Digital programs for events at Wharton Center for Performing Arts. 

Digital Programs

- Jeffrey Seller
- Sander Jacobs
- Jill Furman

and

The Public Theater

present

# **HAMILTON**

Book, Music and Lyrics by

## Lin-Manuel Miranda

Inspired by the book *Alexander Hamilton* by\
Ron Chernow

with

1. Tyler Fauntleroy
2. Marja Harmon
3. Nathan Haydel

- Jared Howelton 
- Jimmie “JJ” Jeter 
- Lauren Mariasoosay 

1. Justin Matthew Sargent 
2. Lily Soto 
3. Kai Thomani Tshikosi 
4. A.D. Weaver

and

- Aaron J. Albano
- Miriam Ali
- Taylor Broadard
- Arjaye Christina
- Phillip Deceus
- Alex Dreschke
- Elvie Ellis
- Lili Froehlich
- Lexi Garcia
- Jorge Guerra
- Sabrina Harrison
- Auston Henderson
- Nathanael Hirst
- Amanda Simone Lee
- Ashley Merritt
- Hosea Mundi
- Kevin Murakami
- Michael Natt
- Desmond Nunn
- Alexandrea Reynolds
- Bella Rusli
- Avery Sobczak
- Daniel Thimm

&nbsp;

- Scenic Design\
David Korins	
- Costume Design\
Paul Tazewell	
- Lighting Design\
Howell Binkley
- Sound Design\
Nevin Steinberg
- Hair & Wig Design\
Charles G. LaPointe
- Arrangements\
Alex Lacamoire\
Lin-Manuel Miranda
- Music Coordinators\
Michael Keller\
Michael Aarons
- Associate Music\
Supervisor\
Matt Gallagher
- Company Manager\
Jason Pelusio
- Production Stage Manager\
Eric H. Mayer
- Music Director\
Emmanuel Schvartzman
- Marketing &\
Communications\
Laura Matalon\
John Gilmour	
- Technical Supervision\
Hudson Theatrical\
Associates
- Casting\
The Telsey Office\
Bethany Knox, CSA
- Associate & Supervising\
Director\
Patrick Vassel
- Production Supervisor\
Amber White
- Associate & Supervising\
Choreographer\
Stephanie Klemons
- Tour Booking Agency\
The Booking Group\
Meredith Blair, Kara Gebhart	
- Executive Producer\
Maggie Brohn	
- General Management\
Baseline Theatrical\
Andy Jones & Nick Lugo

&nbsp;

Music Supervision and Orchestrations by

## Alex Lacamoire

Choreography by

## Andy Blankenbuehler

Directed by

## Thomas Kail

The World Premiere of *HAMILTON* was presented in New York in February 2015 by The Public Theater\
Oskar Eustis, Artistic Director\
Patrick Willingham, Executive Director


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Hamilton 2025

Choose Lansing

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Jackson National Life Insurance Company

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Delta Dental

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Retailers Insurance

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Warner Nocross + Judd

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The Christman Company

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MSU Federal Credit Union

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There will be one 15-minute intermission.

**ACT ONE**

“Alexander Hamilton”\
“My Shot”\
“The Story of Tonight”\
“The Schuyler Sisters”\
“Farmer Refuted”\
“You’ll Be Back”\
“Right Hand Man”\
“Helpless”\
“Satisfied”\
“Wait For It”\
“Stay Alive”\
“Ten Duel Commandments”\
“That Would Be Enough”\
“History Has Its Eyes on You”\
“Yorktown”\
“Dear Theodosia”\
“Non-Stop”

**ACT TWO**

“What’d I Miss”\
“Take a Break”\
“Say No to This”\
“The Room Where It Happens”\
“Schuyler Defeated”\
“Washington on Your Side”\
“One Last Time”\
“The Adams Administration”\
“Hurricane”\
“The Reynolds Pamphlet”\
“Burn”\
“Blow Us All Away”\
“It’s Quiet Uptown”\
“The Election of 1800”\
“Your Obedient Servant”\
“The World Was Wide Enough”\
“Finale”

**ORCHESTRA**

*Conductor/Keyboard 1*—AUSTIN DEADMAN\
*Associate Music Director/Keyboard 2*—NOAH LANDIS\
*Drums*—JEFF ROBERTS\
*Percussion*—TOMMY HARTMAN\
*Bass*—AIDEN MOORE\
*Guitar*—SCHUYLER MCFADDEN\
*Concertmaster/Violin 1*—JESSICA WIERSMA\
*Violin 2*—SAGE WEST\
*Viola/Violin*—JAY JULIO\
*Cello*—ROLAND GJERNES\
*Music Associate*—PETER VAN REESEMA
 
*Abelton Programmer*—SCOTT WASSERMAN\
*Synthesizer and Drum Programming*—RANDY COHEN\
*Associate Music Supervisor*—MATT GALLAGHER


musical numbers

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Hamilton-2025-cast-Tyler Fauntleroy.jpg

Tyler Fauntleroy

Hamilton-2025-cast-Marja Harmon.jpg

Marja Harmon

Hamilton-2025-cast-Nathan Haydel.jpg

Nathan Haydel

Hamilton-2025-cast-Jared Howelton.jpg

Jared Howelton

Hamilton-2025-cast-Jimmie “JJ” Jeter.jpg

Jimmie “JJ” Jeter

Hamilton-2025-cast-Lauren Mariasoosay.jpg

Lauren Mariasoosay

Hamilton-2025-cast-Justin Matthew Sargent.jpg

Justin Matthew Sargent

Hamilton-2025-cast-Lily Soto.jpg

Lily Soto

Hamilton-2025-cast-Kai Thomani Tshikosi.jpg

Kai Thomani Tshikosi

Hamilton-2025-cast-A.D. Weaver.jpg

A.D. Weaver

Hamilton-2025-cast-Aaron J. Albano.jpg

Aaron J. Albano

Hamilton-2025-cast-Miriam Ali.jpg

Miriam Ali

Hamilton-2025-cast-Taylor Broadard.jpg

Taylor Broadard

Hamilton-2025-cast-Arjaye Christina.jpg

Arjaye Christina

Hamilton-2025-cast-Phillip Deceus.jpg

Phillip Deceus

Hamilton-2025-cast-Alex Dreschke.jpg

Alex Dreschke

Hamilton-2025-cast-Elvie Ellis.jpg

Elvie Ellis

Hamilton-2025-cast-Lili Froehlich.jpg

Lili Froehlich

Hamilton-2025-cast-Lexi Garcia.jpg

Lexi Garcia

Hamilton-2025-cast-Jorge Guerra.jpg

Jorge Guerra

Hamilton-2025-cast-Sabrina Harrison.jpg

Sabrina Harrison

Hamilton-2025-cast-Auston Henderson.jpg

Auston Henderson

Hamilton-2025-cast-Nathanael Hirst.jpg

Nathanael Hirst

Hamilton-2025-cast-Amanda Simone Lee.jpg

Amanda Simone Lee

Hamilton-2025-cast-Ashley Merritt.jpg

Ashley Merritt

Hamilton-2025-cast-Hosea Mundi.jpg

Hosea Mundi

Hamilton-2025-cast-Kevin Murakami.jpg

Kevin Murakami

Hamilton-2025-cast-Michael Natt.jpg

Michael Natt

Hamilton-2025-cast-Desmond Nunn.jpg

Desmond Nunn

Hamilton-2025-cast-Alexandrea Reynolds.jpg

Alexandrea Reynolds

Hamilton-2025-cast-Bella Rusli.jpg

Bella Rusli

Hamilton-2025-cast-Avery Sobczak.jpg

Avery Sobczak

Hamilton-2025-cast-Daniel Thimm.jpg

Daniel Thimm

- Alexander Hamilton
- **Tyler Fauntleroy**
- Eliza Hamilton
- **Lauren Mariasoosay**
- Aaron Burr
- **Jimmie “JJ” Jeter**
- Angelica Schuyler 
- **Marja Harmon**
- George Washington 
- **A.D. Weaver**
- Marquis de Lafayette/Thomas Jefferson 
- **Jared Howelton**
- Hercules Mulligan/James Madison 
- **Kai Thomani Tshikosi**
- John Laurens/Philip Hamilton 
- **Nathan Haydel**
- Peggy Schuyler/Maria Reynolds 
- **Lily Soto**
- King George III 
- **Justin Matthew Sargent**
- Philip Schuyler/James Reynolds/Doctor 
- **Auston Henderson**
- Samuel Seabury 
- **Alex Dreschke**
- Charles Lee 
- **Aaron J. Albano**
- George Eacker 
- **Nathanael Hirst**
- Ensemble 
- **Aaron J. Albano, Miriam Ali, Phillip Deceus, Alex Dreschke, Lexi Garcia, Sabrina Harrison, Auston Henderson, Nathanael Hirst, Amanda Simone Lee, Ashley Merritt**


**UNDERSTUDIES**\
Understudies and standbys never substitute for listed players unless a specific announcement is made at the time of appearance.


*For Alexander Hamilton*—Nathan Haydel, Hosea Mundi, Michael Natt;\
*for Eliza Hamilton*—Amanda Simone Lee, Alexandrea Reynolds, Lily Soto;\
*for Aaron Burr*—Elvie Ellis, Hosea Mundi, Michael Natt;\
*for Angelica Schuyler*—Amanda Simone Lee, Alexandrea Reynolds;\
*for George Washington*—Auston Henderson, Hosea Mundi;\
*for Marquis de Lafayette/Thomas Jefferson*—Elvie Ellis, Auston Henderson, Hosea Mundi;\
*for Hercules Mulligan/James Madison*—Elvie Ellis, Auston Henderson, Michael Natt;\
*for John Laurens/Philip Hamilton*—Jorge Guerra, Michael Natt, Desmond Nunn;\
*for Peggy Schuyler/Maria Reynolds*—Miriam Ali, Amanda Simone Lee, Alexandrea Reynolds;\
*for King George III*— Aaron J. Albano, Elvie Ellis.


**STANDBYS**\
Elvie Ellis, Hosea Mundi, Michael Natt, Alexandrea Reynolds


**SWINGS**\
Taylor Broadard, Arjaye Christina, Lili Froehlich, Jorge Guerra, 
Kevin Murakami, Desmond Nunn, Bella Rusli, Avery Sobczak, Daniel Thimm


**CO-DANCE CAPTAINS**\
Kevin Murakami, Bella Rusli


**SUPERVISING CHOREOGRAPHER**\
Michael Mindlin 


**UNIVERSAL DANCE RESIDENT**\
Desmond Nunn




cast

**TYLER FAUNTLEROY** (*Alexander Hamilton*).  Select credits: *Hamilton*: Philip Tour (national tour), *Tambo & Bones* (Playwrights Horizons/CTG), *Looking for Leroy* (New Federal Theatre), *Fences* (Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival), *The Tempest* (Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival), *The Most Spectacularly Lamentable Trial of Miz Martha Washington* (Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival), *1 Henry IV* (Folger Theatre), *Next to Normal* (Syracuse Stage). TV: "Succession," "FBI," "The Oath." To God be the glory!

