before working on this production.

That being said, I never thought that directing The Wiz would be such a touchy subject for me. Oz, witches, and silver slippers did not seem like a likely cause for such deep connection and introspection. Howev- er, the truth is “home” is a “place” that I know noth- ing about. Having been in foster care as a youth, the concept of family is amorphous and sharing a life-long history with someone is a concept that still eludes me.

When we meet Dorothy, “home” seems like a place that she too knows nothing about. For her, home is a place where her parents are absent and she feels like a burden to her aunt and uncle. As a result, we find her searching for a place in the world that feels both safe and real. It is not until she lands in Oz that she realizes everything she wanted there in all along.

I hope that Wiz audiences are reminded about the importance of letting people know that they matter and are loved – and whether those people you hold dear are parents, kinfolk, or friends who became family, it doesn’t really matter – as long as when they are around, it feels like home.

Speaking of home, it sure feels like it here at VSC. Our students at NSU have enjoyed working alongside and learning from professionals in many areas of theatre. This co- production has been such an eye-opening experience for all of our wonderful, hard- working and gifted students. To Patrick Mullins, my co-director on this production and the other half of the driving force behind the amazing NSU-VSC collaborations -- there truly are no words to describe my gratitude for all of the unbelievable opportunities you and VSC have afforded my students. To all of our new family at VSC, on behalf of the students and everyone at NSU, I say THANK YOU!

— Anthony Stockard

Follow Norfolk State University Theatre Company on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! @nsutheatre

12 THE WIZ THROUGH THE DIRECTOR’S EYE

When people think of The Wiz they remember the in- credible music, the movie with and , the amazing costumes - but they forget that this iconic, culture-shifting show also took home 7 and ran for four years on Broadway - making it a success by all standards.

But what we now take for granted - that fun show about Dorothy and her friends bopping along to a so- phisticated funk groove - had a rocky start. Critical re- sponse was tepid and sometimes inflammatory. Sales were slow. Closing notices were at the ready on open- ing night. But the greater public knew greatness when they saw it. Thanks to TV commercials and grassroots marketing, once the people knew the show was hap- pening - they showed up. And The Wiz demonstrated that it should not be underesti- mated.

When Anthony Stockard of Norfolk State University and I were considering what we might work on together as a partnership production, we knew that The Wiz was possibly bigger than either of us. But that might be what made it a perfect choice. A show that perhaps NSU or VSC could do alone would be so much bigger together. I love working in non-profit regional theatre because I believe that HOW we make the work is as important as the work that we make. And the opportunity for us all to work together - professionals and students; actors and singers and dancers and musicians and craftspeople and de- signers from all over the country - on a piece that celebrates black excellence and cen- ters on the idea of “home”?!?! What an amazing artistic process to be in. I am a blessed man to have had the opportunity to participate in this event.

I will forever be forever grateful to Professor Stockard and Norfolk State University The- atre Company for going on this journey with us here at Virginia Stage. I believe that part- nerships like this are how we make Hampton Roads a more vibrant place. We can talk about partnerships all day long, but when we roll up our sleeves and work together day after day after day - that’s when we start to find the “home” that many of us have been looking for all along. Thank you to this cast and crew for making Hampton Roads a little more home for me.

— Patrick Mullins

SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 13 14 THE WIZ CAST BIOS

PHILLIP AMOFAH, JR. COREY BROWN (Crow/ (/Kalidah/Winkie) Field Mouse/Monkey) Phillip is a junior Theatre Corey is a junior Theatre Performance student at Performance student at Norfolk State University Norfolk State University from Woodbridge, Virginia. from Norfolk, Virginia. He He has previously appeared has previously appeared in in the Norfolk State the Norfolk State University University Theatre Theatre Company Company production of productions of Black Ruined. Nativity & Ruined. Other credits include A DJIMON ARMANI in the Sun, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, and (Tornado/Poppy/Winkie/ Jitney. Emerald City Citizen) DANIELLE BROWN Djimon is a freshman (Tornado/Poppy/Winkie) Theatre Performance Danielle is a junior Nursing student at Norfolk State student at Norfolk State University from Charlotte, University from Los North Carolina. She has Angeles, California. She has previously appeared in the previously appeared in the Norfolk State University Norfolk State University Theatre Company production of Black Theatre Company Nativity. Other credits include , Footloose, productions of Black A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and In the Nativity & A Musical Tribute to . Heights. JONATHAN COOPER KEEAJAH BALDWIN (Tin Man) Jonathan is a (Emerald City Citizen) junior Theatre Performance Keeajah is a junior Theatre student at Norfolk State Performance student at University from Norfolk, Norfolk State University Virginia. He has previously from Norfolk, Virginia. She appeared in the Virginia has previously appeared in Stage Company production the Norfolk State University of A Raisin in the Sun and Theatre Company the Norfolk State University productions of Ruined and Theatre Company production of Ruined. Black Nativity. Other credits include Rent, Detroit 67’, and SAVANNA BLANTON Black Nativity. (Tornado/Emerald City COCO DENT (Pit Singer) Citizen, Winkie) Savanna is Coco is a Norfolk State a freshmen Fashion Design University alumna from student at Norfolk State Norfolk, Virginia. She has University from Fayetteville, previously appeared in the North Carolina. She has Norfolk State University previously appeared the Theatre Company Norfolk State University productions of The Road Theatre Company Less Traveled, , production of Black Nativity. A Musical Tribute to , For Colored Girls…, and Black Nativity. Other credits include Herbert

(Continued on page 16) SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 15 CAST BIOS (CONTINUED)

