Issuu

Applause

Nov. 2023 Issue No. 101

2023-2024 PROGRAM IN THIS ISSUE:

The Four Phantoms In Concert November 4 | 7:30 PM

Foreigner: The Historic Farewell Tour November 8 | 7:30 PM

American Ballet Theatre Studio Company November 12 | 7:30 PM

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas November 25 | 7:30 PM

TABLE OF CONTENTS 4 Curtain Raisers

49 Board of Trustees

Marquee Society

49 Administration and Staff

RiverCenter Members

50 Important Information

48 Volunteers

52 Ticket Information 1

A MESSAGE from our Director

Our highly anticipated 2023-24 season continues with the variety and quality of programming for which RiverCenter is known. Our season includes everything from a graphic novel on film to classical ballet, Renée Fleming, Amy Grant, Foreigner, and more! Broadway titles include the heartwarming, and what some call transformational Come From Away, and the exuberant, no holds barred On Your Feet! An old favorite— Mannheim Steamroller Christmas—returns, followed by a newly discovered, talented Irish Tenor—Emmet Cahill. We have added two silent pictures to our series featuring THE WAVE, making three in all—Phantom of the Opera (1925), Metropolis (1927), and Wings (1927). And what would the holidays in Columbus be like without the RiverCenter Gingerbread Village? RiverCenter has been serving the Columbus region for more than twenty years and we are rapidly approaching our 25th anniversary. RiverCenter has been steadfast in supporting the Columbus Symphony Orchestra and the Youth Orchestra of Greater Columbus, in presenting varied programs with many free opportunities for the community to experience the finest concerts and touring entertainment, and in providing affordable topquality services to the performing arts. As a key factor in the economic development of our region, RiverCenter contributes millions of dollars to the local economy supporting jobs, household incomes, and other ancillary enterprises and services—all procured from local businesses. As we approach our twenty-fifth year, we hope that you will look forward to more great seasons of entertainment. We also hope you will explore ways to help us upgrade and maintain aging mechanical systems to refresh this magnificent facility for generations to come. We appreciate you taking the time to visit us. Thank you for your continuing support of RiverCenter and thank you for helping Columbus be the best that it can be through your support of the arts community! Here’s to warming hearts and lifting spirits!

Norman S. Easterbrook, Executive Director 2

eason S 2024

The 2023 Spider-Man Into the Spider-Verse in Concert August 26

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas November 25

Forbidden Broadway September 22

2023 Gingerbread Village November 29December 19

The Adventures of Tortoise and Hare—The Next Generation October 1 & 2 STOMP October 22 & 23 The Phantom of the Opera Silent Film with THE WAVE October 28 The Four Phantoms in Concert November 4 Foreigner: The Historic Farewell Tour November 8 American Ballet Theatre Studio Company November 12

Christmas with THE WAVE December 2 Giraffes Can't Dance February 13 Metropolis Silent Film with THE WAVE February 17 Celebrate THE WAVE with Ken Double February 18 Drum Tao February 22 Come From Away February 29 Emmet Cahill: Songs of Ireland March 1

Johnny Cash: The Official Concert Experience March 2 360 AllStars: Urban Circus March 22 On Your Feet March 29

Renée Fleming April 5 & 6 Disney Princess: The Concert April 11 Amy Grant April 16 Voctave: The Corner of Broadway & Main Street April 25 Wings Silent Film with THE WAVE May 4 Pretty Woman May 15

Curtain Raisers

Thank you to our Curtain Raisers! As a 501(c)3 organization, RiverCenter depends on the generosity of corporations to help present world-class artists and offer varied educational opportunities. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts offers one-of-a-kind, tailor-made opportunities for businesses and organizations to invest in the arts and arts education, while increasing visibility as a philanthropic leader in the Columbus region. Performances at RiverCenter would not be possible without the goodwill of our sponsors. A wide range of sponsorship opportunities are available, including theatre productions, events, special projects, education and outreach initiatives and can be customized to meet sponsors’ specific interests and needs, beginning at $1,500. We would love to hear from you and discuss becoming a partner with RiverCenter. Please contact our Director of Development, Denise Dowdy at development@rivercenter.org or call 706-256-3653. Our sponsors help us impact and transform thousands of lives through the arts and education. Based on donations as of September 29, 2023:

SEASON SPONSOR

B R O A D WAY O N B R O A D WAY S P O N S O R

PRESENTING SPONSOR

SHOW SPONSOR

B E N E FA C T O R S P O N S O R

DIAMOND SPONSOR

P L AT I N U M S P O N S O R

GOLD SPONSOR

GENERAL PROGRAM SUPPORT

Thank You to Our Supporters! RiverCenter for the Performing Arts would not be possible without the help and generosity of our wonderful community. We are so thankful for all of the donors and members who have helped us grow and bring amazing talent to our region for over 20 years! We greatly appreciate each gift given in support of RiverCenter and have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this listing, which was based on donations made as of September 29, 2023. Please notify the Development Office of any inaccuracies or omissions by contacting us at 706.256.3653 or development@rivercenter.org. We regret any errors.

RIVERCENTER

Marquee Society

The Marquee Society is comprised of donors who invest a minimum of $1,000, each season, to the mission of RiverCenter. Members receive distinct benefits to include an annual dinner, members-only events, and advance notification before the general public to purchase single tickets to shows added to the season. Marquee Society members, and their guests, have exclusive admission into the Marquee lounge, pre-show and at intermission, for a private bar and complimentary hors d’oeuvres created by Valley Hospitality.

Every aspect of the Marquee Society emblem has a special meaning. The gears represent our mill history and the collaboration of the Columbus Challenge. The bee in its hive is a powerful symbol of the workers who built the city and RiverCenter. The blue represents our connection to the mighty river and the creative flow of the arts. The gold represents your annual investment and commitment to quality. Each Marquee Society member embodies the spirit and sentiment of this design. To join the Marquee Society, visit rivercenter.org, email development@rivercenter.org, or call 706.256.3653.

