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Grantors

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Sponsors

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Donors

Donors

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Meet Our Donors

Tributes

Tributes

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Our Tributes

Performers

Dhriti Arora

*

Enid Hoopes

Amy Baldwin

*

Paulette/Brook Wyndham

Devin Bennett

*

Pforzheimer

Alex Birchenall

*

Winthrop

Charlotte Black

*

Pilar

Candy Braga

*

Bruiser

Mariann Burgos-Ramirez

*

Ensemble

Julia Clemmons

*

Ensemble

Patrick Collier

*

Chase Croft

*

Aaron Schultz

Ava Curtis

*

Margot

Danard Daniels Jr.

*

Male Ensemble

Elliott Davidoff

*

Elle Woods

Anderson Davies

*

Emmett Forrest

Rachel Dowling

*

Ensemble

Katya Ferrer

*

Serena

Kamden Feth

*

Greek Chorus

Christopher Fouche

*

Pforzheimer

Mariana Oliveira Gandin

*

Kate

Sophia Gegg

*

Elle Woods

Lisa Graye

*

Elle Woods

Daniel Goebel Guzmán

*

Professor Callahan

Christian Maxwell Henry

*

Male Ensemble

Andre Hinds

*

Emmett

Sarah Jordan

*

Vivienne

Claire Juneau

*

Brooke Wyndham

Erin Kei

*

Vivienne Kensington

Mercedes Dawnte Long

*

Margot

Amelia Lusk

*

Courtney/Ensemble

Zara Lwin

*

Ensemble

Lizzie Markson

*

Enid Hoops/Leilani

Veronica Marrero

*

Greek Chorus

Andrew Mauney

*

Professor Callahan/Kyle

Carrington Meyer

*

Serena

Payton Moledor

*

Pilar

Chloe Morris

*

Ensemble

Noor Nawaz

*

Ensemble

Saavan Ohri

*

Sundeep Agrawal Padamadan

Basil Laredo Redman

*

Basil - Paulette's Dog

Lily Pilar Redman

*

Paulette

Selena Robinson

*

Texas

Alexa Stewart

*

Delta Nu - Greek Chorus

Logan T. Sutton

*

Warner

Dominic Tarantino

*

Warner Huntington III

Abby Walsh

*

Chutney Wyndham

Hayden Wilcox

*

Ensemble

Setting

Present Day Join us as we travel from the pink-clad sorority house of Delta Nu in Malibu, CA to the hallowed halls of Harvard Law.
There will be a 15 minute intermission. Class of 2024 Senior Recognition will follow the 2PM performance on April 20th

Songs & Scenes

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Production Staff

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Venue Staff

School Administration Staff

Head Of School
Dr. Mitchell Salerno
Assistant Head Of School
Alexander Birchenall
Finance Director
Logan Senelis-Jose
Director of Admissions and Marketing
Angel Nguyen
High School Director
Steve Murphy
Middle School Director
MaryBeth Davies
Lower School Director
Stephanie Jackson
Director of Fine Arts
Rosemarie Redman
Director of Technology
Nick Purdue
Director of Campus Events
Laine Allen
Director of Student Services
Gemma Wise-Beaumont
Director of Athletics
Patrick Hollern
Director of Residential Life
Stephane Allagnon
Director of Facilities
Steve Sheehan

Musicians

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Board Members

Student Advisory Board

Credits

Lighting equipment from PRG Lighting, sound equipment from Sound Associates, rehearsed at The Public Theater’s Rehearsal Studios. Developed as part of Irons in the Fire at Fault Line Theatre in New York City.

Special Thanks

Special Thanks...

Thank you to our WPS Adminstration, Faculty and Staff for the continued support of the arts at our school. The parents of our cast and crew who also commit to this process along side your cast member, thank you.  The Clemmon's Family & Fazoli's of Clermont for the cast meal.  Polka Dogz for allowing the cast and crew to raise awareness for adopting rescued dogs.  Our teacher's who made guest appearances in our show! Alex Birchenall for his support and for making his WPS debut in Legally Blonde.  Joe Stone and the WPS Drum Line for joining us and adding so much to the musical number, "What You Want"! The Applause Awards Program for providing the opportunity for our student actors to participate and become the best versions of themselves.  Our audiences, without your love, encouragement and support productions like this would not possible!  Thank you!

Fazoli's Announces Grand Opening of Nineteenth Location in Missouri
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*Appearing through an Agreement between this theatre and Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.

Actors’ Equity Association (“Equity”), founded in 1913, is the U.S. labor union that represents more than 51,000 actors and stage managers, Equity fosters the art of live theatre as an essential component of society and advances the careers of its members by negotiating wages, improving working conditions and providing a wide range of benefits, including health and pension plans. Actors’ Equity is a member of the AFL-CIO and is affiliated with FIA, an International organization of performing arts unions. www.actorsequity.org

United Scenic Artists ● Local USA 829 of the I.A.T.S.E represents the Designers & Scenic Artists for the American Theatre

ATPAM, the Association of Theatrical Press Agents & Managers (IATSE Local 18032), represents the Press Agents, Company Managers, and Theatre Managers employed on this production.

Director's Note...

Welcome to the WPS High School Musical Theatre production of Legally Blonde. 

When selecting a musical each year, the goal is to always introduce the students with a new style of theatre that continues to provide them with the ability to grow as performers, technicians, designers, and individuals.  This year we decided to step into the genre of contemporary musical theatre exploring the phenomenon of musicals based on movies. Legally Blonde has offered students opportunities to explore and create believable contemporary characters while applying contemporary vocal technique with energetic choreography. Throughout the rehearsal process many students demonstrated their leadership skills and creativity by designing marketing materials, creating production projection, setting choreography, aiding in scenic development, and designing props. We are so proud to continue to watch our students grow and be inspired in the theatre

Legally Blonde wouldn’t be possible without a few very important and talented people. Thank you to the unbelievably supportive WPS administration, staff, and community. Whether you are on stage or in the audience, your support is very much appreciated. Thank you also to the parents who continue to support their students' love for the theatre. To my wonderful students: thank you for the laughs and for always trusting and respecting me. I love you all so much! The biggest thank you to my wonderful team who I never want to make theatre without. Nick Prowse, we make great theatre!!! Thank you for allowing me to think big, and only saying no to my ideas occassionally. Jacqueline Blimline, I’m beyond thankful that our paths have finally aligned. Your eye for the little details in this production have taken things to the next level. Ledean Williams is the best musical director ever! Thank you for understanding me and the students and jumping right in. We are so thankful to have you on the team. There are always a few spots in a show that can be challenging. Ryan Lingle, thank you for being my savior and tackling the choreography that is so YOU and becoming a part of the HS Theatre Department. To my wonderful leader, Rosemarie Redman, none of the amazing things that happened for the high school theatre program this year could have happened without you and your support. I am thankful for you every day. Mom– I love you! Thank you for always being here. You’ve never missed a show! Jonathan and Cooper, I love you so much! Thank you for being my biggest fans and supporting my love for high school theatre! 

Legally Blonde serves as a reminder that true success comes from embracing who we are and celebrating our strengths. As 45 amazing WPS theatre students take you on Elle Woods's journey, I invite you to join us in celebrating the power of individuality and following your dreams. May this production of Legally Blonde inspire you to chase your passions, defy expectations, and always believe in the power of being yourself.

Cast
Creatives

Meet the Cast

Dhriti Arora

*

Enid Hoopes
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:
she/her

Dhriti is excited to participate in Legally Blonde as her first high school show with Windermere Preparatory School. She has been on the stage since the age of nine and appeared as Mrs. Corry in last year's middle school production of Mary Poppins Junior. Over the years, she has performed in six musical productions and loves performing in comedic roles. When not on stage, Dhriti loves to read and spend time with loved ones. 

Amy Baldwin

*

Paulette/Brook Wyndham
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Amy Baldwin has performed in over 70 regional theatre productions between DC and Seattle, and was seen last at Mill Mountain Theatre in Mamma Mia! and Next to Normal. She is an avid hiker and believes that dogs are the best--particularly rescue dogs. (Her 17 year-old pup, Al Pacino, encourages you to consider adopting an older dog!)

Devin Bennett

*

Pforzheimer
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Devin Bennett is a husband, father, teacher, coach and newly annointed thespian. He has worked at Windermere Prep since 2017.

Alex Birchenall

*

Winthrop
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Alex Birchenall is thrilled to be a part of this year's high school production of Legally Blonde and to share the stage with such an incredibly talented group of students.  He is in his first year at WPS and serves as the assistant head of school.  Mr. Birchenall never participated in theatre when he was a student in school, but in recent years he has performed in middle and school productions of Addams Family, Oliver!, and Music Man.  As a parent and a school leader, he is a passionate supporter of education and the arts, and loves that WPS offers such amazing opportunities for students to explore and pursue excellence in the world of theatre.  Special thanks to Mrs. Fadoul, Mrs. Redman, Mr. Prowse, and all of the other faculty and staff who make this all possible.  Enjoy the show!

