DESERT STAGES THEATRE - Mar. 4 - 20, 2022
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SCOTTSDALE
DESERT STAGES THEATRE
PRESENTS
Mar. 4 – 20, 2022
DESERT STAGES THEATRE
SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA
MAINSTAGE PRODUCTION
CHESS THE MUSICAL
Book by Richard Nelson
Lyrics by Tim Rice
usic by
M
Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson
Directed by Chris R. Chávez
Musical Direction by Ken Goodenberger
Choreography by Ruby Wagner
CHESS is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals.
www.concordtheatricals.com
WELCOME Welcome to Desert Stages Theatre, and thank you for joining us at this performance of Chess the Musical! And isn't the timing poignantly perfect to revive this rarely-produced gem? A highly allegorical musical, Chess has been called a metaphor for the entire Cold War. The game of chess is a manipulative one, and Chess satirizes the international political atmosphere of the 1980's. Here we are, in the same place again, decades later. So, while pondering the im- plications for the future, please enjoy the fantastic music from Benny and Bjorn of Abba, the clever and biting lyrics of Sir Tim Rice, and the fan- tastic cast of talent assembled by Director Chris R. Chávez and his team. DST still has COVID-19 safety protocols in place to keep you, our actors, and our staff safe, especially during the recent surges in the number of cases. Please wear your mask the entire time you are in the theatre. If you wish to meet up with friends or cast members after the show, please arrange to do so in the food court area of the mall so the lobby doesn't get congested. There will be no gathering inside the DST lobby. Thank you in advance for your cooperation! Thank you again for your support of live theatre and for your attendance at this production. Whether you are seeing your 100th show or your first at DST, you are a valued member of the Desert Stages Theatre commu- nity, and we appreciate you more than you could ever know! Ellen Versen Walt Versen Executive Director Artistic Director
DIRECTOR'S LETTER I was first introduced to Chess in college by my then vocal teacher who gave me the songs “Where I Want To Be” and “Anthem” that Anatoly sings in this production. I quickly became obsessed with the show as most people who get introduced to it do. I mean who wouldn’t love a musical written by the men of Abba and absolute brilliant lyricist Tim Rice? With everyone’s love for Chess there are also two very different arenas, those who love the London version and those who love the Broadway version. For me, the Broadway version was the first recording I heard, so it has become the one I’m more privy too, and is also the one that you will see presented today. There are major differences between the two and in reading both scripts it is easy to say why the love for each individual script is so polarizing. That being said, at the core of both stories is a story of love, intrigue, and of course, Chess. At it’s most basic, Chess is an allegory for the Cold-War told through a Soviet (Anatoly) vs American (Freddie) chess game. As we started work on this monster of a show, I started noticing a lot of parallels to what is going on in our own world at the current time with Russia and Ukraine. Anyone, who was alive during the Cold War era can probably see the same parallels. It is quite cliché to say “history repeats itself”, but here we are, once again, over 30 years later. In one of our rehearsals someone said to me, “you like to take cult-y shows and make them relevant” (or something to that effect, at least that what I was hearing). This is true, I did that with Carrie and here we are again with Chess, which although not as short lived as Carrie, only had a two week stint on Broadway in 1988. So why did I choose to direct this show? For one, I like a challenge, but more importantly, I like to direct shows that audiences aren’t always aware of, or have may have only heard of. I think shows like Chess need to be presented so in a sense, they don’t get forgotten. All that being said, to date, Chess has been one of the most challenging shows I have directed. This is mostly because, it is not always a very easy story to follow, and along those lines I did not want to make the story more complicated than is required. So, it is my hope that what you are watching is yes, entertaining, but also easy to follow. I want to thank DST for this amazing opportunity to present a show that, although a fan favorite, is rarely produced. Thank you for taking a risk and letting me run with it. I want to thank Ken for being a great collaborator and for making this extremely difficult music sound so beautiful. Thank you Ruby for you beautiful choreography and artistic touch. Thank you Ryan for keeping me level-headed no matter how high the stress became. As always thank you to my family and friends for always supporting me. Special thanks goes to Vince for your utmost patience with my limited time and for your unending support. Lastly, I want to thank this cast for being so trusting of me, allowing yourselves to be so vulnerable, and mostly for just coming on this journey with me. I could not be more proud! Chris R. Chávez Director
THE CAST
Florence...........................................................................Alice Johnson
Freddie.............................................................................Zac Bushman
Anatoly..........................................................................Nick Hambruch
Svetlana.........................................................................Christina Clodt
Arbiter......................................................................Jeremy Yampolsky
Molokov.............................................................................Josh Hengst
Walter.........................................................................Casey Karapetian
Gregor.................................................................................Henry Male
Nikolai.........................................................................Rudy Bogojevich
Young Florence.............................Ava Seidensticker, Charlotte Mikalsky
Ensemble
Falin Ossipinsky, Jessyca Jacobs, Joe Jacobs, Bailey Gorman,
Raymere Carter, Kirsten Orrahood, Courtney Jacobs,
Savoy Antoinette, Maria Bain, Kennedy Czyz, Alexandra Palmatier,
Matt Snell, Tyler Snell, Salem Stolworthy
PRODUCTION STAFF
Director..........................................................................Chris R. Chávez
Music Director.........................................................Ken Goodenberger
Choreographer.................................................................Ruby Wagner
Assistant Music Director...............................................Thomas Hartwell
Stage Manager…………………………..............................Ryan Bowman
Set Builder and Painter....………………..............................Rick Sandifer
Costume Designer..……………….…..…........Richard “Mickey” Courtney
Hair/Makeup Consultant..……………….…..........…........Christina Clodt
Props Designer..…..............................................................Ally Baumlin
Lighting Designer.........……...........……...................…............Kitty Katz
Media Designer.........……............................………............Brady Fiscus
Sound Designer………………….............….........................Kenseye Fort
Sound Board Operator…….....….......................................Cliff Williams
Spotlight Operators.…........................…………Eli Franklin, Zara Pearce
Deckhand…………….................................……..…............Ava Sandifer
Show Photographer.................................……..….............Jason K. Walz
DST THEATRE STAFF
Executive Director..............................................................Ellen Versen
Artistic Director...................................................................Walt Versen
Production Manager..........................................................Ally Baumlin
Associate Artistic Advisor......................................Lisa Barton Figueroa
Box Office Manager...........................................................Linda Barton
Box Office Staff.........................................Diana Gallegos, Ali Giordano,
Michael Lev, Karen Rhoads
Graphic Designer/Webmaster............................................Dina Osinski
Theatre Rentals....................................................................Bill Watson
DST BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President.............................................................................Bill Watson
Vice President.......................................................................Mike Arko
Treasurer................................................................................Rich Rose
Member.............................................................................Lynnae Clore
Member................................................................................Walter Hall
Member........................................................................Dawn Jurkovich
Member................................................................................Terri Leblic
Member..........................................................................Jessica Loomis
Member.............................................................................Lori Markson
WARNING: This performance contains strobe and flashing lights, as
well as multiple gun shots that will be quite loud.
