FEB 20 - 22 • 2026
PHOENIX PRODUCTIONS’
Production of
THE LITTLE MERMAID
Music by Alan Menken
Lyrics by Howard Ashman & Glenn Slater Book by Doug Wright
Based on the Hans Christian Andersen story and the Disney film produced by Howard Ashman & John Musker and written & directed by John Musker & Ron Clements.
Originally Produced by Disney Theatrical Productions
Orchestrations by Danny Troob
Incidental Music & Vocal Arrangements by Michael Kosarin
Dance Arrangements by David Chase
Costume Designer JANNETTE FISHER
Technical Director KYLE SANTOPADRE
Production Manager JAMES MARHOLD
Production Stage Manager FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ
Music Director TEDDY KERNIZAN
Lighting Designer KYLE SANTOPADRE
Technical Specialist TOMÁS ALFONSO TORRES
Properties JAMES GRAUSAM
Scenic Designer ASHLEY CUSACK
Director/Choreographer
NATALIE HAYES-SCOTT
Flying Effects provided by ZFX
DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID
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
The Little Mermaid has always been a classic fairy tale story of dreaming to be somewhere and something that you’re not. From its original creation as a Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale, published in 1837, to the launch of the Disney Renaissance in 1989; this story endures because everyone can relate to something. Whether it’s Ariel’s spunky, adventurous desire to journey to a world she’s never seen, or Eric’s hunt for the girl with the voice who stole his heart, or King Triton’s fatherly need to keep his daughter safe and away from a place and a people he sees as dangerous and cruel.
Maybe it’s the times in which we’re living, but I relate to King Triton’s need to protect and I’m so proud to work for an organization that strives to create a space that is safe for all artists to grow, share, and display their talents to entertain our community. Through their education programs, presentation of local artists, and, of course, their unwavering support of community theatre; the Count Basie Center is the premiere arts center in New Jersey. Phoenix Productions has welcomed hundreds of volunteers this season (and every season) to not only sing and dance, but to build, paint, sew, craft, and help backstage. We have long been a great way to welcome the community to participate in the arts and to support our goal of providing top-quality experiences for our community, on both sides of the footlights.
The Count Basie Center, now approaching 100 years old, has long been a “safe place for the community to gather, where stories are told” – and I sincerely hope you enjoy our telling of this classic tale. We’re happy to be “Part of Your World.”
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 Disney’s The Little Mermaid 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
Ariel ................................................................................................... LINDSAY PAIGE SPITZER
Prince Eric............................................................................................................ JOEY MAHER
Sebastian .............................................................................................................NA’JEE TARIQ
King Triton .........................................................................................................DUANE BANKS
Ursula ...................................................................................... JUSTINE DANIELLE GIACHETTI
Flounder CHLOE CARONE* & HARRY NGO*
Scuttle .............................................................................................................. GEORGE PLATIS
Grimsby JONATHAN STANLEY
Flotsam ..................................................................................................... CAMRYN RAGLAND
Jetsam JAVIER COSS
Chef Louis .............................................................................................................. JOE RONGA
Mersisters (daughters of King Triton)
Aquata .......................................................................................................... DAISHA DAVIS
Atina ................................................................................................... BRITTANY DiNARDO
Allana ...................................................................................................... EMILY LAUGHERY
Adella .................................................................................................................. JULIA LUPI
Arista ISABELLA SISO
Andrina ................................................................................................... CLAIRA WILLIAMS
Ensemble
SIENA DeFILIPPIS, BRANDON GUILLEBEAUX, KEEGAN HAACK, ELLORA JAIN, KYLE KENNEDY, DENN MICHAEL, Jr., JULIA NEVE MONTELEONE, MICHELLE MOUGHAN, ADELINE FAITH O’MARA, RAUL ORTEGA III, SUSIE PELTZ, JASMINE PLANTT, ANTHONY PREUSTER, TIFFANY QUINBY, ARIEL SANCHEZ-BELLO, GABRIEL ANGEL VALLE, HUDSON VELTRI, ALEXA WESSEL, ELENA WORTON, STEFANIE WORTON, LILIANA ZERTUCHE
*Flounder cast members will alternate in select performances over the weekend.
UNDERSTUDIES
For Ariel - JULIA LUPI, for Prince Eric - ARIEL SANCHEZ-BELLO, for Sebastian - JAVIER COSS, for King Triton - BRANDON GUILLEBEAUX, for Ursula - DANA DiANGELO, for Flotsam/Jetsam - GABRIEL ANGEL VALLE, for Scuttle - MICHELLE MOUGHAN, for Chef Louis - ANTHONY PREUSTER, for Gulls - SIENA DeFILIPPIS & JULIA NEVE MONTELEONE, for Mersisters - STEFANIE WORTON.
