Annual Report 2023/24
The Grand Theatre acknowledges that we are located on the traditional territories of the Original storytellers and caretakers o f this land, and of the Nations, both settler and Indigenous, who continue to uphold the various treaties of the Anishinaabek, Haudenosaunee, and Lunaapéewak. In London, our treaties include the 1796 London Township Treaty and the 1822 Longwoods Treaty. The London Township Treaty was a regional treaty signed by diplomats representing all parties living on the land, which today we know as Southwestern Ontario. The Longwoods Treaty was signed by representatives o f the Crown and the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation and covers approximately 580,000 acres in the area. Locally, there are three First Nations Communities. They are the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, the Oneida Nation of the Thames, and the Munsee Delaware Nation. We would also like to recognize the growing Indigenous urban population, comprised of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people, and affirm our commitment to welcoming these communities to the Grand Theatre, while working to remove barriers to access and participation. We value the significant historical and contemporary contributions of local and regional First Nations, and all of the Original Peoples of Turtle Island (colonially known as North America), and acknowledge the traditional lands upon which we live, work, share, and tell stories together.
We are honoured to live, work, and tell stories, together here. Designed by Katie Wilhelm
THANK YOU
TO OUR SPONSORS & SUPPORTERS the spriet stage is generously sponsored by helen & andy spriet.
PUBLIC funders
season sponsor
title sponsors Kim’s Convenience
charlie & THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY
THE INVISIBLE
IN SEVEN DAYS
CLUE
High school project title sponsor
youth program sponsors
25th anniversary sponsor
jeans n’ classics presenting sponsor
“Pay-what-you-can” presenting sponsor
student club presenting sponsor
grand gala presenting sponsor
TD emerging talent sponsor
community engagement champion
community partners hotel
apparel
telecommunications
printing
framing
catering
florist
vehicles
The
PRESIDENT’S Report
It is my privilege and honour to provide the President’s Report, outlining the impact of the Grand Theatre’s 2023/24 Season. I would like to begin by thanking Evan Klassen for his hard work, compassion, and strong vision over the last two seasons. I also wish to thank the outgoing Directors of the Grand Theatre Operating Board for their commitment, insights, and dedication to the Grand. I would also like draw focus to the two exceptional leaders currently in place to drive the Grand Theatre into the future, Rachel Peake and Lyndee Hansen. With them at the helm, and a team of impeccably capable senior leaders stewarding the vision of the organization, the Grand Theatre’s future looks brighter with each passing day. I am talking, certainly, about the quality, and calibre of the art and entertainment that is fostered within these walls. I also look to the staff, technicians, artists, and boards of the Grand Theatre, and am encouraged by the fact that this collective of professionals represents (and values) the community that they serve: that of Londoners, and the city of London, Ontario. The 2023/24 Season: A Season of Pure Imagination was programmed by outgoing Artistic Director Dennis Garnhum, and left audiences with soaring melodies, poignant (and sometimes challenging) stories, as well as the marvels of a rotating two story mansion, a fully realistic convenience store, and the chocolate factory of a child’s dreams, among other thrilling technical accomplishments.
George Kerhoulas President, grand theatre board of directors
Photo by Mallory Brown
A note from the
EXECUTIVE & ARTISTic DIRECTORS
To begin, we would like to take a moment to thank all the people who make everything we do at the Grand Theatre possible. To the Board of Directors, thank you for your support and wise council that help us every day. To our volunteers, thank you for your time, dedication and love of this theatre. To the staff, thank you for all your hard work and belief in what we do – this (and every season) is only possible because of you. Finally, we would like to take a moment to thank our former Executive Director Evan Klassen for his commitment and care of the Grand Theatre over the last two years - thank you for all that you have done to move this organization forward. 2023/24 marked the beginning of Rachel’s tenure as Artistic Director of the Grand. Coming to us from the Arts Club Theatre Company in Vancouver, Rachel began working with the Grand in October 2023, overseeing the execution of Dennis Garnhum’s final programmed year, and planning her first season for 2024/25. The 2023/24 season was an exciting year beginning with the 25th Anniversary of the Grand Theatre High School Project: a sold-out three week run of The Phantom of the Opera. We look fondly on the massive production undertaking of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory; the riotous blockbuster hit, Clue, and the impressive showing of musicianship and artistry on display in Million Dollar Quartet. We also welcomed Ronnie Burkett’s Theatre
of Marionettes back for a sold out run of Little Dickens and welcomed Cliff Cardinal and Andrew Prashad’s powerful one person shows to the Auburn Developments stage. In addition to our work on the stage, the Grand embarked on developing a new strategic plan in the 2023/24 season, led by Mary Blais Consulting. We look forward to sharing the new plan and our vision for the next five years in early 2025. We are also committed to continuing our journey towards greater centering of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Reconciliation (EDI-R). As a part of that work, we have engaged Dr. Nicole Kaniki of Senomi Solutions to work closely with our team and EDI-R committee, maintaining an EDI-R lens through all elements of the strategic planning process and working to create an EDI-R Action Plan. The 2023/24 season saw real growth in both ticket sales and fundraising for the Grand. However, much like many other organizations in the performing arts, the Grand is still in a time of rebuilding post-pandemic. Despite the great shows in the season, and despite all the people who supported our work, we were not able to meet our targets for the year and ended the 23/24 season with a deficit. That said, we are excited to be looking ahead to a 2024/25 season with a record number of subscribers! We are so grateful to all our partners, including the multi-year commitments of BMO Financial, Old Oak Properties, TD Bank, and Canada Life, and truly appreciate the support and commitments of our subscribers, ticket buyers, sponsors, donors, staff, artists, and volunteers for helping to ensure a Grand future. With gratitude,
Rachel Peake, Artistic Director
Lyndee Hansen, Executive Director
Photo by Dahlia Katz
Photo by mai tilson
KIM’S CONVENIENCE
oct 17 to nov 4
Alex / various roles emeka agada appa Ins Choi Umma vicki kim jung leon qin janet kelly j seo
“[Jun] nurtures the existing love people have for this work’s past life and asks what this work says to audiences in this specific moment...”
Written by and Starring Ins Choi
Director esther jun set Designer julia kim based on the original design by carolyn rapanos costume designer julia kim lighting designer jareth li sound designer maddie bautista assistant director amanda lin fight director anita nittoly stage manager peter jotkus assistant stage manager kelsey rae apprentice stage manager sydney stobo vocal coach jane gooderham
The Company of kim’s convenience Photos by Dahlia Katz
On The Spriet Stage
- TAYLOR MARIE GRAHAM, INTERMISSION MAGAZINE
For the second time, Ins Choi’s Kim’s Convenience took the stage at the Grand Theatre (where it was last enjoyed in 2013, hot off of its box office smashing run at Soulpepper Theatre Company in Toronto). For the first time, Ins Choi stepped into the iconic shoes of the Kim family patriarch, Appa, marking an historic new chapter for this beloved Canadian story.
