Community Theatre at the NOV 21-23 • 2025
Presents
Miracle on 34th Street, The Musical
Book, Music and Lyrics by MEREDITH WILLSON
Based on the 20th Century Fox Picture Story by Valentine Davies Screenplay by George Seaton
Production Manager FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ
Properties JAMES GRAUSAM
Production Stage Manager MARISSA DEVEAU
Music Director KARA LEIGH
Lighting Designer ELIJAH KLEINBERG
Costume Designers FRANKIE CONFALONE DESIREE DAVENPORT
Director/Choreographer MATTY PRICE
Scenic Designer ASHLEY CUSACK
MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET THE MUSICAL Is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com
Season Sponsors: Circle Subaru
Courtyard by Marriott - Red Bank/Lincroft The Law Firm of Jonathan D’Agostino & Associates
A MESSAGE FROM THE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
I’m always surprised when I hear someone say, “I’ve never seen Miracle on 34th Street.” The original movie premiered in 1947 with Maureen O’Hara and Natalie Wood and is now a staple in the “holiday movie” line up on most cable channels. It was remade in 1994 by renowned director John Hughes with Elizabeth Perkins, Mara Wilson, Dylan McDermott, and Sir Richard Attenborough – and it spawned the “Believe” Christmas campaign Macy’s still uses today.
In the early 1960’s, Broadway composer Meredith Willson was searching for his next musical inspiration, and who better to compose this story of joy, faith, and heart-felt Americana. After his success with The Music Man and The Unsinkable Molly Brown, he set out to transform one of his favorite movies with a pantheon of talent including Norman Jewison as director, Michael Kidd as choreographer, Fred Gwynne and Janis Paige leading parts, and a young Michael Bennett in the chorus. Here’s Love ran for almost a year and it’s a show that almost didn’t happen.
Legend has it Meredith Willson wasn’t convinced that the American social climate was going to accept a musical about a little girl’s belief in Santa Claus – the early 1960’s was rife with the space race, cold war, civil rights and plenty of unrest. He was getting ready to pack the project away and start researching another potential story when he found an article his mother had clipped from a Mason City newspaper in 1899. It said, “I do not agree with these up-to-date, conscientious parents who insist on telling their children only to believe in what they can see or touch. We should be teaching our children to celebrate the spirit of myth. It’s the most beautiful and sweetest myths that ever find a place in rhyme and story… they enchant… and they always will.”
As we enter another holiday season, I hope we all have a chance to take a moment to believe. Believe in each other, our community, and the timeless magic of everyday miracles.
Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Holidays.
Enjoy the show.
James
Managing Artistic Director
Phoenix Productions at the Count Basie Center for the Arts
Phoenix Productions would like to thank our dedicated cast, staff and volunteers that worked so hard to make our Miracle on 34th Street, The Musical show a success.
If you’d like information about auditioning for a future show, please visit our website at: www.PhoenixRedBank.com/auditions
THE CAST
Doris Walker MICHELLE ELAINE LUCEY
Susan Walker ........................................................................................................ELLORA JAIN
Fred Gaily JOSEPH DEMAIO
Kris Kringle ................................................................................................... ANTHONY VIERA
Marvin Shellhammer ....................................................................................... KYLE KENNEDY
R.H. Macy .............................................................................................................. JOE RONGA
Mr. Sawyer .............................................................................................. DENNIS TOLENTINO
Miss Crookshank ..................................................................................... BETHANY MIRANDA
Judge Martin Group .................................................................................... JAMES GRAUSAM
Tammany O’Halloran CASEY OKAMOTO
D.A. Thomas Mara ............................................................................... JOHN PAUL DURAZZO
Alvin RAUL ORTEGA III
Whitey ................................................................................................ JOSEPH DAVID BRYANT
Climber DANIEL CANCEL
Mailman ...........................................................................................................ALEX DUBINSKY
Hendricka ........................................................................................... KAIYA PEARL TEDESCHI
Macy’s Santa ..................................................................................................... GREG WILKINS
Ensemble .............................................................JOSEPH DAVID BRYANT, DANIEL CANCEL, REBECCA CONN, JAVIER COSS, ABIGAIL DALEY, DARCIE DEVIVO, ALEX DUBINSKY, JOHN PAUL DURAZZO, LAUREN FRIEDMAN, BETHANY MIRANDA, JULIA MONSEY, MICHELLE MOUGHAN, CASEY OKAMOTO, RAUL ORTEGA III, TIMMY SANTANA, ISABELLA SISO, DENI SOBOTKA, LINDSAY PAIGE SPITZER, DENNIS TOLENTINO
Youth Ensemble .................................................................... PATRICK ABEL, GABBY MAHER, JULIA NEVE MONTELEONE, NINA CELESTE MONTELEONE, DARIUS PARKER, JOSEPH SERZAN, MARY SERZAN, KAIYA PEARL TEDESCHI
UNDERSTUDIES
For Doris Walker - BETHANY MIRANDA; for Susan Walker - MARY SERZAN; for Fred Gaily - JOSEPH DAVID BRYANT; for Kris Kringle - JOE RONGA; for Marvin Shellhammer - DANIEL CANCEL; for R.H. Macy - CASEY OKAMOTO
THE PRODUCTION TEAM
Production Manager FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ
Director / Choreographer .................................................................................. MATTY PRICE
Music Director ....................................................................................................... KARA LEIGH
Technical Director ..................................................................................... KYLE SANTOPADRE
Technical Specialist .......................................................................TOMÁS ALFONSO TORRES
Scenic Designer / Scenic Charge ................................................................. ASHLEY CUSACK
Lighting Designer ......................................................................................ELIJAH KLEINBERG
Costume Designers ..................................... FRANKIE CONFALONE, DESIREE DAVENPORT
Properties ..................................................................................................... JAMES GRAUSAM
Sound Design ..................................................................................................................... ACIR
Production Stage Manager ........................................................................ MARISSA DEVEAU
Assistant Stage Managers ................................................ PAT MALIWAT, DYLAN SHEPPARD
