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ROCK OF AGES

Book by Chris D’Arienzo

Arrangements and Orchestrations by Ethan Popp

Production Managers FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ and AMANDA MUNICE

Scenic Designer KYLE SANTOPADRE

Properties JAMES GRAUSAM

Production Stage Manager PAT MALIWAT

Lighting Designer ZACK BLISS

Technical Specialist TOMÁS ALFONSO TORRES

Choreographer MIA AVENOSO

Costume Designers FRANKIE CONFALONE DESIREE DAVENPORT

Technical Director KYLE SANTOPADRE

Music Director MATTHEW DeMARCO

Director JAMES MARHOLD ROCK OF AGES is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals. www.concordtheatricals.com

Season Sponsors: Circle Subaru

Courtyard by Marriott - Red Bank/Lincroft The Law Firm of Jonathan D’Agostino & Associates

Show Sponsor: Declarations, Inc.

A MESSAGE FROM THE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Here we go again – as the hit 80’s song goes. Another season of amazing stories, top tier local talent, and theatrical magic here at the Count Basie Center. This season we delve into some uniquely American stories, creators, and creations in celebration of our nation’s 250th anniversary, our theater’s 100th, and Phoenix’s 39th season. As you look at the line up you might think, “wait a minute, Pirates is American? I thought it was British.” The latest rendition of the classic British operetta is set in New Orleans with a decidedly American twist. And what’s more American than a modern Disney classic like Frozen? Parade tells the often-overlooked story of Leo Frank accused of murder in 1913 and his sensationalized trial which brought out racial tensions, antisemitism, re-opened old wounds from the not-too-distant Civil War and reminds us that in America big news means big business. Memphis explores the rise of rock and roll and the people who fought for the right to broadcast it on the radio! And, although Matilda comes to us from a British author via the West End, we consider her a classic character with American styled gumption. But first up, and what better way to kick off the season than a lesson in following your dreams, falling in love, and hair metal rock and roll! It doesn’t get any more American than that. Happy semi quincentennial everyone!

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 Rock of Ages 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

Drew Boley .......................................................................................................... JOEY MAHER

Sherrie Christian RILEY MARTIN

Lonny Barnett .........................................................................................................BILLY MILLS

Dennis Dupree .................................................................................................. JOHN GRIFFIN

Regina Koontz................................................................................................. REAGAN WHITE

Hertz Klinemann ANTHONY VIERA

Franz Klinemann ............................................................................................ DANIEL CANCEL

Justice Charlier .................................................................................................. ERICKA DAVIS

Stacee Jaxx MARC GOLDBERG

Father / Mayor / DJ / Producer ............................................................. DENNIS TOLENTINO

Mother ....................................................................................................................TARA HINES

Protestor #1 ..................................................................................................... ALEXA WESSEL

Protestor #2 JESSICA AMBER

Constance Sack ...............................................................................MARISA JEAN GIACHETTI

Ja’Keith Gill ......................................................................................ARIEL J SANCHEZ-BELLO

Waitress #1 LINDSAY PAIGE SPITZER

Joey Primo ....................................................................................................... HUDSON EDER

Record Producers ...................................................................KYLE KENNEDY, NASIR ROPER

Venus Dancers................................................................... JESS BENNETT, ELIZABETH BERA, JANNETTE (JSA) FISHER, JULIET HOUNSELL, TIFFANY QUINBY, GABRIEL ANGEL VALLE

Ensemble ............................................................................ JESSICA AMBER, HUDSON EDER, MARISA JEAN GIACHETTI, TARA HINES, KYLE KENNEDY, NASIR ROPER, JESSE SAMAY, ARIEL J SANCHEZ-BELLO, LINDSAY PAIGE SPITZER, DENNIS TOLENTINO, ALEXA WESSEL

UNDERSTUDIES

For Sherrie: JULIET HOUNSELL, for Justice: TARA HINES, for Regina: MARISA JEAN GIACHETTI. for Dennis, Stacee, & Ja’Keith: DENNIS TOLENTINO.

