COMING in MARCH at SHANNONDELL! - … in MARCH at SHANNONDELL! King of Prussia Players Presents ......

COMING in MARCHat SHANNONDELL!

King of Prussia Players Presents

Directed by Dr. Lawrence A. Anderson

AUDITIONS inOctober/November

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July 17, 18, 23, 24, 25Book and Lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire

Music by Jeanine TesoriOriginally produced on Broadway

by DreamWorks Theatricals and Neal Street Productions

Join MCT for our next show:

Bishon is a musical story blender and a romantic songstress. She is as well versed in the riffs of Scott and Zelda as in the literature of Mick and Keith.

Bishon weaves stories of carefee days, foolish nights, disheveled mornings, and unsettled scores, that feel like a peek into her heart’s diary.

Infusing her lyrical style with the ease of pop jangle and an undercurrent of power chord thunder; Bishon serves up a deep dish of passion, intuition, and honesty that

liberates the promise of rock ‘n roll.

www.bishonmusic.com bihi

PresidentDr. Lawrence A. AndersonTerm expires 1/31/16

Vice PresidentTammie ReimerTerm expires 1/31/16

TreasurerLee LongenbergerTerm expires 1/31/16

Recording SecretaryPeg CarterTerm expires 1/31/16

Corresponding SecretaryPatty VolpiTerm expires 1/31/16

Member-At-LargeNora Anne DiLemmoTerm expires 1/31/16

Member-At-LargeClark Van HekkenTerm expires 1/31/16

Member-At-LargeLinda AdvenaTerm expires 1/31/16

Member-At-LargeDenni HerbetkoTerm expires 1/31/17

Member-At-LargeJeff HerbetkoTerm expires 1/31/17

Member-At-LargeEmily SturzTerm expires 1/31/17

New Facility ChairDr. Lawrence A. Anderson

Play ReadingBrittany Kleppinger

Properties ChairPeg Carter

Celebrity RecruitmentPeg Carter

Grant WritingLori McClure

Donations/FundraisingTammie Reimer

House Manager/UshersPatty Volpi

Nora Anne DiLemmo

CostumesAllison Baron

Marketing/PublicitySarah Lemore

Technical EquipmentRichard Jenkins

Web DeveloperTom Blair

Shannondell Theater ManagerScott Cannon

Newsletter EditorClark Van Hekken

Board of Directors 2015

Volunteering [email protected]

The King of Prussia Players Lighting the night since 1956!

2015 Brigadoon

2014 The Mikado

Footloose2013

The Music ManWizard of Oz

The Pajama Game 2012

A Chorus LineFiddler on the RoofPirates of Panzance

2011 Guys and DollsAnything GoesThe King and I

2010 Annie

Meet Me In St. Louis2009-2010

Moon Over BuffaloA Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum

RopeHello Dolly!

2008-2009 Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Oliver! The Yeomen of the Guard

2007-2008 Crazy for You

Triffina and the Queens of Conomor

Guys and Dolls (Not produced)

Oklahoma!A Midsummer Night’s Dream

2006-2007 The Music Man

Rodgers & Hart: A Celebration

Dracula the Musical?Incorruptible

Mack and MabelThe Miracle Worker

Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark (Not Produced)

2005-2006 Arthur Miller’s After the Fall

The Bride Of Brackenloch The Sound Of Music

2004-2005 Rosencrantz and

Guildenstern Are DeadPicasso at the Lapin Agile

Bye Bye Birdie 2003-2004

Friendship and Memories Inherit The Wind

Mixed Doubles and Parentheses

Kiss Me, Kate Some Enchanted Evening

2002-2003 Dancing at Lughnasa

Blithe Spirit Cinderella 2001-2002

The Heiress Play On

Brigadoon 2000-2001Rumors

Hedda Gabler 110 in the Shade

1999-2000Lend Me A Tenor

The Trip to Bountiful Carousel 1998-1999

Murder Room The Crucible

Man of La Mancha 1997-1998

Dangerous Corner Murder in Company

Into the Woods 1996-1997

June Groom 3 One Acts

Camelot 1995-1996

Curious Savage Blood Relations

Mikado (cancelled) 1994-1995

Run for your Wife Cheaters

Nunsense II 1993-1994

City of Angels (Construction Shortened

Our Season) 1992-1993

Chapter Two Pvt. Wars and Lone Star

A Little Night Music 1991-1992

Social Security Dial “M” for Murder

The Drunkard 1990-1991

Olympus on My Mind The Nerd

Little Shop of Horrors 1989-1990

Some Enchanted Evening Night of January 16th Pirates of Penzance

1988-1989 Do Black Patent

Leather Shoes ect The Foreigner

Guys and Dolls

1987-1988 Brighton Beach Memoirs Murder at the Vicarage Once Upon a Mattress

1986-1987 Dracula

Lion in Winter You’re a Good Man,

Charlie Brown 1985-1986

Footlight Frenzy Murder Among Friends

Mame 1984-1985

Tribute Come Back to the 5 and

Dime, Jimmy Dean Side by Side by Sondheim

1983-1984 Deathtrap

Lunch Hour The Sound of Music

1982-1983 Bell, Book and Candle

California Suite Gypsy

1981-1982 Blithe Spirit

Laura South Pacific

1980-1981 Play it Again, Sam

Catch Me If You Can The King and I

1979-1980 Second Time Around

The Moustrap Anything Goes

1978-1979 Cat on a Hot Tin Roof Bullshot Crummond Promises, Promises

1977-1978 Stalag 17

Finishing Touches Fiddler on the Roof

1976-1977 Community of Two

Miss Reardon Drinks a Little Sugar

1975-1976 Forty Carats Night Watch

Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum

1974-1975 Last of the Red Hot Lovers

Born Yesterday Sweet Charity

1973-1974 Butterflies are Free

Monique The Boy Friend

1972-1973 Arsenic and Old Lace

Patterns Camelot 1971-1972 First Fish

Plaza Suite How to Succeed in Business

1970-1971 Wait Until Dark

Harvey Don’t Drink the Water

1969-1970 Angel Street

Marriage Go Round Cactus Flower

1968-1969 Maybe Tuesday

Odd Couple Absence of a Cello

1967-1968 Any Wednesday

Pure as the Driven Snow Barefoot in the Park

1966-1967 Never Too Late Exit the Body

Take Her She’s Mine 1965-1966

The Bachelor’s Baby The Moon is Blue

Letter from a General Mary, Mary 1964-1965

Strange Bedfellows Gentle Hearts and Murder

Third Best Sport 1963-1964

Golden Fleecing Send Me No Flowers Sunday in New York

1962-1963 Love Me Long The Gazebo

Come Blow Your Horn 1961-1962

Rainmaker My Three Angels

Man in the Dog Suit 1960-1961 Suspect

White Sheep of the Family Picnic


The Tender Trap Stalag 17 1958-1959

My Three Angels Janus

Bus Stop 1957-1958

Light Up the Sky Through the Night










www.bishonmusic.combi h i



















Nora Anne DiLemmo










2015 Brigadoon

2014 The Mikado

Footloose2013





2010 Annie



RopeHello Dolly!






















The Heiress Play On










Camelot 1995-1996
















Guys and Dolls


1986-1987 Dracula




Mame 1984-1985



1983-1984 Deathtrap





Laura South Pacific






1977-1978 Stalag 17




































Bus Stop 1957-1958


Become a Benefactor!King of Prussia Players is a 501(c)3 non-profit, educational organization emphasizing the theatrical arts. For half a century our outstanding productions and commitment to education has given us a reputation as a leading cultural institution in the Delaware Valley.

We offer you the opportunity to join us - to help us to make King of Prussia a cultural center and nightlife destination. Your generous contribution will enhance our reputation and yours within the community.