If you’d like information about auditioning for a future show, please
THE PRODUCTION TEAM
Production Manager .................................................................................... JAMES MARHOLD
Director/Choreographer NATALIE HAYES-SCOTT
Music Director TEDDY KERNIZAN
Costume Designer ...................................................................................... JANNETTE FISHER
Technical Director ..................................................................................... KYLE SANTOPADRE
Technical Specialist .......................................................................TOMÁS ALFONSO TORRES
Scenic Designer/Scenic Charge ASHLEY CUSACK
Lighting Designer ..................................................................................... KYLE SANTOPADRE
Sound Design ..................................................................................................................... ACIR
Properties ..................................................................................................... JAMES GRAUSAM
Production Stage Manager FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ
Assistant Stage Manager ..................................................................... MANNY JEAN-PIERRE
Assistant Stage Manager (Sound) ....................................................... STEPHANIE SCHOPPE
Assistant Stage Manager (Flight) .......................................................................... JO WYMER
Assistant Director/Choreographer DANIEL CANCEL
Assistant Choreographer ................................................................................. MIA AVENOSO
Production Assistant ..................................................................................... KEIRA SULLIVAN
Makeup Designer/HMU Supervisor .............................................................. JORDYN JARVIS
Associate Costume Designer/Lead Crafter ARIANA “ARI” MICHEL HAMBLIN
Wardrobe Supervisor/Co-Coordinator ASHANTAH KERR
Associate Wig Designer/Wig Stylist ..................................................................... SHARI GILL
Stage Crew ...................................................................... JACK HADDEN, DANA JILL MALEY, DANIEL LAVIE-HOROVITZ
Key Costumer ............................................................................................JOANNE PENROSE
Key Wardrobe Dresser MARK LOVELL
Key HMU Dresser .................................................................................. MIKE GWIAZDOWSKI
Wardrobe Dressers .......................PARIS BATES, JOYCE BELITSKY, STEPHANIE MALEWSKI, AMANDA MUNICE, QUINCY SOUTHERLAND
HMU Dressers ...................................................... KHARIYA MUHAMMAD, KIARA WARFIELD
Scenic Crew .............................
JOYCE BELITSKY, CHARLOTTE CARONE, CHLOE CARONE, CONSTANCE LAVIN CARONE, TODD CARONE, JESSICA COGAN, LILAIA KARIS DeFILIPPIS, STEPHANIE FAZZOLARI, TRAVIS GASTON, DONNA HUNT, ELLORA JAIN, LYDIA JAIN, PAT KAY, AMANDA MUNICE, AMANDA NGO, HARRY NGO, LISA SIKO, LISA SHEPPARD, DAVE SHEPPARD, DENI SOBOTKA, CLAIRA WILLIAMS
Managing Artistic Director ......................................................................... JAMES GRAUSAM
Special Thanks ......................................COUNT BASIE CENTER MARKETING DEPARTMENT, GYPSY GARAGE, DIANE DiYANNI, JOHN POSADA, DENNIS TOLENTINO
THE ORCHESTRA
Conductor/Keyboard 1 .............................................................................. TEDDY KERNIZAN
Bass ............................................................................................................... JOHN MORONEY
Celeste/Keyboard 2 ............................................................................................. KARA LEIGH
Keyboard 3............................................................................................ MATTHEW STEPHENS
Cello ..................................................................................................................... CATY BUTLER
Horn JESSICA BERUBE
Drums JAY MACK
Percussion ............................................................................................... CARMINE FIUMANO
Reed 1.............................................................................................................. ALYSSA GINDER
Reed 2.................................................................................................. MICHAEL WITSBERGER
Reed 3................................................................................................... ANTHONY ORECCHIO
Trumpet ............................................................................................................. JOE MOSELLO
Violin 1 ............................................................................................................. HALEY SCHILLA
Violin 2 SYDNEY SMITH
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
Maria Maher Co-Vice Chairperson
Maggie Riker Co-Vice Chairperson
SCENES AND MUSICAL NUMBERS
1. The Water’s Surface
ACT I
“The World Above” Ariel
“Fathoms Below” .....................................................Pilot, Sailors, Prince Eric, Grimsby
2. King Triton’s Court
“Daughters of Triton” ....................................................................................Mersisters
“If Only” ......................................................................................................... King Triton
3. Ursula’s Lair
“Daddy’s Little Angel” ............................................................. Ursula, Flotsam, Jetsam
4. Ariel’s Grotto
“Part of Your World” Ariel
“The Storm” .......................................................................................................... Sailors
5. Prince Eric’s Ship
“Part of Your World” (Reprise)............................................................................... Ariel
6. Mersister’s “Girl Cave”
“She’s in Love” ............................................................................... Mersisters, Flounder
7. The Beach
“Her Voice” .................................................................................................... Prince Eric
8. Open Water
“Under the Sea” ..................................................................... Sebastian, Sea Creatures
9. Ariel’s Grotto
“If Only” ................................................................................................................... Ariel
“Sweet Child” ....................................................................................... Flotsam, Jetsam
10. Ursula’s Lair
“Poor Unfortunate Souls” .................................................................................... Ursula Act 1 Finale Ursula, Ariel
SCENES AND MUSICAL NUMBERS
ACT II
1. The Beach
“Positoovity” ............................................................................................. Scuttle, Gulls
“Positaggity” ............................................................................................. Scuttle, Gulls
2. King Triton’s Court
3. The Palace / Ariel’s Chambers
“Beyond My Wildest Dreams” ................................................... Ariel, Maids, Grimsby
4. The Palace Kitchen
“Les Poissons” ............................................................................................... Chef Louis
5. The Palace Banquet Hall
“Les Poissons” (Reprise) .................................................................... Chef Louis, Chefs
6. The Palace Ballroom
“One Step Closer” ......................................................................................... Prince Eric
7. Ursula’s Lair
“Daddy’s Little Angel” (Reprise) ............................................. Ursula, Flotsam, Jetsam
8. The Bay
“Kiss the Girl” ......................................................................... Sebastian, Sea Creatures
9. King Triton’s Court
10. Ariel’s Chambers / The Ship / King Triton’s Court
“If Only” (Quartet)
11. The Palace Ballroom
Ariel, Prince Eric, Sebastian, King Triton
“The Contest” Grimsby, Princesses
“Ariel Steps Forward” Ursula
12. Ursula’s Lair
“Poor Unfortunate Souls” (Reprise) ................................................................... Ursula
“Ariel’s Transformation” ................................................................................Mersisters
13. The Beach
Finale ...............................................................
