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Director—David McCamishMusic Director—Susan Barone Chrzanowski
Choreographer—Kate LoughlinAssistant Director—Kate Saxton
Production Manager—Candice Chirgotis
LoomisChaffeeDepartment of Theater & Dance
Front cover poster design by Charlotte Marcil ’18Back cover poster designs by BenBen Singhasaneh ’18, Eli Gould ’18, Julia Thompson ’18, and Isaac Lohnes ’18
Photography by Rachel M. EngelkeSet design sketch by Karen Sparks Mellon
Book by Richard Morris and Dick ScanlanNew Music by Jeanine TesoriNew Lyrics by Dick Scanlan
Original Story and Screenplay by Richard Morris
for the Universal Pictures Film
Thoroughly Modern Millie
Thoroughly Modern Millie is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).
All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.www.MTIShows.com
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• Please turn off all cellphones, smartphones, and other personal electronic devices, and refrain from using them during the performance. • Due to contractual agreements with the publisher, absolutely NO audio or video recordings of this show are permitted. Still photos are allowed.• Patrons who have forgotten or misplaced their tickets will be placed on the Wait List.• Please unwrap all cough drops before the show. Otherwise, no food or drink (except water) allowed in the auditorium.• The running time of the first half is 70 minutes; the running time of the second half is 50 minutes. There is one ten-minute intermission.
• Christine Coyle for the skill and care with which she writes about our students and our shows, and most especially for sharing with her readers online and in print her keen insights into our work.• Ralph Branco, and the Housekeeping staff for taking such good care of our little red barn throughout the school year.• Julia Knight, Joanna Harvey, and Marie Tanuis: Our vendors, professional carpenters, and other part-timers much appreciate your efforts.• All of the vocal coaches and instrumental teachers in the Music Department for nurturing the talents of the student singers and musicians performing for you.• Sarah Weinstein for bringing our NEO ticket reservations system for faculty and staff into the 21st century, and for being consistently creative, generously flexible, and such a joy to work with.• Patty Cousins and her graphic design students for our five eye-catching posters.• The Art Department, and most particularly Mark Zunino, for allowing our sound designer to reside in the Visiting Artist’s studio apartment during our tech rehearsals.• The LCPA, Mrs. Scanlon, Mrs. Mossberg, Lisa Ross, and Lisa Butterfield for making the special pre-matinee Theater luncheon possible.• Steven Carignan, Lance Hall, and others too numerous to name from the Physical Plant who bring their skills and talents to maintaining the Norris Ely Orchard Theater.• Rich Esposito, Dan Corjulo and Andris Briga for their assistance in getting the NEO an upgraded audio mixer and a replacement lighting console. Goodbye floppy disc, we miss you. And an extra thank you to Andris for his spirit of collaboration, particularly with the projections.• Anna Vdovenko for her amazing photography, and for her generosity.• Rachel Engelke, who despite the fact that she has a gigantic and complex department to attend to, still manages to find the time, interest, and energy to come work beside us in the dark auditorium as we “tech” the lighting, sound, and costumes for the show … and then magically produces (through a potent combination of determination, devotion, and infinite patience) this beautiful playbill. Show, after show, after show.• Finally, to the many parents and families whose support of our work makes it all that much more rewarding: THANK YOU!
Gratitudes
Courtesies
Safeties• For the safety of the actors, please no flash photography of any kind.• The exits are located to the right of the audience and through the lobby.• Restrooms for patrons are located in the red brick building next to the NEO.• By direction of the Fire Marshal of the Town of Windsor, patrons may not occupy the aisles or the lobby during the show.
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Underneath Thoroughly Modern Millie (TMM), beyond the classic American musical love story, is a tale of self-discovery and coming of age. The idea of facing life’s challenges and becoming one’s best self permeate TMM. Also can be found is the concept that one does not have to give up who they are to embrace change and differences in others. The characters in TMM go on journeys encountering those who may think, look, or act differently. The characters find common ground, acceptance, and make their community stronger because of myriad characters. I believe this theme fits our school, and the times, quite well. Theatre often gives us insight about human nature and helps foster our ability to communicate more honestly, which always betters the world around us. Theatre can also provide laughs and smiles and, dare I say, “entertainment.” I am truly proud of this cast and crew who showed impressive growth in their ability to communicate with each other and the production team throughout the rehearsal process. I am always thrilled at the community that live theatre can produce. I hope you find something new in seeing Thoroughly Modern Millie.
As always, thank you for coming and enjoy the show! David McCamish, Director
Director's Note
The New Colossus
Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame,With conquering limbs astride from land to land;Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall standA mighty woman with a torch, whose flameIs the imprisoned lightning, and her nameMother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand
Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes commandThe air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.
“Keep ancient lands, your storied pomp!” cries sheWith silent lips. “Give me your tired, your poor,Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!”