Assistant Stage Manager (Sound) ................................................ FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ
Assistant Choreographer RACHEL ELIZABETH ROSARIO
Assistant Production Manager KIMBERLY GELFAND
Run Crew STEPHANIE SCHOPPE
Stage Crew AMANDA MARINO, JESSICA PAUL, KYLE SANTOPADRE, TOMÁS ALFONSO TORRES
Costume Crew ...................................... RYANE BONDI, DONA COFFEY, LEXI DAVENPORT, MARION ENNY, STEPHANIE FAZZOLARI, MARY FEOLA, ROSA JUAREZ, STEPHANIE MALEWSKI, ELLEN SHORT, RYAN VELLA
Scenic Crew ........................................................ ZACK BLISS, JESSICA COGAN, JAMES FIN, PHILIP HICKEY, DONNA HUNT, PAT KAY, DANA MALEY, JONATHAN MEHL, AMANDA MUNICE, LISA SIKO
Managing Artistic Director ........................................................................ JAMES GRAUSAM
Special Thanks ......................................COUNT BASIE CENTER MARKETING DEPARTMENT, MARCOS DEJESUS, DIANE DiYANNI, MICHAEL IPPILITO (MARLBORO HIGH SCHOOL MARCHING BAND), JOHN MAUER, JOHN POSADA
THE ORCHESTRA
Conductor/Keyboard ........................................................................................... KARA LEIGH
Bass ANDREW ROSCISZEWSKI
Celeste ............................................................................................................ LIAM FRIEDMAN
Cello 1 ............................................................................................................... PATTY GONSKY
Cello 2 .................................................................................................................. CATY BUTLER
Guitar PAUL HEANEY
Horn ............................................................................................................ TRISH GIANGIULIO
Percussion ............................................................................................... CARMINE FUIMANO
Reed 1 HEIDI PEDERSON
Reed 2........................................................................................................ TRISTAN SHAFRAN
Reed 3.................................................................................................. MICHAEL WITSBERGER
Reed 4............................................................................................................... ASHLEN UDELL
Reed 5....................................................................................................... JEAN ANNE GOULD
Trombone 1 ....................................................................................................... .KYLE JACKIER
Trombone 2 .......................................................................................................HANS MUHLER
Trombone 3 STEVE CARR
Trumpet 1 .......................................................................................................... JOE MOSELLO
Trumpet 2 .......................................................................................................... EVAN JUDSON
Trumpet 3 LAURA NEVILLE
Viola ......................................................................................................... RACHEL O’CONNOR
Violin 1 ...................................................................................................... NICOLE SCORSONE
Violin 2 ...........................................................................................................ALEX OGRODNIK
ABOVE GROUND
TUBS
SEMI IN-GROUND AND IN-GROUND POOLS
PHOENIX PRODUCTIONS OPERATIONS COMMITTEE
SoVonna Day-Goins (Co-Chair)
Sarah Bradley
Jerry Conaty
Natalie Hayes-Scott
Tom Hessman
Nancy Karpf
Joe Wajda (Co-Chair)
Fran Centofante Katz
Maria Maher
James Marhold
Adam Philipson
Izzy Sackowitz
Jarrod Scott
Dennis Tolentino
Fran Turner
Jon Vena
Anthony Viera
Darrell L. Willis
Count Basie Center for the Arts, a not for profit organization
Count Basie Center Executive Committee of the Board
Jeremy Grunin Chairperson
Jerry Conaty Treasurer
Robin Klein Governance Officer
Stuart Alderoty
Mitch Ansell
Alison Banks-Moore
Tom Bernard
Sarah Bradley
Michael Bruno
Heather Burke
Craig Cummings
Stephen Cutler
Maria Maher Co-Vice Chairperson
SoVonna Day-Goins Co-Secretary
Claudia Dulac Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer
Maggie Riker Co-Vice Chairperson
Delisha Grant Co-Secretary
Adam Philipson President & Chief Executive Officer, Ex Officio
Count Basie Center Board of Trustees
Lauren Goldfarb Carlina Jessen
Jason Jurgens
Steve Kaiman
Nancy Karpf
Marshall Knopf
Kathryn Lissy
Mario Monello
Michael Parent
Cathy Pugliese-Sivo
Mark Rohl
Peter T. Roselle
Matthew J. Saker
Dr. Perry Scaranni
Carol Stillwell
Fran Turner
Joe Wajda
Tom Widener
Darrell Lawrence Willis
Kaye Wise
Edward J. Zipprich
SCENES AND MUSICAL NUMBERS
ACT I
“Overture” Orchestra
SCENE 1: A Street in the West 70’s of New York
“Opening – Act I” Chorus
“Big Ca-Lown Balloons” ...................................................................................... Chorus
SCENE 2: Behind Scenes at Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
“Big Ca-Lown Balloons” (cont.)........................................................................... Chorus
SCENE 3: Along the Parade Route
“The Parade” ..................................................................................................... Dancers
“Adeste Fidelis March” ..................................................................................... Dancers
SCENE 4: Doris’ Apartment
“Arm in Arm” ............................................................................................ Susan & Doris
“You Don’t Know” .................................................................................................. Doris
SCENE 5: Macy’s Stockroom
“Plastic Alligator” ........................................................................Shellhammer & Clerks
“To Toy Department” .......................................................................................... Chorus
SCENE 6: Macy’s Toy Department
“Bugles” ................................................................................................. Kris & Hendrika
“Here’s Love!” .................................................................................Kris, Fred & Chorus
SCENE 7: Herald Square, Outside Macy’s
“Here’s Love!” (cont.)......................................................................Kris, Fred & Chorus
SCENE 8: A Playground in Central Park
“Here’s Love!” Tag .................................................................................................. Fred
“My Wish” .................................................................................................. Fred & Susan
SCENE 9: Doris’ Office
“Pinecones and Hollyberries” ............................................. Kris, Doris & Shellhammer
SCENE 10: Fred’s Apartment
“Look, Little Girl” .................................................................................................... Fred
SCENE 11: In the Street Outside
“Look, Little Girl” Reprise Doris
SCENE 12: Mr. Sawyer’s Office
“Pinecones” Reprise — After Doris’ Look Kris & Miss Crookshank
SCENE 13: Macy’s Toy Department
“Expect Things to Happen” Susan & Kris
THERE WILL BE ONE 15 MINUTE INTERMISSION.