the Third, The Magic & Music of , TOBIN GAMBLE (Pit American Menu, Contributions, Tambourines Singer) Tobin is a freshman to Glory, Seven Guitars, Kansas City, and Ain’t Theatre Performance Misbehavin’. She is the recipient of the NSU student at Norfolk State Theatre Company’s 2015 Best Lead Actress in University from Charlotte, a Musical, 2015 Leadership Award and 2016 North Carolina. He has Best Supporting Actress in a Musical awards. previously appeared in the JORDAN DUNLAP Norfolk State University (Dance Captain/Female Theatre Company Swing) is thrilled to be production of Black making her VSC debut. Her Nativity. credits include : National ROBERT GARRIS (Lead Tour : Radio City Christmas Tornado/Crow/Emerald Spectacular, 30th City Citizen/Monkey) Anniversary. Regional Robert is a sophomore Theatre : , Mary Kinesiology student at Poppins (Dance Captain), Norfolk State University Legally Blonde (Serena, Associate from Washington, D.C. He Choreographer), S’Wonderful (Leslie), CATS has previously appeared in (Sillabub), How To Succeed..,, the Norfolk State University and Ballet Company. Thank you to Theatre Company Tom, Patrick, Anthony, and Kavin for this productions of A Musical Tribute to Whitney incredible opportunity. Houston, A Musical Tribute to Luther Vandross, RICK FLOWERS and Black Nativity. (Gatekeeper) Rick is a ZIPPORAH GATLING senior Theatre (Tornado/Winkie/Emerald Performance student at City Citizen) Zipporah is a Norfolk State University junior Business from Richmond, Virginia. Management student at He has previously appeared Norfolk State University in the Norfolk State from New York, New York. University Theatre She has previously Company production of appeared in the Norfolk Ruined. Other credits include The Wiz, A Fool State University Theatre for Love, & Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. Company productions of Black Nativity and A SAKEYI FREEZE Musical Tribute to Luther Vandross. She has (Munchkin/Kalidah Queen/ graced the Broadway stage twice in the Emerald City Citizen) Sakeyi productions of The Color Purple & The Lion is a junior Communications King. Other credits include Grease, Little Shop student at Norfolk State of Horrors, and Leader of the Pack. University from Virginia TIFFANY GREGORY Beach, Virginia. She has (Munchkin/Emerald City previously appeared in the Citizen) Tiffany is a Norfolk Virginia Stage Company State University alumna production of A Christmas from Portsmouth, Virginia. Carol and the Norfolk State University Theatre She has previously Company productions of For Colored Girls…, appeared in the Norfolk No Child, and Ruined. State University Theatre Company production of Black Nativity. Other credits include Seven Guitars, Tambourines to Glory, The Magic & Music of Motown, and The Magic 16 THE WIZ CAST BIOS (CONTINUED)

and Music of Michael Jackson. Musical, , To Kill a Mockingbird, TAJLEED HARDY Legally Blonde, , & The Little Mermaid. (Munchkin/Field Mouse/ INDYA JACKSON (The Lord High Underling) Wiz) Indya is a junior Tajleed is a freshmen Theatre Performance Theatre Performance student at Norfolk State student at Norfolk State University from University from Stafford, Chesapeake, Virginia. She Virginia. He has previously has previously appeared in appeared in the Norfolk the Virginia Stage Company State University Theatre production of A Christmas Company productions of Black Nativity and Carol and the Norfolk State Ruined. University Theatre Company productions of For Colored Girls…, A Musical Tribute to Luther LANCE HAWKINS II (Pit Vandross, A Musical Tribute to Whitney Singer) Lance is a junior Houston, No Child…, A Raisin in the Sun, and Theatre Performance Ruined. student at Norfolk State University from Canton, MATTHEW JACKSON Ohio. He has previously (Scarecrow) Matthew is a appeared in the Norfolk junior Theatre Performance State University Theatre student at Norfolk State Company productions of University from Newport Choir Boy, A Musical Tribute News, Virginia. He has to Whitney Houston, Black Nativity, and previously appeared in the Dreamgirls. Norfolk State University Theatre Company LEVONTE HERBERT productions of Black (Kalidah/Soldier Nativity & Choir Boy. Messenger) Levonte is a sophomore Theatre JAQUAN JONES Performance student at (Munchkin/Crow/Field Norfolk State University Mouse) JaQuan is a from Richmond, Virginia. freshmen Theatre He has previously appeared Performance student at in the Norfolk State Norfolk State University University Theatre from Chesapeake, Virginia. Company productions of Black Nativity and He has previously appeared Ruined. in Norfolk State University Theatre Company ALANA HOUSTON productions of Black Nativity and Ruined. (Dorothy) Alana is an incoming freshman SOLOMON LANGLEY Theatre Performance (Pit Singer) Solomon is a student at Norfolk State freshmen Theatre University. She is currently Performance student at in her senior year at Norfolk State University Northeastern High School from Smithfield, Virginia. in Elizabeth City, North He has previously appeared Carolina. She has previously in the Norfolk State appeared in the Norfolk State University University Theatre Theatre Company productions of Black Company productions of Nativity and A Musical Tribute to Luther Choir Boy, A Musical Tribute to Luther Vandross. Other credits include 13 The Vandross, Black Nativity, and Ruined. (Continued on page 18) SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 17 CAST BIOS (CONTINUED)

CHRISTOPHER production of Because of Winn Dixie. Laiona LINDSAY (Kalidah/ made her Broadway debut as Nanna in Monkey/Quadling) Amazing Grace. Laiona has a long list of Christopher is a senior theater credits which feature her as both a Theatre Performance leading and supporting character. Prior to student at Norfolk State joining the cast of Amazing Grace she was University from Brooklyn, part of The first national tour. New York. He has previously In addition to her stage work, Laiona has also appeared in the Virginia made appearances on network and cable Stage Company television in Showtime’s Lift, ABC’s All My productions of The Tempest and A Christmas Children, NBC’s Law & Order and Law & Order: Carol and the Norfolk State University Theatre CI, and most recently she worked on the Company productions of The Brothers Size, upcoming Amazon series, Sneaky Pete (Bryan A Raisin in the Sun, Dreamgirls, Black Nativity, Cranston and Giovanni Ribisi) and the season The Road Less Traveled, and Ruined. He is the finale of NBC’s The Blacklist. Laiona is a recipient of the 2016 Kennedy Center graduate of Brandeis University (MFA). American College Theatre Festival’s www.laionamichelle.com Distinguished Performance by an Actor in a DERRICK MOORE Play. (Yellow Brick Road/Lead TERRANCE Monkey/Quadling) Derrick LIVINGSTON, JR. is a senior Theatre (Kalidah/Quadling) Performance student at Terrance is a Norfolk State Norfolk State University University alumnus from from St. Louis, Missouri. He Suffolk, Virginia. He has has previously appeared in previously appeared in the the Virginia Stage Virginia Stage Company Company productions of production of A Christmas The Tempest and A Christmas Carol and the Carol and the Norfolk State Norfolk State University Theatre Company University Theatre Company production of productions of The Brothers Size, The Road Ruined. Less Traveled, A Raisin in the Sun, Dreamgirls, Black Nativity, A Musical Tribute to Luther ANTONIO MITCHELL Vandross, No Child…, and Ruined. He is the (Crow/Kalidah/Emerald recipient of the 2016 NSU Theatre Company City Citizen/Monkey) Best Supporting Actor in a Musical award. Antonio is a senior Theatre Performance student at DARIUS NELSON (Lion) Norfolk State University Darius is a graduate of the from Norfolk, Virginia. He American Musical and has previously appeared in Dramatic Academy from the Norfolk State University Norfolk, Virginia. He has Theatre Company previously appeared in the productions of The Brothers Size, Ruined, and Norfolk State University Black Nativity. Theatre Company productions of Black LAIONA MICHELLE Nativity and A Musical (Evillene) is thrilled to return Tribute to Luther Vandross. His love of music to Virginia Stage where she and comedy was instilled in him by his mother, played Ida B. Well in Mildred Rene Nelson, who passed last year. Constant Star and Mayme in Intimate Apparel. Most recently she performed as Millie Wilkinson in the 18 THE WIZ CAST BIOS (CONTINUED)