-Emma Lazarus (1849-1887)
“The winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Thoroughly Modern Millie was the 2002 season’s most awarded new show on Broadway! Based on the 1967 Academy Award-winning film, Thoroughly Modern Millie takes you back to the height of the Jazz Age in New York City, when “moderns” were bobbing their hair, raising their hemlines, entering the workforce and rewriting the rules of love. This high-spirited musical romp is a delightful valentine to the long-standing spirit of New York City and the people who seek to discover themselves there. “ ~ Music Theatre International
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Simone Afriyie ’17 Mathilde/Speed TappistJacy Case ’18 Miss FlanneryCallista DeGraw ’18 Miss Dorothy Parker/Speed TappistAbby Forrester ’18 Daphne/Speed TappistSarah Gyurina ’18 Cora/Speed TappistMaddy Hoffman ’19 MamaMacon Jeffreys ’18 Policeman/Dexter/MuzzkateerPreethi Kannan ’17 RuthLogan Katz ’18 George Gershwin/MuzzkateerMegan Lam ’20 Jia Sheng/PolicemanClaire Lavalley ’18 Alice/Speed TappistBenjamin Lawrence ’20 Rodney/Letch/MuzzkateerSilvia Mayo ’19 MuzzkateerMakayla McPherson ’20 RitaRyan Natcharian ’19 Mr. Trevor GraydonBrendan Nelson ’17 Mugger/Kenneth/Muzzkateer/The New StenogMaia Paige ’19 Lucille/Speed TappistCameron Purdy ’18 Millie DillmountMelissa Scanlon ’19 Ethel Peas/Speed TappistBlaine Stevens ’18 Gloria/Speed TappistKalina Szemraj ’19 Mrs. MeersOlivia Thompson ’18 Miss Dorothy BrownKimmy Tufton ’19 Muzzy Van HossmereAngela Wang ’20 Mei RanKelly White ’17 Pearl Lady/Speed TappistNoah Yoon ’18 Jimmy Smith
Music Captains: Sarah Gyurina ’18 and Noah Yoon ’18Dance Captains: Simone Afriyie ’17, Claire Lavalley ’18, and Melissa Scanlon ’19
The Cast
An Important Authorial Note on the Character of Mrs. Meers:
“The actress portraying Mrs. Meers should be encouraged to embrace the offensiveness of her politically incorrect rendering of Asian, confident in the knowledge that, when contrasted with the actual Asian characters we will meet, her depiction of a hateful stereotype will be busted as inauthentic and absurd.”
~Richard Morris and Dick Scanlan, Book writers of Thoroughly Modern Millie
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The Technical Crew
The Production TeamLisa Bebey Costume DesignerTate R. Burmeister Lighting DesignerCandice Chirgotis Production ManagerSusan Barone Chrzanowski Music Director/Pit ConductorRachel M. Engelke Playbill EditorSam Higgins Assistant Technical Director/Sound Crew SupervisorKen Jones Technical DirectorKate Loughlin ChoreographerDavid McCamish DirectorKaren Sparks Mellon Set DesignerAlexandra Nattrass Properties Designer/Scenic ArtistKyle Olmstead Sound DesignerKate Saxton Assistant DirectorSydney Steward ’17 Student Assistant Director
For this Production:Charley DeMars Scenery ConstructionAlec Drohan Scenery ConstructionSarah Keller Scenic Artist & Props Assistant Kacey Skurja Charge Scenic Artist
Rishi Basu ’19 Technician/Sound CrewJet Elbualy ’18 Assistant to the Costume DesignerMohana Ghosh ’20 Technician/Sound CrewEmma Goldfarb ’20 Assistant Production ManagerJimmy Hu ’19 Technician/Sound CrewJulianna Lee ’19 TechnicianChristopher Lucero ’19 Technician/Lighting CrewAdam McDonagh ’20 Technician/Lighting CrewEvan McDonagh ’17 Technician/Lighting Crew ChiefSherly Quezada ’19 Technician/Sound CrewRamal Rauf ’17 Stage ManagerMarahyah Richardson ’19 Assistant Stage ManagerCarolyn Riley ’18 Technician/Lighting CrewAlexa Valadez ’20 Technician/Lighting CrewMark Valadez ’19 Technician/Sound CrewAlly Velasquez ’20 Technician/Stage Crew
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New York City, 1922Act I
OvertureScene 1: Times Square “Not for the Life of Me” “Thoroughly Modern Millie”Scene 2: The Hotel Priscilla lobby “Not for the Life of Me” (Reprise) “How the Other Half Lives” Scene 3: Basement of the Priscilla “Not for the Life of Me” (Reprise)Scene 4: Sincere Trust Insurance Company, 20th floor “The Speed Test”Scene 5: 12th floor of the Priscilla “They Don’t Know”Scene 6: Night, a New York City streetScene 7: A New York City speakeasy “The Nutty Cracker Suite”Scene 8: A jail “What Do I Need With Love?”Scene 9: Morning, a New York City streetScene 10: 12th Floor of the PriscillaScene 11: Muzzy Van Hossmere’s penthouse “Only in New York” “Jimmy”Scene 12: 12th floor of the Priscilla
10 minute intermission
Act II
Entr’acteScene 1: Sincere Trust Insurance Company, 20th floor “Forget About the Boy” “Ah! Sweet Mystery of Life/I’m Falling in Love with Someone”Scene 2: The window ledge “I Turned the Corner” “Falling in Love” (Reprise)Scene 3: 12th floor of the PriscillaScene 4: Cafe Society “Long As I’m Here With You”Scene 5: Muzzy’s dressing room “Gimme Gimme”Scene 6: Cafe SocietyScene 7: The Hotel Priscilla lobbyScene 8: Basement of the Priscilla “The Speed Test” (Reprise) “Ah! Sweet Mystery” (Reprise)Finale
Musical Numbers
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Orchestra
Matt Adler ’18 ViolinSusan Barone Chrzanowski ConductorDeborah Feifer ’17 Trombone IIMolly Forrester ’19 ClarinetEmma Goldfarb ’20 GuitarMelanie Guerin (guest) Keyboard IJim Kleiner (music lesson faculty) Reed IRoy Lam ’20 CelloJulianna Lee ’19 Double BassLeroy Loomer (music lesson faculty) Trombone IRosie Park ’18 ViolinJim Rickevicius (music lesson faculty) Guitar/BanjoPete Roe (music lesson faculty) Trumpet IRiley Smith ’18 Trumpet IIElliot Wallace (music lesson faculty) Drums/PercussionJames Wang ’19 CelloGloria Yi ’17 Violin
The pit orchestra is comprised of Loomis Chaffee students, faculty and lesson instructors, as well as guest professional musicians. Due to space considerations in the cozy Orchard Theater, however, the orchestra
actually sits behind the stage and actors rather than down in front of the house, as is the customary location for a
“pit” orchestra. The wonderful music you are
hearing this eveningis, indeed, live!