The use of any recording device, either audio or video, and the taking
of photographs, either with or without flash, is STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
MUSICAL NUMBERS
ACT 1
Prologue.........................................................Budapest, Hungary 1956
The Story of Chess.....................................................................Gregor
BANGKOK, THAILAND, THE PRESENT TIME
Freddie's Entrance....................................................................Freddie
Press Conference.......................................Freddie, Florence, Reporters
Where I Want to Be..................................................................Anatoly
Argument...................................................................Florence, Freddie
Merchandisers.....................................................Walter, Merchandisers
Diplomats..................................Molokov, American & Soviet Delegates
Quartet...........................................Molokov, Florence, Arbiter, Anatoly
Florence/American..................................................................Florence
Someone Else's Story..............................................................Florence
One Night in Bangkok........................................Freddie and Company
Terrace Duet..............................................................Florence, Anatoly
Florence Quits...........................................................Freddie, Florence
A Taste of Pity...........................................................................Freddie
Nobody's Side.........................................................................Florence
Reporters...............................................................................Reporters
Anthem.....................................................................................Anatoly
INTERMISSION
ACT 2
Arbiter's Song.........................................................Arbiter & Company
BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
Hungarian Folk Song.............................................................Company
Heaven Help My Heart............................................................Florence
Winning.........................................................................Freddie, Walter
You and I......................................................Anatoly, Florence, Svetlana
Freddie Goes Metal..................................................................Freddie
Let's Work Together.....................................................Walter, Molokov
I Know Him So Well..................................................Florence, Svetlana
Pity The Child...........................................................................Freddie
Father's Lullaby (Apukah Eros Kezen).........................Gregor, Florence
Endgame...................................................Anatoly, Freddie & Company
You and I (reprise)......................................................Anatoly, Florence
Finale (reprise).........................................................................Florence
WHO'S WHO IN THE CAST ALICE JOHNSON Florence Alice is beyond grateful to be cast as Florence in Chess! Alice has literally been dreaming of this role since she was a little girl listening to the amazing Judy Kuhn in the original Broadway Cast. Favorite roles include Into the Woods (Witch); Shrek the Mu- sical (Mama Ogre/ Mama Bear); Freaky Friday the Musical (Danielle/ Ms. Meyers) and most recently Nunsense (Robert Anne) at Hale Theatre in Gilbert. HUGE thank you to family and friends for their con- stant love, support and encouragement.Special thank you to Chris Chavez for this opportunity and for his trust with Florence and her story. ZAC BUSHMAN Freddie Zac is excited to return to the stage as Freddie. He has been seen before in roles such as Gaston (Beauty and the Beast), Capt. Phoebus de Martin (Hunchback of Notre Dame), Harold Hill (The Music Man), and John Utterson (Jekyll & Hyde). He would like to thank Chris and the rest of the cast and crew for believing in him despite his own doubts and his mom for in- spiring such a deep love of music in him and always being his confidant. NICK HAMBRUCH Anatoly Nicholas is excited to return to Desert Stages. Recent credits include his Zoni nominated perfor- mance as Quasimodo in The Hunchback of Notre Dame at Zao Theatre, Harry in Kinky Boots at Phoe- nix Theatre, Joe Sutter in Spitfire Grill at Arizona Broadway Theatre, and Edward Bloom in Big Fish at various venues. Find him on Instagram @nickofmusic
WHO'S WHO IN THE CAST CHRISTINA CLODT Svetlana Originally from California, Christina has performed in dozens of local productions. Her favorite roles include Prudy Pingleton (Hairspray, DFT) and Lola (Damn Yankees!, DST). She was recently on stage as Karen the Computer (The SpongeBob Musical, Star- light). Offstage, Christina is a mom to three grown up humans and a menagerie of beasts. She would like to thank Chris, Ken, Ruby and Ryan for this incredible opportunity and her family for their enduring sup- port. Special thanks to her partner, favorite actor and best friend: Joshua. JEREMY YAMPOLSKY Arbiter Jeremy is so excited to be back on stage at DST! Pre- vious credits include Chad (Disaster!), Carl Hanratty (CMIFYC), Bobby Strong (Urinetown), and William Barfèe (25th Annual…). Major thanks to Chris, Ken, the cast, and crew for all their hard work on this show. Love to Erin and my fam (as always). Thanks for com- ing, tell your friends, and enjoy the show! JOSH HENGST Molokov Josh can hardly believe he is part of this very tal- ented cast! He is thrilled to be playing the villainous Molokov in this wonderful DST production of Chess. You may have recently seen Josh as Plankton in The Spongebob Musical (Starlight) or as Wadsworth in Clue (DST). He would like to thank his life partner and cast mate Christina for all her love and support. He would also like to thank his daughter Noel, step- daughter Kenzie, and all his friends and family for supporting his theater passion.