MEREDITH NOËL MY’ASIA PRICE- (Addaperle/Pit Singer) CLEARE (Tornado/ Meredith is a senior Theatre Poppy/Winkie/Emerald Performance student at City Citizen) My’Asia is a Norfolk State University sophomore Kinesiology from , Maryland. student at Norfolk State She has previously University from appeared in the Virginia Richmond, Virginia. She Stage Company has previously appeared productions of The in the Norfolk State Hampton Years and Oliver Twist and the University Theatre Company productions Norfolk State University Theatre Company of Black Nativity, and A Musical Tribute to productions of Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Luther Vandross. Grill, A Raisin in the Sun, Dreamgirls, Black BRIESHA RADER Nativity, A Musical Tribute to Whitney Houston, (Tornado/Poppy/Winkie/ For Colored Girls… and Ruined. She is the Emerald City Citizen) recipient of the NSU Theatre Company 2015 Briesha is a junior Best Supporting Actress in a Play and 2016 Kinesiology student at Best Supporting Actress in a Musical awards. Norfolk State University TIYANA PETERS from Norfolk, Virginia. (Tornado/Poppy/Winkie/ She has previously Emerald City Citizen) appeared in the Norfolk Tiyana is a sophomore State University Theatre Mass Communications Company productions of Black Nativity and student at Norfolk State A Musical Tribute to Luther Vandross. University from Norfolk, ESAIAS ROPER (Yellow Virginia. She is making her Brick Road/Emerald City debut with the Norfolk Citizen/Understudy for State University Theatre Scarecrow & Tin Man/ Company. Male Swing) Esaias is a NICOLE POWELL (Aunt senior Music Media Em/Glinda) Broadway: student at Norfolk State (revival), Hairspray. University from Red National Tours: South Springs, North Carolina. Pacific, Dream Girls. Off- He has previously Broadway: Sistas: the appeared in the Norfolk State University musical, , Theatre Company productions of Choir Central Avenue Boy, Ruined, No Child…, A Musical Tribute Breakdown. Regional to Luther Vandross, Dreamgirls, and Black theaters: Papermill Nativity. He is the recipient of the 2016 NSU Playhouse, Tuacahn Performing Arts, Theatre Company Best Supporting Actor in Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera, Actors Theatre a Musical award. of Louisville, Northshore Music Theatre, Kansas City’s Starlight Theatre, Main State ANTHONY MARK Music Theatre, Barnstormers Theatre. Film/ STOCKARD (Uncle TV: Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Blue Bloods, Henry) Anthony returns to Are We There Yet?, Delocated, Spike Lee’s VSC after appearing in I Drop Squad. Love to my Hero/Husband Ron. Sing the Rising Sea as This performance is dedicated to my beautiful Langston Hughes, The Aunt Juanita (Neatsie). www.nicolepowell.com Tempest as King Alonzo, (Continued on page 21)

SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 19 Emmy-nominated comic and CNN host

June 10 at 8pm . Attucks Theatre Ticketmaster.com | 800.745.3000 | Scope Arena Box Office

20 THE WIZ CAST BIOS (CONTINUED) and the last two productions of A Christmas MA’RAH WILLIAMS Carol as Jacob Marley (2016) and The Ghost (Yellow Brick Road/ of Christmas Present (2015). His most recent Winkie/Emerald City credits include TV/Film: Surrogates (with Bruce Citizen) Ma’Rah is a senior Willis) Off-Broadway:Old Comedy… at Classic Theatre Performance Stage Company; Regional: No Child… student at Norfolk State (Connecticut Critics Circle Award Winner) at University from Stone Hartford Theatreworks; Intimate Apparel at Mountain, Georgia. She Wellfleet Harbor Actors Theatre; The Three has previously appeared Musketeers at Double Edge Theatre Company; in the Norfolk State One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest and A University Theatre Company production of Christmas Carol at Berkshire Theater Festival; The Road Less Traveled. Other credits The Taming of the Shrew, Coriolanus, Lilly’s include A Motown Christmas, , The Purple Plastic Purse, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Color Purple, and Rent. and The Four Spirits at Alabama Shakespeare STARLET WINDHAM Festival. Anthony holds an M.F.A. in Theatre Arts (Pit Singer) Starlet is a from Brandeis University and a B.A. in Theater freshmen Theatre Arts from Alabama State University. He proudly Performance student at serves as the Director of Virginia’s most Norfolk State University nationally recognized collegiate theatre from , Illinois. program of the year and America’s most She has previously nationally recognized HBCU theatre program appeared in the Virginia of the year, Norfolk State University’s Division Stage Company of Drama. production of A Christmas DIYEA THOMPSON Carol and the Norfolk State University (Winkie/Emerald City Theatre Company productions of Black Citizen/Tornado Dancer) Nativity and Ruined. Diyea is a senior Exercise JA’KEETRIUS WOODS Science student at (Yellow Brick Road/ Norfolk State University Dorothy Understudy) from Richmond, Virginia. Ja’keetrius is a freshmen She has previously Theatre Performance appeared in the Norfolk student at Norfolk State State University Theatre University from Mobile, Company production of Black Nativity. Alabama. She has KAI B. WHITE (Dog previously appeared in Wrangler/Pit Singer) is the Virginia Stage thrilled to be back at VSC Company production of A Christmas Carol working with such an and the Norfolk State University Theatre amazing cast! Her recent Company productions of Black Nativity and credits include Godspell Ruined. at LTN, Olympus On My Mind and Violet with LTVB, You Don’t Own Me: A Tribute to Lesley Gore , and Holidivas with the Zeiders American Dream Theater, Silence! The Musical and Mr. Burns: A Post Electric Play with the Generic Theatre and Dionne in at The Cumberland Theatre. She would like to thank her loving husband Nathan for constantly supporting her XOXO. SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 21 Premiere Arts Training for High School Students Dance Visual Arts Vocal Music Theatre & Film Instrumental Music creativity community collaboration

Visit our Brand New Building! 254 Granby Street, Norfolk www.gsarts.net 757.451.4711 FACEBOOK Twitter @TheGovSchl Instagram @govschool

Forty Eighth Season Program III Program I an rn nn F. Ludwig Diehn Series Featuring the winner of the 2015 Lisa Relaford Coston Voice Competition in cooperation with the Norfolk Chamber Consort Monday, October 3, 2016 Guest Artist – Kevin Bobo, Marimba Christ and St. Luke’s Church 7:30 PM Monday, February 27, 2017 Chandler Recital Hall 8:00 PM Program II rthern tars re eus an esen Program IV Monday, November 21, 2016 as re an hstah Guest Artist – Emily Stauch, Soprano Monday, April 17, 2017 Chandler Recital Hall Chandler Recital Hall 7:30 PM 7:30 PM