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The CastSimone Afriyie ’17 (Mathilde/Speed Tappist) After being in shows such as Seussical, Aladdin, Charlie Brown, and many more, Simone is thrilled to be back in the theatre and part of this production. Simone had an amazing time rehearsing with everyone involved with the musical. Shout out to her fellow seniors and a special shout out to Kelly for auditioning with me #BetterLateThanNever.
Jacy Case ’18 (Miss Flannery) Jacy is excited to be part of an amazing cast this year at the NEO! She can’t wait to perform as the surly and cross head stenographer in this hilarious musical, though she is a bit worried that she was typecast :) Jacy also enjoys playing varsity soccer and eating ice cream. A huge THANK YOU to all her family, friends, cast, crew and directors! Shout out to Ms. Kate for teaching her to tap!
Callista DeGraw ’18 (Miss Dorothy Parker/Speed Tappist) This is Callista’s fourth show in the NEO, and her second musical after appearing as Frau Blucher in last winter’s Young Frankenstein. She is eager to join the glitz and glam of the roaring 20s, especially after being a part of the harsh world of The Crucible. Shoutout to the group chat girls, her best friend, and all of her supportive family and friends.
Abby Forrester ’18 (Daphne/Speed Tappist) Abby is thrilled to perform in her third NEO production, having appeared in Young Frankenstein and The Crucible. Her hobbies include putting soy sauce on her white shirts and figure skating. Shout out to the one and only Jacy Case and the best person to ever walk the earth, Kelly #Altostrong. Abby also wants to thank the whole cast and crew! Enjoy our show!!!!!
Sarah Gyurina ’18 (Cora/Speed Tappist) In her fourth production at the NEO, Sarah is thrilled to take on more tap dancing and harmonies than is probably necessary. Her recent credits include Abigail Williams in The Crucible and Roxanne in Cyrano. In her free time Sarah likes to write, talk about current events, choreograph dances, and take naps. Cheers and thanks to everyone involved with the show!
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Maddy Hoffman ’19 (Mama) Maddy is thoroughly thrilled to be in her first NEO show! For the past two years, she has been cast in the ensemble of West Hartford SAF’s productions of Beauty and the Beast and West Side Story. Last summer she was also the Ellen Jeanne Goldfarb Memorial Trust Intern in Theater Education. Favorite credits include The Wizard of Oz (Wicked Witch) and Willy Wonka Jr. (Mrs. Buckett).
Macon Jeffreys ’18 (Policeman/Dexter/Muzzkateer) This is Macon’s sixth show in the NEO. After playing the stern, angry Reverend Parris in the fall production of The Crucible, he is excited to play a light-hearted role this time around. Macon would like to give a shoutout and a good riddance to the bowling sucks squad as well as a thank you to all the rest of his cast and crew. He hopes you enjoy the show!
Preethi Kannan ’17 (Ruth) Preethi cannot believe that this is her eighth and final show. From her debut in Setzuan to the end of her journey in New York, the past four years have been a gift. Preethi would like to thank all the directors and cast who have shaped her into the person she is today. Special shoutouts to the family dinner crew + those losers whom she crushed at bowling. Enjoy the most happening show in town!
Logan Katz ’18 (George Gershwin/Muzzkateer) This is Logan’s 2nd show in the NEO. He’d like to thank his parents for pushing him to achieve his goals in the performing arts. Logan would also like to give Mr. Sainz a shout out for being an outstanding person. Outside of the NEO, you can usually find Logan singing, songwriting, and beatboxing. He is proud of all the work that the cast has put into this amazing show!
Megan Lam ’20 (Jia Sheng/Policeman) The scrub of the musical, Megan is making her debut not only in the NEO but also in her first ever theatrical production. During rehearsals she likes to wear a different pair of shoes everyday, stare at people who understand tap dancing, and drink an excessive amount of water. She is beyond excited to be a part of 1922 NYC, and she hopes you enjoy her breaking the fourth wall!