MARQUEE SOCIETY MEMBERS —–———————————— P RO D U C E R —–———————————— Ray M. and Jane R. Wright Foundation

—————————————– D I R E C TO R ——–——————————— Mr. and Mrs. Stephen T. Butler

Steeplechase at Callaway Gardens

———————————— C U RTA I N C A L L ———————————— Mrs. Clifford J. Swift, III

———————————— B E N E FAC TO R ———————————— Bernard and Sylvia Witt Foundation James G. and Kathryn A. Hillenbrand Dr. and Mrs. David Levine Mr. and Mrs. John C. Martin, II

Al and Betsy Ramsay Katherine and Wright Waddell Wade and Adrianne Wallace Mrs. Janice M. Watson

————————————– D I A M O N D ————–———————— Mr. and Mrs. Roderick C. Hunter Akitoshi and Etsuko Kan Mr. and Mrs. Jack J. Pease, III David and Linell Pringle Dr. and Mrs. Richard Robbins Stephen M. Sawyer

Mr. and Mrs. William P. Scarbrough Judy W. Thomas Rick and Jan Ussery Mr. and Mrs. M. Troy Woods James D. and Ruth B. Yancey

————————————– P L AT I N U M ————————————– Fred and Catalina Aranas Family Foundation Maria Luisa Aranas Ms. Betty L. Auten Susan Berry Bernice and Mansfield Bias Mr. and Mrs. Walker R. Bickerstaff Mrs. Doris Black Mr. and Mrs. James H. Blanchard Ms. Lucy H. Bowers Mr. and Mrs. Richard Y. Bradley Kay Broda Mrs. Charles W. Burgin Mrs. Forrest L. Champion, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Cecil Cheves Creek Stand Partners, LP Danny and Sandra Dawson Mr. and Mrs. Norman S. Easterbrook Mr. and Mrs. Thad Estes Suzanne and Joel Fine Loretta and Tom Flowers Gardiner and Nora Garrard Cindy and Spencer Garrard

GB & Charlotte A. Saunders Foundation Inc Dr. and Mrs. Jerry Goldsmith Mrs. Richard Hallock The Hecht Family Fund, Community Foundation of the Chattahoochee Valley Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth M. Henson, Jr. Helen J. Hobbs The June and Bruce Howard Family Charitable Gift Fund Dr. William P. Kendall Ashok and Mary Kumar Mr. and Mrs. John T. Laney, III Kayron and John Laska Elaine and John Laughbaum Dr. and Mrs. Thomas W. Lawhorne, Jr. Hank and Mary Lewis Dr. Robert and Jane Marcus Ben and Annelle McCosh Chris and Wendy Miller Jimmy and Barbara Motos Marjorie and Jerry Newman 7

————————– P L AT I N U M (Continued) ————————–

John and Sam Newton Mrs. Sam Rawls Mr. and Mrs. Jefferson C. Reed Dr. Carole Rutland and Col. (Ret) Robert D. Offer Marnie Salter The Honorable Julia Willcox-Lumpkin Sando and Colonel Donald Mark Sando, U.S. Army, Retired Alex and Willette Shalishali Mr. and Mrs. John A. Shinkle Mollie Smith Jay and Cindy Sparks Mr. and Mrs. Charles T. Staples

Susan Stephenson Patty Kimbrough Taylor Mr. and Mrs. Steve Taylor Chip and Audrey Tillman Tom and Jackie Titus Mr. and Mrs. Philip Tomlinson Martha S. Tubb Mr. and Mrs. John T. Turner Mr. and Mrs. Brad Turner Dr. Joan and Lt. Col. (R) Darryl Verrett Dr. Linda L. Walker and Dr. Steven E. Reissman Chris Weaver

RIVERCENTER MEMBERS G O L D L EV E L

Regina Satlof and Neil Block Bob and Linda Carter Ed and Lana Helton Mrs. Stephen C. Hunter Pam and Charlie Johnson Charlyn Kerr

Mr. and Mrs. Justin Krieg Mr. and Mrs. Anthony D. Link Gene and Meg Perkins Dr. Angela Sims and John Sims Murray and Celia Solomon

B RO N Z E L EV E L

Anonymous Jacob and Claire Beil Revs. Taylor and Grace Burton-Edwards Don and Bobbie Dakin Mr. and Mrs. Steven Daknis Mr. and Mrs. Austin Gibson

Mr. and Mrs. David Hay Rem and Leila Houser Mr. and Mrs. William R. Peek Joyce and Henry Schwob CH (COL) and Mrs. Thomas Waynick, USA, Ret. Jim and Ann White

F R I E N D S O F R I V E RC E N T E R

Anonymous Renee Beam Elizabeth A. Bloodgood Peggie and Dan Bloodworth Jim and Iveta Boyanchek Sherida Brannan Dr. and Mrs. Philip L. Brewer Frank and Jo Ann Brown Bill and Janie Lee Bullock Mike and Kathy Burns Ann Burr Butch and Eva Chappelle Kelly and Martha Dimon 8

Henry Farmer Ms. Geraldine W. Goodman Steve and Mary Hall Ken Hamill Dr. and Mrs. Steven Henslee Kevin and Donna Kelly LTC Patricia A. Krause USA Ret. Anne Messner Dr. Barbara and Leon Minsky Wayne and Harriet Moultrie Mr. and Mrs. Richard Olson Frank Postle Stacy Poydasheff

F R I E N D S O F R I V E RC E N T E R (Continued)

Sally Rotunno Mr. and Mrs. James Kimbrough Sheek, IV Guy Ashton and Marianne Smith

Lois M. Tryon Dr. Thomas A. and Sherry F. Wade Pat and Jack Wilensky Dave and Jane Wilson

H O N O R A RY A N D M E M O R I A L G I F T S

In memory of Dr. Davis Ronald Watson, Sr. Mrs. Janice M. Watson

In memory of Bob Poydasheff Stacey Poydasheff

VIRGINIA NORMAN CLASSICAL MUSIC FUND

Mrs. W. Mizell Alexander Ms. Lucy H. Bowers Mr. and Mrs. Richard Y. Bradley Bill and Janie Lee Bullock Ann Burr Dr. Bonnie Ellis and William Ellis Gardiner and Nora Garrard Cindy and Spencer Garrard Robert and Susan Hiers Mr. Michael and Dr. Betty Hipps Helen J. Hobbs Mrs. Stephen C. Hunter

