ON STAGE - Seacoast Repertory Theatre...Cast Member $100-$199 Ann & Ron Ablowich Don & Abbie-Jane...

ON STAGESEACOAST REPERTORY THEATRE

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Dining on the water’s edge

THESEACOAST REPERTORY THEATRE

PRESENTS

PLAYWRIGHTNAJEE BROWN

STOKLEY & MARTIN DIRECTOR SANDI CLARK KEDDY

NEVEAH'S BROTHER DIRECTOR DENISE GORDON

STAGE MANAGERKATE DUGAS

ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGERJAYNA WHEELER

MUSIC DIRECTORYAMICA PETERSON

LIGHT DESIGNERMATTHEW BRIAN COST

SOUND DESIGNERANDREW CAMERON

COSTUME DESIGNERHADLEY WITHINGTON

PROPERTIES DESIGNERELISE O'CONNELL

SET DESIGNERSBEN HART & BRANDON JAMES

SCENIC ARTISTKATE DUGAS

The videotaping or other video or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited

Find us just a few blocks from the theater, at 99 Bow Street, Suite W.

Visit our website martingalewharf.com for menus and hours.

603.431.0901

MARTINGALEWHARF.COM

JOIN US BEFORE OR AFTER THE SHOW, BRING YOUR TICKET, AND

RECEIVE 15% OFF YOUR BILL

Dining on the water’s edge

Stokley and MartinNeveah's BrotherTrigger Warnings

Stokley and Martin • Graphic Historic Images • Strong Language

Neveah's Brother• Gunshots and Police Sirens• Strong Language• Suicide

Please communicate with the box office should this be something you would like to avoid


PRESENTS

DIRECTOR BRYAN KNOWLTON

STAGE MANAGERKATE DUGAS

ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGERHADLEY WITHINGTON

MUSIC DIRECTORANDREW STROUT

CHOREOGRAPHERBRYAN KNOWLTON



COSTUME DESIGNERDW




NEXT TO NORMALPresented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI(mtishows.com)


MUSIC BY TOM KITT

BOOK & LYRICS BYBRIAN YORKEY


PRESENTS

ORIGINAL BROADWAY PRODUCTION PRODUCED BYDAVID STONE,

JAMES L NEDERLANDER, BARBARA WHITMAN,

PATRICK CATULLO AND

NEW YORK PREMIERE PRODUCED BYSECOND STAGE THEATRE, NEW YORK.

FEBRUARY 2008,CAROLE ROTHMAN, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR ELLEN RICHARD, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

'NEXT TO NORMAL' WAS SUBSEQUENTLY PRODUCED BYARENA STAGE IN NOVEMBER 2008

DEVELOPED AT VILLAGE THEATRE, ISSAQUAH, WAROBB HUNT, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER

STEVE TOMKINS, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

AN EARLIER VERSION WAS PRESENTED IN THE 2005 NEW YORK MUSICAL THEATRE FESTIVAL.

SUPPORT FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF "NEXT TO NORMAL" WAS PROVIDED BY THE JONATHAN

LARSON FOUNDATION.

Next to NormalTrigger Warnings

• Depictions of mental health• Intense loss• Attempted suicide• Drug use

Please communicate with the box office should this be something you would like to avoid

________________________________

Below you will find organizations/resources regarding Mental Health, Mental Illness and Recovery Programs

within the region:

Seacoast Mental Health Center 603-431-6703NH Community Behavioral Health Association (603) 225-6633

NH Department of Health and Human Services (800) 852-3345NH Division of Child and Family Services (603) 433-8300

NH Division Juvenile Justice (603) 271-6200NH Bureau of Behavioral Health (603) 271-5000

NH Bureau of Drug and Alcohol Services (603) 225-7060

If you or someone you know is at risk for suicide, please call our crisis-suicide prevention hotline at (603) 433-5270,

option 1. If you are calling from outside of New Hampshire, please call (800) 273-TALK (8255).


PRESENTS

DIRECTORS BEN HART & BRANDON JAMES

STAGE MANAGERZACHARY AHMAD-KAHLOON

ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGERJAYNA WHEELER

MUSIC DIRECTORTIM GOSS

CHOREOGRAPHERSJASON FARIA, ALYSSA DUMAS



COSTUME DESIGNERDW




THE FANTASTICKSPresented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI(mtishows.com)


BASED ON LES ROMANESQUES BY EDMOND ROSTAND

BOOK BY

TOM JONESMUSIC BY

HARVEY SCHMIDTLYRICS BY

TOM JONES

Many Thanks ToThe Block

all of our volunteers - There are too many of you to list, and we would hate to miss anyone. So we are just

going to say a HUGE THANK YOU to every single volunteer. Volunteers come in many

forms from ushers, to committee members, to stage hands, crew members, carpenters, artists, performers, and more. We could not do what

we do without you. You are loved!

Your Neighborhood Apple Experts

The Technology Partner of the Seacoast Rep

Bowl-o-rama Plaza, Route 1, Portsmouth, NH

www.MacEdge.com

MEMBERS

Seacoast Repertory Theatre is deeply grateful for the support from the following corporate, private, government, and family foundations.

Geoffrey E. Clark and Martha Fuller Clark Fund of the New Hampshire Charitable FoundationIBM Internation FoundationThe Provident Community FoundationThoresen and Werner Families Fund of the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation Autodesk FoundationFidelity CharitableDana Romney Memorial Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Communal FundGive with Liberty Foundation Match & Employee DonationWendy L Klodt Give with Liberty Employee DonationJoseph G. and Jean E. Sawtelle Fund of the New Hampshire Charitable FoundationRichard A Morton Endowment for Theatre By The Sea

The Rep gratefully acknowledges the following donors for their support.If your name has been omitted from this list, please contact us and we will make a correction in the next program.