Claire Lavalley ’18 (Alice/Speed Tappist) Although she is no stranger to performing on the NEO stage, Claire is excited to be participating in her first musical. She has been dancing since she was three years old and, with lots of encouragement, she decided to explore the world of acting. She likes to spend her free time with her friends watching scary movies and making a scene in the dining hall. Enjoy the show!
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Benjamin Lawrence ’20 (Rodney/Letch/Muzzkateer) Over the last few months, Benjamin enjoyed adding his character’s two cents to the world built around him. He is excited to continue his theater career with his NEO debut, and he looks forward to spending more time in the NEO next year. Shout out to the cast, crew, and directors. He hopes you enjoy the show. #KellysFabOutfit #maconsbeautyboxers
Silvia Mayo ’19 (Muzzkateer) Silvia is happy to be back for her fourth production at the NEO in a show where she’s not constantly quivering and terrified! She’d like to thank everyone for dealing with her harmonizing during warm-up, clapping spontaneously, and breaking out into song (what else is new). Special thanks to those people in the cast and crew. You know who you are.
Makayla McPherson ’20 (Rita) Makayla is thrilled to make her NEO debut this winter. She has really enjoyed the sense of community and camaraderie she found in the NEO, and she had a lot of fun expressing herself creatively. Outside of acting, Makayla enjoys singing and playing the violin and clarinet. She would like to thank her family for always supporting her acting and musical pursuits!
Ryan Natcharian ’19 (Mr. Trevor Graydon) RYAN TAKES TO THE NEO STAGE FOR THE–OH IT’S ON CAPS LOCK? Okay, is that better? Good. ...for the 3rd time, as Mr. Trevor Graydon, who speaks boldly and unapologetically. Ryan doesn’t do that regularly. RYAN WOULD LIKE TO THANK–IT’S DOING IT AGAIN? YEAH, THAT’S REALLY WEIRD. BETTER? NO? How about now? Great.
Brendan Nelson ’17 (Mugger/Kenneth/Muzzkateer/The New Stenog) Brendan is honored to perform in his 6th and final show in the NEO, having previously appeared in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Oklahoma!, Cyrano, Young Frankenstein , and The Crucible. He’s thankful for everything he’s learned and for all of the wonderful experiences he’s had at the NEO. Skål
Maia Paige ’19 (Lucille/Speed Tappist) Maia, from Germantown, Tennessee, is excited to make her NEO debut! Between tap dances and endless laughs, she has found many new friends during the rehearsals of this production. Maia would like to thank her fellow cast members and the crew, as well as her family, friends, and Richmond fam. She hopes you enjoy the show!
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Cameron Purdy ’18 (Millie Dillmount) Cameron is delighted to return to the NEO for her fourth show. After taking a dark turn as Susanna Walcott in The Crucible, she is keen on the comedy of Millie. Other interests include struggling through junior year, leading MRev w/ Noah & Sam, and dancing to 07-12 pop hits with Sarah, Jacy & Amaiya. She would like to thank the NEO family and everyone who has supported her.
Melissa Scanlon ’19 (Ethel Peas/Speed Tappist) Melissa has enjoyed being a part of the NEO family since her first performance in Young Frankenstein as a freshman, and she is excited to help create this fast-paced but light-hearted story for you. A lover of ballet, she is happy to take to the stage in any way. Melissa is very grateful to all the friends and family members supporting her and to the entire cast and crew.
Blaine Stevens ’18 (Gloria/Speed Tappist) Blaine is psyched to be back in the NEO for round two of the Winter Musical! Perhaps you saw her as Elizabeth in Young Frankenstein, but if not, that’s cool, too. When not on stage, Blaine enjoys tennis and texting in all caps to the NEO groupchat. Thanks to her family, James, and her best friends for keeping her sane through junior year. Enjoy the show!
Kalina “Kiki” Szemraj ’19 (Mrs. Meers) Kiki is thrilled to be acting in the NEO this winter! After performing in Cyrano, Young Frankenstein, and The Crucible, she is ecstatic to try something new with Thoroughly Modern Millie! Additionally, she wishes to give a big thank you to the directors, cast, crew, and her family for being so supportive throughout the entire rehearsal process!
Olivia Thompson ’18 (Miss Dorothy Brown) Olivia is so happy to be a part of her 6th NEO show! Outside of the NEO Olivia likes to take part in community service, advocate for women’s rights, dance, and create art. She would like to thank Mr. McCamish and Ms. Chirgotis for this wonderful opportunity, and the cast and crew for being a strong and supportive family. Thank you for coming and enjoy the show!
Kimmy Tufton ’19 (Muzzy Van Hossmere) Kimmy is excited to make the drastic jump from Elizabeth Proctor in The Crucible to Muzzy in Millie! This is her second show in the NEO, and she has loved every second spent here. In addition, Kimmy loves the friends she has made, and she would like to thank them along with the directors and crew for all the encouragement and support she has received!
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Angela Wang ’20 (Mei Ran) Angela is thrilled to make her NEO debut this winter. She is excited to explore her role as a girl falling desperately in love in a foreign nation. Angela hopes everyone enjoys this musical, and she wants to thank the people who have helped her and supported her as well as the cast and crew. She also likes playing zither, a traditional Chinese musical instrument.