Ariel, King Triton, Prince Eric, Ensemble
THERE WILL BE ONE 15 MINUTE INTERMISSION.
WARNING: THIS PERFORMANCE UTILIZES STROBE LIGHTING AND THEATRICAL HAZE.
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.
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
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, 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
LINDSAY PAIGE SPITZER (Ariel)
is thrilled to be swimming “Under the Sea” as Ariel in The Little Mermaid! In the human world, Lindsay is a PK-2 music teacher, princess performer, and vocal coach. Past credits: Evil Dead The Musical (Shelly/Annie, Phoenix Productions), 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), The Last Five Years (Cathy, Ferrell Studios), Little Shop of Horrors (Audrey, Cabaret Theatre). Much love to her friends and family! THANK YOU Phoenix for making this mermaid’s dream come true! IG: @lili_paigeee
JOEY MAHER (Prince Eric)
is thrilled to be part of Phoenix once again! He has spent the past four years assisting RBC Performing Arts on productions including: A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Anything Goes, The Addams Family (Basie Award–winning Best Musical), and Into the Woods. Joey began performing at a young age, appearing in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, and earned his B.F.A. in Musical Theatre from Rider University. Favorite credits include: West Side Story (Riff), Kinky Boots (Charlie), Legally Blonde (Emmett), and Footloose (Ren). Joey also works behind the scenes as Assistant House Manager at the Count Basie Center for the Arts. @joey_maher
NA’JEE TARIQ (Sebastian)
is elated to bring Disney magic to the Basie stage with Phoenix Productions as Sebastian. You may have seen him in previous Phoenix Productions such as Kinky Boots (Lola) and RENT (Ensemble, u/s Angel). Offstage, Na’Jee channels his passion into the classroom, where he empowers and inspires young minds to shine as their best selves.
DUANE BANKS (King Triton)
is a NYC/NJ based actor, singer, and dancer. Off Broadway: Two Gentlemen of Verona, The Little Princess. Regional: Ragtime. Theatre: Ragtime, In the Heights, Urinetown, Once on This Island, Les Miserables, Hairspray. TV & Film: Sandy & Source, WSAV in Savannah. He is also a Two Time NJACT Perry Award Nominee for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Musical. Duane also studied Musical Theatre at Montclair State University. He would like to thank his family and friends for trusting and supporting him. @_duanebanks
JUSTINE DANIELLE GIACHETTI (Ursula)
is making a splash in her Phoenix debut. She’s a professional trans actor, playwright/ lyricist, director, and arts educator, and dedicates this performance to Howard Ashman. Acting credits include: Romeo and Juliet (Nurse), Seussical (Mr. Mayor/Wickersham 1/Dance Captain), She Kills Monsters (Orcus), Puffs (Wayne Hopkins), Heathers (Heather Chandler), and The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Quasimodo). Directing credits include: The Lightning Thief, Trail to Oregon, Doctor Faustus, The Tempest, The Penelopiad, and more. She serves as Associate Artistic Director of IlluminArt Productions. She thanks Natalie and Phoenix Productions for this opportunity, and her friends and family for their loving support.