We thank our sponsors - whose generosity makes our efforts possible and helps us to make King of Prussia the first rate community it has become.

Standing Ovation ($500)

Estate of Paul T. Gaskins and Tracy Gaskins Courtney (Executrix)The Gwynn Family

Curtain Call ($250)

Bravo ($100)Tom & Phyllis Blair, Perkiomenville

Great Wall Chinese SchoolHarishkumar R. Patel and Himadri H. PatelGlam Hair Studio / The Herbetko Family

Chorus Line ($50)

Stage Hands (up to $49)We welcome contributions in any amount. Please join others in our community dedicated to enhancing our cultural stature and image across the Delaware Valley.

If you would like to join our Benefactors send your contribution to:

King of Prussia Players Attn: Benefactors Administrator

P.O. Box 75King of Prussia, PA 19406

THANK YOU!

Sandra Church, Lane Bradbury, Jule Styne, Columbia Records producer Goddard Lieberson,and Stephen Sondheim during the recording session of "If Momma Was Married”

Shannondell at Valley Forge

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Dr. Valerie Joyce

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Willow Manor

Peg Carter

Kristen Arbutina

Melanie and Haley Huelsman of “Dance Moms”

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Musical Numbers

ActI

Overture.......................................................................Orchestra

May We Entertain You?.................Baby June and Baby Louise

Some People.........................................................................Rose

Some People (Reprise).........................................................Rose

Small World......................................................Rose and Herbie

Baby June and Her Newsboys...........Baby June and Newsboys

Mr. Goldstone, I Love You...................Rose, Herbie, Ensemble

Little Lamb........................................................................Louise

You’ll Never Get Away From Me....................Rose and Herbie

Dainty June and Her Farmboys....................June and Farmboys

Broadway.....................................................June and Farmboys

If Momma Was Married....................................June and Louise

All I Need is the Girl........................................Tulsa and Louise

Everything’s Coming up Roses...........................................Rose

ActII

Entr’acte.......................................................................Orchestra

Madame Rose’s Toreadorables..............................Louise, Rose,

Hollywood Blondes

Together, Wherever We Go.......................Rose, Herbie, Louise

You Gotta Get a Gimmick..........Mazeppa, Electra, Tessie Tura

Small World (Reprise).........................................................Rose

Let Me Entertain You.......................................................Louise

Rose’s Turn..........................................................................Rose

This is not a pretty musical. There are no ballet dream sequences, no large company numbers, glorious revolutions, cowboys, nuns, ogres, or singing teapots. The music is industrial and forward moving with a lot of brass and lots of drive. Each note that gets belted by Mama Rose is dripping with the sweat and tears of anyone who has ever struggled to follow their dreams. From the moment Ethel Merman (with the subtlety of a freight train) entered the back of The Broadway Theatre on May 21st 1959 and roared the iconic line “Sing out Louise!” the character Mama Rose entered the realm of American mythology. This larger-than-life character has spawned a half-century of love/hate interest in the entity known as the “stage mother.” TV shows such as Dance Moms, Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition, and Toddlers and Tiaras prove that Americans are still enraptured by the spectacle of the “stage mother.” What is it about this musical and “stage mom” phenomenon that makes audiences want to watch?

This question brings me to December of 2013 when I was in early conversations with my now-producer Laura Clattenburg about the possibility of KOPP doing Gypsy in the summer of 2015. I had just been inspired by a lecture that one of my graduate school professors gave on the subject of Gypsy and other musicals that have been based on the lives of real women. She talked about how the stories of the women’s lives were always changed for the purpose of entertainment. It made perfect sense. If anything, musicals are believed to sugar coat and gloss over any form of grittiness or substance. They are considered to be the “chick-flicks” of the entertainment world, but Gypsy seemed different. As I said, this is not a pretty musical. I was wrong. For the sake of decency, I shall refrain from recounting the many horrible things that Mama Rose Thompson Hovick did over the course of her eventful life. If you are interested, I recommend reading Gypsy: A Memoir, American Rose, Stripping Gypsy, Early Havoc, Mama Rose’s Turn, or any of the many other books and articles written about the people featured in this musical.

So is that it? Is the legend of the most notorious “stage mother” not only true, but toned down? Are “stage mothers” and “dance moms” really the freak-show monsters we like to watch who live vicariously through their children, drink martinis, and get into catfights? Not necessarily. During this amazing Gypsy journey, I had the privilege of meeting and interviewing a real life celebrity “stage mother,” Melanie Huelsman and her daughter Haley from Season 2 of Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition and Season 5 of Dance Moms. I was honored to meet a modern day “Mama Rose” to see how the real woman compared to the TV version. I can honestly say that the woman I met in person is one of the kindest and most generous women I have ever met, and is an excellent mother to her daughter, who is also as kind as she is talented.

So there I was with two examples of how portrayals of “stage mothers,” for better or worse hides the true woman out of sight. We want the ugliness, but only to the point where it is entertaining. We don’t want to take responsibility for the ugliness, either. This production of Gypsy does not seek to condemn or redeem Mama Rose or any “stage mother.” Simply put, “Some people… got the dream, yeah, but not the guts.” This musical celebrates the people who go have the “guts” to go after their dreams, and this musical has a lot of “guts.” This is not a pretty musical, but you will love it.

-Christen Mandracchia

Letter from the Director


We offer you the opportunity to join us -to help us to make King of Prussia a cultural center and nightlife destination. Your generous contribution will enhance our reputation and yours within the community.

We thank our sponsors -whose generosity makes our efforts possible and helps us to make King of Prussia the first rate community it has become.



Curtain Call ($250)



Chorus Line ($50)





THANK YOU!




Dr. Valerie Joyce


“Just” Matt

Willow Manor

Peg Carter

Kristen Arbutina





Musical Numbers

Act I

Overture .......................................................................Orchestra

May We Entertain You? .................Baby June and Baby Louise

Some People.........................................................................Rose


Small World ......................................................Rose and Herbie

Baby June and Her Newsboys ........... Baby June and Newsboys




Dainty June and Her Farmboys.................... June and Farmboys

Broadway ..................................................... June and Farmboys

If Momma Was Married ....................................June and Louise


Everything’s Coming up Roses ...........................................Rose

Act II



Hollywood Blondes


You Gotta Get a Gimmick ..........Mazeppa, Electra, Tessie Tura

Small World (Reprise) .........................................................Rose

Let Me Entertain You .......................................................Louise

Rose’s Turn..........................................................................Rose

This is not a pretty musical.There are no ballet dream sequences, no large company numbers, glorious revolutions, cowboys, nuns, ogres, or singing teapots.The music is industrial and forward moving with a lot of brass and lots of drive.Each note that gets belted by Mama Rose is dripping with the sweat and tears of anyone who has ever struggled to follow their dreams.From the moment Ethel Merman (with the subtlety of a freight train) entered the back of The Broadway Theatre on May 21

st1959 and roared the

iconic line “Sing out Louise!” the character Mama Rose entered the realm of American mythology.This larger-than-life character has spawned a half-century of love/hate interest in the entity known as the “stage mother.”TV shows such asDance Moms,Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition, andToddlers and Tiarasprove that Americans are still enraptured by the spectacle of the “stage mother.”What is it about this musical and “stage mom” phenomenon that makes audiences want to watch?

This question brings me to December of 2013 when I was in early conversations with my now-producer Laura Clattenburg about the possibility of KOPP doingGypsyin the summer of 2015.I had just been inspired by a lecture that one of my graduate school professors gave on the subject ofGypsyand other musicals thathave been based on the lives of real women.She talked about how the stories of the women’s lives were always changed for the purpose of entertainment.It made perfect sense.If anything, musicals are believed to sugar coat and gloss over any form of grittiness or substance.They are considered to be the “chick-flicks” of the entertainment world, butGypsyseemed different.As I said, this isnota pretty musical.Iwas wrong.For the sake of decency, I shall refrain from recounting the many horrible things that Mama Rose Thompson Hovick did over the course of her eventful life.If you are interested, I recommend readingGypsy: A Memoir, American Rose, Stripping Gypsy, Early Havoc, Mama Rose’s Turn, or any of the many other books and articles written about the people featured in this musical.

