AMERICAN ROOTS
The Gospel experience Featuring Key Chorale Chamber SingerS and WeStCoaSt blaCK theatre troupe key chorale Sarasota’s Symphonic Chorus Joseph Caulkins, Artistic Director nate JaCobS, FounDer & artiStiC DireCtor keychorale.org westcoastblacktheatre.org 941-921-4845 941-366-1505 Welcome to American Roots: The Gospel Experience (Streaming Edition) We were blessed to come together at three churches in October 2019 to share this amazing music. Now we’re pleased to present a video version, recorded by Bill Wagy Productions at St. Boniface Episcopal Church. Here is the program from those performances. We thank our generous original sponsors who made these concerts possible. And we thank YOU for supporting us with your ticket to the streaming video. Enjoy!
Oh Happy Day Sponsors $2,500 First United Methodist Church Venue Sponsor:
Opening Night Reception Sponsors: Shelley & Sy Goldblatt
St. Boniface Venue Sponsors: Phil Baker and Steve Graham
Move On Up a Little Higher Sponsors $1,500 Venice Presbyterian Church Venue Sponsors: Stu and Cindy Bischoff
Amazing Grace Sponsors $500 Anonymous The Huisking Family Fund at the Community Foundation of Sarasota County Brock & Julie Leach
Cover photo by Sorcha Augustine 2 Welcome Messages
What an experience American Roots: The Gospel Experience has been for Key Chorale. Being immersed in this powerful genre of music is one thing – but to work with performers who epitomize this artform, who feel this music from their head to their toes – well that has been unforgettable.
Collaborating with Nate Jacobs and Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe has been an experience rich in rewards. Through Nate’s guidance, we have gained a new appreciation and understanding of this American art form, music that came out of suffering and slavery, but yet is rooted in joyful praise and steadfast faith. Choirs all over the world love to perform spirituals and gospel music. I think it is because this music gets inside of you and you are forever changed.
That is what I hope for you today, that this music finds its way into your heart and leaves you forever changed. I know it has for our singers and myself. We are grateful for this vibrant partnership between Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe and Key Chorale and for the opportunity to share what we love with all of you!
— Joseph Caulkins Artistic Director Key Chorale
It’s a blessing for our singers and musicians to work with Joseph Caulkins and the Key Chorale Chamber Singers on this program showcasing the black gospel tradition. We’re especially delighted to perform these songs in churches — where this music was born.
Like generations of African Americans before me, I grew up with this music that lifted our ancestors up from the sorrows of slavery and segregation to express their deep joy about God’s “amazing grace.”
In the summer of 2016 at WBTT, I staged How I Got Over — a tribute to gospel great Mahalia Jackson and other artists of the genre. We’ll be performing many of the songs from that show, along with some special selections Joseph and his colleagues brought to the table. Regardless of your background, I’m sure you’ll recognize many of these songs and perhaps discover some new favorites.
I hope you’ll be inspired when you hear this music and watch the spirit move our dancers. Thank you, Key Chorale, for inviting us to share these soulful songs with you and our wonderful community!
— Nate Jacobs Founder and Artistic Director Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe
3 MISSION STATEMENT: Key Chorale, the Suncoast’s premier symphonic chorus, is dedicated to transforming lives through innovative programming, artistic excellence, educational outreach and service to the community. VISION STATEMENT: A Suncoast community that is engaged and enriched by the power of our music and outreach.
Board of Directors Larry Patton, Esq., President Bob Wennberg, Vice President Lydia Johnston, Secretary John Daniels, Treasurer Elizabeth Bryan Alice Byrne Doug Kapp Lee Linkous Carol Myers Judith Plerhoples
Artistic Team Joseph Caulkins, Artistic Director Jamal Sarikoki, Associate Conductor Nancy Yost Olson, Accompanist
Administrative Team Ellen VanDolah, Administrative Coordinator Kay Semrod, Finance and Grants Manager Johnette Cappadona, Director of Community Engagement Trish Ivey, Marketing Manager Joseph Waldron, Artistic Administrator Richard Storm, Executive Director Emeritus
4 Premieres Friday, October 30th • 7:30 PM Our VIRTUAL season opener brings us together to experience the healing and hope of music. The Chamber Singers present an inspirational program of favorites, uplifting spirituals, and music that celebrates the resiliency of the human spirit.