**MARJA HARMON** (*Angelica Schuyler*) is thrilled to be returning to the role of Angelica Schuyler! Broadway: *The Book of Mormon, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof* (Maggie u/s). National: *Hamilton*: And Peggy Tour (Angelica), *The Lion King* (Nala), *Aida* (Aida). International: *Aida* (Aida). Television: "God Friended Me," "Murphy Brown," "Jessica Jones." University of Southern California. "Thank you to my team at CGF Talent, my loving husband, beautiful family and friends." @marjaharmony, marjaharmon.me.

**NATHAN HAYDEL** (*John Laurens/Philip Hamilton*) is delighted to be making their debut with the Angelica company! He has been studying electronic production and design at Berklee College of Music, and is currently releasing music under the name Nat Riel! Special shoutout to Sophia Steigerwald, Jarrett O'Neal, LeRell Ross, Tre Floyd Productions, Sis thee Doll, The Link Program, and many, many, more! "I love you, Mom and Dad!"

**JARED HOWELTON** (*Marquis de Lafayette/Thomas Jefferson*). *Hamilton*: Broadway (Principal Standby), Philip Tour (Lafayette/Jefferson), And Peggy Tour (Laurens/Philip). National tours: *Motown the Musical* (Featured Ensemble). International tour: *Shrek the Musical* (Donkey). Off-Broadway: *Urinetown the Musical* (Bobby Strong). He is not able to do this without the love and support of his family, agents at Clear Talent Group and manager Michele Largé. Praise God! @jhowelsmiles.

**JIMMIE "JJ" JETER** (*Aaron Burr*). Juilliard School alumnus (Group 45). *Hamilton*: Broadway (Alexander Hamilton), Angelica Tour, Philip Tour, And Peggy Tour (Principal Standby), Australia (Principal Standby, Assistant Director). His screen achievements include *Hold On* (Sundance 2017), *Campfire Alfa* and a television role in "The Chi" Season 2 on Showtime; on the regional stage, as Cory in *Fences* at Pioneer Theatre Company and Benvolio in *Romeo and Juliet* at DC Shakespeare Theatre Company. He is recently credited for his role as Taylor in the world premiere of Craig Lucas's *Prelude to a Kiss the Musical* at South Coast Rep. @jimmiejeter.

**LAUREN MARIASOOSAY** (*Eliza Hamilton*) (she/her) is absolutely honored to be joining the HamFam as Eliza. She recently played Catherine Parr in the original Canadian production of *Six the Musical* in Toronto. National tours: Disney's *Aladdin* and *Cats*. Biggest thank yous to the Telsey Office, *Hamilton* creatives, LA Talent, Zero Gravity, every mentor past/present, and most of all family and friends. She is humbled to be representing South Asian, mixed-race artists everywhere. For all the brown kids trying to find their place in the world.\
@laurenmariasoosay.

**JUSTIN MATTHEW SARGENT** (*King George III*). Broadway: *Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark* (Peter Parker), *Rock of Ages* (Drew), *Bonnie & Clyde*. TV/film: *Jesus Christ Superstar*, "Law & Order: SVU," "Mr. Robot," "Royal Pains," *Stormchaser*, *The Greatest Ever*, *Apple Pie* and more! He has performed alongside John Legend, Alice Cooper, Sara Bareilles, David Byrne, Dee Snider, REO Speedwagon and Air Supply. Thanks to Hybrid Agency and Stevie Boothe Management! @justinmsargent.

**LILY SOTO** (*Peggy Schuyler/Maria Reynolds*) is thrilled to be making her national tour debut in *Hamilton*! Lily is originally from Nashville, Tennessee and is a recent graduate of NYU Steinhardt. She would like to thank the *Hamilton* team, Telsey and Taylor for this amazing opportunity and to her family and friends for their endless support. @lilymsoto.

**KAI THOMANI TSHIKOSI** (*Hercules Mulligan/James Madison*). *Hamilton* debut! Off-Broadway: *Jordans* (The Public). Select regional: *Black Odyssey, Sweeney Todd* (Trinity Rep); *Romeo and Juliet* (Commonwealth Shakespeare Company); *Macbeth, Equivocation, The Tempest* (Actors' Shakespeare Project); *Fat Ham, Romeo and Juliet* (Huntington Theatre Company). M.F.A. Brown University/Trinity Rep. Kai is proud to reprise the role of son to the best mama in the whole universe. tshikosi.com. @thesupremekai.

**A.D. WEAVER** (*George Washington*). Grateful to be in the HamFam. Off-Broadway: *The Lieutenant, Sunken Cathedral*. Select regional: *Rent* (Portland Center Stage); *Forever Plaid, Elf* (Drury Lane); *Slippin Through...* (Goodman Theatre); *The Color Purple* (Phoenix Theatre); *Ragtime* (Park Playhouse); *Five Guys Named Moe* (Court Theatre); *Little Shop..., Avenue Q* (Mercury Theater Chicago); *Buddy Holly* (Fireside Theatre); *Teddy Pendergrass Story* (Black Ensemble Theater). Television: "Law & Order: SVU," "Southside," "American Greed." "Love to my family and The Tribe for loving me no matter the journey. Special thanks to my manager Becky, agents at DDO, The Telsey Office and this company." Jeremiah 29:11. @adweaver_.

**AARON J. ALBANO** (*Ensemble*) is thrilled to be rejoining the revolution! A *Hamilton* alumnus, Aaron has had the honor of being a part of both the Philip Tour (Samuel Seabury) and the Broadway company (Charles Lee). Additionally, Aaron is a veteran of 12 Broadway shows, including *Aladdin*, *Wicked* and *Newsies*, among others. Proud Equity member since 2003. For more info, visit\
aaronjalbano.com. @aaronjalbano.

**MIRIAM ALI** (*Ensemble*). Broadway: *Funny Girl*. Miriam is also a songwriter, and her original music is available everywhere. Elated for this chapter with *Hamilton*. Big love to family, friends, The Mine, mentors and creative/casting teams. Stay spicy.\
@miriamali11.

**TAYLOR BROADARD** (*Swing*) is excited to share this story around the country. *Hamilton*: Broadway (Universal Swing), Angelica Tour, Philip Tour, And Peggy Tour and international tour (Swing), *Memphis: The Musical* (Ensemble). "Your dreams have no expiration date, keep going!" @tbroadard8_.

**ARJAYE CHRISTINA** (*Swing*) is thrilled to make her national tour debut! Regional credits: *Beautiful: The Carole King Musical* (Little Eva), *Evita* (Ensemble, u/s Tango Feature), *State Fair* (Eleanor, The REV). "Thank you, God! Thank you Mom for all of your sacrifices!" @arjaye.christina.

**PHILLIP DECEUS** (*Ensemble*). "Gratefully embracing my new journey in *Hamilton*, performing with passion. Living my dreams on this stage and weaving history into melodies. Celebrating hope and resilience." #RiseUp. @phillipdeceus.

**ALEX DRESCHKE** (*Ensemble*) is thrilled to be back with *Hamilton* after touring with the And Peggy and Philip companies. Broadway: *A Bronx Tale*. National tour: *Kinky Boots, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory*. Endless thanks to Bloc, teachers, family and friends. Instagram: @alexdreschke.

**ELVIE ELLIS** (*Standby*). Thrilled to join the HamFam! National tours: *Jesus Christ Superstar 50th Anniversary* (Judas), *Waitress* (Swing). International: *Best of Rock Musicals*. Select regional: *The Music Man* (Harold Hill), *Songs...New World, Rocky Horror* (Riff-Raff), *Titanic* (Charles Clarke), *Smokey Joe's Cafe*. University of Oklahoma grad. Luedtke Agency. "For my Savior, family, friends and teachers." Ephesians 2:10 @elvie.ellis.

**LILI FROEHLICH** (*Swing*). *Hamilton*: Broadway, Philip Tour. Broadway: *Cats*. Tours: *Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.* Lili is originally from Fort Worth, Texas, and is a graduate of Otterbein University. Love and thanks to Mom, Dad and the HamFam!

**LEXI GARCIA**  (*Ensemble*) is thrilled to be back with her HamFam! Her favorite roles include wife to Teddy Toye and Aunt to Ava and Isla, as well as *Hamilton* (Broadway, Philip Tour), *Finding Neverland* (national tour). B.F.A., Marymount Manhattan College. Endless love to her family and friends, CESD, Telsey and the creative team. "It's always for you, Grandma."

**JORGE GUERRA** (*Swing*). Proudly telling this revolutionary story as a first generation Mexican-American, Jorge pledges and encourages a donation to Voto Latino (votolatino.org), an organization igniting passion for political participation among young Latinos. Endless gratitude to his community, which has dared him to dream and demand change.

**SABRINA HARRISON** (*Ensemble*) is making her national tour debut as an ensemble dancer (Bullet) with the *Hamilton* Angelica Tour. She is a recent graduate of the Joffrey Ballet School. Growing up in Martinsburg, West Virginia, she is very grateful to her friends and family for their support.

**AUSTON HENDERSON** (*Ensemble*) is a Houston native, and excited to join the revolution! National tour debut! Thanks to God, his family and friends. Credits: *Macbeth, Rent* and *The Three Musketeers* (Oregon Shakespeare Festival). His music is streaming on all platforms. @austonotsua.

**NATHANAEL HIRST** (*Ensemble*). National tour: *Aladdin* (Swing). Regional: Variety St. Louis. "For my Mom, Dad, family, all who believed in me and God! Thanks to Stephanie Klemons, the CESD team and Telsey!"

**AMANDA SIMONE LEE** (*Ensemble*). National tour debut! Off-Broadway: *The Big Gay Jamboree* (Dora). Regional: Signature Theatre: *Hair* (Dionne); Short North Stage: *Rent* (Joanne); NCLH: *Six* (Catherine Parr). FSU MT alum. Forever thankful for DGRW, her friends, most of all her wonderful family!

**ASHLEY MERRITT** (*Ensemble*). National tours: *Funny Girl, Hamilton*. Ashley is elated to be back with *Hamilton*! From Seattle originally, she moved to NYC to attend Pace University's commercial dance program, before deciding to pursue theater. Immense amounts of love to family, friends and CESD.

**HOSEA MUNDI** (*Standby*) is so excited to be making his *Hamilton* debut! National tours: *Jesus Christ Superstar* (Simon), *Girl From the North Country* (Soloist). Regional: *In the Heights* (Benny). He sends his love to his family, friends and dog Snowy. @hoseamundiofficial.

**KEVIN MURAKAMI** (*Swing/Dance Captain*). Happy to be re-joining the HamFam! *Hamilton*: And Peggy Tour. National tour: *Miss Saigon* (Dragon Acrobat). NYC: *Radio City Christmas Spectacular*. "Thank you to my family, friends and teachers." @kevinmurakami77.

**MICHAEL NATT** (*Standby*). From Terre Haute, Indiana, and thrilled to be making his national tour debut. Honored and blessed to share the stage with this cast and crew! Praise be to God! Love and gratitude to wife and kids, Mom and family for their support. Also Jennifer Johns/BAA, Lisa Calli, Aly Isbrantsen, Barry Kolker, Telsey and friends!\
1 Peter 4:10. @michaelnatt_.