Charlotte Black

*

Pilar
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Charlotte Black is thrilled to take on the role of Pillar in this production of "Legally Blonde"! Her previous roles include Madame Curie in the school fall production of "Radium Girls" and an ensemble role in the SECT (South Eastern Theater Conference) 1st Runner up one act "The Servant Of Two Masters" where she was also a part of the costume crew. She looks forward to continuing to participate in next year's upcoming productions as an upcoming inductee of the International Thespian Society. She is so grateful for the opportunity to participate in this amazing program!

Candy Braga

*

Bruiser
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Candy steps into the role of "Bruiser" in Legally Blonde, marking her debut in the spotlight.

3 years ago, she became the happiest addition to the Braga family, bringing joy to all people around her! Her enthusiastic presence adds a delightful energy to the cast that captures audiences from start to finish.

Mariann Burgos-Ramirez

*

Ensemble
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Mariann is a junior at Windermere Prep originally from North Carolina, who developed a passion for performing since fourth grade. In addition to being an IB Diploma student, Mariann is a member and elected secretary of Thespian Troupe 6902 and the junior class Student Government as well as vice president of the Health Occupation Students of America club at WPS and a member of the Girl’s Weightlifting team. Past credits at WPS include: Ensemble in Curtains and Bye Bye Birdie, Mrs. Gardiner in Pride and Prejudice, and Dr. VonSochocky in Radium Girls.

Julia Clemmons

*

Ensemble
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Julia Clemmons is excited to join the cast of Legally Blonde! She has been on the stage at WPS since lower school, appearing in productions such as  Mary Poppins and Radium Girls. Julia is in 9th grade and is very passionate about the arts, especially musical theatre, and she is hoping to become an involved thespian throughout her time in high school.

Patrick Collier

*

(
)
(
)
Pronouns:
He/Him

Patrick Collier is the Graphics Design and Yearbook Instructor at Windermere Preparatory School. 

Chase Croft

*

Aaron Schultz
(
Fritz
)
(
Fritz
)
Pronouns:

Chase is a Sophmore at Windermere Prep and is thrilled to be a part of Legally Blonde. Chase has loved the stage ever since he first stepped on at the age of 7. He was recently seen on stage at Windermere Prep as Oscar in Curtains and Charley in Charley's Aunt. He is excited to see what the future has in store and plans to enjoy every second he gets to spend on stage.

Ava Curtis

*

Margot
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Omigod you guys! Ava Curtis is so excited to perform again at WPS! Prior roles include Georgina Darcy in Pride & Prejudice and Ela Delahay in the award winning Charley’s Aunt.  Ava has also appeared on stage as Belinda Crachett in Christmas Carol at Orlando Shakes, Young Cosette in Les Miserables at Dr. Phillips Center, Wednesday Adams in The Addams Family at Theatre South Playhouse, and Louisa Von Trapp in Sound of Music at CFCArts. She has received Top Honors for a duet scene at Thespians districts, and Third Place at the ESU Shakespeare competition. Ava has also been in several short films including To Catch a Faerie, receiving a Best Actress nomination from Orlando Independent Filmmakers. Ava is grateful for her family and friends for their support, sends love to her fellow greek chorus, and truly believes being true to yourself never goes out of style.

Danard Daniels Jr.

*

Male Ensemble
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Danard is a Virginia native from Norfolk and he is thrilled to be back with MMT. He was cast in Dreamgirls, but due to Covid-19, we weren't able to perform. So now, he is back with us! Previous works are Vstar's Sesame Street Live Tour and Paw Patrol Live! A Great Pirate Adventure National Tour; Beef and Boards' Dinner Theatre Hairspray and Disney's The Little Mermaid. He also performed with amusement parks such as Busch Gardens and Kings Dominion. When he is not performing, he plays video games, designs/sells crochet garments, and studies with ASU Online  B.S Graphic Information Technology (Full-Stack Web Development).

Elliott Davidoff

*

Elle Woods
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Elliott is a sophomore has been performing with WPS for 8 years! She loves to be on stage with her friends more than anything. Recent WPS performances include The Servant Of Two Masters, Radium Girls, Curtains, Pride and Prejudice, and more! She is a member of Troupe 6902, and is so exited for competition season next year. Outside of theatre she loves to spend time with her friends, listen to, and play music. She is so greatful for the opportunity to play Elle with one of her favorite people ever 💕

Anderson Davies

*

Emmett Forrest
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Anderson Davies is a senior who has been at WPS since he was born. Anderson has been involved in the theatre program at WPS for all 4 years of high school. This is Anderson's last theatre production on the WPS stage and is very excited to be playing Emmett Forrest in Legally Blonde. After WPS, Anderson will be pursuing dance at the collegiate level and continue performing. He is very sad that his journey is coming to an end but is so grateful for the experience he has had.

Rachel Dowling

*

Ensemble
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Rachel Dowling is a sophmore at WPS and is exited to be apart of this production of Legally Blonde. Rachel has been  dancing since she was little and as she grew she really found herself in theater. Some of her favorite roles being Race in Newsies, and The Stepmother in Cinderella. Rachel has loved working on this show and is so happy to be apart of it. She would like to thank the cast and crew for making this production such a memorable experience.

Katya Ferrer

*

Serena
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

is beyond grateful to making a return to the stage after *the year that will not be named* at Mill Mountain! Previous credits include: Mamma Mia, Spring Awakening, In The Heights, Les Miz, and 42nd Street. AMDA alum. Bi-coastal libra. Huge thanks to KBS, Ginger, and every single person involved at MMT who has worked to make this possible for all of us. Bend and SNAPS for live theatre! Xoxo

Kamden Feth

*

Greek Chorus
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Kamden Feth has been apart of WPS and its theatre program for two years and is so excited to perform her final WPS show in Legally Blonde! Kamden is best known throughout her WPS theatre career as Mrs. Bennet in Pride and Prejudice, Ensemble in Curtains!, and Mrs. Fryer in Radium Girls. Kamden wants to thank her mom, dad, brother and amazing fellow cast and crew for being so supportive throughout her time here!

Christopher Fouche

*

Pforzheimer
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Christopher Fouche teaches HS English at WPS. A good many years back, he worked in entertainment for the Walt Disney World company. Even more years back (we won't say how many), he was president of his high school's thespian troupe. He is deeply honored to be included in this production!

Mariana Oliveira Gandin

*

Kate
(
Greek Chorus
)
(
Greek Chorus
)
Pronouns:

Mariana is a senior at Windermere Prep and is so excited to be a part of her last show. She has recently been a part of the award-winning WPS one-act, The Servant of Two Masters, where she was awarded All-Star Cast member at the Southeastern Theatre Conference, and played Grace Fryer in the fall production of Radium Girls. She is a part of 22 Talent Agency and participates in professional film and TV projects in the Orlando and Atlanta area. She will be going to New York University's Tisch School of the Arts in the fall to continue her studies, majoring in Drama. She would like to thank her family and wonderful acting coach for all their support. 

Sophia Gegg

*

Elle Woods
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Sophia Gegg is a senior in high school this year and is so excited to be a part of Legally Blonde! She has most recently been seen in the award-winning WPS One-Act The Servant of Two Masters (Smeraldina) where she was named as the Outstanding Supporting Performer at the Southeastern Theatre Conference and All-Star Cast Member at the Florida Theatre Conference. Sophia would like to thank her parents, sisters, friends, and three beautiful dogs for their support this year! In the fall, Sophia will be headed to New York University to continue her studies in musical theatre. 

Lisa Graye

*

Elle Woods
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Lisa Graye is an actor based out of New York City. She is so excited to be returning to the Mill Mountain Stage!! Previous MMT credits include West Side Story (Rosalia) and Mamma Mia (Sophie). New York theater credits include: Friends! The Musical Parody at the St Luke's Theater and Cleopatra! The Pop Experience at Theater For A New City. Her musical sketch Instagram Betches' was selected as winner for “Best Sketch Comedy Video” for the New York City Short Comedy Film Festival. Lisa is the owner of Little Graye Bakery a female owned and operated bakery committed to advocating for systemic change and amplifying the voices of the silenced.  10% of every baked good sold is donated to organizations fighting for anti-racism, disability rights, and LGBTQIA visibility and equality.

Daniel Goebel Guzmán

*

Professor Callahan
(
Publicity Designer
)
(
Publicity Designer
)
Pronouns:

Originally from Mexico, Daniel is a junior at Windermere Prep and is very excited to be back on the stage. As a part of the Residential Life program at Windermere Preparatory School, he is also an IB Certificate student, as well as a member and Vice President of the Thespian Troupe 6902, a member of the Tri-M Honor Society, the Rho Kappa Honor Society, Executive Boarding Representative in SGA, and future Marketing Director, and the Spanish Honor Society. 