The use of any recording device, either audio or video, and the taking of photographs, either with or without flash, is prohibited. Please turn off all electronic devices such as cellular phones, tablets, beepers, and watches. The use of cell phones in the theater is prohibited.
WARNING: THIS PERFORMANCE UTILIZES STROBE LIGHTING.
SCENES AND MUSICAL NUMBERS
ACT II
“Prelude - Act II” Orchestra
SCENE 1: The Chambers of Judge Martin Group
SCENE 2: An Isolation Room at Bellevue
“Pinecones” Reprise Susan & Kris
SCENE 3: Fred’s Apartment
“She Hadda Go Back” .................................................... Fred, Alvin, Whitey & Climber
SCENE 4: A Corridor in the New York State Supreme Court
SCENE 5: The Courtroom
“That Man Over There is Santa Claus” .................................................Macy & Chorus
“My State, My Kansas” ......................... Doris, Macy, Shellhammer, Tammany & Judge
SCENE 6: The Corridor
“Nothing in Common” ........................................................................................... Doris
SCENE 7: The Courtroom
“Case Dismissed” ............................................................................................ Company
SCENE 8: Macy’s Model Living Room Display
“Love Come Take Me” / “Finale” .................................................. Doris and Company
2025/2026 SEASON SPONSORS
Circle Subaru - Joe & Nicole Wajda Courtyard by Marriott - Red Bank/Lincroft
The Law Firm of Jonathan D’Agostino & Associates - Jon & Jade D’Agostino
PHOENIX PRODUCTIONS 2025/2026 SEASON DONORS
RISING STAR LEVEL: $500-$999
Chris Adamo, Joseph Ercolino, John Jackson, Stephanie Malewski, Diane Tresente
PATRON LEVEL: $250-$499
Dennis Tolentino
FAN LEVEL: Up to $249
Dianne C. Asay, In memory of Al Bevacqua, Barbara Saake, Jayne Cybulski, Elizabeth Dean, Judith & William Fraser, Kenneth Groeschel, Gloria Gross, Debra Marsh, Anthony Petrizzo, Carol Petscavage, Donna Pinamonti, Albert Reher
STARS ON PHOENIX’S “WALK OF DREAMS”
Todd Aikens, Andrea Andrews Zawadzky, Matthew Blankley, Grace Brancato, Brothers Commercial Brokerage, The Brown Family, Chloe Carone, Erin O’Malley Chiaravalloti, Sarah Coleman, Liz & Randy Cooper, Sophie Creed The Cullen Family, The D’Agostino Family, Mike & Betty Ann Dalberg, Bobby Davis, Lily DelPresto, In Memory of Mildred & Patrick DeLuca, Tina & Mike DeVito, Denise DiBona DDS, The Dobbs Family, Hudson Eder & Jo Wymer Music Studios, Joe Ercolino & Melvin Polisher, FILCO Red Bank, Immediate Care Medical Walk-In & CEO Sal Cannizzaro, In Memory of Jakob Franke, Bob Fuller, Carmen Gemellaro, Kayla Goins, Jennifer Grasso, James Grausam, Anthony Greco, Keegan Robert Haack, Holly Hankins & Family, Don & Lois Heirman, Thomas K. Hessman, Taylor Nicole Kaplan, Nancy Karpf, Fran Centofante Katz, Sydney & Jason Katz, Zoe & Molly Kenney, George & Kelly Kerrick, The Kinneman Family, The LaRue Family, James, Kathleen & Patrick Marhold, The Martini Family, In Loving Memory of Pat Mercandetti, The Monteleone Family, Jillian Mueller, Scott Naef, The Nodes Family, Don Olah Hair/Wigs, Alexa Origlio, Christine Paccillo, Wayne, Daniel & Marisa Peck, The Pennington Family, Joanne Penrose, Red Oak Mortgage, The Regan Family, Remember Jones, Lily Grace Riddle, Kara Robertelli, Harper Robinson, The Robinson Family, The Scherzo Family, Haley & Chris Schmalbach, Thomas Scove, The Sheftel Family, Carl Sterling Smith, Jack & Joyce Sica, The Stefanelli Family, The Thorner Family, Mary Jo Tort-Bergeron, Carol Wade, The Wagar Family, Ellen & Michael Walsh, Amanda Winter, Lindsay Wood, Chip & Ilda Wood, World Subaru
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
PATRICK ABEL
(Youth Ensemble) is thrilled to be making his Phoenix Productions debut! Previous shows include: The Wizard of Oz (Tough guy, Algonquin Arts Theatre) and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Algonquin Arts Theatre), and will be playing Gingy in Shrek, Jr. at FIS in the spring. A special thanks to Matty, Kara, and Rachel for making this show magical and to my family for all the love, support, and car rides! Happy Holidays!
