THE AMERICAN SPIRITUAL ENSEMBLE THE POWER OF SPIRITUALS Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at 7pm A Virtual Experience
The program for The American Spiritual Ensemble begins on page 53 of this playbill.
2020/2021 SEASON
This playbill is clickable! Click on any ad to visit the advertiser’s website. Their participation supports the Wortham Center’s programming; please thank them with your patronage.
Thank you for helping the Wortham Center stay strong during this crisis. The Wortham Center launched an end-of-year challenge campaign in November, and thanks to all of you, the Wortham exceeded its goal and raised $101,262.36. Thank you for helping the Wortham Center continue to be the heart and soul of our community, bringing you the world-renowned artists in music, theatre, dance and special attractions you love. A special thanks to the following Friends and Board Members who comprised the challenge team and matched gifts dollar-for-dollar up to $50,000.
Joe & Janice Brumit Nancy & Don Ackermann Cole John Ellis Dr. Alan & Suzanne Escovitz Mike Figura Hedy Fischer & Randy Schull Jan & John Getz Francee & Richard Healy
Steve & Rena Hoffman Hardy Holland & John Moody Nancy Houha Henry LaBrun Jerry McAninch Tina McGuire Becky Stone Diana Wortham
Pleasegive givetoday today bring Please toto bring the theperforming performingarts arts back tomorrow. back tomorrow. 2
inspired custom jewelry design www.pauladawkins.com 65 Haywood Street Downtown Asheville 828.254.5088 3
Call to schedule a visit and discover a holistic approach to a joy-filled retirement.
Asheville, NC 800-284-1531 deerfieldwnc.org 4
A MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD
As co-presidents of the Board of Directors, it is our privilege and pleasure to welcome you to the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts. Last year, we welcomed you to our two new theatre spaces, as well as a refurbished Diana Wortham Theatre and lobby. We began a rollicking, jam-packed, celebratory season of artists from all over our region and from around the world. Then the pandemic struck. We were forced to a grinding halt. But our creativity was not. We knew that the performing arts must find a way, and it could not be limited to indoor stages. Our reduced staff quickly rescheduled many artists, moved performances into courtyards and parking lots, and created safe spaces for local performing groups to record and stream shows — and, ultimately, built a season of part-live, part-streamed performances from world-class artists in the same high quality you’ve come to expect. Our season is taking on flesh, with an eventual return to our three stages in mind. The Wortham board and staff are still here, continuing the work of serving our community. We are grateful and happy to have you join us for this historic season. Enjoy!
Derek Allen and Becky Stone Click on any playbill ad to visit advertiser’s website.
For all the latest, connect!
American Spiritual Ensemble cover photo by Henry Huhtulag 5
s e r v i n g w n c f o r o ve r t h i r t y - f i ve ye a r s
Where Locals Go To Heal Asheville
828.258.9016
Since 1985
Hendersonville 828.698.3335
www.chineseacupunctureclinic.com 6
■
THE PRIVATE BANK
A living legacy of community support
Since 1852, Wells Fargo has been helping families build, manage and preserve their wealth. Today, we are proud to continue our tradition of strong community partnership by saluting the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts. To learn more about how Wells Fargo Private Bank can help you achieve your financial goals, please contact: Vicki Epley Wealth Advisor NMLSR ID 511431 (828) 232-3728 vicki.epley@wellsfargo.com Together we'll go far wellsfargoprivatebank.com Investment and Insurance Products:
[OIW-IIIUSIIIC LENDER
►
NOT FDIC Insured
►
NO Bank Guarantee
►
MAY Lose Value
Wells Fargo Private Bank provides financial services and products through Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. and its affiliates. Deposit and loan products offered through Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. Insurance products are available through Insurance subsidiaries of Wells Fargo & Company and underwrinen by non-affiliated Insurance Companies. Not available in all states.© 2013 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801 7
TA S T E F U L P E R F O R M A N C E S
Delivered Nightly
48 biltmore ave
downtown
828-575-2667 c h e stn utas hevi l l e .com
Art you can eat is just around the Corner. 3 Boston Way
OPEN EVERY NIGHT
B I LTM O R E V I L L A G E
828-274-2439
5pm
THECORNERKITCHEN.COM
8
9
Nonprofits transform shared beliefs and hopes into action. www.c f w n c . o rg
Messages from visitors to Mel Chin’s WAKE, on view in Asheville through March 15, 2021. Courtesy of CFWNC. 10
Change Your View, Not Your Lifestyle Ardenwoods Retirement Community offers an incredible variety of on-site amenities and activities including: • Chef-prepared dining • Fitness center • Indoor pool • Library • Salon and spa • Gardening • Nature trails • Art studio and more!