So is that it?Is the legend of the most notorious “stage mother” not only true, but toned down?Are “stagemothers” and “dance moms” really the freak-show monsters we like to watch who live vicariously through their children, drink martinis, and get into catfights?Not necessarily.During this amazingGypsyjourney, I had the privilege of meeting and interviewing a real life celebrity “stage mother,” Melanie Huelsman and her daughter Haley from Season 2 ofAbby’s Ultimate Dance Competitionand Season 5 ofDance Moms.I was honored to meet a modern day “Mama Rose” to see how the real woman compared to the TV version.I can honestly say that the woman I met in person is one of the kindest and most generous women I have ever met, and is an excellent mother to her daughter, who is also as kind as she is talented.

So there I was with two examplesof how portrayals of “stage mothers,” for better or worse hides the true woman out of sight.We want the ugliness, but only to the point where it is entertaining.We don’t want to take responsibility for the ugliness, either.This production ofGypsydoes not seek to condemn or redeem Mama Rose or any “stage mother.”Simply put, “Some people… got the dream, yeah, but not the guts.”This musical celebrates the people who go have the “guts” to go after their dreams, and this musical has a lot of “guts.”This is not a pretty musical, but you will love it.

-ChristenMandracchia


Who’s Who in the Cast

Isabella Yackanicz (Balloon Girl/Ensemble), a 7th grader at Perkiomen Valley West, is thrilled to be in her first show at King of Prussia Players. A few of her more recent shows include Shrek! (Young Fiona) at Montgomery Theater, You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown (Snoopy), at Perk Valley Mid-dle School West, and The Sound of Music (Marta), at Steel River Playhouse. When she’s not acting or singing, you will find Isabella at Dance Depot in Col-legeville as she is passionate about tap, jazz, ballet and lyrical. Isabella loves spending time with her family and friends, and forever is thankful for all their love and support!

Please turn off all cell phones and pagers.

Please, no flash photography.

Videotaping or other video/audio recording is strictly prohibited.

Shannondell is a smoke-free community.


Danny Scott (Herbie) is excited to reprise the role that re-introduced him to Community Theater. Danny first played Herbie at Footlighters Theater in 2010. Since then he’s graced the stage with King of Prussia Players’ Meet Me In St. Louis and The Music Man and the Avongrove Community Theater’s Thoroughly Modern Millie. Saddle Chick, this one’s for you.

Amia Shavaun (Baby Louise) is delighted to once again be performing with the amazing King of Prussia Players and with such a fabulous cast! Singing, acting and dancing since age 3, Amia has performed in 30+ productions in the Delaware Valley and NYC. Favorite roles include Annie in Annie and Tootie in Meet Me in St. Louis. Amia is grateful to Christen, Laura, Brendan, Lauren, and Michael for giving her the opportunity to be in Gypsy. “Thanks to my family for their constant love and support and for fostering my love of theater. This production is dedicated to my Grandpap who was quite an actor himself!”

Michael Smith (Music Director/Conductor) received his music education de-gree from Temple University, and has been a frequent member of the King of Prussia Players’ pit orchestra. He was the music director for Brigadoon in the spring of 2015 and conducted performances of The Pirates of Penzance, The Mikado and Footloose with the Players. He is currently the conductor of the Audubon Symphony Orchestra.

Christin Thomas (June) currently studies Musical Theatre and Dance at West Chester University and she is thrilled to be making her debut in King of Prussia Players production of Gypsy! Being a part of Gypsy has been a fantastic experi-ence for Christin. Throughout this entire process, she has met so many dedicat-ed, talented, and overall outstanding people who continue to amaze her every day. She has loved every second of playing Dainty June. This character means so much to Christin and she is so honored and grateful to portray her. Christin would like to thank the production staff, her family and friends, and her fellow cast mates of Gypsy! Break a leg everyone!

Clark Van Hekken (Pop, Kringelein, Cigar) has appeared in 94 theatrical productions since 1969. This is his 18th show with KoPP, most recently as Jeff Douglas in Brigadoon. Next month you can see him in Dramateurs’ Spamalot. Clark will do his 20th MS City to Shore bicycle ride of 180 miles in October.

Lizzie Watters (Ensemble) is so excited to make her debut with KOPP. She first performed in High School Musical 2 Jr. with Stagecoach Theatre Arts, and UMMS’s production of Cinderella in March. She would like to thank everyone in this great production and her parents for making this all happen.

OrchestraConductor..........................................................................Michael Smith

Violin..........................................................Patricia Sabin, Nick Sontag,

Lesley Katz, Keala Te'Kolste

Viola............................................................................Terry Muhlenberg

Cello....................................................................................Jane Roberts

String Bass......................................................................David Deratzian

Woodwinds...........................................Elisabeth Sibley, Sofie Hoimes,

Donna Higgins, Rebecca Laquidara, Kate Strubinger,

Mindy Danowski, Nora Anne DiLemmo

Trumpet......................John Catino, Scott Anderson, Michael Bromberg

Trombones..........................................................Ed Zeiser, Josy Conklin

French Horn......................................................................Jackie Conway

Percussion........................................................................Mitchell Harris

Piano..............................................................................Eric Muhlenberg

Orchestra

Best wishes to Laura and Keith Clattenburg as they jour-ney into their new adventure, B Sharp Productions. We are profoundly thankful and grateful for their many talents they shared with King of Prussia Players throughout our many years together. We know our paths will cross again as we both pursue our passions in the performing arts community.

Rose................................................. *Cathy Alaimo **Trudy GraboyesLouise..........................................................................Bishon PrushankinJune ................................................................................ Christin ThomasBaby June...........................................................................Portia MurphyBaby Louise ...........................................+Rosa Nardo ++Amia ShavaunHerbie.................................................................................... Danny ScottElectra ...................................................................... Florence Wydra-GatMazeppa........................................................................ Courtney BochesTessie ................................................................................. Alicia AlaimoTulsa.............................................................................Tom MandracchiaL.A. ................................................................................. Quinton RitchieYonkers ............................................................................... Jared PinkamAngie...................................................................................... Ryan LauerUncle Jocko/Webber/Mr. Goldstone ..........................................Roie GatPop/Mr. Kringelein/Cigar ....................................... Clark J. Van HekkenGeorgie/Pastey ...................................................................... Matt DurkinBoy Scout Leader/Bourgeron-Cochon.................................. Brad DaltonSinging Boy Scout ........................................................... Tegerty RitchieRich Man's Son ........................................................ Alexander OskanianBalloon Girl ................................................................Isabella YackaniczClarinet Boy........................................................................Samuel EskinMiss Cratchitt..................................................................... Allison BaronHollywood Blondes ...........................Alysse Cooper, Charlotte Kalilec,

Julie Mandrachia, Georgia Naples,Renee.......................................................................................Zoe MullerChowsie the Dog.................................................................Chloe CooperEnsemble: Claire Jenkins, Sue Howarth, Lizzie Watters, Rebecca Riley, Emily McDonald, Caroline McDonald, Brianna McDonald, Rachel Gat, Hanna Gat, Cecily Ritchie, Zoe Balk, Riley McMenamin, Sam Eskin

*Performances on July 17, 19, and 26** Performances on July 18, 24, and 25+ Performances on July 18, 24, and 25++Performances on July 18, 24, and 26