Past credits at WPS include: Silvio Lombardi in the SETC winning one-act The Servant of Two Masters, Arthur Roeder in Radium Girls, Christopher Belling in Curtains, Harvey Johnson in Bye Bye Birdie, Ensemble in The Legend of Sleepy Hollow; and Pride and Prejudice.

He would like to thank his parents, Regina and Hans, for continuously supporting him and for flying all the way from Mexico just to see him perform. ¡Los amo con todo mi corazón!

Christian Maxwell Henry

*

Male Ensemble
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Christian Maxwell Henry (he/him), Ensemble, is very excited to be making his Mill Mountain Theatre debut! He’s a 2021 graduate of Ithaca College’s BFA Musical Theatre program. Select credits include: “Georg Nowack” in She Loves Me (Ithaca College), “Eddie” in Mamma Mia and “Bobby” in Saturday Night Fever (Cortland Repertory Theatre). Offstage, you can find Christian making a fabulous brunch, researching health and wellness, and engaging in conversations about intersectionality in American theatre. Christian works to be an ally to those around the world who are affected by racism and systemic oppression. Christian would like to thank his family for their endless love and support, and Mill Mountain for this opportunity!

Andre Hinds

*

Emmett
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Andre Hinds is excited to be making his debut here at Mill Mountain with this exciting cast of Legally Blonde. Regional Theater: Signature Theatre: After Midnight, The Scottsboro Boys (Willie Roberson), Crazy For You (Custus), Jesus Christ Superstar. Olney Theater Center: Singing In The Rain, Cabaret, Matilda (Rudolpho), Elf, In The Heights, Guys & Dolls. DC Area: Keegan Theatre: Chicago. Tobys Dinner Theatre: Sister Act, Hairspray (Seaweed), Mary Poppins (Neleus). Much love to Kristen and the entire cast of Legally Blonde. Thanks to my family & friends for their love and support.

Sarah Jordan

*

Vivienne
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Sarah Jordan has had an absolute blast participating in this production of Legally Blonde! Starting her career at only 3 years old, Sarah has continued to audition and book jobs for TV film and stage productions. Starting her freshman year, her most recent roles at WPS include Niki Harris in Curtains, Sob Sister in Radium Girls, and Beatrice in the competitive one-act The Servant of Two Masters. Sarah continues to train privately with Maddie Lane and Elaine Cotignola, along with participating in summer programs and NYC workshops. She would love to thank all of her coaches, Mrs. Fadoul and Mrs. Redman, and her agent Traci at Brevard Talent. Outside of performance, Sarah enjoys writing, wake surfing, and playing her bass guitar!

Claire Juneau

*

Brooke Wyndham
(
Ensemble
)
(
Ensemble
)
Pronouns:

Claire Juneau: Claire Juneau is a senior at Windermere prep and is excited to be on stage! As a IB Theatre Arts student, Claire is a also a member of Thespian Troupe 6902 and the national English Honor Society. Past credits at WPS incude: Cosutme crew for BY BYE BIRDIE, Costume Crew for PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, Costume Crew for CURTIANS. 

Erin Kei

*

Vivienne Kensington
(
Associate Choreographer, Dance Captain
)
(
Associate Choreographer, Dance Captain
)
Pronouns:

Erin is ecstatic to be a part of this production! Originally from Fort Worth, TX she went to Syracuse University and has remained in New York ever since. NATIONAL TOURS/NY THEATER: Elf! The Musical, BAM, MMAC. REGIONAL: Asolo Rep, Dallas Theater Center, Phoenix Theatre, Syracuse Stage, Casa Mañana. TV/FILM: The Path (Hulu), Olay Whips (Commercial), Sc7nario (Broadway HD). In addition to performing, Erin also enjoys arts administration. She is the Associate Artistic Director at Thistle Dance, led by Kristen Sandler. Erin is incredibly grateful to Ginger, Kristen and the entire MMT team for ensuring the safety of the cast and crew throughout the creative process in order to be able to perform for you safely today! BIG shout out to Mom, Anders, Freya and everyone who supports Erin's dream! Enjoy the show! #BLM #AAPIPride #CUSE

Mercedes Dawnte Long

*

Margot
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Mercedes Dawnte Long is a twenty-three year old performer from San Jose California. In 2018, she moved to NYC to pursue her dream of acting/performing arts. She attended The American Academy of Dramatic Arts and during this time she portrayed roles such as Hecuba in The Trojan Women and Gloria in Gingham Dog. She most recently performed in a production of In Chorus in Astoria Park. She is very honored to have the opportunity to share her passion for the arts again during the trying times of COVID-19. She would like to thank Mill Mountain Theatre for giving her the space to create again and for seeing something in her as an artist. She would also like to thank her mom for always believing in her. Lastly, she thanks God for all of the many blessings she’s been given.

Amelia Lusk

*

Courtney/Ensemble
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Amelia has been performing at Windermere Prep since the third grade! She is currently a sophomore and is very excited to be on stage for her first high school musical. Previous credits include Radium Girls, Curtains, and The Servant of Two Masters.

Zara Lwin

*

Ensemble
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Zara is a junior at Windermere Prep and is immensely eager for her first on stage performance for a musical in Legally Blonde. She is an IB Diploma student, proud member of International Thespian Honor Society Troupe 6902 for 2 years, the Vice President of Environmental Club, National Art Honor Society, National Honor Society, and  National English Honor Society. 

Her experience in theatre includes The Ledgend of Sleepy Hallow as an supporting cast, in Bye Bye Birde as Deck Crew, Pride & Prejudice as Spotlight, Curtains! as Costume Crew, and Radium Girls as Costume Crew, and a 3 year competator in Districts with a Best in Show for Scenic Design.

Lizzie Markson

*

Enid Hoops/Leilani
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Lizzie Markson (she/her) is psyched to be a part of Legally Blonde after this year and a half with not enough live art. Lizzie is passionate about telling stories that help us open our hearts and feel closer to one another than we did when we entered the theatre. She’s especially psyched to be playing an outspoken feminist and to be telling a story that centers strong women. Some of her favorite credits include Natalie in Next to Normal, Sophie in the MAMMA MIA! Farewell National Tour, and Anybodys in West Side Story at the IHI Stage Around Tokyo, Japan. Thank you to MMT for your diligence in keeping everyone safe amidst COVID so we can all be here experiencing live theatre together. Thank you to the cast, crew, creative team, everyone at MMT and in Roanoke who makes this possible, and to YOU for choosing to be here.

Veronica Marrero

*

Greek Chorus
(
Dance Captain
)
(
Dance Captain
)
Pronouns:

Veronica is currently a sophomore and has been performing at Windermere Prep since eighth grade! With her background of 10 years in dance and theater, she is very excited to perform in this show! Previous credits include, "Curtains", and numerous dance shows! 

Andrew Mauney

*

Professor Callahan/Kyle
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Andrew Mauney (Prof. Callahan) is excited to finally make his Mill Mountain debut after being cast in last season’s scheduled production of Holiday Inn. Stage: South Pacific Ntl Tour (Billis u/s), Hairspray (Corny & Link), Soul Mates (Workshops, FST World Premier, & Celebrity Cruises), My Fair Lady (ArtsHHI). Several New York writing and directing credits. TV/Film: “When They See Us” (Netflix), “Trouble With Women” (Amazon). Love to God, Morgana, and family/friends. Stay safe and spread love! Phil 4:13

Carrington Meyer

*

Serena
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Carrington is currently a sophomore at Windermere Prep and is so excited to participate in the beginning of this years theater season. Carrington is currenlty a member of Troupe 6902 and is the Founder and President of Windermere Prep's Black Student Union. Past credits at WPS include: Ensemble in CURTAINS and Waitress Kylie in ROCK OF AGES.

Payton Moledor

*

Pilar
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Payton Moledor is a performer and arts administrator from North Carolina currently serving as the Assistant Artistic Director of MMT. She was previously seen on the Trinkle MainStage in Million Dollar Quartet (Dyanne Understudy/Dance Captain) and in Willy Wonka Jr. (Mrs. Bucket). Other regional credits include Newsies (Katherine), Harvey (Myrtle Mae), Leonard Bernstein’s MASS (Street Chorus), and the original cast of From The Mountaintop: The Edgar Tufts Story (Maude Tate). UNCSA ’17, UVA ‘20

Chloe Morris

*

Ensemble
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

This is Chloe’s musical theatre debut! With a background in dance, her credits include: Windermere Preparatory School Dance Shows (2019-2024), Windermere Prep Dance Repertoire Company (2023-2024), and Windermere Prep’s Lakerettes (competitive dance team) (2019-2023), serving as Captain of this team for 3 years. Chloe is thrilled to be a part of this experience!