Independent and Assisted Living. Your Choices, Our Priorities.
www.ArdenwoodsRetire.com | 828-295-1050
We’re honored to support the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts.
truist.com Truist Bank, Member FDIC. © 2020 Truist Financial Corporation. Truist, BB&T, SunTrust, the Truist logo, and Truist Purple are service marks of Truist Financial Corporation. All rights reserved.
11
Since 2003, Altavista has offered our clients experience, versatility, discipline, and highly personalized service. Discover what the right team of trusted advisors can do for you.
4 Vanderbilt Park Drive Suite 310 Asheville, NC 28803 828.684.2600 team@altavistawealth.com altavistawealth.com
12
Bill Scobie
helping folks get along with their computers since 1984. Mac & PC All challenges solved. Full service computer assistance you can trust. 828-628-2354 bill@scobie.net
13
Find your place in Asheville. Contact Mosaic Community Lifestyle Realty. Asheville’s Neighborhood REALTORS®
828.707.9556
www.mymosaicrealty.com
search by neighborhood or interests & lifestyles
• Green Homes • Historic Neighborhoods • Downtown Condos • Homes with Character • Luxury Homes • Affordable Homes • Walkable Asheville • Homes with a View 14
15
WORTHAM CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 2020/2021 APPRECIATION AND SUPPORT 2019/2020 SEASON
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Advertisers in the Wortham Center Playbill please give them your patronage Buncombe County and the City of Asheville
ADDITIONAL FUNDING SUPPORT
SOUTH ARTS
A special thank you to our volunteers and ushers!
With Sincere Appreciation It would not be possible to produce the Wortham Center Season and Matinee Series as well as provide first-class performance venues to numerous local arts groups without the generous, annual support of individuals, businesses, foundations, and funders. A listing of these donors can be found beginning on page 27.
16
Thanks for putting art in the heart of the community Bank of America recognizes the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts for its success in bringing the arts to performers and audiences throughout the community. We commend you on creating an opportunity for all to enjoy and share a cultural experience. Visit us at bankofamerica.com/local.
Š2020 Bank of America Corporation | 2935478 | ENT-211-AD 17
Another World Class Art Insitution, right here in Asheville
BrunkAuctions.com Always accepting quality consignments. Call for an evaluation today.
828-254-6846 â–Ş info@brunkauctions.com â–Ş Asheville, North Carolina
18
Difficult transitions can lead to
HOPEFUL BEGINNINGS
Everyone experiences some form of transition during their lifetime. During major life changes, you need the support of an advisor who understands and is trained in the technical and personal sides of financial management. Webb Investments, supporting women with graceful transitions for over 20 years.
828.252.5132 | webbinvestmentservices.com 82 Patton Avenue, Suite 610 | Asheville, NC 28801 Webb Investment Services is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Investment Advisory Services are offered though Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Advisors. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC.
19
SPONSORS THE WORTHAM CENTER GREATLY APPRECIATES THE SUPPORT PROVIDED BY THESE CORPORATE, BUSINESS, MEDIA AND INDIVIDUAL SPONSORS.
SEASON SPONSORS:
CORPORATE & BUSINESS SERIES & PERFORMANCE SPONSORS: Blackledge F o u n dat i o n
JAG CONSTRUCTION
MEDIA SPONSORS:
Special Thanks to our Interactive Virtual Party for Friends Sponsor 20
INDIVIDUAL SERIES & PERFORMANCE SPONSORS: Don & Nancy Ackermann Cole Joel & Marla Adams Derek & Elizabeth Allen Jack & Mary Anderson Michael & Catty Andry Shiner Antiorio & Kathy Robinson Rod & Bess Baird Diana Bilbrey Joel & Deborah Bohan-Berkowitz Lucy & Kirk Borland Joe & Janice Brumit Bill & Clarita Burton Charlie & Patricia Sloan Clogston Patty & Gary Coleman Bob & Carol Deutsch Lynne Courtney Diehl John & Marsha Ellis Dr. Alan & Suzanne Escovitz Hedy Fischer & Randy Shull Craig & Jacqui Friedrich Dan & Anna Garrett Catherine & Will Gay Jan & John Getz David Greiner & James Gray Terrie & Dale Groce Judith Hamill Richard & Francee Healy Steve & Rena Hoffman Susan Holden Hardy Holland & John Moody Nancy Houha Bill & Marilyn Hubbard Ed & Vicki Jenest Sherry Kellet Ann & Jon Kemske MaryAnn Kiefer & David Erwin James King & Jayne Cleveland Mark Kleive & Nicole Groves
Henry LaBrun Photo by Chris Charles
Elaine Lang & Michael Ferguson Joe & Jill Lawrence Joe & Mary Linville Elly Wells and Glen Locascio Amy Loether Rick & Janna Lutovsky Jerry McAninch Gail & Brian McCarthy Kenneth & Chris McClung Hugh & Carol McCollum Tina McGuire Anne McKenzie Karen & Robert Milnes Gay Murrill Alastair McDonald Odom Maureen O’Hallaron Richard Perry Bob & Martha Pierce Bill & Mary Ann Pruehsner Sheila Rains & Marjorie Sullivan Ronna & Rob Resnick Jim Rishebarger & Sue Fernbach Carol & Michael Rosenblum Susan & Charlie Shanor Pat & Becky Stone Shirley Varela & Witek Siwanowicz Charlotte Watson David & Dianne Worley Hank Young Lach Zemp
Sponsors listed are for performances originally dated March 1, 2020 through May 6, 2020, and for the current 2020/2021 Season. 21
22
A niche consultancy company based in North Carolina, focused on emergency and crisis management. Our experts have focused expertise in both public private sector preparedness activities, allowing for development of practical and well integrated solutions.