Patron $200-$499Lea & Nick AeschlimanFrank AnthonyRose Marie BaileyLarry Brown & Linda Conforti-BrownJoan & Dave CorwinJonathan & Polly DavieKyrstin DiasGail DrobnykSusan & Bob DumasWayne & Marie GagnonMark & Julie GellerSusan GileJan HansenJo Lynne & David JohnsonSteven KrusemarkBob LeGros & Barbara FranzosoPatrick LottBrad & Carol MeadeSammi MoeMary-Jo Monusky & Peter N. CareyPaula O'BrienPaul & Pam OckertChristine & Jennifer ParentKevin & Carol RodenbergBill & Jill SchoonmakerLaurence SmithWilliam SmithSandra SweeneySimonida & Christopher ThurberJanis Wolak

Cast Member $100-$199Ann & Ron AblowichDon & Abbie-Jane AndersonElaine BurnhamTish CampbellPaul CanfieldRonald CharlandGay & John ClausonRoland CoteAndrew & Michelle DouglassJennifer Dunn & Mike MorganMaria & Dave EmanuelBonnie & William EsteyKeith Eveland Jeanne FullerJudy GagnonJennifer & Bruce GoodwinRebecca GouldRoger GounFrances GreenJoseph Gross & Renee Heinzen Geno HardeeSean HartnettDonald & Maureen HawkinsArt & Sherry HoffmanAnna Howard Gayle & Bob HylenDoreen & Lawrence JamiesonAlison JohnstonClark KnowlesKen & Jean KriedbergSandy Labranche & Jackie Sherwin

Producer $5000+ Alan & Susan GoldPaul & Helen GoranssonGillian M. AguilarElisabeth SturgesCindy & Rick Dumont, Rosemont EngineeringKatelyn Kwoka & Rebecca Perkins

Sue & Bob Thoresen

DirectorBrian Gibb & Chris Williams

Designer $1000-$2499Kevin & Janet McCannPeggy & David ConnorsMary Jane SolomonKaren & Chris EriksonRobin Lurie-Meyerkopf & Rick Meyerkopf

Stage Manager $500-$999Ben & Clarice AndreozziTatiana Carvajal & Randall MikkelsenThe Cochrane FamilyGeoffrey & Nancy DayJo HaskellDon & Karen IrvingLarry & Carolyn JohansenGeorge & Debbie LongCatherine and Eugene LynchSue MeganJohn Heath & Michael MeserveDane & Christine PetersAnne Romney & Tim HayesMary Ann & Russell West

Intern $50-$99David BackstromVicky BarretteSusan BergCynthia Cable & FriendsMary CaulfieldLaurie ClarkEllen CohnMary DombrowskiDavid & Linda DowLinda & Mark EdwardsGreta EvansCari Feingold & Todd CreamerRon FortierMichael & Barbara GagneLea GottfredsonCraig & Stephanie GreenBernie HarperJohn HartCynthia HarvellGerrie HoldenEstelle HrabakJoseph & Marisa JanackEileen & Carl KackenmeisterHoward & Joanne KaletKatherine O'SheaDianne KeidaischMichiyo LameyerRobert LimaJohn Bohenko & Nancy London

Cast Member $100-$199Jessica Levine & Josef MohrenweiserBill & Andrea LottDenise MartelHenry & Linda MasciocchiJeffrey MasorsSue & John MellinJudy Miller & Arthur CarakatsaneDana MordiniDorothy MorettiMary & Jim NoucasKim OatesVictoria OberlinGordon & Carolyn PagePamela RacicotPatrice & Stephen RascheKathy RichardPeter RileyLinda RunnalsSusan Scannell & Kevin FlemingJane ShanahanJeff & Genie SmithLucinda SpaneyRichard StevensSpencer & Marjory StonemetzBill & Bella SwayzeDianne & Henry ThebergeMary TremblayKaren UebeleElizabeth S. WarnerRobert and Diane WeirMelissa Koren WilsonCynthia WojcickiNancy ZadravecChuck & Laura Zercher

Seath & Nicole Love CrandallMary Beth MahoneyBecky MardenLisa MartinRobert MorleyAnn MowersBrian MullaneDavid NelsonHeather and Jimmy NoucasJohn & Mary-ann PeacheyBibian & Deborah PlanteKaren SmithDennis & Ann SoutoLou & Sharon StamasEugene StraussbergJanet SullivanDavid SullivanAndrew and Cristy TrippMartha WalshJanice WithamDonna & Gary WoodsAmy & Nathan WoodsmithScott & Regan Zimmermann

MEMBERS cont.

FAQ: What is the difference between a Subscriber and a Member?

A subscription is a season ticket. It gets you tickets to every (or almost every) show. You get to pick your seats well in advance and get a hefty 20% discount off of single-ticket price.

A membership is a one-time or recurring donation that supports our award-winning programs. Membership has great perks like exclusive events, names in the program, and discounts at local businesses.

Members support the day-to-day operations of the theatre and allow us to maintain affordable ticket prices and tuitions. With your tax-deductible contribution. The Rep will continue to entertain, educate and inspire - which in turn, improves the community and contributes to the economic and cultural vitality of the Seacoast.

Welcome to Seacoast Repertory Theatre’s 2021 season! We would like to take a moment to express our immense gratitude for you, our audience. Without your support, our doors would not be open, and we would not be one of the only theatres in the nation to stay in operation, serving our community throughout the entire pandemic.

As we began to develop our 2021 season, we saw a common thread emerging that we also saw mirrored in the world around us. In this past year, we have seen our communities struggling with a pandemic, yes, but perhaps even more widespread than that, struggling with addiction, suicide, mental health and the everyday navigation of a complicated reality. We have seen friends and family members falling into deep despair over the state of the world, confronting change and challenges previously unknown to this generation. At the same time, we have seen the arts, and the performing arts in particular, put on the nation’s backburner, as if art is a lesser priority than other necessities.