Jean and Gerald Kent Mary Dana Knight Mr. and Mrs. John C. Martin, II Jimmy and Barbara Motos Mr. and Mrs. Richard Olson Dr. and Mrs. Richard Robbins Dr. and Mrs. Hugh I. Rodgers Ms. Christina Stavitski Mrs. Clifford J. Swift, III Katherine and Wright Waddell Mrs. Janice M. Watson

B R I C K S O N B ROA D WAY

(Purchases and donations since January 2023)

Ms. Renee Beam Mr. and Mrs. Robert Benson Mr. Peter Bowden Ms. Sherida Brannan Ms. Rae Broadnax Dr. and Mrs. William J. Bullock Mr. and Mrs. Mike J. Burns Mrs. Jodi Capan Mr. Paul Cluverius Mr. and Mrs. Billy Daniels Ms. Melanie Ernst Mr. Phil Evers Dr. and Mrs. Jerry Goldsmith Ms. Geraldine W. Goodman Ms. Adelita Greeson Mr. and Mrs. Alan Harkness Mr. Aric Jackson Dr. and Mrs. Thomas W. Lawhorne Mr. and Mrs. James Messner

Ms. Brigitta Meyer-Green Mr. and Mrs. Chris Miller Dr. Barbara Minsky Mr. Joel Moore Ms. Marcia Morris Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy H. Motos Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Moultrie Ms. Irene Alexich Pate Mr. and Mrs. David L. Pringle Ms. Regina Ridgley RiverCenter Ushers Christian Sanchez Mrs. Emilie Schario Mr. and Mrs. John A. Shinkle Mr. and Mrs. Art Thomason Ms. Kyera Thompson Ms. Sharita Trimuel Dr. Linda Walker and Dr. Steven E. Reissman Mr. Mark Weitzel

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this list; however, it is possible that errors have been made. If so, please accept our sincere apologies and bring them to the attention of our Development Office, development@rivercenter.org or 706.256.3653.

BECOME a RIVERCENTER MEMBER Ticket sales meet only a fraction of RiverCenter’s operating expenses. The balance is covered by members, donations, and sponsorships. The generosity of many individuals and corporations enables RiverCenter to bring nationally touring Broadway shows and world class artists to the Columbus region. For a full list of benefits, visit rivercenter.org.

MEMBERS' VALUE TO RIVERCENTER:

HIGHLIGHTS OF MEMBER BENEFITS:

» Increases the exceptional programming offered

» Complimentary donors-only events

» Maintains modern facilities that are home to the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, Columbus Ballet, Schwob School of Music and community events like the annual Miss Georgia Competition, the Maneuver Center of Excellence Band’s holiday concert, the Georgia Thespian Conference and many more

» Recognition on RiverCenter website

» Impacts and inspires diverse communities by providing access to the arts

» Complimentary beverage coupons » Distinguished in Applause Program » Exclusive access to box office liaison » Courtesy backstage tour of theatre with the Executive Director (by appointment only) » Ticket insurance for lost or stolen tickets » Early notice of new season announcement » Access to presales for single tickets or season subscriptions » Ticket exchange privileges (within the same Broadway show)

*benefits vary based on level of membership *benefits subject to availability or deadline, restrictions may apply

RiverCenter’s Capstone Society, founded by the late Wendell Lewis, is our planned giving program. For over 20 years, families have enjoyed programs and productions at RiverCenter. Through a planned gift, members of the Capstone Society are creating a lasting legacy for future generations so they can enjoy the same magical experience of the theatre. When you include RiverCenter in your estate plans, you will be included into our Capstone Society of donors, and we are pleased to recognize your generosity. If you would like to let us know about your planned gift, or to learn how your planned gift can help RiverCenter in its artistic and educational mission, please contact our Director of Development, Denise D. Dowdy, at 706.256.3653 or development@rivercenter.org. 10

BROADWAY BROADWAYON ON BROADWAY

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Media Sponsors

N OVE MBER 4 | 7:30 PM

WHO’S WHO IN THE CAST BRENT BARRETT Brent Barrett has entertained millions of fans around the world from the stages of Broadway, the West End, concert halls, recording studios, and television. He recently reprised his role as Billy Flynn in the Tony Award winning hit, CHICAGO-The Musical, for which he received a LA Drama Critics Award. Prior to his Broadway return, he relocated to Las Vegas where he was asked to open the new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom-The Las Vegas Spectacular. Brent starred in the title role for two years to sold-out houses at the Venetian Hotel. Brent received an Olivier Award nomination for his starring role in the London premiere of the Tony Award-winning Broadway revival of Kiss Me, Kate. His acclaimed performance was recorded for broadcast on PBS and is available on DVD. He also starred in the City Center Encores! production of The Pajama Game and as King Arthur in the Paper Mill Playhouse production of Camelot. Other Broadway roles include Frank Butler in the Broadway revival of Irving Berlin's Annie Get Your Gun opposite Reba McEntire, Charles Castleton in the Alan Jay Lerner musical Dance a Little Closer, and Baron Felix Von Gaigern in Grand Hotel. JOHN CUDIA John Cudia holds the distinct honor of being the first and only actor to have performed both as the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera and Jean Valjean in Les Misérables on Broadway. John’s most recent Broadway run counted him as only the 12th performer to play the Phantom in its historic, record-breaking 30 plus years. John played Jean Valjean at the Marriott Theater in Chicago where his performance earned him the Joseph Jefferson Award for “best actor in a musical.” John proudly made his Broadway debut in Les Misérables and enjoyed a long and successful relationship with both Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera. John’s third Broadway credit was as cover to Juan Peron in Evita with Ricky Martin as Che. John toured the United States and Canada as the Phantom and also has the role of Raoul on Broadway and the North American tour to his credit. John has helped develop new works for the theatre with Roundabout Theatre, the Banff Theatre Centre, Paper Mill Playhouse, and composers Jonathon Dove, Frank Wildhorn, and Maury Yeston. John is equally at home on Opera, Theater, and Concert stages. A lyric tenor, he proudly made his Lyric Opera of Chicago debut as Curly in their production of Oklahoma! for Vancouver Opera, John most recently sang Count Danilo in The Merry Widow. Previously for Vancouver Opera, he sang Cassio in Otello and Juan Peron in Evita. For Indianapolis Opera, he created the role of Dr. Woodly in the World Premiere of Happy Birthday Wanda June by Richard Auldon Clark with Libretto by Indiana’s own Kurt Vonnegut. For Lyric Opera of the North, he sang the Duke in Rigoletto and Alfredo in La Traviata. 14