SERVICE OFFERINGS Organizational Risk Assessment Emergency Operations Plan Development Business Continuity Planning Crisis Communication Training Customized Incident Management Training Disaster Exercise Design & Administration After Action Review Collection & Administration INFO@CRISISFOCUS.COM
23
RIVER ARTS DISTRICT 191 Lyman Street, #144 in Riverview Station
Open 10 – 6 Daily (828) 350-7711 www.jonasgerard.com
Featuring the art of the late Jonas Gerard PHOTO BY TIM BARNWELL
24
Think Global. Drink Local!
Official Spring Water of the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts BlueMoonWater.com 828-253-6060
25
FRIENDS MAKE A DIFFERENCE
to Pho St by
ud
io
Mi
sh a
Ph o
togra phy
Your friends make you laugh. They lend a hand, a hug, and sometimes they help you find your center.
Friends of the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts also play a vital role — providing arts education for children, and supporting an organization that brings world-class artists to our community for unforgettable performances and serves as a home for local arts groups.
Become a Friend of the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts today and enjoy: • Priority seating • Advance ticket ordering • Invitations to special events and VIP receptions • Access to artists • Discounts on class and workshop fees • Donor recognition • and much more Learn more and become a Friend today at worthamarts.org.
Photos by Camilla Calnan Photography
26
FRIENDS MAKE A DIFFERENCE The Wortham Center is grateful for the generous support provided by the following individuals and foundations. Patty and Gary Coleman Lynne Courtney Diehl Jim Rishebarger and Sue Fernbach Craig and Jacqui Friedrich Dan and Anna Garrett Catherine and Will Gay John and Jan Getz David Greiner and James Gray Terrie and Dale Groce Mark Kleive and Nicole Groves Judith Hamill Bill and Marilyn Hubbard Ed and Vicki Jenest Sherry Kellett Ann and Jon Kemske James King and Jayne Cleveland Elaine Lang and Michael Ferguson Joe and Mary Linville Amy Loether Rick and Janna Lutovsky Gail and Brian McCarthy Kenneth and Chris McClung Hugh and Carol McCollum Anne McKenzie Karen and Robert Milnes Gay Murrill Maureen O’Hallaron Richard Perry Bob and Martha Pierce Sheila Rains and Marjorie Sullivan Ronna and Rob Resnick Carol and Michael Rosenblum Susan and Charlie Shanor Pat and Becky Stone Shirley Varela and Witek Siwanowicz Charlotte Watson Hank Young Lach Zemp
LEADERSHIP: $10,000+ Arthur J. Fryar Charitable Remainder Trust Beattie Foundation Hedy Fischer and Randy Shull Richard and Francee Healy Henry LaBrun PACESETTER: $5,000-$9,999 Joel and Deborah Bohan-Berkowitz Blackledge Foundation Joe and Janice Brumit John Ellis Dr. Alan and Suzanne Escovitz Steve and Rena Hoffman Nancy Houha Jill and Joe Lawrence Jerry McAninch Tina McGuire Bill and Mary Ann Pruehsner Elly Wells and Glen Locascio David and Dianne Worley PRODUCER: $2,500-$4,999.99 Anonymous Lucy and Kirk Borland John and Marsha Ellis Bob and Carol Deutsch Susan Holden Hardy Holland and John Moody MaryAnn Kiefer and David Erwin Alastair McDonald Odom Ronna and Rob Resnick Diana Wortham SPONSOR: $1,000-$2,499.99 Don and Nancy Ackermann Cole Joel and Marla Adams Derek and Elizabeth Allen Jack and Mary Anderson Michael and Catty Andry Shiner Antiorio and Kathy Robinson Rod and Bess Baird Diana Bilbrey Bill and Clarita Burton Charlie and Patricia Sloan Clogston
ANGEL: $500-$999.99 Myles Alexander Brad and Diane Arnold Linda Bair Bruce and Elizabeth Baker 27
Just two blocks from the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts, our unique property offers a 60-foot pool and Jacuzzi, fitness center, lounge, restaurant, 275 guest rooms, 21,000 square feet of flexible meeting space and the unparalleled service and first-class amenities that are distinctly Renaissance.