Cast of Characters














OrchestraConductor.......................................................................... Michael Smith

Violin .......................................................... Patricia Sabin, Nick Sontag,


Viola............................................................................ Terry Muhlenberg

Cello.................................................................................... Jane Roberts

String Bass ......................................................................David Deratzian

Woodwinds ........................................... Elisabeth Sibley, Sofie Hoimes,



Trumpet...................... John Catino, Scott Anderson, Michael Bromberg

Trombones ..........................................................Ed Zeiser, Josy Conklin

French Horn ......................................................................Jackie Conway

Percussion ........................................................................ Mitchell Harris

Piano ..............................................................................Eric Muhlenberg

Orchestra


Rose.................................................*Cathy Alaimo**Trudy GraboyesLouise..........................................................................Bishon PrushankinJune................................................................................Christin ThomasBaby June...........................................................................Portia MurphyBaby Louise...........................................+Rosa Nardo++Amia ShavaunHerbie....................................................................................Danny ScottElectra......................................................................Florence Wydra-GatMazeppa........................................................................Courtney BochesTessie.................................................................................Alicia AlaimoTulsa.............................................................................Tom MandracchiaL.A..................................................................................Quinton RitchieYonkers...............................................................................Jared PinkamAngie......................................................................................Ryan LauerUncle Jocko/Webber/Mr. Goldstone..........................................Roie GatPop/Mr. Kringelein/Cigar.......................................Clark J. Van HekkenGeorgie/Pastey......................................................................Matt DurkinBoyScout Leader/Bourgeron-Cochon..................................Brad DaltonSinging Boy Scout...........................................................Tegerty RitchieRich Man's Son........................................................Alexander OskanianBalloon Girl................................................................Isabella YackaniczClarinet Boy........................................................................Samuel EskinMiss Cratchitt.....................................................................Allison BaronHollywood Blondes...........................Alysse Cooper,Charlotte Kalilec,



Cast of Characters


this fall at Playcrafters once again, where this time she will be losing her clothes all over again as Janet Weiss in The Rocky Horror Show. She would like to thank the team of Gypsy for guiding her through this once in a lifetime experience, as well as her loved ones for supporting her as she chases her passions.

Becca Riley (Ensemble) is delighted to appear in her first show with the Play-ers. She played Dot in 101 Dalmatians and Papa Bear in A Fairy Tale Christmas Carol with the Firebird Theatre. She has very much enjoyed this tremendous learning experience.

Cecily Ritchie (Ensemble) is excited to be joining her brothers on the Players stage for the second time. She is fresh off a run as Cogsworth in Beauty and the Beast Jr. Other roles include The Wicked Witch in Oz; Amaryllis in The Music Man; Kathy Cratchit in Scrooge! The Musical; and Ti Moune in Once On This Island, Jr. Cecily loves music, singing, and making music videos. She also plays the violin. She would like to thank her mom, dad, and brothers for their support (and for keeping a stash of chocolate handy), Lauren, Keith, and Laura, and Christen for this great opportunity!

Quinton Ritchie (L.A./Georgie) Gypsy marks Quinton’s second time on the stage with the Players. Recent appearances include Skip Snip in Little Shop of Horrors; ensemble in Footloose; and General Cartwright in Guys and Dolls. Quinton also plays the sax in several bands and loves to sing. Big thanks to Christen for the opportunity, to Keith and Laura for their support and friendship, to Lauren for doing an awesome job, and to Mom, Dad, Cecily, and Tegerty. He dedicates his performances in memory of his grandfather, who was a big fan of theater.

Tegerty Ritchie (Newsboy) is thrilled to be on this stage with his brother and sister in his first production with the Players. He has been performing in school and Community Theater for seven years and has played several lead roles, in-cluding Tiny Tim in Scrooge! The Musical. Teg also plays the trumpet for his school’s concert and jazz bands. Thank you to Christen for this opportunity; to Lauren for the great choreography; and to Mom, Dad, Cecily, and Quinton for their support.

Carmen Rossi (Stage Manager) is happy to be back with KOPP once again. Carmen has been seen at Footlighters Theater as a director and stage manager for many shows. By day, Carmen is a senior at West Chester University study-ing Health Promotion and working to get into Physician Assistant School to be a PA in Pediatric Trauma, by night the Batman of moving sets. “I want to thank my family and loved ones for all their support. I would also like to thank Tom for talking me into doing “one more show.” Love you all!

Who’s Who in the CastZoe’s past roles include Elizabeth Bennett in Pride and Prejudice; The Opera at the Community Music School, Bastien in Bastien und Bastienne, Mary War-ren in The Crucible at Skippack Playcrafters, and Helen Keller in The Miracle Worker at Steel River Playhouse among others. Zoe’ has trained at the Arden Theatre in Philadelphia. She would like to thank her fellow cast members and wonderful director for giving her the opportunity to once more be on stage.

Portia Murphy (Baby June) is thrilled to participate in her first production with the King of Prussia Players. A dancer of eight years and singer of five, Por-tia studies dance with the Princeton Ballet and voice with Badiene Magaziner in New York City. She also takes musical theatre classes at the Walnut Street Theatre. Portia is very grateful to her mom and dad for their unending support toward her career and homeschooling efforts that make it possible. She also thanks the Players’ director and everyone involved in this great show!

Georgia Naples (Hollywood Blonde) makes her second appearance with KOP Players, the first being The King & I. Her previous experiences include 15 musicals, her favorites being 13, The Musical and Guys & Dolls. She dances at the Rock School West, and has participated in theatre at Stagedoor Manor Summer Camp.

Rosa Nardo (Baby Louise) is excited to reprise her role as Baby Louise. She has played the role before for the prestigious Yale College in New Haven. Rosa has been dancing since the age of 3 and singing since the age of 5. Some of her other roles include Molly in Annie, Baby Elephant in Jungle Book, Flounder in Little Mermaid, Shprintze in Fiddler on the Roof and Sha in Ragtime.

Alexander Oskanian (Newsboy) is new to the King of Prussia and this is his first show. Alexander is 14 and is going to be attending the Wissahickon High School.

Jared Pinkham (Yonkers) is so excited to be in his first KOP production. Jar-ed is going into his sophomore year of high school at Perkiomen Valley High School. Some of Jared’s favorite roles include Bastien in Bastien and Bastienne, Floyd Allen in Dark of the Moon and Ryan Kendal in 8 the Play. Jared would like to thank the director and his cast mates for making this show so much fun!

Bishon Prushankin (Louise) is so grateful to be a part of one of her favorite shows, and to step into the shoes of such an incredible woman, the incomparable Gypsy Rose Lee, who was so much more than a burlesque dancer. Bishon was last seen on the Playcrafters stage as Abigail Williams in The Crucible, and Nina in Vanya/Sonia/Masha/Spike. Her favorite past roles include Ilse in Spring Awak-ening, Emily Webb in Our Town, Sabina in The Skin of Our Teeth, Kitty in The Drowsy Chaperone, Claire in The Breakfast Club, and Bet in Oliver. Catch her


Alicia Alaimo (Tessie Tura) is thrilled to be playing the fabulous Tessie Tura alongside her momma, Cathy Alaimo. Alicia graduated from West Chester Uni-versity in 2013 and since graduation has had several jobs both on and off the stage. She is so thankful for the love and support her family and friends have always shown her. Tessie out... *mic drop*

Cathy Alaimo (Rose) is thrilled to be making her King of Prussia Players debut in Gypsy and sharing the stage with her daughter, Alicia. New to the Greater Philadelphia Area, she has spent the last 25 years doing community theatre in Northeastern PA, both on stage and directing. Favorite roles include Golde in Fiddler on the Roof, the Housekeeper in Man of LaMancha, and Sinclair in Sealed for Freshness. But her most favorite role of all is that of Grandma to her little Snickerdoodle, Cameron. She would like to thank her wonderful husband for all that he has sacrificed so she could live this dream.