Roald Dahl’s
CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY Book by David Greig | Music by Marc Shaiman Lyrics by Scott Wittman & Marc Shaiman
Songs from the Motion Picture by Leslie Bricusse & Anthony Newley Orchestrations by Doug Besterman | Arrangements by Marc Shaiman
Charlie Bucket Greyson reign armer ensemble matthew armet ensemble kih becke mrs. green / mrs. teavee Meg Buchanan-lunn grandma georgina / mrs. gloop krystal chance mr. beauregarde aadin church grandma josephine barbara fulton augustus gloop nathanael judah jerry jubilee christopher lucas Cherry Sunday Amanda Lundgren violet beauregarde mikela marcellin ensemble / associate choreographer jamie murray charlie bucket neela noble veruca salt Nicole norsworthy mrs. bucket melissa mackenzie mike teavee ELM reyes grandpa geogre / mr. salt salvatore scozzari Ensemble Julius Sermonia Ensemble Michele Shuster Grandpa Joe David Talbot Willy Wonka Mark Uhre
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory transformed the Spriet Stage into a wonderland for adults and children alike, as it dove into the timeless tale of Willy Wonka, Charlie Bucket, and a factory tour that would be impossible to forget! Marking the return of Mark Uhre to a leading role on the Grand Theatre Spriet Stage, an ensemble cast of talented favourites, Grand debuts, and incredible local talent, the production was realized by the directorial eye of Jan Alexandra Smith.
nov 21 to dec 24 On The Spriet Stage
2 Charlie Buckets! 6 inflatable gummy bears 60 pool noodles made into lollipops, candies, and Twizzlers!
“The unveiling of what had been behind those gates for so long was enchanting to say the least. From the set design giving the illusion of a candy-filled world, to the actors’ amazement of what they too were witnessing, it was really a sight to see.”
director jan alexandra smith music director alexandra kane choreographer robin calvert set designer scott penner costume designer joseph abetria lighting designer siobhÁn slEath sound designer brian kenny projection designer cameron fraser Magic / Illusions Designer Skylar Fox Creative consultant Megan Watson puppeteering consultant adam francis proulx stage manager Kelly Luft assistant stage manager Jordan Guetter assistant stage manager melissa cameron apprentice stage manager jess gordon child supervisor cindi armer-almeida child supervisor chrystine robinson
- zoË alexandra king, interrobang The Company of Charlie AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY Photos by Dahlia Katz
JAN 16 to Feb 3 On The Spriet Stage
“This show boasts some show-stopping talent, impressive design elements, and is a captivating way to imagine the stories of female agents of WWII that go untold.” - EDEN EIDT, ENTERTAIN THIS THOUGHT
The Invisible: The Agents of Ungentlemanly Warfare marked the second production from Catalyst Theatre to enchant the Spriet Stage. From the creators of regional favourite, Vigilante, The Invisible’s all-female cast told the bold, stylized, and unforgettable tale of female Special Operations Executives during the second World War. Marked by exciting partnerships with Women 4 Women, The Secrets of Radar Museum, plus the official launch of both the Vigilante and The Invisible soundtracks, this powerful experience ought not to dissappear into the pages of history.
Catalyst Theatre’s
THE INVISIBLE
Book, Music, & Lyrics by Jonathan Christenson
Dorothy Ward Kristi Hansen Jacqueline Kovacs Kaylee Harwood evelyn ash Melissa MacPherson Madeline Barré sarah nairne Betty Anderson amanda trapp Szarlotta Jazinski justine westby Anna Sidiqui tahirih vejdani Director jonathan christenson production Designer bretta gerecke original choreographer laura krewski choreographer Courtney Arsenault sound designer / music production matthew skopyk music director (vocals) Ruth Alexander vocal arrangements jonathan christenson with ruth alexander copyist stephanie urquhart dramaturge sarah garton stanley production manager lee o’reilly stage manager brian scott assistant stage manager frances bundy
The Company of THE INVISIBLE Photos by Dahlia Katz
A Co-Production with Harold Green Jewish Theatre Company
FEB 13 to Mar 2
IN SEVEN DAYS by Jordi Mand
shelley mairi babb sam Ron Lea darren brendan mcmurtry-howlett rachel shaina silver-baird eli Ralph Small Director Philip Akin set / costume designer Sean Mulcahy lighting Designer siobhÁn slEath sound Designer lyon smith assistant director Amanda Nicholls religious consultant rabbi debra dressler Stage Manager suzanne mcarthur Assistant Stage Manager kelsey rae Apprentice Stage Manager sydney stobo Stage Management student lara campbell
“In Seven Days is a good schmear: crusty on the outside, tender and warm within, topped with unrelenting honesty.” - larry cornies, artsbeat
The Company of IN SEVEN DAYS Photos by Dahlia Katz
On The Spriet Stage
Billed as a “comedy about death” In Seven Days endeared itself into the hearts and minds of Londoners as part of the COMPASS New Play Development program for the 2023/24 season. Audience members fell in love with Samuel, Rachel, Shelley, Eli, and Darren and held space for them in the challenging and loving final week of Samuel’s life. Engaging with the difficult conversation of MAiD (Medical Assitance in Dying) within the framework of a dark comedy, resulted in a beloved production that has already lived on beyond the walls of the Grand at Harold Green Jewish Theatre Company in Toronto.
1
»
World Premiere
»
London-Proud Playwright
»
reason to call and say “I love you.”
Mar 12 to 31 On The Spriet Stage
two-storey 1 Rotating, mansion 3 deaths in three minutes 1 13-minute death scene
# of references to www.jessegervais.com
? (we lost count)
A bona fide hit of the 2023/24 Season, Clue welcomed 15,000 happy (and inquisitive) ticket buyers into the farcical, whacky world of Boddy Manor, where they laughed along to the hilarious antics of an ensemble of characters determining whodunnit, where, and with what?
The Company of CLUE Photos by Dahlia Katz
A Co-Production with the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre
CLUE
Based on the screenplay by Jonathan Lynn Written by Sandy Rustin Additional Material by Hunter Foster & Eric Price
mrs. peacock / intimacy director sharon bajer mrs. white petrina bromley unexpected cop / backup cop Rosie Callaghan motorist / backup cop / newscaster Kamal chioua col. mustard beau dixon mr. boddy / chief of police alex furber wadsworth jesse gervais mr. green toby hughes miss scarlet Reena Jolly cook / telegram girl / backup cop tracy penner prof. plum derek scott yvette / backup cop rosalie tremblay Director Dennis Garnhum Set / costume Designer brian Perchaluk Lighting Designer Kevin Lamotte intimacy director sharon bajer fight director Jacquie loewen apprentice director theresa thomson apprentice set / costume designer julia anderson Stage Manager Michael duggan Assistant Stage Manager samantha desiree Apprentice Stage Manager Jazz Marcelin
MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET Book by Colin Escott & Floyd Mutrux Original Concept & Direction by Floyd Mutrux Carl Perkins Tyler Check Jerry Lee Lewis Christo Graham W.S. “Fluke” Holland Justin Han Dyanne Kelly Holiff Sam Phillips Omar Alex Khan Jay Perkins Erik Larson Standyby Alex Panneton Johnny Cash Adam Stevenson Elvis Presley Michael Vanhevel Director / Choreographer Julie Tomaino Music Director Patrick Bowman Set Designer Joshua Quinlan Costume Designer Laura Delchiaro Lighting Designer Michelle Ramsay Sound Designer Brian Kenny Assistant Director / Choreographer Hannah Elias Dialect Coach Alison Matthews Stage Manager Kelly Luft Assistant Stage Manager Jordan Guetter Apprentice Stage Manager Elyse Wall
The Company of Million Dollar Quartet Photos by Dahlia Katz
apr 16 to may 11 On The Spriet Stage
“When music is authentic and performed by elites, that’s as close to perfection as you’re going to get.” - Jay MÉnard, Theatre In London
Re-imagining the 1956 jam session between Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins, Million Dollar Quartet ended the season with the heat of ‘Great Balls of Fire’! When subscribers and single ticket buyers alike purchased their tickets to Million Dollar Quartet, they knew that they were about to re-live rock ‘n roll history. What they may not have known is that this high octane production, featuring incomparable musical talent, would send them to their feet night after night (and many of them would come back to experience it all over again).
NOV 27 to Dec 9 On The Auburn Stage
“[This] production brings back internationally-acclaimed and multi-award-winning puppeteer, Ronnie Burkett and The Daisy Theatre ensemble for an evening of fun, merriment, and marrionettes.” - margarita ibbott, downshiftingpro
In this raucous adults-only holiday treat, internationally acclaimed puppeteer Ronnie Burkett returned to the Grand Theatre, and reimagined A Christmas Carol for a sold-out run on the Auburn Stage. With a multitude of characters, memorable audience participation, seasonal sing-alongs, and wild improvisations, Little Dickens told the story of a fading actress and her bumpy path to redemption.
