Notes
Local
Connect
News
People
Media
Notes
Connect
People
Notes
Program Info
Connect
People
Notes
Connect
People
Notes
Connect
People
Join the
Team
Notes
Connect
People
Donate

Grantors

No items found.

Sponsors

No items found.

Donors

Donors

No items found.
Meet Our Donors

Tributes

Tributes

No items found.
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

No items found.

Production Staff

No items found.

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

No items found.

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
__wf_reserved_inherit

*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

*

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

*

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

*

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

*

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

*

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. 

Media

No items found.
2021 National Touring Cast

Pre-Show Snack or
Post-Show Dinner?

Don’t let the evening end when the curtain comes down. With The Marquee Local, you can find the perfect place for a pre-show snack, an evening meal, or a post-show cocktail. Enjoy exclusive deals from our local partners as you catch up, discuss the show, and create memories to last a lifetime.

Grab a Bite
Pre-show or post-show, our local partners have your dining needs covered
Raise a Glass
Settle into that post-show glow with a stellar drink in hand

Grab a Bite

There are currently no restaurants to peruse.

Raise a Glass

There are currently no bars to peruse.

While You Wait

With the help of our friends at Theatrely.com, Marquee Digital has you covered with exclusive content while you wait for the curtain to rise.

Harvey Fierstein Will Receive 2025 Special Tony For Lifetime Achievement In Theatre
Alan Koolik
April 24, 2025

Harvey! Today, The Tony Awards Administration Committee announced today that legendary actor and writer, and four-time Tony Award winner, Harvey Fierstein will receive the 2025 Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre.

Harvey Fierstein is the winner of four Tony Awards: two for Torch Song Trilogy (Best Play and Best Actor in a Play) as well as Tony Awards for Best Book of a Musical for La Cage Aux Folles and Best Actor in a Musical for Hairspray. He has also written the Tony-winning hit Kinky Boots along with Newsies, Casa Valentina, A Catered Affair, Safe Sex, Bella Bella!, Legs Diamond, Spookhouse, Flatbush Tosca, Common Ground and more. He revised the book for Funny Girl, which had a hit run on Broadway and a multi-city North American tour, following its London production. His children’s book, The Sissy Duckling (Humanitas Award), is now in its fifth printing, and his New York Times bestselling memoir I Was Better Last Night is available on Knopf. 

“Harvey Fierstein’s contributions to the American theatre, both as an artist and activist, represent an extraordinary legacy,” said Heather Hitchens, President & CEO of the American Theatre Wing and Jason Laks, President of the Broadway League.  “We are thrilled to honor him with this year’s Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre Award and can’t wait to celebrate one of our icons at the Tony Awards on June 8th.” 

Some of the luminaries previously honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award include Carol Channing, Graciela Daniele, Joel Gray, Jane Greenwood, Sheldon Harnick, Julie Harris, Rosemary Harris, Jerry Herman, James Earl Jones, John Kander, Angela Lansbury, Marshall W. Mason, Terrence McNally, Jack O’Brien, Harold Prince, Chita Rivera, Marian Seldes, Stephen Sondheim, Tommy Tune, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Harold Wheeler, and George C. Wolfe.

The 78th Annual Tony Awards will return to the legendary Radio City Music Hall in New York City later this year. Hosted by Tony, Emmy, and GRAMMY Award-winner and three-time Oscar nominee Cynthia Erivo, The American Theatre Wing’s Tony Awards will broadcast LIVE to both coasts on Sunday, June 8, 2025 (8:00 – 11:00 PM ET/5:00 – 8:00 PM PT) on the CBS Television Network, and streaming on Paramount+ in the U.S.*.  

Trust Me, You Will Want To Know Ainsley Melham
Kobi Kassal
April 24, 2025

There is one thing for certain, when director Jerry Mitchell compares his leading man to Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire, it’s safe to assume they are pretty talented. Enter Ainsley Melham. 

Growing up in Australia, Melham has made a name for himself in the Land Down Under playing lead roles in everything from Merrily We Roll Along to Wicked to The Normal Heart, and trust me this list goes on and on and on. After landing the leading role of Dwayne in Boop! The Musical now on Broadway, Melham is getting his chance to truly shine. 

I recently caught up with Melham after opening night to chat all things Boop, catching one of those iconic red balloons, and finding himself in Dwayne.

Our conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity. All photography was shot on film by Carianne Older for Theatrely.

Theatrely: So how was opening night last week?

Melham: Oh my gosh, it was wonderful and so, so thrilling. I had my family there all the way from Australia. You know, this is my first opening on Broadway...I was here with Aladdin, but stepped into the cast as a replacement in Aladdin. Such an exciting night.