WHO'S WHO IN THE CAST CASEY KARAPETIAN Walter Casey is thrilled to be making his DST debut in one of his favorite shows! Other favorite shows he's done include Little Shop of Horrors (Ensemble), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Clopin), Assassins (Leon Czolgosz), Sweeney Todd (Ensemble), and Sunday in the Park with George (Soldier). Love and thanks to his family and friends who continue to support his love for doing theatre! HENRY MALE Gregor Henry is delighted to be returning to DST. He was last seen here as Mr. Stephens in Carrie the Musical this past November. He’s been in over 25 produc- tions with Fountain Hills and Mesa Encore Theaters. Performances that hold a special place in his heart are Herr Schultz in Cabaret, Buddy in We Will Rock You and Assassins (where he worked with Nick, Casey and Chris!). Originally an east coast soul, Henry and his family moved to Arizona from Maine in 2003. An avid Penn State sports fan, he is the Director of Inter- net Sales for BMW and MINI North Scottsdale.
WHO'S WHO IN THE CAST RUDY BOGOJEVICH Nikolai Rudy is excited to be back for his third show at DST! Chess has been a longtime favorite of his and he couldn't be more thankful to be part of an amazing cast and crew. Some Past Credits Include: Bun Foo (Thoroughly Modern Millie), Fyedka (Fiddler on the Roof), Tenario (Man of La Mancha), Jury 1st Tenor (Trial by Jury), Tobias Ragg (Sweeney Todd), Rocky (Damn Yankees), Jonathan Harker/Arthur Holmwood (Dracula), Chip Tolentino (The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee), and Rapunzel’s Prince (Into the Woods). Rudy would love to thank his wonder- ful castmates and crew that have worked tirelessly to create such a wonderful show. Thank you to Chris for his exceptional creativity and Ken for his superior musical direction. A big Thank you to his wife and kids, his father, and his sister who continue to sup- port him in his endeavors. Thank you to those who continue to support DST and come to see such won- derfully talented artists show their work. AVA SEIDENSTICKER Young Florence Ava is so excited and honored to be a part of DST’s production of Chess! Ava’s previous credits include Gretl (The Sound of Music), Toto (The Wizard of Oz), and Woodstock (You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown). Huge thank you to Chris and her DST Family for this incredible opportunity as well as the cast and crew for their support. Ava would also like to thank her family for always supporting her passion for live the- atre!
WHO'S WHO IN THE CAST CHARLOTTE MIKALSKY Young Florence Charlotte is in first grade. She loves the stage, sing- ing and, ice skating. Charlotte has been recognized at state level for voice. She was most recently seen in Frozen Jr. at Desert Stages. Her favorite role to date has been Molly in Annie at Mesa Encore Theatre. She is very honored to be on stage with an adult cast for Chess. FALIN OSSIPINSKY Ensemble Falin is so elated to be returning to the DST stage, last seen here as Cassie in A Chorus Line! Previous credits include Gretchen in Jasper in Deadland (Brelby The- atre Company), Lulu in Cabaret (Spotlight Youth The- ater), and the Ballerina in The Curiouser Nutcracker (Theaterworks). Falin works as a choreographer around the valley, but spends her weekends choreographing and teaching three youth performance troupes at Spotlight Youth Theater. Many thanks to the entire cast and crew, her family, the besties, and Jack. Enjoy! JESSYCA JACOBS Ensemble Jess is so excited to make her DST debut! Some of her favorite roles have been Cinderella (Into the Woods, Chandler Youth Theatre), Heather McNa- mara (Heathers, Chandler Youth Theatre), and Ziggy (Young Frankenstein, Actors Youth Theatre). This is her first adult production and she has had so much fun! Her father, Joe Jacobs, had been incredible to work with, and it’s been an amazing bonding experi- ence. She would like to thank Chris, Ruby, Ken, and all the other amazing people working on this show. She would also like to thank her amazing cast mem- bers for making this such a fun experience!
WHO'S WHO IN THE CAST
JOE JACOBS Ensemble
Honored to to be part of a cast that has so much tal-
ent and knows how to have fun! First time in a long,
long, time being on stage, and I would like to thank
my daughter, Jess, for encouraging me to audition!
As well, thanks to Chris, Ken, Ruby, Ryan and DST for
allowing me to be part of this great production.