Weekly beginning Thursday, September 24 • 2 PM Online choral rehearsals aren’t just for our local singers, but can be experienced by anyone, anywhere in the country through our YouTube Channel. key Season subscriptions on sale now! chorale Sarasota’s Symphonic Chorus Joseph Caulkins, Artistic Director 941.921.4845 KeyChorale.org
5 About Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe is proudly celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2019-2020. Its mission is to produce professional theater that promotes and celebrates the African-American experience, to attract diverse audiences, to support and develop African- American artists, and to build the self-esteem of African-American youth.
WBTT Board of Trustees Marian Moss, Chairman Cheryl Anderson, Treasurer Alan Kurland, Vice Chairman Mike Rosario, Secretary
Marvin Albert Sy Goldblatt Howard Millman Ali Bahaj Dr. Jaih Jackson Dr. Randall Morgan Chris Caswell, Esq. Doris Johnson Dona Scott Kitty Cranor Penelope Kingman Eva T. Slane Michael Gardiner Margie Nellum Lee Lois Watson Dr. John Maupin
Honorary Trustees: June Gordon, Mary Ann Robinson Ambassadors: Christine Jennings and Jackie Woods Founder and Artistic Director: Nate Jacobs Executive Director: Julie Leach
WBTT Team for American Roots: The Gospel Experience Properties Designer...... Annette Breazeale Music Director/Production Manager...... James E. “Jay” Dodge II Marketing and Communications Director...... Scott Ferguson Development Director...... Debra Flynt-Garrett Choreographer...... Donald Frison Finance Manager...... Robert Grant Media Relations...... Sharon Kunkel, Wordslinger Marketing & PR House Manager...... Myllanna McKinnon Box Office Manager...... Eleanor Miller Production Stage Manager...... Juanita Munford Graphic Design...... Paula Murray, Artefact Design Wardrobe Manager/Stage Hand...... Adrienne Pitts Associate Managing Director...... Travis Ray Sound Engineer...... Patrick Russini Videographer...... Bill Wagy 6 We hope you enjoy this encore presentation of American Roots: The Gospel Experience. In the coming months we will return to live shows outdoors, and in our theatre when it is safe to do so. We also plan to continue creative collaborations, like this one with Key Chorale and Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, that enrich our community with cross-cultural experiences and shared moments of joy, inspiration and a deeper understanding of each other. Thank you for being a loyal patron of our live and recorded performances. For the latest news about our upcoming events, visit us at westcoastblacktheatre.org. We look forward to seeing you in person again soon!