I'm curious, what was your history with Betty Boop as a character before stepping into this project?

We know who Betty Boop is in Australia but she's much more part of the cultural fabric of this country. And so when I heard about the project and got the brief, I was like, “Oh, this is interesting. I wonder how this sort of show will hit with audiences.” Even if you don't know much about the history of Betty Boop, you certainly know the character and perhaps what she stands for. And that's all you really need to know coming into this show because everything else is new and we get to you with a new story and new music.

__wf_reserved_inherit

I think it's so refreshing for a leading man on Broadway to be a true triple threat — we just don’t see it anymore. It's just a thrill to watch. So I want to dive into the character of Dwayne. Tell me, to start out, how did you land the role? 

I sort of made the move permanently here at the top of 2023 in March. I'd been back and forth for a while doing Aladdin and other projects, but I nailed down the Green Card and made the decision to move permanently. I knew Jerry and went into the room, sang the material, and I think it was a week and a half later and I heard I had received an offer. Dwayne is not a character in the Betty Boop canon; he's not a Fleischer Studios character. So he's completely new in this musical. It gave me room to fully realize him in a way that felt true and real to me. And in reality, he's just a guy, he's a young musician, you know, trying to carve out his way in New York City. So it's not unlike my own story as a young actor trying to carve out a space. 

I want to circle back to that for a second, but when you decided to make the move here full time, was that for work purposes? Was it to pursue a career on Broadway?

Yeah, it was for work. You know, I worked for about 10 years really successfully in Australia. And then Disney brought me here with Aladdin. In that situation, it's very specific. You're brought here on an entertainment visa and you are contracted to the show. And so part of my decision to come back with the Green Card was to come back unattached to anything just to see where that would lead me. I'm obviously very grateful to Disney and the opportunities that they provided, but I wanted to come back and be part of something original. And to do that, I had to come back on my own and take that risk in a way to see if I could land something. I'm really happy and glad that it paid off. So this was definitely a move for the career and I hope that I can stay here for a little while and see what New York has to offer. 

Were you always a lover of jazz, or was that a newfound thing with Dwayne?

I've always been a lover of that style. I've been a tap dancer since I was very young. And so tap and jazz like this go sort of hand in hand really. So jazz has always been a part of my life and a part of my regular sort of playlist. But doing the show and stepping into this character has certainly allowed me to dive deeper into that, which is exciting.

Did you know how to play the trumpet or did they give you lessons before hopping on the stage?

I did not know how to play the trumpet at all. I had some lessons to get me up to speed, but like anything, that's a skill that you work on from when you're very young. It's a hard thing to try and emulate every night, but I'm doing my best! When someone comes up to me at the stage door and tells me I played wonderfully, I know I'm doing something right! 

__wf_reserved_inherit

Obviously Bob Martin is a genius musical comedy writer. I'm curious how much of—since Dwayne is not in the canon of Boop—how much of yourself did you put into the character?

They were so generous and collaborative when it came to everyone in the cast, even Jasmine as Betty, which is such a realized and popular character. But for Dwayne, the team was really open and welcoming of ideas for this character. I came to this city because I was missing something and that wasn't really in the character of Dwyane—it was something Bob and I really discussed. 

And then I'm curious on the flip side of that, is there something that the character of Dwayne has taught you? 

I think he has taught me to trust myself more on stage because there is so much of myself in this character that can be quite scary and vulnerable. And because Dwayne is sort of the most real or natural character in this show, amongst all of these more heightened and cartoonish characters, it can sometimes feel a bit exposing to stand up there and trust that what you're doing is enough when you're delivering a performance that is—it feels weird to say naturalistic in the music theater world—but that is more natural than Betty Boop and Grampy and all of these other characters. So I guess Dwayne has taught me to trust in myself, Ainsley the actor, and know that what he's delivering is enough.

Tell me about collaborating with David Foster, who I personally think has written one of the cachiest scores in recent memory. 

I mean, David Foster has produced for just the most incredible people, one of whom is Michael Bublé. Bublé was one of the artists that I listened to from young because he was emulating and paying homage to those crooners of the 30s and 40s, whom I love so much. So then stepping into a room with David and singing this sort of music, which feels so jazz and big band inspired, is incredible. And then we were in Chicago. When we were in Chicago, we added a song for Dwayne, She Knocks Me Out. And so David wrote this song over the weekend and came in and said, here I've written you your Bublé song, which is insane. You would have told a little boy from Bathurst County, Australia, that he'd be working with David Foster and he'd get his own Michael Bublé song. It's pretty incredible. 

