Elf the Musical, Jr.

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!
Nov. 19 - Dec. 27, 2021 • All Ages

Virtual Program


 

Elf the Musical, Jr.


Spread holiday cheer by singing loud for all to hear!  

Book by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin
Music by Matthew Sklar
Lyrics by Chad Beguelin
Based upon the New Line Cinema film written by David Berenbaum
Directed by Sandy Boren-Barrett

Originally produced by
Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures
In association with Unique Features

ELF-THE MUSICAL JR. is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).
All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTIShows.com
HEALTH & SAFETY POLICIES & PROCEDURES
SCHEDULE CHANGES & BUILDING UPDATES
The videotaping or other video or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited.

LETTER FROM OUR MANAGING DIRECTOR


Susan Swenson

 

Welcome to Stages Theatre Company!

We are thrilled you are here! Our stage went dark more than 20 months ago, but now, after this long “intermission” our stage lights are once again burning bright. We are so grateful that you have joined in our return to live in-door theatre. Seeing you here is the greatest gift to all of us at Stages Theatre Company.

It’s difficult to find the words for how challenging these 20 months have been. Everything we did covered new territory! Yet, even though our stage lights went dark and many other theatres went on pause, Stages Theatre Company remained open to shine a light wherever and however we could and continued to serve our mission. I take great pride in that. And in this season of giving thanks, I extend a heartfelt thanks to each and every person who played a role in us doing that. It was a group effort and we would not be here without them. Our employees who brought incredible innovation and creativity to our programming, not to mention resilience and patience when we didn’t have all the answers! Our Board who provided the guidance and support we needed to know we were on the right path. Our audiences, who continued to engage with our “out of the box” and outdoor productions, demonstrating their continued trust in our ability to deliver exceptional programming. Art advocates across the country who did amazing work to secure funding and ensure the creative economy survived this once in a lifetime crisis. And last, but certainly not least, our donors who rose to the challenge and provided the operating support we needed to keep moving forward. We will be forever grateful to them all. They got us to where we are today. Back on our stage with the lights turned on and ready for a new season!

A lot has changed over the past 20 months. But what hasn’t changed is the power of stories to connect and inspire us all. I look forward to the season ahead and seeing you here with us as the stage lights aglow on the exciting stories we will tell together at last.

Wishing you and your family all the best this holiday season.

With gratitude,

SUSAN SWENSON
Managing Director

 

LETTER FROM OUR ARTISTIC DIRECTOR


Sandy Boren-Barrett

 

“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear”

 

Two years ago (just two years ago) I had the pleasure of co-directing ELF, Jr. with Michael Matthew Ferrell. Someone who imprinted my artistry, my teaching, my navigating of the world, but most of all, my heart. We lost that giant spirit last spring. But, before he left us, Michael cast THIS production with me. It is in the faces of this cast I see all he hoped and knew they could be, even in the midst of a pandemic. Thank you, Michael for the promise of an amazing restart with this show and these performers. You are still making magic. Singing (and dancing) loud for all to hear.

 

We may call this show a re-opening, a restart, a resuming, which is accurate in regard to performing in our space. But the truth is, we have been here all along. Stages Theatre Company—Our board, staff, teaching artists and all of YOU have continued to bring theatre and joy to what was a time like no other.

 

I want to thank the entire company of ELF, Jr.—the designers, creators, artists, and their families for sharing their time and talent with us. I want to particularly thank Krysti Phillips, who has stood with me throughout. We are once again having the time of our lives, when we were not sure we could feel that way again. Thank you for “just fixing” things, for your energy, kindness, creativity, and the joy we share along the way.

 

I also want to show my gratitude to the staff of Stages Theatre Company, who I have the honor and privilege of working with day after day. They are the best and brightest stars of this organization. They are the ones who “sing” the loudest for all to hear. I am so grateful.

 

Stages Theatre Company has much to celebrate during the holidays and throughout the year, and YOU our loyal audience members are the reason why. You spend time with us. You are kind and generous to us. Now, all you need to do is start singing loud for all to hear to make this season truly special!

 

Oh, what a joy it’s been creating this show! This spirit! Now, share it!