Noor Nawaz

*

Ensemble
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Noor Nawaz is a junior at Windermere Prep and is very excited to be performing in Legally Blonde. As a full IB diploma student, she is proud to be an inducted member of Thespian Troupe 6902 and the treasurer of both National Honor Society and National Honor Society for Dance. She has been in the shows at WPS since her freshman year which include ensemble for The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Bye Bye Birdie, Kitty Bennet in Pride and Prejudice and ensemble for Curtains and Radium Girls.

Saavan Ohri

*

Sundeep Agrawal Padamadan
(
Nikos Argitakos
)
(
Nikos Argitakos
)
Pronouns:

Saavan Ohri (Sundeep/Nikos) is excited to be performing in Legally Blonds.  Recent credits include Radium Girls, Curtains,and Pride and prejudice, all here at Windermere Prep.He is currently a student at Windermere Prep balancing his academic, social, and theater life during productions on top of being his student governments president. 

Basil Laredo Redman

*

Basil - Paulette's Dog
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Basil is a Mini Schnauzer and Jack Russell Terrier mix or a "Schnack"! He was rescued from Texas and brought to Florida by Polka Dogz Pet Rescue.  He was adopted in 2017 and is making his debut in Legally Blonde!

Lily Pilar Redman

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Paulette
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Lily Pilar Redman is so excited to be a part of Legally Blonde! She is a senior and has been involved in theatre at WPS since 6th grade, with her first performance being A Night of Cameron Macintosh in 9th grade. She has been involed with both cast and crew, most recently serving as the Assistant Stage Manager for The Servant of Two Masters. Outside of performing Lily loves to read and write, having published a poetry collection titled Stained Glass earlier this year. Upon graduation, Lily plans to attend the University of North Florida in the fall, majoring in Creative Writing as a student of the Hicks Honors College. Lily is so fortunate to have such wonderful friends at WPS in and outside of the theatre. She sends her love to her mom, dad, and family. Love you all to Pluto!

Selena Robinson

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Texas
(
Dance Captain
)
(
Dance Captain
)
Pronouns:
She/Her/Hers

Selena Robinson (Texas/Dance Captain) is excited to return to Mill Mountain Theatre after appearing as Marley in Escape to Margaritaville! She is a proud Chicago native and NYU graduate. Some of her favorite credits include Chicago (Arizona Broadway Theatre), Elf (Arvada Center), Little Shop of Horrors (Metropolis Performing Arts Centre), Scrooge (Fireside Theatre), and The Queen’s Ball: A Bridgerton Experience (Netflix/Fever). Selena is represented by Take 3 Talent. Special thanks to her friends and family, her Physical Therapist Maddie, Ginger, Hector, and the entire MMT Team! 

Alexa Stewart

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Delta Nu - Greek Chorus
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Alexa Stewart (Greek Chorus) is making her debut in the WPS High School theater department. As a Freshman, Alexa was very exited to be working with many talented actors and actresses in the High School. Alexa was previously seen on the WPS stage when she was cast as "Bird Lady" in the WPS Middle School musical Mary Poppins last school year. Later, Alexa was cast in Matilda at the Dr.Phillips Center and got the chance to be in an ensemble with many talented people. Alexa is also continuing her voice lessons that she takes with her voice teacher in New York.

Logan T. Sutton

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Warner
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Logan is grateful to be returning to Mill Mountain after the pandemic year. Prior to this he was Tom in Mill Mountain's The Glass Menagerie. International Theatre: Swing (Your Alice). NYC Theatre: Homer (Floyd Collins), Percy Shelley (Mary’s Little Monster), Slightly (Peter Pan). Regional Theatre: Orlando (As You Like It), Pepper (Mamma Mia!), Claudio (Much Ado About Nothing), Rocky (Damn Yankees).

Dominic Tarantino

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Warner Huntington III
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Dominic is a junior at Windermere Prep and is incredibly excited to take the stage for Legally Blonde! An IB Certificate student, Dominic is also a dedicated member of the Dance program at WPS, and historian of WPS’s Thespian Troupe 6902. His Past credits at WPS include Pantalone in The Servant of Two Masters, Mr. Markley in Radium Girls, Randy in Curtains, and Mr. Whickham in Pride & Prejudice! He would like to thank his mom, dad, and sister for their continued and unwavering support!

Abby Walsh

*

Chutney Wyndham
(
Jump Rope Captain, Roberta Coleman, Sabrina
)
(
Jump Rope Captain, Roberta Coleman, Sabrina
)
Pronouns:

Abby is a senior at Windermere Prep. She is a 4 sport varsity athlete - Basketball, Soccer, Softball and Golf. She is new to WPS theatre this year and is excited to be a part of Legally Blonde as her last show. She has recently been seen as Mrs. Michales in Radium Girls. She really is the female Troy Bolton. Abby will major in Sports Communications and continue her studies at Clemson University for the next 4 years. Abby would also like to shoutout Ryan Lingle for making her Jump Rope Captain. 

Hayden Wilcox

*

Ensemble
(
)
(
)
Pronouns:

Hayden has joined her first musical! She has gained experience on the stage as a dancer on the Lakerettes dance team for 4 years and the Repertoire dance company. Now she is excited to perform in her first show as a sophomore. 

Meet the Team

BambiEllen Fadoul

*

Director/Choreographer
(
)
Pronouns:

BambiEllen Fadoul (Director/Co-Choreographer/Costume Designer) is the proud high school theatre teacher and director at Windermere Prep. As a graduate of Oklahoma City University with a degree in Musical Theatre and former Walt Disney Entertainment performer, Fadoul enjoys sharing her passion and knowledge for the stage with her amazing students. Under Fadoul’s tutelage, the high school theatre program at WPS has blossomed earning local, state, and regional recognition most recently receiving Outstanding Director and 1st Runner Up at the Southeastern Theatre Conference with the beautiful and comedic One Act, The Servant of Two Masters. Fadoul has students at leading performing arts universities and performing professionally across the country. When not directing, choreographing, sewing, or writing lesson plans, she enjoys spending time with her wonderful and supportive husband, Jonathan, and amazing and hilarious son, Cooper.

Ginger Poole

*

Producing Artistic Director
(
)
Pronouns:
She/Her

Ginger Poole is a proud member of Actor’s Equity Association and an Associate member of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Union. She has studied, taught, choreographed, and performed throughout the U.S. She has worked in GA, HI, FL, MS, SC and VA with, Theatre in the Square, The Alliance City Series, Theatre Gael, Synchronicity Performance Group-GA, Mill Mountain Theatre-VA and SC Children’s Theatre. Originally from Atlanta, she has worked with the N.F.L. and The Atlanta Falcons as their director and choreographer and The Atlanta Opera. Prior to coming to Mill Mountain Theatre, she was based out of North Carolina where she has worked with Flat Rock Playhouse, the State Theatre of North Carolina, in over 25 productions. She was a part of the Education program at Flat Rock Playhouse for 5 years where she taught for their Apprentice Companies and their Conservatory Program in Acting, Dance, and Musical Theatre. Ginger has taught at The University of Southern Mississippi, Western Carolina University, William Carey College, Mississippi University for Women, and currently teaches at Hollins University. With Ginger’s strong background in dance she finds herself not only acting and dancing on stage but also directing the choreography and classroom skills for her students. Ginger holds her M.F.A. in Acting Performance from the University of Southern Mississippi and continues to teach acting and dance.  She has worked with students that range in age from kindergarten through professionals.

Ginger has worked in commercials, voice-overs, film, stage, and the classroom, and was profiled in the book FIRESTARTERS as “the actor”.

Ginger serves on the following Board of Directors: South Eastern Theatre Conference (SETC Secretary, Second Term), Junior League of the Roanoke Valley (Past President and Current Nominating Committee, Second Term), Burton Performing Arts Advisory Board, The Roanoke City Public Schools Education Foundation, and she has served on the Review Panel for theVirginia Commission for the Arts. She was the recipient of the DePaul’s Women of Achievement Award in the Arts in 2013 and was named the 2016 Kendig Award recipient for Individual Artist. Ginger is also a guest host with WSLS, the NBC affiliate, Daytime Blue Ridge television show, and is the host of the new Mill Mountain Theatre Podcast, Meet Me at Mill Mountain. She is very proud to be a member of the Mill Mountain Theatre team and looks forward to its continued growth, success, and artistic influence in the region.

Matthew Carlsen

*

Costume Designer
(
)
Pronouns:

Matthew is delighted to be making his professional costume design debut with Legally Blonde at Mill Mountain Theatre. Recent credits include Seagull, Urinetown (recipient of the National KCACTF Award for Excellence in Costume Design 2020), and Cabaret with Oakland University. He is a graduate from Oakland University with a BFA in Musical Theatre; Costume Design Concentration. When he's not designing, he can be found either sewing historical garments or dressing up as late 19th Century bourgeoisie with friends. He is also a firm believer that all men should start wearing high-waisted trousers again.