CHLOE CARONE (Flounder)
is 11 years old and bubbling with excitement to return to the Basie stage in her 4th Phoenix production! Phoenix credits: Ragtime (Ensemble, Little Girl u/s), A Christmas Carol (Ensemble) and The Wizard of Oz (Munchkin). This marks Chloe’s second journey “Under the Sea” as Flounder, following a recent run with Axelrod Performing Arts Academy. Other favorite credits: Dare to Dream, Jr. (Player 5, APAA), Beetlejuice,Jr. (Sky, APAA) and Matilda (Hortensia, Pivot). Special thanks to her family for their unwavering support. She dedicates this performance to her Disney-loving cousins. Chloe is no guppy–she’s about to make a splash in her “She’s in Love” moment!
HARRY NGO (Flounder)
is thrilled to be making his debut with Phoenix Productions as Flounder! Portraying Flounder has been his goal since he performed as Ensemble in TheatreCraft Productions’ The Little Mermaid in 2022. Harry’s favorite performances include: The Lion King Jr. (Young Simba/Count Basie Center Turner Academy of the Arts), Willy Wonka Jr. (Charlie/Shrewsbury Borough School), and Olympians (Apollo/French Woods Festival).
GEORGE PLATIS (Scuttle)
is an expert on thingamabobs and thrilled to fly back on stage in The Little Mermaid—and back at Phoenix for the first time in 18 years! National Tour: Titanic (George Widener). Additional credits include: Children of Eden (Cain/Japheth), Gypsy (Angie), Into the Woods (Jack), and Cats (Munkustrap). Offstage he is a kindergarten teacher in Red Bank, a director and choreographer for student productions at the Count Basie Center Turner Academy of the Arts, and creates read-alouds on YouTube (Mr. Platis Storytime). Forever grateful for the cast, crew, family, friends, and partner, Alec. @geo.platis
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
JONATHAN STANLEY (Grimsby)
is excited to return to the Count Basie stage! Prior stage credits include: Once on This Island, Ragtime, RENT, Oliver, Meet Me in St. Louis, Children of Eden, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Beauty and the Beast, Peter Pan, Footloose, Tom Sawyer, The Wizard of Oz. He thanks his family and friends for supporting his gift throughout the years.
CAMRYN RAGLAND (Flotsam)
is incredibly excited to be swimming “Under the Sea” in her 4th show with the talented cast and creative team of Phoenix Productions. She recently earned her BA in Psychology and Law & Justice Studies from Rowan University. Her favorite roles include: Once on This Island (Storyteller; Phoenix Productions), The Addams Family (Flapper Ancestor; Phoenix Productions), SpongeBob the Musical (The Mayor; Ritz Theatre Co.), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Congregation/Esmeralda u/s; HP&P) and Jekyll & Hyde (Nellie/Lucy u/s; Bridge Players). She thanks her family for supporting her goals! IG: camj_rag
JAVIER COSS
(Jetsam, u/s Sebastian)
is thrilled to be playing the role of Jetsam in this magical 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 is super 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_
JOE RONGA
(Chef Louis)
is thrilled to return to the iconic Count Basie Center with Phoenix Productions, adding The Little Mermaid to a career spanning hundreds of performances and earning him the affectionate title of “The Shore Favorite.” Joe made his stage debut in 1994 in CHESS (Molokov) and has since enjoyed many favorite roles including: Hairspray (Edna Turnblad, NJ Premiere) and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Panch, NJ Premiere). Previous Phoenix credits include: 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), as well as Miracle on 34th Street (R.H. Macy). This performance is lovingly dedicated to his sister Lisa, with whom he shared a childhood love of Disney’s The Little Mermaid, making this production a full circle and deeply meaningful moment because sometimes you have to follow your heart to where you belong.
DAISHA DAVIS (Aquata)
is so excited to return to the Count Basie stage! She recently played the role of Nettie in Phoenix Productions’ The Color Purple. Daisha is a B.A. Theatre Graduate from Kean University and a Performing Arts Teacher in her hometown of Newark, NJ. Daisha has been seen on many stages throughout NJ. Some of her additional recent credits include: Urinetown (Becky Two Shoes; MAC Players), Hairspray (Motormouth Maybelle; MAC Players), Seussical (Sour Kangaroo; Light Opera of NJ), Memphis (Felicia; Playhouse 22), Ragtime (Sarah’s Friend; Phoenix Productions) and many more! Daisha would like to thank her friends, family and fellow cast members for all their love and support.
DANA DiANGELO (u/s Ursula)
is thrilled to be a part of The Little Mermaid team and the Phoenix Productions family. Past Credits include: Kinky Boots (Trish; Phoenix Productions), Gypsy (Mama Rose; The Heights Players), Annie (Grace; Jeff Samaha Productions), How to Succeed… (Smitty; Rockaway Theater Company.) Thank you to the cast and crew for the opportunity to be surrounded by such talent and creativity during this process. Special thanks to her husband Bruno and daughter Eleanor for their love and encouragement.
SIENA DeFILIPPIS
(Ensemble, u/s Gulls)
is excited to join the Phoenix family with The Little Mermaid! When not on stage, Siena enjoys spending time with her friends, eating good food, and seeing shows on Broadway. Her favorite musical theatre appearances include: Matilda Jr. (Mrs. Phelps), Dare to Dream Jr. (Player 13) and Frozen Jr. (Middle Anna). She would like to thank her directors for this opportunity, her vocal coach, Tom O’Brien, for his mentorship, and her family for their constant love and support.