 

SANDY BOREN-BARRETT
Director &  Artistic Director

 

 

CAST


in alphabetical order

Elf & Ensemble - Veronica Albee
Darlene & Ensemble - Brenna Antonson
Michael Hobbs - Will Buckler
Shawanda Elf & Ensemble - Claire Chapman
Emily Hobbs - Shana Eisenberg
Elf & Ensemble - Nina Galindez
Chadwick & Ensemble - Riley Gamades
Elf & Ensemble - Maya Eva Haugen
Elf & Ensemble - Amilia Hinck
Buddy - Sayer Keeley
Sarah & Ensemble - Ella Kozak
Matthews & Ensemble - Jordan Kueng
Charlie Elf & Ensemble - Arnie Morrill
Deb & Ensemble - Alanna Nyberg
Greenway & Ensemble - Livv Rankin
Macy's Manager & Ensemble - Roy Richardson Jr.
Saleswoman & Ensemble - Evelyn Ring
Santa - Bruce Rowan
Elf & Ensemble - Luke Rowan
Sam & Ensemble - Arianna Sanford
Fake Santa's Helper & Ensemble - Olivia Shelton
Charlotte & Ensemble - Audrey Taylor
Walter Hobbs - Brent Teclaw
Elf & Ensemble - Haeman Tona
Jovie - Josie Turk
Fake Santa & Ensemble - Alex Weiner

 

 

 

CREATIVE & CREW


ARTISTIC DIRECTOR & DIRECTOR - Sandy Boren-Barrett
CHOREOGRAPHER - Krysti Wiita
MUSIC DIRECTOR - Kimberly Willow
COSTUME & MAKE-UP DESIGNER - Samantha Fromm Haddow
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR - Gretchen Katt
RESIDENT COSTUMER - Christa Ludwig
LIGHTING DESIGNER - Karin Olson
SOUND DESIGNER - Alan Pagel
PRODUCTION MANAGER - Melanie Salmon-Peterson
PROPS DESIGNER - Kenji Shoemaker
SET DESIGNER - Joe Stanley
STAGE MANAGER - Emily Sullivan
ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER – Joya Horne
SOUNDBOARD OPERATOR - David Gamache
CREW LEAD - Sadie Nelson
FOLLOW SPOT OPERATORS - Grant Hudson, Donte McCarty
LIGHT BOARD OPERATORS - Leah Rimstad, Lilly Nobrega

PAINT CHARGE - Cinde Ashley
PAINTERS - Emma Shine
MASTER ELECTRICIAN - Trevor Zapiecki
ELECTRICIANS - Ches Cipriano, Bridget Gustafson
SHOP VOLUNTEERS - Scott Brown, Warren Glidden, Ron Kline, Yvonne Ring, Steve Skoro, Marianne Wolf

ABOUT THE ARTISTS


 

CAST BIOS


Veronica Albee

 

Veronica Albee  

She/Her 

(ELF & ENSEMBLE) 

Veronica is excited to return to STC in Elf the Musical, Jr alongside a wonderful cast and production team, having previously appeared in Iron Hearted Violet. Veronica is in the seventh grade at Providence Academy where she has appeared in various productions including Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. She enjoys practicing piano, violin, and voice. She was a recent finalist in the Minnesota State Fair talent competition where she sang a solo performance of “I Will Always Love You”. She would like to thank her family near and far for all of their love and support!! 

 

Brenna Antonson

 

Brenna Antonson  

She/Her 

(DARLENE & ENSEMBLE) 

Brenna is making her Stages Theatre Company debut!Brenna lives in Brooklyn Center and is in the tenth grade at West Lutheran High School. Brenna has also performed with Northern Starz, Shooting Starz Productions, Cross Community Players, and Off-Broadway Musical Theatre. She spends a lot of time playing video games with her friends. "It's time for you to look inward and start asking yourself with big question: Who are you and what do you want?" -Uncle Iroh 

Will Buckler  

 

Will Buckler  

He/Him 

(MICHAEL HOBBS) 

Will is excited to be making his Stages Theatre Company debut! Will lives in Wayzata and is in seventh grade. He has been singing since he could talk and has enjoyed performing locally in Frozen Jr, Alice in Wonderland Jr, Seussical and The Little Mermaid. Will has performed with Blue Water Theatre and 4 Community Theatre. He enjoys choir, golf, tennis, reading and playing video games. Will was born in Seattle, WA and goes back to visit as often as he can. He enjoys performing for an audience whether it be his family, friends, or live theatre and he loves making people laugh and singing to the radio with his mom. Will would like to thank his family for their support and taxi service!