**DESMOND NUNN** (*Universal Dance Resident*) (he/him/his). he/him/his. *Hamilton*: Angelica Tour, Philip Tour, And Peggy Tour (Dance Supervisor, Dance Captain/Swing), Deutschland (Assistant Choreographer). Huge thanks to his family and partners, whose love and support fuels him daily. Check out his music on all platforms.\
desmondnunn.com. @nunnbetter20.

**ALEXANDREA REYNOLDS** (*Standby*). Blessed to be here! Broadway: *Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Diana: The Musical, A Beautiful Noise* (OBC). National tour: *Summer* (Disco Donna). Additional: *Motown, Tap Dance Kid, Michael Che*. "Thanks to J, my family and the best at CGF."\
@alex_asusual.

**BELLA RUSLI**  (*Swing/Dance Captain*). Dallas native and Boston Conservatory at Berklee grad (B.F.A., dance). *Hamilton*: Angelica Tour and Philip Tour (Swing/Dance Captain). Bella is so grateful to be joining her third *Hamilton* company. "Thanks to my amazing family!"

**AVERY SOBCZAK** (*Swing*) is excited to be back on the road with *Hamilton*! *Hamilton*: Broadway, Angelica Tour, Philip Tour, And Peggy Tour. Regional: *Anne of Green Gables* (Goodspeed), *A Christmas Carol* (McCarter Theatre). "Special thanks to my family, my partner and Lakey Wolff!" B.F.A. Ithaca College. @averysobczak.

**DANIEL THIMM** (*Swing*). A graduate of NYU Tisch School of the Arts. National tour: *Jagged Little Pill*. So honored to be a part of the *Hamilton* legacy. "All my love and gratitude to Mom, Dad, family, CESD and friends. Shout-out to my brothers—this one is for you." @dbthimm.

**ADVENTURELAND**\
Jeffrey Seller\
Maggie Brohn\
Carl Aloi\
Tori Lynn\
Michael Maier

**GENERAL MANAGEMENT**\
BASELINE THEATRICAL\
Andy Jones\
Nick Lugo\
Ruby DeMarco\
Cameron Foltz\
James Hickey\
Marina Hyson\
Fatmatta Kuyateh\
Emanuel Azenberg

- Associate General Managers	
- Dana Li, Beth Renoni
- General Management Assistant	
- Charlie Sirmaian

**COMPANY MANAGEMENT**

- Company Manager
- Jason Pelusio 
- Associate Company Manager
- Ariana Garcia
- Assistant Company Manager
- Liam Millward

**PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT**\
HUDSON THEATRICAL ASSOCIATES\
Neil A. Mazzella\
Sam Ellis\
Bridget Van Dyke\
Sean Gorski\
Brianne Tabak\
Irene Wang

**MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS**\
Laura Matalon\
John Gilmour\
Gabriella Godínez\
Jessica Steans-Gail\
Marketing Intern\
Alex Angrist

**PEOPLE & CULTURE**\
CORNERSTONE CONSULTING HR LLC\
Colette Luckie\
Dr. Heather R. Sanders\
Leland Barnecut\
Elijah I. Wilson

**ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT STRATEGISTS**\
THE HEWLIN GROUP, LLC\
Jay A. Hewlin, Esq.\
Dr. Patricia F. Hewlin\
Dr. Sandra Cha


**TOUR BOOKING AGENCY**\
THE BOOKING GROUP\
Meredith Blair\
Kara Gebhart\
Laura Kolarik\
Stephanie Ditman\
thebookinggroup.com

**CASTING**\
TELSEY + COMPANY\
Bethany Knox, CSA\
Peter Wiliam Dunn\
Alexis Brown

**LEGAL COUNSEL**\
LEVINE PLOTKIN LLP\
Loren Plotkin\
Conrad Rippy\
Susan Mindell\
Daniel Watkins\
Emily Erstling\
Kevin Hess\
Cris Criswell

**INSIGHT TIX**\
Tony Lance\
Olivia Baddeley\
Gregory Lipson\
Sarah Stromwell\
Mady Johnston

---

- Production Stage Manager	
- Eric H. Mayer
- Stage Managers	
- Marcedès L. Clanton, Abby L. Powers
- Assistant Stage Manager
- Anthony CeFala 
- Resident Director	
- Ashley Brooke Monroe 
- Associate Scenic Designer	
- Rod Lemmond
- Assistant to Mr. Korins	
- Kelly Deary
- Associate Costume Designer	
- Angela M. Kahler
- Assistant Costume Designers	
- Jen Raskopf, Kim Sorenson, Kara Branch
- Associate Lighting Designer	
- Ryan O’Gara
- Assistant Lighting Designer	
- Joel Britt 
- Light Programmer	
- David Arch
- Howell Binkley Fellow	
- Jessica Drayton
- Associate Sound Designer	
- Jason Crystal
- Assistant Sound Designer	
- Connor Wang
- Production Hair Supervisor/Associate Wig & Hair Designer	
- Rachael Geier
- Production Manager	
- Bridget Van Dyke
- Production Carpenter	
- Andrew Sullivan
- Advance Carpenters	
- Tom Bertino, Matthew McKim, Otis Renegar, Jeffrey Sharratt, John Wilson
- Move Carpenter	
- Tony Ball
- Load Out Carpenter	
- Nellie Sanderson
- Truck Czar	
- Jamie Allspaugh
- Head Carpenter	
- Alden Corey
- Automation/Assistant Carpenter	
- Steven Ball
- Production Electrician	
- James J. Fedigan
- Associate Production Electrician	
- Christopher Robinson
- Advance Electricians	
- Max Marquez, Trevor Maynard, Apon Nichols
- Load Out Electrician	
- Tara Durso, Jessica Kohn
- Head Electrician	
- Jeff “Swing” Holtz
- Lead Spot	
- Rachel Juozapaitis
- Swing Electrician	
- Ann Roche
- Production Props Supervisor	
- Denise J. Grillo
- Head Props	
- Mike Eickmeyer
- Assistant Props	
- Andrew Iverson
- Production Sound	
- Nick Borisjuk
- Advance Sound	
- Chad Parsley, Erik Ramquist 
- Load Out Sound	
- Kelly Schmidt
- Head Sound Engineer	
- Jason DeJardin
- Assistant Sound	
- Joshua Boatman
- Production Wardrobe Supervisor	
- Scott Westervelt
- Advance Wardrobe	
- Emily Baldwin, Lizz Hirons 
- Wardrobe Supervisor	
- Michelle Cross
- Assistant Wardrobe	
- Kara Messer
- Production Stitcher	
- Mark Smith
- Hair Supervisor	
- Kelly Flanagan
- Crew Swing	
- Kellie DeJardin 
- Assistant to Jill Furman	
- Kenzie Packer
- Production Assistant	
- Rodrigo Herrera
- Banking	
- City National Bank, Erik Piecuch and Michele Gibbons 
- Payroll	
- Checks and Balances Payroll, Inc.
- Accountant	
- WithumSmith+Brown: Robert Fried, Karen Kowgios, Scott Bartolf, Anthony Moore, Lara Waldner, CPAs
- Comptroller	
- Galbraith & Company/Kenny Noth, Hannah Goldstein
- Insurance	
- Aon/Albert G. Ruben Insurance Services, Inc./Claudia Kaufman
- Advertising	
- RPM
- Social Media Manager	
- Marathon Digital/Mike Karns, Melanie Pateiro
- Intimacy Coordinator	
- Ann James
- Dialect Coach	
- Dawn-Elin Fraser 
- Physical Therapy	
- Neuro Tour Physical Therapy
- Athletic Trainer	
- Danielle Brewin, MS, LAT, ATC
- Associate Synthesizer Programmers	
- Taylor Williams, Jeremy King
- Electronic Music Producer	
- Will Wells
- Rehearsal Musician	
- Daniel Sefik
- Music Copying	
- Emily Grishman Music Preparation
- Production Photographer	
- Joan Marcus
- Merchandising	
- Creative Goods/Pete Milano
- Travel Services	
- The A Team at Tzell Travel
- Housing Services	
- DebCo/Debbie Greenfield
- Tour Security and K9	
- Patriot Group Global

---

**DEDICATION**\
Howell Binkley (1956–2020)

The Hamilton team celebrates the incredible life and contributions of Theatrical Lighting Designer, Howell Binkley. His 52 Broadway shows included Hamilton, Jersey Boys, Come From Away, In the Heights, Kiss of the Spider Woman and so many more. His work on the Disney+ release of Hamilton, filmed at the Richard Rodgers Theatre, immortalises his masterful artistry. Howell was adored by many and will be missed by all.

“Thank you for sculpting in light and elevating every moment you touched.” —Lin-Manuel Miranda

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American Express is the official card of Hamilton.

---

**CREDITS**\
Scenery and automation by Hudson Scenic Studio.Lighting and sound equipment from PRG. Special thanks to Bra*Tenders for hosiery and undergarments. Costume construction by Jennifer Love Costumes, Parsons-Meares Ltd., Tricorne New York, Donna Langman, Artur and Tailors Inc., Colin Davis Jones, T.O. Dey Shoes, Worldtone Dance, Lynne Mackey Studios, Roberta Hamelin, Martin Adams, Woo!, Sarah M. Reever. Millenery by Elizabeth Flauto Costume Crafts. Millinery by Elizabeth Flat Costume Crafts. Custom furniture and specialty props built by Jerard Studio, Daedalus Scenic and Zoe Morsette.

---

The score of Hamilton contains references to the following classics:\
“Going Back to Cali,” written by Christopher Wallace, Osten Harvey, Jr. and Roger Troutman. Published by EMI April Music Inc., Big Poppa Music, Justin Combs Publishing Company Inc. All rights administered by Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, 424 Church Street, Suite 1200, Nashville, TN 37219; R2M Music (BMI); all rights administered by BMG Rights Management (U.S.) LLC; Rubber Band Music (BMI). Worldwide rights administered by Grow Your Own Music (BMI), a division of “A” Side Music, LLC d/b/a Modern Works Music Publishing. ©1997 Songs of Lastrada (BMI). All rights reserved. Used by permission. “Juicy (It’s All Good),” written by Christopher Wallace, Jean-Claude Olivier, Sean Combs and James Mtume. Published by EMI April Music Inc., Big Poppa Music, Justin Combs Publishing Company Inc. All rights administered by Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, 424 Church Street, Suite 1200, Nashville, TN 37219; Jumping Bean Songs, LLC, courtesy of Jumping Bean Songs, LLC (BMI); and Mtume Music (BMI). All rights reserved. Used by permission. “Nobody Needs to Know,” from The Last Five Years. Music and lyrics by Jason Robert Brown. ©2001 Semolina Farfalle Music Co. (ASCAP). Used by permission. “Party Up (Up in Here),” written by Earl Simmons and Kasseem Dean. Published by Dead Game Publishing (ASCAP). All rights on behalf of Dead Game Publishing administered by WB Music Corp., Universal Music Corp. on behalf of itself, Boomer X Publishing, Inc. and Swizz Beatz (ASCAP). “Shook Ones Pt. II,” written by Kejuan Waliek Muchita and Albert Johnson. Published by Universal Music-MGB Songs on behalf of itself and Juvenile Hell (ASCAP) and Universal Music - Careers on behalf of itself and P. Noid Publishing (BMI). “Ten Crack Commandments,” written by Christopher E. Martin (ASCAP) and Khary Kimani Turner (ASCAP). Published by EMI April Music Inc., Hertzrentatune and Weblife Music. All rights administered by Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, 424 Church Street, Suite 1200, Nashville, TN 37219; and Gifted Pearl Music, Inc. (ASCAP). Administered by Kobalt Music Publishing America, Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission. “The Message,” written by Melvin Glover, Sylvia Robinson, Clifton Nathaniel Chase and Edward G. Fletcher. Published by Songs of Universal, Inc. on behalf of Twenty Nine Black Music and Sugar Hill Music Publishing Ltd. (BMI). “The Modern Major General” from The Pirates of Penzance, written by W.S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan. Original production premiered at Opéra Comique, London, in April, 1880. “You’ve Got to Be Carefully Taught” from South Pacific. Music by Richard Rodgers. Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II. This selection is used by special arrangement with Rodgers & Hammerstein: an Imagem Company, rnh.com. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

---

Music Clearances by Deborah Mannis-Gardner/DMG Clearances, Inc.