BRITTANY DiNARDO (Atina)
is thrilled to be returning to the beautiful Basie in her sixth show with Phoenix Productions! Previous credits include: Legally Blonde (Vivienne Kensington), Guys and Dolls, Hair, The Wedding Singer (Holly), and Songs for a New World. Brittany sends much love to her family and friends, as well as to the amazing production team and cast of The Little Mermaid! Can’t wait to dive “Under the Sea” with you all!
BRANDON GUILLEBEAUX (Winward, u/s King Triton)
is happy to be returning to the stage with Phoenix Productions.
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
KEEGAN HAACK (Leeward)
is thrilled to return to the Count Basie stage in his eighth Phoenix production. His favorite roles include: Ragtime (Little Boy), where he was honored to win the 2024 NJACT Perry Award for Outstanding Youth Actor in a Musical, The Music Man (Winthrop), A Christmas Carol (Tiny Tim), Mary Poppins (Michael), and Newsies, Jr. (Jack). Keegan is an 8th grader in Holmdel who enjoys making people laugh, singing, and spending time with his wonderful family! He thanks the creative team for this incredible opportunity and fellow cast and crew members for yet another fantastic experience!
ELLORA JAIN (Ensemble)
is thrilled to return to the stage in her second production with Phoenix! Ellora is a 5th grader who loves spending time with friends, creating Lego masterpieces, baking, and participating in her school’s thespian troupe. Recent favorite shows include: Miracle on 34th Street (Susan Walker, Phoenix Productions), Matilda Jr. (Hortensia), Alice in Wonderland Jr. (Rose), and Willy Wonka Jr. (Violet Beauregard), with Count Basie Center Turner Academy of the Arts. Ellora thanks her theater/ voice teachers, the production team, cast and crew of The Little Mermaid, and Phoenix for creating an environment that feels like a home away from home!
KYLE KENNEDY (Ensemble)
is thrilled to be in his 15th Phoenix Productions show! He was most recently in Miracle on 34th Street this past November as Shellhammer. Favorite shows/roles include: Fiddler on the Roof (Hershel/Bottle Dancer; Phoenix Productions), 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 Natalie, the entire production team of The Little Mermaid, as well as his friends, and family for their constant love and support.
EMILY LAUGHERY (Allana)
is thrilled to be making her Phoenix Productions debut in the The Little Mermaid as Allana! Emily is a singer and songwriter who believes deeply in the power of music to heal, connect, and tell the truth. A Berklee College of Music alum, she studies voice with Natalie Weiss and is passionate about honest storytelling through song. She would like to thank her family and friends for always believing in her, supporting her journey, and allowing her to pursue what she loves — she hopes to make you proud.
JULIA LUPI (Adella, u/s Ariel) is thrilled to be making her Phoenix Productions debut! Favorite credits include: Beauty and the Beast (Belle), Mary Poppins (Mary Poppins), Grease (Sandy) and Cinderella (Gabrielle). A huge thank you to the production team for their work and for the opportunity to go “Under the Sea!” Thanks always to family and friends for their constant support!
DENN MICHAEL, Jr. (Ensemble)
has been in a bunch of shows, but never one “Under the Sea.” Thank God for that year competing on the swim team when he was 10. Enjoy the show, folks! Thanks to D and Fen for always keeping stars in his eyes!
JULIA NEVE MONTELEONE (Ensemble, u/s Gulls) is thrilled to be back with her Phoenix family. 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), Fiddler on the Roof (Berille, Phoenix) and most recently Miracle on 34th Street (Ensemble, Phoenix). She 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, both with APAA. Julia would like to thank her loving family and friends for their support, is super grateful to Natalie and Danny for giving her this opportunity and is amazed by this talented cast, crew and production team who created such a magical Disney experience.
MICHELLE MOUGHAN (Ensemble, u/s Scuttle) is ~swimming with joy~ to be in her fourth Phoenix show!!! Previous Phoenix credits: Miracle on 34th Street (Rockette), Evil Dead The Musical (Linda), Mary Poppins (Dance Ensemble). NYC-based performing artist and educator, follow along @mishmou77 on Insta for more!!! Thank you to our outstanding production team, cast, crew, and all of you for supporting the arts! Love to mom and dad. AMDG.
ADELINE FAITH O’MARA (Ensemble) is so grateful to be back with Phoenix alongside such a kind and talented cast! She is currently a junior at RBRHS studying theatre arts. Recent credits include: Little Women (Amy March), Peter and the Starcatcher (Ted, Phoenix Productions), Newsies (Race), and both Joseph…Dreamcoat (Mrs. Potiphar), Cats (Quaxo) at AAT. Addy would like to thank her family, friends, and the entire production staff for their support and making this incredible show possible!