Claire Chapman

 

Claire Chapman  

She/Her 

(SHAWANDA ELF & ENSEMBLE) 

Claire returns to STC having previously appeared in Spookley the Square Pumpkin and On The Railroad. Claire lives in Excelsior, MN and is in the nineth grade at Minnetonka High School. Claire has also performed with Minnetonka Theatre, Peace Church Theatre, camps/workshops at Children’s Theatre, Chanhassen Dinner Theatre, and Prairie Fire Theatre. She plays softball for Minnesota Whirl club team and wishes to give “a special shout-out to all my friends for coming to my shows and supporting me!!” 

 

Shana Eisenberg

 

Shana Eisenberg  

She/Her 

(EMILY HOBBS) 

Shana is thrilled to be returning to Stages Theatre and Elf the Musical, Jr! Shana has also performed with Old Log Theatre, Artistry, Sidekick Theatre, Full Circle Theatre, Skylark Opera, and many more! "So much gratitude for everyone involved in this production most especially to our fearless and fallen leader Michael Matthew Ferrell. Thank you for all your joyous leadership and creativity over the years. You had a way of sharing your soul with everyone around you and I'll always be grateful that I got to be one of those people. May your memory be a blessing."

 

Nina Galindez

 

Nina Galindez  

She/Her 

(ELF & ENSEMBLE) 

Nina is making her Stages Theatre Company debut! Nina, an eighth-grader from Scott Highlands Middle School, has also performed with Children’s Castle, Prairie Fire Children’s Theatre, Allegro Choral Academy and Betty Jo’s Dance Center. She has been dancing (tap, jazz, ballet and kick) since she was 4. Nina plays the piano, saxophone and ukelele and also keeps busy working on her second-degree black belt in karate. Nina attends the University of Minnesota and is a proud student of their Talented Youth Math Program (UMTYMP) - she absolutely enjoys math competitions. Elf is her favorite holiday tale of all time and she is very excited to be part of Elf Jr. coming alive onstage!

 

Riley Gamades

 

Riley Gamades  

He/Him 

(CHADWICK & ENSEMBLE) 

Riley is excited to be performing in his sixth production at Stages Theatre. His previous shows include Disney And Cameron Mackintosh's Mary Poppins Jr, Roald Dahl's WILLY WONKA, TYA,  Elf the Musical, Jr., Peace 4 the Ages, and Twas the Night. He has also performed with Chaska Valley Family Theatre and Bloomington community theatre. Riley is a tenth grader at Chanhassen High School and loves hanging out with friends and going to football games. He would like to thank his family for all of their support!

 

 

Maya Haugen

 

Maya Haugen  

She/Her 

(ELF & ENSEMBLE) 

Maya is excited to return to STC having previously appeared in You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown, Roald Dahl's WILLY WONKA, TYA,  and Three Snow Bears. She has performed at Bluewater Theatre, 4CT, and Orono Schools. Maya is in 8th grade and competes in speech and tennis at Orono.  “I would like to thank my parents for driving me and supporting me in every production. “Be the best that you can be!” 

  

Amilia HinckAmilia Hinck  

She/Her 

(ELF & ENSEMBLE) 

Amilia returns to STC having previously appeared in The Dot and The Day You Begin (rehearsed but not staged due to Covid). Amilia has also performed at Orchestra Hall, Theater 301, Lundstrum Performing Arts, Broadway Artists Alliance (NYC), and Elite Zoom Theater (NYC). Amilia lives in Deephaven and is in the ninth grade at Breck School. Amilia loves reading, baking, art and plants. Special thanks to her family for all the support. “This is a wonderful day, I’ve never seen it before” - Maya Angelou 

 

Sayer Keeley

 

Sayer Keeley  

He/Him 

(BUDDY) 

Sayer returns to STC having previously appeared in You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown, Legendary: A Detect the Story Adventure, Twas the Night, All the World, Peace 4 the Ages, Roald Dahl's WILLY WONKA, TYA, The Most Magnificent Thing, Disney And Cameron Mackintosh's Mary Poppins Jr., and Madagascar-A Musical. Sayer lives in Shoreview and is in the twelfth grade at SPCPA. Sayer would like to thank Stages for being his second family and for all of the support his friends and family over the years! 