Ronnie Burkett’s
LITTLE DICKENS
Created and Performed by Ronnie Burkett Music & Sound Design by John Alcorn
creator / performer Ronnie Burkett marionette / costume / set design ronnie burkett musical arrangements / sound design john alcorn production manager terri gillis stage manager / technical director crystal salverda associate producer john lambert costumes kim crossley puppet builders angela talbot gemma james-smith marcus jamin jesse byiers gil garratT martin herbert Shoes & accessories robin fisher Shoes & accessories camellia koo marionette controls luman coad majordomo robbie buttinski majordomo daisy padunkles
Edna Rural, cliff Cardinal, & Andrew Prashad LITTLE DICKENS & HUFF Photos by Dahlia Katz ONE STEP AT A TIME PHOTOs BY preston free cooper
HUFF
Written & Performed by Cliff Cardinal Directed by Karin Randoja Produced by CUNNING CONCEPTS & CREATIONS
Feb 6 to 17
On The Auburn Stage
ONE STEP AT A TIME
Written, Conceived, Composed, & Performed by Andrew Prashad
APR 9 to 20
On The Auburn Stage Creator / performer andrew prashad
Creator / performer cliff cardinal director karin randoja sound designer alex williams technical director allan day set / costume designer jackie chau stage managerment jennifer stobart lighting designer michelle ramsay production manager ryan cunningham From Cliff Cardinal, multi-award-winning Cree writer, poet and actor, the tale of Wind and his two brothers, who are caught in a torrent of solvent abuse and struggling to cope with the sudden death of their mother. “These stories must be told so these truths are not forgotten or ignored. They are a barometer of the world we’ve allowed to exist, and a reminder to work for better stories for all.”- Social Media Comment
director scott hurst music director jeannie wyse Using monologues, original songs, improvisational tap dance, and multimedia video, Andrew shared his and his wife’s personal journey of caring for a son with spina bifida and hydrocephalus, while raising two daughters – all while maintaining his career as a professional actor, singer, and dancer. “The most inclusive play I have ever attended. Brave moments, dealing with obstacles, putting family first and dealing with things One Step at a Time! I highly recommend seeing this gem!” - Social Media Comment
THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber Lyrics by Charles Hart
Additional Lyrics by Richard Stilgoe Book by Richard Stilgoe & Andrew Lloyd Webber Based on the novel Le Fantôme de l’Opéra by Gaston Leroux
302
students registered for an audition/interview
student company Christine emma bishop auctioneer tristan brew joseph buquet blake carey raoul will cramp m. lefevre evan doerr mme. giry hosna emami phantom spence jackson porter jordyn gowling meg isabelle parent m. reyer ethan pickett phantom kieran prouty christine camila rodriguez andre ryan shaw piangi leo sigut raoul oliver stanton firmin isaac szoldatits
90 Backstage Interviews 158 Vocal Auditions 18 Orchestra Auditions
carlotta stella yanga opera company lauren atkinson luke bahula brooke bourne lauren brooks maggie busch theone “t” damue ethan eyles josephine gajasan manya hegde joel howard brynne howley bronwyn kerr cindy li morgan mclenaghan olivia phillips
erin prouty una roulstoN Jessica Routledge isabella santarella ryder scarrow Alyssa Skiffington navya vaillancourt desi vanbeek-paterson corps de ballet marissa bastiaansen petra bilic michael dodge ava goddard isabelle Hiltz olivia schiedel madeline st. arnaud isabella thompson
THE HIGH SCHOOL PROJECT production students Automation amy bae props nadia barakziye wardrobe morrigan beharriell stage management jules boughner scenic art alexsandra “alex” caido wardrobe ayla coates props mariza coelho props jessica deschutter wardrobe mack downe scenic art kyera hodgins lighting leah jardine wardrobe james lightowler Props sarena “ONYX” Nielsen Photo / marketing ronan prior sound floria reichhardt sound ruthie rennie props kate telfer wardrobe chandra vaillancourt props matheo van der mark Student Musicians flute / piccolo riley hales clarinet eric kang keys II franz marsolais hernandez The Company of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA Photos by Dahlia Katz
Sept 19 to oct 7 On The Spriet Stage
director Andrew Tribe music director Floydd Ricketts Associate Music Director Matthew Atkins choreographer Nicola Pantin set designer Scott Penner costume designer lisa wright lighting designer kimberly purtell Sound designer Aaron Ouellette assistant director Hannah Elias Fight / Intimacy Director anita nittoly stage manager alice ferreyra galliani apprentice stage manager devon vecchio vocal coach andrew rethazi The 25th Anniversary of the High School Project was helmed by Director, Andrew Tribe: an HSP alum and past director at the Grand (Dir. Titanic The Musical, Assistant Dir. Chariots of Fire.) The Phantom of the Opera ran for an unprecedented sold out three week run on the Spriet Stage.
“I’ve made lifelong friendships, become more mature and learned so much to help me progress in life. This was by far one of the coolest things I’ve ever done.” - HSP Student Survey Response
Peter Brennan’s
JEANS N’ CLASSICS AUG 17 - Abbey road nov 7 - ...and a little chicago mar 5 - motown & disco apr 4 - journey / queen may 30 & 31 - fleetwood mac THE SERIES THAT ALWAYS SELLS OUT did just that once again for the 2023/24 Season. With astounding renewal rates on the Jeans ‘n Classics series year after year, the Grand Theatre decided to add on an additional performance of “Never Break The Chain”: The Music of Fleetwood Mac, on May 31, 2024, opening up the series to an additional house of music-loving audience members.
conductor Jeff Christmas Mitch tyler Vocals ROBYN BLACK Rique Franks Gavin Hope IAN JUTSUN Katalin Kiss Andrea koziol Stephanie Martin Kathryn Rose Johnny Rutledge Tracey gallant Trumpet Paul Stevenson guitar peter brennan Dave Dunlop keyboards john regan bass Steve Hogg Steve Lucas Darryl stacey Mitch Tyler drums Jeff Christmas Paul delong featuring the jeans n’ classics rock symphony Photos by Denis Germain
LONDON GOSPEL COLLECTIVE matthew atkins Mel Atkins Dawn Brereton-Young Bronson Deagle Gloria Jones Alexandra kane Mabel Kane Jennifer Keech-leveille Tora Klassen Calvin LawrencE DAvid Mclean george carlson mcleary connell miller rene payes lennette randall breanne ritchie Alessia Sam jennifer slay marque smith Sarah taylor dillon vyn
Photos by moses Latigo odida
Dec 17 & 18 - the beginning Feb 25 - Black history x futures Apr 21 & 22 - walk with faith Special to the 2023/24 Season, the Grand Theatre presented the London Gospel Collective for 3 unforgettable concerts on the Auburn Stage. An ensemble of local talent, the London Gospel Collective enchanted audiences with selections of the greatest gospel music of all time, spreading hope, unity, and faith with every note. Artistic Director matthew atkins Executive Director Alexandra kane Creative Director george mcleary Band Leader Marque Smith piano marque smith keys david mclean drums mark swan bass Tim ball mike mathison Junior Riggan rob weatherstone
VEN DAYS e S IN by Jordi Mand
Mairi Babb, Emilio Vieira, Shaina Silver-Baird, Ralph Small, Ron Lea. PHOTO BY CAITLIN CORE
New Work Jordi Mand and Philip Akin. PHOTO BY DAHLIA KATZ
In October 2023, the Grand Theatre hosted a workshop for the World Premiere of IN SEVEN DAYS, a co-production with Harold Green Jewish Theatre Company. The show was first staged at the Grand Theatre in February 2024, and went on to a second run in Toronto at the Greenwin Theatre, Meridian Arts Centre.
Emerging Talent
2023/24 APPRENTICES & INTERNS For decades, the Grand Theatre has upheld the practice of being a “teaching theatre,” and facilitates annual apprenticeships in both production and administration. Over the 2023/24 Season, these apprenticeships continued, with placements offering both paid and unpaid opportunities for mentees to immerse themselves in their respective craft ,within a large regional and producing theatre, under the leadership of well-established mentors. With a strong focus on skills and career development, apprentices gain valuable hands-on experience, working alongside the Grand's skilled artists, artisans, and administration, and have a role in longer-art planning, as well as team management, and leadership.