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
RAUL ORTEGA III (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
SUSIE PELTZ
(Ensemble)
is thrilled to be back on the Basie stage with Phoenix Productions after a 16-year hiatus! She was previously seen at the Basie dancing in the 2010 production of Cinderella. For Susie, working with this production team and cast has been an absolute dream come true. Throughout her journey back, she has learned to trust the process and to never stop believing in yourself. Susie dedicates this performance to her army of supporters: SoCo, M-Town, the BestOnes, her mom and dad, loving husband Dan, and her two rockstar daughters, Sammie and Jojo.
JASMINE PLANTT
(Ensemble)
is thrilled to be back at Phoenix for The Little Mermaid. She loves performing on stage and has studied acting in Scotland. Previous Credits: The Color Purple (Church Lady, Phoenix Productions), Newsies (Medda Larkin, Spotlight Players), Once on This Island (Mama Euralie u/s, Phoenix Productions), and Hairspray (Motormouth Maybelle, Main Street Theater). She would like to thank her Mom, family, and friends for supporting her. Enjoy our world “Under the Sea.”
ANTHONY PREUSTER
(Pilot, u/s Chef Louis)
is delighted to return “Under the Sea” after appearing in Phoenix’s production of The Little Mermaid 10 years ago. His love of theatre began here, performing in the children’s chorus of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat in 1996. Favorite Phoenix credits since include: Guys and Dolls (Nathan Detroit), Shrek (Lord Farquaad), Anything Goes (Moonface Martin), Spamalot (Sir Robin), Jesus Christ Superstar (Annas), Miss Saigon (Schultz), and Hair (Woof). He dedicates these performances to the memory of Cat Tierney and Tim Slisky.
TIFFANY QUINBY (Ensemble)
graduated with a bachelor’s degree in dance from Georgian Court University. She has also trained at the Joffrey Ballet School’s summer intensive program. She is excited for her first role with Phoenix Productions in the Ensemble of The Little Mermaid!
ARIEL SANCHEZ-BELLO (Ensemble, u/s Prince Eric) is thrilled to be returning to the Basie stage in a show where his name gets said about 100 times. Previous Phoenix credits include: Gordon/Mark u/s (RENT), Pepe (West Side Story), and Nikos Argitakos/GrandMasta Chad (Legally Blonde). Ariel would love to thank his father Jose, brothers Jordie and Joshua, and the cast and crew for keeping him sane during this process. Ariel would like to dedicate these performances to his best friend Felix watching him from above. Enjoy the show!
ISABELLA SISO (Arista)
is overjoyed to be a part of her 5th 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: Miracle on 34th Street (Ensemble; Phoenix Productions), 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
GABRIEL ANGEL VALLE (Ensemble, u/s Flotsam/Jetsam)
would like to thank the team at Phoenix Productions for this wonderful opportunity to go “Under the Sea” at the Count Basie! If you would like to see any of Gabriel’s credits, you can see them @gabrielangelvalle on IG. Gabriel is proud to be a swing of both Flotsam and Jetsam, it has been a profound and rewarding experience. Sadly, on the contrary to their performance, Gabriel cannot breathe underwater, make fish fillet, or sail a boat. Lastly, Gabriel wants to thank their family and friends for the endless support.
HUDSON VELTRI (Ensemble)
is a 12 year old who is a black belt, plays both basketball and soccer, drums and acts. This is Hudson’s 10th production, but his first with Phoenix Productions. He is beyond excited to be performing on the Count Basie stage with this incredibly talented cast and crew! Break legs, everyone!
CLAIRA WILLIAMS (Andrina)
is thrilled to be a part of her first Phoenix production! She is a current sophomore at Rider University where she is getting her BFA in Musical Theatre. Recent credits include: Parade (Broadway Theatre of Pitman) and Oh Em Gee They Sang This On Glee (54 Below). Other than performing, she is currently co-producing/directing an all female identifying gender-bent cabaret at The Green Room 42 entitled Oh To Be A Man In A Musical. She would like to thank the cast and crew, her family and her friends for their continuous love and support.
WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST
ALEXA WESSEL (Ensemble)
is thrilled to be making her Basie stage debut alongside the Phoenix Productions’ cast of The Little Mermaid. Some of Alexa’s previous credits include: Into the Woods (Rapunzel, Queen’s Court Company), and Pippin (Fastrada, Queen’s Court Company). In her free time, Alexa enjoys reading, writing, dancing, and crafting. Alexa is currently in her final year of undergrad at Rutgers University where she is studying English literature and Korean language. She would like to thank Phoenix Productions, her incredible fellow cast mates, the wonderful production team, and her friends and family for believing in and supporting her!