Bill Muñoz

*

Production Stage Manager
(
)
Pronouns:

Bill Muñoz – Production Stage Manager Feeling so grateful to once again return to the ‘Noke! He was in rehearsals here in March of 2020 for Dream Girls, when everything shut down due to the pandemic. Words cannot be found to express the thrill to be back doing live theatre. Past productions at MMT, The Marvelous Wonderettes, A Christmas Story, Mamma Mia and The Sound of Music. Beginning at Flat Rock Playhouse, in Western NC, (30 seasons, over 130 productions) and working in theatres in the southeast, he has also worked as an Actor and Fight Choreographer. Thank you for supporting the Arts!

Kailey Absher

*

Assistant Stage Manager
(
)
Pronouns:

Kailey Absher is so excited for live theatre to be back! She was seen most recently at Mill Mountain as Assistant Stage Manager for Million Dollar Quartet and Production Stage Manager for Tomás and the Library Lady. She is a Virginia native, growing up nearby in the New River Valley and is a 2020 graduate of Radford University. Kailey is a member of the Southeastern Theatre Conference as well as the Stage Managers’ Association.

Savannah Woodruff

*

Lead Electrician & Sound Engineer
(
)
Pronouns:
she/they

Savannah Woodruff was born and raised in Southern Pines, North Carolina, where she was encouraged to become involved in technical theatre in high school. Savannah is a graduate of The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and received a BFA in Technical Production. Prior to joining the Mill Mountain Theatre staff, she worked as a member of Weston Playhouse Theatre Company’s Intern Company. Savannah is grateful for the support of her family (and especially her cats) in her endeavors, and is thrilled to be able to continue working and growing with Mill Mountain Theatre.

Hidaya Bakeer

*

Assistant Stage Manager
(
)
Pronouns:

Hidaya Bakeer is an IB Certificate student in junior year at Windermere Prep, and has been an active member of the rheater department since her crew debut on Bye Bye Birdie. A proud member of Thespian Troupe 6902, National Art Honor Society, and Tri-M Music Honor Society, she is very immerssed in the fine arts at Windermere Prep. She has gone through several tech positions including Lightboard and Soundboard Operator, Deck Crew, Flight Crew, and is happy to be diving into the world of Management on Legally Blonde. Previous credits from at WPS include Radium Girls, The Servant of Two Masters, The Wizard of Oz, Descendants, Curtains, Mary Poppins Jr, Frozen Kids, Pride & Prejudice, and Hammered. 

Keira Beggrow

*

Props Master + Deck Crew
(
)
Pronouns:

In the past few years Keira has served in a variety of positions in Windermere Prep's theater department. She has been involved with Props and Deck Crew for Bye Bye Birdie, Pride & Prejudice, and Curtains, Costume Crew for Frozen Kids, and Flight Crew for Mary Poppins Jr. Outside of theater, she is enrolled in many IB classes and takes pride in her academics. Keira is thrilled to be Props Master and a part of Deck Crew for this year's play, Radium Girls

Jacqueline Blimline

*

Assistant Director
(
)
Pronouns:

Mrs. Blimline is the Lower School Theatre Arts Teacher here at Windermere Preparatory School.  She is happy to return to the High School Theatre Department after working on last season's production of "Curtains".  Originally from New York, Mrs. Blimline led a professional career in Musical Theatre for 15 years.  Now she is thrilled to have the privilege of teaching theatre to the most amazing students as her Act II.  She is beyond proud to work alongside the amazing Mrs. Fadoul and the incredible "Legally Blonde" team.  

Seth Davis

*

Music Director
(
)
Pronouns:
he/him

Seth Davis is a Georgia native who is very excited to be a part of the Mill Mountain family after first serving as Associate Music Director for Mill Mountain’s 2013 production of The Sound of Music. Seth is a music director and musician in both the musical theater and classical music realms, in addition to being a teacher, clinician, and coach for performers and musicians of all ages. Regional credits include Kiss of the Spiderwoman, Spring Awakening, See What I Wanna See (Actor’s Express), Illyria: A Twelfth Night Musical (Georgia Shakespeare), Time Between Us, A Diva’s Christmas, Hair (Serenbe Playhouse) and The Andrews Brothers (Stage Door Players). Seth has also served as musical director for Georgia Tech and Oglethorpe University in addition to teaching at The Alliance Theatre, Aurora Theatre and judging many regional music and theater festival competitions.

Karen Dolle

*

Lighting Designer
(
)
Pronouns:
She/Her

Karen mostly recently has served as the Associate Lighting Designer for Renaissance Theatre Company's The Office Holiday Party Musical Extravaganza Show. Past lighting design credits include Hollows, I'm just trying to stay here, Do Not Defenestrate Me, and Finding the Space in Between. She graduated from the University of Maryland in 2018 and received her Masters from Denver University in 2022. 

Maria Fernanda Franck Braga

*

Assistant Stage Manager
(
)
Pronouns:

Maria Fernanda Franck Braga has lived in the United States for 6 years, being raised in Brazil originally. She is currently an 11th grader, and an IB Certificate student. 

She immersed herself in theatre during her freshman year, focusing her talents on tech crew roles at Windermere Preparatory School. Alongside her membership in Thespian Troupe 6902, she is also a member of National Art Honors Society and National English Honors Society.

Contributing to WPS productions of Bye Bye Birdie, The Servant of Two Masters, Curtains, Pride & Prejudice, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, The Wizard of Oz, Mary Poppins, Hammered, Frozen, and Radium Girls, Maria Fernanda's dedication and versatility allows her to offer help to any area of the tech crew.

Nicolas Humphrey

*

Deck Crew
(
)
Pronouns:

Nicolas Humphrey

*

Deck Crew
(
)
Pronouns:

Nicolas Humphrey, an eleventh-grader at Windermere Prep, is thrilled to return for his sixth show in his high school theatre career. Starting this career just one year ago with the deck crew for Windermere Prep's Curtains, theatre has quickly become a hobby and passion for Nick, which is reflected by his activity in the theatre. Some other works he's participated in this past year with WPS include: The SETC runner-up one act The Servant Of Two MastersRadium Girls, and the elementary school's Wizard of Oz

Riley McKenzie

*

Soundboard Operator
(
)
Pronouns:

Riley McKenzie is Sophomore at Windermere Prep and is excited to be a part of the technical crew for this production of Radium Girls. Riley is also a member of Thespian Troupe 6902. She has been a part of the Tech Crew at WPS for LITTLE MERMAID, 13 THE MUSICAL, ROCK OF AGES, HAMMERED, FROZEN, MARRY POPPINS and CURTAINS.    

Neela McLein

*

Lighting Board Operator
(
)
Pronouns:

Neela McLein is a freshman at Windermere Preparatory School. This will be her first year at WPS, and her first show in the Cyprus Center; she is looking forward to continuing and working on many more shows. However, she also has previous experience working on tech, being the lighting operator and designer for two non-WPS related shows: CInderella and Addams Family. 

Avni Patil

*

Deck Crew
(
)
Pronouns:

Avni Patil (Deck Crew) is a current ninth grader who has been involved with theater since elementary at Windermere Preparatory School for five years. Over the years, she has performed in musicals and plays such as Hammered: Thor and Loki as Atli and has worked backstage as media crew, prop master, costume crew, and deck crew as well. Recently, she was on the Media Crew for Radium Girls. As a lover of the arts, she is also a dancer, musician, and artist. Whether on stage or off, Avni is very grateful to be a part of the WPS theater family!

Kendyl Taylor

*

Stage Manager
(
)
Pronouns:

Legally Blonde is Kendyl's fifth and final show as a senior stage manager at WPS. Out of eight total productions, Legally Blonde has been the most challenging yet rewarding show for her. In order to continue her study of theater, Kendyl will be majoring in Performance Studies at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts. When she isn't in the theater, Kendyl enjoys modeling, traveling, and shopping for unique clothing and jewelry. She is grateful to her family for always supporting her, and she is thankful to the amazing cast and crew of Legally Blonde for making this one of her favorite high school memories. Finally, Kendyl is immensely grateful to Mrs. Fadoul for continually guiding and pushing her to new limits. 