22 THE WIZ SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 23 CREATIVE TEAM

PATRICK MULLINS (Director/Associate Brother’s Size. The production beat out more Producer) is the Associate Producer at Virginia than 1,300 productions that were entered in Stage Company. Patrick’s personal adaptation the festival and involved more than 200,000 and directorial work explores where classical students nationwide. texts intersect with current community issues. He is a presidentially appointed NSU Honors Recent projects include: Oliver Twist, The College Senior Fellow and is the recipient of Taming of the Shrew, a synth-pop fantasia the College of Liberal Arts’ 2015 Certificate of mixing Shakespeare’s text and the music of Achievement, NSU Theatre Company’s 2016 Jacki Paolella, Swingtime Salute on the deck Outstanding Dedication & Service Award and of the USS Wisconsin, Honky Tonk Angels and NSU Student Government Association’s 2016 at The Wells Theatre. For Honor & Appreciation Award. three years he has worked with Fest Events in producing The Midsummer Fantasy Festival - Anthony is the former Producing Artistic an immersive Shakespearean festival/visual art Director of Aldridge Repertory Theatre in installation/performance event in Town Point , Alabama. His work with the Park. In addition to work at Virginia Stage company garnered him inclusion in the 2009 Company, he has recently directed shows at edition of Who’s Who in Black Birmingham for Capital Repertory Theatre in Albany, NY and community service and arts leadership. The Ensemble Theatre Company in Santa Barbara, Kennedy Center American College Theatre CA. Productions he has created for touring and Festival has honored him with multiple young people include a video heavy Romeo Meritorious Achievement Awards for and Juliet that integrated area high school Excellence in Directing for his productions of students with professional actors, an R&B The Brothers Size, Black Nativity, Broke-ology fueled tour of Julius Caesar, and a reworking and The Color Purple. of A Christmas Carol that celebrated the music Anthony has directed more than 60 and instruments of Dickens’ period. A veteran productions for professional and university high school teacher of seven years, Patrick stages. He holds memberships and affiliations holds an MFA from the University of South with the Stage Directors & Choreographers Carolina and is an adjunct professor at Old Society, Actors Equity Association, Screen Dominion University. In 2010 he was Actors Guild, The Association for Theatre in recognized by the Hampton Roads Cultural Higher Education and The Society of American Alliance with the Bettie Minette Cooper Arts Fight Directors. He currently sits on the boards Educator award. www.patrickkmullins.com of Region IV of the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival, Cloverdale Playhouse ANTHONY STOCKARD (Director/Director in Montgomery, Alabama and Virginia Theatre of Drama & NSU Theatre Company) Professor Conference. He holds a M.F.A. in Theatre Arts Anthony Stockard proudly serves as the from Brandeis University and a B.A. in Theatre Director of Virginia’s most nationally recognized Arts from Alabama State University. www.nsu. collegiate theatre program of the year and edu/drama America’s #1 Most Nationally Recognized HBCU Theatre & Drama Program of the Year, KOREY WASHINGTON (Set Design) of the NSU Division of Drama. He is also Culver City, California has designed completing his third year as Director of the environments and scenery for award shows, award-winning NSU Theatre Company. Since special events, theatre, film, and tours for over his arrival, the drama and theatre programs at 23 years. Mr. Washington has presented his NSU have gained historic national recognition design work in over 50 venues, arenas and and acclaim and record-breaking audience around the country including the attendance. The most recent honors received Nokia Theatre, The Kennedy Center, Los were national awards from the Kennedy Angeles Theatre Center, The Alliance Theatre, Center American College Theatre Festival for The Dallas Theatre Center and the Universal Distinguished Production & Performance Amphitheater to name a few. He has worked Ensemble and Distinguished Performance by as a Production Designer for many popular an Actor in a Play for the production The and successful productions including Kevin

24 THE WIZ CREATIVE TEAM (CONTINUED)

Hart: What Now? Concert Movie, Versus and Center, NYC. He has toured internationally, Flow, 365 Black Awards, The Neighborhood designing dance at Jacob’s Pillow, Lincoln Awards, Shaquille O’Neal’s All Star Comedy Center, the Smithsonian and the National Jam, The Carbonaro Effect, MTV’s Teen Wolf, Theatre in Taipei, Taiwan. Jason has received The Kings of Comedy and The House of Payne 40 regional awards for his lighting in shows. for TPS Studios. Mr. Washington has received The Austin Chronicle honored him with “Best his B.A. from Morehouse College and the MGA Lighting Design on a Shoe String” in 1995. In from the University of Georgia in Scenic Design 2002 he was honored with “Best Dazzler” in Technology. Mr. Washington is the owner of the Chronicle’s Critics’ poll. In 2008, Jason Production Strategies and Design Group, a full received the “Outstanding Contribution to service production design firm and The Austin Theater” award from Austin Circle of Collective Group, a marketing and couture Theaters. And in 2012 The Kennedy Center event company. Mr. Washington is pleased and recognized Jason’s work on Eurydice at honored to be married to Tracey for 26 years Simpson College, Iowa. www.jasonamato.com and the father to Clark, Jason, and Andrew, the DANIEL ERDBERG (Sound Design) VSC: A inspiration in his life. Christmas Carol, The Tempest, Taming of the JENI SCHAEFER (Costume Design) is Shrew, The Fantasticks, Red, The Last Five Virginia Stage Company’s Resident Costume Years; BROADWAY (ASSOCIATE): Significant Designer and Costume Shop Manager, as well Other; Violet; The Glass Menagerie; The Nance as the Costume Instructor at the GSA’s Theatre (Sound Design Tony Award); The Heiress; A Department. She is celebrating her 15th season Streetcar Named Desire; OFF-BROADWAY: with Virginia Stage. Regional credits include: A Time it Was with Bill Irwin, Fall for Dance Christmas Story at The Arkansas Rep, The Festival (City Center); Rock and Roll Refugee, Hound of the Baskervilles at The Hangar Love/Sick (Royal Family); The Last Cargo Cult, Theatre, Always Patsy Cline at PCPA Theatrefest, Drunk Enough to Say I Love You (Public Tom Jones, In the Book of and Under Six at Theater); Ordinary Days (Roundabout); Golden Florida Studio Theatre. VSC productions to Boy (59E59); Magpie (Amas-Audelco Nom.); name a few: Peter and the Starcatcher, All My REGIONAL: Geva, Metrostage, Arena Stage, Sons, Grounded, The Tempest, The Great Merrimack Rep, ACT, Milwaukee Rep, Gatsby, The Comfort Team, The Fantasticks, Longwharf, Theater by the Sea, Northshore Death of a Salesman, Red, Radio Golf, A Raisin Musical Theater; INTERNATIONAL: Salsa in the Sun, Around the World in 80 days, Wit, Mambo Cha Cha Cha (Havana): Dreamgirls Crowns, Billy Bishop Goes to War, Hank (US Tour, Seoul, Korea); White Christmas Williams List Highway, The Elephant Man, Of (Toronto); EDUCATION: Northwestern Mice and Men, A Christmas Carol and To Kill a University.; As a director, his work has Mocking Bird. Jeni Schaefer holds a Master of appeared at HERE, Dixon Place, The 4x4 Arts in Communication/Theatre in Costume Festival, Barrington Stage and Theaterworks Design from Wichita State University and USA. Proud member of USA829, IATSE and resides in Chesapeake, VA, with her amazing SDC. husband, Tony, and their two beautiful children, Sara and Ethan. MATTHEW G. MARHOLIN (Production Stage Manager) is happy to be back at Virginia JASON AMATO (Lighting Design) His career Stage Company for his eighth season. His work has spanned 25 years, designing over 500 includes Artistic Director for ’s shows, including thought provoking, world production of Alegria in South America. His premiere plays by Steven Dietz , Suzan-Lori PSM credits include Broadway and National Parks and Anna Deavere Smith and iconic Tours for Blood Brothers starring Petula Clark musicals such as: Ragtime, Tommy, Next to and David Cassidy; starring Normal and Hairspray. In addition, Blue Lapis Robert Goulet; Jekyll & Hyde; Smokey Joe’s Light’s site specific aerial dance has always Café; Camelot starring Robert Goulet; A Few been some of his favorite work. His work has Good Men; Grease; ; The Wiz starring been seen off-Broadway with Austin and the World Premiere of Shakespeare’s Anthem, at the Baryshnikov Arts Frank Wildhorn’s Camille Claudel starring Linda SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 25 CREATIVE TEAM (CONTINUED)