As human beings we strive for a sense of normalcy, we long for escape, we long for the oasis that is art, and culture, and the profound human expression that is the shared experience of live theatre. As we watch our friends, our families, our peers struggle with depression and isolation, and we talk to the patrons that have shared in the art we have offered throughout the pandemic, we know that theatre should never be considered optional, or expendable. Furthermore, it is our RESPONSIBILITY, as artists, to continue to offer that profound, cathartic experience to the public. Throughout history, in times of darkness, it has been the artists that have led the way, and spoken truth, and ushered in new ways of thinking, keeping the flame in humanity’s heart alight when it seems like there is only night.

Seacoast Repertory Theatre’s 2021 season features stories of mental health struggles, stories of growing up and facing adulthood and the “real world”, of finding family, connection, and magic in the darkest of nights. Stories of hope, and of overcoming our own inner obstacles. These stories are mirrored by our very real belief in our power, as a light in our community, to be that star in the night sky, and pull up humanity with the uplifting power only live theatre art can offer. With all of this in mind, we are calling this season “2021 - Recover”. Not just for the recovery of the theatre after the massive financial hit this past year has been, but also the recovery of our emotional, mental and spiritual well-being as a community and as a species on this planet. In 2021 we are promoting a message of emotional health, and partnering with seacoast organizations that focus on suicide prevention, recovery from addiction, and the mental and emotional well-being of the community. These organizations have provided resources in our lobby, for you or anyone you know who just needs a bit of a helping hand. You are not alone!

As we continue to rely on you, the community that has believed in and supported us throughout 2020, please rely on us, and know that we believe in YOU! We are here for you, whenever you need a moment of pause, or a new world to explore, or a bit of that catharsis that seems to have a way of clearing the mind and cleansing the soul. We can make it through anything, as long as we do it together.

Artistic Director’s Directors' Note

Ben Hart & Brandon JamesArtistic Directors

Did You Know?The FBI circulated the following memo after King's "I Have a Dream" Speech:In the light of King’s powerful demagogic speech yesterday he stands heads and shoulders over all other Negro leaders put together when it comes to influencing great masses of Negros. We must mark him now, if we have not done so before, as the most dangerous Negro of the future in this nation from the standpoint of communism, the Negro, and national security. Najee Browns’ Stokley and Martin tells a story of a prophetic conversation that took place in 1967 between Martin Luther King Jr., Stokley Carmichael, Willie Ricks, and Cleveland Sellers.Stokley Carmichael was a prominent organizer of the civil rights movement and a major voting rights activist who was inspired by Malcom X. He was a leader in the Black Power movement, as well as the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), and was one of the original SNCC freedom riders of 1961.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a Baptist Minister well-known for his non-violent leadership role in the Civil Rights movement and was president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). J Edgar Hoover considered King a radical who was influenced by Communists and subjected him to FBI surveillance.

Willie Ricks and Cleveland Sellers both supported the SNCC, the Black Power movement, voter registration, the Black Panther movement and more.

This play takes place during the turbulent 1960s when Black folks were killed because of the racial hatred that was openly expressed and commonplace in many communities throughout the U.S. during those times. As I read the script and began shaping this play, from time to time I had to fight back tears because we are still fighting these same battles today. It is a tragedy that racial injustices, hatred and bigotry still exist in this country.

During the process of getting this show on its feet, I was reminded of how exciting it was to be a part of the Najee Brown’s Sol Series. I had the pleasure of recently playing the part of Deborah in his play The Bus Stop, with an all-black female cast.

Stokley and Martin Director’s Note

Now, I have the opportunity to direct another Najee play, working with an all-black, and predominately male cast. It’s wonderful to be involved with a playwright who writes strong, intellectual roles for actors of color.

Our goal as a people should be to eliminate racism. By providing teachers with proper resources we can educate and enlighten our youth. By providing law enforcement with necessary training to deescalate situations, eliminate racial profiling and reform our prison system, we can make our communities free of fear and injustice. Educating families on equality, justice and the importance of not judging someone by the color of their skin is imperative. To work together as a people. To continue to dialog so both sides can understand and care for one another. To overcome racist ideologies taught to our youth. All this is possible.

I’m proud to share this message and have the opportunity to direct Stokley and Martin.

Stokley and Martin Director’s Note Cont.

Sandi Clark Keddy Stokley and Martin Director

Najee Brown has done it again. Najee stepped on the scene with his debut play “ The Bus Stop.” A play about five black woman at a nobility bus stop. This all black cast, black writer, and blackdirector took the seacoast by surprise. Nevaeh’s Brother is no different as the words dance through your mind the message plays the mu-sic of honor, nobility, freedom and control over and over in your head.

Najee and the Sol Series has brought a unique perspective to help open up honest and real conversation to help people better understand systematic racism that has plagued our country for decades. Nevaeh’s Brother is a beautifully written piece of art that navigates you though the heart of a young black man. A young man who is a product of our society and after 30 plus year takecontrol of his life.

I was honored when he asked me to direct “Nevaeh’s Brother” is a story about a young black man and his sister who live in New York City. The story is about joy and pain, truth and lies, chaos and control, life and death, but most of all freedom.

“Is there a difference between being alive and living”? Some might feel this question is answered in this play. As we look at life though the lens of a young black man and women. A man who felt counted out his whole life. His whole life under the control of others, never feeling free to be who he was meant to be. He spends most of his life in and out of jail he has two children with a woman he is not living with. Recently released from prison he struggles to stay whole and out of trouble.

“There is safety and security in being in control” This is Nevaeh motto always had it together on the outside. Nevaeh is beautiful, strong, confident, but deep inside her whole world is falling apart. The death of her mom, failed relationship, and her constant worry about her brother has turned her life upside down. She is out of control for the first time in her life Over a home cook meal, photos, and music it is uncovered that Nevaeh wants to leave withplans to go back to Africa and Brother has a perfect plan to take back con-trol of his life too.

Neveah's Brother Director’s Note Cont.