 

Ella Kozak

 

Ella Kozak  

She/Her 

(SARAH & ENSEMBLE) 

Ella Kozak is excited to be back at Stages this winter for her 5th show! She was last seen with Stages in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown as Peppermint Patty. She attends Inver Hills Community College for PSEO and studies violin and voice. You can often find her cuddling with her cats or singing her favorite musical theatre songs. She thanks you for coming to the performance! 

 

Jordan Kueng

 

Jordan Kueng  

He/Him 

(MATTHEWS & ENSEMBLE) 

Jordan is making his Stages Theatre Company debut! Jordan lives in Minneapolis and is in the eleventh grade at FAIR Dowtown. “I would like to give special thanks to my theatre teacher André Samples for introducing me to such a wonderful art and also for giving me the opportunity to be apart of this production!” “Live life like everyone’s watching cause one day they will be, and when that day comes they won’t know what hit em” -me”

 

Arnie Morrill

 

Arnie Morrill  

He/Him 

(CHARLIE ELF & ENSEMBLE) 

Arnie is making his Stages Theatre Company debut! Arnie lives in Prior Lake and is in the sixth grade at Hidden Oaks Middle School, Prior Lake. Arnie has also performed with Child's Play Theatre, Prior Lake Players, The Play's the Thing, Children's Castle Theater, and River Valley Theater Company. He has two older brothers, three cats and his parents are his biggest fans. Arnie has been acting for four years and has been in 20 plays. Favorites productions include:  Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and The Wizard of Oz. “Why fit in when you are born to stand out.” - Dr. Seuss 

 

 

Alanna Nyberg

 

Alanna Nyberg  

She/Her 

(DEB & ENSEMBLE) 

Alanna returns to STC having previously appeared in Down on the Farm, Roald Dahl's James and the Giant Peach, TYA, Leo Lionni's INCH BY INCH, On The Railroad, and The Hobbit. She is an eleventh grader at Acellus Academy Online.  Alanna has also worked with Yellow Tree Theatre, Front Porch Musical Theatre, and Bunce Backyard Productions.   One of Alanna's favorite activities is spending time at the cabin with her family.  She also loves superheroes, Harry Potter, Star Wars, and everything Roald Dahl and J.R.R Tolkien. “I would like to give a special thank you to my parents for their support and my siblings for always coming to my shows.” “All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us.” - J.R.R. Tolkien. 

Livv Rankin

 

Livv Rankin  

She/Her 

(GREENWAY & ENSEMBLE) 

Livv returns to STC having previously appeared in Down on the Farm, All the World, Elf the Musical, Jr, Spookley the Square Pumpkin, Leo Lionni's INCH BY INCH, and Hidden Heroes The Black Women of NASA. Livv lives in New Brighton and is in the eleventh grade at Irondale High School. Livv has also performed with Ashland productions. She loves to paint and draw, loves to sing! Special thanks to Michael Matthew Ferrell who loved me as I am and always supported my theatre aspirations! “Give it all ya got, don’t hold back, what are ya waiting for, Christmas?” -MMF 

 

 

Roy Richardson Jr

 

Roy Richardson Jr.  

He/Him 

(MACY'S MANAGER & ENSEMBLE) 

Roy returns to STC having previously appeared in Crenshaw and Magic Tree House: A Night in New Orleans. Since the last time he was on stage with STC he graduated from North Hennepin Community College, traveled the country teaching and performing poetry and started screenwriting. Roy has also performed with North Hennepin Community College, Children's Theater Company, and Capri Theater.  He hopes you enjoy the show, feel free to tell him your favorite part. “Special thanks to my friends and family for always being supportive. Special thanks to Kathy and Mike for pushing me to work as hard as I can.” “Live in the moment, you're living in the good times.” 