VENUS DANCER SWINGS: JESSICA AMBER, ALEXA WESSEL

DANCE CAPTAINS: JANNETTE (JSA) FISHER, TIFFANY QUINBY

THE PRODUCTION TEAM

Production Managers FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ & AMANDA MUNICE

Director........................................................................................................ JAMES MARHOLD

Choreographer................................................................................................... MIA AVENOSO

Music Director ....................................................................................... MATTHEW DeMARCO

Technical Director / Scenic Designer ....................................................... KYLE SANTOPADRE

Technical Specialist ......................................................................TOMÁS ALFONSO TORRES

Lighting Designer ................................................................................................... ZACK BLISS

Costume Designers FRANKIE CONFALONE, DESIREE DAVENPORT

Properties JAMES GRAUSAM

Sound Design ZACK TENETY (from ACIR), FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ

Scenic Charge ................................................................................................ ASHLEY CUSACK

Production Stage Manager ................................................................................ PAT MALIWAT

Assistant Stage Manager ......................................................................................... LIZ ZABAT

Production Interns ............................................................ AILEEN ESPINO, VINCENT MANN

Production Assistant (Sound) ................................................................. MARIANNA RIBEIRO

Stage Crew ........................................................................... NOREEN DeCARLO, JO WYMER

Costume Run Crew LEXI DAVENPORT

Costume Assistant ALYSSA (ROCKY) PERRICONE

Audition Monitors MANNY JEAN-PIERRE, STEPHANIE SCHOPPE, DYLAN SHEPPARD, DENNIS TOLENTINO, JO WYMER

Managing Artistic Director ......................................................................... JAMES GRAUSAM

Special Thanks ......................................COUNT BASIE CENTER MARKETING DEPARTMENT, TOM HESSMAN, HAHN FILMS, JOHN POSADA

THE BAND

Conductor/Keyboards MATTHEW DeMARCO

Guitar 1 JIMMY FARKAS

Guitar 2 ZACH SICHERMAN

Bass ...................................................................................................ANDREW ROSCISZEWSKI

Drums ................................................................................................. CARMEN MATTARAZZO

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

Craig Cummings

Stephen Cutler

Shawn Emamjomeh

Erica Saldivar Garcia

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

Kara Kopac

Kathryn Lissy

Mario Monello

Michael Parent

Cathy Pugliese-Sivo

Mark Rohl

Peter T. Roselle

Evan Zimmerman

Matthew J. Saker

Dr. Perry Scaranni

Carol Stillwell

Fran Turner

Joe Wajda

Tom Widener

Darrell Lawrence Willis

Edward J. Zipprich

MUSICAL NUMBERS

ACT I

“Cum On Feel The Noize” .......................................................................... Lonny, Ensemble

“Just Like Paradise” ............................................... Lonny, Justice, Dennis, Drew, Ensemble

“Nothin’ But A Good Time”................................................ Drew, Lonny, Dennis, Ensemble

“Sister Christian” ...................................... Lonny, Father, Mother, Sherrie, Drew, Ensemble

“We Built This City” ............................................................. Regina, Hertz, Franz, Ensemble

“Too Much Time On My Hands” .................................... Dennis, Lonny, Drew, Hertz, Franz, Mayor, Regina, Stacee, Groupies

“Heaven” ......................................................................................................................... Drew

“I Wanna Rock” ............................................................................................. Drew, Ensemble

“Heaven (Reprise)” ......................................................................................................... Drew

“We’re Not Gonna Take It” ...................................................................... Regina, Ensemble

“Heaven / More Than Words / To Be With You”...... Drew, Sherrie, Waitress #1, Ensemble

“Waiting For a Girl Like You” ............................................Drew, Sherrie, Stacee, Ensemble

“Wanted Dead or Alive” .............................................................. Stacee, Sherrie, Ensemble

“I Want to Know What Love Is” .......................................Stacee, Sherrie, Drew, Ensemble

“Cum On Feel The Noize / We’re Not Gonna Take It (Reprise)” ....... Stacee, Dennis, Sherrie, Regina, Drew, Ja’Keith, Ensemble

“Harden My Heart / Shadows of the Night” Sherrie, Justice, Ensemble

“Here I Go Again” Sherrie, Drew, Stacee, Dennis, Lonny, Regina, Franz, Ensemble

THERE WILL BE ONE 15 MINUTE INTERMISSION.

ACT II

“The Final Countdown” ............................... Dennis, Lonny, Hertz, Franz, Regina, Ensemble

“Any Way You Want It / I Wanna Rock (Reprise)” ......... Justice, Drew, Ja’Keith, Ensemble

“We’re Not Gonna Take It (Reprise)” ...................................................... Regina, Ensemble

“High Enough” .................................................................................Sherrie, Drew, Ensemble

“I Hate Myself For Loving You / Heat of the Moment” ......... Sherrie, Stacee, Drew, Ensemble

“Hit Me With Your Best Shot” ....................................................... Franz, Regina, Ensemble

“Can’t Fight This Feeling”............................................................. Lonny, Dennis, Ensemble