2023/24 Apprentices TD EMERGING LEADERS Lisa Traini Morgan Cameron Danielle Dixon APPRENTICE STAGE MANAGERS DEVON VECCHIO SYDNEY STOBO JESS GORDON SYDNEY STOBO JAZZ MARCELINO ELYSE WALL
Photo by Ronan Prior
IN OUR
SPACES 2023/24 RENTALS
ASHLEY WEAVER PHOTOGRAPHY
“The rentals portfolio is an exciting one. Working with local community theatre groups, comedians, musicians, and hosting a beautiful wedding, our team was able to bring in an extra $38,000 for the organization.” - Monica Coddington, Director of Business Development
RENTALS BY THE NUMBERS
17
64
9,812
rental client productions
performances
admissions to rental performances
Operational Highlights 2023/24 Season Fund Development Total ($) individual gifts in 2023/24
$744,636
Program Advertisers Shack Shine 100 Kellogg Lane 1-800-Got-JUNK A Team London Real Estate AdLeverage Ahria Consulting Allswell Productions Auburn Developments Bluestone Properties BMO Canada Life Channer's Apparel Daisy Flowers Delta London Armouries Fanshawe College Fellini Koolini's Forrat's Chocolate Studio Framing & Art Jinx Residential & Commercial Design Joe Kool's LDCSB
Len's Mill Store Lexus of London Libro Credit Union Matt Parr Mortgages McCormick Nash Jewellers New Era Grafix North Moore Catering Co. Old Oak Properties Petrolia Playhouse PointeTango Posh Cheeseboard Provincial Glass Shack Shine Sportswood Printing Sunfest Theatre Aezir Tourism London TVDSB Tyner-Shorten Clothiers Western Fair District Westminster College Foundation
“For over a century, Londoners and visitors to the theatre have stood behind the work that we do on and off of our stages. As a charitable organization, it is this support that powers and sustains our work, and enables the theatre to thrive.” - Heather Siskind-Levite, Director of Development
Very Important Partner Progam Mezza Restobar Marienbad Restaurant Studio H Mint Spa One On York The Mule Show your Toboggan Joe Kool’s ticket, get great Runt Club deals at local Moxies establishments! Buzz Bagelz Winks Eatery Fellini Koolini’s
Holiday Wish for Kids On Nov 21st, 2023, the Grand Theatre held its 30th Annual Holiday Wish for Kids event, partnering with local agencies to give kids from our community their first theatrical experience.
414 Children 25 From
Agencies
1
“best day ever!”
Business Cares Food Drive
Ticket Donations
During the run of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Grand Theatre Audiences raised:
390
$45,512 toward the Business Cares Food Drive Campaign, in support of the London Food Bank.
tickets donated by the Grand Theatre toward fundraising initiatives throughout London and region.
Audience Enrichment AfterWORDS an average of 60 patrons per event EDUCATORS NIGHT OUT 100 subscriptions STUDENT CLUB 81 subscriptions TEA TALKS an average of 100 patrons per event
Student Matinees
53 4,909 SCHOOLS
STUDENTS IN ATTENDANCE
Relaxed Performances “We loved it all. My son seizes in darkness, but with house lights up we were ok. we Loved the explanations pre-show – they were well thought out and helpful. Thank you!” – Teresa W. In 2023/24, the Grand Theatre introduced Relaxed Performances as part of its Accessibility Services, and offered this style of performance on Charlie the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Chocolate Factorand Million Dollar Quartet. Relaxed Performances are designed to offer a less restrictive audience environment, ideal for patrons on the autism spectrum, those with sensory and communication disorders, ADHD, learning or developmental disabilities, dementia, all members of the Disability community, or those who simply want a more relaxed theatre experience. At these performances, patrons are allowed to leave and re-enter throughout the show, sensory elements such as light and sound are reduced, and startling effects such as strobe lights and fog are eliminated. Young children and babes in arms are welcome at Relaxed Performances.
PHOTO BY RONAN PRIOR
Open Captioned Performances In 2023/24 - as a part of our community engagement initiatives - the Grand Theatre resumed Open captioned performances for all six of the Spriet Series productions.
“I wear hearing aids and sometimes miss some of the dialogue. The written screen is very helpful [...] Thank you for providing that.”
Community Engagement Highlights
29
Senior Groups & Retirement Centres engaged.
1,163
nity Commu d e ic r P Sold Tickets
42
Community Organizations & Groups engaged, including:
Glen Cairn NRC LUSO NRC Crouch NRC Northwest London NRC South London NRC Pillar Non Profit City of London Anti-Racism and Anti-Oppression Department The Métis Nation of Ontario Thames Bluewater Métis Council Fanshawe Friends W.E.A.N. Community Centre YMCA Southwest Ontario Essence and Culture Awards Black Youth Connect London Black History Coordinating Committee Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society & Black Mecca Museum LiberAsian School of Hip Hop Autism Ontario L’Arche London
Special Events KOREAN COMMUNITY NIGHT - Sunday, October 22, 2023 The Korean Society of London joined us to celebrate Kim’s Convenience and London, Ontario Community Connections. The event was attended by Eunju Yi Executive Director of London Arts Council, as well as the company of the show!
JEWISH COMMUNITY EVENT - Sunday, February 25, 2024 In collaboration with Jewish London, guests attended the World Premiere performance of Jordi Mand’s play, In Seven Days. Following the matinee, a reception took place in the Drewlo Lounge, with light food on offer, and a thought-provoking panel discussion.
SONGS UNSUNG, STORIES UNTOLD – Wednesday, May 1, 2024 Patrons, artists and music lovers gathered to celebrate, explore, and learn more about the influence of Black artists on early rock ‘n’ roll. This special post-show event (following a performance of Million Dollar Quartet) featured award-winning actor, musician, playwright, music director, and sound designer, Beau Dixon, and Norma Coates, Associate Professor, Don Wright Faculty of Music and the Faculty of Information and Media Studies, Western University, who explored the roots of rock ‘n’ roll in blues, gospel, and R&B. Pictured: Leon Qin, Vicki Kim, and Ins Choi with members of the Korean Community of London. PHOTO BY RONAN PRIOR
750+
program sponsor
pay what you
patrons enjoyed PWYC pricing
can
MOBILE
TICKETI
2023/24 marked the first year of a two-year commitment from Canada Life in support of Pay What You Can (PWYC) matinees at the Grand Theatre. For each production in the Spriet Stage subscription series, we reserved 150 seats for same-day online and in-person sales, at whatever price patrons were comfortable paying.
NG
POWERED BY TRUE TICKETS
In early 2024, the Grand Theatre began offering ticket delivery through a secure, contactless mobile platform called the Grand Theatre Mobile Wallet. This platform ensures greater safety and convenience for all patrons who enter our theatre. Mobile tickets offer numerous benefits, including: quick and easy entry, minimized risk of lost, stolen, or counterfeit tickets.
Patron Services
9,368 131 hours volunteered
PHOTO 1 BY DAMIEN DUDEK PHOTO 2 BY DAHLIA KATZ
2023/24 volunteers
LONDON is GRAND
Housing Partners We like to thank the members of our community who welcomed visiting artists into their homes as Artist Housing Partners for the 2023/24 season: Brian Baillargeon • Becca Beith • Jill Ellis-Worthington • Denise Jung • Mabel Kane • Janet McAllister • Bill & Maryanne McGarth • Leon Melville • Cam Quinn • Patricia Reilly • Francine Rheault • Julie Ryan• Anita & Amit Shah • Allan Stitchbury • Mark Uhre • Peter & Jan Vogel • Bob Ward & Susan Yerema • Megan Watson • Doug & Connie Weir • Terry Wood
Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Reconciliation (EDI-R) We value Diversity by ... • Accepting, respecting, and valuing individual differences. • Honouring the diverse backgrounds and experiences of our staff, board members, donors, sponsors, and community members. We value Inclusion by ... • Identifying, addressing, and working to remove barriers in our organization’s processes, policies, and practices. • Facilitating opportunities that result in effective and meaningful participation within our organization. • Creating ideas and solutions built upon diverse perspectives. We value a Culture in which ... • People are treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. • Harassment and discrimination are not tolerated. • Self-awareness and personal accountability are expected. We Commit to Reconciliation… • Through meaningful consultation and building respectful relationships with Indigenous artists, professionals, staff, and community members. • Educating theatre members and ourselves on Indigenous history and culture and actioning intentional Reconciliation.