Zoe Balk (Ensemble) This is Zoe’s 4th appearance in a show. She was in The Wizard of Oz, The Music Man and Oliver!. She enjoys reading, writing and Doctor Who. Zoe would like to thank her voice teacher Susan Dash.

Allison Baron (Lead Costumer, Miss Cratchitt) is excited to be involved with Gypsy! Previously seen on and off stage, her favorite shows were Wizard of Oz (costumes) and The Producers (ensemble). Special thanks to everyone who helped sew and to her family for not complaining as her many projects con-sumed several rooms of the house!!

Courtney Boches (Mazeppa) has an M.A. in Theatre from Villanova and is a cos-tume designer and theatre teacher. She runs the Firebird Theatre summer workshop program, directing and designing two musicals each summer. Favorite roles include Mary Bailey (It’s A Wonderful Life), Trix the Aviatrix (The Drowsy Chaperone), and Mayzie LaBird (Seussical). www.courtneyboches.com

Laura Clattenburg (Producer) is excited and honored to be working with Christen in her debut as a director in the Community Theater realm. It is a huge undertaking that Christen has proved she can handle, as you can see in her won-derful rendition of Gypsy. Laura has produced many shows with KOPP, her fa-vorites being Annie, The King & I, and The Music Man. She has also performed in Oklahoma!, Joseph, Hello Dolly!, and was overjoyed with the role of Peep Bo in The Mikado. This is Laura’s last production with KOPP as she and her husband Keith are about to embark in their new venture, B Sharp Productions. Stay tuned!

Director ..................................................................Christen MandracchiaAssistant Director..................................................... Brenden KortenhausProducer .......................................................................Laura ClattenburgMusic Director .................................................................. Michael SmithChoreography.............................Brenden Kortenhaus, Lauren McGinnisProduction Assistants..................... Kristen Arbutina, Keith Clattenburg,

Bradley Dalton, Quinton RitchieSet Designer ...........................................................Christen MandracchiaSet Painting/Dressing.............................................................. Julia Salvo

Members of Cast and CrewSound Design .................................................................. Richard JenkinsSound Operators......................................Molly Jenkins, Richard Jenkins Light Design...........................................................Christen MandracchiaLight Operator...........................................................Brittany KleppingerCostumes............................................................................ Allison BaronCostume Assistants ......... Alicia Alaimo, Debra Forman, Amia ShavaunStage Manager ................................................................... Carmen RossiStage Crew...........................................Gigi Garifo, Andrew Kozacheck,

Rob Nolan, Caitlyn RubendallProperties ............................................................. Peg Carter, Julia SalvoPublicity .....................Laura Clattenburg, Janice Jankowski, Patty Volpi Posters / Program Design and Layout..........................Laura Clattenburg Program Assistants.....................................Kristen Arbutina, Patty VolpiPhotography .................................................................... Michele RitchieHouse Manager .......................................................................Patty VolpiShannondell Theater Manager ............................................ Scott CannonBox Office Chair....................................................Nora Anne DiLemmo

Production Team






















Director..................................................................Christen MandracchiaAssistant Director.....................................................Brenden KortenhausProducer.......................................................................Laura ClattenburgMusic Director..................................................................Michael SmithChoreography.............................Brenden Kortenhaus, Lauren McGinnisProduction Assistants.....................Kristen Arbutina, Keith Clattenburg,

Bradley Dalton, Quinton RitchieSet Designer...........................................................Christen MandracchiaSet Painting/Dressing..............................................................Julia Salvo

Members of Cast and CrewSound Design..................................................................Richard JenkinsSound Operators......................................Molly Jenkins, Richard Jenkins Light Design...........................................................Christen MandracchiaLight Operator...........................................................Brittany KleppingerCostumes............................................................................Allison BaronCostume Assistants.........Alicia Alaimo, Debra Forman, Amia ShavaunStage Manager...................................................................Carmen RossiStage Crew...........................................Gigi Garifo, Andrew Kozacheck,

Rob Nolan, Caitlyn RubendallProperties.............................................................Peg Carter, Julia SalvoPublicity.....................Laura Clattenburg, Janice Jankowski, Patty Volpi Posters / Program Design and Layout..........................Laura Clattenburg Program Assistants.....................................Kristen Arbutina, Patty VolpiPhotography....................................................................Michele RitchieHouse Manager.......................................................................Patty VolpiShannondell Theater Manager............................................Scott CannonBox Office Chair....................................................Nora Anne DiLemmo

Production Team


Footloose (2014), Benny in RENT (2014), and Arnold in The Wedding Singer (2014). Thomas has also served as an assistant director for Pope John Paul II High School in Royersford . He is a recent graduate of West Chester University and will be attending Penn Law School in the Fall. He would like to thank Lauren and Brenden for teaching him how to tap and for believing in him.

Julie Mandrachia (Hollywood Blonde) is proud to be a part of The King of Prussia Players. She has been in several other plays and musicals since she was 11 years old, her first play being Les Miserable as Young Cosette. She would like to thank her family for their support and Christen for this opportunity. She hopes to get involved in other plays in the future.

Brianna M. McDonald (Ensemble) is new to the Players. She has enjoyed the opportunity to learn more about Community Theater and make new friends.

Caroline E. McDonald (Ensemble) is happy to make her first debut with the Players. She has enjoyed performing at school and in after school productions. She is excited for this opportunity to participate in this community theater group.

Emily E. McDonald (Ensemble) loves performing on stage. She is excited for this opportunity to be a part of this production.

Lauren McGinnis (Choreographer) is happy to return to the Shannondell the-atre after choreographing her most recent blockbuster Footloose last summer. You may have seen some of Lauren’s work with the Players in their rendition of The Music Man (Fall 2013) and Fiddler on the Roof (Summer 2012). Lauren attends University of the Sciences in Philadelphia for Physical Therapy. She graduated with her Bachelors in Health Science this past May and begins her second year of graduate school in the Fall. Along with balancing the intensity of her studies, Lauren was seen teaching ballet at Upbeat Dance Center, assistant directing and choreographing multiple numbers in her school’s dance company, Motions, and starting her own research program. Lauren also has been busy planning magical trips to Disney World as she is an Independent Contractor with Ears of Experience. Lauren would like to thank her cast for always work-ing so diligently and her production team for being as understanding as possible when it comes to Lauren’s busy schedule. SING OUT LOUISE!

Riley McMenamin (Ensemble) is honored and thrilled to be a part of the Gyp-sy Ensemble, her first musical, and to work with such a wonderful cast and crew. She would like to thank family and friends for their support in all her endeavors!

Zoe Muller (Agnes/Renee) is a young actress who hopes to be acting for the rest of her life. This is Zoe’s first time performing in a show with King of Prus-sia Players and is privileged to be in such a marvelous production. A few of


Brenden Kortenhaus (Assistant Director/Choreographer) is a second-year Theatre and Nonprofit Management student at Villanova University. Brenden received his B.S. in Mathematics and Minor in Theatre from Villanova Univer-sity in May, 2014. At Villanova Theatre, he was Crookfinger Jake in The Three-penny Opera and the Stage Manager for Big Love. As a member of Villanova Student Musical Theatre, some of his favorite shows included Andrew Lip-pa’s The Wild Party (Eddie), The Pajama Game (Joe), The Producers (Scott the Choreographer), Urinetown (Robbie the Stockfish), and Children of Eden (Sto-ryteller). He also directed and choreographed their annual Spring Cabaret in April, 2013. Brenden also works for The Premier Theatre Company in Asbury Park, NJ, having performed and helped produce shows there for the last eight years. Some of his favorite roles include Hairspray (Fender/Assistant Direc-tor/Choreographer), Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Reuben/Featured Dancer/Dance Captain), Fiddler on the Roof (Fyedka/Bottle Dancer/Dance Captain), Hello Dolly! (Ambrose Kemper) and Cabaret (Kit Kat Boy/Dance Captain).