When you think about that you are starring in a big Broadway musical and on the press tour Jerry Mitchell is out there comparing you to Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly, wow does that sit with you as an actor? Obviously it's high praise and extremely well-deserved, but how does it feel?

I have a lot of beautiful friends around me who keep reminding me of that fact—they'll text me or when I speak to them, they're like, “Ainsley, you're doing the thing that we all aim for in one way or another, you're originating the role and you're going it so beautifully and he's comparing you to Gene Kelly, like what the hell?” So it's in those moments, I think, that sometimes it takes somebody else to go, “Hey, just take a breath and realize,” because you can get caught up in it. You get caught in the process, you put a lot of pressure and stress on yourself and you can sometimes lose sight of the fun and the pinch me moment of it. But in those moments where I do reflect, it feels... it feels really... you know, I've danced and sung and worked in this way since I was very, very young. Since I was three years old, I had tap shoes on my feet and I've idolized those sorts of figures all through my childhood and through my professional career. So to have somebody like Jerry turn around and make that comparison, it sort of doesn't feel real sometimes.

I think my favorite part of your preview process were the balloons outside that you could just see all around Midtown. Did you ever take a balloon?

Oh my gosh, yes. And you know, as I was walking home the other day, halfway up 9th Avenue, I walked past a brownstone and I could see a balloon just in the living room, through the window. And I was like, “Oh my gosh, that person's been at the show!” These balloons are finding themselves all over Manhattan. It's really cool.

__wf_reserved_inherit

The show is such a lovely love letter to New York City. I'm curious, where do you find yourself on days off?

That's a good question. Well, you know, I live so close to Central Park, I'm just a couple of blocks away. That's usually how I start my day or if I have a day off, I'll go and sit in the park. It probably seems extremely touristy. But you know I lived and grew up in Australia and spent much time in Sydney where we have direct access to the beach and to beautiful nature reserves all around us. So Central Park for me is my dose of that.

The thing that I think is undisputed about this production is that Jasmine Amy Rodgers is really cementing herself as a true bonafide Broadway star. I'm curious, what is it like to watch her journey through your eyes on stage every night opposite her?

Jasmine offstage is such a clown, and we get along like brother and sister. So in that way, it's sort of unbelievable and hard to resolve the fact that this sort of clownish, goofy, you-know, little sister type offstage is stepping on stage and delivering this absolutely incredible star-making performance. Not that I doubt it from her, but when you stand back and watch from the sidelines, you're like, “Oh, wow, this is really incredible. Where was she pulling this from inside of her?” I'm so thrilled that this show came along and was met with Jasmine's talent because she is the character, she is Betty Boop. When you hear her laugh in real life, it's the same laugh you hear on stage, you know? There's so much of her in Betty. And it just took a vehicle like this for people to see it and realize it. And now I'm excited, not that I'm wishing this experience away, but I am excited to see where it goes from here, because it's only art. 

When someone looks at your resume, I'm sure it's a resume that young actors aspire to. I'm curious, what advice do you have for young folks who want to get into the business and start a career that looks like yours?

When people ask me that question, I always say that you just need to stand firm in what makes you you in the audition room, what you have to offer. I don't really see myself—this might seem odd from someone on the outside looking in—but I don't really see myself as the particularly strong, tall, leading man type. When I was doing Wicked, I would step onto the stage as Fiyero and half the ensemble was taller than I am and traditionally they cast really tall, strapping guys in in that role and so here I am going, “Okay, well I'm playing this role which is really cool but it sort of it feels a little bit, you know, against time aesthetically,” if you will. But, you know, I'm trusting that whatever I'm bringing as Ainsley is enough. So, you can't be like anyone else. You're never going to. People can see through it so easily. So, for young people, I think they need to find their point of view and just stand firm in that.

When you wrap up Boop and you're reflecting back in five, ten, twenty years, what do you want to remember most about this time right now? 

Oh gosh. Um... I think just how happy we make people. You can sort of get caught up in the politics and in what people think, what critics think, which casting people are in the audience and what would they think of my performance and will it be enough to get me the next gig or whatever. But when we stand up there at the end of each show and the whole audience is on their feet and they're all singing and smiling — it's so joyous. I mean, that's really what we're there to do. It's why we go back each night. It's why we stay in this career, to move people. And for this, in this show, we're moving them to such beautiful joy. And so I think I want to remember that. 

Before we go, I have to ask, if you were at Comic Con, who would you dress up as? 

Oh my gosh. Well, I have sort of two options. It would either be like a Studio Ghibli character, maybe Howl from Howl's Moving Castle?? Or I have always loved Sailor Moon! 