Sophia Wai

*

Crew Member
(
)
Pronouns:

Sophia Thiri Phone Wai, a lively sophomore, joins the crew with a growing interest in the arts and a great sense of cooperation. She is looking forward to starting the IB diploma program in her junior year and is excited about upcoming projects and shows. Sophia has improved her ability to connect with peers by using theatre as a platform for shared experiences and creative expression. Her passion for new projects fills the group with energy, creating an environment conducive to creativity and cooperation. Sophia's devotion and talent for communication position her to make a significant contribution to the crew's dynamic environment.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ledean Williams

*

Music Director
(
)
Pronouns:
She/her

Ledean is a collaborative pianist and music director, performing throughout central Florida with a variety of professional and community choirs and singers. She serves as the accompanist for the Symphonic and Harmonia Choirs of Orlando Sings, as well as for many school choral programs and honor choirs. She serves as a music director for the Juilliard Summer Musical Thestre program and is thrilled to work on her first show with the incredible high school troupe at WPS. Ledean holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Florida State University and a Master of Piano Pedagogy from Louisiana State University. 

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A Curiously Beta GLENGARRY GLEN ROSS — Review
Juan A. Ramirez
April 1, 2025

To stage David Mamet’s Glengarry Glen Ross in 2025, starring Bill Burr, Kieran Culkin and Bob Odenkirk, would appear to be a huge win for the meninist movement. Your brother’s favorite TV stars cursing up a storm as real estate agents engaging in all sorts of chicanery to stay at the top of their food chain? The Palace Theater fills itself. And yet, for all its promised brazenness, this latest production of the 1983 play (its third revival in twenty years) is a curiously cucked rendering of a piece which requires all-cylinders machismo to fire off.

Director Patrick Marber presents a cleaner, more low-key take on the material. His is not the livewire sleazefest which has allowed actors like Al Pacino, Joe Mantegna and Bobby Cannavale to find poetry in peacocking. The pace here is set by their successor, Culkin, who deploys his shtick of frazzled, hair-tousled stammering into a sales asset, luring marks into his trap the way a conspiracy video turns raised eyebrows into slow surrender. As with this production, it’s a quieter tactic that works – it gets the play through to the end of the story successfully – but is not one delivering anything other than what’s immediately onstage.

Say what you will about Mamet (the less, the better, at this point), but his material works so long as it is allowed to dive as far deep into the mud to find some sort of insight into the brokenness of bravado. The cursing, the backstabbing, the nastiness should all spell out, in bold and all caps, the grossness of his characters’ worlds. Paradoxically, that sleaze also tempers the effect of their worst behaviors; here it’s casual racism. Grotesqueness tuned down and an overarchingly inoffensive relatability allowed to prevail, their extended forays into bigotry come off as just edgy humor from lovable rogues instead of the words of the damned.

Burr commands that middle ground, a natural with the acidic rhythm of Mamet’s language, but has too few scenes to display it. (Same with Michael McKean, in a less showy role.) And though he fares better in the second act, Odenkirk stumbles into his aging, pathetically unlucky salesman, never capturing the character’s life-or-death desperation the way it was immortalized, if sideways, in The Simpsons’ collar-tugging Gil Gunderson (himself based on Jack Lemmon’s film portrayal).

Not much is at stake for these alleged sharks, who glide through the lofty waters of Scott Pask’s two sets. Having to blow out this small piece to fit this massive theater, the ornate Chinese restaurant of the first act and the office of the second reflect comfort, not the cesspool that could breed the Darwinism their actions involve. Polished, starry, and with nothing to say, this Glengarry sells a McMansion, neither a scam nor a Palace.

Glengarry Glen Ross is in performance through June 28, 2025 at the Palace Theatre on West 47th Street in New York City. For tickets and more information, visit here.

Jessica Hecht on Her Adaptation of Brecht’s Mother
Juan A. Ramirez
March 31, 2025

After 2020, as pandemic restrictions were beginning to loosen up, Jessica Hecht was looking to create a piece about, as she puts it, “what it is to be a mother, and also somebody who is political in spirit but doesn’t find her voice until later in her life.” Walking around the Strand bookshop, she stumbled upon a play she’d first encountered in high school, where she never fully grasped its meaning: Bertolt Brecht’s The Mother. The experimental 1932 work, one of his “learning plays,” follows an illiterate, working class mother who finds herself at the center of a revolutionary struggle thanks to her son, whose radical thinking worries, then galvanizes, her.

The play’s theme, newly rediscovered, resonated with Hecht. Having worked with refugee communities around the world with her Campfire Project program since 2017, it brought her back to the mothers she met at a Greek refugee camp, at the height of the Syrian civil war, who were desperate to help build a future for their children.

This weekend, as part of Baryshnikov Arts’ 20th Anniversary season, Hecht will debut A Mother, an adaptation of Brecht’s work co-conceived with, and written by, Neena Beber. Featuring original songs and choreography, the play sets the action in 1979 Miami. It was an era she remembers well from frequent visits to her grandparents down South, when she was discovering love and disco months before the police murder of a Black man ignited dayslong riots. Also starring in it, the piece honors Brecht’s didactic, distancing effect by weaving several threads: the play’s narrative; Hecht’s personal history, alongside that of her family, who migrated to the U.S. around the time the work was written; and scenes surrounding its original Berlin production.

Theatrely caught up with Hecht a few days before the work’s premiere.

What’s your relationship with Miami?

My grandparents were working-class Jews from the Bronx and moved to Miami Beach, like a lot of people did in the ‘60s and ‘70s. I had very formative times with them going down to these apartments in the ‘70s, which were largely [inhabited by] old Jewish people who had survived the Holocaust and now lived in these apartments up and down Ocean Avenue, before that area became hipper than hip. Back then, it was really all Jewish, Black, and Latino communities. So we set the play in 1979 and 1980, when I am both being completely turned on to the idea of being in the theater and spending these weeks in Miami Beach, where I had my first crush. It all goes down in Miami in the era of disco and the city really exploding. It was a fabulous time; clubbing and Versace and all these people coming down there to explore this whole other side of the city. I really remember the collision of those two worlds.

Most of those people were in the last twenty years of their lives and a lot of them lived out the rest of their lives in isolation. People stopped coming and it became very dangerous for a short period of time because, during the Mariel boatlift, Castro let out all of these people from jails and mental hospitals, in addition to any Cubans who wanted to leave. So these elderly people were panicked to leave their apartments at night. And that wasn't all completely true, some of it was just fear. It's terrible, as I think about it, because you realize all the bullshit that our government is putting out about these immigrant groups that is completely untrue. It's interesting how these seeds get planted and create this idea in the collective consciousness that these immigrant groups coming in are the product of countries trying to get uncomfortable populations out. That is absolutely not what's going on now, but it was sort of what was going on in Miami at that moment.

It's always interesting, and can be emotionally fraught, to look back at the things that were happening around you when you were young. Did anything stand out in your research?

We placed it in 1979-1980 because this very seminal event occurred in Miami at that time. It was the murder of a Black man, Arthur Lee McDuffie, by a group of Miami-Dade police officers that became a real media explosion, and then later sparked very serious riots in Liberty City, a Black enclave in Miami. There are riots in the play, and moments in which you feel the presence of thug-like police officers who come in and totally trash this old woman's home. These riots, during that winter that I was there, were very, very affecting. I mean, I vaguely remember this case, but then when Neena brought it up... I watch these videos, and there's actually a famous reggae song about the Liberty City riots because the whole city was burning. It was like the Rodney King or the George Floyd events, but before we had this real awareness. Arthur Lee McDuffie was a Marine and he was just pulled off his motorcycle and brutally beaten to death. That actual event colors the piece. And McDuffie’s mother – now we've now seen mothers repeatedly pleading, in the media, for an end to this violence. This was certainly not the first of this kind of murder, probably the millionth, but in many ways it was the first to be so well covered by the media. 

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Jessica Hecht | Photo: Deborah Lopez

Tell me a little bit about conceiving A Mother.

I went to the Strand looking for something I could perhaps collaborate on with Neena Beber, who I’ve worked with for many years. We’d have these Zoom sessions where we would talk about how we could adapt this. Our very first idea was to have three different mothers, one from Latin America, one from the Middle East, and one American. We’d do improvs around how this could manifest, and I started telling stories about my own family and my grandmother's history, who was a very defining character in my life. We did that for months, and then the Orchard Project got involved, then Baryshnikov Arts. These improvs kept going, where we would record ourselves talking about our own experiences, and then we would read the play with six actors, and then we'd go back to talking again. We'd do these recordings to see how the play actually affected us, how it lived in us. Then Neena cobbled together a script based on these improvs and these investigations.

Had you thought of including movement into the piece before Baryshnikov became involved?

I did synchronized swimming and modern dance for a bit when I was a teenager. It kept coming up during development and I said I don't want to manifest any kind of quote-unquote dance, but we should have some way we move which allows us to engage with the audience in a physical way. So I asked Misha Baryshnikov and his wife Lisa if they had any suggestions, because I was in a production of The Cherry Orchard with him which had movement at that time. Watching him work on a play was so inspiring because, although it's not dance, there's this way in which he creates a character through movement which is so defining. Lisa wasn’t available but suggested their daughter, Shura, because she works a lot in the theater and she's an incredible choreographer. There is some disco choreography, synchronized swimming on land and some teen theater camp choreographies that live in the piece.