Ryan Lauer (Angie) is very thrilled to be working on his first show with the King of Prussia Players! He is an active member of West Chester University’s Theatre and Dance Department, where he has previously played as “The Clown” in All’s Well That Ends Well and “David” in The Rivals. Ryan is grateful for the talented team putting on Gypsy and admires their collaborative effort.

Christen Mandracchia (Director) revived her Master’s Degree in Theatre from Villanova University where she recently directed The Last Days of Ju-das Iscariot as her thesis. Other Villanova directing credits include selections from Mary Stuart, The Tempest, and Venus in Fur. Gypsy is Christen’s fifth pro-duction with KOPP. She assistant directed Wizard of Oz, and provided critically acclaimed lighting design for Fiddler on the Roof, Chorus Line, and Pajama Game. She was a founding staff member of the drama program at Pope John Paul II High School where she directed How the West Was Done and served in various capacities for Les Miserables, Anything Goes, Beauty and the Beast, and their annual show choir performance. She is the new Assistant Artistic Director and Technical Director of Harriton High School’s Cappie Award winning Theatre Company and is currently stage managing the new play Altar Call in Philadelphia, and stage managing for the Philadelphia Women’s Theatre Festival’s Inaugural Festival in August. She would like to thank her Production Team (a.k.a. “Team Awesome”) and her family for all of their tireless help and support.

Thomas Mandracchia (Tulsa/Dramaturg) has been involved in theater for 7 years, performing in productions at the high school, community, and university levels. Credits include Reverend Shaw in Footloose (2010), Jean Valjean in Les Miserables (2011), Mendel in Fiddler on the Roof (2012), Chuck Cranston in

Who’s Who in the CastRachel Gat (Ensemble) is excited to be on stage with her little sister, mom AND dad. She has performed in several ballets as a dancer at DVDA and has also performed in musicals for Laymen Playmen.

Roie Gat (Uncle Jacko/Mr.Weber/Mr. Goldstone) is excited to be on stage for the first time with his two daughters and wife. His previous performances have been in On Borrowed Time, Five Candles, Communicating Door, and Cab-aret. He would like to thank the cast and crew for their great professionalism and hard work.

Trudy Graboyes (Rose) is thrilled to be recreating the role of Rose here at Shannondell! Trudy last appeared with King of Prussia Players as Mabel in The Pajama Game and as Golde in Fiddler on the Roof. Trudy was nominated for 2014 Broadway World.com best actress award for her portrayal as Fraulein Schneider in Cabaret, the musical and was the recipient of The Subscribers Choice award for her portrayal as Yente the matchmaker in Fiddler on the Roof, from The Ritz-Theater, NJ. Trudy has performed throughout the tri-state area at such theaters as: Walnut St Theater, The Arden Theater, Media Theater (she was comedienne, Wanda Sykes’ understudy for Ms. Hannigan and was cast as Mrs.Greer) Candle-light Theater, Hedgerow Theater, Plays and Players, NY Dinner Theater, and at the Kimmel Center in Tony and Tina’s Wedding as Josephine Vitale, mother of the bride. Trudy is a cabaret singer, and her original cabaret was taken off Broadway to Don’t Tell Mama’s Cabaret Nightclub. Trudy will be performing her two-per-son cabaret here at Shannondell in August.

Suzanne Howarth (Ensemble) Gotta love variety! This time around Sue gets to be a stage mother, hotel guest and aging alcoholic burlesque dancer. In her past lives she’s been Ruth in Pirates of Penzance, Granny in Fiddler, Brenda in Pajama Game and a Moll/Waitress/Tourist in Guys and Dolls. Break a leg all!

Claire Jenkins (Ensemble) is thrilled to be performing with the KOPP again! She has performed in Brigadoon, The Wizard Oz, Fiddler on the Roof, The King and I, The Princess Who Had No Name and Cinderella. She loves to sing and dance! She would like to thank her family and her KOPP family for this won-derful opportunity!

Charlotte Kalilec (Hollywood Blonde) had so much fun being a part of Gypsy 2015! She would like to thank the cast and crew for all of their hard work. Her KOPP shows include Wizard of Oz (Munchkin & featured dancer), Fiddler on the Roof (Bielke), King and I (Royal Child), Annie (Ensemble), Hello Dolly! (Youth Ensemble). Other productions include Beauty and the Beast (Dance Ensemble), Dracula (The Child), Wizard of Oz (Dorothy), and Gypsy (Newsboy).


Alysse Cooper (Hollywood Blonde) is very excited to be in her first King of Prussia Players production, Gypsy, as a Hollywood Blonde. She has been in other plays and musicals including The Princess No Name, Little Mermaid, Jr. and Magic Tree House Knight at Dawn. She is a talented dancer who does ballet, tap, jazz and contemporary. Thank you to Christen and all the others for allowing her to be in this production and to making it a success.

Chloe Cooper (Chowsie) is so excited that she was chosen for the role of Chowsie. Chloe is an uppity Chihuahua rescue from San Diego, named for the Beverly Hills Chihuahua. This is Chloe’s first experience in Community The-ater. She is Alysse’s constant companion and is being trained as a service dog. She does not bark, does not snark, and likes to be held by everyone. Thank to Laura and Trudi for seeing the value in having her in this production as Chowsie and to her back stage dog sitter Andrew.

Bradley Dalton (Boy Scout Leader/Rear of Cow/Production Assistant) is excited to be in the Gypsy cast as well as part of the production team. He’s been in a bevy of shows and can’t wait for everyone to see this show. Thank you, Mom!

Samuel L. Eskin (Newsboy) At seven years young, Sam is making his stage debut with King of Prussia Players. He is excited to be part of such a wonder-fully talented group and is thankful to the director, Christen Mandracchia, and the Clattenburgs for allowing him the opportunity. Sam would like to give a shout out to Clark Van Hekken (a.k.a. Slappy Doo!). In his free time, Sam likes to Geo-cache, do anything Art related and hang with his family and friends. Sam would also like to send hugs and kisses to his “special” friends... YOU know who you ARE!!! Sam would finally like to thank his Grandma, Pop-Pop, Foxy, Cookie and his Mommy for all their love and support!

Matt Durkin (Georgie/Pastey) Matt loves doing stand-up comedy in his spare time and just entertaining people in general. Working with this team and director Mandracchia has been a great time and Matt looks forward to hearing your laughter throughout the show!

Florence Wydra-Gat (Electra) is pleased to be a backstage AND on- stage mom for her two wonderful daughters. Her ‘home’ theater is Playcrafters of Skippack where she has played many roles including being the box office man-ager. Her most recent role was playing Nancy in Oliver! for Laymen Playmen. Next will be Magenta in Rocky Horror for Playcrafters in October.