“Every Rose Has Its Thorn” ....................................... Justice, Sherrie, Drew, Franz, Regina, Hertz, Dennis, Lonny, Stacee, Ensemble

“Keep on Lovin’ You” .................................................................................................... Hertz

“Oh Sherrie” ....................................................................................Drew, Sherrie, Ensemble

“The Search Is Over” .......................................................................Drew, Sherrie, Ensemble

“Renegade” .................................................................................................Stacee, Ensemble

“Don’t Stop Believin’” ............................................................................................. Company

WARNING: THIS PERFORMANCE UTILIZES STROBE LIGHTING AND THEATRICAL HAZE. STRONG LANGUAGE AND ADULT CONTENT.

THE USE OF ANY RECORDING DEVICE, EITHER AUDIO OR VIDEO, AND THE TAKING OF PHOTOGRAPHS, EITHER WITH OR WITHOUT FLASH, IS PROHIBITED.

2026/2027 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

SHOW SPONSOR

Declarations, Inc. - James Marhold

DONORS

ANGEL LEVEL: $1,000-$1,999

Joseph Ercolino

RISING STAR LEVEL: $500-$999

Chris Adamo, John Jackson, Stephanie Malewski, Diane Tresente

PATRON LEVEL: $250-$499

Dennis Tolentino

FAN LEVEL: Up to $249

Dianne C. Asay, Joyce Barnett, In memory of Al Bevacqua, Jayne Cybulski, Elizabeth Dean, Judith & William Fraser, Kenneth Groeschel, Gloria Gross, Lorraine Lawson, Debra Marsh, Leah Moskowitz, Anthony Petrizzo, Carol Petscavage, Donna Pinamonti, Albert Reher, Barbara Saake

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

JESSICA AMBER (Protestor #2, Ensemble, Venus Dancer Swing)

is so excited to be back at Phoenix Productions for her third show! She is a junior at DeSales University where she is a Musical Theatre and Dance major. Jessica’s credits include: Elf (Ensemble; Phoenix Productions), Les Misérables (Cosette; Middletown High School North), The Prom (Ensemble, u/s Emma; Phoenix Productions), Singin’ in the Rain (Ensemble, u/s Lina Lamont; DeSales University Act 1), Pippin (Leading Player; Pegasus Productions), 9 to 5: The Musical (Kathy; DeSales University Act 1). Thank you for supporting the arts and rock on!

JESS BENNETT (Venus Dancer) is thrilled to be returning to the world of Rock of Ages! Previous credits include Rock of Ages (Waitress #1, Lead Venus Dancer; Brookdale Community College). Outside of theatre, she has appeared in several short films and feature projects and toured across the East Coast as part of the RockNRoll Chorus. Jess recently graduated summa cum laude from Montclair State University and will begin her Master’s this fall. She thanks her family, friends, and castmates for their support. Rock on!

ELIZABETH BERA (Venus Dancer)

is very excited to be a part of this production. She is going into her sophomore year at Rider University, as a BFA musical theatre major. Her past credits include: Anastasia (Anya; Broadway Theatre of Pitman), Sweeney Todd (Johanna), and Footloose (Wendy Jo). She would like to thank her friends and family, especially her mom, dad, and sister, Abby, for their continued love and support! IG: @elizabeth.grace.bera

DANIEL CANCEL (Franz Klinemann) is thrilled to step into the role of Franz. Daniel is a BFA graduate from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, CA. He would like to thank his mother and stepdad for always supporting his dreams and passions. Love you guys! You may have seen Daniel previously on the Basie stage in Fiddler on the Roof (Fiddler) and RENT (Angel). He has also performed in Little Shop of Horrors (Seymour), Newsies: The Musical (Davey), and Xanadu (Sonny). IG: Glitchy.Stitchy

ERICKA DAVIS (Justice Charlier)

is a dynamic performer, vocalist, and creative artist known for her powerful stage presence and soulful voice. A seasoned singer, she regularly performs at churches, weddings, and special events, bringing passion and authenticity to every performance. Her recent theatre credits include Legally Blonde (Paulette). Additional credits include: If/Then (Kate), RENT (Joanne), Memphis (Felicia Farrell), Sweet Charity (Helene), Into the Woods (Cinderella’s Stepmother), and Hairspray (Lead Dynamite). Ericka is also the founder of E Lé Couture, where she combines her love of fashion and creativity. She is passionate about storytelling, artistry, and inspiring audiences through every performance.