PHOTO BY EVAN SIGMUND
6 7 American Roots: The Gospel Experience
ACT ONE
I’ve Been Buked and I’ve Been Scorned (Traditional)...... Elaine & Company
My Soul’s Been Anchored in the Lord (Arr. M. Hogan) ...... Key Chorale Chamber Singers
Come Sunday Morning (Traditional)...... Tarra & Company
Tell It, Sing It, Shout It (J. Rowe-J. Walbert)...... Elaine & Company
Come On Children, Let’s Sing (H.E. Smith)...... Company
Stop, Take a Little Time to Pray (D. L. Coats)...... Tarra, Ariel & Company
Didn’t it Rain, Children (R. Martin)...... Elaine, Amy & Company
Elijah Rock (J. Hairston)...... Elaine & Company
Oh Mary Don’t You Weep (Traditional)...... Syreeta & Company
He Never Said a Mumblin’ Word (Arr. M. Hogan) ...... Jamal
City Called Heaven (Traditional, Arr. J. Poelinitz)...... Amy & Chamber Singers
O! What a Beautiful City (Traditional, Arr. S. Kirchner)...... Chamber Singers
Twelve Gates to the City (Traditional)...... Company
Roll Jordan Roll (C. Wesley)...... Syreeta & Company
Trouble of the World (Traditional)...... Tarra
Something Got a Hold of Me (J. Cleveland)...... Ariel & Company
You Must Be Born Again (S. Hamblen)...... Elaine
In That Great Gettin’ Up Morning (M. Jackson)...... Tarra & Company
Travelin’ Shoes (Traditional)...... Tarra & Company
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot (Traditional)...... Elaine & Company
Let Me Ride (Traditional)...... Company
8 Created and Adapted by Nate Jacobs Directed by Nate Jacobs & Joseph Caulkins
ACT TWO
Walk Together Children (Arr. M. Hogan)...... Jamal
Wade in the Water (Arr. M. Hogan)...... Amy & Chamber Singers
That’s Enough For Me (Traditional)...... Ariel, Elaine, Syreeta, Tara
Down by the Riverside (Traditional)...... Elaine & Company
God Put a Rainbow in the Sky (M. Jackson)...... Elaine, Jai & Company
When the Saints Go Marching In (Traditional)...... Tarra & Company
Precious Lord, Take My Hand (T. A. Dorsey)...... Jamal, Tarra & Company
What a Friend We Have in Jesus (J. Wilson)...... Elaine
How Great Thou Art (S. Hine)...... Ariel & Company
His Eye is on the Sparrow (C. D. Martin-C. Gabriel)...... Syreeta
Amazing Grace (Words: J. Newton – Music: Traditional)...Amy, Tarra & Company
He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands (Traditional)...... Jai & Company
Surely God is Able (W. H. Brewster)...... Ariel, Syreeta, Tarra, Elaine & Company
Move On Up a Little Higher (W. H. Brewster)...... Elaine & Company
Oh Happy Day (E. Hawkins)...... Nate Jacobs & Company
— THERE WILL BE ONE 15-MINUTE INTERMISSION —
8 9 Thanks to Our Key Chorale Chamber Singers Preferred Seat Patrons American Roots: The Gospel Experience October 18, 19 & 26, 2019
Sponsors as of October 8
Katrina Archer Harry Leopold Sara Arthur Margo Light Ali & Gloria Bahaj Tom & Diane Mahan Elizabeth Bergmann Deborah Mahony Susan Brainerd & Alan Quinby Stephen Meuler Murray Bring & Kay Delaney George & Janet Miles Michael Brooks Dr. Randall & Karen Morgan Miles & Barbara Capron Marian Moss Donald Clem Bob & Andi Munzer Tom & Margaret Costello Carol Myers Janet Davis Judith Parker Gary Dickerson Larry Patton Michael & Deborah Dyer Rosalie Peirce Don & Jane Forgey Richard Pereira Doug & Helen Francis Laurel Phillips Paul & Kim Freiwald Melaura Quinlivan Mary Gallick Mona Rankin Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe Performers Michael & Karen Gardiner Sam & Dona Scott John Green Eva Slane Ann Gundersheimer Charlie Ann Syprett Kathie Hayes Harry And Gail Thompson Judith Holmes Joel & Phyllis Tropp Donald & Doris Johnson Dr. Bernard & Lois Watson Irene Kauffman Lois Weeks David & Ellie Kaufman William Wendling Robin Klein-Strauss Carol White & Larry Bold Lynne Koy Richard White Lenny & Susan Landau
10 Thanks to Our Key Chorale Chamber Singers Preferred Seat Patrons Nancy Yost Olson - Accompanist Soprano Alto Angela Burns Charissa Alters Michelle Caulkins Jessica Carrier Mae Davis + Amy Connours + Patti Eastep Michelle Jessogne Lisa Fudge-Schustik Jody Kienzler Kumiko Hampton Lynne Lash Lorraine Murphy Cecilia McEnaney Debbie Rostad + Ellen VanDolah + Genna Sarikoki + Catherine Vernon