Kelly White ’17 (Pearl Lady/Speed Tappist) Kelly is stoked to be a part of her first NEO show! She has had a great time joining the NEO for her senior year #BetterLateThanNever. Huge thanks to the whole cast and crew. She would like to send some love to the Bowling Sucks squad and the NEO gals group chat. Shoutout to her fellow new senior NEO member, Simone, and her soul sister, Abby #AltoStrong.
Noah Yoon ’18 (Jimmy Smith) Noah triumphantly returns to the stage in his biggest role at Loomis. Outside of Loomis, he played Marcellus in The Music Man, Daddy Warbucks in Annie, and Chip Tolentino in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. He would like to thank his directors for working so hard and his family for supporting him in everything. Chops!
Our best wishes to these talented thespians in the Class of 2017, who cumulatively have performed in or tech’ed a total of 30 mainstage productions at the NEO—
beginning with The Good Person of Setzuan, as freshmen in the fall of 2013:Ramal (5), Sydney (5), Kelly (1), Preethi (all 8!),
Simone (1), Brendan (6), and Evan (4) (not pictured).Break a leg in college (and beyond!), and be sure to come back
and visit your beloved Little Red Barn on the Island.
SENIORS
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Rishi Basu ’19 (Technician/Sound Crew) For his 4th major performance, Rishi is asking the deep questions we’ve been pondering. Who is this Rishi Basu? While he could talk about his position as head of sound or his nerdiness, he’s going philosophical now. Is the sound booth behind the audience, or part of it? What is purpose? What’s a porpoise? The most important question: who is this Rishi? A pretty cool guy.
Jet Elbualy ’18 (Assistant to the Costume Designer) Swamp native Jet is excited to abuse power in what may or may not be their 7th production at the NEO. Jet has worked as a lighting and costume tech to prepare themself for their application for the FBI. Outside of the NEO, Jet can be found practicing the art of pumpkin decorating, reading banned books, and learning how to play the harmonica. Have fun, I guess?
Mohana Ghosh ’20 (Technician/Sound Crew) Mohana is happy to be back for Thoroughly Modern Millie, her second show in the NEO. Despite being known back in Chicago for her terrible memory, childish personality, and quietness, she was somehow chosen as stage manager in middle school. At Loomis, she is eager to play her part as a sound techie, while aspiring to write a little something for the theater someday.
Emma Goldfarb ’20 (Assistant Production Manager) After appearing in The Crucible as Rebecca Nurse, Emma once again could not resist the call of the NEO and jumped at the opportunity to assist Ms. Chirgotis on the production side. In addition to her theatrical pursuits, Emma plays drums and guitar in the Guitar Ensemble. If you listen closely, you might hear her strumming away in the orchestra during this show...
Jimmy Hu ’19 (Technician/Sound Crew) This is Jimmy’s second show in the NEO since he started this year with The Crucible. Jimmy will be returning to work with the sound crew. Outside of the NEO, Jimmy can be usually found in the Shimkus Gym, where he wrestles with his teammates. He is very excited about this show. He hopes that all the actors have good performances and that the audience enjoys it!
The Technical Crew
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Julianna Lee ’19 (Technician) Hoping that she will not get concussed like last year, Julianna is enjoying working on her first musical. When she isn’t tripping over her own feet in the NEO, you can find her feeding goats or trying to move a bass into a practice room. You can currently find her happily standing in the tiny pit with a giant violin for the two-hour-long show instead of sitting in the light booth.
Christopher Lucero ’19 (Technician/Lighting Crew) Born and raised in the Bronx, this kid has a lot to prove in the Constitution State. Whenever he isn’t trying to ruin his roommate’s life or sleeping at his cabin called Longman, Chris is a decent guy who works diligently for NO PAY. Outside of the NEO he “tries” to play squash and loves camping with the Canadian (Pete).
Adam McDonagh ’20 (Technician/Lighting Crew) A day student from Suffield, Connecticut, Adam is excited for his second production in the NEO, after this fall’s The Crucible. Following in big brother Evan’s footsteps, Adam hopes to continue in the NEO for many years to come. He is currently enjoying his second season of Robotics. Adam’s main hobby is reading; he can spend hours devouring books!
Evan McDonagh ’17 (Technician/Lighting Crew Chief) It’s a new year, but for Evan McDonagh, some things never change. Whether he’s building away for the play or lording over his fellow techies, Evan is happy to haunt the NEO for a second year. When not in the NEO, Evan, with a hockey mask and machete, will be skulking around a campground…Of course, he might just be taking a hike…
Sherly Quezada ’19 (Technician/Sound Crew) Whatever shall she do with a 420 character limit? Now it’s 322. Whoops, down to 301. Anyway, Sherly enjoys eating, breathing, and existing. When not contemplating how to explain to friends that time doesn’t really exist, she tries to make the stage look cool. With 116 characters left she will leave you with a fun fact: banging your head against a wall burns 150 calories /hr.
Ramal Rauf ’17 (Stage Manager) Ramal is extraordinarily grateful to have had the opportunity to work on Oklahoma!, Cyrano, Young Frankenstein, The Crucible, and Thoroughly Modern Millie. She began as a member of the amazing light crew, and ends as stage manager. She would like to profusely thank all of the NEO faculty, cast, and crew for embracing her from the moment she stepped into the NEO.