BAILEY GORMAN Ensemble
Bailey is thrilled to be back on the DST stage for a
fourth time after A Chorus Line, Carrie the Musical
and their Zoni nominated performance in Jonathan
Larson’s tick, tick...BOOM! as Michael. He was also
seen in Young Frankenstein (Igor) and Hunchback
of Notre Dame (Quasimodo) both at AYT and was
the Operations/Productions and Stage manager for
the theatre from 2017-2020. They would like to thank
Chris, Ken, Ruby, Ryan, and the whole DST team for
this opportunity and his friends, family and fellow cast
members for their support! #ChessSideStoryForLife
KRISTEN ORRAHOOD Ensemble
Kirsten is a graduate of the University of Redlands
('21) with a degree in Psychology and Drama Ther-
apy. She is excited to make her debut performance
at DST in her favorite musical as a member of the
ensemble. When not belting her heart out in per-
formances, she works as a substitute teacher for the
DVUSD. She wants to thank her parents, family, and
friends and you for supporting the show!WHO'S WHO IN THE CAST COURTNEY JACOBS Ensemble Courtney is delighted to be a part of Chess! She has recently been seen as Sister Berthe in The Sound of Music at DST, since moving from Northern California last summer. Past performances include Mamma Mia, Smokey Joe’s Cafe, and The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Courtney has worked as a professional artist, art teacher, piano teacher, and mommy to her two charmingly mischievous children. She would like to thank Chris, Ken, and Ruby for their support, and her husband for putting up with her rehearsal schedule. SAVOY ANTOINETTE Ensemble Savoy is so honored to be a part of her first DST pro- duction! She has been in productions throughout The Valley such as The Hello Girls at Phoenix Theater Company, Parade at Arizona Regional, and Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson at Spotlight Youth Theater. She would like to thank the entire cast, crew, and production team for all the hard work they put in to this show! MARIA BAIN Ensemble Maria has acted in plays, dinner theater, reality TV and commercials. She’s excited to return to Desert Stages for Chess: The Musical. Her last DST produc- tion was Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Nile. Re- cently she’s been in The Present Tense at Starlight Community Theatre and The Manic Monologues at Virtual Theatre Labs. She also enjoys singing at open mic nights. She would like to thank Chris Chávez and his creative team. Follow on Instagram: @Official- MariaBain
WHO'S WHO IN THE CAST KENNEDY CZYZ Ensemble Kennedy is thrilled to be a part of this stellar cast, and would like to thank Chris, Ken, and Ruby for their be- lief and confidence in her. Kennedy (17), is a full time student at Scottsdale Community College graduat- ing this year with her Associates in Art, focusing on Psychology. She plans on attending ASU in the fall to pursue a Bachelors in Women and Gender Studies with a minor in theater. Kennedy’s recent credits in- clude DST’s Bonnie and Clyde (Cumie Barrow), DST’s Carrie: the Musical (Helen), and Godspell: In Concert at Desert Foothills Theater. She would also like to thank the cast and crew for being so kind, welcom- ing, and supportive throughout this process. RAYMERE CARTER Ensemble Raymere is excited to be back on stage after years. He is honored to be part of the production of Chess and is having so much fun working with this talented cast. This experience has inspired him to participate in more plays, musicals, and films in the future. ALEXANDRA PALMATIER Ensemble Alexandra is an Arizona-based actress with a theatre performance degree from Northern Arizona Univer- sity. This is her seventh show here at Desert Stages, and she is so thrilled to be working with so many talented artists. Most recently she was seen as an ensemble member in A Funny thing Happened on the way to the Forum at Mesa Encore Theatre, and a character performer at the Scottsdale Princess Re- sort. She would like to thank Chris for the opportu- nity, and the audience for helping bring live theatre back to the community. Enjoy the show!
WHO'S WHO IN THE CAST MATT SNELL Ensemble Matt is excited to be making his DST debut. Favor- ite roles include Cogsworth in Beauty and the Beast (Zao), Rudolph in Hello, Dolly! (MET), and Durdles in Mystery of Edwin Drood (TTC). Thanks to Chris, Ken, Ruby, Ryan and DST for this amazing opportu- nity. Love & thanks to Amy and Tyler for their love, support, and talking him into trying this acting thing out just a few years ago. TYLER SNELL Ensemble Tyler is excited to be making his debut at DST. Tyler is a 17-year-old junior at Skyline High School. Some of his favorite roles include Kohlenkov in You Can’t Take it With You (PCA), Eddie in 13 (AYT), and Dormouse in Alice in Wonderland (AYT). When he isn't on the stage, Tyler plays the trumpet in Skyline’s marching and honors bands, and loves to play video games. Tyler would like to thank his mom and dad for all their love and support. SALEM STOLWORTHY Ensemble Salem is proud to be a part of their first production at Desert Stages! They have been dancing since the age of two years old, and have been in productions such as How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, Snow Queen with Ballet Arizona, and The Nutcracker at AZDA! They would like to thank their friends and family for their continued support and inspiring their love for the arts!
WHO'S WHO IN THE CREW
CHRIS R. CHÁVEZ Director
Previously at DST, Chris has directed Carrie: The Mu-
sical, A Christmas Story-The Play and Chicago: High
School Edition. Chris serves on the United Colours of
Arizona Theatre board as their Equity, Diversity, and
Inclusion Consultant. He also has had a podcast al-
most five years running called BSP: Believer Skeptic
Podcast (www.BSPodPhx.com). Utmost thanks goes
to Ruby, Ken, Ryan, cast, crew, and everyone else in-
volved in this production!! This production, as always,
is dedicated to my mom. I miss you every day!