Eder. International tours include Porgy and Bess, Carmen Jones, tick, tick…BOOM! and Sophisticated Ladies. To date, Matt’s work has taken him to 27 countries. ADDITIONAL SHOW STAFF . Assistant Stage Manager ...... Keyiera Douglas Make-up Design ...... Brittany Lamb Make-up Assistant ...... Nicholas Bennett Scenic Painter ...... Shawn Crawford Audio Engineer ...... Charles Owrey Audio Technician ...... J.C. Nigh Audio 2 ...... Brando Lindsay Costume Shop ...... Amelia Martinez, Suzette Martinez, Katelyn Jackson Dog Wrangler ...... Kai B. White ASL Interpreters ...... Sabrina Smith, Debbie North The Director is a member of the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers, Inc., an independent labor union.

This Theater operates under an agreement between the League of Resident Theatres and Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.

The scenic, costume, lighting and sound designers in LORT Theaters are represented by United Scenic Artists.

26 THE WIZ SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 27 VSC EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT PROGRAMS

OUR TEACHING PHILOSOPHY: We’ve witnessed firsthand what the creative process nurtures in children, teens, and all lifelong learners: • Excitement, enthusiasm, and openness to explore their own creativity • Critical-thinking and problem solving skills • Enthusiasm for teamwork • Empathy and support toward peers • Strength in their ability to listen and express themselves effectively • Healthy self-image and awareness Because it has such positive and far-reaching outcomes for our students, Virginia Stage Company’s education model emphasizes process over product. We believe that everyone will emerge from their time with our educational programs with skills that will serve them well in all areas of life.

BENEFITS FOR STUDENTS: Students enrolled in our education programs will: • develop leadership qualities • enhance communication skills • develop an appreciation for the creative process • learn to take ownership of their own ideas and concepts • increase their knowledge of theatre terms • develop greater confidence through the creative play experience • develop a spirit of curiosity • learn to develop and appreciate the value of kindness • develop or expand spatial awareness • use dramatic prompts to create imaginative movement • cooperate with others in group sessions • learn how to use their voices safely and effectively • learn how to use their bodies effectively with character development • work with peers to write scripts • explore characters and settings • rehearse in a positive, supportive environment • practice respectful critique of others’ work, and • put it all together to create original theatre for others.

For more information visit vastage.org/education.

28 THE WIZ 2016-2017 PROGRAMS Student Matinees: I Sing the Rising Sea, Oliver Twist, A Christmas Carol, A Streetcar Named Desire, and The Wiz • In-school touring productions: The Selfish Giant, A.O.K The ‘Acts of Kindness’ Game Show, & Meet Mark Twain • In-school residencies • VSC Family Saturdays • Masterclasses • After school residencies • Girl Scout Day • Black Light Puppet Theatre • Teacher | Student Nights • Urban Theater Project We can custom-design workshops to meet your specific lesson needs and SOL requirements: Careers in Theatre Arts, Improvisation, Stage Combat, Shakespeare for Young Actors, and Theatre Games to increase group cooperation are just a few of our many options.

Follow the Education Artists on Twitter @VSCEducates.

SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 29 30 THE WIZ SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 31 32 THE WIZ BOARD OF TRUSTEES

SARAH B. CLARKSON, M.D. ANN B. BROGAN President Vice President Strategic Planning, Secretary BARRY POLLARA COLIN BARTON Vice President Vice President Finance,Treasurer LYNN COBB CHRISTINA GOODE Vice President, Development Vice President, Development

Carole Aitken Steve Fuschetti Michael E. Askew Jan Goldrich Thomas M. Botts Verne’t D. Hatcher Xandra L. Burnette Rob Henson Barbara C. Carroll Jackie King Cathy Coleman Tyler Leinbach Lauren L. Conner Linda H. Lilly Audrey Douglas-Cooke Lin Miller Neil Daboul Scott F. Reed, MD Betty H. Edwards Audrey Settle Susan Einhorn Ann P. Stokes Leslie H. Friedman Eugene Winston

ADVISORY COUNCIL Robert E. Brown Carroll Godwin Frohman James Washington Philip E. Campbell Thomas G. Johnson, III Emily Washington Beth Diamonstein Charles V. McPhillips Lawrence E. Waters Marynell R. Gordon William L. Rueger Beth Williams Stephan H. Gordon John M. Ryan, Jr. Rolf A. Williams Henry U. Harris Nancy Ryan Arlene B. Wright Norman Hoffmann Edward W. Ware, III

PAST PRESIDENTS OF VIRGINIA STAGE COMPANY ROBERT E. BROWN, 1974-1981 FOUNDING PRESIDENT PAMELA D. ETHERIDGE, 1981-1983 MICHAEL B. DIVARIS, 1999-2001 STEPHEN C. LAMPL, 1984-1986 PHILIP E. CAMPBELL, 2001-2003 JOHN R. TURBYFIL, 1986-1988 CHARLES V. MCPHILLIPS, 2003-2005 NANCY MOORE STANLEY, 1988-1990 BARRY POLLARA, 2005-2007 DONALD E. CHAPMAN, 1990-1992 THOMAS M. BOTTS, 2007-2009 SIDNEY N. ASKEW, JR., 1992-1995 BETTY H. EDWARDS, 2009-2011 A. W. VANDERMEER, JR., 1995-1996 STEVE FUSCHETTI, 2011-2013 DENVER F. HICKS, 1996-1998 TYLER LEINBACH, 2013-2015 PATRICK M. BARBERICH, 1998-1999

SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 33 34 THE WIZ CORPORATE AND FOUNDATION SUPPORT

VIRGINIA STAGE COMPANY GRATEFULLY ACKNOWLEDGES THE LEADERSHIP AND SUPPORT OF OUR SPONSORS:

DIRECTOR’S CIRCLE

SPECIAL FUND #6

THE PATRICIA AND DOUGLAS PERRY FOUNDATION THE BATTEN EDUCATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT FUND OF THE HAMPTON ROADS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION THEATRE CIRCLE

SPECIAL FUND #4 LEADERSHIP CIRCLE

CHARITABLE FOUNDATION

FRANKLIN SOUTHAMPTON CHARITIES HELEN G. GIFFORD FOUNDATION

CENTER STAGE CIRCLE

NORFOLK SERTOMA E.K. SLOANE FUND OF THE HAMPTON ROADS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION THE JAMES PERKINS TRUST

SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 35 Proud supporter of the Arts

Parties of 4 to 400, your place or ours!

757-486-0035 [email protected] enjoybite.com

36 THE WIZ VSC STAFF

ARTISTIC LIGHTING Producing Artistic Director ...... Tom Quaintance Master Electrician ...... Akin Ritchie Associate Producer ...... Patrick Mullins Electrics Apprentice ...... Denisse Chavez Artistic Director Emeritus ...... Chris Hanna Resident Dramaturg ...... Kat Martin PROPERTIES Properties Manager ...... Samuel W. Flint BOX OFFICE Box Office Manager ...... Kristin Shapiro SCENERY Patron Services Coordinator ...... Roxanne Kehr Technical Director & Group Sales Coordinator ...... Kenya Battle Facilities Manager ...... Simon Levy Master Carpenter ...... Megan Navia COMMUNICATIONS Carpentry Interns ...... Adrienne Miranda Director of Marketing ...... Brad Tuggle Ed Hilton Graphic Designer & Social Media ..... Crystal Tuxhorn Marketing Associate ...... Connor Norton STAGE MANAGEMENT Photographer/AV Designer ...... Samuel W. Flint Production Stage Manager ..... Matthew G. Marholin COSTUMES Want to learn more about our Staff? Costume Shop Manager ...... Jeni Schaefer Cutter/Draper ...... Meg Murray Visit vastage.org/blog and read the Staff Wardrobe Intern ...... Brittany Lamb Spotlights posted throughout the season. DONOR RELATIONS Development Manager ...... Melissa Day EDUCATION & ENGAGEMENT Dir. of Education & Community Engagement ...... Ron Newman Education Coordinator ...... Emel Ertugrul Resident Theatre Artist ...... Ryan Clemens Resident Theatre Artist ...... Kat Martin Resident Theatre Artist, Playwright, & Tour Designer ...... Grace Davis Resident Theatre Artist ...... Jenny deJaager Education Intern ...... Kai Canu GENERAL ADMINISTRATION Production Manager ...... Carolyn Thatcher Accounting Manager ...... Karen Dzupinka Accountant ...... Cathi Brumfield-McGhee Company Manager ...... Connor Norton

SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 37

38 THE WIZ Peninsula Community Theatre presents:

An elegant farce

by Neil Simon

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SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 39 40 THE WIZ VSC SENIOR STAFF BIOS

TOM QUAINTANCE (Producing Artistic RON NEWMAN (Director of Education and Director) comes to Virginia Stage Company Community Engagement) has been a theatre from Cape Fear Regional Theatre (CFRT) where educator for nearly 40 years, and has made it he produced over 35 plays and directed the his life’s mission to create and foster innovative World Premiere of Downrange: Voices from cross curricular arts education programming. the Homefront, a play based on interviews with He holds an MS in Education from Old military spouses from Fort Bragg. At CFRT, Tom Dominion University and did his theatre also directed Henry V, , graduate studies at the University of Delaware Amadeus (with the Fayetteville Symphony and American University. His actual career path Orchestra), Spamalot, Return to the Forbidden began at the age of 5, designing and creating Planet, The Santaland Diaries, , neighborhood backyard plays with friends; The Little Prince, Pride & Prejudice, A Saturday mornings were all about reenacting Midsummer Night’s Dream (also with the FSO), ‘Our Gang’ productions and heroic adventures. Jesus Christ Superstar, On Golden Pond, Ron loves gardening, bon fires, sipping wine Othello, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, and on the dock, and collecting Disney. Ron has Hairspray. Tom is an Associate Artist at adapted and directed more than 30 classic PlayMakers Repertory Company in Chapel Hill children’s literary works for the stage including where he directed An Enemy of the People, Alice in Wonderland, The , The Shipwrecked! An Entertainment, and Pied Piper, Aesop’s Fables, The Adventures of Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby, and The Little Tom Sawyer, and The Selfish Giant. Aside from Prince. He also directed The Little Prince at the writing and directing he has performed in over 2007 Edinburgh Fringe Festival. As the founder fifty productions, including the East Coast tour of FreightTrain Shakespeare in Los Angeles, he of Marlo Thomas’ Free To Be...You and Me, and earned a Dramalogue Award for his direction as been seen locally with Virginia Musical of Pericles. Other Los Angeles credits range Theater, The Generic Theater, and in Virginia from King Lear to The Devil With Boobs. A Stage’s production of The Diary of Anne Frank. member of the Stage Directors and CAROLYN THATCHER (Production Choreographers Society, Tom is a graduate of Manager) is thrilled to conclude her ninth Wesleyan University (Middletown, CT) with a season at Virginia Stage Company. While a B.A. in Theatre and Economics, and the native Hoosier, she has made her home here University of California, MFA in Norfolk, Virginia. She has been known to directing program, where he was the assistant work for several venues and organizations in director on the original production of The the area such as the Virginia Arts Festival, The Who’s Tommy. Tom and his wife Wallis are the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, Little proud parents of Mireille Julia and Annika Theatre of Norfolk, and Stage Right Lighting as Christine. a freelance lighting technician and designer. MELISSA DAY (Development Manager) is She is excited to begin her tenure as Production excited to begin her second season at Virginia Manager for Virginia Stage Company and is Stage Company, where she started as the thankful to her family and the staff for their Development Associate and Capital Campaign continuing support. Coordinator and just recently transitioned into her new role as Development Manager. Before BRAD TUGGLE (Director of Marketing) working at Virginia Stage Company, she spent comes to Virginia Stage Company with 10 several years volunteer fundraising and event years of experience in theatre and arts coordinating. She has a Bachelor of Science in management. As a manager, he has done stints Social Science and Business Management, as with Yale Repertory Theatre, Virginia Rep, well as a Master of Science in Nonprofit SPARC and the I-Park Foundation, and has Management. When not at work, Melissa worked on multiple world premieres including enjoys spending time on fun activities with her Pop!, Compulsion and Austin’s Bridge. In the husband and their two sons.