JOSEPH DAVID BRYANT
(Whitey, Ensemble, u/s Fred Gaily) is thrilled to be spreading some holiday cheer in Miracle on 34th Street The Musical. Recent credits include: Fiddler on the Roof (Motel, Phoenix Productions), Peter and the Starcatcher (Smee, Phoenix Productions), Oklahoma! (Curly, Kelsey Theatre), Joseph… Dreamcoat (Simeon, Algonquin Arts Theatre), and Guys and Dolls (Benny Southstreet, Middletown Arts Center). Joey is grateful for his family, friends, and his girlfriend, Maria, for their endless love and support. Contact: j.bryantnj@gmail.com | IG: @joeydbryant
DANIEL CANCEL
(Climber, Ensemble, u/s Marvin Shellhammer) is thrilled to be working with Phoenix Productions and on the Count Basie stage for the 5th time! He also would like to thank his mother and step dad for always supporting him in his artistic career! Previous productions include: Newsies (Davey), In the Heights (Usnavi), Little Shop of Horrors (Seymour), RENT (Angel), and Kinky Boots (The Angels). He’d also like to shout out his amazing coworkers who come to every show! Love Y’all! Insta: Glitchy.Stitchy
REBECCA CONN (Ensemble)
is blessed to finish her 2025 with this beautiful holiday production. This is her third show with Phoenix, last seen in the ensembles of Fiddler on the Roof and School of Rock. Additional credits include: Annie (Ensemble; Spring Lake Theatre), Pirates of Penzance (Isabel, NENA Productions). She was happy to bring her circus skills to the stage after learning to juggle at sleepaway camp and then becoming a circus instructor for 5 summers. Thank you to Matty, Kara, and Marissa for their hard work and for bringing this wonderful group of people together. Love to Mom
JAVIER COSS (Ensemble)
is excited to be part of this magically incredible production! Some of his previous credits include: Ens. (Sweeney Todd), Carlos/Kiki (Legally Blonde), Pat(rick)/ Ens. (Kinky Boots), Jeter (Footloose), Judah (Joseph…), and Shark Ens. (West Side Story). He loves the magic of storytelling through performance and feels grateful to share this experience with such an outstandingly talented cast and crew. A huge thank you to all friends and family for their constant love & support! @javi_coss_
ABIGAIL DALEY (Ensemble)
is an energetic and determined actress with experience in not just theatre, but also robotics, art, and writing. Her most recent performances include: Clue (Wadsworth, Saint Rose High School) and Snow White (Evil Queen, Ocean Grove Performing Arts Ministry). Abigail loves putting effort into anything creative, especially her performances. She is extremely grateful to be a part of such a comedic and fun musical, and hopes to continue down this path of theatrical expression in the future!
JOSEPH DEMAIO (Fred Gaily)
is excited to be back on the Basie stage with Phoenix Productions! He is a proud graduate of Wagner College with a BA in Theatre/Speech. Recent credits include: Annie (Oliver Warbucks), Mary Poppins (George Banks), Jekyll & Hyde (Dr. Henry Jekyll/Edward Hyde), Guys and Dolls (Nathan Detroit), and Next to Normal (Dan Goodman). He would like to thank this amazing production team for all of their hard work! He would also like to thank his family and friends for their continued love & support!
DARCIE DEVIVO (Ensemble)
is thrilled to be in her first Phoenix production! She is a member of her school’s Jr. Thespian Troupe. Past credits include: The Addams Family Musical: Young@Part (Ancestor), Willy Wonka...Chocolate Factory (Mrs. Beauregard), A Charlie Brown Christmas (Sally) and more. Darcie is also a novice Irish step dancer.
ALEX DUBINSKY
(Mailman, Ensemble) is happy to be back on stage after taking almost a year off. He was last seen as Michal in The Pillowman with Bellarine Theatre Company last November! Past credits include: Oklahoma! (Curly), The Bridges of Madison County (Robert Kincaid), Something Rotten! (Nostradamus), The Wizard of Oz (Uncle Henry/Guard), The Little Mermaid (Pilot/Chef Louis), Into the Woods (Wolf/Rapunzel’s Prince), The Drowsy Chaperone (Man in Chair), Dog Sees God (CB), Cats (Bustopher Jones). Alex is a proud member of The Actor’s Project NYC and has performed Off-Broadway with them twice! Love to my wife, Amanda, and family for their continued support and thanks to Fran and the Phoenix family for the opportunity to return to the stage! Enjoy the show! IG: @alexdubinsky91
JOHN PAUL DURAZZO
(D.A. Thomas Mara, Ensemble) is thrilled to be returning to Phoenix after appearing in the JCS 35th Anniversary Gala (Priest/Guard) and Anything Goes (Sir Evelyn Oakleigh). Recent credits include: A Man of No Importance (Carney, Stone Church Players), Mike and Mindy’s Wild Weekend Jam (Pat, The Players Theatre, NYC), The Shawshank Redemption (Hadley, Villagers Theater), Into the Woods (Narrator/Mysterious Man, MAC Players). John would like to thank his partner Rich, and his family and friends for always being his greatest supporters.