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**SPECIAL THANKS**\
Jason Robert Brown, Rodgers & Hammerstein: A Concord Music Company, the Public Costume Shop, Tudor Place, J. Philip Bassett

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Hamilton rehearsed at New 42 Studios.

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**Actors' Equity Association**\
The actors and stage managers employed in this production are members of Actors’ Equity Association, the union of professional actors and stage managers in the United States.

---

**SDC**\
The Director and Choreographer are members of the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers, Inc., an independent national labor union.

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**I.A.T.S.E.**\
Backstage and Front of the House Employees are represented by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (or I.A.T.S.E.).

---

United Scenic Artists represents the designers and scenic painters for the American Theatre.

---

**ATPAM**\
The Press Agents and Company Managers employed in this production are represented by the Association of Theatrical Press Agents & Managers.

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The musicians employed in this production are members of the American Federation of Musicians.

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**Dramatists Guild of America**\
The professional association of playwrights, composers and lyricists

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**The Broadway League**\
This production is produced by a member of The Broadway League in collaboration with our professional union-represented employees.

---

EDUHAM
The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History\
[Learn more about student opportunities.](https://www.gilderlehrman.org/sites/default/files/file_media/EduHam%20Student%20Opportunities%20Flyer_0.pdf)



Hamilton

# **Sutton Foster Awards**

- **Host**\
Lauren Nicole Chapman
- **Co-Director/Choreographers**\
Morgan Rose &\
LaQuet Sharnell Pringle
- **Music Directors &**\
**Music Arrangers**\
Steven Cuevas\
& Jonathan K. Parks
- **Lighting Designer**\
Michael Beyer 
- **Stage Manager**\
Lauren Lenz
- **Assistant Stage**\
**Manager**\
Tia Spicer
- **Judges**\
Penelope Ragotzy\
Brian Taylor\
Tiffany Sims

1. Donell Snyder\
Reeds
2. Chuck Newsome\
Guitar
3. Jeff Trudell\
Percussion
4. Hank Horton\
Bass

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SFA-2025.jpg

Places Please—A Tribute to the Broadway opening number\
Welcome: Host Lauren Nicole Chapman\
Character Medley Performances\
2025 Technical Theatre Honors\
Backstage Spotlight\
Guest Performance\
Character Medley Performances\
House of Mouse Tribute

**Intermission**

Character Medley Performance\
Finalists Announced\
Executive Director: Eric Olmscheid\
Weekend One Production Number\
2025 Excellence in Musical Theatre Education Award\
Weekend Two Production Number\
2025 SFA Winners /Jimmy Award Nominees\
Closing Number

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This performance will run approximately two hours & 30 minutes, including one 15-minute intermission.

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Sponsored by Nancy Passanante and Michigan Student Aid.

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Program

[![25-MISA-0559-SuttonFosterAwards-PrintAd-003.jpg](https://res.cloudinary.com/wharton-center/image/upload/v1746640576/25_MISA_0559_Sutton_Foster_Awards_Print_Ad_003_2607f4dd1f.jpg)](https://mi.gov/achievement)


## **SUTTON FOSTER AWARDS**

The Sutton Foster Awards program is a state-wide educational initiative celebrating Michigan high school musical theatre. The program is open to all Michigan high schools, regardless of location, school size, or musical budget. The year-long program culminates in the Sutton Foster Awards Showcase that you will see today. The Sutton Foster Awards program has grown significantly over the past three years with 72 high schools represented today. Today’s program features 150 high school students performing selections from their school musicals and a variety of Broadway medleys.


**THE NOMINEES’ JOURNEY**\
All of today’s performers are hoping to become Michigan nominees for The National High School Musical Theatres Awards (The Jimmy Awards®) to be held in New York City later this summer. Performers were selected based on their participation in their respective high school musicals; each musical was reviewed by a panel of three expert adjudicators, who selected students to appear in today’s showcase. Once nominated, students were also invited to participate in one of two Workshop and Audition Weekends held earlier in May. During these weekends, the students experienced one-on-one vocal coaching with voice professionals, learned music and choreography for a musical theatre arrangement, custom-designed for each weekend, and auditioned for a panel of judges. All 150 students came together yesterday to rehearse and stage today’s 2025 Sutton Foster Awards Showcase.

about

**Morgan Rose**\
Morgan is so grateful and overjoyed to be a back at this year's Sutton Foster Awards. Broadway: *School of Rock* (Dance Capt/Swing); Off-Broadway: *Dear Edwina* (Dance Capt/Swing)*;* National Tours: *Evita* Revival 1st Nat'l Tour (Swing), *Shrek The Musical* 1st Nat'l Tour, *Elf The Musical.* In addition to performing, Morgan is a passionate arts educator. You can find her teaching all around New York City and on faculty at Broadway Dance Center, Joffrey Ballet School's Musical Theatre Intensive, MTCA and AMDA. She has been incredibly fortunate to work alongside some of New York's most inspiring choreographers including  Al Blackstone, Natalie Malotke, Ricky Hinds and Josh Bergasse. BFA Music Theatre Florida State University. Michigander at heart. Proud AEA Member. Love to her incredible husband, Trey, and their sweet not-so baby boy, Theo. @nycmoro

**LaQuet Sharnell Pringle**\
 LaQuet Sharnell Pringle (they/them) is a seasoned and celebrated Professional dancer/singer/actor with 20 years of experience working on and off Broadway. For 11 years, They've been a celebrated dance/musical theater acting and voice educator serving on the faculty of Texas State University, the American Musical and Dramatic Academy, and the NY Film Academy. LaQuet trained at William Esper Studios with William Esper and is a proud SUNY Empire State College graduate with a BA in Theater & Dance. Their performing credits include Broadway/National Tour: *Mrs. Doubtfire The Musical, Beautiful The Carole King Musical, Lysistrata Jones, Memphis, The Lion King, Sweet Charity*, Off-Broadway: *The Life, Make Mine Manhattan, Ave Q*, Regional Theater: *Aida* (Workshop), *Flashdance, Candide, The Wiz, Ain't Misbehavin', Princess-A New Musical, Chicago, Footloose, AIDA, Nights on Broadway III, Shrek—The Musical* (NY Workshop), *Jawbreaker The Musical, Caty Bridgewater A Musical, The Submission, Closer, The Dead Guy*, Television/Film: *Blacklist* (NBC), *Girls on the Bus* (HBO), *I.F.* (Paramount Pictures), *Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, The Daily Show, As the World Turns, Step Up 3D, Devoted, Sylvia Plath Project*.

**Steven Cuevas**\
Steven Cuevas (he/him) is a NYC-based music director, musician, orchestrator, and arranger. Broadway: *The Notebook*; *The Who's Tommy*; *Days of Wine and Roses*; *New York, New York*; *Dancin'*; *& Juliet*; *Moulin Rouge!*; *Tina: The Tina Turner Musical*; *Once On This Island*; *Anastasia*; *Kinky Boots*. Select Off-Broadway: *The Connector*, *Hell's Kitchen,* *Kinky Boots*, *Little Shop of Horrors*, *We Are The Tigers*, *Closer Than Ever*. Tours: *Tina*, *Moulin Rouge!*, *Once On This Island*, *Kinky Boots*, *How the Grinch Stole Christmas!*, *Spring Awakening*. Regional: *Eighty-Sixed* (Diversionary Theatre), *Macbeth in Stride* (A.R.T., Shakespeare Theatre Company, Philadelphia Theatre Company). Recordings: *Once On This Island*, *How the Grinch*..., *Monstersongs*. Orchestrations: *Macbeth in Stride*, *Gold Mountain*. Proud member: Local 802 AFM, AEA, Recording Academy, Filipino American community. @StevenMCuevas

**Jonathan K. Parks**\
Jonathan K. Parks is a Manhattan-based music director, educator, and pianist. Broadway: *Chicago.* National Tours: *Chicago, Young Frankenstein, The Four Phantoms in Concert*. NYC: Metropolitan Opera, Big Apple Circus. Regional: Barrington Stage Company, Ogunquit Playhouse, Gateway Playhouse, Northern Stage, New London Barn Playhouse, Lake Dillon Theatre Company, Short North Stage, Amarillo Opera. He is a proud graduate of Florida State University and has served on the faculties of New York University and Marymount Manhattan College. [jonathankparks.com](https://www.jonathankparks.com/)

**Lauren Nicole Chapman**\
Lauren Nicole Chapman is an Actor, Singer and Dancer working out of New York City. A proud Michigan native, she attended Interlochen Arts Academy for boarding school with a concentration in Theatre. She then went on to pursue a BFA in Musical Theatre at Emerson College in Boston, MA. With diploma in hand Lauren moved to NYC and shortly after joined the Broadway and touring companies of the Tony award winning musical, *Kinky Boots*. In 2017 Lauren joined the Original Broadway Cast of *Frozen* and has the past 7 years touring as Princess Anna. 

**PROGRAM STAFF**\
Laurie Briseño\
Steve Heinrich\
Ben English\
Kelly Stuible-Clark

**Additional Support**\
Jess Randall\
Connor Reilly\
Hope Still\
Jenna Hemmes\
Andrew Muylle\
Anastasia Breen\
Elena Forman


Sutton Foster Awards

## The 29th Annual

# **Young Playwrights Festival**

&nbsp;

Finalists:

- Malayna Brink
- Cozmo Neubauer
- Malia Reitz
- Richard Shelton
- Madison Snawder 
- Charlie Valas

&nbsp;

Thank you to our generous sponsors:

- MSU Federal Credit Union
- Wharton Center Inner Circle

small_YPF-2025.jpg

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YPF-2025.jpg

Presentation of the 2025 Finalist Plays\
Department of Theatre Speech: *Sarah Hendrickson*

Welcome from Sarah Hendrickson and Eric Olmscheid. 

There will be a reception in the lobby after the final performance.