Denise GordonNeveah's Brother Director

STOKLEY AND MARTINSETTING

THE BASEMENT OF THE KING'S ATLANTA, GEORGIA HOME

EARLY 1967

SONG LISTCalvary...................................................................................Stokley, Willie

We Shall Overcome................................Willie, Stokley, Martin, Cleve

Strange Fruit......................................................................Willie, Company

Lift Ev'ry Voice.................................................................................Company

THERE WILL BE A 15 MINUTE INTERMISSION BETWEEN SHOWS

STOKLEY AND MARTINCAST

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.....................................................Najee BrownStokley Carmichael.....................................................Jeff Jean-PhillippeWillie Ricks.....................................................................LaRon Lee HudsonCleve Sellers.......................................................................Keondray LucasCoretta Scott King........................................................Elizabeth HyltonOffstage Vocalist............................................................Shaina Schwartz

NAJEE BROWN JEFF JEAN-PHILLIPPE

LARON LEE HUDSON

KEONDRAY LUCAS

ELIZABETH HYLTON SHAINA SCHWARTZ

NEVEAH'S BROTHERCAST

Neveah..........................................................Elizabeth Hylton

Brother.......................................................LaRon Lee Hudson

LARON LEE HUDSON

ELIZABETH HYLTON

Playwright..............................................................................................................Najee BrownStokley and Martin Director................................................................Sandi Clark KeddyNeveah's Brother Director...........................................................................Denise GordanStage Manager.........................................................................................................Kate DugasAssistant Stage Manager................................................................................Jayna WheelerStokley and Martin Music Director......................................................Yamica PetersonLighting Designer..................................................................................Matthew Brian CostSound Designer,Sound Board Operator............................................Andrew CameronProperties Designer.......................................................................................Elise O'connellCostume Designer...................................................................................Hadley WithingtonSet Designers...............................................................................Ben Hart & Brandon JamesScenic Artist..............................................................................................................Kate DugasArtistic Directors.....................................................................Ben Hart & Brandon JamesProduction Manager.................................................................Zachary Ahmad-KahloonProduction Assistant.............................................................................................Kate DugasMaster Electrician..............................................................................................Becky MarshElectricians...........................................Jeremy Toussaint, Peter Adams, Patrick Bedell

STOKLEY AND MARTINNEVEAH'S BROTHER PRODUCTION TEAM

In the United States, the National Alliance on Mental Illness estimates that almost 1 in 5 adults experience mental health problems each year. In 2017, an estimated 11.2 million adults in the U.S., or about 4.5%, had a severe psychological condition, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. With mental health already needing additional government support throughout the United States, the current pandemic and its constraints have only intensified these challenges. The isolation of being at home, family stressors or personal stressors without the network received through one's “normal” pre-pandemic life is a significant barrier, creating chronic problems for adults and children alike. One of the most significant ways the pandemic has exacerbated mental health is that it has immersed people even more in a virtual world which breeds anxiety and low self-esteem, both of which in turn can manifest into forms of mental illness.

“Next to Normal,” at its core is about a family navigating survival in uncertainty. Something we all might be able to identify with more than ever. But in a world where a mother struggles with bipolar disorder and a family tries to manage her illness, we indeed find hope. In the lyrics so brilliantly written by Brian Yorkey in this show, “And you find out you don’t have to be happy at all to be happy you’re alive,” we see that the simple things in life are worth taking pause for even when one might feel like they are gripping onto air.

It would be naive and insensitive for me to expand further on the challenges associated with mental illness when I personally haven’t endured the pain others have so acutely experienced. I can only speak as an advocate and supporter of encouragement to bring awareness to mental health and mental illness. By using our voices to fight against the stigma and raising awareness we can ensure compassion, stronger community and support for those who need it.

“Our societal perception of mental health, including mental illness, will not change if we do not take action to change it ourselves.”- Kristen Fuller, M.D.

Bryan KnowltonNext to Normal Director

Next to Normal Director’s Note

NEXT TO NORMAL SONG LIST

Prelude...........................................................................................OrchestraJust Another Day..............................................Diana, Natalie, Gabe, DanEverything Else..................................................................................NatalieWho's Crazy/My Psychopharmacologist and I.........Dan, Diana, Doctor FinePerfect for You.....................................................................Henry, NatalieI Miss the Mountains............................................................................DianaIt's Gonna Be Good.........................................Dan, Natalie, Henry, DianaHe's Not Here.............................................................................................DanYou Don't Know......................................................................................DianaI Am the One.......................................................................Dan, Gabe, DianaSuperboy and the Invisible Girl...........................Natalie, Diana, GabeI'm Alive.....................................................................................................GabeMake Up Your Mind/Catch Me I'm Falling.................................CompanyI Dreamed a Dance.....................................................................Diana, GabeThere's a World.......................................................................................GabeI've Been.......................................................................................................DanDidn't I See This Movie?.......................................................................DianaA Light in the Dark.....................................................................Dan, Diana

~ 15 Minute Intermission ~ Wish I Were Here.................................................................................Diana, NatalieSong of Forgetting...................................................................Dan, Diana, NatalieHey #1.....................................................................................................Henry, NatalieSeconds and Years.....................................................Doctor Madden, Dan, DianaBetter Than Before..................................Doctor Madden, Dan, Natalie, DianaAftershocks...........................................................................................................GabeHey #2.....................................................................................................Henry, NatalieYou Don't Know (Reprise).................................................Diana, Doctor MaddenHow Could I Ever Forget?.......................................................................Diana, DanIt's Gonna Be Good (Reprise)...................................................................Dan, DianaWhy Stay?/A Promise...................................................Diana, Natalie, Dan, HenryI'm Alive (Reprise).................................................................................................GabeThe Break..............................................................................................................DianaMake Up Your Mind/Catch Me I'm Falling (Reprise)........Doctor Madden, Diana, GabeMaybe (Next to Normal)...................................................................Diana, NatalieHey #3/Perfect for You (Reprise)....................................................Henry, NatalieSo Anyway...............................................................................................................DianaI Am the One (Reprise).................................................................................Dan, GabeLight..................................................................................................................Company