Tenor Bass Rob Davis Bob Barr + Robert Henry Allen Batchelder Daniel Michener Brice Jones Stephen Remis Frank Roxby Kay Semrod Jamal Sarikoki Zac Stockman + Mark Wagstrom Alexander Zickafoose Joseph Waldron Bob Wennberg +
Bold = Section Leader + Core Singer
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe Performers
Narrator Dancers Musicians Earley Dean Donald Frison James E. “Jay” Dodge II, (Choreographer/Dancer) WBTT Music Director/Bass Singers Derric Gobourne Jr. Todd Bellamy, Keyboards Chakara Rosa Syreeta S. Banks Brennan Stylez, Auxiliary Keys Joshua Thompson Ariel Blue John Walker, Drums Nate Jacobs Tarra Conner jones Elaine Mayo Costumes Gentlemen’s bow ties Michael Mendez Raleigh Mosely II Adrienne Pitts Travis Ray, Dapper Bowtique Jai Shanae Mydra McKinnon
10 11 Joseph Caulkins Key Chorale Artistic Director
Adventurous is a fitting descriptor for Joseph Caulkins. It has been used to describe his reputation for bold programming, world premieres and unique collaborations on the conductor’s podium, to his knack for vibrant storytelling as a freelance writer and music critic, to his pursuits as an experienced alpinist. These diverse interests shape the quality of his music making, writing, climbing and life. Whether it be a professional orchestra, singers, dancers, high school students, circus artists, Parkinson’s patients, or his own symphonic chorus Key Chorale, he is fueled by bringing out the best in everyone. For the past 12 seasons as Artistic Director, Joseph Caulkins has consistently delivered innovative concert experiences. His performances of new and rarely heard works in styles as diverse as masterworks, pops, contemporary, Baroque – even ballet – has become his trademark. His passion for education and community outreach has shaped much of the chorale’s programming and mission during his tenure.
Nate Jacobs WBTT Founder/Artistic Director
An actor, singer, comedian, playwright, composer and director, Nate has created both original and adapted works that have won acclaim from critics and the public, including Soul Man, Marvin Gaye: Prince of Soul, Love Sung in the Key of Aretha, How I Got Over: A Gospel Musical, and many more. Nate has trained and mentored youth in the performing arts for over 30 years. As a result of Nate’s outstanding contributions to young people, the Sarasota County NAACP Chapter Youth Council recognized him as one of its 2012 Men of Valor. In 2013, he was inducted into the Community Video Archives Hall of Fame. In 2015, Nate was recognized as a “Champion of Diversity” for the arts at Biz(941) and La Guia magazines’ Unity Awards Luncheon. Nate was honored with the prestigious Larry Leon Hamlin Producer Award during the 2015 National Black Theatre Festival in Winston-Salem, North Carolina “for his contributions to Black theatre specifically and American theatre in general.” In 2017, he was named a Goodwill Manasota Ambassador of the Year. In October 2018, Nate received the Arts Leadership Award for Artistic Achievement from the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County. In 2019 he brought Soul Man to the National Black Theatre Festival — WBTT’s fourth appearance there.
12 Jamal Sarikoki Key Chorale Associate Conductor/Bass Section Leader Conductor, singer, organist, and minister, Jamal Sarikoki can be found wearing any number of hats in a given day. Whether he is found in a sanctuary or performing hall, Jamal strives for excellence in all aspects of his performing. Jamal’s love of music began at age 5, when his mother enrolled him in the violin and viola program at Sherwood Conservatory in Chicago, Illinois. Jamal received his first conducting position at age 16 and has conducted ever since. Mr. Sarikoki currently serves as Minister of Music and Worship at Venice Presbyterian Church and is also the Artistic Director of the Venice Community Concert Series; he enjoys planning ambitious programing and brings in artists from across North America to perform for our community.