HUDSON EDER (Joey Primo, Ensemble) is incredibly thrilled to be in his TWELFTH show with Phoenix Productions. Past credits include: Evita, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Joseph...Dreamcoat, Young Frankenstein, Nice Work If You Can Get It, Every Wednesday Night, Evil Dead: The Musical (2022 & 2023), Guys and Dolls, Ragtime, and Fiddler on the Roof. Hudson has also done background work for TV shows such as Power: Book 3 - Raising Kanan (STARZ) and City on Fire (Apple TV+). Hudson would like to thank his friends, family, mentors, and fellow castmates for their continued support.

JANNETTE (JSA) FISHER

(Venus Dancer, Dance Captain) is thrilled to be in Phoenix’s production of Rock Of Ages as a Venus Dancer. This will be her 8th production with the company with other credits including: The Color Purple (Squeak), Kinky Boots (Lauren), and Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Charlaine). As a client with Kreative Agency, she hopes to explore and expand on her skill set and opportunities. She is so honored to be in this show with some of the most talented cast & crew she has worked with.

MARISA JEAN GIACHETTI

(Constance Sack, Ensemble, u/s Regina) is ready to rock the Basie stage again after appearing in Phoenix’s Fiddler on the Roof (Grandma Tzeitel). Credits: Label•less (Marisa/Company; Off-Broadway at Theatre Row; tour), Disposable Bodies (Sam; The Tank NYC), It’s About Time (Abbie, Queens Theatre), Through the Sunken Lands (Artemis; Playwrights’ Center & The Kennedy Center), Feisty Disabled Artists Cabaret (Joe’s Pub), and her latest short film Slow Down (Lead & filmmaker). Marisa is grateful to the cast and creative team and to her people for their love and support!

MARC GOLDBERG (Stacee Jaxx) is a Phoenix veteran having played featured roles in a number of Phoenix “rock musical” productions, most notably Jesus Christ Superstar (Judas, Simon), The Who’s Tommy (The Hawker), and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Pharaoh). Marc regularly performs as the lead-singing drummer of the cover band “Outlet”, and recently reignited his band from the early/mid 2000s, “More–Then I,” which had regional success opening for national acts such as Bret Michaels (Poison), the Marshall Tucker Band, and O.A.R. Marc would like to thank his wife, Tammy, and their children, Teddy and Helaina, for their ongoing love and support of his artistic endeavors.

JOHN GRIFFIN (Dennis Dupree)

is happy to return to Phoenix for his second show here, having made his Phoenix debut last season in Fiddler on the Roof (Tevye). This is John’s second time in Rock of Ages, having previously played Stacee Jaxx at Brookdale Performing Arts. Other recent credits: American Son (Scott; Seaview Playwrights), Nine (Guido; Playhouse 22). Thanks to Jim, Matt, Fran, Pat, Mia, and the cast/crew for their dedication. Love to Nikki and Bethany. “I raise a toast to all of us.” ~Dennis

WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST

TARA HINES

(Mother, Ensemble, u/s Justice)

is ready to rock in her second Phoenix production after her role in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Janelle Woods). Her recent credits include: Althea and Angela (Althea), The Cake (Macy) and If/Then (Elena). She has had a blast with this incredibly talented cast, especially her partner Billy Mills, and would like to thank them all for their kindness, sexiness, and hard work! Thank you to the entire production team for everything. Thank you to her family and friends for all of their love and never ending support. Thank you and get ready to melt your faces off!

JULIET HOUNSELL

(Venus Dancer, u/s Sherrie)

is honored to be making her Phoenix debut in Rock of Ages! Previous credits include: Spring Awakening (Ilse), The Addams Family (Wednesday), and The Mystery of Edwin Drood (Rosa). She will be graduating from Montclair State University this fall with a B.A. in Theatre Studies. She’d like to thank the entire cast and creative team of Rock of Ages for being such amazing people and inspiring artists, as well as her family and friends for the never-ending support.

KYLE KENNEDY

(Record Producer, Ensemble) is thrilled to be in his 16th Phoenix Productions show! He was most recently in Disney’s The Little Mermaid (Ensemble) this past February. Favorite shows/ roles include: Miracle on 34th Street (Shellhammer; Phoenix Productions), Fiddler on the Roof (Hershel/Bottle Dancer; Phoenix Productions), and The Prom (Sheldon; 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 the entire production team of Rock of Ages, as well as his friends and family for their constant love and support.