FRANC D’AMBROSIO Franc D’Ambrosio is best known for his impressive portrayal of the lead role in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Tony Award-winning musical, The Phantom of the Opera. Affectionately known as the “Iron Man of the Mask,” Franc held the title of “The World’s Longest-Running Phantom” for more than a decade after bringing over five million theatre-goers to their feet in a six and one-half year run. Franc’s resume also includes an Academy Award nominated film where he played the opera-singing son of Al Pacino and Diane Keaton in the seven-time Academy Award nominated film, Godfather III. He also sang the Academy Award winning theme song of the movie, “Speak Softly Love,” for both the film and the soundtrack. His performances of the theme song have garnered over one million hits on YouTube. Having previously studied with Luciano Pavarotti and at the famed Vocal Academy of Lucca in Italy, Franc quickly cultivated a passion for his Italian roots and culture. Franc founded the Lorenzo Malfatti Accademia Vocale di Lucca, where he teaches his craft to young opera students each summer. Franc also lectures at music schools throughout the United States and Europe, including conservatories in Spoleto and Florence, Italy, and the famed Juilliard School in New York City. Franc has toured extensively throughout the world with his critically-acclaimed one-man shows. CIARÁN SHEEHAN Ciarán Sheehan, a native of Dublin, Ireland, has performed the role of the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera to critical acclaim both on Broadway and in Toronto, Canada. Other Broadway roles include Raoul in The Phantom of the Opera, and Babet and Marius in Les Misérables. Broadway concerts include Sir Dinadan in Camelot with Jeremy Irons, and Woody in Finian's Rainbow opposite Melissa Errico. As a member of The Irish Rep, Ciarán has appeared in many of their productions including Hal Prince's Grandchild of Kings, and Frank McCourt's The Irish...And How They Got That Way. Ciarán has had the great honor to sing the memorial mass for John and Carolyn Kennedy, and the funeral mass for Beau Biden, at the request of Vice President Joe Biden, both televised worldwide. Ciarán has performed in three PBS Specials: The Irish...And How They Got That Way, From Galway to Broadway, and Ciarán an Evening With Friends. KALEY ANN VOORHEES Kaley Ann Voorhees is best known for her portrayal of Christine in Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera on Broadway. She is the youngest to play the role on Broadway at the Majestic Theatre, starting her run at the age of 20. She was also in the original Japanese and Broadway cast of Prince of Broadway and made her opera debut in New York City Opera’s Candide. She was formerly a BFA Musical Theatre major at Point Park University, and the recipient of the Jean L. Pettit Memorial Scholarship Competition, which gave her the opportunity to sing as a soloist with the Cleveland Pops Orchestra at Severance Hall at the age of 18. 15

CENTER STAGE BROADWAY ON BROADWAY THE HISTORIC FAREWELL TOUR

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N OVE MBE R 8 | 7:30 PM

With 10 multi-platinum albums and 16 Top 30 hits, FOREIGNER is universally hailed as one of the most popular rock acts in the world with a formidable musical arsenal that continues to propel sold-out tours and album sales, now exceeding 80 million. Responsible for some of rock and roll’s most enduring anthems including “Juke Box Hero,” “Cold As Ice,” “Hot Blooded,” “Waiting For A Girl Like You,” “Feels Like The First Time,” “Urgent,” “Head Games,” “Say You Will,” “Dirty White Boy,” “Long, Long Way From Home” and the worldwide #1 hit, “I Want To Know What Love Is,” FOREIGNER still rocks the charts more than 40 years into the game with massive airplay and continued Billboard Top 200 album success. Audio and video streams of FOREIGNER’s hits are approaching 15 million per week. With more Top 10 songs than Journey and as many as Fleetwood Mac, FOREIGNER also features strongly in every category in Billboard’s “Greatest of All Time” listing. At times, the band’s weekly catalog sales have eclipsed those of Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, the Rolling Stones, the Who, Def Leppard, Van Halen, Aerosmith and most of their Classic Rock peers (Source: Nielsen SoundScan). FOREIGNER‘s catalog sales were recently celebrated in Business Insider as hitting the Top 40 among the Best Selling Music Artists of All Time. Founded in 1976, FOREIGNER‘s debut album produced the hits “Feels Like The First Time,” “Cold As Ice” and “Long, Long Way From Home.” The album Double Vision followed, as did a string of hits including “Urgent,” “Juke Box Hero” and “Waiting For A Girl Like You.” Those songs helped give FOREIGNER‘s next album, 4, its impressive run at #1 on the Billboard chart. At the zenith of 80’s sound, FOREIGNER‘s fifth album, Agent Provocateur, gave the world the incredible #1 global hit,” I Want To Know What Love Is.” This musical milestone followed the record- breaking song “Waiting For A Girl Like You.” FOREIGNER‘s founder is Songwriters Hall of Fame member Mick Jones. A visionary maestro whose stylistic songwriting, indelible guitar hooks and multi-layered talents continue to escalate FOREIGNER‘s influence and guide the band to new horizons. Jones reformed the band after a 2002 hiatus and selected lead singer Kelly Hansen to help write an inspired new chapter in the history of FOREIGNER. One of rock’s greatest showmen, Hansen is among the most respected, consummate professionals in rock and roll. With a 40year career that spans almost every area of music, from the role of lead vocalist to producing and engineering, Hansen has led FOREIGNER into the digital age while inspiring a whole new generation of fans. FOREIGNER’s lineup also includes noted Dokken bassist Jeff Pilson, Michael Bluestein on keyboards, guitarist Bruce Watson, Chris Frazier on drums and guitarist Luis Carlos 24