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
LAUREN FRIEDMAN
(Ensemble)
is JUST SO HAPPY to be back on stage with Phoenix! Favorite past credits include: The Music Man (Eulalie Mackecknie Shinn), The Diary of Anne Frank (Edith Frank), A Man of No Importance (Lily Byrne), Fiddler on the Roof (Grandma Tzeitel), Elf The Musical (Deb), The Bridges of Madison County (Marge), and Xanadu (Calliope). When not on stage, Lauren teaches preschool and loves to bake and go to the beach. Much love to Lex, Ani, Sierra, and Liam, and a million thanks to the production staff!
ELLORA JAIN
(Susan Walker)
is excited for her stage debut with Phoenix Productions! Ellora is a 5th grader who loves all things theatre. She also enjoys expressing her creativity through painting, crafting, engineering projects and baking with friends. The Count Basie stage was where she first discovered her love of the theatre at age 6 in Rainbow Fish (Little Fish, Count Basie Center Turner Academy of the Arts, Jr. Productions). Other favorite productions include: Annie Jr. (Molly), Newsies Jr. (Les), and Willy Wonka Jr. (Violet). She thanks Phoenix for this opportunity and the entire cast and crew for making this experience so magical and joyful!
KYLE KENNEDY
(Marvin Shellhammer)
is thrilled to be in his 14th Phoenix Productions show! He was most recently in Fiddler on the Roof this past September as Hershel and a Bottle Dancer. Favorite shows/roles include: The Prom (Sheldon; Phoenix Productions) and Mary Poppins (Northbrook/Park Keeper; Phoenix Productions). Kyle is a high school English teacher at Long Branch High School and an adjunct professor at Montclair State University. Kyle wishes to thank Matty, the entire production team of Miracle on 34th Street The Musical, as well as his friends, and family for their constant love and support.
MICHELLE ELAINE LUCEY (Doris Walker)
is proud to be back at Phoenix, in a charming holiday classic, with the most spectacular cast and creative team. She was last seen as Janet in Algonquin’s Rocky Horror Show. Additional favorite credits include: [Ragtime (Mother), The Addams Family (Alice), Music Man (Marian), School of Rock (Rosalie); Phoenix Productions], Something Rotten! (Bea; MPO), [Spelling Bee (Rona), Man of la Mancha (Aldonza); Curtain Call, FL], The Fantasticks (Luisa; A.C.T., FL), and Chicago (Velma; IRSC). She studied musical theatre at IRSC and enjoys playing guitar, baking, hanging with her pup Hugo, and amateur long-distance running. Happy holidays! Enjoy the show!
GABBY MAHER (Youth Ensemble) is excited to be doing her first show with Phoenix Productions! Past shows include: Finding Nemo Kids (Dory), Aristocats Kids (Toulouse), Jungle Book Kids (Baloo), and Frozen Jr. (Young Elsa) all with the Count Basie Center Turner Academy of the Arts, as well as The Sound of Music (Gretl, Algonquin Arts Theatre). She has been so lucky to work with many amazing mentors who continue to help her grow in the theatrical world. She would like to wish the cast and crew a magical show!
BETHANY MIRANDA
(Miss Crookshank, Ensemble, u/s Doris Walker)
is ecstatic to be returning to the stage with Phoenix Productions! She previously appeared with the company in Ragtime, The Addams Family, and the Jesus Christ Superstar gala. Additional favorite credits include: Matilda (Miss Honey), Something Rotten! (Bea), Grease (Sandy), 42nd Street (Dorothy Brock), and Scrooge (Mrs. Cratchit). Bethany is a director, elementary school educator, and sings in two wedding bands in addition to acting. An endless thank you to Matty, Fran, Kara, Marissa, the entire cast, and everyone who came out to support this beautiful story. Happy Holidays to all!
JULIA MONSEY
(Ensemble)
is back for show #5 at Phoenix after appearing in Ragtime, The Prom, West Side Story, and also having been the assistant choreographer for Mary Poppins. She would like to thank Phoenix for being a home away from home, no matter what. Thank you Matty, as always. Once Miracle… wraps, she will be spending some well earned family time with the Monsey Cult.
JULIA NEVE MONTELEONE
(Youth Ensemble)
is thrilled to be back at Phoenix Productions performing in this holiday classic. She is in 8th grade at St. Leo the Great and loves to dance, sing, play softball, piano, and guitar. Her favorite past credits include: Moana Jr. (Maui, APAA), Seussical Jr. (Gertrude, CBC), Matilda (Hortensia, Premier) and most recently Fiddler on the Roof (Berille, Phoenix). She also performed alongside the legendary Dionne Warwick at Bell Theater and before the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall with APAA. Julia would like to thank her loving family and friends for their support and the amazing cast and crew for making this process magical. Julia is most grateful to share the stage with her younger sister Nina.
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
NINA CELESTE MONTELEONE
(Youth Ensemble)
is 11 years old and thrilled to be performing this heartwarming holiday story. Her favorite past credits include: Seussical (JoJo) and Matilda (Tommy) with Premier, Moana Jr. (Moana, APAA), Wizard of Oz (Lullaby League) and most recently Fiddler on the Roof (Shprintze) with Phoenix Productions. Nina also had the honor to perform alongside the legendary Dionne Warwick at Bell Theater and before the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall with APAA. She thanks her family for always encouraging her, especially her sister Julia. A special thank you to Matty, Kara, and Rachel for bringing this beautiful Christmas tale to life. Break a leg to this talented and loving cast!