AndreA Menard, Vicki Kim, Sook Chang, Ins Choi, Sunnam Kim, HeeJung Lee, Haekyoung Kim-Webber, Norma Coates, Beau Dixon, & Breanne Ritchie
Since late 2023, the Grand has been working with Senomi Solutions Inc. and Dr. Nicole Kaniki as the theatre’s EDI-R advisor and ombudsperson. Dr. Kaniki led a broad community consultation which has resulted in redefining the Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Reconciliation Committee and creating the Grand’s EDI-R Action Plan in conjunction with its Strategic Plan. The EDI-R Committee provides counsel and recommendations to the management team, ensuring accountability and fostering a culture of EDI-R. The management team will utilize this guidance to inform their decisions, which will be communicated to the Board and the broader Grand Theatre community as needed. The Grand Theatre is dedicated to connecting with community members and hearing their ideas for how to make the theatre an accessible and welcoming space where everyone can have a meaningful experience. Our Community Engagement efforts have resulted in many special events and programs throughout the season in partnership with local groups and organizations. Please see pages 30-33 of this report for some examples of this work. A commitment to arts accessibility continues to be a priority of the Grand Theatre by providing ongoing improvements to programs, facilities, and services that support an extraordinary experience for all patrons. In the 2023/24 season, we continued offering an Open Captioned performance on every show of the Spriet Season. This was also our first time offering a Relaxed Performance, which we provided on Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Million Dollar Quartet in consultation with Jack Hawk of Tangled Arts & Disability. Physical accessibility within our theatre building has been reviewed through an accessibility audit by Melanie Stone, the Accessibility and Inclusion Advisor for the City of London within the Anti-Racism and Anti-Oppression Division. This has resulted in some changes and planned changes, such as an accessible bar on the 2nd floor lobby and additional seating options for wheelchair users and those with mobility needs. For ongoing updates and listings of Accessibility services, please see our webpage: grandtheatre.com/accessibility. We invite Grand Theatre staff, volunteers, artists, and members of our communities to bring forward topics and concerns to the Grand’s EDI-R Committee. Correspondence may be addressed, in confidence, to: EDIR@grandtheatre.com. We welcome all submissions, and are committed to bringing forward topics while respecting the privacy and wishes of the contributor, and respecting the organization’s legal obligations.
2023/24
GRAND GALA On June 12, 2023, and in true “Flower Power” style, the Grand Theatre hosted its Annual Gala. This year’s event featured performances from the company of the 2024 Grand Theatre High School Project, and HSP Alumnus Mark Uhre. The event included the annually-anticipated Live Auction, hosted by Fripp Auctions. Attendance, Live Auction, and the always-memorable Make A Difference Appeal raised approx. $338,000 for the Grand Theatre.
grand gala presenting sponsor
PHOTO BY MELISSA MAE SHIPLEY
232
Guests and Grand supporters enjoyed a beautiful dinner on the Spriet Stage.
24
approximately
$338,000
High School Project students performed “Welcome to the 60s” from Hairspray, Hairsprayfollowed by “When I Grow Up” from Matilda MatildaThe TheMusical, Musical during the Make A Difference Appeal.
raised for Grand Theatre programming
GOLD SPONSORS
SILVER SPONSORS
BRONZE SPONSORS IN HONOUR OF THE ALUMNI OF THE
HIGH SCHOOL PROJECT
FLORAL SPONSOR
BEER SPONSOR
CATERING PARTNER
AFTER PARTY SPONSOR
Mark Uhre & the company of Matilda the musical Photos by Preston Free Cooper
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS total revenues less total expenses forgiveness of grand theatre foundation loan
$8,327,963 $9,414,201 $813,883
Net ($272,355) CHANGES IN NET ASSETS Net assets (beginning of year) Excess (Deficiency of revenue over expenses)
($272,355)
Net assets (end of year)
$45,245
$317,600
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION ASSETS $3,323,758 lIABILITIES $3,278,513 NET ASSETS $45,245 TOTAL LIABILITIES + NET ASSETS
$3,374,592
GRAND THEATRE ENDOWED FUNDS The grand theatre has two externally held and restricted endowment funds at the London Community Foundation and the Ontario Arts Foundation (www.lcf.on.ca | www.oafdn.ca) LONDON COMMUNITY FOUNDATION oNTARIO ARTS FOUNDATION
$2,399,867 $760,832
TOTAL
$3,160,699
2023/24 TICKET SALES PERFORMANCES SPRIET SERIES 157 AUBURN SERIEs 39 JEANS N’ CLASSICS 6 HIGH SCHOOL PROJECT 22 SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS 6 TOTAL
230
EXPENSES PRODUCTIONS $4,470,964 MARKETING/ FUNDRAISING $1,321,288 FACILITY OPER. $832,851 ADMINISTRATION $835,966 FRONT OF HOUSE/ BOX OFFICE $985,867 ROYALTIES $967,265 TOTAL
$9,414,201
REVENUE PRODUCTIONS FUNDRAISING GOVT. GRANTS CONCESSIONS OTHER
$4,973,458 $1,466,252 $1,304,941 $309,260 $274,052
TOTAL
$8,327,963
PAID TICKETS
TICKET PAID AMNT
70,894 2,732 4,534 16,002 792
$3,649,587 $93,521 $303,241 $526,504 $13,869
94,959
$4,586,722
donor acknowledgements This listing recognizes the 824 households that gave to the Grand Theatre between July 1st 2023 - June 30th 2024. GRAND SUPPORTER BY LAST NAME Angela Abdallah William J. Abel Judy & Jack Abell Stephanie Abercrombie Shannon Ablitt Linda Frosst Adams Larry and Susan Agranove Family Fund Zahra & Sumit Agrawal Ahria Consulting Inc. Philip Akin Henry J. Albers Shelley Alford All Women L.E.A.D. Jill & Brian Allen Chris Alleyne & Chris Costello Susan Allison Elizabeth Alves Jane & Justin Amann Florence Andrews-Perkes Joan Ang Marguerite Annen Sharon & Harold Arbuckle Susan Armer Ellen Atkinson Karen & Eric Auzins Carol & Ted Aziz Linda Badke Suzanne Baehr Karen Bailey & Lynn Heinitz Rob Bain JoAnne & Kirk Baines Trevor Baker Silvia Orsini & Fraser Ball Philip Ball Ilene & Brent Bamford Joan & Michael Bancroft Caroline Barandowski Catherine & Charles Barnum Brent & Sheila Barr Cathy & Dennis Barr Doreen & Mike Bartlett Nino Basacco Beverly & David Bell Pat & Rodney Bell