NEXT TO NORMALCAST

Diana.........................................................................Jennifer Sue RockwellGabe................................................................................................Jason FariaDan.....................................................................................LaRon Lee HudsonNatalie.......................................................................................Alyssa DumasHenry..............................................................................................Harry PontDoctor Fine, Doctor Madden, Anesthesiologist...............Tobin Moss

ORCHESTRAKeyboard, Conductor........................................................Andrew StroutSynth, Violin.....................................Brooke Lamonica, Jennifer OrelloGuitar.........................................................................................Mike LecuyerBass.............................................................................................Dave ComtoisDrum........................................................................................Dave HamiltonCello.........................................................................................Ian Machemer

JENNIFER SUE ROCKWELL

NEXT TO NORMALCAST

JASON FARIA

LARON LEE HUDSON

ALYSSA DUMAS

HARRY PONT TOBIN MOSS

Director...........................................................................................................Bryan KnowltonStage Manager.........................................................................................................Kate DugasAssistant Stage Manager................................................................................Jayna WheelerMusic Director.................................................................................................Andrew StroutChoreographer.............................................................................................Bryan KnowltonLighting Designer..................................................................................Matthew Brian CostSound Designer,Sound Board Operator............................................Andrew CameronProperties Designer.......................................................................................Elise O'connellCostume Designer...................................................................................................................DWSpotlight Operators..........................Jayna Wheeler, Olivia Krick, Gracie GallagherSet Designers...............................................................................Ben Hart & Brandon JamesScenic Artist..............................................................................................................Kate DugasArtistic Directors.....................................................................Ben Hart & Brandon JamesProduction Manager.................................................................Zachary Ahmad-KahloonProduction Assistant.............................................................................................Kate DugasMaster Electrician..............................................................................................Becky MarshElectricians...........................................Jeremy Toussaint, Peter Adams, Patrick Bedell

NEXT TO NORMAL PRODUCTION TEAM

THE FANTASTICKS

Overture........................................................................................OrchestraTry to Remember..............................................................................El GalloMuch More................................................................................................LuisaMetaphor......................................................................................Matt, LuisaNever Say "No".............................................................Hucklebee, BellomyIt Depends on What You Pay...................El Gallo, Bellomy, HucklebeeSoon It's Gonna Rain..................................................................Matt, LuisaThe Rape Ballet................................................................................CompanyHappy Ending........................................Matt, Luisa, Hucklebee, Bellomy

~ 15 Minute Intermission ~

This Plum is too Ripe..........................Matt, Luisa, Hucklebee, BellomyI Can See It..............................................................................El Gallo, MattPlant a Raddish..........................................................Hucklebee, BellomyRound and Round...............................................El Gallo, Matt, Company

SONG LIST

The musical is suggested by a play Les Romanesques by Edmond Rostand."

Since its opening in May 1960 at the Sullivan Street Playhouse in New York, and its subsequent revival at the Jerry Orbach Theatre, The Fantasticks remains the longest-running production of any

kind in the history of American theatre.

THE FANTASTICKSCAST

Matt................................................................................................Jason FariaLuisa...........................................................................................Andrea LyonsBellomy.............................................................................LaRon Lee HudsonHucklebee......................................................................................Tobin MossEl Gallo.............................................................................................Ben HartThe Mute...........................................................................................Ella LukeHenry...................................................................................Shaina SchwartzMortimer...................................................................................Alyssa Dumas

ORCHESTRAPiano, Conductor.............................................................................Tim GossHarp.........................................................................................Mason MortonPercussion.............................................................................George ReaganBass.........................................................................................Miles Alhstrom

JASON FARIA

THE FANTASTICKSCAST

ANDREA LYONS

TOBIN MOSS

LARON LEE HUDSON

BEN HART ELLA LUKE

SHAINA SCHWARTZ

ALYSSA DUMAS

Directors......................................................................................Ben Hart & Brandon JamesStage Manager..............................................................................Zachary Ahmad-KahloonAssistant Stage Manager................................................................................Jayna WheelerMusic Director.............................................................................................................Tim GossChoreographers.........................................................................Jason Faria, Alyssa DumasLighting Designer..................................................................................Matthew Brian CostSound Designer,Sound Board Operator............................................Andrew CameronProperties Designer.......................................................................................Elise O'connellCostume Designer...................................................................................................................DWWardrobe Supervisor............................................................................................Molly FennSet Designers...............................................................................Ben Hart & Brandon JamesScenic Artist..............................................................................................................Kate DugasArtistic Directors.....................................................................Ben Hart & Brandon JamesProduction Manager.................................................................Zachary Ahmad-KahloonProduction Assistant.............................................................................................Kate DugasMaster Electrician..............................................................................................Becky MarshElectricians...........................................Jeremy Toussaint, Peter Adams, Patrick Bedell

THE FANTASTICKSPRODUCTION TEAM

WHO'S WHO IN THE CASTNAJEE BROWN (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.) can be described as nothing else than a young entrepreneur. After starting his media company, Mindlezz Thoughtz, in 2011 he has helped provide numerous resources to aspiring artists. In addition to running his own media and arts company, Najee Brown also produced his own music and has danced on every stage from the Apollo to Carnegie Hall. Most recently, Najee wrote and produced his play The Bus Stop, which sold out six times in New York City, and recently featured at the Seacoast Rep last summer. He co-wrote and directed the musical Glimmerings Of Hope, which premiered in New York City and toured Michigan in the spring of 2019. He also directed and choreographed the award-winning musical Henry Box Brown A Musical Journey, in Edinburgh Scotland in the summer or 2019. Brown oversees the “Sol,” series at Seacoast Repertory Theatre, which will focus on presenting Black, Indigenous, and People Of Color (BIPOC) narratives. Stokley and Martin and Nevaeh’s Brother, are his newest plays to premier at Seacoast Repertory Theatre.