### **The Chicanerous Murder of A Sunscreen Saleswoman**

Written by Malia Reitz, Holt High School\
Sponsoring Teacher: Lauren Hallett • Playwright Mentor: Emilio Rodriguez\
Directed by Matt Durland

- **Colette**
- Savannah Jordan
- **Lucian**
- Shelby Parker
- **Julian**
- Jhon Govaere
- **Tanner**
- Stephanie Kochel

### **Count to 10**

Written by Richard Shelton, Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy\
Sponsoring Teacher: Karen Horwath • Playwright Mentor: Eric Marlin\
Directed by Ava Ballagh

- **Earn**
- Ben Perry
- **Levitt**
- Jhon Govaere
- **Customer**
- Alec Althoen
- **Hendrix**
- Alexis Mendez

### **Defiance in Name Only**

Written by Malayna Brink, Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy\
Sponsoring Teacher: Karen Horwath • Playwright Mentor: Shawntai Brown\
Directed by Ava Ballagh

- **Teru**
- Jhon Govaere
- **Father**
- Ben Perry
- **Emerald**
- Lexa Busch

### **Double Life**

Written by Madison Snawder, Dewitt High School\
Sponsoring Teacher: Katie Nolen • Playwright Mentor: Joe Giardina\
Directed by Cayla Joy

- **Lindsay**
- Maddie Affer
- **Lindsay Double**
- Lexa Busch
- **Sam**
- Ben Perry
- **Sam Double**
- Alexis Mendez

### **Wired in Parallel**

Written by Cozmo Neubauer, J.W. Sexton High School\
Sponsoring Teacher: Candace Potts • Playwright Mentor: Bella Poynton\
Directed by Cayla Joy

- **Jaron**
- Alexis Mendez
- **Evelynn**
- Maddie Affer
- **Thyria**
- Savannah Jordan
- **Overseer**
- Shelby Parker

### **SUPER FUN SPACE ADVENTURES!!!**

Written by Charlie Valas, East Lansing High School\
Sponsoring Teacher: Diana Sanchez • Playwright Mentor: Jill Holden\
Directed by Matt Durland

- **Captain**
- Stephanie Kochel
- **Private**
- Maddie Affer
- **Cow**
- Lexa Busch
- **Barry**
- Alec Althoen

&nbsp;

---



## **Institute for Arts & Creativity**

Kelly Stuible-Clark, Senior Education Program Manager\
Laurie Briseño, Education Operations Manager\
Ben English, Community Engagement & Special Projects Coordinator\
Hope X. Still, Intern\
Connor Reilly, Intern

![Institute_wordmark_gray.jpg](https://res.cloudinary.com/wharton-center/image/upload/v1746648634/Institute_wordmark_gray_c63b05914a.jpg)


---

Wharton Center wishes to express thanks to the following organizations & individuals:

**MSU Department of Theatre**\
Stephen Di Benedetto, Chair

**Faculty Mentor/Advisor for Playwrights**\
Rob Roznowski, Head of Acting & Directing, Professor

**Faculty Mentor/Advisor to Student Directors**\
Sarah Hendrickson, Academic Specialist of Acting and Improvisation, Teaching Artist in Residence, Wharton Center Institute for Arts & Creativity

**Play Selection Committee**\
Brooke Cousins\
Anthony Monteleone\
Nathaniel Myers\
Rob Roznowski\
Alexandra Spevetz

**Intimacy Director**\
Connor J. Reilly

**Stage Managers**\
Connor J. Reilly\
Ally Doederlein\
Kyle Angiolino

**Special thanks to our playwright mentors:**\
Shawntai Brown\
*Detroit-based Theatre Artist*\
Joe Giardina\
*New York City Theatre Artist*\
Julie Daniels\
*L.A.-based Playwright*\
Eric Marlin\
*New York-based Theatre Artist*\
Bella Poynton\
*SUNY AI Teaching Fellow*\
Emilio Rodriguez\
*Michigan-based Theatre Artist*

---

thanks

The Young Playwrights Festival (YPF) is celebrating its 29th anniversary
this year. What began as a new educational opportunity in 1996 has
grown into one of the most influential and respected theatre programs
in the state, allowing high school students to see their original work
come to life on stage. Presented collaboratively by Wharton Center and
the Michigan State University Department of Theatre, YPF is an annual
event showcasing original works written by high school students and
produced by university graduate and undergraduate students, creating
a collaborative and immersive program.

More than 30 scripts were submitted by Michigan high school students,
which were read by the initial screening committee. From the 12
semifinalists selected, six finalist scripts were chosen to be produced.
In March, student directors for the finalist plays held auditions with
rehearsals starting in May. Playwrights were assigned professional
theatre mentors who, over five weeks, advised the playwrights on
rewriting their plays.

MSU Department of Theatre students are stage-managing and
providing the technical crews for today’s performance, allowing college
students to engage in the learning experience and work with young
directors and writers to create their production.

Throughout its existence, YPF has fostered up-and-coming talent
by providing writers with the opportunity to work with creative
professionals. At its core, YPF has always been a celebration of the
original work submitted to the program every year. The participants
are dedicated to producing the student’s work and teaching lifelong
skills like creative thinking, professional writing, working with a team,
and leadership.

ABOUT THE YOUNG PLAYWRIGHTS FESTIVAL

Young Playwrights Festival

# **BLACK VIOLIN**

# FULL CIRCLE TOUR

Kev Marcus\
Violin

Wil Baptiste\
Viola/Vocals

Nat Stokes\
Drums

Liston Gregory III\
Keys

DJSPS\
Turntable



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Program to be announced from stage.

The performance will run approximately 75 minutes, with no intermission.


runtime

Black Violin members Wil Baptiste and Kev Marcus met
on the first day of orchestra class in 1996 at Dillard High
School of the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale.
Baptiste originally wanted to play saxophone in the band,
but the orchestra teacher got him assigned to his class
after winning a golf bet with the band instructor.
Classically trained by day, they faithfully put on their
headphones and listened to the hottest rap records each
night. They went to different colleges—Marcus attended
Florida International University and Baptiste went to
Florida State—but then reconvened, moved into an
apartment together, and started trying to produce other
musicians.

They developed an act covering hip-hop songs on their
violins, which became popular in local clubs. Two years
after sending in a tape to Showtime at the Apollo, they
were invited to appear on the show—which they won,
and kept winning. They were approached by the
manager of Alicia Keys, who asked them to perform with
the singer at the Billboard Awards. Other offers followed
shortly after. Black Violin toured with Mike Shinoda of
Linkin Park, opened for the Wu-Tang Clan, and worked
with the likes of Alessia Cara, 2 Chainz, and Lil Wayne. All
the while, Black Violin continued touring non-stop
playing as many as 200 shows a year, and released two
independent, self-financed albums before putting out
the acclaimed Stereotypes in 2016, followed by 2019’s
Take the Stairs, which was nominated for Best
Contemporary Instrumental Album at the 2020
Grammys.

Black Violin has always been about taking things further,
exceeding expectations, challenging conventions. The
duo has steadily built a devoted following and a diverse
touring base—culminating in such triumphs as two soldout
shows at the Kennedy Center with the National
Symphony Orchestra commemorating the 50th
anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s death, and
appearances on the Today Show, CBS Mornings, and PBS
Newshour—while occupying a musical lane that’s entirely
its own.

Black Violin’s work extends far beyond the stage,
reaching deep into communities nationwide with
numerous free performances for students and hands-on
engagement with youth symphonies and community
centers. Through collaborations with local and national
education programs such as Turnaround Arts, Baptiste
and Marcus connect with more than 100,000 students
throughout the year, including low-income and Title 1
schools, and adopted Bethune Elementary, in Florida’s
Broward County (near where they grew up) to initiate an
ongoing mentorship program. In 2019, the duo launched
the Black Violin Foundation, a non-profit organization
dedicated to empowering youth by working with them in
their communities to provide access to quality music
programs that encourage creativity and innovation.

About

Black Violin: Full Circle Tour

# **The Seasons**
# **Malandain Ballet Biarritz**

Director and Choreographer: **Thierry Malandain**\
Music: **Antonio Vivaldi & Giovanni Antonio Guido**

Company Members:

Alejandro Sánchez Bretones\
Allegra Vianello\
Chelsey Van Belle\
Claire Lonchampt\
Elisabeth Callebaut\
Giuditta Banchetti\
Guillaume Lillo\
Hugo Layer\
Irma Hoffren\
Julie Bruneau\
Julen Rodriguez Flores\
Laurine Viel\
Léo Wanner\
Loan Frantz\
Mickaël Conte\
Neil Ronsin\
Noé Ballot\
Patricia Velázquez\
Raphaël Canet\
Timothée Mahut\
Yui Uwaha

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Ballet-Biarritz.jpg

The performance will run approximately 60 minutes, with no intermission.

Media Partner: Michigan Public

---


Run time

**Antonio Vivaldi: Spring**\
Yui Uwaha and Mickaël Conte\
Noé Ballot, Giuditta Banchetti, Julie Bruneau, Elisabeth Callebaut, Raphaël Canet, Loan
Frantz, Irma HoIren, Hugo Layer, Claire Lonchampt, Julen Rodríguez Flores, Neil
Ronsin, Alejandro Sánchez Bretones, Patricia Velázquez, Allegra Vianello, Laurine Viel,
Léo Wanner


**Giovanni Guido: Spring**\
Time flies\
Every season runs away\
Julie Bruneau, Chelsey Van Belle, Guillaume Lillo, Timothée Mahut


Dance of the Shepherds\
Mickaël Conte


**Antonio Vivaldi: Summer**\
Laurine Viel and Loan Frantz\
Noé Ballot, Julie Bruneau, Giuditta Banchetti, Elisabeth Callebaut, Raphaël Canet,
Mickaël Conte, Irma HoIren, Hugo Layer, Guillaume Lillo, Claire Lonchampt, Timothée
Mahut, Julen Rodríguez Flores, Neil Ronsin, Alejandro Sánchez Bretones, Yui Uwaha,
Chelsey Van Belle, Patricia Velazquez, Allegra Vianello, Léo Wanner


**Giovanni Guido: Summer**\
The air is on fire\
Zephyr disappears\
Cuckoo song\
Allegra Vianello and Noé Ballot


Fly to our aid, O! Adorable Ceres\
Laurine Viel and Mickaël Conte


**Antonio Vivaldi: Autumn**\
Julie Bruneau and Alejandro Sánchez Bretones\
Noé Ballot, Giuditta Banchetti, Elisabeth Callebaut, Mickaël Conte, Loan Frantz, Irma
HoIren, Hugo Layer, Guillaume Lillo, Claire Lonchampt, Timothée Mahut, Neil Ronsin,
Julen Rodríguez Flores, Yui Uwaha, Patricia Velazquez, Chelsey Van Belle, Allegra
Vianello, Laurine Viel, Léo Wanner


**Giovanni Guido: Autumn**\
Celebrate the return of Autumn\
Giuditta Banchetti, Elisabeth Callebaut, Guillaume Lillo, Julen Rodríguez Flores