ELENA WORTON (Ensemble)
is excited to be a part of this iconic show! Recent credits: Mary Poppins (Adult Ensemble, Phoenix Productions), Cats (Jennyanydots, Algonquin Arts Theatre), Jesus Christ Superstar (Dance Ensemble, Phoenix Productions). Elena is a music teacher and beginner piano instructor, and she is the keyboardist/backup vocalist for local band The Well Wish. She enjoys songwriting, and her original music can be found on all streaming platforms. Many thanks to the cast, crew and production team! @elenaworton
STEFANIE WORTON (Ensemble, u/s Mersisters) is thrilled to be in another show with Phoenix Productions! Past credits: Mary Poppins (Adult Ensemble, Phoenix Productions), Cats (Jemima, Algonquin Arts Theatre), and The Prom (Teen Ensemble, u/s Alyssa, Phoenix Productions). Stefanie can be heard every Monday morning on Brookdale Public Radio, 90.5 the Night, highlighting local non-profit organizations. She’d like to thank the entire production team, cast, and crew for everything!
LILIANA ZERTUCHE (Ensemble)
is a junior at Henry Hudson Regional High School. She created the Atlantic Cabaret theater group, is choreographing three school shows this spring, and is on Kelly’s Dance Loft’s competition team. Her previous roles include: You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown (Lucy; HHRS), Bye Bye Birdie (Rosie; HHRS), The Drowsy Chaperone (Ensemble; HHRS), West Side Story (Jets Girl; Phoenix Productions), Urinetown (Little Sally; HHRS), Hairspray (Shelley; Middletown Arts Center), Urinetown (Ensemble; Middletown Arts Center), and Be More Chill (Chloe; HHRS). She cannot wait for everyone to see her performance in the Ensemble of The Little Mermaid.
WHO’S WHO ON THE PRODUCTION TEAM
JAMES MARHOLD (Production Manager)
has been a performer, Director and Production Manager at Phoenix for over 35 years! Production credits include: Evil Dead The Musical (Director), Mary Poppins, RENT, In the Heights, Once on This Island, Evita, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, West Side Story, Grease, Legally Blonde, Nice Work …, Spring Awakening, Elf The Musical, Wedding Singer, and Songs for a New World. Thanks to Kathy and Patrick for their love and support! For his friend Michael!
NATALIE HAYES-SCOTT (Director/Choreographer)
is thrilled to be back at the Basie! She began her journey with Phoenix Productions as a teaching artist and performer, playing Sheila in A Chorus Line. Since then, she has directed and choreographed many of Phoenix’s mainstage shows, including last season’s production of RENT and The Color Purple. Thank you to the production team, this beautiful cast, her husband Jarrod, and her family and friends for their continuous support. She dedicates her work to her mom, Susan Hayes-Stasio and sister, Kim Clark.
TEDDY KERNIZAN (Music Director) is a distinguished pianist and Musical Director with a wealth of experience in both music performance and education. He holds a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance and Pedagogy from Westminster Choir College of Rider University (2005) and a Master’s in Piano Performance and Pedagogy from The Catholic University of America (2012). Teddy has served as Choral Director at Ocean Township High School, where he leads the Ocean Choir and Chamber Choir. He has studied conducting under renowned instructors such as Dr. James Jordan, Dr. Andrew Megill, and Lynnel Joy Jenkins. His conducting debut came in 2007 at the Barre Opera House in Vermont, where he conducted Mozart’s Don Giovanni. His recent credits include: Ragtime, In the Heights, Once on This Island, and The Little Mermaid (February 2026) for Phoenix Productions at the Count Basie Center in Red Bank, as well as Anything Goes, Gypsy, SpongeBob the Musical, Cinderella, My Fair Lady, Prom, and Grease with the Spring Lake Theatre Company.
FRAN CENTOFANTE KATZ
(Production Stage Manager) is excited to be teaming up again with Natalie, Teddy, Jim 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 on the Basie stage as Mrs. Greene in The Prom (Broadway World nomination). Phoenix Stage Management credits include: Kinky Boots (Perry award 2025), In the Heights (Perry nomination), Mary Poppins, Once on This Island, Into the Woods, A Christmas Story, 1776, Little Shop of Horrors and The Pirates of Penzance. Thanks to her ASM’s and crew for all of their hard work on this show. Love to Stew, Sydney and Jason!
TOMÁS ALFONSO TORRES (Technical Specialist) is excited to be working on his second 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, exploring 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.
ASHLEY CUSACK (Scenic Designer/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: Kinky Boots, 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.
KYLE SANTOPADRE (Lighting Designer/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 lighting designs include: The Color Purple, Ragtime, Kinky Boots (Phoenix Productions), Dogfight (Villagers). Many thanks to a wonderful production team!
JANNETTE FISHER (Costume Designer) is thrilled to be making her Phoenix Production Costume Design debut for The Little Mermaid; this will be her 5th production with the company, she is always so excited to create and collaborate with Phoenix! She graduated from Montclair State University with a BFA in Production Design, a Minor in Musical Theatre, and a Certification in Hair/Wig and Makeup Artistry. Costuming is her full time career, major passion, and is beyond excited to share this opportunity and experience with her friends, family, and everyone on the team. Thank you to the cast/crew for sharing your grace, love and talent.