JEFF JEAN-PHILLIPPE (Stokley Carmichael)is a versatile artist of New England, a pre-mier Hip Hop educator, Mentor and Artistic Director of his own company, The Expressive Movement. Originally from Montreal, Quebec, Jeff 's passion for the arts accelerated studying from some of North America’s top and original Hip-Hop teach-ers, including: Amari Marshal, Super Dave, Jamar Hopkins, Ian Mackenzie and Brian “Footwork” Green. His training in dance is extensive and includes Hip Hop, Dancehall, Break-dancing, Chicago Footwork, House, Popping, Locking, Waacking, Afro-house, Krump, Salsa, Bachata, Contemporary, and more. Along with being a diverse dancer, Jeff is also an innovator of styles like Temphopical and Kimpada. Jeff has had the honor to teach internationally at masterclasses, workshops, conventions and colleges. Additionally, he also judges at various dance competitions as well. Jeff has had the pleasure to perform for various music videos like Joyner Lucas, commercials for Nerf, musicals for Cape Cod Theatre Company, Barcelona Jazz Dance Festival, and international tours with his company The Expressive Movement. Jeff has also been the leading contestant and winner of battles from Montreal to Boston. No matter the platform, Jeff is passionate about ex-pressing through art and he is so excited to continue to do so in "Stokely and Martin" this year!

LARON LEE HUDSON (Willie Ricks, Brother, Dan, Bellomy) Excited to be apart of the 2021 Company. Off and Off-Off Broadway credits: A Christmas Carol, Lysisarah. Re-gional credits: The Full Monty (Stageworks Fresno), Sister Act, South Pacific, Hands on a Hardbody (Arizona Broadway), Ghost, Mary Poppins, Rock Of Ages, Will Rogers Follies, American Idiot (The Barn Theatre) Westside Story (Chrysalis Stage) Beauty and the Beast (Winnepesauke Playhouse) Ragtime (Seacoast Rep). Nyc Festival Credits: Zuccotti Park (Fringe Festival). Thanks to mom and dad for all their love and support. #staymoisturized #hydrated #findclarity #love

KEONDRAY LUCAS (Cleve Sellers) is a young aspiring actor who hopes to one day be able to act on the Television screen. Keondray is always on the look out, whether it be for acting gigs or just to lend a helping hand to the community.

WHO'S WHO IN THE CASTELIZABETH ANNE HYLTON (Coretta Scott King, Neveah) holds a B.A. in theater from the College of the Holy Cross, and has appeared in numerous productions across Central, MA. Recent credits include WCLOC's productions of Between Riverside and Crazy and Clybourne Park. Elizabeth is passionate about the telling of meaningful stories, and is thrilled to be a part of these two equally moving one act dramas in her debut performance at the Seacoast Rep. Elizabeth believes deeply in the healing power of the arts. Off stage she is a practicing Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and is currently pursuing certification as a Drama Therapist.

SHAINA SCHWARTZ (Offstage Vocalist, Henry) has been performing and teaching throughout New England for 15 years. An attendee of the Boston Youth Moves Level 4 company program at Jeannette Neill Dance Studio, she went on to study music and theater at the Hartt School of Music in Hartford, CT. A former resident artist at the award-winning children's theater, The Peacock Players, and dance captain/co-choreographer with the Boston Tap Company, Shaina is on faculty at Dean College and Emerson College where she is a professor of Dance History and Tap. She has worked as a competition judge and convention instructor at Headliners Dance Competition, taught at Boston University, Boston Conservatory, NDEO, and many prestigious dance studios in MA, NH, CT, NYC and DC. She is the Artistic Director of the New England based educational dance company, Touche Taps, which focuses on comprehensive music, percussive dance and composition training, working with over 100 dancers, ages 7 to 65+, every week (when we’re not in a pandemic!) She will be joining The Rep as a Resident Artist for the entire 2021 season!

JENNIFER SUE ROCKWELL (Diana) is so excited to be a part of the Rep company this year and to have the honor to play Diana in hopes to bring awareness to mental illness. She was last seen on the Rep stage as Mother in "Ragtime" and has been performing for over 20 years across the country; Some credits include Off Broadway: "Hedwig and the angry inch" as Yitzhak, the national tour of "A Christmas Carol" and the Maui academy of performing arts tour of "Stellaluna" as well as their mainstage production of "Next to Normal" as Natalie. Other regional credits include Donna in "Mamma Mia", The Lady of the lake in "Spamalot", Kate monster in "Avenue Q", Sister Mary Patrick" in Sister Act and most recently Sister Robert Anne in "Nunsense" at the Palace theater to name a few. In addition to performing, Jennifer has many years experience in teaching, directing and choreographing. When Jennifer is not performing you can find her with her hunny, gazing at the moon. I hope you are able to leave tonight with an open heart and mind, and that you are driven to become an advocate for Mental health. Be well!

JASON FARIA (Gabe, Matt) is thrilled to be a part of SRT’s 2021 Company! He first came to the SRT in 2015 for Avenue Q (Princeton) and is now the curator of SRT’s Red Light Series! During his time at the Rep, Jason has acted, stage managed, choreographed, designed costumes and is now writing an original musical adaptation of Antoine De Saint Exupery’s The Little Prince which will perform at SRT December 2021! Jason would like to thank The Mad Men, Alyssa and his family for all of their love and support.

WHO'S WHO IN THE CASTALYSSA DUMAS (Natalie, Mortimer) is ecstatic to be a part of the Seacoast Rep’s epic 2021 Rep Company. Previous credits include Sheila (Hair), Yitzhak (Hedwig And The Angry Inch), and Estelle (Mad Haus). She would like to thank the cast and crew for all their hard work and dedication to this production, as well as Jason and The Mad Men for always pushing her to be her very best. Alyssa would also like to thank her family and friends for their unending love and support. And to Ryan/Beb: thank you for running lines with me to the wee hours of the morning in every accent imaginable, I love you.

HARRY PONT (Offstage Vocalist, Henry) is thrilled to be back at the Seacoast Rep for Next to Normal! Notable credits include JD in Heathers, Davey in Newsies, and Ensemble in Evita, all performed on this stage! Harry is a Portsmouth Academy of Performing Arts alum and a current student at the Rhode Island School of Design where he pursues a BFA in film. Infinite love for this show and to the Rep team for creating a safe environment for art to be made! We all need this healing!