 

 

Evelyn Ring

 

Evelyn Ring  

She/Her 

(SALESWOMAN & ENSEMBLE) 

Evelyn returns to STC having previously appeared in Twas the Night. Evelyn lives in Shorewood and is in the nineth grade at Minnetonka High School. Evelyn has also performed with Prairie Fire Children's Theatre, River Valley Dance Academy Musical Theatre Productions, Minnetonka Middle School and Minnetonka Elementary School Theatre. “I would like to thank my family and friends for always coming out and supporting my shows! Evelyn loves to draw and create stories with her friends, “it really helps me with developing personas for my parts on stage.” “Current disappointments are future possibilities.” 

 

Bruce Rowan

 

Bruce Rowan  

He/Him 

(SANTA) 

Bruce retired in 2015 from Stages Theatre Company after working here for 23 years! His continuing work on stage, however, suggests a slightly different story. You may have seen his post-retirement appearances in Elf the Musical, Jr., Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka, TYA, The Most Magnificent Thing, The Nightingale, Stone Soup, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Jr. and many, many more. 

 

Luke Rowan

 

Luke Rowan  

He/Him 

(ELF & ENSEMBLE) 

Luke is making his Stages Theatre Company debut! Luke lives in St. Louis Park and is in the eighth grade at St. Louis Park Middle School. He likes to ride his bike all over his neighborhood. Luke has done multiple productions at St Louis Park Middle School, including James and the Giant Peach as Billy Bobby Cop. 

 

Ari Sanford

 

Ari Sanford  

She/Her 

(SAM & ENSEMBLE) 

Ari Sanford (Sam/Ensemble) Ari is excited to be returning to Stages with her fourth production! She appeared in Three Snow BearsHidden Heroes; The Black Women Of NASA, and James And The Giant Peach! Ari most recently appeared in Minneapolis Community Educations Production of Matilda where she played the role of Lavender. Ari is a twelfth Grader at FAIR school downtown, and would like to give a special thanks to her family and Mr. Samples  for continuing to show their support! 

 

Olivia Shelton

 

Olivia Shelton  

She/Her 

(FAKE SANTA'S HELPER & ENSEMBLE) 

Olivia is making her StagesTheatre Company debut! Olivia lives in Centerville and is in the eighth grade at Hilltop Homeschool. Olivia has also performed with MN Opera's Children's Program, MN Opera, and Front Porch Musical Theatre and ISI Players. “I have an international family. I am the youngest, but I was adopted first, from China. My brother and sister are from Haiti.” Olivia even has a dog from Mexico! She enjoys playing piano, singing, tap dancing, reading and drawing. Olivia has appeared on camera as the spokesperson for her dentist's YouTube channel and was in a student film called Her Name Means Love with the MCTC Cinema Department. “Though she be but little, she is fierce!” - Shakespeare. 

 

Audrey Taylor

 

Audrey Taylor  

She/Her 

(CHARLOTTE & ENSEMBLE) 

Audrey is making her Stages Theatre Company debut! Audrey lives in Edina and is in the tenth grade at Benilde St Margarets. She has three older sisters and has a huge appreciation for wildlife. "Success is not final; failure is not fatal" - Winston Churchill 

 

Brent Teclaw

 

Brent Teclaw 

He/Him 

(WALTER HOBBS) 

Brent has been in over 35 productions here at Stages Theatre Company. Most recently appearing as  Walter Hobbs in the 2019 production of Elf the Musical, Jr. He has also worked locally with The Ordway, DalekoArts, Artistry Theatre, Lakeshore Players, Actors Theatre of Minnesota, Theatre in the Round, Old Log Theater, Minneapolis Musical Theatre and has toured nationally with Troupe America. He can also be seen and heard in commercials, film and voice over.  brentteclaw.com 

 

Haeman Tina

 

Haeman Tona  

He/Him 

(ELF & ENSEMBLE) 

Haeman is making his Stages Theatre Company debut! This 12-year old’s special skills include: singing, acting, writing short stories and comics, drawing, rap and dance. He’s taken theater classes at his school and played a lead role in school plays. Haeman has been in choir for two years and has published comics on webtoon with more than 45k views. He’s currently learning the saxophone and writing songs while searching for acting opportunities. 