MICHELLE MOUGHAN
(Ensemble)
is so excited to continue celebrating the holidays with Phoenix after last month’s spooky production of Evil Dead The Musical (Linda). It’s a joy and honor to participate in her third Phoenix show, having joined this talented and warm community this spring in Mary Poppins (Dance Ensemble). Love to the whole creative team, cast, and crew; thank you for helping this 5’3” dancer’s pipe dream of being a Rockette come true! Thank YOU for supporting the arts. AMDG. insta: @mishmou77
CASEY OKAMOTO
(Tammany O’Halloran, Ensemble, u/s
R.H. Macy)
has worked with Phoenix since his debut with them in 2009 in Thoroughly Modern Millie (Ching Ho). Since then he has worked on over 35 shows with Phoenix, both on and off stage. He would like to thank his girlfriend, family, friends and the cast, crew, and staff for this wonderful opportunity.
RAUL ORTEGA III
(Alvin, Ensemble)
as a former member of all three choirs at Kean University and the Paper Mill Playhouse Broadway Show Choir, Raul has extensive vocal and choral experience. Other notable credits include: Premiere Stage’s Selling Kabul (u/s Taroon/Jawid), Animal Farm (Napoleon), PACT’s In the Heights (Usnavi), Once on This Island (Armand), Joseph...Dreamcoat (Joseph), Beauty and the Beast (Cogsworth). Production credits include: Parade, An Octoroon, Sunday in the Park with George, The Curious Incident..., and The Seagull
DARIUS PARKER (Youth Ensemble)
is thrilled to be part of his second Phoenix production! Audiences may remember him as Young Lola in last season’s Kinky Boots. A proud 7th grader at Indian Hill Elementary School in Holmdel, Darius is excited to share the stage once again with his big brother, Anthony, who is playing Kris Kringle in this production. He loves gaming, hanging out with friends, and listening to music. Darius sends a huge thank you to everyone at Phoenix Productions for welcoming him back, and a special shoutout to his mom for always supporting him, no matter what.
JOE RONGA
(R.H. Macy, u/s Kris Kringle) is beyond thrilled to once again grace the Count Basie stage with Phoenix Productions — because when you’ve done hundreds of shows, you don’t get called “The Shore Favorite” for nothing. Joe made his grand debut back in 1994 in CHESS (Molokov) — a performance that critics (his sister) still talk about to this day. Additional favorite roles include: Hairspray (Edna Turnblad, NJ Premiere) and Spelling Bee (Panch, NJ Premiere). Previous Phoenix credits: Seussical (Horton), The Wizard of Oz (2012, Lion/Zeke), A Christmas Carol (Ghost of Christmas Present), The Full Monty (Reg Willoughby), and Miss Saigon (Soldier). Joe proudly dedicates this performance to one of the best and most supportive friends a guy could ever ask for — Ray, who’s been putting up with his drama since forever.
TIMMY SANTANA (Ensemble)
is thrilled to be returning to the Basie for the 3rd time in Miracle on 34th Street The Musical! Phoenix credits include: Fiddler on the Roof (Russian Dancer) and The Music Man (Teen Dancer). A recent graduate from the AMDA College of the Performing Arts in Los Angeles, California. College credits include: The Adding Machine (Shrdlu), In the Heights (Kevin Rosario), 9 to 5 (Joe), and Into the Woods (The Steward). He would like to thank his family for their love and support on his theater journey. Happy to have worked with Matty, and the cast and crew on this amazing and magical production. Enjoy! IG: @_timmysantana
JOSEPH SERZAN
(Youth Ensemble)
is thrilled to return to the Count Basie stage after appearing in Phoenix’s Mary Poppins (Children’s Ensemble, u/s Michael) earlier this year. Recent credits include: The Wizard of Oz (Barrister, Flying Monkey) at Algonquin Arts Theatre and Matilda (Bruce) with the Howell Middle School South Players. Many thanks to the cast and crew, his mentors and family for all of their support, always.
MARY SERZAN
(Youth Ensemble, u/s Susan Walker) is grateful and excited to make her Phoenix debut in this heartfelt production. Additional credits include: The Wizard of Oz (City Father, Flying Monkey) at Algonquin Arts Theatre and Peter Pan (Lost Boy) at Spring Lake Theatre. Much appreciation for the belief and support of her cast and crew, her mentors and family. Merry Christmas to all! Enjoy the show!
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
ISABELLA SISO
(Ensemble)
is thrilled to be a part of her 4th show with Phoenix Productions! Isabella is a graduate of New York University Tisch School of the Arts where she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drama. Past credits include: Kinky Boots (Ensemble; Phoenix Productions), Mary Poppins (Ensemble/Mary Poppins u/s; Phoenix Productions), West Side Story (Margarita; Phoenix Productions), and Gypsy (L.A.; The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute). Isabella would like to thank her family and friends for their constant support throughout her artistic journey. Break a leg to the whole cast!! @isabella.siso
DENI SOBOTKA
(Ensemble)
is over the moon excited to be back with Phoenix after playing Shaindel in Fiddler on the Roof. So much love and thanks to the production crew and cast of Miracle on 34th Street The Musical. It has been a complete joy from beginning to end rehearsing and performing in this show with you all. Thank you Matty, Kara, Marissa, Fran, and Dylan. Favorite roles include: Bye Bye Birdie (Mae Peterson), My Fair Lady (Mrs. Higgins), Disney’s Mary Poppins (Mrs. Brill), You Can’t Take It With You (Mrs. Kirby) at Spring Lake Theatre. Pippin (Bertha), The Secret Garden (Mrs. Medlock) Nena productions, Fiddler on the Roof (Yente), Scrooge (Mrs. Fezziwig), Into the Woods (Granny/Giant) Premier Theatre, The Wedding Singer (Rosie) and The Music Man (Maude Dunlop). Love to Dave, family, kids and grandkids. Thank you for Supporting Live Theatre!!!