TOBIN MOSS (Doctor Fine, Doctor Madden, Anesthesiologist, Hucklebee) is thrilled to be joining the Rep as a 2021 Company Member, after recently appearing on this stage in Ragtime (Henry Ford) and Assassins (John Hinckley). Favorite roles include Rosencrantz (R&G Are Dead), Guildenstern (R&G Are Dead), and Katurian (The Pillowman). This season is for you, Puffy and Paddy.

ELLA LUKE (The Mute) is elated to join the cast of The Fantasticks! Previous SRT Credits include Ragtime, A Christmas Carol, Evita, Billy Elliot, and Annie. Previous productions include Little Girl in Ragtime (Ogunquit Playhouse), Michael in Peter Pan (Schoolhouse Arts Center), and with Patrick Dorow Productions: Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Gypsy, and Home for the Holidays. Ella is currently in seventh grade, studies dance with Andrea Lyons, and voice/piano with Patrick Dorow.

PRODUCTION TEAMDENISE GORDAN (Director) is originally from Boston Mass. Denise has worked in the theatre for over 40 years. Denise graduated from Billerica Memorial High School where her theater career began. Denise directed and wrote her first play in 1972. Denise attended Boston University for theater where she studied acting, directing and playwriting. In college she directed and performed in a number of productions from Macbeth to original one act plays. While attending Boston University Denise also attended Actors Workshop in Boston where she increased her knowledge of the theater. Denise also is a professional comedian/MC and Public Speaker performing across the United States. Denise is no stranger to New Hampshire when it comes to acting, directing or playwriting. Denise spent several years as the director of the Rising Star children’s program and developed the Center Stage program for children 8-10 at the Ogunquit Playhouse. Denise also co-directed Having Our Say. Denise directed “ Big River,” “Our Town” “Little Women'', “Doubt” and other original works by local artists and theaters. Denise is also known outside the New Hampshire area as co-writer, director and executive producer of the play “We are the Dream” a musical about Martin Luther King was performed in NYC at the SVA theatre in 2018. Currently Denise is working on bringing “We Are The Dream” on the road.

BRYAN KNOWLTON (Director) extensive career has spanned from starring on Broadway in the 2006 Revival of "A CHORUS LINE" to appearing in multiple National Tours, Film and TV. He has also earned multiple Helen Hayes Nominations including Outstanding Lead Actor, as well as having collaborated with artists ranging from Meryl Streep, Sally Struthers, Savion Glover to Mario Lopez on "Dancing With Stars." He is an award winning choreographer with credits that include: MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD (Kennedy Center American College Theatre Award "Outstanding Choreography") CHICAGO (New Hampshire Theatre Award "Best Choreographer"), SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER (SALT Award nomination "Best Choreographer"), CURTAINS (BroadwayWorld Award Nomination "Best Choreography"), CABARET (New Hampshire Theatre Award "Best Choreographer" ONSTAGE Theatre Award Nomination "Best Choreography"), GYPSY (New Hampshire Theatre Award nomination "Best Choreographer"), THE ADDAMS FAMILY (New Hampshire Theatre Award nomination "Best Choreographer"), GHOST, HIGH SOCIETY, DAMN YANKEES, THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW, URINETOWN, HAIRSPRAY, RENT, GODSPELL, GUYS AND DOLLS, 9 to 5, CHICAGO, OLIVER! and WEST SIDE STORY. Regional Directing credits include: JOSEPH...DREAMCOAT (Broadwayworld Award Nomination "Best Director" & "Best Musical") A CHORUS LINE (Spotlight Award nomination "Best Musical"), WEST SIDE STORY, THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME, HAIR, MAMMA MIA, LA CAGE aux FOLLES, SMOKEY JOE'S CAFÉ, A CHRISTMAS STORY and A CHRISTMAS CAROL.

BEN HART & BRANDON JAMES (Artistic Directors, Set Designers, Directors) have more than 45 years combined experience in theatrical scenes around the globe. Prolific artists, and partners in life and in art, they have toured internationally, premiered off-Broadway produc-tions, shown their visual arts and sculptures in gallery exhibits, published books, and directed, choreographed and designed dozens of blockbuster, award-winning productions under the moniker of The Mad Men Of Oopsy Daisy, Inc! They have been recognized as master puppet makers and puppeteers, set and costume designers, and are acclaimed for their forward thinking, outside-the-box minded productions and performance art experiences. In addition to the artistic direction of the Seacoast Repertory Theatre, they have been presenting their award winning sci-fi, serial song and dance saga “Mad Haus- A Performance Portmanteau As Conceptualized By The Mad Men Of Oopsy Daisy Inc!” for years to a ferociously loyal fan base and cult following. They are passionately dedicated to the art of storytelling, and strive to serve the mission of mak-ing existence a better place through the shared experience of live theatre arts.

KATE DUGAS (Stage Manager, Scenic Artist, Production Assistant) is excited to be scenic artist and Resident Stage Manager for the Rep this year! Stage management credits include: Wedding Singer, West Side Story, Assassins and A Chorus Line. Scenic artist credits include: The Last Five Years, Roar of the Greasepaint and A Christmas Carol. As Sondheim once said, "I think 'lunch' is one of the funniest words in the world" Sláinte vá!

JAYNA WHEELER (Assistant Stage Manager, Spotlight Operator) is very excited to be coming on as one of the Rep's Resident Stage Managers this season! She has been working with The Rep since 2017 and has done anything from spotlight to shadow puppetry. Favorite SRT credits include Hair, Roar of the Greasepaint (Assistant Stage Manager), Mad Haus, Tick...Tick...Boom!, Honey's Holiday Happy Hour (Stage Manager), Hedwig and the Angry Inch, A Chorus Line (Spotlight Operator). She is so grateful to be a part of this special season and can't wait to share this magical art with everyone! Enjoy the shows!