JOEY MAHER

(Drew Boley)

is overjoyed to be part of Phoenix again this year in Rock of Ages! For the past four years, he has been assisting RBC Performing Arts with productions such as: Anything Goes, The Addams Family (Basie Award Best Musical 2024), and most recently Peter and the Starcatcher (Basie Award Best Play 2026). Joey has been doing theatre from a young age, performing in The Radio City Christmas Spectacular (Ben) and has his B.F.A. in Musical Theatre from Rider University. Some recent credits include: West Side Story (Riff; Phoenix Productions), Kinky Boots (Charlie; Phoenix Productions), Legally Blonde (Emmett; Phoenix Productions), and Disney’s The Little Mermaid (Prince Eric; Phoenix Productions). In addition, he is Assistant House Manager for the Count Basie Center for the Arts, and is thrilled to bring the same passion and expertise in theatre he has gained right here to the Basie! Let’s ROCK! @joey_maher

RILEY MARTIN (Sherrie Christian)

is thrilled to return to her Phoenix family in Rock of Ages after appearing on the Basie stage last summer in Legally Blonde (Elle Woods). A Rider University graduate with a BA in Theatre, Riley currently directs the Basie-nominated drama program at Freehold Township High School. Endless thanks to the Phoenix creative team, her friends, and family for their unwavering belief in her. She hopes you enjoy this insanely fun show celebrating some of the best music ever written! @rileyymartinn

BILLY MILLS

(Lonny Barnett)

is overjoyed to return to the Basie stage after debuting in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. Favorite roles include: If/ Then (David), Grease (Roger), and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (Pseudolus/Miles Gloriosus). Offstage, he owns a private practice and, to combat stigma, creates educational mental health content as @counselor.will. He extends deep gratitude to the Phoenix team—specifically Jim, Matt, James, & Mia—for fulfilling his rockstar dreams. He is privileged to perform with this stellar cast, especially his incomparable partner, Tara. Billy sends endless love to his supportive family and dedicates this performance to the memory of his father, who was a complicated man but inspired his lifelong love for rock music. Now, my babies, get ready to headbang as we shred the night away!

TIFFANY QUINBY

(Venus Dancer, Dance Captain) graduated with a bachelor’s degree in dance from Georgian Court University and has also trained at the Joffrey Ballet School’s Summer Intensive. She recently was in Disney’s The Little Mermaid (Ensemble; Phoenix Productions). Tiffany is thrilled to return to the stage in her second production with Phoenix!

LINDSAY PAIGE SPITZER

(Waitress #1, Ensemble) is thrilled to be head banging at the Bourbon Room as Waitress #1 in Rock of Ages! When she’s not dancing on the Sunset Strip, Lindsay is a PK-2 music teacher, princess performer, and vocal coach. Past credits: Disney’s The Little Mermaid (Ariel; Phoenix Productions), Evil Dead: The Musical (Shelly/ Annie; Phoenix Productions), Legally Blonde (Brooke Wyndham; Phoenix Productions), Footloose (Rusty; Algonquin Arts Theatre), Fiddler on the Roof (Hodel, Algonquin Arts Theatre), Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Cynthia Weil; Kelsey Theatre), The Last Five Years (Cathy; Ferrell Studios), and Little Shop of Horrors (Audrey; Cabaret Theatre). Much love to her friends and family! LET’S ROCK! IG: @lili_paigeee

WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST

NASIR ROPER

(Record Producer, Ensemble)

is excited to return to the Phoenix family and rock the Basie stage. Past credits include: Runaways (Player 4/Ensemble), 13 (Eddie), The Scottsboro Boys (Eugene), Spring Awakening (Male Swing/Ensemble), Heathers: The Musical (Ram/Ensemble), Seussical (Horton), Once on This Island (Tonton Julian), High School Musical (Chad), The Music Man (Ensemble), Ragtime (Sarah’s friend/Ensemble), Ragtime (Ensemble; Phoenix Productions), Kinky Boots (Angel/Referee).

JESSE SAMAY

(Ensemble)

is thrilled to be coming back to the Count Basie for Rock of Ages with this fantastic cast! Past shows include: RENT (Paul/ Santa Fe Dancer/Policeman; Phoenix Productions) and Mamma Mia! (Featured Ensemble; Warner Theatre). Jesse is also a seasoned rock vocalist for Never Say Goodbye the Bon Jovi Tribute and original band Phoenix Down. Jesse would like to thank family and friends for their amazing support and love!