 

Josie Turk

 

Josie Turk  

She/Her 

(JOVIE) 

Josie returns to STC having previously appeared in Elf the Musical, Jr, Roald Dahl's WILLY WONKA, TYA, Disney And Cameron Mackintosh's Mary Poppins Jr., Annie Jr., and Twelve Dancing Princesses. Josie has also performed with The Ordway, Theatre Latte Da, History Theatre, Benilde-St. Margaret's High School. Hennepin Theatre Trust Spotlight Award - Outstanding performance in a lead role Benilde-St. Margaret's Drama Department Award - Best Supporting Actress. Josie lives in Minnetrista and is in the tenth grade at Benilde-St. Margaret's High School. “Special thanks to my parents and sisters for their love and support” 

Alex Weiner

 

Alex Weiner  

He/Him 

(FAKE SANTA & ENSEMBLE) 

Alex returns to STC having previously appeared in You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown, Elf the Musical, Jr, Roald Dahl's WILLY WONKA, TYA, The Most Magnificent Thing, Three Snow Bears, Madagascar-A Musical Adventure, and Shrek The Musical. Alex has also performed with Chaska Valley Family Theatre, and District 112 Middle School Theatre. In the two long pandemic years since then he's gone from playing the kid sitting on Fake Santa's lap to playing Fake Santa! Alex has been involved in dance and theatre since he was 7 years old. What he loves most about theatre is the accepting community of diverse and fun friends he's made during the course of every show. Alex's favorite things are travel, animals, and Ariana Grande. He is a freshman at Chanhassen High School this year. Alex has also appeared on camera in Landscape Structures commercial. 

CREATIVE TEAM BIOS


SANDY BOREN-BARRETT SANDY BOREN-BARRETT (Artistic Director and Director)
Sandy Boren-Barrett has been with Stages Theatre Company (STC) since 1990, allowing her to pursue her passion for theatre production and education, along with community building theatre serving young audiences. During her time in leadership STC has been awarded National recognition with the 2017 Harold Oaks Award for Innovative Contributions to the Field of Theatre for Young Audiences, as well as the 2018 – 50/50 Applause Award for promoting gender equity with playwrights. STC’s 2019-2020 season selection was highlighted in TYA Today Magazine as an example of “a promising increase in representation specifically in works that feature the stories of contemporary young people of color”. Sandy led an international performance tour and artistic exchange with “the egg Theatre, the Young Peoples Theatre of Theatre Royal” in Bath England. Collaboration is at the core of her work, and as an accomplished director has directed over 75 productions at STC which include many new works, dance-inspired productions, and world premieres. She directed the local premier, mainstage production of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, the musical which remains the highest attended production at Stages Theatre Company. Sandy remains on the Executive Committee, as former chair of Minnesota Citizens for the Arts (MCA) and last spring worked with Racially Conscious Collaboration (RCC) to gain her certification in racial equity organizational leadership.


KRYSTI WIITA PHILLIPSKRYSTI WIITA PHILLIPS (Choreographer)
Krysti is the Program & Events Manager and Development Associate for Alive & Kickin and has been a part of the A&K family for 5 years. She has also done 4 productions at Stages Theatre Company: Peace 4 the Ages, Elf the Musical, Jr., Disney And Cameron Mackintosh's Mary Poppins Jr, and Disney's Beauty and the Beast, Jr. Krysti has worked on many theatrical productions throughout the Twin Cities at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, Chanhassen Dinner Theatre, Children’s Theatre Company, GREAT Theatre, Duluth Playhouse, Theatre Latte Da, and Artistry.


KIMBERLY WILLOWKIMBERLY WILLOW (Music Director)
Kim is excited to be back at Stages for this wonderful holiday show! Kimberly Willow is a singer, actor and dancer that also enjoys time behind the scenes as music director and choreographer. Since graduating from Minnesota State University, Mankato, with a BFA in Musical Theatre, Kim has performed professionally in national tours and regional theatre all over the country. Her time at Stages has included the music direction of Elf, Mary Poppins, Rudolph, Frederick the Musical, and choreography for Rudolph, Charlie Brown Christmas, and Llama Llama Holiday Drama. Favorite performance credits include: Cosette (Les Miserables), Peggy Sawyer (42nd Street), Lily St. Regis (Annie) and Cinderella (Into the Woods).