How are you finding a physicality in this? When I think of Brecht, I think of intellectualism.

It's so wonderful because we're finding all of this physicality by placing it in Miami Beach. I have these women of that era that I knew so well, who were in their 70s, but were in this warm, club-like environment. So they had a kind of renewal of their femininity, albeit in the form of an elderly person, but a little sexy. What's very interesting is that Brecht’s actual style was not as stiff as people think. We have this remarkable recording of the Berliner Ensemble production of The Mother in 1934 that my friends showed me. My friend Solveig Schumann, who’s the daughter of the person who created the Bread and Puppet Theater, is married to Sebastian Brecht, Bertolt’s grandson. So the grandchildren of these bohemian icons married, and that's how I got a lot of information about the Berliner Ensemble and these early productions. The style is much more natural than you would ever imagine. The bodies, the physicality is a bit formal at times, but the quality of the emotion, not that they are emotional in a contemporary sense, or like you’d seen in an Arthur Miller or Tennessee Williams play, but they are extremely accessible storytellers. They're very simple in their production style, and very gentle. There is a kind of emotion because they use the language to tell these stories, so you hear the mother character often saying to her son, “Please don't have your friends come here in the middle of the night. I'm so worried that the police will come. Please, please my son, please listen to me.” If you just do it simply, you're sort of recognizing that the plaintiveness is coming from this real understanding of this old world fear, and the clarity of their journeys. Of course, we're talking about language that's translated, but I promise you, he wrote in a much more emotionally compelling way than we realize.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

A Mother is in performance through April 13, 2025 at Baryshnikov Arts Center on West 37th Street in New York City. For tickets and more information, visit here.

A Powerhouse Sarah Snook Takes On THE PICTURE OF DORIAN GRAY — Review
Joey Sims
March 28, 2025

Back in 2021, a shutdown-era digital adaptation of The Picture of Dorian Gray skilfully transplanted Oscar Wilde’s classic into our present-day maelstrom of internet virality and social media fame. Utilizing “content” streams and straight-to-camera monologues, Henry Filloux-Bennett’s take (presented by the UK’s Barn Theatre, among others) tied-in Instagram, filters and Snapchat to witty effect, finding a clear—if perhaps unsubtle—contemporary resonance to Wilde’s satire on our beauty-obsessed society. 

One senses, in Kip Williams’ new solo iteration of Dorian Gray, now on Broadway following an acclaimed run on London’s West End, a natural hesitation to hit the nail so squarely on the head. Not that Williams shies away from technology—his production makes heavy use of video projections and live camera feeds, a style the Australian director has dubbed “cine-theater.” But all that modern tech collides, here, with fabulous period costumes and Wilde’s florid prose, preserved in Williams’ adaptation. 

For a time, that deliberate clash is delightfully overwhelming to the senses. But as Williams’ elaborate staging careens towards Dorian’s tragic end, you may find yourself more exhausted than moved; always impressed, but never quite transported. 

Certainly this Dorian Gray is an astonishing technical achievement. A powerhouse Sarah Snook, fresh off HBO’s mega-hit Succession, plays all the parts in the 2-hour, intermission-less spin on Wilde’s novel, a horror-infused fantasy of eternal beauty’s curse. Snook achieves that feat by performing opposite many pre-recorded versions of herself, projected on a multitude of screens that glide above and around the stage. Snook herself is also trailed by a hard-working camera crew, her own transformative work sharing the same screens with her pre-filmed selves. 

It’s all expertly choreographed, and the interactions between live-Snook and her video selves are remarkably seamless. (The video work is by David Bergman.) But Williams’ cine-style quickly grows distancing and repetitive. Too often, Snook herself is out of view, available only by video; a few times she even leaves the stage entirely, leaving us alone with a recording. These choices suck the “liveness” out of the event. That distance is further heightened by the soap opera crispness of the video itself—the quality is distractingly crisp, to the point where I wanted to grab a remote and turn off motion smoothing.

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Snook | Photo: Marc Brenner

One solution to the “liveness” problem is showing your audience the work, an approach favored by digital theater artist Joshua William Gelb for a recent in-person staging of The 7th Voyage of Egon Tichy. Williams hits on that magic only in certain scenes, including a years-spanning  sequence of Bacchanalia that brings the video operators into the party (a fun idea that, sadly, the production only deploys once). 

Wilde’s source text is perhaps distancing by its nature. Do we need to feel empathy for Dorian? That arguably requires viewing him as a tragic cipher, robbed of personhood by a society uninterested in his inner self. That was the perspective taken up by Filloux-Bennett’s 2021 take, which cast Gray as a victim of social media’s power to destroy. 

Again, one can see why Williams shied away from such an on-the-nose reading. But the production’s overall hesitance leaves its perspective on our modern toys in an uncertain place, more confused than nuanced. When Snook snaps a selfie and starts playing with filters, the final result (projected above her) just looks wacky, reminiscent of Jim Carrey’s huge-chinned look in The Mask. Snook toggles back and forth between this clownish caricature and her own face, as though some point was being made—I confess that it eluded me. 

It’s hard not to hold Dorian Gray up against Andrew Scott’s Vanya, another West End import now running downtown at the Lucille Lortel. With simple staging and no fancy effects, that solo staging draws out the clear and beating heart of Chekhov’s text through a single, lonely body on stage. Of course, the demands are different, as Wilde’s novel demands some camp fabulousness—and in this regard, Williams’ team does indeed provide. Marg Horwell’s mini-sets (quickly wheeled in and out) are brightly colored delights, while her innumerable costumes are all delightfully ostentatious creations. 

Yet Snook, though tremendously bawdy and having a great time, does not find a legible Dorian to center Williams’ breathless staging. There is a brief moment, near the play’s conclusion, when live-Snook finally gets the stage to herself. As she speaks to us directly and without adornments and Dorian confesses his fear and deep self-loathing, a bit of humanity does start to seep in. 

Yet all too quickly, the screens slide back onto stage, taking over again for a bravura finale. The show’s conclusion is an astonishing technical display by Snook, the camera crew and the magicians backstage. But as we’re busy being awed, it’s easy to forget what story is even being told. 

The Picture of Dorian Gray is now in performance at the Music Box Theatre on West 45th Street in New York City. For tickets and more information, visit here.

Theatrely News
EXCLUSIVE: Watch A Clip From THEATER CAMP Starring Ben Platt, Noah Galvin, and Molly Gordon
Theatrely News
READ: An Excerpt From Sean Hayes Debut YA Novel TIME OUT
Theatrely News
"Reframing the COVID-19 Pandemic Through a Stage Manager’s Eyes"
EXCLUSIVE: Watch A Clip From THEATER CAMP Starring Ben Platt, Noah Galvin, and Molly Gordon
By: Maia Penzer
14 July 2023

Finally, summer has arrived, which can only mean one thing: it's time for camp! Theater Camp, that is. Theatrely has a sneak peak at the new film which hits select theaters today. 

The new original comedy starring Tony Award winner Ben Platt and Molly Gordon we guarantee will have you laughing non-stop. The AdirondACTS, a run-down theater camp in upstate New York, is attended by theater-loving children who must work hard to keep their beloved theater camp afloat after the founder, Joan, falls into a coma. 

The film stars Ben Platt and Molly Gordon as Amos Klobuchar and Rebecca-Diane, respectively, as well as Noah Galvin as Glenn Wintrop, Jimmy Tatro as Troy Rubinsky, Patti Harrison as Caroline Krauss, Nathan Lee Graham as Clive DeWitt, Ayo Edebiri as Janet Walch, Owen Thiele as Gigi Charbonier, Caroline Aaron as Rita Cohen, Amy Sedaris as Joan Rubinsky, and Alan Kim as Alan Park. 

Theater Camp was directed by Molly Gordon and Nick Lieberman and written by Noah Galvin, Molly Gordon, Nick Lieberman & Ben Platt. Music is by James McAlister and Mark Sonnenblick. On January 21, 2023, Theater Camp had its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival.

You can purchase tickets to the new film from our friends at Hollywood.com here.

READ: An Excerpt From Sean Hayes Debut YA Novel TIME OUT
By: Kobi Kassal
29 May 2023

Actor Sean Hayes is what we in the biz call booked and blessed. On top of his Tony-nominated performance as Oscar Levant in Good Night, Oscar, Hayes has partnered with Todd Milliner and Carlyn Greenwald for the release of their new YA novel Time Out

Heralded by many as Heartstopper meets Friday Night Lights, Time Out follows hometown basketball hero Barclay Elliot who decides to use a pep rally to come out to his school. When the response is not what he had hoped and the hostility continually growing, he turns to his best friend Amy who brings him to her voting rights group at school. There he finds Christopher and… you will just have to grab a copy and find out what happens next. Luckily for you, Time Out hits shelves on May 30 and to hold you over until then we have a special except from the book just for Theatrely:

The good thing about not being on the team the past two weeks has been that I’ve had time to start picking up shifts again at Beau’s diner and save up a little for college now that my scholarship dreams are over.