ARIEL J SANCHEZ-BELLO

(Ja’Keith Gill, Ensemble)

is thrilled to be returning to the Basie stage in the musical his family had no idea existed (but they knew The Prom…). Previous Phoenix credits include: RENT (Gordon, u/s Mark), Disney’s The Little Mermaid (Goldfish, u/s Prince Eric), West Side Story (Pepe), Legally Blonde (Nikos Argitakos, u/s Emmett) and Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Nick/Love Potion No. 9 soloist). Ariel would like to thank FIFA for doing absolutely nothing but adding more stress to his life; much appreciated. Ariel would also like to personally thank Jalen, Karl, Josh, OG, and Mikal. Enjoy the show! Go NY, Go NY GO!

DENNIS TOLENTINO

(Father, Mayor, DJ, Producer, Ensemble, u/s Dennis, Ja’Keith, & Stacee)

Previous Phoenix credits: In the Heights (Kevin Rosario, 2018), Mamma Mia! (Harry Bright), A Christmas Carol (Cratchit), The Addams Family (Mal Beineke), and Miracle on 34th Street (Sawyer). Dennis is also an NJACT Perry Award winning Production Stage Manager with Phoenix. A 1st generation Filipino-American, Dennis grew up in Bloomfield and Old Bridge and lives in Manalapan. Dennis is a Georgetown University graduate and works for McMaster-Carr Supply.

GABRIEL ANGEL VALLE

(they/them) (Venus Dancer)

would like to thank Phoenix Productions for this wonderful opportunity to take part in the talented group of women that are the Venus Dancers. My interpretation is a love letter to all the wonderful, powerful, beautiful women in my life — especially the cisgender and transgender women who raised, shaped, and inspired me, and taught me what strength, softness, resilience, and femininity can look like. If you would like to see what I’ve been in, just go to my IG: @gabrielangelvalle

ANTHONY VIERA

(Hertz Klinemann) is thrilled to be back on the Phoenix stage. Recent Phoenix credits include: Miracle on 34th Street (Kris Kringle), Kinky Boots (Don), RENT (Mr. Jefferson, u/s Benny), Ragtime, Once on This Island, and Evil

Dead: The Musical (Ed). Behind the scenes, Anthony has worked as a production manager and assistant director, and recently made his directorial debut with Ain’t Misbehavin’ at The Vogel. This, and everything I do is for you, Nan.

ALEXA WESSEL

(Protestor #1, Ensemble, Venus Swing) is ready to rock the Count Basie stage in her third show with Phoenix Productions alongside the cast of Rock of Ages! Some of Alexa’s previous credits include: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (‘Why Do Fools’ Soloist/Ensemble; Phoenix Productions) and Disney’s The Little Mermaid (Ensemble; Phoenix Productions). She recently graduated from Rutgers University, where she studied English literature and Korean language. She would like to thank Phoenix Productions, her incredibly talented fellow castmates, the wonderful production team, and her friends and family for their love and support!

REAGAN WHITE (Regina Koontz) is thrilled to be rocking out with this incredible cast! She last appeared at The Basie in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Carole King) this past spring. Other credits: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Betty; Axelrod PAC), Spring Awakening (Wendla; Cabaret Theatre), Spring Awakening (Ilse; Premier Theatre Company), Hair (Sheila; Livingston Theatre Co.), Jesus Christ Superstar (Ensemble; Phoenix Productions). By day, she is a public librarian and proud Jeopardy! loser. Many thanks to everyone at Phoenix and love to friends & the fam. LET’S ROCK!

AUTHOR BIOGRAPHIES

CHRIS D’ARIENZO (Book)

is the book writer of the five-time Tony-nominated Rock Of Ages, as well as the screenwriter and executive producer of the film adaptation starring Tom Cruise. Chris wrote and directed the film Barry Munday, starring Patrick Wilson, Judy Greer, Chloe Sevigny, Jean Smart, and Malcolm McDowell. Barry Munday was selected as a “Spotlight Premiere” at the 2010 SXSW Film Festival and was featured at the Edinburg Film Festival and Newport Beach Film Festival, where Chris won the award for Outstanding Filmmaking.

WHO’S WHO ON THE PRODUCTION TEAM

FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ

(Production Manager, Sound Design) is excited to be working for the first time with this incredibly talented production team. Fran has been with Phoenix for almost 30 years, both on stage and behind the scenes. Fran most recently performed in The Prom (Mrs. Greene) and received a Perry Award for her Stage Management work on Kinky Boots. Phoenix Production Management credits include: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Miracle on 34th Street, The Color Purple, West Side Story, The Wizard of Oz, A Christmas Carol, Ragtime, Guys and Dolls, Hair, and School of Rock. Thanks to Amanda (her partner in crime) as well as the cast, crew, and all of the volunteers for their hard work on this production. Love to Stew, Sydney, and Jason.