James E. “Jay” Dodge II WBTT Music Director/Bass Guitarist
Jay has served as WBTT’s Production Manager and Resident Music Director for over 10 years. He began playing the bass at age 13 and through the years has traveled with the renowned Westcoast Gospel Chorus of Florida and The HLP Love Campaign, touring the U.S., Europe, Africa and the Caribbean, and performing a holiday show at the White House. Jay has directed several band ensembles and accompanied many singers with his smooth melodic bass playing. Jay is a producer, composer, arranger, songwriter and loving husband to his wife Renae and father to his two boys, Jay and Kai.
Donald Frison WBTT Choreographer/Dancer
Donald has been a choreographer, singer, dancer and actor for more than 25 years. His performances with WBTT include Raisin, Sophisticated Ladies, Five Guys Named Moe, Ain’t Misbehaving, It Ain’t Nothing but the Blues, Bubbling Brown Sugar, and In the Heights. Donald’s other performance credits include Cats, Dreamgirls, All Shook Up, Ragtime and many more. As Resident Choreographer for WBTT, his credits include Marvin Gaye: Prince of Soul, Bubbling Brown Sugar, Broadway In Black, Black Nativity, Soul Man and How I Got Over: A Tribute to Mahalia Jackson. “I want to thank God for blessing me with such a wonderful gift, without Him it wouldn’t be possible. May God bless all of you!” 12 13 Nancy Yost Key Chorale Accompanist
Nancy spent more than 32 years as a choral conductor, church organist, and recitalist in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Minnesota. She is a graduate of Westminster Choir College (now part of Rider University) where she majored in Organ Performance and sang in their Symphonic Choir. She has been playing piano since the age of two. Nancy is in her 11th season as rehearsal and performance accompanist for Key Chorale. She has accompanied the Chorale on two European tours and at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington, D.C. and with them recorded two CDs, taped a documentary and premiered many new choral works. Nancy has served three terms with Key Chorale’s Board of Directors and is a former singing member and Soprano Section Leader of the organization. Syreeta S. Banks Syreeta Banks is an accomplished singer/actress from Sarasota who developed her love for performing as a small child singing in her great grandparents’ church choir and watching her mother perform in many local theatre productions. She appeared with Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe in 2019 in Love Sung in the Key of Aretha, The Amen Corner, 2018 in Black Nativity, and 2017 in Broadway in Black and Girl Groups: The ‘60s Explosion. Although she earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Florida A&M University, Syreeta chose to pursue her dream of becoming a professional singer/actress. “To God be the glory for all the things He has done!”
Ariel Blue Ariel Blue is a well-known troupe member who was recently seen at WBTT in The Amen Corner, Marvin Gaye: Prince of Soul, Rockin’ Down Fairytale Lane, Dreamgirls and Soul Man (including its staging at the National Black Theatre Festival this summer). She has starred in her one-woman show, The Power of the Voice. Ariel has worked consistently with WBTT since her breakout role in Ain’t Misbehavin’ in 2010. Other memorable shows at WBTT and other theatres include Little Shop of Horrors, Avenue Q, The Wiz, It Ain’t Nothing But the Blues, All Shook Up, Disenchanted, Love Sung in the Key of Aretha, and Beehive: The Musical. She has performed as a vocalist in the Connelli Circus in Switzerland and with the FST Improv. She works full-time at WBTT as Development and Artist Relations Associate. 14 Amy Jo Connours Mezzo Soprano Amy Jo Connours is a prominent soloist and is active in many of Sarasota’s finest organizations. She is a Core Singer and frequent soloist with Key Chorale, the Suncoast’s premier symphonic chorus, and also the alto lead for Choral Artists of Sarasota. She is a frequent guest artist for the Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota, has toured through Europe in Spain, Ireland and Scotland, the Baltic States and sang down the Blue Danube in Europe during May 2019. She holds a B.A. in Music from FSU, and also plays viola. An accomplished Oratorio singer, she easily crosses over from Baroque counter tenor sounds to perform heartfelt Gospel and the Blues. Ms. Connours began her career with Mozart’s The Magic Flute and has amassed an eclectic repertoire that features her silky mezzo tones which cross over multiple genres from opera, oratorios and the classics, to jazz and contemporary composers.