Patti Bell Louise & David Bellhouse Janis & Henry Bens Brenda & Kerry Benson Sharon Beresford Helene Berman Sandy Bessette Ingrid & Monica Betz Julie Bevan Daphne & Kevin Bice Joy Birch Judith Blackburn Susan Blakney Tina Blancher Nicole Blanchette Maureen Boland Michael & Pat Botetzayas Carolyn & Colin Botten Martine Bouchard Donna & Robert Bourne Ellen Bowering Heather Bowman Joan & Robert Boyce Marjorie & Daniel Braatz Heather & Jonathan De Souza David & Terianne Brebner Mary & Tony Brebner Christina Breckner Carol Breen Teresa Brennan Suzanne Brett Welsh Brisson Toal Foundation Rob & Twee Brown Mikayla Bruder Susan Bryant & Mike MacDonald Laura Buchanan Budget Carpet & Tiles In memory of Ian Underhill Moira Burke Burnett Okanski Dale Financial Group Sharon & Bill Burns Linda & Larry Burt Pamela Bushell Paula Bustard Dorothy Byrne-Jones Jennepher Cahill
Mildred F. Caldwell Patrick Callon Jodie & James Campbell Madeline Campbell Jesse Carlton Michael Carnegie Blaine Carter Janet & James Caskey James Cassidy Ann Castle Lance Ceaser Michael Eddy Diana & Walter Cherwaty Carol Christie & Brad Winder Vera Church Gordon Clark Greg & Diane Clark Gary Coakley In Memory of Dr Charles Coates Evelyn & William Cockburn Paul Cocker & Trish Fulton Nancy & Chris Cockle Myra & Gary Collins Kim & Pete Conners Karen Connor Ashley Conyngham Hugh John Cook Frances Cook Mary Louise & Bruce Cooper Dr Paul E Cooper & Mr David J Hiebert C J Cornhill Larry Cornies Grace Coutinho Colleen Cowan Joanne & Thomas Cowan Lynne Cram The Cramp Family Crawford MacLeod Foundation Heather Crawford Kendra Creider Jim Cressman Betty Crockett David Cruickshank Anne Crunican John Cuddie Anne Cummings Dianne Cunningham Pamela Cushing Cindy Daley Linda Damore Michael & Wendy Daubs David Nelms And Maggie
Rebel Family Fund Paul David Cecilia & William Davies Lynn Davis Jennifer & Peter Day Jitse De Haan Don and Suzanne De Jong Noreen De Shane Midge & Phil Dean Susan and John Dean Patricia DeAnna Judy and Peter Devlin Wayne R. DeVries Susan Dittmer & Family Eileen Dobell Rick Doerr Stuart Donaldson Emma Donoghue Ltd Bonnie Douglas Joanne Dow Jeff Dowswell Guenter & Kathy Draudt Elizabeth & Allan Drewlo Joseph Driskill Mary Dryden Alanna & Adam D’Silva Kate Dubinski Marlene Duister Ms. Sandra Dunbar Jennifer Duncan Diane & Wayne Dunn Linda Dutsch Phil Dwyer & Christen Shoesmith Phil Dwyer Frances Dyson Susan Easterbrook Susan & Allan Edwards Mary & Frank Eisan Penny Eizenga Abigail B. Elliott Sarah Emms Doris England Liz & Jim Etherington Richard Eyles Kim Eyre Laura & Doug Fairbairn Mary-Lou Falla Alison Webb-Fantillo & Blair Fantillo Laurie Farquharson Barb & Bruce Fearnall Nate Fehrman Bette Ferguson June Ferguson
Linda & Louis Ferraro Min & Art Fidler Joan Finegan & Mel Goodale Sabina & Irwin Finestone Glenda Finlay Mina Fiorilli Linda Fischer Felix Fisher Michelle & Shawn Fitzsimmons Paul Flanagan & T. Cristiano-Flanagan Ann & Bill Fleming Frances & Jim Flett Yvette & Chris Fliesser Lorie Forwell & William Clark Suzanne Fratschko Elliott Adam & Rachel Fremeth Beth Freure Deanna Friesen Paul Fujimoto-Pihl Bev & Ron Fuller Anita Gaffney Glen & Marg Gagan Jeffrey Gandz & Elizabeth Spracklin Susan Garden Haley & Ryan Gauss Brad Geddes Cliona A. Geraghty Gloria & Joseph Gilbert Nigel & Rhonda Gilby Foundation Mary Gillett & Thomas Burnett Kathryn Glasgow & Dave Aziz Rigmor & Gary Glen Valerie P. Gloin The Gord & Victoria Drimmie Family Fund Charles Graham Robert Graham Douglas Grandy The Grant And Lily Hopcroft Fund Alexandra Grant Joan Grant Kay Green Mandy Greenfeld Trish Greenhow Kyle Greenwood Anonymous Rhonda Hallberg Lori Hamer Bea & Gavin Hamilton
Tony Hamilton Caroline & Rodney Hancock Alison & Michael Hannay Adriane Harlton Christine Harrowe Deborah & Jim Hartley Najet & Hanny Hassan Denise Hay Lois & Glenn Hayter Kristin Heard Glenna Hemphill Lynn Hendershot Jennifer Hiltz Brent Hodge Gail & Rick Hoevenaars Patricia Hoffer Anonymous The Megan Holliday Memorial Fund Bernadette & John Holman Nancy & Barry Holt Nitzan Holzberg Cheryl Hooper Linda Hoover Grant & Lily Hopcroft Nicole Le Riche & John Howard Louisa Howerow Mackenzie Howson Anne Humberstone Joan L. Hunter Karen Hunter Michaela & Robert Huras Brenda & Morrison Hurley John & Louise Hush Heather & Paul Huston Jenna Hutchison Patricia & Richard Hutchison Barbara Hutton Matthew Creighton Susan Isaacs Lesley MacAskill & Chris Jackman Peter Jaffe & Deborah Reitzel-Jaffe Wayne Jamieson Cecile Janssen Joan Jasinski Christopher Jefferies Pennie & John Jevnikar David Jewett & Nadine Pasichnyk Yasmin Jiwani Elana Johnson & Christopher Collins
Michael Johnson Leslie & Peter Johnson Johnstone & Cowling LLP Harry Joosten & Kathleen Murphy Suzette & John Jordan Ann Judson Christina Juszczynski & Maurice Bolden Lia Karidas Emily M. Karunaratne Maureen & Shayne Kasiurak Sara & Frank Kearney Marie Keasey Heather & David Keast Maurice Keidan & Rosalind Callard Hugh Kelly Rhonda & Gene Kelly Jacqueline Crosby & George Kerhoulas Terence Kernaghan Monty Kerr Louise Keskinen Lily Kim Nancy King Mary Ellen Kirk Evan R. Klassen Richard Klassen Lorraine & Rob Klassen Rose & William Klein Kirsten Knight & Craig Emptage Kevin Knoblauch Brianna Knoppow Marlene Koehler Sheila & Stan Kogon Marty Kolls Schram & Mark Schram Steve Kopp Mary Margaret Koreen & Gary Koreen Ron & Deborah Koudys Susan & John Koval Mark Kraatz Jennie Kraehling Mary Kroetsch Jen Baker & Jamie Kruspel Nadia Kuhni Karyn Kunzler Margaret Lafleche & Glen Thompson Antje & David Laidler Margaret E Laird Tori Laird
Nicole Lane Mark Lang Suzanne Lanthier Ruta & William Lawrence Jacqueline Lawrence Jen Lawrence Jennifer & Wayne Lawrence Siobhan Lawrence William & Shirley Lawrence Ron Lawton & Steve Chitovas Lois Leatham & Dr. T.R. Balakrishnan Nancy Leaver Trish Lee Gail McHardy-Leitch & Donald Leitch Lynne & John Leitch Carole Ann & Clark Leith Lisa & Mike Leopold Sandra & Don Letton Marie Liddell Rebecca Liddiard Karen Lilley Loretta Linseman Catherine Littlejohn Deb Livingstone & Bob Ripley Joanne Lombardi London Foods Ltd. Linda Long Sharon Lovell Justine Lucas Rachel Macaulay Ann & Kevin MacDonald Liz & David Macdonald Andrea MacKenzie Patricia MacPherson Helen Mailer Suzanne Majhanovich Melissa Maloney Mary-Jane & Rick Mann Wendy Mansbridge Gianna M. Manzerolle Stephanie Marentette Peter Markvoort Darlene & Larry Marshall Lynn Marshall Sandra Marshall Gloria Martin Sonja Marzo Laura Matesic Jennifer Matthews Ruth Maude Janet & Heinz Mayr Judith McBride Cheryl & Jamie McCallum