KEN GOODENBERGER Music Director
Ken is excited to be back at Desert Stages for his
second show as Music Director. Ken's most recent
show here was Into the Woods, where in addition to
Music Directing, he got to be on stage as the Myste-
rious Man! Ken is having a busy Spring as he is also
MD for Les Miserables at Desert Foothills and Super-
hero Multiferno at Theater Works. Ken will next be
on stage this summer at Theater Works in Children of
Eden, playing the role of Father. Love to all the kids!
RUBY WAGNER Choreographer
Ruby is a choreographer and dance studio owner
working with DST for the first time. Born and trained
in Arizona, she has developed her love of dance over
the past 20 years. She is studio-trained in Ballet, Jazz,
Tap, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre and Contemporary.
Known throughout Arizona for distinguished chore-
ography. A big thank you goes to Chris, Ken, Ryan,
cast and crew for all of their hard work.WHO'S WHO IN THE CREW
RYAN S. BOWMAN Stage Manager
Ryan joins Desert Stages for the first time as the
Stage Manager for Chess. Ryan is a (relatively) re-
cent graduate of Northern Arizona University, having
earned a BS in Theatre Studies after four years of
study and play-making – focusing on stage manage-
ment, directing, and playwriting. Ryan is a founding
member of the “Chomsky School of Business” im-
prov group, performing regularly throughout Flag-
staff. Ryan thanks those closest to them for always
encouraging kindness and compassion.
RICHARD “MICKEY” COURTNEY Costume Designer
Mickey has been costuming for the past 20 years
all around the valley. Here in DST’s Actor’s Café he
feels at home. His most recent costume work was
Bonnie & Clyde here in the Mainstage and Grease at
Fountain Hills Theater. Mickey has been nominated
for a Zoni Award for Costume Design on Arsenic and
Old Lace at Desert Foothills Theater. He is looking
forward to continuing working Scottsdale Desert
Stages Theatre in the Actor’s Café and Mainstage
Cullity Hall. Mickey wants to thank the cast and crew
for trusting in his vision. He wants to thank his wife
Rhea and his kids Becca and Matt for their support
and patience.WHO'S WHO IN THE CREW
BRADY FISCUS Media Designer
Brady is so excited to be media designer for Chess!
Currently a high school junior at Arizona School for
the Arts, Brady has worked both on and offstage
around the valley. Favorite past credits at DST in-
clude lighting Into The Woods, Carrie, The Sound of
Music and Bonnie & Clyde and stage managing tick,
tick...BOOM!, A Chorus Line and Bonnie & Clyde.
Many thanks to Lisa, Ally, and the rest of this amazing
company!
KENSEYE FORT Sound Designer
Ken is a budding audio engineer and recent gradu-
ate of the Conservatory of Recording Arts and Sci-
ences. Ken first tested the musical theatre waters
playing clarinet in pit orchestra in several musical
classics such as Oliver, The Music Man, and South
Pacific. He is very excited to be diving into the the-
atre landscape again.WHO'S WHO IN THE STAFF
ELLEN VERSEN Executive Director
Ellen is thrilled to be the Executive Director at Desert
Stages Theatre. She has worked many years in the
nonprofit and arts sectors, bringing years of theater
leadership, development, and business experience
to the position. Together with the DST team, she
plans to welcome new artists, participants, patrons,
and supporters into the Desert Stages Theatre family
in an effort to sustain this performing arts organiza-
tion for many years to come. Ellen is especially ex-
cited that her husband Walt is now part of the team,
recently named DST's Artistic Director! Ellen grew
up in Pasadena, CA, and has lived in Scottsdale for
26 years. She and Walt have two grown children, Joe
and Emily. The entire family is fond of travel, the arts,
and Jeopardy! Go, Irish!
WALT VERSEN Artistic Director
I have worked with and toured with Queen (w Fred-
die Mercury), Heart, Cheap Trick, Scorpions, Super-
tramp, Ratt, Peter Frampton, Genesis, Phil Collins,
The GoGo's, dada, The Men, Right Said Fred, House
of Lords, Charles and Eddie, The Escape Club, Julian
Lennon, Tower of Power, REO Speedwagon and Ice
Cube. BUT I am as excited to be the new Artistic
Director at Desert Stages as I was for any of those
extraordinary opportunities. Maybe even more. Live
theater - Broadway style theater - has been my life-
long favorite art form. I hope my experience and en-
thusiasm shows through in everything I do at DST.
As for the personal stuff ... just like the Executive
Director above me said!WHO'S WHO IN THE STAFF
ALLY BAUMLIN Production Manager
Ally has been working in live theatre in the Valley
for over a decade. She has been a deck hand, deck
manager, flight captain, stage manager, props mas-
ter, and whatever the occasion calls for. She is ec-
static to be working with everyone here at DST as
Production Manager, helping to bring to life every-
one’s ideas and sparking imagination. As a man once
said, “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible."
LINDA BARTON Box Office Manager
Linda has been the box office manager for the past
10 years. She is also camp coordinator and recently
certified as the Covid Compliance Officer. Linda‘s
family has been celebrating Desert Stages Theatre
magic for over 20 years. Watching children find
their voices, seeing the magic of actors telling sto-
ries through song and dance, is one of life’s greatest
gifts. Linda is honored to be a very small piece of
making that magic happen.
DINA OSINSKI Graphic Designer/Webmaster
Dina is honored to have worked onstage as well as
behind the scenes as the inhouse graphic designer
with Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre since 2008.