Maldonado. An unprecedented new level of energy led the group to a re-emergence of astounding music that speaks to FOREIGNER‘s enduring popularity. With renewed vitality and direction, FOREIGNER hit the Billboard charts again with the 2005 release of their live Greatest Hits album, Extended Versions. Can’t Slow Down followed in 2009 and entered the Billboard chart in the Top 30, driven by two Top 20 radio singles, “In Pieces” and “When It Comes To Love.” To follow was the release of the band’s three-disc set, Feels Like The First Time, which included an acoustic CD with an intimate and unique reinterpretation of many FOREIGNER classics, studio re-records by the new lineup and a live performance DVD showcasing the group’s exceptional live energy. FOREIGNER’s music experienced another surge in popularity in recent years thanks to usage in primetime television, major motion pictures, video games, advertising, and digital content. Films such as Rock of Ages, Bad Moms, Angry Birds, Magic Mike, Pitch Perfect, Good Boys and The Eternals, and television shows Orange Is The New Black, Stranger Things, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and Tacoma FD have all strongly featured Foreigner’s songs. Advertisers including Toyota, Google, Molson, and Ford have turned to FOREIGNER’s music to engage their fans. In May 2014, Atlantic Records Chairman Craig Kallman presented the band with RIAA gold and platinum digital awards for six FOREIGNER songs. These awards signify 500,000 and 1,000,000 downloads of FOREIGNER hits. That is more individual awards than any other heritage rock band, and an illustration of FOREIGNER’s resonance in the digital era. In recent years, FOREIGNER has headlined several Live Nation tours, rocking across the country and the world with contemporaries and friends. In 2014, FOREIGNER headlined The Soundtrack of Summer US amphitheater tour with Styx and Don Felder. A hits compilation album of the same name was released to coincide with the tour and immediately hit the Billboard Top 200 chart. In 2015, FOREIGNER joined Kid Rock on his “Cheap Date: First Kiss Tour.” In October 2016, FOREIGNER hit a major milestone when the band performed for the very first time at New York’s iconic Carnegie Hall with a sold-out acoustic show. The concert highlighted the band’s ongoing relationship with the GRAMMY Museum’s initiative to promote music education in our nation’s schools. It included an a cappella contest among New York high schools who competed for a $5,000 prize donated by the band. The year also brought the release of FOREIGNER‘s first ever live acoustic album In Concert: Unplugged, recorded at a once-in-a-lifetime private concert hosted by Edsel B. Ford II at the Ford Motor Company Conference & Event Center in Detroit, MI. The band’s royalties were donated to JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) and the album is available exclusively via Amazon. The year 2017 marked the celebration of FOREIGNER‘s 40th anniversary. The Warner Music Group released a double CD set “40,” which includes 40 songs recorded between 1977 and 2017. The album spent several weeks on the Billboard Top 200 chart and it features two tracks recorded especially for this release, “Give My Life For Love” and a new version of “I Don’t Want To Live Without You.” The album spent nine weeks in the Billboard Top 200 chart. The US anniversary headline tour played 40 shows across the United States where the band was supported by Cheap Trick and Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Experience. In April 2018, FOREIGNER topped the Billboard Classic Album Charts for the first time with FOREIGNER WITH THE 21ST CENTURY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA & CHORUS, a live recording of FOREIGNER’s first-ever orchestral shows in Lucerne, Switzerland. The band went on to headline orchestral shows in the US, Europe, Australia and New Zealand throughout the year including sold-out appearances at London’s Royal Albert Hall and the iconic Sydney Opera House. In the summer of 2018, FOREIGNER starred in a thirty city Live Nation US summer tour with Whitesnake and Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening in support. The excitement continued in 2019 with the premiere of Juke Box Hero, the Musical in Canada. Following a series of sold-out workshops in Alberta and Calgary, the musical premiered in 25

Toronto in February and a Broadway run is on the horizon. The November 2019 release of Double Vision: Then & Now is a DVD/CD package that celebrates the 40th anniversary of the iconic album. It features a stunning reunion concert that brings together the current and original band members playing all the hits at the top of their game. 2020 kicked off with a three-day run at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center with the Nashville Symphony Orchestra in mid January. Another highlight was a sold out January/ February residency at The Venetian, Las Vegas. The Covid-19 nightmare forced the band to postpone almost a hundred shows all over the world including a sold out show with Whitesnake at the 18,000 seat London 02 Arena. The Covid impact on the live concert business continued through much of 2021, although by careful observation of health protocols, Foreigner was able to execute a limited, but highly successful touring schedule breaking box office records in many markets. Following spectacular shows at LA’s Greek Theater and the Santa Barbara Bowl, the band embarked on a run of theater and major casino dates and other special events. These included appearances at Detroit’s Fox Theatre and the Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena in Atlantic City. Another highlight was an appearance at the Annual Gala of the American Turkish Society, which celebrated the life of Mick Jones’ and Foreigner’s guiding light at Atlantic Records, Ahmet Ertegun. The year culminated with FOREIGNER’S appearance at the spectacular Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. 2022 commenced with a three-week residency at the Venetian Resort in Las Vegas and the rescheduled co-headline UK tour with Whitesnake, and solo headline shows across Europe. The year continued with an exciting schedule of headline appearances that included the New York State Fair, where Foreigner’s 38,888 plus audience broke the Classic Rock attendance record, and a run of sold-out amphitheater shows with Kid Rock. In the fall, Foreigner returned to international touring with sold out shows in France, Holland, Israel, and South Africa. FOREIGNER announced the beginning of their Farewell Tour on national television on November 14, 2022. The tour commenced on July 6, 2023 in Alpharetta, GA, and the goal is to get to all the cities that the band has played since its reformation in 2004. More about FOREIGNER—including individual band member bios, tour dates, merchandise, and more—can be found on the band’s official website, www.foreigneronline.com.