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Marahyah “Richie” Richardson ’19 (Assistant Stage Manager) After playing Tituba in The Crucible, Richie moves backstage as the ASM of Millie. There’s no such thing as too much of a good thing, unless you’re talking about the NEO. With both rehearsals and tech the barn has become Richie’s home away from the dorm. Of course by “home,” she means prison. Richie hasn’t been able to leave. Please help.
Carolyn Riley ’18 (Technician/Lighting Crew) A day student from Simsbury, Connecticut, Carolyn has finally joined the tech crew and is thrilled, as she has always been a fan of musicals. Her other pursuits include co-heading the LCSC and spending most of her free time in the spring with the backcountry program. Follow the folk music through the woods to find her. She hopes you enjoy the show!
Alexa Valadez ’20 (Technician/Lighting Crew) As a younger sibling trying to find new hobbies, Alexa follows in her brother’s footsteps. If you look for her she is constantly spending every moment she can in the NEO. Alexa enjoys spending her free time watching rehearsals to see how everything plays out. She prays for our New England weather to do its job and cancel riding practice.
Mark Valadez ’19 (Technician/Sound Crew) Mark, a passionate and skillful lighting magician, has encountered a change of paths, taking him to the dark side: the soundboard. If you’d like to meet him, look on the cross country trails, at a debate podium, or in the library. You might also find him just walking around, but don’t worry if you can’t find him, he’ll find you. Now ladies and gentlemen, welcome to New York!
Ally Velasquez ’20 (Technician/Stage Crew) Although she lives only 15 minutes away, Ally is a boarder who is very excited to work on her first production at the NEO! During the fall and spring she can be found attempting to be athletic by struggling to learn new sports. You can also usually run into her at the SNUG or in Carter. In her free time Ally likes to complain about her classes while watching a lot of Netflix.
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Lisa Bebey (Costume Designer) Lisa has worked with the student crews designing and building costumes for the past 15 years at Loomis Chaffee. She was the Costume Shop Manager at Hartford Stage for 14 years, and has also built costumes for the Long Wharf Theatre, Goodspeed Opera, Theaterworks and the Yale Repertory Theatre. Lisa recently added the role of entrepreneur to her resume by opening her online shop, FairyGodmother4Hire.com, featuring custom dress up costumes for children.
Tate R. Burmeister (Lighting Designer) Tate has worked as a designer throughout Connecticut, Minnesota, California, and New York and is enjoying her eighth season as the lighting designer at the NEO. In addition to working as a designer, Tate is the Technical Director for the Ivoryton Playhouse and Production Manager for Bated Breath Theatre Company. In Connecticut, she has designed for Playhouse on Park, Ivoryton Playhouse, Seven Angels Theatre, Hartford Stage Education
Department, Oddfellows Playhouse, Albano Ballet, and others, as well as various local schools. Favorite lighting design credits include Metamorphoses (Loomis Chaffee), Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat (Ivoryton Playhouse), Nuevo California, The Threepenny Opera (Oddfellows), and A Chorus Line (Merced, CA).
Candice Chirgotis (Production Manager) Candice became Head of the Theater & Dance Department in 2013 after a decade of working here as a part-time teacher and as the production manager for the NEO. In her previous life, she was an adjunct professor of Dramatic Arts at UConn, and before that she was the Department Chair of Theater Design & Production at the Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts. For 16 seasons Candice was—for over 100 professional theater productions—the
Production Manager at Hartford Stage. She earned her master’s degree in theater at the University of Illinois. Candice considers herself incredibly fortunate to get to teach, learn, and make plays with these hardworking, talented and fun Loomis Chaffee student technicians and performers. She would like to take this opportunity to sincerely express how much she admires, appreciates, and is grateful for such creative, devoted, and generous professional theater collaborators and faculty colleagues.
Susan Barone Chrzanowski (Music Director/Pit Conductor) Thoroughly Modern Millie marks Sue’s 19th NEO winter musical and 22nd NEO production overall. Sue praises this year’s cast, crew, and pit orchestra for creating this captivating production of Thoroughly Modern Millie. At Loomis Chaffee, Sue serves as Music Department Chair and Choral/Vocal Director; in addition, Sue holds the Thomas Benedict Carter Instructorship in Music. An active guest clinician, Sue specializes in healthy
The Production Team
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vocal production and the changing voice. In the voice studio, on the stage, and in the choral ensemble, Sue emphasizes a whole person, mindful approach to singing and performing. Sue hopes you enjoy the live music emanating from the NEO backstage pit (“bands are getting jazzier!”) and the jazz age vocals soaring from the NEO stage —she certainly does! So. . . “beat the drums, ‘cause here comes Thoroughly Modern Millie now.”
Rachel M. Engelke (Playbill Editor) In her 17th year on the Island, Rachel is Chair of the History, Philosophy, Religious Studies & Social Science Department, a resident in Palmer Hall, and she serves as the adviser to Model UN and the Loomis Chaffee World Bulletin. A long-time friend of the NEO Theater, Rachel made her assistant directing debut in 2011 with The Boy Friend, while Thoroughly Modern Millie is Rachel’s 27th production as playbill editor. She would like to express her
sincere appreciation to everyone in the cast and crew for their cooperation and good humor as she hounded them for bios, photos, endless lists, and other minutiae.