Cathartic Communication in the Haunting New GRIEF CAMP — Review
Juan A. Ramirez
April 23, 2025

We don’t learn much about its characters’ particular reasons for being there and, save for a few lines deployed in ways that skirt the thud of exposition, might not even know where they are. The limits and limitations of communication are central to Grief Camp, a haunting, humane new play by the 27-year-old (!) Eliya Smith, premiering in an excellent Atlantic Theater production.

Though the realistic cabin set (by Louisa Thompson) visible before the one-act’s start doesn’t hint at anguish to come, the mood is betrayed by the damp, blue-green summer light which bathes it (excellently rendered by Isabella Byrd). Its young inhabitants have regular teen conversations, about crushes and their home lives and who’s been craving too much attention, but their vibe is decidedly off – eerie, even. None of them seem to be able or willing to connect with each other, as if in avoidance.

Of course, as the title conveys, they are there because they’re each dealing with some sort of grief, one which might hopefully be resolved by season’s end. To divulge the details of their grief would not really spoil anything, but feels beside the point. The tone of their interactions, and what their timbre says about how they all cope, form the backbone of the play, which Smith and director Les Waters present in an unusually cinematic way. Some scenes stretch the length of a conversation, others offer glimpses of bedtime chats, brief morning routine, or interludes by a zen, speechless guitarist (Alden Harris-McCoy). A particularly cryptic one gestures at the kind of therapy they might be receiving there: its seven participants lined up at the edge of the stage, sitting silently with different comfort foods (a glass of milk, a bowl of spaghetti), which they eat when prompted by the camp’s unseen head psychiatrist, Rocky (Danny Wolohan).

__wf_reserved_inherit
The company of Grief Camp | Photo: Ahron R. Foster

The effect is almost that of skipping through security camera footage, or a timelapse carefully calibrated between the lighting’s cuts. That need-to-know basis is also how we get to know the campers: Cade (Jack DiFalco), an adult counselor who’s mother’s passing led him there years prior; sisters Ester (Lark White) and Olivia (Renée-Nicole Powell), the latter of whom grasps at control by hypersexualizing her interactions with Cade; Luna (Grace Brennan), who wields her weirdness defensively; Blue (Maaike Laanstra-Corn), whose oddness comes naturally, and through the thinly-veiled plays she writes; Bard (Arjun Athalye), a shy, hurting boy; and Gideon (Dominic Gross), who’s toughness shields him from the brink of collapse.

A stunning sequence finds them all haphazardly exorcising their emotions during a thunderstorm (designed, not superfluously, by Jeremy Chernick), and the closest descriptor within reach here – emblematic of the whole play – is that they all act as if on psychedelics; as if each is undergoing something immense and overwhelming but cannot express it, left alone to wander through a subjective experience where the cleanest past forward is through, and through impulse alone.

It’s not all traumatic. Grief and its manifestation are funny that way. Grief Camp offers plenty of room for humor and for touching insights into the ways we move about our lives carrying memories both burdensome and beautiful. The play trusts us to consider its title’s significance throughout with the gentle nudge of a catharsis-in-waiting, and to trust in continuing power from Smith.

Grief Camp is in performance through May 11, 2025 at the Atlantic Theater Company on West 20th 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.”

Connect
Games

Media

No items found.

Let's Connect

Theatre is all about connection. Follow us to keep in touch and stay up to date on all the latest news!

Let's Connect

Theatre is all about connection. Follow us to keep in touch and stay up to date on all the latest news!

No items found.

Check out this Legally Blonde digital program by @Marquee.Digital.

Waiting for the Show to Start?

The Marquee has you covered.

Places in 5
Can you find the winning word in time?
Marquee Match
Find the match & take a bow.

Join the Team

Connect
Games

Media

Let's Connect

Theatre is all about connection. Follow us to keep in touch and stay up to date on all the latest news!

Let's Connect

Theatre is all about connection. Follow us to keep in touch and stay up to date on all the latest news!

Waiting for the Show to Start?

The Marquee has you covered.

Places in 5
Can you find the winning word in time?
Marquee Match
Find the match & take a bow.
At This Performance
Hello! Please use portrait mode when viewing Marquee Digital Programs on a mobile device, in order to ensure the best user experience.
Event Date has Passed

Hello! It appears your event date has passed. You  can view the archived Event Marquee for 5 minutes before this pop up gets activated.

Event Preview

Hello! This is the Preview limit for your Event until the show's Opening Day. You will be able to view the Marquee for 5 minutes before this pop up gets activated. Simply refresh the page to restart the timer.