706.576.5729 • cedarhillcpas.com PR O UD SUPP ORTER OF RIVER CENTER F OR THE PERF OR MI NG A RT S 26

ARTSREACH BROADWAY ON BROADWAY

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N OVE MBE R 12 | 7:30 PM

American Ballet Theatre

For tonight's program information, scan here:

Susan Jaffe - Artistic Director and Interim Executive Director

American Ballet Theatre Studio Company Sascha Radetsky – Artistic Director Claire Florian – Managing Director Yan Chen – Rehearsal Director Audrey Schultz – Production Manager Arron Scott – Tour Associate

ABT Apprentice Dancers Madison Brown, Finnian Carmeci, Kyra Coco, Takumi Miyake, Sylvie Squires, Alejandro Valera Outlaw

or visit:

www.abt.org/abt-studiocompany-columbus-ga-2023

ABT Studio Company Dancers Max Barker, Kayke Carvalho, YeonSeo Choi, Brady Farrar, Elijah Geolina, Lilia Greyeyes, Arisu Hirata, Chaeyeon Kang, Audrey Lynn, Vince Pelegrin

ABOUT THE COMPANY ABT Studio Company, the junior company of American Ballet Theatre, is currently made up of 16 rising stars of the ballet world between the ages of 17 and 21. ABT Studio Company prepares these outstanding young dancers, who hail from all over the globe, to enter American Ballet Theatre or other leading ballet companies worldwide. 80% of current dancers in American Ballet Theatre are alumni of ABT Studio Company, including 14 Principal Dancers and 6 Soloists. ABT Studio Company serves as an ambassador for American Ballet Theatre by engaging with communities in a range of venues worldwide, performing masterworks of the classical and neoclassical canons alongside contemporary and newly created works. Each season, ABT Studio Company commissions new ballets from emerging and established choreographers, with a special focus on female choreographers. To learn more about ABT Studio Company, visit www.abt.org/abtstudiocompany or follow ABT Studio Company on Instagram at @abtstudioco. American Ballet Theatre recognizes the following donors for their extraordinary giving in support of ABT Studio Company: Sofia Elizalde, Patricia R. Morton, James M. and Nora C. Orphanides, Rockefeller Brothers Fund, and The Ted and Mary Jo Shen Charitable Gift Fund. Additional support provided by Edward "Chip" Beam in loving memory of John and Jack, Sandra and Charles Carmeci, Mr. and Mrs. Peter L. Malkin, The Agnes Varis Fund, Constance A. Woo, and four anonymous donors. ABT gratefully acknowledges Mark Casey and Carrie Gaiser Casey for their leading support of ABT’s Apprentice Program. Commissions and presentations of new work by women choreographers are supported by the ABT Women’s Movement. Champion support for the ABT Women’s Movement is provided by Jenna Segal. Leadership support of ABT’s New Works initiatives is provided by Mark Casey and Carrie Gaiser Casey, The Ted and Mary Jo Shen Charitable Gift Fund, and through an endowed gift from the Toni and Martin Sosnoff New Works Fund. Special thanks to Denise Littlefield Sobel for her leadership gifts to: ABT Today Fund, advancing the Company's mission; and ABT RISE, fueling the Company’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. ABT Studio Company is represented by CAMI Music. 34

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America's Favorite Holiday Tradition! In 1984 Mannheim Steamroller released Mannheim Steamroller Christmas, an album that revolutionized the holiday music industry. Already a multi-platinum recording artist through its Fresh Aire series, founder Chip Davis decided to record an album of Christmas music combining the group’s signature mix of renaissance instruments with rock & roll beats. The resulting album was a runaway hit and propelled Mannheim Steamroller to become the #1 Christmas music artist in history. This is the group’s 38th annual Christmas tour, the longest running tour in the music industry. The nationwide tour has become a holiday tradition along with decorating the tree, exchanging presents and spending time with friends and family.

ABOUT CHIP DAVIS:

Visionary, Creator, Arranger & Producer A visionary musician and businessman, Chip Davis is behind a remarkable body of work now spanning five decades. Since founding Mannheim Steamroller and American Gramaphone Records in 1974, Davis has written, arranged, and recorded over 35 albums, highlighted by the RIAA multi-platinum certified Mannheim Steamroller catalog. The bestselling Christmas music artist in history with over 31 million Christmas albums sold, the group celebrated the 35th Anniversary of its annual holiday tour in 2019, making it the longest running consecutive tour in the entertainment industry. Davis has achieved worldwide sales of all album titles in excess of 41 million, with four multi-platinum, eight platinum, and 19 gold certifications in the US alone. Furthermore, Davis is the entrepreneur behind the hugely successful Mannheim Steamroller product line, author of nine children’s books, an amateur astronomer, and dedicated philanthropist. The man behind Mannheim was born Louis F. Davis, Jr. in the archetypal small town of Hamler, Ohio (Pop. 500), the son of a family to whom music and “a sensitivity to nature” were integral. He graduated from the University of Michigan in 1969 with mastery in bassoon and percussion before taking on a job at the Omaha, NE ad agency, Bozell & Jacobs. In 1974, Davis 42

and fellow ad exec Bill Fries teamed up to create a fictional truck driver named “C.W. McCall” for a series of Clio Award-winning commercials. A string of hit albums and top 40 singles followed, including the RIAA gold certified #1 classic, “Convoy.” The success of C.W. McCall allowed Davis to focus on his own original music. He dubbed his new band Mannheim Steamroller – a play on the 18th-century musical technique known as the “Mannheim crescendo” – and in 1975 recorded FRESH AIRE, a landmark work melding element of classical, rock, and pop into something altogether unique. Foiled by the industry’s inability to classify a genre for the album, Davis decided to distribute and sell FRESH AIRE on his own and American Gramaphone Records was born. In 1984, Davis had the idea to reinvigorate traditional carols and Yuletide staples via Mannheim Steamroller’s always-eclectic sonic approach. MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CHRISTMAS proved a phenomenon, the band’s first to reach the Billboard 200 album chart on its way to 6x RIAA platinum certification. A FRESH AIRE CHRISTMAS followed in 1988, achieving 6x platinum certification and ultimately surpassing its monumentally successful predecessor to be declared the sixth best-selling holiday album of the SoundScan era. Chip Davis determinedly carries on each day with the original spirit of creative drive and invention that first inspired him. “There wasn’t any business plan when I started American Gramaphone,” he says. “There wasn’t any target I was looking at. It’s always been about just moving forward and doing things I like to do.” ———— www.mannheimsteamroller.com ————