HADLEY WITHINGTON (Costume Designer, Assistant Stage Manager) is thrilled to be expanding her theatrical skills this year as a Rep Company member. After graduating from The University of New Hampshire with her BA in Musical Theatre, Hadley went on to study at The Stella Adler Studio of Acting in New York City. Past Rep credits include Louise in Always Patsy Cline, Judy Turner in A Chorus Line, Evelyn Nesbit in Ragtime, Linda in The Wedding Singer, and Mary Lane in Reefer Madness.

MATTHEW BRIAN COST (Light Designer) embarked on a career as a theatrical lighting designer while an undergraduate at Colby College in Waterville, Maine. From there he went on to work at Portland Stage Company in Portland, Maine, Seacoast Repertory Theatre, Boston University, The Boston Conservatory at Berklee, and many other institutions. His work has been seen all over New England as well as South Carolina, Mexico, and Macau. Matt lives in East Weymouth, MA with wife Abby, son Simon George, and pitbull Roadie.

ELISE O'CONNELL (Props Designer) is exceedingly excited to be tasked with this new challenge of properties design for the Seacoast Rep's 2021 season, having studied technical theater with a concentration in stage management at Salem State College (now University). She joined the Seacoast Rep staff as a full time employee in October of 2019 as Company Manager and Admin Assistant. In the 2020 season she designed props for the Mainstage productions of The Last Five Years, Roar of the Greasepaint, Always…Patsy Cline, Tick Tick Boom, Nunsense, and Winter Wonderettes, as well as serving as spotlight operator, wardrobe supervisor and crew member for various productions and performances.

TIM GOSS (Music Director) has lived in New Hampshire his entire life. He studied Music Performance at Keene State College and has been playing the piano for longer than many can remember. He also enjoys playing the flute, the ocarina, an occasional guitar or trombone, but never the violin. Touchingly obsessed with musicals, he has accompanied and musical directed dozens of shows all over New England, as well as an award-winning Off-Broadway production of Georgia O'Keeffe Paints Paradise. He also works with Grammy-nominated composer Judy Pancoast and will be heard on her upcoming album Christmas With the Dead. He is currently working on a recital showcasing works by composer Ivor Novello, which he plans to premiere in the UK next year. Credits include: The Producers(Peterborough Players), Speak Easy (Sound Body Culture), Dogfight (Dive In Productions), Rent (Broken Leg Productions), Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (Group Theatre).

PRODUCTION TEAM

MOLLY FENN (Wardrobe Supervisor) is elated to be returning to Seacoast Rep, after previously working as Assistant Wardrobe Supervisor for A Christmas Carol, and as Wardrobe Supervisor for Ragtime. Originally from the Boston area, she is a graduate of the University of New Hampshire with a BA in Acting/Directing, where she also worked as a Technical Assistant and not only got to be Wardrobe Supervisor, but also Props Master (which, for her work on Bright Star, she received a Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival nomination). Other credits include: Acting- Louise Seger (Always, Patsy Cline, Hackmatack Playhouse), Maggie (Dancing at Lughnasa, UNH). Directing- John and Jen (UNH Mask and Dagger), Have a Heart (UNH).

BECKY MARSH (Master Electrician) is very excited to be back at Seacoast Rep for this set of shows! Last season she was the master electrician for Once. Becky is a lighting technician based in Boston. Recently she has been a master electrician for shows with SpeakEasy Stage Company, Lyric Stage Company, Wheelock Family Theatre, Moonbox Productions, White Snake Projects, Jose Mateo Ballet Theatre, Global Arts Live, The New England Conservatory, and Salem State. A NH native, she did her first freelance calls at Seacoast Rep years ago and her first design work at the Winnipesaukee Playhouse.

PRODUCTION TEAM

THE REP'S STAFF

THE REP’S BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Ben Hart & Brandon James ...............................................................................Artistic DirectorsAlyssa Dumas ......................................................Associate Artistic Director, Resident ArtistKristen Dalton .............................................................................Director of Education & YouthBrian Kelly ......................................................................Director of Marketing & DevelopmentMark Michael Adams..............................................................................Front of House ManagerZane Lucier..........................................................................................................Box Office ManagerElise O'Connell...................................................Company Manager, Administrative AssistantZachary Ahmad-Kahloon.............................................................................Production Manager Andrew Cameron.....................................................................................Resident Sound DesignerKate Dugas..........................Resident Stage Manager, Scenic Artist, Production AssistantJayna Wheeler.............................................................................................Resident Stage ManagerJason Faria..................................................................Red Light Series Curator, Resident ArtistNajee Brown...............................................................................Sol Series Curator, Rep CompanyAndrea Lyons, Shaina Schwartz, Bryan Knowlton.........................................Resident ArtistsHolly Dayton, LaRon Lee Hudson, Tobin Moss......................................................Rep CompanyJennifer Sue Rockwell, Hadley Withington

Ella Luke, Sean Verre.................................................................Rep Company Youth ApprenticesBrendan Howard..................................................................................................................Box Office

Executive CommitteeLin Tamulonis - Vice President.....................................................................................................Civic LeaderKatelyn Kwoka Perkins - Treasurer.....................................................................................Pratt & WhitneyJonathan Day - Secretary.....................Managing Partner, Centrus Digital; Executive Director, DMC Seacoast

Board MemberBrenda Richards..............................................................................................................................Civic LeaderSarah Lachance.....................................................................................................Liberty Mutual InsuranceDane Peters......................................................................................................................................Civic LeaderRobin Lurie-Meyerkopf..................................................................................................South Street & VineChristopher Bray............................................ CEO, Complexions Regenerative Skincare & WellnessTucker Oddleifson.............................................................................................Goddard Technologies, IncArthur CarakatsaneSteeve WintleJason Goodrich

Ex OfficioHelen Goransson...........................................................................................................Elbrys Networks, Inc.Gillian M. Aguilar............................................................................................................................Civic Leader

ON STAGE - Seacoast Repertory Theatre...Cast Member $100-$199 Ann & Ron Ablowich Don & Abbie-Jane...

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