Hannah Gat (Ensemble) This is Hanna’s first show ever. She is entering first grade at Franconia Elementary and loves her mommy, daddy, and sister who are in the show with her.










































































































Director..................................................................Christen MandracchiaAssistant Director.....................................................Brenden KortenhausProducer.......................................................................Laura ClattenburgMusic Director..................................................................Michael SmithChoreography.............................Brenden Kortenhaus, Lauren McGinnisProduction Assistants.....................Kristen Arbutina, Keith Clattenburg,

Bradley Dalton, Quinton RitchieSet Designer...........................................................Christen MandracchiaSet Painting/Dressing..............................................................Julia Salvo

Members of Cast and CrewSound Design..................................................................Richard JenkinsSound Operators......................................Molly Jenkins, Richard Jenkins Light Design...........................................................Christen MandracchiaLight Operator...........................................................Brittany KleppingerCostumes............................................................................Allison BaronCostume Assistants.........Alicia Alaimo, Debra Forman, Amia ShavaunStage Manager...................................................................Carmen RossiStage Crew...........................................Gigi Garifo, Andrew Kozacheck,

Rob Nolan, Caitlyn RubendallProperties.............................................................Peg Carter, Julia SalvoPublicity.....................Laura Clattenburg, Janice Jankowski, Patty Volpi Posters / Program Design and Layout..........................Laura Clattenburg Program Assistants.....................................Kristen Arbutina, Patty VolpiPhotography....................................................................Michele RitchieHouse Manager.......................................................................Patty VolpiShannondell Theater Manager............................................Scott CannonBox Office Chair....................................................Nora Anne DiLemmo

Production Team






















Director ..................................................................Christen MandracchiaAssistant Director..................................................... Brenden KortenhausProducer .......................................................................Laura ClattenburgMusic Director .................................................................. Michael SmithChoreography.............................Brenden Kortenhaus, Lauren McGinnisProduction Assistants..................... Kristen Arbutina, Keith Clattenburg,

Bradley Dalton, Quinton RitchieSet Designer ...........................................................Christen MandracchiaSet Painting/Dressing.............................................................. Julia Salvo

Members of Cast and CrewSound Design .................................................................. Richard JenkinsSound Operators......................................Molly Jenkins, Richard Jenkins Light Design...........................................................Christen MandracchiaLight Operator...........................................................Brittany KleppingerCostumes............................................................................ Allison BaronCostume Assistants ......... Alicia Alaimo, Debra Forman, Amia ShavaunStage Manager ................................................................... Carmen RossiStage Crew...........................................Gigi Garifo, Andrew Kozacheck,

Rob Nolan, Caitlyn RubendallProperties ............................................................. Peg Carter, Julia SalvoPublicity .....................Laura Clattenburg, Janice Jankowski, Patty Volpi Posters / Program Design and Layout..........................Laura Clattenburg Program Assistants.....................................Kristen Arbutina, Patty VolpiPhotography .................................................................... Michele RitchieHouse Manager .......................................................................Patty VolpiShannondell Theater Manager ............................................ Scott CannonBox Office Chair....................................................Nora Anne DiLemmo

Production Team














OrchestraConductor.......................................................................... Michael Smith

Violin .......................................................... Patricia Sabin, Nick Sontag,


Viola............................................................................ Terry Muhlenberg

Cello.................................................................................... Jane Roberts

String Bass ......................................................................David Deratzian

Woodwinds ........................................... Elisabeth Sibley, Sofie Hoimes,



Trumpet...................... John Catino, Scott Anderson, Michael Bromberg

Trombones ..........................................................Ed Zeiser, Josy Conklin

French Horn ......................................................................Jackie Conway

Percussion ........................................................................ Mitchell Harris

Piano ..............................................................................Eric Muhlenberg

Orchestra


Rose.................................................*Cathy Alaimo**Trudy GraboyesLouise..........................................................................Bishon PrushankinJune................................................................................Christin ThomasBaby June...........................................................................Portia MurphyBaby Louise...........................................+Rosa Nardo++Amia ShavaunHerbie....................................................................................Danny ScottElectra......................................................................Florence Wydra-GatMazeppa........................................................................Courtney BochesTessie.................................................................................Alicia AlaimoTulsa.............................................................................Tom MandracchiaL.A..................................................................................Quinton RitchieYonkers...............................................................................Jared PinkamAngie......................................................................................Ryan LauerUncle Jocko/Webber/Mr. Goldstone..........................................Roie GatPop/Mr. Kringelein/Cigar.......................................Clark J. Van HekkenGeorgie/Pastey......................................................................Matt DurkinBoyScout Leader/Bourgeron-Cochon..................................Brad DaltonSinging Boy Scout...........................................................Tegerty RitchieRich Man's Son........................................................Alexander OskanianBalloon Girl................................................................Isabella YackaniczClarinet Boy........................................................................Samuel EskinMiss Cratchitt.....................................................................Allison BaronHollywood Blondes...........................Alysse Cooper,Charlotte Kalilec,



Cast of Characters














OrchestraConductor..........................................................................Michael Smith

Violin..........................................................Patricia Sabin, Nick Sontag,


Viola............................................................................Terry Muhlenberg

Cello....................................................................................Jane Roberts

String Bass......................................................................David Deratzian

Woodwinds...........................................Elisabeth Sibley, Sofie Hoimes,



Trumpet......................John Catino, Scott Anderson, Michael Bromberg

Trombones..........................................................Ed Zeiser, Josy Conklin

French Horn......................................................................Jackie Conway

Percussion........................................................................Mitchell Harris

Piano..............................................................................Eric Muhlenberg

Orchestra


Rose................................................. *Cathy Alaimo **Trudy GraboyesLouise..........................................................................Bishon PrushankinJune ................................................................................ Christin ThomasBaby June...........................................................................Portia MurphyBaby Louise ...........................................+Rosa Nardo ++Amia ShavaunHerbie.................................................................................... Danny ScottElectra ...................................................................... Florence Wydra-GatMazeppa........................................................................ Courtney BochesTessie ................................................................................. Alicia AlaimoTulsa.............................................................................Tom MandracchiaL.A. ................................................................................. Quinton RitchieYonkers ............................................................................... Jared PinkamAngie...................................................................................... Ryan LauerUncle Jocko/Webber/Mr. Goldstone ..........................................Roie GatPop/Mr. Kringelein/Cigar ....................................... Clark J. Van HekkenGeorgie/Pastey ...................................................................... Matt DurkinBoy Scout Leader/Bourgeron-Cochon.................................. Brad DaltonSinging Boy Scout ........................................................... Tegerty RitchieRich Man's Son ........................................................ Alexander OskanianBalloon Girl ................................................................Isabella YackaniczClarinet Boy........................................................................Samuel EskinMiss Cratchitt..................................................................... Allison BaronHollywood Blondes ...........................Alysse Cooper, Charlotte Kalilec,



Cast of Characters


We offer you the opportunity to join us -to help us to make King of Prussia a cultural center and nightlife destination. Your generous contribution will enhance our reputation and yours within the community.

We thank our sponsors -whose generosity makes our efforts possible and helps us to make King of Prussia the first rate community it has become.



Curtain Call ($250)



Chorus Line ($50)





THANK YOU!




Dr. Valerie Joyce


“Just” Matt

Willow Manor

Peg Carter

Kristen Arbutina





Musical Numbers

Act I

Overture .......................................................................Orchestra

May We Entertain You? .................Baby June and Baby Louise

Some People.........................................................................Rose


Small World ......................................................Rose and Herbie

Baby June and Her Newsboys ........... Baby June and Newsboys




Dainty June and Her Farmboys.................... June and Farmboys

Broadway ..................................................... June and Farmboys

If Momma Was Married ....................................June and Louise


Everything’s Coming up Roses ...........................................Rose

Act II



Hollywood Blondes


You Gotta Get a Gimmick ..........Mazeppa, Electra, Tessie Tura

Small World (Reprise) .........................................................Rose

Let Me Entertain You .......................................................Louise

Rose’s Turn..........................................................................Rose

This is not a pretty musical.There are no ballet dream sequences, no large company numbers, glorious revolutions, cowboys, nuns, ogres, or singing teapots.The music is industrial and forward moving with a lot of brass and lots of drive.Each note that gets belted by Mama Rose is dripping with the sweat and tears of anyone who has ever struggled to follow their dreams.From the moment Ethel Merman (with the subtlety of a freight train) entered the back of The Broadway Theatre on May 21

st1959 and roared the

iconic line “Sing out Louise!” the character Mama Rose entered the realm of American mythology.This larger-than-life character has spawned a half-century of love/hate interest in the entity known as the “stage mother.”TV shows such asDance Moms,Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition, andToddlers and Tiarasprove that Americans are still enraptured by the spectacle of the “stage mother.”What is it about this musical and “stage mom” phenomenon that makes audiences want to watch?