Allegro\
Laurine Viel, Mickaël Conte, Alejandro Sánchez Bretones

 
**Antonio Vivaldi: Winter**\
Allegra Vianello and Julen Rodríguez Flores\
Noé Ballot, Julie Bruneau, Giuditta Banchetti, Elisabeth Callebaut, Raphaël Canet,
Mickaël Conte, Loan Frantz, Irma HoIren, Hugo Layer, Guillaume Lillo, Timothée Mahut,
Neil Ronsin, Alejandro Sánchez Bretones, Yui Uwaha, Chelsey Van Belle, Patricia
Velázquez, Laurine Viel, Léo Wanner


**Giovanni Guido: Winter**\
The season of frost\
Elisabeth Callebaut, Irma HoIren, Guillaume Lillo, Timothée Mahut

The cruel North Wind declares war on us\
Laurine Viel, Allegra Vianello, Mickaël Conte, Alejandro Sánchez Bretones


Let the winds roar\
All dancers 


Premiere: November 25, 2023 at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes - Cannes Dance Festival - Côte d’Azur France  

---

## **Production**

**Set and Costume Designer:** Jorge Gallardo\
**Lighting:** François Menou\
**Costume Production:** Véronique Murat, Charlotte Margoux, assisted by Anaïs Abel\
**Set Production:** Frédéric Vadé\
**Accessories Production:** Annie Onchalo\
**Set and Props Assistants:** Nicolas Rochais, Gorka Arpajou, Félix Vermandé, Raphaël Jeanneret, Christof t’Siolle, Txomin Laborde-Peyre, Maruschka Miramon, Karine Prins, Sandrine Mestas Gleizes, Fanny Sudres et Fantine Goulot\
**Ballet Masters Ballet:** Richard Coudray, Giuseppe Chiavaro, Frederik Deberdt for 22 dancers

**Proposed by the Royal Opera of Versailles**

**Principal Co-Producer:** Château de Versailles Spectacles – Royal Opera of Versalles

**Co-Producers:** Festival de Danse de Cannes – Côte d’Azur France; Teatro Victoria Eugenia – Ballet T – Ville de Donostia San Sebastián; Opéra de Saint-Etienne; Theater Bonn – Allemagne, Teatro la Fenice – Venice, Italy; NCC Malandain Ballet Biarritz

**Partners:** Opéra de Reims; Espace Jéliote d’Oloron Sainte-Marie; Théâtre Olympia d’Arachon

**Sponsorships:** Fonds de dotation Malandain pour la Danse Suez; Association Amis du Malandain Ballet Biarritz; Carré des Mécènes du Malandain Ballet Biarritz


Production

## **Director’s Note**

Based on an idea by Laurent Brunner, Director of Château de Versailles Spectacles, and Stefan Plewniak, violinist and First Conductor of the Royal Opera of Versailles, this ballet intertwines Antonio Vivaldi's famous *Four Seasons* with several pages of *Le Quattro Stagioni dell'anno (The Four Seasons of the Year*), a little-known work by Giovanni Antonio Guido, contemporary and compatriot of the "Red Priest."

As for its accomplishment, beginning with arithmetic, under the influence of the number four, closely linked to creation, balance, and harmony, we can first say that Guido's *Seasons* awaken memories of *belle danse* (baroque dance), which emerged in the seventeenth century from the ideal of governing one's body and mind, and moving with grace, accuracy, and lightness. The number four is also associated with the Earth and the wheel of life, which does not always turn round smoothly, if not completely askew, given the ugliness, stupidity, and inhumanity that proliferate. With Vivaldi's *Seasons*, we are moved by a more natural, more human form of dance.

Finally, we spice things up with some poetic fantasy, and with these two words, you've got the basics. Against a backdrop of black petals spread across the horizon, winged beings mourn the loss of spirit and clarity. Why? Because the Seasons is only a ballet and there is nothing more serious than unbelievable things.

*—Thierry Malandain*


Having unfurled their passionate energy long before their publication in Amsterdam in 1725, the *Four Seasons* of Vivaldi form a cycle of four violin concertos naturally named *Spring, Summer, Autumn*, and *Winter.* Each title has three movements, whose main purpose is not virtuosity. New at the time, they were preceded by sonnets attributed to Vivaldi and provide a succession of pastoral scenes descriptively celebrating nature.

One of the most international opuses with more than a thousand recordings to date, not counting concerts, catalogs of telephone on-hold music and adverts, this universal hymn to nature, rediscovered in the mid-20th century, has the ability to please. Hence its immense popularity, hence also the weariness, or even the rejection that the work can arouse. Thus, after Igor Stravinsky stated in 1959, "Vivaldi is greatly overrated—a boring fellow who could compose the same form so many times," people talked about easy music to the point of saying, such as the composer Luigi Dallapiccola, or Stravinsky again, that "the red-headed priest" composed "the same concerto five hundred times." This is not true, and completely unfair.

That being said, in all their grandeur and in terms of their promise, it is true that the Venetian musician's *Four Seasons* has been exploited so much to the point of misunderstanding, they became old, repetitive melodies that can be irritating, cause total indifference, or in our case, overwhelm us with gloomy thoughts. Even more so in today's disillusioned and corrupt climate, where nature's deterioration constitutes an existential threat. In contrast, since the word nature literally means *birth*, Giovanni Antonio Guido's *The Four Seasons of the Year* should, because of their unique nature, provide a breath of fresh air, renewal and a reason for hope.

Published in Versailles around 1726, but perhaps earlier than Vivaldi's, since they may have been written around 1716 for the opening exhibition of four oval paintings by Jean-Antoine Watteau representing *The Four Seasons* which adorned the Paris mansion of Pierre Cozat, Treasurer of France, patron and collector. As for Guido, a first-rate Genoese violinist, he served Philippe d'Orléans, Regent of France, before entering the service of his son, Louis. Written in the French form of Suite de danses, like Vivaldi, the score sets four anonymous poems to music: *Les Caractères des saisons.* Guido attempted to describe seasonal changes by adding notes of green, blue, and very light pink. Rural deities, as in *Les Saisons* by Abbot Jean Pic, performed at the Royal Academy of Music from 1695 to 1722, with choreography by Louis Pécour. Accompanied by melodies composed by Pascal Collasse and Louis Lully, the ballet had four "entries," a sacred number associated with creation, balance, and harmony. Four doors that we will cross through to walk on the path of idealism.

How far will we go like this? I don't know ... Guido's bowing respectfully imitates the course of the seasons, but we are at theatre, where everything is false and gets lost in the atmosphere.

This is the nature of the choreographer's problem with the limits of his art. Whereas the solution, if we wish to continue gazing at nature when it opens its heart to spring, is to respect it without limits of pretense.

After the hymns to humanity and the living which comprised *Le Sang des étoiles* (2004), *Noé* (2017), *la Pastorale* (2019), *Sinfonia* (2020), ideally, *Les Quatre Saisons* should not become false in its attempts to be real.

*—Thierry Malandain, October 2022*

Created in 1998 in Biarritz on the initiative of the Ministry of Culture, and the Town of Biarritz with the support of Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region and the Atlantic Pyrenees Department, Malandain Ballet Biarritz is one of 19 National Choreographic Centres (NCC) in France today. 

The particularity of Malandain Ballet Biarritz is that it is made up of 22 permanent dancers trained in classical technique and whose expression in Thierry Malandain’s choreographies is contemporary. 

Today, Malandain Ballet Biarritz is one of Europe’s more widely seen companies with 100,000 spectators per season, and almost 100 performances per year, including a third abroad. 

As an NCC, Malandain Ballet Biarritz also works intensely in terms of public awareness of dance, with an average of over 450 events per year, and support of artists and companies thanks to the “Accueil Studio” program. 

To assist the development of young ballet choreographers, an International Competition is organized by the Biarritz NCC every two years, jointly with Bordeaux National Opera Ballet and the NCC Ballet of the Opera National du Rhin. Thierry Malandain and his teams pay special attention to supporting ballet and choreographers. 

Because of its specific geographic location, Malandain Ballet Biarritz has forged fruitful partnerships with many Euro-regional cultural participants. 

This is how the “Ballet T” project came to be, which is now managed by the Pôle Chorégraphique Territorial (Regional Choreographic Centre) in conjunction with the Basque Country Community. 

The NCC has been responsible for the Le Temps d’Aimer Dance Festival since 2021 which takes place every year in September. The 2023, edition attracted 34,000 spectators for 109 events throughout the Basque Country Community with an eclectic, international program. 


**THIERRY MALANDAIN, Director and Choreographer,** appointed at the Académie des beaux-arts in the Choreography Department and creator of more than 85 works, Thierry Malandain has developed a very personal vision of dance, closely linked to "Ballet," where priority is given to the dancing body, its power, virtuosity, humanity, and sensuality.

The search for meaning and aesthetics guide a powerful and sober style, which can be both serious and insolent, based on the pursuit of harmony between history and today's world. Thierry Malandain's troupe is comprised of dancers with classical dance training who express themselves in a contemporary way via Thierry Malandain's choreography.

"My culture is that of classical ballet and I confidently remain attached to it. Because while I readily admit that its artistic and social codes are from another time, I also think that this heritage from four centuries represents invaluable resources for dancers. A classical choreographer for some, a contemporary one for others, I play with it, simply trying to find a dance I like. A dance that will not only leave a lasting impression of joy, but that will also restore the essence of the sacred things and serve as a response to the difficulty of being."

**ALEJANDRO SÁNCHEZ BRETONES**, born in Elche, Spain. Trained in his hometown at the Escuela de Danza Pilar Sánchez, then with Sofía Sancho in Alicante. In 2011, he was accepted at the Escuela de Danza Víctor Ullate in Madrid and began his career in 2014 with the Víctor Ullate Ballet. Hired in Lisbon, Portugal in 2019 by the Companhia Nacional de Bailado (CNB), he then jointed the Malandain Ballet Biarritz in December 2020.

**ALLEGRA VIANELLO**, born in Venice, Italy. She trained at the Castelfranco Veneto School of Ballet from 2007 to 2011 and was then accepted at the English National Ballet School. She began her career in 2013 at the English National Ballet then joined the Ballet Cymru (UK) in 2014. She was hired by the Malandain Ballet Biarritz in October 2016.

**CHELSEY VAN BELLE**, born in Ostende, Belgium. Trained at the Royal Ballet School of Antwerp under the direction of Curtis Foley from 2018 to 2022. She has participated in numerous summer workshops and classes with the Royal Ballet of Flanders and Malandain Ballet Biarritz. In 2017, she was ranked in the top 12 at the Youth America Grand Prix. She began her career with Malandain Ballet Biarritz in September 2023.

**CLAIRE LONCHAMPT**, born in Sèvres. She trained in the Dance School of the Paris National Opera from 1998 to 2001. She continued her training at the European Dance Center, then was admitted in 2002 to the CNSMD in Paris where she joined the Junior Ballet in 2005. She began her career at the Zurich Ballet and then joined the Ballet of the National Opera of Finland in Helsinki in 2007. Later she was in Het National Ballet during 2010. She joined us in 2011.