Jill McCartney Elizabeth & William McConnell Barbara McCormick Margaret McDermott Mary Ellen McDermott Karen McDonald Nancy & Ian McDowell Ann McEwan-Castellan Ken McGuffin Sheilanne Lindsay & Ian McIlraith Dianne & Ian McIntosh Jason McIntyre Nan McIntyre Margaret & John McKay Kandice McKee & Desi Brownstone Nancy & Bill McKeough Elizabeth McKibbin Luella & Paul McKnight Debora McLachlin Lara Yovetich & Mark McLean Heather McMichael Libby & Earl McMillan Gail McNeil Marilynne McNeil Sean Noguera & Michelle McNeill Allan McPhee Teresa & Ron McRae Katherine & William Meath Megan Holliday Memorial Fund Alan Meltzer Rita Melville Beth and Bob Mepham Diane Metcalf Bev Miatello Andre and Melanie Michael Jeff Miles Beverley & Paul Mills Diane Mills Allan & Constance Mitchell Beth Ann & Jim Mitchell Debra Jared & John Mitchell Mary Anne Morrison & Terry Rushton Brett Morritt Shirley Mott Amira Moussa & Mike Meddaoui Eva Munoz Jay Murray Museum London
Kathryn Myers & Donald Farquhar Linda Myers Larry Myny Investment Group Mike Nagle Michael Naish Arthur Naregatsian Sandra Nesbitt New Era Grafix Catherine Nichols Leonard Noens & Lisa Paquette-Noens North Moore Catering Ltd Colleen O’Brien Karan O’Donovan-Schalk Alma Oliarnyk Helen & Gordon Olmstead Optimist Club Of Oakridge Acres Inc. Laura & Rick Orser Deborah & Joe Owens Wendy Padfield Ina Pakkert Migneron Chandlee Dickey & Larry Panych Rob Panzer Sandra and Derek Panzer Elizabeth Parmeter & William Horne Jenny, Matt & Finn Parr Paddy & Brian Parr Samantha L. Parsons Susie & Larry Patrick Catherine Patterson & James Ferguson Paul Butler And Chris Black Foundation Ileana Paul Doreen & Ron Paulger Ingrid Pawley Alex Payne Michael Payne Rachel Peake Devin Pearson Sandra & Robert Pearson John Peebles Lea Pender Patrick Pender Linda Pepe Susan Pepper & Bill Harper Justin Peters Kate Milner & Andrew Petrasiunas Pat & Dale Pettit Jean-Francois Pilon
Ann Pinchin Karen Pincombe Martin Pinsonnault Michael & Patricia Plastino Norma & Jim Poel Blair Poetschke Jackie & John Porter Mary & Fred Possmayer Laura Potter Jane Prance Jerry Pribil Douglas Price Diane & Gary Alan Price Karen & Rick Pritchett Maxine & William Chiu Deborah & Ronald Purdy Nancy Quinn & Jeff DeLuzio Gail & Gary Rains Debbie Rea Lili Rechnitzer Bonnie & Peter Regier Michelle Rennie Phyllis Retty Anne Reuber Paul Richardson David Roberts Ian Robertson Barbara & William Robins Judith & Wilson Rodger Garrett Rodman Karen & Paul Romanson Nancy & Jonathan Romsa Linda & Cecil Rorabeck Bill & Linda Ross Alison & Doug Ross Joanne & James Ross Patricia Rousseau Elizabeth & Ralph Rudy Doreen Ruhigisha Dianne & Rick Rumney Lynda & Howard Rundle Julie Ryan Louise Sabourin In honor of Pamela and Joseph Samuels Megan Sansom Brenda & Andrew Sarkany Sabrina Sater & Dave Schram Cathy Saunders Jennifer Schiffner Georgina & Ralph Schinkel Jane Scholes Debbie & Bob Schram Jenny Schreff Carolyn & Jack Scott
Mary Margaret Scott Heather & Peter Scott Paul Seale Catherine & Gordon Sellery Mary Senese Julia Sert Elisabeth & Todd Shaddick Anita & Amit Shah Salimah Shariff Valerie & John Sharpe Cheryl Shavalier Pirkko & Douglas Sheldrick Liisa Sheldrick Kathryn Sherwin Brenda & Derek Shipley Ian Shipley Margaret & Robert Shirley Kim & Sinclair Shuit Terry Sicular Celia & Rod Silverson Elaine & Ian Simpson Lynne Sinclair-Ifill Ellen Singleton Shelly & Bob Siskind Cathy Siskind-Kelly & Rob Kelly Meaghan Skinner Nicholas Skinner Jennifer Slay Joanne & Jack Smit Cathy Smith Janine Smith Michael & Diane Smith Philip Smith & Stephanie Ayres Vicki Smith Mary & Wayne Smith Susan Smith-Goddard Dr Robert J & Roberta Sokol Karen Sonnenberg Anne Souter & William Dawson Judith & Robert Southcott Susan Carlyle & David Southen Mariann & Randy Southen Jacqueline & Erich Specht Helen & Andy Spriet Nicole Spriet & Sandy Mikalachki Kim & Paul Spriet Elaine Stalker & Jack Norman David Stanford Michelle Stanton Apollonia Steele
Helena Steinmetz & Bruce Hewitt Carol Stephenson Debbie & Bob Schram Susan & David Steven Ann Stewart Janet E. Stewart Sarah Stewart Norma Stokes Manfred Strub Joan & Ken Sumnall Kevin & Brenda Switzer Diana Tamblyn & David Pasquino Sarah Tattersall & Kevin Endo Sharon A. Taylor Anne & Don Thede Janice Thielenhaus Robert & Ann Thomas Beverly & James Thompson Jean A. Thompson Neville Thompson Diane & Steve Thompson Jurgen Tietz Maureen & Mike Tilson Elizabeth A. Timmermans Joanne & Brian Timney Anne Toal & Paul Brission Joan & Ross Totten Diane & Jonathan Townsend Katie Travers Andrew Tribe Cathie Turner Rochelle & Ian Underhill Lisa Uptigrove Mary Joan Vallis Kathy Van Dinther Elizabeth Van Dongen Christine & Jake Van Dyk Alexis van Logtenstein Mary Vander Werf Kathryn Varey Catherine Vermue Rick Verrette & George Jolink Jennifer Krische & Karel Vlach Linda Vurma Judith Walker Cassidy Walker-Sloan Janis Wallace Kim Shanklin & Kirk Wallis Beth-Anne & Alex Wasko Dorothy Weatherstone Marlaine Weber Kelly & Paul Weber
Viola & John Weil Dennis Weir Doug and Connie Weir Drew N. Weir Barbara Weisdorf Heather Wenman Western University Housing Denise & Ronald Wexler Linda & Tim Wharton Peter & Beth Whatmore Judith White Gordon Whiting Margaret & Mark Whitley William And Katharine Kostuk Family Fund William Horne Charitable Account Lynn Williams Lynne & Paul Williams Sandra-Pat Willis Cheryl Wilson-Cullen Mark Wilton Patricia Wise Mike Wojtak Mark Wolforth Stephen Woo Christine Wood Lib & Ian Wood Dr. Malcom & Mrs. Monique Wood Barrie Woodey Cathrine Woods Andrew Wright Pat & Glen Wright Sharon Wright-Evans Richard Allan Yake Michelle Young Bernie z’l & Beverley Zaifman Lynne Zarbatany Tova Zarnowiecki Richard & Marianne Zelinka 18 Anonymous
Volunteers Assel Assylbayeva Liz Bartley Karon Belton Cynthia Bentzen Raj Beteille Renee Borg Bill Bradwin Nora Bradwin Marlene Briggs Amara Brown Antony Card Brian Carey Sheila Cassidy Patrick Cavenagh Carolyn Cresswell Claire Cunningham Anne Dale Jannet Dann Angela Decker Suzanne DeGraw Berniece Dellow Infinie DesRochers Vicki Dixon Eva Dlouhy Ina Elford-Chan Reyana Elsea Lisa Evans Theresa Fenik Ardath Finnbogason-Hill Erin Fischer Dale Flannigan Al Green Kay Green