She thoroughly enjoys the opportunity to play a
small role in all of the amazing productions that DST
puts on year after year. When she isn't designing
for the theatre she keeps herself very busy as the
Creative Director for Sprouts Farmers Market, wife
to her wonderful husband Jordan and mother to two
beautiful girls, Natalia and Giavana.PHOTOS The cast of DST’s 2022 youth production of Disney's HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL, JR., has al- ready been rehearsing for weeks. After waiting more than two years, we cannot WAIT for this show to be performed at Desert Stages! Thank you to DST friends and family who voted for Desert Stages in the 2022 AZ Foothills Magazine “Best of Our Valley” contest! DST is thrilled and honored to be named Best Children’s Theatre three years in a row!
COMING SOON TO DST
Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre
Youth Production
Book by
DAVID SIMPATICO
Based on a Disney Channel Original Movie Written by
PETER BARSOCCHINI
Songs by
MATTHEW GERRARD & ROBBIE NEVIL
RAY CHAM, GREG CHAM & ANDREW SEELEY
RANDY PETERSON & KEVIN QUINN
ANDY DODD & ADAM WATTS
BRYAN LOUISELLE
DAVID N. LAWRENCE & FAYE GREENBERG
JAMIE HOUSTON
Music Adapted, Arranged and Produced by
BRYAN LOUISELLE
Apr. 8 – 17, 2022COMING SOON TO DST
Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre
Actor's Café Production
WOMEN
5 By Alan Ball
Dr e s s
Directed by
Deborah Lee Hall
Apr. 22 – May 15, 2022COMING SOON TO DST
Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre
Teen Production
Music and Lyrics by Book by
Joe Iconis Joe Tracz
Based on the Novel by
Ned Vizzini
Co-directed by Mark and Lynzee 4man
Music-directed by Mark 4man
Choreographed by Lynzee 4man
BE MORE CHILL
is presented by arrangement with
Concord Theatricals. www.concordtheatricals.com
May 6 – 15, 2022COMING SOON TO DST
Summer Camp
p
2022
Cam
#1
The irrepressible comic strip heroine takes
center stage in one of the world’s
best-loved, Award-winning musicals.
SIGN UP at
desertstages.org/summer-camp
CAMP PRICING:
$475 per child per camp
Call the dst box office to reserve your campers spot with a $100 deposit.
Full payment is due one week prior to the start date of camp session.
After Care available 3-5pm $25.00 Must reserve in advance.
June 6 – 17, 2022COMING SOON TO DST
Summer Camp
p
2022
Cam
#2
Magic Tree House: Dinosaurs before Dark KIDS is an adapta-
tion of the first of Mary Pope Osborne’s award-winning fantasy
adventure books from the Magic Tree House book series, which
has sold more than 100 million copies and is available in more
than 100 countries around the world.
SIGN UP at
desertstages.org/summer-camp
CAMP PRICING:
$475 per child per camp
Call the dst box office to reserve your campers spot with a $100 deposit.
Full payment is due one week prior to the start date of camp session.
After Care available 3-5pm $25.00 Must reserve in advance.
June 20 – July 1, 2022COMING SOON TO DST
Summer Camp
p
2022
Cam
#3
Pooh Bear and all of his friends from the classic
children’s books and animated film band together
to rescue their friend, Christopher Robin.
SIGN UP at
desertstages.org/summer-camp
CAMP PRICING:
$475 per child per camp
Call the dst box office to reserve your campers spot with a $100 deposit.
Full payment is due one week prior to the start date of camp session.
After Care available 3-5pm $25.00 Must reserve in advance.
July 5 – July 15, 2022COMING SOON TO DST
Summer Camp
Ca m p 2022
#4
There’s trouble in River City when a fast-talking salesman
gets his heart stolen by the town librarian in this adaptation
of the Tony Award-winning Broadway classic.
This show has currently been revived on Broadway
and stars Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster!
SIGN UP at
desertstages.org/summer-camp
CAMP PRICING:
$475 per child per camp
Call the dst box office to reserve your campers spot with a $100 deposit.
Full payment is due one week prior to the start date of camp session.
After Care available 3-5pm $25.00 Must reserve in advance.
July 18 – 29, 2022DST
YOUTH
Jan. 7 – 16, 2022 Apr. 8 – 17, 2022 July 1 – 10, 2022
DST
TEEN
Feb. 4 – 13, 2022 May 6 – 15, 2022 July 29 - Aug. 7, 2022
DST
Mar. 4 – 20, 2022 June 3 – 12, 2022
DST
ACTOR’S
Jan.14 – Feb. 13, 2022 Apr. 22 – May 15, 2022 June 10 – July 3, 2022
July 22 – Aug. 14, 2022
2021-2022 SEASONTHANK YOU DONORS
Desert Stages, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit performing arts theatre committed to
offering high-quality entertainment and providing a creative platform that nur-
tures each stage of an actor's development. Overseen by an independent Board
of Directors, DST fulfills its mission by offering programs and services to perform-
ing artists, youth, and the community.
Desert Stages relies on the tax-deductible contributions it receives from friends,
family, and fans to continue offering high quality artistic and educational programs
to residents of and visitors to the Valley of the Sun, especially in the communities of
Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, and Phoenix. We are extremely grateful for the generous
support that enables DST to educate, inspire, and entertain audiences of all ages.
Thank you to the following individuals and organizations who support the mis-
sion of DST. We are proud and honored to call you our Star Donors!