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—–—–———— VOLUNTEERS —–—–———— Made up of devoted, conscientious supporters of the arts, the members of RiverCenter Volunteers work tirelessly in support of the many programs, projects, and activities that RiverCenter produces or hosts. A major portion of the volunteers’ efforts involves ushering at events and assuring that all patrons have an enjoyable experience each time they visit RiverCenter. To receive information about RiverCenter Volunteers, email Latisha Wells at LWells@rivercenter.org. Sharon Adams Charlene Alford Shelley Anderson Sandra Barker Belinda Barron Susan Benson Pamela Blackwell Jenny Brettelle Marie Brooks Fran Brower Ann Marie Buckner Eleanor Buckner Linda Bugh Ethel Bush Cynthia Cain Lois Cain Bobbie Carter Laurie Carwile Linda Cave Ricky Chambers Vivian Chambers Eva Chappelle John Chappelle Theresa Clark Janelle Cox Amber Davis Sharon Dennis Eileen Edwards Ruby Elder Claire Fairchild Debbie Faison Mary Farley

Teri Lynn Ferentz Glenn Fleming Kathleen Foor Dorothy Garza Twakia George Karla Gibbs Laverne Golden Stephanie Gudz Cenneta Gunn Patricia Haden Linda Harvey Sandra Hawthorne Elizabeth Hedges London Hedges Brian Hickson Denise Hickson Mary Hightower Claren Hill Colette Hilliard Creola Howard Janet Jamieson Lynette Jankowski Gloria Johnson Pauline I. Johnson Carolyn Jones Lorrie Kasych Deborah King Marilynn Lambert Karen Lawburgh Carol Lee Audrey Lenig James Lewis

Rachel Lewis Suzanne Maynard Barbara McCarty Robert McCarty Towanda McCray Dennis McShurley Judy Parham Rufus Parham Cynthia Parker Verdis Parks Valerie Porter-Boyce Doretha PresleyBenson Paulette Rameau Ruth Reed-Dorsett Beverly Riley Kirk Roane Sandra Roane Martha Jane Roark Dianne Robinson Linda Rumold Wanda Rutledge Charmaine Samuels Faye Sanford Beverly Schlitzkus Sandra Scott Sabrina Shine Nancy Shipman Miriam Short Nancy Sills Louise Simmons Mary Simonton

Barbara Singleton Sylvia Sledge John Soltau Tessie Soltau Alice Spengler Gail Stafford John Stafford Nancy Story Verlyn Tamlin Edweena Thomas Corey Thompson Karin Thompson Rita Thompson Silvia Thompson Carolyn Tigner Willie Tigner Mike Turner Sandi Voyles Claudette Wade Katherine Walker Richard Walker Meredith Walters Geraldine Watson Howard Watson Matilda White Stephanie Wiley Carol Williams Jane Wilson Yulane Wilson Patricia Young

VOLUNTEERS CELEBRATING 20+ SEASONS Ann Carlisle Laura Chandler Pat Etemadi Shirley Harris 48

Jan Knowles Patty Lin Linda Nerness Joyce Richburg

Dolores Sanchez Rose Slonaker

ou! y k n a Th

2023-24 RIVERCENTER 2023-24 RIVERCENTER INC. BOARD OF TRUSTEES ADMINISTRATION & STAFF Norman S. Easterbrook executive director Stephanie Hunter president Tom Titus past president William Kendall ex officio Brad Clements treasurer Mollie Smith executive committee member at large Joseph Brannan Mike Burns Adrian J. Chester Joanne Cogle Austin Gibson Jeri Hawthorne M. Scott Hill Kayron Laska John Laughbaum Richard Sears Glenda Sexton John T. Sims Cindy Sparks Ty Webb Steve White

EXECUTIVE GROUP Norman S. Easterbrook, Executive Director, CEO Carrie Corbett, Director of Marketing John (J.D.) Davis, Director of Production Denise D. Dowdy, Director of Development Stefan Hagedorn, Director of Finance and Administration Robin Peacock, Director of Facility and Event Operations Jim Rutland, Program Director Latisha Wells, Director of Patron and Customer Services BUSINESS AFFAIRS Stefan Hagedorn, Director of Finance and Administration Shannon Preston, Finance Manager Berkley Beach, Executive Assistant Sarah Winter, Business Affairs Assistant BOX OFFICE Rachel Elliott, Box Office Manager Kaitlin Hartley, Lead Box Office Ticketing Associate Isabelle King, Box Office Ticketing Associate Sarah Osorio, Box Office Ticketing Associate DEVELOPMENT Denise Dowdy, Director of Development Cheryl Roberts, Development Assistant MARKETING Carrie Corbett, Director of Marketing Lauren Bonaker, Marketing Manager OPERATIONS Robin Peacock, Director of Facility and Event Operations Latisha Wells, Director of Patron and Customer Services Joshua Clemmons, Security Lead Ishmun Holcomb, Events and Facilities Coordinator Sable McCulley, Security Lead PRODUCTION John (J.D.) Davis, Director of Production Lance Fraker, Technical Director Dan Gray, Audio Coordinator Kyle Gray, Head Flyman John Land, Stage Manager/Steward Kyle Patton, Lighting Coordinator PROGRAMMING AND EDUCATION Jim Rutland, Program Director Kayla Forgrave, ArtsReach Coordinator

——— IMPORTANT INFORMATION ——— COVID-19 Protocols The safety and well-being of our patrons, staff and artists remains RiverCenter’s top priority. We continue to monitor CDC Covid guidelines and area Covid cases and make updates as needed. RiverCenter continues its enhanced cleaning and disinfecting protocols and, at the current time, masks are welcomed, but not required for patrons or staff. Hand sanitizers are located throughout the lobby. PLEASE REFRAIN FROM ENTERING THE BUILDING IF YOU'RE EXPERIENCING ANY OF THE FOLLOWING SYMPTOMS OR HAVE BEEN IN CONTACT WITH ANYONE WHO TESTED POSITIVE FOR COVID-19 IN THE PAST 15 DAYS: FEVER, COUGH, SHORTNESS OF BREATH OR OTHER RESPIRATORY SYMPTOMS.