A heartfelt thank you to the following volunteers who have generously given their time during the 2023/24 season. Sheila Green Koda Greene-Cavanagh Hannah Greenfeld Bob Gwalchmai Sharon Hallam Sue Hall-Tigert Donna Hammond John Hammond Sue Harris Tammy Harrison Martyn Hartley Julie Hebert Kerry Hill Rose Hill Ken Holman Sheila Horrell Lily Huayta Cathy Hunter Gwen Hunter Jan Irwin Ruth Johnson Mansi Joshi Bev Kari Joan Kenney Finn Kirwin Charlene Kivell Kathryn Kozell Mary Kroetsch Aditi Kulkarni Denise Kussner-Jajal Susan Langford Lynda Laskey Julia LeBlanc
Arla Longhurst Debbie Loveday Marianne Lovenjak Susan Ludlow Dennis Lunau Sharon Lunau Shannon MacDonald Sharanne MacDonald Cathy Machado Maddie Mackay Betty Malloy-Nantais Janice Masson Mary McCready Rowan McCready Pat McKenna T McLaggan Sandra McManus Darlene Medeiros Helen Minogue Angelina Moses Mary Murray Julie Nicholson Austin Noble Wendy Norton Lenore O’Brien Paul O’Brien Leslie Pearson Lana Phillips Betty Pietersma John Pietersma Norma Poel Anne-Marie Powell Susanne Prince
Anne Ramdhan Sophie Ramsden Lorraine Richardson Rick Rumney Angelo Saa George Savage Suzanne Schruder Chloe Scripnick Steve Seguin Sandra Servant Kira Shuit Jo-Ann Shute Celia Silverson Laranya Singh Pat Skidmore-Skuce Brad Smith Mariana Somaza Tom Stuart Chatchon Suwanmanee Eric Terry Mary Tesligate Dianne Van Leeuwen Bill Vandewetering Cathy Vandewetering Mila Vrabec Alice Whitson Jillian Whitson Michael Whitson Janet Wombwell Karen Young Liz Yurkiw Karen Zeleznik
FOR THE GRAND THEATRE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR Rachel Peake EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Evan Klassen
ARTISTIC ADMINISTRATION
PRODUCER Lyndee Hansen COMPANY MANAGER Christine Gruenbauer INTERN Claire Meerkamper
EDUCATION & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT DIRECTOR Breanne Ritchie INTERN Danielle Dixon*
ADMINISTRATION
IT Director Barb Whang TESSITURA ADMIN Britt Duncan
OPERATIONS
BUILDING MANAGER Mike MacDonald ASST. BUILDING MANAGER Aaron Simmons
Housekeeping
Luke Morrison Patricia Sexsmith Ben Storie
Security
Ankit Shannon Goneau Marty Peterson Luke Morrison John Whitty
FINANCE
SENIOR MANAGER Magdi Osman FINANCE ASSOCIATE Loraine Oluwadairo ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT Kelly Fraleigh FINANCE CONSULTANT Ansel Tempral PAYROLL Judy Risser
MARKETING & DIGITAL STRATEGY
DIRECTOR Lia Karidas COMMUNICATIONS & PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGER Caitlin Core Melissa Mae Shipley DIGITAL MARKETING STRATEGIST Rana Bajandooh MARKETING PROJECT MANAGER Allison Birs Preston Free Cooper BRAND AMBASSADOR Jacqueline Kahnert Mya Matos Ben Kennes
DEVELOPMENT
DIRECTOR Heather Siskind-Levite DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Monica Coddington MANAGER, EVENTS & RENTALS Sarah Hilton DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR Jacob Wiley EVENT COORDINATOR Kate Armstrong DEVELOPMENT VOLUNTEER Celia Silverson
PATRON services front of house
MANAGER Ali Samuel ASST. MANAGER Indrani Mahadeo SHOW MANAGER Haley Helm BAR & BEVERAGE Jordann Atha Mackenzie Bishop Gabriela Bortoleto Amelia Hilton Ben Kennes Purushoth Megarajah Sabrina Sa Emma Semple Sabrina Stewart
Hannah VanAlphen-Fyfe Landon Wright
Box office
SUPERVISOR Denise Hay REPRESENTATIVES Caitlin Cahill Trinity Harrison Brittney-Lee Lowey Karen McDonald Cheryl Willison
Production
DIRECTOR Paul Fujimoto-Pihl TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Brayden Crawford ASST. TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Sonja Niedermaier PRODUCTION DRIVER Jim Doucette APPRENTICE PRODUCTION MANAGER Lisa Traini*
Properties
HEAD OF PROPS Natalie Kearns PROPS BUILDER/ BUYER Natalie Tsang PROPS BUILDERS Kassidy Noble Laurie Tomei Lisa Waldron
WARDROBE
HEAD OF WARDROBE Lisa Wright ASST. TO THE HEAD OF WARDROBE Meghan Choma CUTTER Elisabeth Mastrandrea Kathryn Sherwin FIRST HANDS Karen Merriam Georgina Schinkel SEWERS Lacie George Shona Humphrey Julia Nelham MILLINERY & ACCESSORIES Elaine Ball Tami MacDonald
*Supported by the TD Emerging Talent Program
WARDROBE APPRENTICE Morgan Cameron*
SCENIC CARPENTRY
HEAD SCENIC CARPENTER Craig Pearson Chris Barker FIRST CARPENTER Rory Leydier SECOND CARPENTER John Michael-Plester SCENIC CARPENTERS Zac Barker Chris Skinner Jonathan Tschirhart
SCENIC ART
HEAD SCENIC ARTIST Richard Lawler SENIOR SCENIC ARTIST Craig Guthrie SCENIC ARTIST Thomas Lappano
SPRIET STAGE
HEAD STAGE CARPENTER Steve West HEAD OF AUDIO Aaron Ouellette HEAD OF FLYS Jared Whitty HEAD OF LIGHTING Liam Arbogast HEAD STAGE WARDROBE Sarah Tracy STAGEHANDS Matthew Balloch Zac Barker Terry Barker Jake Barker Shannah Beadle Jeff Bialkowski Sarah Chase Shane Cline Napoleon Comeau John Craig Darren Decker Michael Down Dan Drouin Jordan Ellison Jared Ellul Corey Evans Jolan Farren Brad Fuller Jim Hammell
Brian Hart Deon Howard Ehren Howard Luka Hunt Robert John Mark Jovanovich Zackery Keating Bart Kinney Jerry Kirshner Tasse Koumoutsidis Jesse Kozma Chris Lake Duane Lauzon Shannon Lee Peyton Lemanski Carson Lewis Fletcher Lockwood Jillian MacDonald Janessa MacIntosh Jessica McCabe Craig Merrow Warren Rigby Aubrey Rodrigues Josiah Schade Logan Schuyler Ken Scott Kyan Scott Heather Sinclair Chris Skinner Wright Staines Rowan Staines Brad Stephenson Justin Stewardson Bonnie Szeto
Kaile Szypniewski Mark Taleski Alex Telfer Jonathan Tschirhart Gary Turrell Bill Vassilakopulos Mary West Sherry Williams Ryan Wilson Sebastian Zagorski BUSINESS AGENT IATSE 105 Sean Barker
AUBURN STAGE
HEAD TECHNICIAN Steve Allen STAGEHANDS Lisa Cardinal Mike Gagain Jay Jacobs Mackenzie Kerr Indrani Mahadeo Heather Meadows Mark Mooney Kyle Noxell Joe Recchia Adam Rejak Holly Rundle Laranya Singh Dylan Trahan Matt VanBussel Ryan Wilson
grand theatre Board of Directors
GRAND THEATRE FOUNDATION BOARd
PRESIDENT George Kerhoulas VICE-PRESIDENT Matt Parr PAST PRESIDENT Anita Shah TREASURER Bill Assini SECRETARY Anne Toal DIRECTORS Christopher Alleyne Robert Bierbaum Nicole Blanchette Carl Cadogan Jamie Campbell Blair Fantillo Alexis Gordon Jennifer Ho Ron Koudys Jennie Kraehling Jane Scholes Jennifer Slay Dr. Robert Sokol
PRESIDENT Ron Koudys VICE-PRESIDENT Jamie Crich TREASURER Bill Assini SECRETARY George Kerhoulas DIRECTORS Tom Burnett Dianne Cunningham Elizabeth Drewlo Chris Jackman Peter Markvoort Bob Schram
NATALIE KEARNS & RACHEL PEAKE
FRONT COVER: Neela Noble & Mark Uhre BACK COVER: Kieran Prouty PhotoS by dahlia katz