Diamond Star ($10,000+) Steamy Concepts Carpet and
Arizona Commission on the Arts Upholstery Cleaning +
Serena Villarreal *
Gold Star ($5,000 - $9,999) Bill and Anthony Watson *
Anonymous
Arizona Community Foundation Bright Star ($500 - $999)
ScottsdaleArts Anonymous
Small Business Administration Rosemary Altuna *
Bio Chem Exterminating +
Silver Star ($2,500 - $4,999) Brand Names All Direct +
Michael and Nicole Arko * The DelGhiaccio Family *
Marti Anderson In memory of Amanda Zeeb
Desert Diamond Casino West Valley by Johanna Enright
Network for Good Estetica Cosmetic and
Reconstructive Surgery +
Angelique Restivo
Every Kid Swims +
Sprouts Farmers Market
The Falcusan Family *
The Theodore Family
Lisa and Jeremy Figueroa
In memory of Amanda Zeeb
Lucky Star ($1,000 - $2,499)
by the Horvath Family
Tom Chauncey
Chris Jones
In memory of Amanda Zeeb
William P. Kelly
by Ben Einbinder
Dustin, Ondrea, and Sloan Petty
In memory of Amanda Zeeb
Jaine Rao *
by Nancy Hughes
Rusty Wallace Racing +
Kaczmarek and Jojola, PLLC
Shade N Net of Arizona +
In memory of Amanda Zeeb
Sharp Data Entry +
by the Momeyer Family
Smile Reflections +
The Edward M. Polk Family
United Healthcare Provider ServicesTHANK YOU DONORS
The Yampolsky Family * Linda Barton *
Dale Yeoman In memory of Amanda Zeeb
by Jake Bice
Bronze Star ($250 - $499) Patrice Bonnell
Bert and Jill Alanko * Valerie Brady
AmazonSmile Catherine's Inc.
AZ Color Wrap Professionals + In memory of Amanda Zeeb
Sabra Barnett by your Chase Family
Victoria Bellomo * Liza Goerner Crisafi
Laurie Bowden * Laurie Cullity *
Teresa Dixon Discover Vein and Vascular Center +
The Donsker Family * Deborah Doyle and the Skaggs
The Frakes Family Family
The Flyer Guys + Jeff Falcusan
Lynn Golden Family * Olivia and Ronin Feldman
Sara Graf Nilda Figueroa
The Hassler Family * Julie Fosgate
Marc Hatch + In memory of Amanda Zeeb
Homelight by Jonathan Glass
Iron Doors Arizona + The Gottfredson Family
Kendra Scott Jewelers In memory of Amanda Zeeb
The Kiepke Family * by Chris Halbleib
Donna Kidner In memory of Amanda Zeeb
Richard Nadler and Ann Levitas by Todd Kalbac
The Neal Family * Dr. Keith and Kimberlee Haar
Colleen Nelson Kawaii Sushi Deer Valley +
Jennifer Parker In memory of Amanda Zeeb
The Rose Family * by Sharon Kiepke
Renu Shembekar Anita King
Nikki and Charles Stein In memory of Amanda Zeeb
Walter and Ellen Versen * by Michelle Klamm
The Wentworth Family * Michelle Laiss
In memory of Amanda Zeeb In memory of Amanda Zeeb
by Katheryn Zeeb by Sheri and David Kravetz
Kimberly MacDowell
Shining Star ($100 - $249) Gina Magana +
Linda Alba * Anita and Michael Markson
All American Branding Solutions + Sam Markson
Amerizona Products + In memory of Amanda Zeeb
In memory of Amanda Zeeb by Barry and Lori Markson
by Anonymous Michael and Lyndsey Meewes
Debbie Atkinson Dan MeillerTHANK YOU DONORS
Michael and Teri Momeyer by the Arko Family
In memory of Patricia Rhee Jackie Barkworth
by the Momeyer Family In memory of Amanda Zeeb
Evelyn Neis * by Linda Barton
The Nemeth Family * Brian and Natasha Beal +
Gregg and Karen Olson Shelly Bernstein
Sandra Paquet * In memory of Amanda Zeeb
Christy Raykowski by Julie Blakeley
Patricia Rhee Black Box Consulting +
Ilana Roga Rudy Bogojevich
In memory of Amanda Zeeb Jake Brander
by Ilana Roga Janelle Brasen
Ryan Sheade Jim Brewer
In memory of Amanda Zeeb Allan and Linda Breyer
by Mary and Caitlin Simpson Tracy Burns
The Social Universe + Virginia Cardenas
In memory of Amanda Zeeb Mandy Casale
by Adriana Stinnett Max Casale
In memory of Amanda Zeeb Charities Aid Foundation of America
by Team Crego In memory of Amanda Zeeb
Wendy Thompson by Chelsea and Cyril
Jamie Aronson Tyus Jimmy Clark +
Olga and Thomas Versen In memory of Amanda Zeeb
Olga and Thomas Versen by the Clores
In memory of Patricia Rhee Carrie and Neil Codell
by Walt and Ellen Versen Chuck Craig
In memory of Amanda Zeeb Jennifer Dahlstrom
by Ellen and Walt Versen Joyce Dixon
Tamara Wand Kathy Dooley-Watson
Welcome Home AZ + Anthony D'Urso
Michelle Wilbur Thomas Dyson
Curt Wilhem Natalie Eal
Judith Yampolsky Nancy Ellis
In memory of Amanda Zeeb Rebecca Eve
by the Yampolsky Family In memory of Amanda Zeeb
by the Forero Family
Just Because ($1 - $99) In memory of Amanda Zeeb
AK Automotive + by the Glicksman Family
All Stone, Tile and Wood Jennifer Goma
Restoration + Ethan Granger
Rhonda Apodaca In memory of Amanda Zeeb