Earley Dean Earley Dean (Narrator) has been performing since the age of 5 through high school and at Florida A&M University. Involved with WBTT since 2003, Earley has appeared in many shows and has had featured roles in Black Nativity, Raisin, Rockin’ Down Fairytale Lane, Purlie, Little Shop of Horrors, The Color Purple, How I Got Over and The Piano Lesson. He produced and starred in two WBTT Young Artist showcases, No Exit and Happy Birthday, Jethro Jenkins. He has also been a cast member in a variety of productions in theaters around the country, including, most recently, Dreamgirls and The Mountaintop at Short North Stage Theatre in Columbus, Ohio.
Tarra Conner jones Tarra Conner jones is best known for her powerhouse voice and captivating presence. Her appearances include Black Nativity at WBTT (Archangel Gabriel) Chicago: The Musical (Matron Morton), Ain’t Misbehavin (Nell), Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (Ma Rainey), The Color Purple (Sofia/Church Lady Darlene),The Wiz (Evilene), Dreamgirls (Effie),Shrek the Musical (Dragon, Mama Ogre/Bear), and Here Is Love (an original work showcased in WBTT’s Young Artist Program). She dedicates every performance to the memory of her mother, Ms. Chonita G. Conner, who cheers for her girl from the wings of heaven. 14 15 Elaine Mayo Elaine Mayo made her debut performance with Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe in How I Got Over in 2016. She most recently appeared at WBTT in 2018 in The Amen Corner, also serving as the music director for that show. At the tender age of 10, she began singing gospel music with her family, the Mayo Singers. Her professional career began with the Westcoast Gospel Chorus of Florida under the direction of Dr. Henry Porter. Performing both as background singer and a powerful soloist with a commanding voice, she toured the U.S., performed on television, and sang on several records. Elaine brings to the stage passion, experience, and a soulful style of her own that captivates audiences with her silky, melodic contralto voice.
Raleigh Mosely II Raleigh Mosely II has appeared at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe in Soul Man and at WBTT’s staging of the show at the National Black Theatre Festival this summer, In the Heights and other productions. He made his WBTT debut in 2017 in Broadway in Black. Originally from Miami, he currently resides in Orlando, where he earned his BFA in musical theatre from the University of Central Florida. His other theatre credits include In the Heights (Orlando Shakes), Jesus for the People: Our Passover Lamb, Spunk and the Harlem Literati, Hair, Ragtime, Oklahoma and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Raleigh thanks everyone for their continued love, support and guidance. “You can win as long as you keep your head to the sky.” Peace and Light.
Jai Shanae Jai Shanae is a multitalented artist with a love of theater, music, and various forms of art. She appeared in WBTT’s Love Sung in the Key of Aretha, Marvin Gaye: Prince of Soul and The Amen Corner in 2018-19, in Rockin’ Down Fairytale Lane in the summer of 2018, and in the 2014 production of Marvin Gaye: Prince of Soul. Other performances include The Last Days of Judas Iscariot (Jesus), Voodoo Macbeth (Witch) and the world premiere of Keesha/Carpenter. Born and raised in Tampa, Jai has had a passion for singing, dancing and creative design since her early childhood. She has been fortunate to share her gifts on local and state venues through church, film, music production, modeling, and engaging poetic performances. She studied music production at Full Sail University in Orlando. 16 Congratulations ! For over 30 great years of bringing beautiful voices to Sarasota
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