(Continued on page 43)

SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 41 It’s time for some Southern Charmatat thethe SpringSpring Plant SaleSale

DON’T MISS IT! Mother’s Day Weekend Fri, Sat, Sun • May 12, 13, 14 10am-5pm

6700 Azalea Garden Road Norfolk, VA 23518 757-441-5830 IdigNBG.org 42 THE WIZ VSC SENIOR STAFF BIOS (CONTINUED) room, Brad most frequently works as a director, but has also acted, stage managed, designed lights, and written for more than a dozen companies. He currently serves on the WHRO Emerging Leaders Board, Norfolk’s Downtown 100, and on the board of Puppets Off Broad Street in Richmond.

SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 43 CONTRIBUTORS

DIRECTOR’S CIRCLE ($50,000+) Penny & Peter Meredith Mr. & Mrs. Neil A. Daboul Bess Decker Businesses & Foundations Businesses & Foundations Tom Nicholson & Christie Dixon Batten Educational Achievement Fund Agena Foundation Dianne Epplein & John Patton of the Hampton Roads Community Children's Hospital of the King's Maria T. & Brian H. Fallin Daughters Mrs. Juanita G. Felton Foundation Fannie, Milton and Leslie Friedman Business Consortium Mrs. Harry Fleder Foundation Mr. & Mrs. David C. Fuller for Arts Support Franklin Southampton Charities Ted W. Gardner Dollar Tree Stores, Inc. Helen G. Gifford Foundation Dennis & Margaret Gartman Anonymous Foundation of the Barbara Gornto Hampton Roads Community CENTER STAGE ($5,000+) Paul & Carolyn Gottlieb Foundation Jacquelyn Hearst Norfolk Southern Individuals Susan & Paul Hirschbiel Atlantic Dominion Distributors/ Colin Barton Martha G. Hortenstine David R. Goode Charitable Lead Michael & Gene Hubbard Hoffman Beverages Annuity Trust Ms. Gayle Johnson Bank of America Mr. Leslie H. Friedman Mrs. June-Marie Lam Patricia and Douglas Perry Eleanor & Sandy Harris Gill & Stephen Leaman Foundation Norman & Sue Hoffman H. L. & Jane Marks, Ph.D. Birdsong Corporation Ted Kaufman Estate of Elizabeth A. Marshall Dixon Hughes Goodman Tyler & Sunshine Leinbach RADM Peter Marshall & Diane Kaufman & Canoles Ernest & Etta Lendman Horowitz Charles & Bonnie Moorman Dr. & Mrs. Edward Lilly Virginia Natural Gas, INC. Susanne Mozley & Randy Wisswell Peter & Courtney Martone Wells Fargo Foundation C. Arthur & Shirley Robinson Mr. & Mrs. Colin M. McKinnon Wilbanks, Smith and Thomas Louis & Prudence Ryan Oriana McKinnon Asset Management, LLC Anthony Vittone Richard Miller Willcox & Savage, P.C. Mr. & Mrs. W Shep Miller III Businesses & Foundations Robert L. Mills Davenport & Company, LLC Chesapeake Fine Arts Commission The Dragas Companies W. Reynolds & Diane J.A. Monach LifeNet Health James Dean Perry Fulton Bank Newport News Arts Commission Charles & Lucy Quaintance Haynes Furniture Company, INC Portsmouth Museum & Fine Arts Mr. & Mrs. Richard V. Reynolds O’Connor Brewing Company Commission Meredith & Cindy Rose Palladium Registered Investment Theater Communications Group Francie & Brett Siegfried Advisors Sertoma Club of Norfolk CAPT & Mrs. Douglas M. Simon Virginia Beach Arts and Humanities Mr. & Mrs. George Staudter Southeast Virginia Community Commission Foundation Mr. Lawrence L. Steingold Virginia Stage Associates Franklin and Ilene Swartz Southern Bank Wells Fargo Foundation Alf & Marianne Tuggle The Virginian-Pilot John & Kate Turbyfill Williams Mullen WELLS SOCIETY ($2,500+) Jane & Larry Waters Grow Bruce & Holly Weber Hunton & Williams Individuals Mr. & Mrs. Samuel J. Webster City of Norfolk Patrick & Ann Brogan Doug & Janis Wood The Goode Family Foundation Brent & Xandra Burnette Deborah & John Wyld Jim & Barbara Carroll The Hampton Roads Community Cathy Coleman Businesses & Foundations Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Alexander Conner The Ensemble Studio Theatre/Alfred P. Harbor Group Audrey Douglas-Cooke Sloan Foundation City of Norfolk Commission on the Betty Harmon Edwards Visualzen Arts & Humanities Steve & Nancy Fuschetti Morgan Stanley Lawrence & Jan Goldrich Norfolk Rotary Club Norfolk Southern Foundation Rouse-Bottom Foundation Patricia & Douglas Perry Foundation Christina Goode Franklin L. Greene, Jr. Southeast Virginia Community Virginia Commission for the Arts Verne’t Hatcher Foundation James & Rachel Jiral Tidewater Jewish Foundation THEATRE CIRCLE ($25,000+) Robert & Kristi Jones Warden Family Foundation Dr. & Mrs. Donald Lipskis Individuals The Honorable & Mrs. Norman Olitsky ENSEMBLE ($500+) Robert Brown Mr. Kevin & Dr. Giniene Pirkle Special Fund #4 of the Hampton Drs. Lelia & Greg Reck, Ph.D. Individuals Roads Community Foundation Drs. Scott & Sharon Reed Helen & Warren Aleck Barry & Peggy Pollara Lynn Cobb & Warren Richard Ms. Elena Baum John & Audrey Settle Donna Bausch Businesses & Foundations Mr. & Mrs. John S. Shannon Mr. William C. Bell The Capital Group Companies Eugene & Brenda Winston Anonymous PATRON ($1,000+) Bruce T. & Sarah Bishop Charitable Foundation Dr. & Mrs. John T. Bowers III Individuals Jared & Whitney Brooks LEADERSHIP CIRCLE MD Gerard and Linda Brunick ($10,000+) Mike & Michelle Askew Dr. James L. Cox, Jr. George & Anne Aspatore Greg & Carie Cutter Individuals Clay H. Barr In memory of Susie Davis Thomas & Nancy Botts Dr. & Mrs. J. Sumner & Susan Bell Scott & Christinia Duncan David & Susan Goode Norman & Bernadette Carrick Marty Einhorn, In Honor of Susan Drs. Sarah B. Clarkson & John Herre Leroy & Cora Collins Einhorn 44 THE WIZ CONTRIBUTORS