Box Office & Parking BOX OFFICE: The box office at RiverCenter, located at the corner of Broadway and Tenth Street, is open Monday–Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. It opens two hours before each performance and remains open through intermission. The box office is not open on federal holidays unless there is an event that day. FREE PARKING: Parking is available in the parking garage directly in front of RiverCenter, 900 Broadway. Parking for those with disabilities is available in front of our main entrance. The garage is managed by the City of Columbus, not RiverCenter.

House Rules NO BABIES IN ARMS: Everyone attending a ticketed event, including all children regardless of age, must have a ticket. BACKSTAGE AREAS RESTRICTED: For safety and security and out of respect for performers’ privacy, patrons are not given access to backstage areas before or after performances. 50

HOUSE OPENING AND LATE ARRIVALS: RiverCenter’s Grand Lobby opens two hours prior to events and seating begins 30 minutes to one hour before curtain. At the discretion of house management and in compliance with artists’ con tractual agreements, latecomers will be seated at appropriate intervals during events. Latecomers may be seated near the entry doors out of courtesy to performers and other patrons. PROHIBITED EQUIPMENT: Please be courteous and turn off devices such as cell phones and pagers. Photography and recording is prohibited in the theatres. SMOKE-FREE POLICY: RiverCenter is a smoke-free facility. Smoking is permitted in outdoor areas only. Thank you for your cooperation.

Special Services ELEVATOR: A patron elevator is located between the entrances to Bill Heard Theatre and Studio Theatre. WHEELCHAIRS: Wheelchairs are available for patrons needing help getting to or from seating. Ushers will provide assistance. AUDIO AIDS: RiverCenter patrons can now take advantage of our new and improved assistive listening system available for all performance halls. The new system utilizes FM radio waves and Wi-Fi signals to provide a superior audio experience. Please visit Guest Services to request a device to ensure your ultimate listening experience. LOST AND FOUND: Found items should be given to an usher for storing with RiverCenter Security. These items are retained by security for 30 days and then donated. Owners may claim lost items by calling 706.256.3630 during regular business hours.

DIGITAL PROGRAMS: Digital versions of programs for performances found in the printed Applause book are now available to view on your mobile phone. Links to the programs can be found by going to rivercenter.org and clicking "Digital Programs" on the menu at the top of the home page or by clicking the “More Info” button on the event and clicking on the link in the show description. BAR SERVICE: Please visit concessions and order from the many beverage and snack options that we have available. Cups with lids, and twist top plastic bottled items purchased from the bar are permitted inside of the theatre. Outside food and beverages are not permitted in the theatre.

Official beverage of RiverCenter

emergency should happen during an event please locate the nearest usher or security team member.

Rent a Venue BILL HEARD THEATRE, STUDIO THEATRE, AND/OR LEGACY HALL: Call 706.256.3607 regarding availability of specific dates on the RiverCenter master calendar. Complete rental fees and policies can be found on rivercenter.org. PATRONS ROOM: The Patrons Room on the mezzanine level may be reserved for private functions by RiverCenter Members and Partners. For information call Jim Rutland at 706.256.3607. ILLGES PLAZA: Event and green space on 10th St. on North Side of Center may be reserved for special events. Call 706.256.3607.

In Case of Emergency

Important Numbers

FIRE NOTICE: Exits are indicated by red “exit” signs. In case of fire or other emergency, please do not run, but walk to the exit nearest to your seat.

Box Office/Event Information 706.256.3612

EMERGENCY NOTIFICATIONS: The RiverCenter emergency phone number is 706.256.3630 and is accessible during event hours. Please provide this number and your seat location to your personal contacts or child care providers. If an

Season Ticket Purchases

706.256.3622

Group Sales

706.256.3612

Rentals 706.256.3607 Volunteer Office

706.256.3652

Marketing / Ad Sales

706.256.3608

Development 706.256.3653 ArtsReach 706.256.3607

——–—— TICKET INFORMATION ——–—— The RiverCenter box office has tickets available for these series and events: Broadway on Broadway, Center Stage, RiverCenter ArtsReach, ArtsReach Matinees, The Wave Theatre Organ Series and the Family Series. Tickets also are available for programs presented by the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, CSU Schwob School of Music, and various third-party presenters. The box office accepts cash, and all major credit cards: VISA, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. SEASON TICKETS: Season tickets may be purchased at the box office, by telephone 706.256.3612 or with order forms in RiverCenter publications and mailings. Season subscriptions can be purchased with savings up to 30% off single seat prices. MY SERIES PACKAGE: Tickets to RiverCenter events may be purchased at a 20% savings as a My Series Package. A My Series Package consists of at least one ticket to at least five events per patron. GIFT CERTIFICATES: Available yearround in any dollar amount at the RiverCenter box office.

SINGLE TICKETS: Single tickets to individual RiverCenter events may be purchased without a service charge at the box office at the corner of Broadway and Tenth Street. For a service charge, tickets also may be purchased online at rivercenter.org TICKETS AT THE DOOR: Tickets to events that are not sold-out may be purchased at the box office beginning two hours before the start of the event. GROUP DISCOUNTS: Most RiverCenter events offer discounts on individual tickets sold to groups of 10 or more. For information call 706.256.3612. SPECIAL DISCOUNTS: Patrons must come to the box office to take advantage of most special promotions and discounts with presentation of appropriate ID. Military, Public Service, Educator and Senior discounts are available on single ticket purchases to most events. Student Rush prices are available all day on the day-of-show at most events. Patrons using vouchers or gift certificates should note deadlines and restrictions that apply. No refunds are given for ticket price variances or special offers.

Applause, the program guide for RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, is published periodically by RiverCenter, Inc. and distributed to patrons of season shows. Each issue includes program and performer information for a group of contemporaneous performances and general information about RiverCenter programming, facilities, donor members, sponsors and staff.