In memory of Amanda ZeebTHANK YOU DONORS by the Greers Keiran Ringer Mark Hackmann Barbara Rosen Joe Hammer In memory of Amanda Zeeb Lizi Hartstein by Meryl, Rich, and Allie Rose In memory of Amanda Zeeb In memory of Amanda Zeeb by Teresa Henderson by Jan-Erik Saue Daniel Herek Renu Shembekar Diane Hetrick Alice and Don Shardlow Lisa Hoffer Roxie Shields Carol Janoff Julie Shinbaum Michelle Jensen In memory of Amanda Zeeb Marc Kaplan by Arian Shirakhoon Donna Kaufman Kristen and Brad Shroyer Sherry Kaye David Simmons Joseph Kesgomol In memory of Amanda Zeeb Gurusimrin Khalsa by Katy Springer Maya King Lisa Stanisch In memory of Amanda Zeeb In memory of Amanda Zeeb by Leah Klein by Cory Steinbicker Bruce and Kim Kletscher Joy Bingham Strimple In memory of Amanda Zeeb Cheryl Sucato by Elizabeth Klinkenberg Diane Toscano Mike and Laura Krebs Wendy Thompson Kroger Melanie Vigik Mike Langley Jamie Villarreal Rona Lige In memory of Amanda Zeeb In memory of Amanda Zeeb by Miriam Weisberg by Christie Long Jeremy Yampolsky Kimberly MacDowell Jordan Yampolsky Frances Martinez Paul Martinez * Member, Director's Circle Nancy Metzger + iTrade Community Partner Tabi Momeyer Natalie Neal In memory of Amanda Zeeb by Lisa Neppl Sarah Pansing Krisstin Paramanandam Alison Plotnik Lee Pomush Jessica Reed
THANK YOU DONORS MATCHING GIFTS Desert Stages gratefully recognized the following corporations that gener- ously match their employees charitable gifts. American Express UnitedHealthcare CVS Caremark Wells Fargo Honeywell International Charity VOLUNTEER USHERS We would like to thank the following individuals for donating the gift of time to Desert Stages Theatre as volunteer ushers at performances of CHESS THE MUSICAL. David Andreen Janet Love Kathleen Piersons Susan Cotner Greta Lukic Colette Powers Cindy Gross Justin McLeod Jerry Schwartz Nancy Jones Lydia Perez Wendy Smason ANONYMOUS STATEMENT Desert Stages respects the wishes of donors who make gifts and prefer to remain anonymous. These quiet contributions ensure the continuation of the highest quality performing arts programs that serve our artists, audiences, and community. WITH GRATITUDE Every gift to Desert Stages Theatre is greatly appreciated, and every effort is made to list donor information accurately. If we have made an error in list- ing your name or donation amount, please accept our sincere apology. To request a correction, please do not hesitate to call (480) 483-1664. PROUD MEMBER Desert Stages is proud to be a member of the following civic, business, and tourism organizations. Alliance of Arizona Nonprofits Experience Scottsdale American Association of The Giving Group Community Theatres Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce Better Business Bureau Local First Arizona The playbill for Disney's High School Musical Jr. will acknowledge donations made from approximately March 1, 2021, to February 28, 2022.
THANK YOU DONORS
THANK YOU SPONSORS
THANK YOU SPONSORS
2021-2022
FALL
CLASSES
CLASSES ARE AVAILABLE FOR
ALL AGES & DANCE ABILITIES
FALL CLASS SCHEDULE:
Dancers Domain as a studio, was specifically created to
build not only strong dancers but strong & healthy people.
People that gain confidence through our training to ensure
their successes as dancers, performers but most importantly
as productive successful members of society. Our staff takes a
personal interest in all of our dancers no matter how many
classes they are signed up for. We strive on making a personal
connection with everyone in order to ensure all of our dancers
dreams are coming true. Whether it’s becoming a professional
dancer, performer, or just someone who enjoys dance as a past
time. EVERYONE of our students is important to us.
Call or email with any questions you may have for us.
All we want is to watch your Childrens dream come true.
And to be able to experience our dancers successes and
13610 N. Scottsdale Rd. Suite#20
emotional growth makes it all worth while. Scottdale, AZ 85254
(602)971-3323
dancersdomainaz@gmail.com
dancersdomainaz.com
CALL NOW TO RESERVE YOUR DANCERS SPOTNIFTY FIFTY
PHOTOS
REAL ESTATE PHOTOGRAPHY
• AFFORDABLE AND DEPENDABLE
• SER VING THE ENTIRE VALLEY
$2.00 PER MERGED HDR IMAGE
25 IMAGE MINIMUM
JASON K. WALZ
JASON@NIFTYFIFTYPHOTOS.COM
480.331.8074
NIFTYFIFTYPHOTOS.COMTHANK YOU SPONSORS
Time for Dinner and a Show!
Sep-Oct Nov-Dec Jan-Feb
Mar-Apr May Jun-Jul Aug-Sep
Encore Room Limited Engagement
Feb-Mar Aug Nov ‘21 Jul ‘22
Arizona Broadway Theatre (ABT) produces professional not-to-be-missed
musical theatre performances with national and local casts.
623.776.8400 | azbroadway.org
Easy drive from everywhere
Located off Loop 101 and Bell Rd
Free Parking
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