THOMAS MEEHANTHOMAS MEEHAN (BOOK)
Thomas Meehan received the Tony Award for co-writing the book for The Producers in 2001 and in 2003 for co-writing the book for Hairspray. He received his first Tony Award in 1977 for writing the book of Annie, which was his first Broadway show, and has written the books for the musicals Rocky, Elf the Musical, Cry-Baby, Young Frankenstein, Chaplin, Bombay Dreams, I Remember Mama, Ain’t Broadway Grand and Annie Warbucks. In addition, he was a long-time contributor of humor to The New Yorker, an Emmy-Award winning writer of television comedy, and a collaborator on a number of screenplays, including Mel Brooks' Spaceballs and To Be Or Not To Be. Mr. Meehan was also a member of the Council of the Dramatists Guild. He and his wife, Carolyn, divided their time between a home in Nantucket and an apartment in Greenwich Village, near which, on Hudson Street, she owned and presided over the long-running and near-legendary children's store Peanut Butter & Jane.


BOB MARTINBOB MARTIN (BOOK)
BOB MARTIN has been working as an actor and writer in Canadian theatre, film and television for over 3 decades. He has had a long association with the Toronto Second City, where he co-wrote and performed in four Second City revues, directed three, and had a stint as Artistic Director. He is a co-creator of The Drowsy Chaperone, and has performed in many of its incarnations including Ahmanson Theatre (Los Angeles), Marquis Theatre (Broadway), Novello (London). Bob has won a number of awards for his work including an LA Drama Critics Circle Award, an L.A. Stage Alliance Ovation Award, a Drama Desk Award, a Theatre World Award, and a Tony Award. He is also co-creator of the critically acclaimed dramatic series Slings & Arrows. Recent TV projects include Michael: Tuesdays and Thursdays I & II (CBC), Sensitive Skin I & II (HBO), and Elf: Buddy's Musical Christmas (NBC). Recent theatre projects include Elf (Broadway), Minsky's (Ahmanson LA), and in dev., Gotta Dance, The Sting, and Millions. Bob reunited with Elf collaborators Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin to create the new musical The Prom, now playing on Broadway at the Longacre Theatre and nominated for seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical.


MATTHEW SKLARMATTHEW SKLAR (MUSIC)
Matthew Sklar is a Tony®, Emmy®, and Drama Desk Award-nominated composer. His works include the Broadway musicals Elf and The Wedding Singer (Tony Award Nomination for Best Original Score, Drama Desk Award Nomination for Outstanding Music). He also wrote the music for The Rhythm Club (Signature Theatre), Judas & Me, and Wicked City (American Stage Company). Matthew reunited with Elf collaborators Chad Beguelin and Bob Martin to create the new musical The Prom, now playing on Broadway at the Longacre Theatre and nominated for seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Matthew received a 2015 Primetime Emmy® Award Nomination for Outstanding Music Direction for the critically-acclaimed NBC stop-motion animated TV special "Elf: Buddy's Musical Christmas", starring Jim Parsons. He adapted and arranged the music of Marvin Hamlisch for the Emmy Award-winning documentary film Marvin Hamlisch: What He Did For Love, seen on PBS/American Masters. Matthew has contributed original songs/music to Sesame Street, Wonder Pets!, and the NBC Broadcast of The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. As a freshman at New York University, Matthew began playing keyboards for the Broadway production of Les Miserables, eventually conducting the show at 21. He has also been a keyboardist, conductor, and/or arranger for many Broadway productions including Shrek, Caroline, or Change, Nine, Oklahoma, 42nd Street, Putting It Together, Annie Get Your Gun, On the Town, Titanic, Guys and Dolls, Sunset Boulevard, and Miss Saigon. Matthew also appeared onstage as Oscar in the Broadway revival of 42nd Street. Awards include the ASCAP Richard Rodgers New Horizons Award, the Gilman/Gonzalez-Falla Theatre Award, and the Jonathan Larson Performing Arts Foundation Award. He is a proud member of the Dramatists Guild, ASCAP, and the American Federation of Musicians, Local 802. His music is published by Warner/Chappell Music. Matthew was educated at The Juilliard School of Music (Pre-College Division), the Boston University Tanglewood Institute, and New York University.