AMANDA MUNICE (Production Manager) began her theatrical journey right here at the Basie with Phoenix Productions in 1991. She was recently seen performing in Fiddler on the Roof (Golde), but she’s also been “unseen” by audiences as a stage manager, props coordinator, dresser, crew chief, scenic painter, and costume seamstress. Favorite roles of all time: Mama (to Mariella), Wife (to Justin), Daughter (to Nancy and Eric), and Art Teacher (at Strathmore Elementary, Matawan). Thank you for supporting live theater!

JAMES MARHOLD (Director) has been a performer, Director, and Production Manager at Phoenix for over 35 years! Production credits include: Evil Dead: The Musical (Director), Mary Poppins, Disney’s The Little Mermaid, RENT, In the Heights, Once on This Island, Evita, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, West Side Story, Grease, Legally Blonde, Nice Work If You Can Get It, Spring Awakening, Elf, The Wedding Singer, and Songs for a New World. Thanks to Kathy and Patrick for their love and support!

MIA AVENOSO (Choreographer) is so excited to be on the production team for this amazing show with this incredible cast. This is her choreographer debut at Phoenix but not her debut at Phoenix. Her previous credits include: Disney’s The Little Mermaid (Assistant Choreographer), Legally Blonde (Delta Nu, u/s Brooke), and West Side Story (Graziella). Mia is so honored to have the opportunity to learn and grow at Phoenix while also making beautiful art with the production team and cast. She is thankful for her family and friends who always support her in everything she does. Enjoy the show and Rock On! @moodswithmia

MATTHEW DeMARCO (Music Director, Conductor) has had the honor of performing with Phoenix Productions for over 20 years. However, this marks his first time stepping off stage to serve as Music Director. Past music directing credits include: Cry Baby, Alice by Heart, Mamma Mia!, Shrek the Musical, Guys and Dolls, Be More Chill, The Wedding Singer, and more. Many thanks to Fran, Jim, and James for the opportunity. And shout out to the rest of the Rock of Ages team! To the cast: thank you for your time, talents, and hard work in making this such a fun and amazing experience. Break a leg!

ZACK BLISS (Lighting Designer)

has been a freelance LD and technician for over a decade. Previous Phoenix design credit: Legally Blonde. Elsewhere: Exit 82 Theatre Company, Axelrod Performing Arts Center, Bell Works, and Toms River High School North. His work has been recognized by the BroadwayWorld New Jersey Awards and the bergenPAC’s High School Musical Awards. Onstage Phoenix credits include: Bat Boy: The Musical (Perry Award nomination), The Addams Family, and Kinky Boots. Let’s rock!

FRANKIE CONFALONE (Costume Designer)

Previous Phoenix costuming: Miracle on 34 Street (w/ Desiree Davenport), Legally Blonde, and RENT. On stage at Phoenix: Kinky Boots (Harry) and American Idiot (Will). Additional highlights include: Hair, Little

Shop of Horrors (Costumer w/ Desiree Davenport; Exit 82 Theatre Company), Carrie, Alice By Heart, and It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play (Director; Exit 82 Theatre Company), 9 to 5: The Musical and The Rocky Horror Show (Costumer; Algonquin Arts Theatre). Many thanks to Phoenix! Let’s rock!

ASHLEY CUSACK (Scenic Charge) is a Perry Award winning 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: Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Kinky Boots, 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.

DESIREE DAVENPORT (Costume Designer) is so happy to be working with Phoenix Productions on one of her favorite shows. Past costuming credits include: Miracle on 34th Street (Phoenix Productions), Legally Blonde, Little Women, Rock of Ages, Spring Awakening, Be More Chill, Hair, and Little Shop of Horrors (Exit 82 Theatre Company)—many alongside Frankie Confalone. Sending a huge thank you to the entire Phoenix Productions team for such a creative and wonderful experience. Break a leg to this amazing cast and crew! Rock on!

PAT MALIWAT (Production Stage Manager) was a BA Theatre Arts major in Dramaturgy and Directing from the University of the Philippines, Diliman. Her stage management credentials include: The Last Five Years (Barefoot Theatre Collaborative, 2023), Into The Woods (Theatre Group Asia, 2025), Your Mind, Girls: The First Battleground For Freedom (Barnard College NYC, 2025), Miracle on 34th Street (Phoenix Productions, 2025), Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Phoenix Productions, 2026), Truth: A Biofictional Choreopoem (La MaMa NYC, 2026), and CUMULO (MITU580 NYC, 2026).