LINDSAY PAIGE SPITZER
(Ensemble)
is thrilled to be getting in the holiday spirit as a Rockette in Miracle…! She is a graduate of MGSA at Rutgers University. Off-stage, Lindsay is a PK-2 music teacher, princess performer, and vocal coach. She was last seen at The Vogel as Shelly/Annie in Evil Dead The Musical! Past credits: Legally Blonde (Brooke Wyndham, Phoenix Productions), Footloose (Rusty, Algonquin Arts Theatre), Fiddler on the Roof (Hodel, AAT), The Little Mermaid (Ariel, Bellarine Theatre), Beautiful (Cynthia Weil, Kelsey Theatre), TL5Y (Cathy, Ferrell Studios), Little Shop of Horrors (Audrey, Cabaret Theatre). Much love to her friends and family! IG: @lili_paigeee
KAIYA PEARL TEDESCHI (Hendricka, Youth Ensemble) is thrilled to be making her Phoenix Productions debut performance! She has been singing since she could talk, performing for family and friends at every gathering. When not putting on a show, she spends time drawing, reading, baking, and playing with her puppy, Pozzy. She previously performed in The Wizard of Oz (Munchkin, Algonquin Arts Theatre).
DENNIS TOLENTINO (Mr. Sawyer, Ensemble) is excited to be back on stage with Phoenix after a 2-year gap! Previous Phoenix credits: In the Heights (Kevin Rosario, 2018), Mamma Mia! (Harry Bright), A Christmas Carol (Cratchit), The Addams Family (Mal Beineke). Dennis has also been Production Stage Manager on multiple Phoenix shows (NJACT Perry Award Winner; The Wizard of Oz). A 1st generation FilipinoAmerican, Dennis grew up in Bloomfield and Old Bridge and now lives in Manalapan. Dennis is a Georgetown University graduate and works for McMaster-Carr Supply. Thank you to his family and friends and the entire cast and crew!
ANTHONY VIERA (Kris Kringle) is thrilled to spread some holiday cheer as your handsome Black Santa in this timeless classic! No stranger to the Count Basie Center stage, he has been performing with Phoenix Productions since he was fifteen, and it will always feel like home. Recent regional credits include: Kinky Boots (Don), RENT (Benny), and The Prom (Mr. Hawkins). His recent production credits include: serving as Production Manager and Assistant Director for Fiddler on the Roof and Production Manager for The Color Purple, a 2025 Perry Award Outstanding Musical nominee. He is especially excited to make his directorial debut at Phoenix next spring with Fats Waller classic Ain’t Misbehavin’. May this show fill your heart with holiday joy—Ho Ho Ho! This, and everything I do, is for you, Nan holiday joy—Ho Ho Ho! This, and everything I do, is for
WHO’S WHO ON THE PRODUCTION TEAM
FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ (Production Manager) is excited to be teaming up again with Matty and this incredible Production Team. Fran has been with Phoenix for almost 30 years, both on stage and behind the scenes. Fran most recently performed as Mrs. Greene in The Prom (Broadway World nomination) and received a Perry Award for her Stage Management work on Kinky Boots. Phoenix Production Management credits include: The Color Purple, West Side Story, The Wizard of Oz, A Christmas Carol, Ragtime, Guys and Dolls, Hair, and School of Rock Thanks to the cast, crew and all of the volunteers for their hard work on this production. Love to Stew, Sydney and Jason.
MATTY PRICE (Director / Choreographer) recently directed/choreographed Mary Poppins last season with Phoenix and is thrilled to be back working with another amazing cast and crew! Additional Phoenix credits include: A Christmas Carol (Choreographer), The Music Man (Choreographer) and The Prom (Barry). He dedicates this show to his new son Simon - a real life Miracle. Love to ALL my family! Merry Christmas and enjoy the show!
FRANKIE CONFALONE (Costume Designer) is thrilled to return to Phoenix, previously seen onstage in Kinky Boots (Harry) and Green Day’s American Idiot (Will) and as Costume Designer for Legally Blonde, RENT and In the Heights! Favorite Costume Designs: Boeing, Boeing (Monmouth HS), Rock of Ages, HAIR, and Little Shop of Horrors (Exit 82 Theatre with partner Desiree Davenport).
ASHLEY CUSACK (Scenic Designer / Scenic Charge) is a freelance designer and artist throughout the tri-state area. She holds her MFA in Set Design from Rutgers’ Mason Gross School of the Arts. Since 2007, Ashley has worked in the Phoenix shop mixing paint, building and dreaming up set pieces to fill the Basie stage. Favorite past Phoenix designs include: Kinky Boots, Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Once on This Island, Elf The Musical, and The Hunchback of Notre Dame. When not designing for the stage, she is busy starting new home projects and keeping up with her 8 year old daughter’s imagination.
MARISSA DEVEAU (Production Stage Manager) is thrilled to make her PSM debut at Phoenix! Stage Management Credits: Kinky Boots, Mary Poppins, Dog Sees God, DC Heroes and Villains Fest. Music Direction Credits: Tuck Everlasting, Mary Poppins, Elf, The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Choreography Credits: Elf, Mary Poppins. Onstage: West Side Story (Anybodys), Mary Poppins (Mary Poppins), Legally Blonde (Kate), Children of Eden (Yonah), Titanic (Kate Mullins), concerts w/ The Philadelphia Orchestra and NY Phil. Marissa holds a B.M. in Music Education from Westminster Choir College and teaches music and theatre throughout NYC and NJ. Thank you for supporting the arts! 143, Jess and teaches music and theatre throughout NYC and NJ.