Sam Higgins (Assistant Technical Director/Sound Crew Supervisor) Sam spent eight years as a theatrical jack-of-all-trades for high school and college productions. His expertise is mostly in scenery construction, but he has worked at various times and locales as a lighting technician, sound board operator, run crew, and more. Favorite credits include The Adding Machine, The Glass Menagerie, What the Butler Saw and A Bright Room Called Day at University of Rochester, Hairspray at Lehman College, and She Loves Me at Croton-Harmon High School.
This is Sam’s first year at Loomis Chaffee and his second production at the NEO. In addition to theatrical work, Sam is a member of the Math Department and serves as a dorm affiliate in Harman Hall. He would like to thank everyone involved for allowing him to collaborate with the theatre program, and he is very proud of this show.
Ken Jones (Technical Director) Ken is delighted to be back for his 10th consecutive show and 5th musical at the NEO Theater. Ken has directed and taught theater craft in the region since 2003, for over 75 productions with Canton Middle and High Schools, Avon High School, Avon Summer Theatre, Theatre Guild of Simsbury, and The Loomis Chaffee NEO Theater. He is also Vice President of Theater Operations and Lead Production Designer for Farmington Valley Stage Company in Canton, in its fifth season. In his set notes, Ken writes: “The set design for
this show is built up of ‘flat’ layers. We used a construction technique that mimicked this concept, allowing the crew to paint each element separately, then assemble the pieces into the desired patterns. An interesting challenge was the five functional doors. This was accomplished using three different methods to make them appear/disappear - two on overhead tracks, two swinging in on posts, and one free-standing, rolling unit. The director then added a human element, using performers as ‘artistic bracing’ while the doors were in use.”
Kate Loughlin (Choreographer) Kate has been the dance teacher and choreographer at Loomis Chaffee since 2009. She began her dance life as an Irish Step Dancer at age three, and never looked back. Trained in ballet, modern, jazz, tap, and choreography, Kate credits her teachers and mentors with leading her to the fulfilling career she loves. Kate earned her BA in Dance graduated Cum Laude by Connecticut College in 1998. She taught at Choate Rosemary Hall for ten years before
coming to Loomis Chaffee to work with the most talented, dedicated and hard working students in the world. There is a saying, “Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life,” and Kate gets to live that every day. The dancers and actors at LC give Kate joy, purpose, inspiration, and happiness, and she counts herself as one of the luckiest people in the world because of these students. Thank you for coming out to support our cast and crew, and please enjoy the show!
David McCamish (Director) David is thrilled to direct Thoroughly Modern Millie, his tenth show at Loomis. A Bluegrass native, David has performed and directed across the United States and throughout Connecticut. He was a core faculty member at the Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts and an adjunct professor at the University of Hartford’s Hartt School. In addition to his work at Loomis Chaffee, recent directing credits include Vanities and Is There Life After High
School (Hartt), All’s Well That Ends Well (Capital Classics), and Servant of Two Masters (GHAA), as well as teaching at the Long Wharf Theater, Hartford Performs, CREC, and Manhattan Edge. David has provided fight choreography for Oddfellows Playhouse, Classical Magnet, GHAA, and for Hartford Stage’s Breakdancing Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, Romeo & Juliet, and Hamlet. Regionally, he taught Stage Combat at the Center for Creative Youth at Wesleyan University. David played Henry in the national tour of The Fantasticks, and has been seen in New York City at Lucille Lortel, 45th Street Playhouse, New Perspectives, @here, Manhattan Edge, Collective Unconscious, The Sandy Meisner Theatre, 23rd Street Studio, and with Shakespeare’s Sister Company. Locally, David was Bottom in ArtFarm’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and has performed with Bated Breath Theatre Company, Capital Classics, Oddfellows Playhouse, and HartBeat Ensemble. In 2015, David attended the International Festival Fringe in Scotland with the aspiration of taking Loomis students to perform there in the future.
Karen Sparks Mellon (Set Designer) Sparks has been a set designer and scenic artist in the Hartford/New Haven area since 1979. This is her 20th season, and 39th production, as Loomis Chaffee’s set designer. Sparks has designed scenery for, among others, Amherst College, the Connecticut Commission on the Arts, CPTV, Lincoln Theatre, the New England Actors Theatre, the Portland Stage Company, Trinity College, and the University of Hartford. As a scenic artist, Sparks worked for the
Hartford Stage Company and was a freelance painter for the Long Wharf Theatre and the Goodspeed Opera House. Other projects include backdrop design for the last G. Fox Christmas windows in downtown Hartford, interior painting for the first Banana Republic in New York City, and whitewashing the inside of a barn for the movie Funny Farm. She is currently a faculty member at The Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts, where she was named Artist-Instructor of the Year in May 2008.18
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Alexandra Nattrass (Properties Designer/Scenic Artist) Alex is excited to be working on her fourth production at Loomis. When she is not making props, she freelances as a costumer in Connecticut and New York. Previous theatrical jobs include Broadway, Off-Broadway, and many regional theaters, such as Hartford Stage and the Long Wharf Theater. Alex spent her summer working at the International Arts & Ideas Festival in New Haven and at the New Britain Museum of American Art
in the collections department. She is an alumnus of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts and The Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts. Alex was voted Class Clown and Class Scientist in eighth grade.