CHAD BEGUELINCHAD BEGUELIN (LYRICS)
is a four-time Tony Nominee whose works include Disney's Aladdin (Tony Award Nomination for Best Book and Best Original Score, Drama Desk Award Nomination for Outstanding Lyrics and Best Book) and The Wedding Singer (Tony Award Nomination for Best Book and Best Original Score, Drama Desk Award Nomination for Outstanding Lyrics). He also wrote the lyrics for the Broadway musical Elf, which broke several box office records at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre. His play HARBOR premiered off-Broadway at Primary Stages. Chad also wrote the book and lyrics for Judas & Me (NYMF Award for Excellence in Lyric Writing), The Rhythm Club (Signature Theater) and Wicked City(American Stage Company). Chad reunited with Elf collaborators Matthew Sklar and Bob Martin to create the new musical The Prom, now playing on Broadway at the Longacre Theatre and nominated for seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical. He is the recipient of the Edward Kleban Award for Outstanding Lyric Writing, the Jonathan Larson Performing Arts Foundation Award, the Gilman & Gonzalez-Falla Musical Theater Award and the ASCAP Foundation Richard Rodgers New Horizons Award. Chad is a graduate of New York University's Tisch School of the Arts Graduate Dramatic Writing Program.

ABOUT STAGES THEATRE COMPANY


Stages Theatre Company was founded in 1984 and has since grown to become the second-largest nonprofit theatre for young audiences in Minnesota. We believe that the arts are fundamental to child development and overall quality of life, and that every individual, regardless of economic circumstances, geography, or ability, should be able to enjoy the joy, wonder, and benefits of participation in the theatre arts.

OUR MISSION


Stages Theatre Company is committed to the enrichment and education of children and youth in a professional theatre environment that stimulates artistic excellence and personal growth.

INCLUSION STATEMENT


Stages Theatre Company is dedicated to creating a space where diverse opinions, courageous dialogue, and local, national, and international community engagement is not only valued, but vital to our shared artistic and educational success. We make this pledge in the hope of curating a welcome home for all.

LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT


Stages Theatre Company acknowledges with respect and gratitude that the land on which we live and work is the unceded, traditional sovereign land of the Wahpekute and Očhéthi Šakówiŋ.

We make this acknowledgment as a first step in taking responsibility to critically examine colonial histories and their implications on our day-to-day lives. We are committed to learning from the past and honoring the traditional custodians of this land.

STAGES THEATRE COMPANY STAFF


BOARD OF DIRECTORS


Dave Klein, Chair
Lisa Kline, Vice Chair
Dave Mahler, Treasurer
Lisa Beth Lentini, Secretary

Stephanie Betz
Betsy Butwin
Lisa Collins
Tara Cruz
Karen Winter Dekker
Barry Gersick
Tenisha Hollie
Mimi Keating
Christine Kwiat
Dimitrios Lalos
Janet Langner
Mauricio Loria
Eric Lucas
Tom Matchinsky
Victoria Mogilevsky
Christina Mosakowski
Sue Moulder
Linda Moy
Meighan O’Reardon
Elizabeth Plaetz Lori
Kathy Scheving
Beth Theobald
Nicole Truso
Jennifer Q. Williams
Lisa Zell

Advisory Board

Peggy Abram
Nance Alexander
Kevin Bennett
Laura Bishop
Nancy Carlson
Otis Courtney
Audrey Dammer
R. Brooks Gekler
Marianne Norris
Dan O’Brien
Kristin Parrish
Bruce Rowan
Laura Sandall
Judy Schumeister
Buffy Sedlachek
Jackie Sinjem

SPONSORS, DONORS & GIFTS

Stages Theatre Company (STC) was founded in 1984 and has since grown to become one of the largest professional theatres for young audiences in the country.

STC serves nearly 150,000 youth (ages 2-17) and family members annually through high-quality opportunities on stage, backstage, in the audience, and in the classroom. We engage diverse youth from the community with themes relevant to their lives and involve them in creating inspiring works featuring meaningful roles for youth.

We believe that the arts are fundamental to child development and overall quality of life, and every individual, regardless of economic circumstances, geography, or ability, should have the opportunity to experience the joy, wonder, and benefits of participation in the theatre arts.

Our contributors play an important role in ensuring our work is accessible to all youth in our community, regardless of income or ability. Donations help us keep our ticket prices affordable and provide free and reduced-priced opportunities for over 15,000 youth to experience the magic of live theatre and benefits that theatre arts education can provide.

Stages Theatre Company is grateful for the support provided by the following individuals, foundations, corporations, and government agencies during the past 12 months.