**ELISABETH CALLEBAUT**, born in Courtrai, Belgium. She trained at the Antwerp Royal Ballet School l'École royale de Ballet d'Anvers directed by Kevin Durwael from 2019 to 2023. She also participated in several workshops and courses with the Nederlands Dans Theater, the European School of Ballet in Amsterdam, and the English National Ballet School. She danced with the Opera Ballet Vlaanderen before joining Malandain Ballet Biarritz in September 2024.

**GIUDITTA BANCHETTI**, born in Florence, Italy. She studied at the Scuola Accademica Danza Sad in Florence, Italy and is a graduate of the Marika Besobrasova method. She then joined the New English Ballet Theatre in London in 2017. She was awarded the 2018 Grand Prix in the first edition of Dance Project Charles Jude Association's international classical dance exams in Florence sponsored by the Serge Lifar Foundation. She joined Malandain Ballet Biarritz in October 2018.

**GUILLAUME LILLO**, born in Joinville-le-Pont. He studied at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Danse de Paris (Paris National Conservatory of Music and Dance), then joined the Ballet Junior troupe in 2011. In 2012, He danced with the Scottish Ballet (UK) for one season before joining the Israel Ballet company in 2013. He joined Malandain Ballet Biarritz in 2015.

**HUGO LAYER**, born in Sens. He studied at the Conservatoire de Sens until 2007, and then at the National Superior Conservatory of Paris for Music and Dance. Meanwhile, he took part in the creation of Rhapsody in blue with Cathy Bisson, played a role in the French television film Fais danser la poussière (Make the dust dance) by Christian Faure and Marie Dô and was chosen to be the soloist in Clowns by Pietragalla/Derouault company. He joined Malandain Ballet Biarritz in 2013.

**IRMA HOFFREN**, born in San Sebastián (Spain). She studied at the Thalia Dance School in San Sebastian, and then furthered her training with Maria de Avila and Carmen Roche. She joined Ballet Biarritz Junior from 2005 to 2008, then NCC-Ballet de Lorraine, under the direction of Didier Deschamps. She entered Malandain Ballet Biarritz in 2012.

**JULIE BRUNEAU**, born in Bayonne. Trained at the Maurice Ravel Basque Country Conservatory in Biarritz, and she joined the Toulouse VM Ballet in 2014. She gained professional experience with the VM Ballet, the Bordeaux National Opera Ballet, the Toulouse Capitole Ballet, the Magdeburg Ballet in Germany and participated in the production Mon Premier Lac des cygnes (My First Swan Lake) directed by Karl Paquette. She joined Malandain Ballet Biarritz in July 2021.

**JULEN RODRIGUEZ FLORES**, born in Ibarra, Spain. He started with Basque dance before moving to Madrid at the age of 17 to learn classical and contemporary dance at the Conservatorio Mariemma. He began his career with the Metamorphosis dance company then joined the Dantzaz company in San Sebastián, Spain in 2019. He joined Malandain Ballet Biarritz in July 2021.

**LAURINE VIEL**, born in Paris. She began dancing with Virginia Cosnier at the Villejuif Municipal Conservatory. Then, in 2005, she attended the National Superior Conservatory of Music and Dance in Paris, before joining its Junior Ballet Classic in 2009. She joined Malandain Ballet Biarritz in 2011.

**LÉO WANNER**, born in Marseille. After training in Italy for six years at the Accademia Teatro Alla Scala de Milan, he graduated in 2021 before joining the Cannes Jeune Ballet Rosella Hightower. He joined the Malandain Ballet Biarritz in September 2022.

**LOAN FRANTZ**, born in Tinago Camalig Albay (Philippines). Trained at the Conservatoire à rayonnement régional of Toulouse, then at the Ecole de danse de l'Opéra National of Paris, he began his career in 2012 at the Ballet Nice Méditerranée directed by Eric Vu-An. He joined the Ballet de l'Opéra National de Bordeaux directed by Charles Jude in 2013, then the Ballet de l'Opéra Théâtre de Metz under the direction of Laurence Bolsigner in 2016. He finally joined the Malandain Ballet Biarritz in 2017.

**MICKAËL CONTE**, born in Libourne. He trained at the National Conservatory de Bordeaux in 2001. He joined the Ballet Biarritz Junior in 2006 and then joined the NCC-Ballet de Lorraine directed by Didier Deschamps. He joined Malandain Ballet Biarritz in 2011.

**NEIL RONSIN**, born in Toulon, France. He trained at the Pôle National Supérieur de Danse (PNSD) Rosella Hightower in Cannes starting in 2016 and earned a National Postgraduate Occupational Diploma. His career began in 2023 with the Cannes Junior Ballet Rosella Hightower and he then joined the Malandain Ballet Biarritz in September 2024.

**NOÉ BALLOT**, born in Amilly. Trained at the Montargis Conservatory, then at the Orleans Departmental Conservatory; he studied at the Paris National Opera School of Dance from 2013 to 2016, then at the Lipszyc Ballet School in Biarritz until 2018. He then enrolled at the Paris Conservatory College of School and Dance as a student to obtain a national postgraduate vocational dance degree (DNSPD). He joined Malandain Ballet Biarritz in July 2021.

**PATRICIA VELÁZQUEZ**, born in Guadalajara (Mexico). She studied at the Royal Academy of Dance of London, from 1994 to 2003. She was then admitted to the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School in Canada from 2003 to 2005, before joining the Royal Ballet Academy of Guadalajara. She started her career in Mexico in the Compañia de Danza Clásica y Neoclásica de Jalisco in Guadalajara in 2009. She was then engaged in the Compannia Nacional de Danza in 2010, and in the Monterray Ballet in 2011. She joined Malandain Ballet Biarritz in 2012.

**RAPHAËL CANET**, born in Avignon. He studied at the Regional Conservatory in Avignon, before joining the Ballet of the National Opera of Bordeaux. Hired in 2009 in Dantzaz Konpainia, he joined Malandain Ballet Biarritz in 2011.

**TIMOTHÉE MAHUT**, born in Nancy, France. Trained at the Conservatoire of Nancy and at the Basel Theatre Ballet School in Switzerland from 2017 to 2020, then at the Northern Ballet in England in 2020. He joined the Europa Danse Company in Brussels in August 2021, then the Junior Ballet of Zürich in August 2022 where he danced choreographies of Crystal Pite, Hans Van Manen et Christian Spuck. He was hired by Malandain Ballet Biarritz in September 2023.

**YUI UWAHA**, born in Nagoya, Japan. She studied at the National Ballet School of Canada from 2007 to 2011 then at the Dutch National Ballet Academy in Amsterdam from 2011 to 2013. In 2012, she began an internship at the Dutch National Ballet directed by Ted Brandsen, then she was hired by the Opéra de Nice Ballet directed by Eric Vu-An in March 2013, where she played demi-soloist roles in ballets by Maurice Béjart, Jiri Kylian, Roland Petit and Nacho Duato just to name a few. She joined the Malandain Ballet Biarritz in 2019.

Malandain Ballet Biarritz: The Seasons

# **Ready, Set, Zydeco with Terrance Simien and the Zydeco Experience**

**Terrance Simien**\
lead vocals, accordion, rubboard

**Danny Williams**\
vocals, keyboards

**Stan Chambers**\
vocals, bass

**Ian Molinaro-Thompson**\
drums

**Noah Boshra**\
saxophone, rubboard

**Emanuel Mitchell**\
trumpet


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The performance will run approximately 60 minutes, with no intermission.

Media Partner: WKAR


Celebrating 25 years of sharing Zydeco and Creole history. 

When it comes to Creole culture and Zydeco music, two-time Grammy Award winning Terrance Simien and the Zydeco Experience represent hard. They also represent the past, the present, and future of American roots music. This six-piece intergenerational and multicultural group is highly skilled, formally trained, and are very experienced performers. In all things, experience still matters—a lot. Their performance and hypnotic brew of Zydeco roots, reggae, gospel funk, and New Orleans jazz is expertly curated to create an unforgettable and joyful experience. 

True to himself and his deep Creole roots, Terrance Simien personifies authenticity as he continues to redefine his genre and elevate its visibility. Now enjoying legendary status of an accomplished 40+ year career, Simien, his bandmates, and creative collaborators have toured to more than 40 countries and performed over 9000 concerts. 

Their music has been featured in multiple theatre released films, and the band has made multiple on-screen appearances as well. Terrance collaborated with the legendary Randy Newman on Disney’s *The Princess and The Frog*, the first animated blockbuster hit film featuring Black princess, Tiana, and the music of New Orleans and Zydeco. In 2024, Disney added the “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure” ride to their U.S. theme parks featuring “Gonna Take You There” by Terrance Simien and the Zydeco Experience with Marcella Simien.

In 2000, Simien developed the only program of its kind, Creole for Kidz and the History of Zydeco youth, family, and student educational program for K-12 and college audiences. This dynamic live performance paired with an in-depth study guide celebrates 25 years of raising the cultural IQ of 250,000 students, parents, teachers, and administrators around the globe.

The Creole 4 Kidz! program, is an innovative, high quality, multicultural music performance led by Simien, whose family is documented in history books as one of the first families of Louisiana. With expert knowledge of his music and Creole history, Simien gently guides youth, student, and family audiences on a journey to explore one of the most unique subcultures in North America. Many teachers have called the program “stealth education” which is a teaching method that integrates learning objectives into enjoyable activities, as research has long shown that children learn best when they’re having fun.

Terrance Simien and the Zydeco Experience

Ready, Set, Zydeco

# **Broadway's Next Hit Musical**

Cast\
**Deb Rabbai**\
**Rob Schiffmann**\
**Heidi Gleichauf**\
**Pat Swearingen**

**George Luton**, Music Director\
**Greg Triggs**, Emcee

Co-Artistic Directors\
**Deb Rabbai**\
**Rob Schiffmann**

Co-Producers\
**Ralph Buckley**\
**Deb Rabbai**\
**Rob Schiffmann**\
**Greg Triggs**


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The performance will run approximately 85 minutes.

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Improv, Stand-up Comedy, & Live Music made up ON THE SPOT!

Every song is fresh. Every scene is new. Every night is different. It’s all improvised and it’s all funny.

The hysterical Broadway’s Next Hit Musical is the only unscripted theatrical awards show. Master improvisers gather made up, hit song suggestions from the audience, and create a spontaneous evening of music, humor, and laughter. The audience votes for their favorite song and watches as the cast turns it into a full-blown improvised musical - complete with memorable characters, witty dialogue, and plot twists galore. BNHM has been seen recently at The Triad, Tribeca Film Festival, and at the New York Musical Theater Festival, among many others.