Mr. & Mrs. Joel & Gail Flax Teresa L. Williams Ina Levy Carroll G. Frohman Ken & Melanie Wills Mr. and Mrs. Duane Lougee In Honor of Joan M. Geller Dr. Holly Puritz & Dr. Stephen James & Shelley Marrion Harold Goode Wohlgemuth Mr & Mrs. William A. Messner Stephan & Marynell Gordon Kenneth and Linda Woods Jonathan Miller & Barbara Chapman John F. Griffing Byron & Chris Work Mr. & Mrs. Ray Moses Dwight & Susan Handforth Carol Westerfield Naumann Henry and Mary Jeanne Harris Businesses & Foundations Mrs. Daryl Nemo Charitable Trust Alan & Esther Fleder Foundation Dr. & Mrs. Gunther Oberlechner Caroline Herre Mr. & Mrs. Wayne and Marie Old Denver F. Hicks ($250+) Vincent & Patricia Olivieri Patty & Tom Hostutler Alfred Ponce & Alice Clay T. Hubbard & Christy Hamlin Individuals Mrs. Robin N. Reeves H. Blount Hunter III Leonette & Beryl Adler Iva Robinett Dr. & Mrs. Bernard Jamison John & Gladys Allen Iva & Bill Robinett Heather Jordan June & Richard Austin Ms. Elizabeth Ross Kathy & Ed Keil Stanley G. Barr, Jr Dennis & Susie Rowley Amanda M. Loessin Meg & Mickey Bisese Stanley & Linda Samuels James & Kathryn Markey Ronald L. & Barbara H. Buck Tyler & Mary Beth Sherwin Eleanor J. Marshall Dr. Jeanne Burger Sandra & Bradley Simpson Dr. & Mrs. Mayes D. Mathews Elisabeth & Charles Burgess Christopher & Angela Sinesi Drs. Kurt & Carol McCammon Charlotte & Joe Carriker Larry & Greta Stallings Steven & Karen McCurdy Andrea S. Clontz Gus & Janet Stuhlreyer Hope Mihalap Raymond DeFrank Dr. Jane Sullivan Siobhan Miller John & Carol Duckett Dora Lee Taylor & Jeffry Davidson Sale & Susan Oller Lois & Barry Einhorn Bill & Neola Waller Richard G. Parise Dr. Ed George Dr. & Mrs. W.B. Warden Harry & Edrie Pfeiffer Mr. & Mrs. Edward J. Grant Eleanor & Henry Watts Dr. & Mrs. Ivan R. Schiff Bill & Janice Gregory Edward & Janus Weisberg Dr. & Mrs. Robert Seeherman In Memory of Dr. William F. Hale Mrs. Carol A. Winarski Foy Shaw Richard & Leslie Hildreth Win & Jane Short Adrienne & John Hilt Businesses & Foundations Dr. and Mrs. Michael Shroyer Dr. & Mrs. Edwin B. Hodge York County Arts Commission Conrad & Anne Shumadine Judy Homsher Carroll & Jackie Smith Dr. Sylvia C. Hudgins David & Becky Sterling Hon. & Mrs. Marc Jacobson Brad & Suzanne Stillman Constance and Calvin Jones in Please note this listing reflects gifts of $250 Pat & Mary Ann Thomas memory of Cheryl Lyall or more between July 1, 2016 and March James & Emily Washington Farouk & Deborah Kassir 23, 2017 . If there are any errors in your William & Christine Westendorf Doris & Virgil Kocher listing or to donate, please Melissa Clyde Wilcox In Memory of Karen Stanley & Jean Lamkin Day at 757.627.6988x315 or go to vastage. Lousie Wilcox Nancy Levin org/donate.

SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 45 Arts.Re-imagined.

Pacesetter Dollar Tree Stores, Inc. Foundation (anonymous) Hampton Roads Community Foundation Norfolk Southern Foundation

Champion Atlantic Dominion Distributors /Hoffman Beverage Bank of America Patricia & Douglas Perry Foundation

Leader Birdsong Corporation Dixon Hughes Goodman Kaufman & Canoles Virginia Natural Gas, Inc Wells Fargo Foundation Wilbanks, Smith & Thomas Asset Management, LLC Willcox & Savage, P. C. Art takes many forms. Our support helps Advocate Davenport & Company LLC produce this event, and The Dragas Companies that’s only part of the Fulton Bank story. Through project Haynes Furniture Co, Inc. grants and community Palladium Registered involvement, we Investment Advisors continue to help O’Connor Brewing Company create and perpetuate Southeast Virginia Community Foundation a rich and varied arts Southern Bank scene for the future. The Virginian-Pilot Join us. Call us at Williams Mullen 757-383-6047 or visit Arts Ally level contributors www.bcartsupport.org. at www.bcartsupport.org

46 THE WIZ SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 47 48 THE WIZ VIRGINIA STAGE ASSOCIATES

Virginia Stage Associates provides 2016–2017 EXECUTIVE BOARD volunteer support to Virginia Stage in Carole Aitken ...... President many ways: Dean Perry ...... President Elect Lar Stampe ...... Vice President USHERING Janet Kane ...... Treasurer Host public performances and student Sue Lonigan ...... Secretary matinees, assist patrons with seating. Lorenz Connelly ...... Member at Large

HOSPITALITY ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP Prepare matinee meals and potluck meals (Contribution covers FY July 1-June 30) for cast and crew. Individual Membership $25 Family Membership $40 SPECIAL EVENTS (two or more in the same household) Assist with a variety of projects designed to Student Membership $15 raise funds for Virginia Stage Company. (high school or college)

COMMUNITY EVENTS If joining January 1, 2017 or after, membership Raise public awareness of Virginia Stage donations are half the above amount, and Company at art shows and other events. will cover January 1-June 30, 2017. The new membership year begins July 1, 2017. For more information, please call Carole Aitken at (757) 474-1822 or WHAT PART WOULD YOU LIKE TO PLAY? email [email protected].

Best wishes for a successful 38th Season!

Hampton Roads Pride unites the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) and allied communities in support of inclusion, dignity and equality of all people. HAMPTONROADSPRIDE.ORG HRPRIDE @HRPRIDEVA HAMPTONROADSPRIDE #HRPRIDE

SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 49 50 THE WIZ 14K rose and yellow gold moonstone and ruby ear clips Retro period [circa 1950s] from Hardys estate collection embracing the art of jewelry for 170 years

18K yellow gold moonstone, citrine and fordite brooch Hardy’s collaboration with jewelry designer Alishan

HARDY / S 5th generation 600 22nd St Virginia Beach TheArtofJewelry.com SEASON 38 | 2016 - 2017 51 Proud to support the arts.

52 THE WIZ