This question brings me to December of 2013 when I was in early conversations with my now-producer Laura Clattenburg about the possibility of KOPP doingGypsyin the summer of 2015.I had just been inspired by a lecture that one of my graduate school professors gave on the subject ofGypsyand other musicals thathave been based on the lives of real women.She talked about how the stories of the women’s lives were always changed for the purpose of entertainment.It made perfect sense.If anything, musicals are believed to sugar coat and gloss over any form of grittiness or substance.They are considered to be the “chick-flicks” of the entertainment world, butGypsyseemed different.As I said, this isnota pretty musical.Iwas wrong.For the sake of decency, I shall refrain from recounting the many horrible things that Mama Rose Thompson Hovick did over the course of her eventful life.If you are interested, I recommend readingGypsy: A Memoir, American Rose, Stripping Gypsy, Early Havoc, Mama Rose’s Turn, or any of the many other books and articles written about the people featured in this musical.

So is that it?Is the legend of the most notorious “stage mother” not only true, but toned down?Are “stagemothers” and “dance moms” really the freak-show monsters we like to watch who live vicariously through their children, drink martinis, and get into catfights?Not necessarily.During this amazingGypsyjourney, I had the privilege of meeting and interviewing a real life celebrity “stage mother,” Melanie Huelsman and her daughter Haley from Season 2 ofAbby’s Ultimate Dance Competitionand Season 5 ofDance Moms.I was honored to meet a modern day “Mama Rose” to see how the real woman compared to the TV version.I can honestly say that the woman I met in person is one of the kindest and most generous women I have ever met, and is an excellent mother to her daughter, who is also as kind as she is talented.

So there I was with two examplesof how portrayals of “stage mothers,” for better or worse hides the true woman out of sight.We want the ugliness, but only to the point where it is entertaining.We don’t want to take responsibility for the ugliness, either.This production ofGypsydoes not seek to condemn or redeem Mama Rose or any “stage mother.”Simply put, “Some people… got the dream, yeah, but not the guts.”This musical celebrates the people who go have the “guts” to go after their dreams, and this musical has a lot of “guts.”This is not a pretty musical, but you will love it.

-ChristenMandracchia



We offer you the opportunity to join us - to help us to make King of Prussia a cultural center and nightlife destination. Your generous contribution will enhance our reputation and yours within the community.

We thank our sponsors - whose generosity makes our efforts possible and helps us to make King of Prussia the first rate community it has become.



Curtain Call ($250)



Chorus Line ($50)





THANK YOU!




Dr. Valerie Joyce


“Just” Matt

Willow Manor

Peg Carter

Kristen Arbutina





Musical Numbers

ActI

Overture.......................................................................Orchestra

May We Entertain You?.................Baby June and Baby Louise

Some People.........................................................................Rose


Small World......................................................Rose and Herbie

Baby June and Her Newsboys...........Baby June and Newsboys




Dainty June and Her Farmboys....................June and Farmboys

Broadway.....................................................June and Farmboys

If Momma Was Married....................................June and Louise


Everything’s Coming up Roses...........................................Rose

ActII



Hollywood Blondes


You Gotta Get a Gimmick..........Mazeppa, Electra, Tessie Tura

Small World (Reprise).........................................................Rose

Let Me Entertain You.......................................................Louise

Rose’s Turn..........................................................................Rose

This is not a pretty musical. There are no ballet dream sequences, no large company numbers, glorious revolutions, cowboys, nuns, ogres, or singing teapots. The music is industrial and forward moving with a lot of brass and lots of drive. Each note that gets belted by Mama Rose is dripping with the sweat and tears of anyone who has ever struggled to follow their dreams. From the moment Ethel Merman (with the subtlety of a freight train) entered the back of The Broadway Theatre on May 21st 1959 and roared the iconic line “Sing out Louise!” the character Mama Rose entered the realm of American mythology. This larger-than-life character has spawned a half-century of love/hate interest in the entity known as the “stage mother.” TV shows such as Dance Moms, Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition, and Toddlers and Tiaras prove that Americans are still enraptured by the spectacle of the “stage mother.” What is it about this musical and “stage mom” phenomenon that makes audiences want to watch?

This question brings me to December of 2013 when I was in early conversations with my now-producer Laura Clattenburg about the possibility of KOPP doing Gypsy in the summer of 2015. I had just been inspired by a lecture that one of my graduate school professors gave on the subject of Gypsy and other musicals that have been based on the lives of real women. She talked about how the stories of the women’s lives were always changed for the purpose of entertainment. It made perfect sense. If anything, musicals are believed to sugar coat and gloss over any form of grittiness or substance. They are considered to be the “chick-flicks” of the entertainment world, but Gypsy seemed different. As I said, this is not a pretty musical. I was wrong. For the sake of decency, I shall refrain from recounting the many horrible things that Mama Rose Thompson Hovick did over the course of her eventful life. If you are interested, I recommend reading Gypsy: A Memoir, American Rose, Stripping Gypsy, Early Havoc, Mama Rose’s Turn, or any of the many other books and articles written about the people featured in this musical.

So is that it? Is the legend of the most notorious “stage mother” not only true, but toned down? Are “stage mothers” and “dance moms” really the freak-show monsters we like to watch who live vicariously through their children, drink martinis, and get into catfights? Not necessarily. During this amazing Gypsy journey, I had the privilege of meeting and interviewing a real life celebrity “stage mother,” Melanie Huelsman and her daughter Haley from Season 2 of Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition and Season 5 of Dance Moms. I was honored to meet a modern day “Mama Rose” to see how the real woman compared to the TV version. I can honestly say that the woman I met in person is one of the kindest and most generous women I have ever met, and is an excellent mother to her daughter, who is also as kind as she is talented.

So there I was with two examples of how portrayals of “stage mothers,” for better or worse hides the true woman out of sight. We want the ugliness, but only to the point where it is entertaining. We don’t want to take responsibility for the ugliness, either. This production of Gypsy does not seek to condemn or redeem Mama Rose or any “stage mother.” Simply put, “Some people… got the dream, yeah, but not the guts.” This musical celebrates the people who go have the “guts” to go after their dreams, and this musical has a lot of “guts.” This is not a pretty musical, but you will love it.

-Christen Mandracchia











www.bishonmusic.combi h i



















Nora Anne DiLemmo










2015 Brigadoon

2014 The Mikado

Footloose2013





2010 Annie



RopeHello Dolly!






















The Heiress Play On










Camelot 1995-1996
















Guys and Dolls


1986-1987 Dracula




Mame 1984-1985



1983-1984 Deathtrap





Laura South Pacific






1977-1978 Stalag 17




































Bus Stop 1957-1958











www.bishonmusic.com bihi



















Nora Anne DiLemmo










2015 Brigadoon

2014 The Mikado

Footloose2013





2010 Annie



RopeHello Dolly!






















The Heiress Play On










Camelot 1995-1996
















Guys and Dolls


1986-1987 Dracula




Mame 1984-1985



1983-1984 Deathtrap





Laura South Pacific






1977-1978 Stalag 17




































Bus Stop 1957-1958







610-277-3122 P610-277-3521 F

www.decmc.org







and responsibility.






610-277-3122 P610-277-3521 F

www.decmc.org







and responsibility.

610.631.2171Fax: 610.631.2650







610.631.2171Fax: 610.631.2650











www.kofpplayers.com





www.kofpplayers.com

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