---

Media Partner: Michigan Public

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HEIDI GLEICHAUF

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GEORGE LUTON

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DEB RABBAI

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ROB SCHIFFMANN

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PAT SWEARINGEN

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GREG TRIGGS

**HEIDI GLEICHAUF**, *performer*, has toured nationwide with *Broadway's Next Hit Musical* since 2020. 22 states and counting! She has worked as an improviser and interactive performer for companies like CAMP, Strategic Entertainment, Sterling Renaissance Faire, and "Bloom" with HERO NYC. You can also see her as a vocalist on Top View Tours' "Tea Around Town" in NYC. You may recognize Heidi's voice from video content she created and performed for "TBTV Toy Adventures" and Dreamworks TV on YouTube, with her top performing video at nine million views! Her most buoyant gig has been sailing the European seas as "The Artist" with Virgin Voyages. When she's not onstage, you can find her saving sidewalk worms and finding four-leaf clovers. BFA Hofstra. IG @heidsg

**GEORGE LUTON**, *Music Director,* is an internationally regarded musical theatre composer, conductor, and accompanist. Their original musicals have been launched Off-Broadway through the York Theatre's GenYork concert series, at Lincoln Center through the NYPL Across a Crowded Room program, and at the Tank NYC. George also serves as a music director and arranger for shows in development at Off the Lane, Theatre Now, Columbia University School of the Arts, Prospect Theatre Company, and more. They are a member of the BMI Lehman Engel Musical Theatre Workshop, and they appreciate every chance to perform with *Broadway's Next Hit Musical*! Learn more on Instagram [@GeorgeLuton.music](https://www.instagram.com/georgeluton.music/?hl=en) and [www.GeorgeLuton.com](http://www.georgeluton.com/)

**DEB RABBAI**, *Co-Artistic Director, Co-Producer, Performer,* is an original member and co-creator of *Broadway's Next Hit Musical*. A native New Yorker, Deb has worked as an actor, improviser, singer, and voiceover artist for the last twenty-five years. Deb became the Co-Artistic Director of BNHM in 2009 and has proudly witnessed its progress into the hilarious hit it is today. A graduate of The American Academy of Dramatic Arts in NYC, Deb spent ten years performing and teaching improvisation with Freestyle Repertory Theatre (TheatreSports New York), five years performing with ComedySportz NY, and seven years with the Chicago City Limits national touring company. Deb is a highly experienced teacher of improvisation and acting, having worked at NYU, Marymount Manhattan College, The American Comedy Institute, NY Film Academy, and American Musical and Dramatic Academy in NYC. Deb successfully created programs that teach curriculum through improvisation. These programs have been integrated into public schools in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Deb has appeared on *Late Night with Conan O'Brien* and in national commercials for MasterCard, Wendy's, and Zyrtec. Deb has done countless voiceovers, ranging from radio and TV advertisements to video games and anime films. For more information, please visit [www.DebRabbai.com](http://www.DebRabbai.com)

**ROB SCHIFFMANN**, *Co-Artistic Director, Co-Producer, Performer,* has worked and toured as a professional actor, improviser, and musician for just over thirty years. As a two-time MAC (Manhattan Association of Cabarets and Clubs) Award winner, and the recipient of the 2011 INNY (Improvisation News) Award for Best Improv Coach, Rob's musical, improv, and teaching talents are known across the country and around the world. Rob was recently featured on *The Today Show*, where he sang his original song "Ready to 30 Rock." When Rob is not making national and international audiences laugh hysterically with BNHM, he can be found emceeing corporate events, and designing and leading workshops for other improvisational companies, as well as major corporations such as Bank of America, Microsoft, Cartier, Pfizer, and many others, including numerous Fortune 500 companies. *The New York Times* called Rob "fabulously perfect," and *The New York Post* says, "I don't know whether he's more of a genius as a comedic performer or a comic writer!" Rob has also showcased his skills on *The Daily Download* and *The CBS Early Show.* Rob has also released two albums of original songs with his song-writing partner for their acoustic-pop band,[ The Hillary Step](http://thehillarystep.com), for which he is the main writer, lead singer, guitarist, bass player, keyboardist, and Music Director. For more information, please visit[ www.robschiffmann.com](http://www.robschiffmann.com/).

**PAT SWEARINGEN**, *Performer*, has been in countless shows from *As You Like It* to *How To Succeed in Business*. Pat Swearingen is a classically trained actor who honed his comedy chops at the renowned Peoples Improv Theater in New York City where he still performs and teaches regularly. Check out [Pat Swearingen Comedy Acting Reel 2024 ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFjnsryHaXg&t=8s) on YouTube and hire him for all the things!

**GREG TRIGGS**, *Emcee, Co-Producer,* Performance: Disney's Comedy Warehouse, the Brave New Workshop, and Chicago City Limits. Writer/director: Disney, the NFL, the Tribeca Film Festival, the World Science Festival, Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas, and the Scholastic Harry Potter series. TV: BBC, ABC, TLC, Oxygen, the Discovery Channel, and Nickelodeon. Greg's radio show, *Travels with Triggs* can be heard on Catskills Public Radio or as a podcast, available on all platforms. He also appears with and co-produces Yarnslingers, a writer's group performing memoir essays. Greg's novels *The Next Happiest Place on Earth* and *That Which Makes Us Stronger* are available on Amazon. Blog entries, and more at [www.GregTriggs.com](http://www.gregtriggs.com/) and [www.StrategicEntertainmentNYC.com](http://www.strategicentertainmentnyc.com/).

Bios

Broadway's Next Hit Musical

Chicago Razzle II LLC presents

# **Chicago**


Lyrics by **Fred Ebb**

Music by **John Kander**

Book by **Fred&nbsp;Ebb&nbsp;&&nbsp;Bob&nbsp;Fosse**

Based on the play by Maurine&nbsp;Dallas&nbsp;Watkins 

Original Production Directed and Choreographed by **Bob&nbsp;Fosse**

Starring

- **Taylor Lane**      
- **Ellie Roddy**
- **Connor Sullivan**
- **Andrew Metzger**

Also Starring

1. **Illeana “illy” Kirven**            
2. **D. Fillinger**

- Malachi Alexander    
- Lindsay Lee Alhady     
- Timothy Scott Brausch     
- Faith Jordan Candino     
- Christopher Cline     
- Teryn Cuozzo     
- Josh England     
- Roberto Facchin     
- Serena Kozusko     
- Zoie Lee     
- Eliza Levy     
- Ryan McInnes     
- Emiliano Morales              
- Simeon Rawls     
- Angelliz M. Rosado Ramos     
- Brad Weatherford     
- Christina Youngblood

&nbsp;

- Scenic Design\
**John Lee Beatty**    
 - Costume Design\
**William Ivey Long**
- Lighting Design\
**Ken Billington**
- Sound Design\
**Scott Lehrer**
- Supervising\
Music Director\
**Robert Billig**
- Music\
Director/Coordinator\
**Cameron Blake**\
**Kinnear**
- Orchestrations\
**Ralph Burns**
- Vocal  Arrangements\
**Rob Fisher**
- Associate Costume\
Designer\
**Donald Sanders**
- Wig & Hair Design\
**Bernie Ardia**
- Makeup Designer\
**Justen M. Brosnan**
- Dance Music\
Arrangements\
**Peter Howard**
- Script Adaptation\
**David Thompson**
- Associate\
Conductor\
**Andy Chen**
- Casting\
**ARC**\
**Patrick Maravilla** 
- Tour Marketing\
& Press\
**Anita Dloniak**\
**Melissa A. Hazek**
- Production Stage\
Manager\
**Lauryn Elizabeth**
- Production Supervisor\
**Bethany Sortman**
- Associate Producer\
**Lauren L. Sobon**\
**Brian J. Enzman**
- Production Manager\
**Russell A. Thompson**
- General Manager\
**Ryan Parliment**
- General Management\
**APEX Touring**
- Executive Producer\
**William T. Prather**

1. Re-creation of Original\
Production Choreography\
**Gregory Butler**
2. Re-creation of Original\
Production Direction\
**David Hyslop**

Choreographer Original New York Production\
**Ann Reinking**\
in the style of Bob Fosse

Director Original New York Production\
**Walter Bobbie**

Based on the presentation by City Center’s Encores!

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**THE SCENE:**\
Chicago, Illinois. The late 1920s.


THE SCENE:

- Overture	
- The Band and Company
---
- “All That Jazz”	
- Velma and Company 
---
- “Funny Honey”	
- Roxie
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- “Cell Block Tango”	
- Velma and Girls
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- “When You’re Good to Mama”	
- Matron “Mama” Morton
---
- “Tap Dance”	
- Roxie, Amos and Boys 
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- “All I Care About”	
- Billy and Girls 
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- “A Little Bit of Good”	
- Mary Sunshine
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- “We Both Reached for the Gun”	
- Billy, Roxie, Mary Sunshine and Company
---
- “Roxie”	
- Roxie and Boys
---
- “I Can’t Do It Alone”	
- Velma
---
- “My Own Best Friend”	
- Roxie and Velma
---

**INTERMISSION**

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- Entr’acte	
- The Band
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- “I Know a Girl”	
- Velma
---
- “Me and My Baby”	
- Roxie and Boys
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- “Mister Cellophane”	
- Amos
---
- “When Velma Takes the Stand”	
- Velma and Boys
---
- “Razzle Dazzle”	
- Billy and Company
---
- “Class”	
- Velma and Matron “Mama” Morton
---
- “Nowadays”	
- Roxie and Velma
---
- “Hot Honey Rag”	
- Roxie and Velma
---
- Finale	
- Company
---

Original choreography for “Hot Honey Rag” by **Bob Fosse**


Musical Numbers

**ORCHESTRA**

- Music Director and Conductor:
- **CAMERON BLAKE KINNEAR**
- Associate Conductor:
- **ANDY CHEN**
- Piano and Assistant Conductor:
- **BRENT C. MAULDIN**
- Reed 1:
- **JASON WHITMORE**
- Reed 2:
- **HEATHER KRIESEL**
- Reed 3:
- **CLAY STEINER**
- Trumpet 1:
- **JORDAN WEBB**
- Trumpet 2:
- **WILL ESPOSITO**
- Trombone:
- **ANDY SHARKEY**
- Banjo/Mandolin/Ukulele:
- **TRAVIS WELCH**
- Tuba/Bass:
- **GARRETT SULLIVAN**
- Percussion:
- **JASON CHAFATELLI**



Hamilton

Sutton Foster Awards

Young Playwrights Festival

Black Violin: Full Circle Tour

Malandain Ballet Biarritz: The Seasons

Ready, Set, Zydeco

Broadway's Next Hit Musical

Chicago

Tatiana Eva-Marie

Michael Palascak

Menopause The Musical 2: Cruising Through the Change®

Jazz at Lincoln Center Presents: New Orleans Songbook

The Acting Company: August Wilson’s Two Trains Running

Life of Pi

Pink Martini Featuring China Forbes

The Peking Acrobats

Sphinx Virtuosi

Club 750 Comedy: Kevin Bozeman

Club 750 Music: Brandon Woody’s UPENDO

Goodnight Moon and The Runaway Bunny

MOMIX: Alice

Time for Three

Shucked

Club 750: Gabriel Kahane

Club 750: Tammy Pescatelli

Mariachi Herencia de México: A Mariachi Christmas

Family Magic with Bill Blagg

Ana Gasteyer – Sugar and Booze

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets™ In Concert

Of Equal Place: Isotopes in Motion

STOMP

Club 750: Cameron Graves

Club 750: Greg Morton

Mandy Patinkin In Concert: Being Alive With Adam Ben-David on piano

London Philharmonic Orchestra

The Rocky Horror Picture Show

Les Misérables

Dee Dee Bridgewater and Bill Charlap