KYLE SANTOPADRE (Technical Director, Scenic Designer) 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: West Side Story, In the Heights, Guys & Dolls (Phoenix Productions); Noises Off (Raritan HS); Hello, Dolly! (Capital Productions). Many thanks to a wonderful production team!

TOMÁS ALFONSO TORRES (Technical Specialist) is proud to have worked on this wild set, having constructed past Phoenix Productions shows, such as Miracle on 34th Street, Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Ain’t Misbehavin’, and more. Having acquired a Bachelor’s in Theatre Studies from Susquehanna University, and an MA in Theatre from Villanova University, Tomás has dedicated all of his career to the art of making art. Much love to Amanda, Sandra, Juan, and his siblings. Thank you for your support and love.

LIZ ZABAT (Assistant Stage Manager) is elated to be back with Phoenix. She is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts Amherst BA Theatre program, with a concentration in stage management and technical direction. Previous credits include: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Assistant Stage Manager; Phoenix Productions), Gem of the Ocean (Production Assistant; Two River Theater), Twelfth Night (Producer), She Loves Me (Stage Manager), and Witch (Technical Direction Associate). Many thanks to James, Jim, Pat, Aileen, Fran, Amanda, and Jake for supporting her on this journey!

MUSIC CREDITS

“Anyway You Want It” written by Steve Perry and Neal Schon.

“Beaver Hunt” written by David Gibbs and Chris Hardwick. Published by Feed the Pony Songs and Fish Ladder, Inc. (BMI)

“Don’t Stop Believin’” written by Jonathan Cain, Stephen Ray Perry, Neal J. Schon.

“Every Rose Has Its Thorn” written by Bobby Dall, Bruce Anthony Johannesson, Bret Michael, Rikki Rocket. © All rights owned or administered by Universal Music-Z Songs on behalf of Cyanide Publ./BMI. Used by permission.

“Harden My Heart” written by Marvin Webster Ross. © 1980 WB Music Corp. (ASCAP), Narrow Dude Music (ASCAP) and BonnieBee Good Music. All rights administered by WB Music Corp. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

“Heat of the Moment” written by Geoffrey Downes and John K. Wetton. © 1982 WB Music Corp (ASCAP). Almond Legg Music Corp. (ASCAP) and Pallan Music. All rights on behalf of itself and Almond Legg Music Corp. administered by WB Music Corp. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

“High Enough” written by Jack Blades, Ted Nugent and Tommy R. Shaw. © Published by Bicycle Music Company, Broadhead Publishing and Wixen Music.

“I Want to Know What Love Is” written by Michael Leslie Jones. © Published by Somerset Songs Publishing, Inc. “Just Like Paradise” written by David Lee Roth and Brett Tuggle. © Diamond Dave Music c/o RS Plane Music.

“Nothin’ But a Good Time” written by Bobby Dall, Bruce Anthony Johannesson, Bret Michaels, Rikki Rocket. © All rights owned or administered by Universal Music-Z Songs on behalf of Cyanide Publ./BMI. Used by permission.

“Oh Sherrie” written by Steve Perry, Randy Goodrum, Bill Cuomo, Craig Krampf. © Published by Street Talk Tunes, April Music Inc. & Random Notes, Pants Down Music and Phosphene Music.

“The Search is Over” written by James Peterik and Frankie Sullivan. © 1984 Kohaw Music (ASCAP) and Easy Action Music (ASCAP) and Rude Music, Inc. (BMI). All rights administered by Kohaw Music (ASCAP) obo itself and Easy Action Music (ASCAP), c/o The Bicycle Music Company and Three Wise Boys Music (BMI) on behalf of itself and Rude Music (BMI). All rights reserved. Used by permission.

“To Be With You” written by David Grahame and Eric Martin. © EMI April Music, Inc. obo itself, Dog Turner Music and Eric Martin Songs (ASCAP).

“Waiting for a Girl Like You” written by Michael Leslie Jones and Louis Gramattico. © Published by Somerset Songs Publishing Inc.

“Wanted Dead or Alive” written by Jon Bon Jovi and Richard S. Sambora. © All rights owned or administered by Universal-Polygram Int. Publ., Inc. on behalf of itself and Bon Jovi Publishing/ASCAP. Used by permission.

“We Built This City” written by Dennis Lambert, Martin George Page, Bernie Taupin and Peter Wolf. © All rights owned or administered by Universal-Polygram Int. Publ., Inc. on behalf of Little Mole Music Inc./ASCAP. Used by permission.