DANIEL CANCEL (Assistant Director/Choreographer) is thrilled to be assisting Natalie in this phenomenal production alongside Mia. The three of them are a powerhouse team together. He also wants to thank his Mother and Step Dad 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), RENT (Angel). He has also performed in Little Shop of Horrors (Seymour), Newsies (Davey), and Xanadu (Sonny). Insta: Glitchy.Stitchy
MIA AVENOSO (Assistant Choreographer) is so honored to be a part of this amazing production. Normally at Phoenix Productions Mia is on the stage, but this is her first time being able to be a part of the production team and she is so excited to pursue another dream of hers. She’d like to thank her friends and family who support her everyday, the cast and crew for being so amazing, and Danny and Natalie for being her rocks throughout this whole process.
MANNY JEAN-PIERRE (Assistant Stage Manager) is super excited to be back at Phoenix Productions! After assistant stage managing his first show, Legally Blonde, and crewing his second show, Fiddler on the Roof, he saw what an amazing, welcoming, wonderful company this was. He hopes this is not his last show with this company, and is so excited for you to see this wonderfully talented cast tell this amazing story. Now sit back and enjoy your trip “Under the Sea!”
STEPHANIE SCHOPPE
(Assistant Stage Manager/Sound)
This is Stephanie’s 10th show with Phoenix Productions. Phoenix credits include: PSM for A Christmas Carol the Musical, The Addams Family, Ragtime, Peter and the Starcatcher; ASM for Spamalot, Elf The Musical, Wedding Singer; stage crew for Young Frankenstein, Miracle on 34th Street. She is a two-time NJACT Perry Award nominee for Outstanding Stage Management (Ragtime, Peter and the Starcatcher). She is also stage manages for Dunbar Repertory Company in Middletown and Plays-in-the-Park in Edison. Thank you James, Natalie, Teddy, Jim, Fran, Manny, Keira, and the entire cast and production team for their hard work on this beautiful show!
JO WYMER (Assistant Stage Manager/Flight)
is a Vocologist, Navy Veteran, 2x AMA award winner, 2x Grammy nominee for her original music for TV & Film and Count Basie Center Turner Academy of the Arts Teaching Artist. Phoenix credits: Fiddler on the Roof (Assistant Stage Manager), The Prom (Production Stage Manager), Ragtime (Properties), Once on This Island (Properties), Evil Dead The Musical (2022 & 2023) (Production Stage Manager), Guys and Dolls (Production Stage Manager), In the Heights (2023) (Associate Production Manager), The Wizard of Oz (Assistant Stage Manager/Flight Supervisor). Past Phoenix roles:
WHO’S WHO ON THE PRODUCTION TEAM
Mamma Mia! (Rosie Mulligan), In the Heights (2018, Abuela Claudia), Evita (Juana Duarte/Aristocrat). 2023 NJACT Perry Award Nominee and Phoenix Award winner for Outstanding Stage Management (Guys and Dolls), Phoenix Award winner for Outstanding Properties (Ragtime). An active member of the Stage Managers’ Association(@SMSofUSA). For private coaching with Jo see @jowymermusic or visit www.jowymermusicstudios.com Love to Dan & Hudson. Much gratitude to James Grausam.
ARIANA “ARI” MICHEL HAMBLIN
(Associate Costume Designer/Lead Crafter)
is a graduate from Montclair State University with a BFA in Theatre and Dance, where she focused in Stage Production, concentrating in both scenic and costume. This is her first time working with Phoenix Productions and is excited to be working on such a grand production with an amazing creative team/cast.
ASHANTAH KERR
(Wardrobe Supervisor/Co-Coordinator) is a recent graduate from Montclair State University with a BFA in Theatre with a focus in Stage Management & Costumes. She focuses primarily on the technical side of costume work, using her skills learned through stage management having to do with organization & coordination to help her excel in the areas of wardrobe and costume assistant work. She also has a skillset in costumes crafting, distressing, dyeing, and pattern making, making her a well rounded member of the world of wardrobe. Having done previous work as a costumes stock manager, costume design assistant and co-ordinator on shows such as Mrs. Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library and Lonely Planet at Luna Stage.
JORDYN JARVIS (Makeup Designer/HMU Supervisor) is a performer from Newark, NJ & is excited to be a part of her second Phoenix Production. A proud Afro Latina & NJCU alumni, when she isn’t on stage singing her heart out, she’s behind the scenes bringing the characters to life. Aesthetics and visuals are her passion and as head makeup artist/ makeup designer, she’s fused her own drag experience & artistry to take The Little Mermaid to a new level. “Shout out to the dream team, it takes a village.” Credits include: Kinky Boots (2025) and she’s looking forward to even more shows with Phoenix in the future. You can check out what she’s up to next, where she’s performing as well as other projects on Instagram. @lovergirllondon/ @thelondxnlook
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.