DESIREE DAVENPORT (Costume Designer) is thrilled to be working on her first production with Phoenix! Favorite past costuming credits include: Legally Blonde, Little Women, Rock of Ages, Spring Awakening, Be More Chill, Hair, & Little Shop of Horrors (Exit 82)many alongside Frankie Confalone. She’s delighted to be collaborating with Frankie again and sends a huge thank you to the entire Phoenix Productions team for such a wonderful and welcoming experience. Break a leg to this amazing cast and crew!
KIMBERLY GELFAND (Assistant Production Manager) is thankful for another opportunity to work with Phoenix, both on-stage and off. She previously worked on the Production Team as Assistant Production Manager for The Music Man and Guys and Dolls, Stage Crew for Once on This Island, and Assistant Properties for RENT. Much gratitude to Fran for the mentorship and support, and James for all he does to make the Phoenix community special. Happy Holidays and enjoy the show!
ELIJAH KLEINBERG (they/them) (Lighting Designer) strives to combine intentional design with compassionate collaboration. This is their first collaboration with Phoenix Productions. Select designer credits: Urinetown (Texas State Uni.), The Nutcracker (Studio 22), Romeo and Juliet (Gallery Players), H&G (William Paterson Uni.). Select Associate credits: Night Side Songs (Philadelphia Theatre Company/ART), The Wind and the Rain (Vineyard Theatre, NYC). Outside of the theatre, Elijah can be found in the ceramics studio, covered in clay dust and glaze. Proudly Queer. kleinbergdesign.com
KARA LEIGH (Music Director)
is a proud and versatile Filipina American Music Director with extensive background in performance and music direction. She is a well-known music director all throughout New Jersey. Her work extends to our neighbors in New York and Pennsylvania. She has been performing and music directing for over 10 years dedicated to sharing the passion and love of both the technical and expressive aspects of music.
PAT MALIWAT (Assistant Stage Manager) was a BA Theatre Arts major in Dramaturgy and Directing from the University of the Philippines, Diliman. She was a Stage Manager in productions such as The Virgin Labfest (Cultural Center of the Philippines, 2019-2020), The Last Five Years and Mula sa Buwan (Barefoot Theatre Collaborative, 2023-2024), Buruguduystunstugudunstuy: Parokya ni Edgar The Musical (Newport World Resorts, 2024), and Into the Woods (Theatre Group Asia, 2025). Another recent work she did as Stage Manager was a mixed-reality theatre production entitled Your Mind, Girls: The First Battleground For Freedom (Barnard College NYC, 2025).
RACHEL ELIZABETH ROSARIO
(Assistant Choreographer) is grateful beyond words to the production team for inviting her into this beautiful journey of telling this story. Her previous credits with Phoenix Productions include: Ragtime, West Side Story, Mary Poppins, and Fiddler on the Roof. She would like to take a moment to thank her grandparents, who believed New York City could become their new home; because of their belief, she is here today. She also would like to thank her mom, dad, Mia, and her fiancé Jordan for their love and support that keeps her going. Proverbs 16:9.
KYLE SANTOPADRE (Technical Director)
has a BA in Theatre with a Design concentration from Rowan University. He is the Assistant Technical Director and Lighting Designer for the Count Basie Center for the Arts. Past scenic designs include: Fiddler on the Roof, West Side Story, In the Heights, Guys and Dolls (Phoenix Productions); Noises Off (Raritan HS); Hello, Dolly! (Capital Productions). Many thanks to a wonderful production team!
WHO’S WHO ON THE PRODUCTION TEAM
DYLAN SHEPPARD (Assistant Stage Manager)
is thrilled to be working on Miracle on 34th Street The Musical. They graduated from Muhlenberg college with a Music and Theater double major. Dylan’s recent ventures include: Fiddler on the Roof (Assistant Stage Manager; Phoenix Productions), I Love You, You’re Perfect Now Change (Assistant Stage Manager; Asbury Park Theater Company), Blue Stockings (Assistant Director; Muhlenberg), The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals (CoDirector; Berg Immersive), and The Music Man (Production Assistant; Phoenix Productions). Dylan is looking to pursue directing professionally and loves learning anything they can about theatre. They are thankful for this opportunity and hope you enjoy the show!
TOMÁS ALFONSO TORRES (Technical Specialist) is excited to be working on his first show here with Phoenix Productions, as the in-house Technical Specialist. Having acquired a bachelors in Theatre Studies and an MA in Theatre, Tomás has dedicated almost every waking moment of his adult life to the art of making art. In his spare time, you can catch him reading classic Hispanic literature, riding his bike around Red Bank, pursuing the local comic book shops, drawing, or spending all his money on sushi. Shout out to Amanda Gillette, Sanda Andrade, and Juan Torres for all the love and support.
JAMES GRAUSAM
(Properties / Managing Artistic Director) has directed several productions for Phoenix at the Count Basie Center for the Arts, including: Fiddler on the Roof, The Full Monty, Miss Saigon, Jesus Christ Superstar, The Who’s Tommy, The 30th Anniversary Gala Concert, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Songs for a New World, Smokey Joe’s Café, Spring Awakening, Elf The Musical, Putting It Together, Evil Dead The Musical, Green Day’s American Idiot, The Music Man, Bat Boy: The Musical, and Kinky Boots. He continues to direct and perform other places as time allows. As always, for Olivia.
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