     The bad part is it’s the perfect place to see how my actions at the pep rally have rotted the townspeople’s brains too.

     During Amy’s very intense musical theater phase in middle school, her parents took her to New York City. And of course she came back home buzzing about Broadway and how beautiful the piss smell was and everything artsy people say about New York. But she also vividly described some diner she waited three hours to get into where the waitstaff would all perform songs for the customers as a way to practice for auditions. The regulars would have favorite staff members and stan them the way Amy stans all her emo musicians.

     Working at Beau’s used to feel kind of like that, like I was part of a performance team I didn’t know I signed up for. The job started off pretty basic over the summer—I wanted to save up for basketball supplies, and Amy worked there and said it was boring ever since her e-girl coworker friend graduated. But I couldn’t get through a single lunch rush table without someone calling me over and wanting the inside scoop on the Wildcats and how we were preparing for the home opener, wanting me to sign an article in the paper or take a photo. Every friendly face just made the resolve grow inside me. People love and support the Wildcats; they would do the same for me.

     Yeah, right.

     Now just like school, customers have been glaring at me, making comments about letting everyone down, about being selfish, about my actions being “unfortunate,” and the tips have been essentially nonexistent. The Wildcats have been obliterated in half their games since I quit, carrying a 2–3 record when last year we were 5–0, and the comments make my feet feel like lead weights I have to drag through every shift.

     Today is no different. It’s Thursday, the usual dinner rush at Beau’s, and I try to stay focused on the stress of balancing seven milkshakes on one platter. A group of regulars, some construction workers, keep loudly wondering why I won’t come back to the team while I refuse proper eye contact.

     One of the guys looks up at me as I drop the bill off. “So, what’s the deal? Does being queer keep ya from physically being able to play?”

     They all snicker as they pull out crumpled bills. I stuff my hands into my pockets, holding my tongue.

     When they leave, I hold my breath as I take their bill.

     Sure enough, no tip.

     “What the fuck?” I mutter under my breath.

     “Language,” Amy says as she glides past me, imitating the way Richard says it to her every shift, and adds, “even though they are dicks.” At least Amy’s been ranting about it every free chance she gets. It was one thing when the student body was being shitty about me leaving the team, but the town being like this is even more infuriating. She doesn’t understand how these fully grown adults can really care that much about high school basketball and thinks they need a new fucking hobby. I finally agree with her.

     [She’s wearing red lipstick to go with her raccoon-adjacent eyeliner as she rushes off to prepare milkshakes for a pack of middle schoolers. I catch her mid–death glare as all three of the kids rotate in their chairs, making the old things squeal. My anger fades a bit as I can’t help but chuckle; Amy’s pissed-off reaction to Richard telling her to smile more was said raccoon makeup, and her tolerance for buffoonery has been at a negative five to start and declining fast.

     I rest my arms on the counter and try not to look as exhausted as I feel.

     “Excuse me!” an old lady screeches, making me jump.

     Amy covers up a laugh as I head to the old lady and her husband’s table. They’ve got finished plates, full waters. Not sure what the problem is. Or I do, which is worse.

     “Yes?” I say trying to suppress my annoyance.

     “Could you be bothered to serve us?”

     Only five more hours on shift. I have a break in three minutes. I’ll be with Devin at Georgia Tech tomorrow. “I’m sorry, ma’am,” I say, so careful to keep my words even, but I can feel my hands balling into fists. “What would you—?”

     And suddenly Amy swoops in, dropping two mugs of coffee down. “Sorry about that, you two,” she says, her voice extra high. “The machine was conking out on us, but it’s fine now.”

     Once the coffee is down, she hooks onto a chunk of my shirt, steering us back to the bar.

     “Thanks,” I mutter, embarrassed to have forgotten something so basic. Again.

     “Just keep it together, man,” she says. “Maybe you’d be better off with that creepy night shift where all the truckers and serial killers come in.”

     Honestly, at least the serial killers wouldn’t care about my jump shot.

     It’s a few minutes before my break, but clearly I need it. “I’ll be in the back room.”

     Right before I can head that way though, someone straight-up bursts into the diner and rushes over to me at the bar. It’s a middle-aged dad type, sunburned skin, beer belly, and stained T-shirt.

     “Pickup order?” I ask.

     “You should be ashamed,” he sneers at me. He has a really strong Southern accent, but it’s not Georgian. “Think you’re so high and mighty, that nothing’ll ever affect you? My kid’ll never go to college because of you and your lifestyle. Fuck you, Barclay Ell—”

     And before this man can finish cursing my name, Pat of all people runs in, wide-eyed in humiliation. “Jesus, Dad, please don’t—”

      I pin my gaze on him, remembering how he cowered on the bench as Ostrowski went off, how he didn’t even try to approach me. “Don’t even bother,” I snap.

     I shove a to-go bag into his dad’s arms, relieved it’s prepaid, and storm off to the break room.]

     Amy finds me head in my arms a minute or two later. I look up, rubbing my eyes. “Please spare me the pity.”

     She snorts and hands me a milkshake. Mint chocolate chip. “Wouldn’t dare.” She takes a seat and rolls her shoulders and neck, cracks sounding through the tiny room. “Do you want a distraction or a shoulder to cry on?”

For more information, and to purchase your copy of Time Out, click here.

Reframing the COVID-19 Pandemic Through a Stage Manager’s Eyes
By: Kaitlyn Riggio
5 July 2022

When the COVID-19 pandemic was declared a national emergency in the United States in March 2020, Broadway veteran stage manager Richard Hester watched the nation’s anxiety unfold on social media.

“No one knew what the virus was going to do,” Hester said. Some people were “losing their minds in abject terror, and then there were some people who were completely denying the whole thing.”

For Hester, the reaction at times felt like something out of a movie. “It was like the Black Plague,” he said. “Some people thought it was going to be like that Monty Python sketch: ‘bring out your dead, bring out your dead.’”

While Hester was also unsure about how the virus would unfold, he felt that his “job as a stage manager is to naturally defuse drama.” Hester brought this approach off the stage and onto social media in the wake of the pandemic.

“I just sort of synthesized everything that was happening into what I thought was a manageable bite, so people could get it,” Hester said. This became a daily exercise for a year. Over two years after the beginning of the pandemic, Hester’s accounts are compiled in the book, Hold Please: Stage Managing A Pandemic. Released earlier this year, the book documents the events of the past two years, filtering national events and day-to-day occurrences through a stage manager’s eyes and storytelling.

When Hester started this project, he had no intention of writing a book. He was originally writing every day because there was nothing else to do. “I am somebody who needs a job or needs a structure,” Hester said.

Surprised to find that people began expecting his daily posts, he began publishing his daily writing to his followers through a Substack newsletter. As his following grew, Hester had to get used to writing for an audience. “I started second guessing myself a lot of the time,” Hester said. “It just sort of put a weird pressure on it.”

Hester said he got especially nervous before publishing posts in which he wrote about more personal topics. For example, some of his posts focused on his experiences growing up in South Africa while others centered on potentially divisive topics, such as the 2020 election and the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Despite some of this discomfort, Hester’s more personal posts were often the ones that got the most response. The experience offered him a writing lesson. “I stopped worrying about the audience and just wrote what I wanted to write about,” Hester said. “All of that pressure that I think as artists we put on ourselves, I got used to it.”

One of Hester’s favorite anecdotes featured in the book centers on a woman who dances in Washington Square Park on a canvas, rain or shine. He said he was “mesmerized by her,” which inspired him to write about her. “It was literally snowing and she was barefoot on her canvas dancing, and that seems to me just a spectacularly beautiful metaphor for everything that we all try and do, and she was living that to the fullest.”

During the creation of Hold Please, Hester got the unique opportunity to reflect in-depth on the first year of the pandemic by looking back at his accounts. He realized that post people would not remember the details of the lockdown; people would “remember it as a gap in their lives, but they weren’t going to remember it beat by beat.”

“Reliving each of those moments made me realize just how full a year it was, even though none of us were doing anything outside,” he adds. “We were all on our couches.” Readers will use the book as a way to relive moments of the pandemic’s first year “without having to wallow in the misery of it,” he hopes.

“I talk about the misery of it, but that’s not the focus of what I wrote... it was about hope and moving forward,” Hester said. “In these times when everything is so difficult, we will figure out a way to get through and we will move forward.”

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