Kyle Olmstead (Sound Designer) Kyle is an active audio engineer, bassist, and educator. He teaches more than a dozen private bass students each week, and performs in groups that include the Cape Ann Symphony and the Gordon Symphony Orchestra. As an audio engineer, Kyle works as a sound designer and production sound engineer for theaters throughout New England. Recently, Kyle has designed sound for productions by Central Square Theater, The Barnstormers Theatre, Curry
College, The Loomis Chaffee School, The Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts, and Hartford Children’s Theatre. He has also worked as an audio engineer and production sound engineer for the Hartford Stage. Previously, he worked under renowned sound designer Frank Gaeta, owner of Sound For Film in Los Angeles, California. While there, Kyle worked on films such as Twilight, Taking Chance, and Surfer, Dude, with actors and directors such as Catherine Hardwicke, Robert Pattinson, Kristen Stewart, and Matthew McConaughey.
Kate Saxton (Assistant Director) Kate is an English teacher, theater aficionado, and all-around arts enthusiast. She is a violinist/violist who has spent as much time in the pit as she has on stage. Her credits at Yale University include Sweeney Todd and Cosi Fan Tutte. This is Kate’s third NEO production, and she feels incredibly privileged to work with such professional young people and such youthful professionals. Many thanks to the talented directors and production team for making this show
possible and to the amazing, talented cast for making it all worthwhile.
Sydney Steward ’17 (Student Assistant Director) After tackling a role as emotionally driven as Tituba in The Crucible, Sydney is honored to be the SAD for the more light-hearted Thoroughly Modern Millie! She loves interacting with the actors and carving the world of TMM. One of the most important takeaways from this show is the importance of dichotomy—good and evil, rich and poor, love and hate. Sydney hopes that you will use these as points of dialogue in the community. Enjoy the show!
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Matt Adler ’18 (Violin) Matt has played the violin for 13 years, performing in orchestras, chamber ensembles, and solo recitals. This is his first move from Hubbard to the NEO and his first musical theater experience overall. He looks forward to seeing his friends in action both behind the scenes of the production and on stage.
Deborah Feifer ’17 (Trombone) Deborah is incredibly excited to join the NEO for her final production in the pit orchestra. Over the years, she has also performed in Urinetown, Oklahoma!, and Young Frankenstein. She would like to thank the NEO, the music department, and her parents for these opportunities. To the performers: break a leg, and to the audience: enjoy the show!
Molly Forrester ’19 (Clarinet) Molly is very happy to play in the pit for her second year. She truly enjoyed being part of Young Frankenstein last year! She would like to thank her clarinet teacher, Mr. Kleiner, and Mrs. Chrzanowski for preparing her for this opportunity. Molly would also like to thank her parents for their unconditional support.
Emma Goldfarb ’20 (Guitar) Emma is thrilled to be part of her second NEO production after previously playing Rebecca Nurse in The Crucible. Emma is a drummer and guitarist, and she is excited to play guitar in a musical pit for the first time. Enjoy the show. Maybe you will even hear her strumming her guitar in the background!
Roy Lam ’20 (Cello) Roy feels very honored to join the NEO. He has played the cello for four years with seven years of piano experience before that. Music is his true love and passion, and he embraces every kind of music. Roy would like to thank his parents for supporting and caring for him from abroad. They are always there when he needs help. He is truly looking forward to the production.
Julianna Lee ’19 (Bass) Surviving two flights of stairs and the journey from Hubbard to the NEO with the biggest violin in the orchestra, Julianna is happy to meet the bass-ic needs of the musical. She is very honored that she was chosen out of the many candidates (two). Her wish list includes shrink rays for whenever she needs to move a double bass anywhere.
Rosie Park ’18 (Violin) After enjoying her time in the NEO pit orchestra last year, Rosie returns to help make another great show. She has been playing the violin for seven years, and she loves watching the music and acting come together. Special thanks to Mrs. Caligiuri who helped her understand the historical background of Thoroughly Modern Millie :)
Riley Smith ’18 (Trumpet) Riley is thrilled to be in the pit orchestra for her second year, after performing in Young Frankenstein last winter. She has been playing the trumpet for 11 years, throughout which she has performed with state bands and even a Big Band in New Orleans. She would like to thank Mrs. Chrz for giving her this opportunity.
James Wang ’19 (Cello) James is happy to part of the pit orchestra for Thoroughly Modern Millie. He has studied composers such as Elgar, Bach, and Boccherini. He sometimes plays first chair in the Loomis Chaffee Orchestra, and he also participates in Chamber Music as an amateur musician. He’s thankful to Mrs. Chrzanowski for offering this unique opportunity.
Gloria Yi ’17 (Violin) Delighted to return to the pit orchestra after performing in Oklahoma! and Young Frankenstein, Gloria’s back, jazzier and snazzier than ever! When she’s not dancing backstage with her friends, Gloria enjoys performing with the LC Orchestra and preparing for her recitals. Gloria is ever-thankful for the support of her friends, teachers, and family.
Pit Orchestra
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