Show Wortham tickets or playbills to receive 20% discount at our Writer’s Bistro restaurant
28
Friends Make A Difference continued Ann Batchelder and Henri Kieffer Keevon Baten Gretchen Batra Paul and Bonnie Bellows Richard Benonis Steve and Joanne Betso Dwight and Norma Bohm Allan and Jean Brown Steve and Linda Brown Otis Brown and Clara Ferguson Michael and Amy Clarke Bill Cosgrove and Margaret Davis Leslie and Jurgen Dierks Lina Evans and Ira Sloan Bolling Farmer Larry and Marian Fincher Peter and Jasmin Gentling Bill and Nancy Gettys Laurie and Jack Hamilton Maureen and Frank Hantke Susan Hill Robert and Linda Hollis Alberto Colonia and George Hunker Keith Keener David Keller and Nora Murdock Karen and Peter Kennedy Jan and Dennis King Andriette Kinsella Marjorie Locke Todd and Renita McDougal Donna and Fred Meyer Joni Mitchell Janine and Robert Obee Doug and Darcy Orr William and Joyce Ossmann Michael and Marlene Pendley Kathleen Quinlan and Marc Parham Susan and Randy Richardson Shearon Roberts Ken and Betsy Schapira Brad and Margo Searson Ilona and Michael Sena Marsha Shlaer Dr. Albert Siemens Shirley Varela and Witek Siwanowicz Jimmy and Sandi Stringer John and Mary Ann Tiano Mr. and Mrs. Alfred C. Tollison, Jr.
Linda Walker Mark and Debbie Ward John and Edythe Wingerter Pamela Winkler Charles Worley Charles and Patricia Zellerbach BENEFACTOR: $250-$499.99 Lorna and Michael Anderberg Anonymous Charles and Stephanie Baer Susan Bicknell and Hardy LeGwin Jay Blanton and Richard Babb Carol and Morty Blumberg Anne Bonnyman John Bordley and Carolyn Fitz Frank and Jean Bourassa Sandra Bradbury Buck and Nancy Bragg Patrick Cafferty Robert and Ellen Carr Pat and George Collett Brent Coyle Deb Davis Lezli and Johnny Davis Jon Devorkin Melinda and Richard Douglass Karen and Bob Dunn Wendy Feinberg Mike and Rachel Figura Ric and Elizabeth Goodman Michael and Sydney Green Sue and Stan Greenberg Larry and Barbara Griswold Al and Betsy Gumpert Peter Wortham Hawes Cynthia Heitger and Jim Gannam Terry and Joanne Hess Dr. and Mrs. Stace Horine Wanda Hubert Diane and Jeff Hutchins InterPlay Asheville Randy and Mary Johnson Mena Kates Karl Katterjohn David and Angela Kemper Mr. and Mrs. Charles Killian Doris Kistler and Fred Wightman 29
30
Friends Make A Difference continued Anna and Bruce Koloseike Bruce and Frances Koran Michael and Caprice Krout Eleanor and Robert Lane Stephen and Barbara Lehrer Keith Levi and Patricia Cameron Theodore Luckman Andy MacPhillimy and Lois Sutton Bill and Janice Maddox David and Madeleine Maxwell Donna and Fred Meyer Lamar Noriega Larry and Pat Notestine Alice Io Oglesby Katharine O’Neal Patti and Cal Oppenheim Tommy and Donna Orr Maryann Parish Jack Parsons Jennifer Pasternack Narendra Patel, MD Clara Prado Jane and John Reeves Nancy and Robert Rietz Stanley Ingber and Laura Robbins Patricia Robertson and Curry First Judy Rose David Russell Cherry and Paul Lentz Saenger Pat Scherer and Sylvia Pardo Babbie and Waid Shelton Mark and Barbara Shevory Mary Kay and Jim Smith Hans and Janet Somey Howard and Juanita Spanogle Heather Spencer and Charles Murray Mara Sprain and John Bates Robert and Patricia Stackman Martine Stolk Tami and John Summerour Dr. Shirley Taffel and George LeRoy Kathy and John Tempelaar-Lietz Fran and Doug Thigpen Cathey Turbyfill James Vaughn and Kevin Broadwater Rich Wasch and Karen Ziff Dr. and Mrs. John and Heather Whitmire
George Wilds and Steve Connell William Winkler Frank Wolf and Sandra Lance Drs. Emily and Jonathan Wood Sherrill and Ted Zoller STAR: $125-$249.99 Mr. and Mrs. Max Alexander Carl Alguire Mary Alm and Darrell Russell Sheldon and Juli Altschul Robert L. Anoff Anonymous Joy and Bob Appleton Bruce Armstrong William and Judy Arrants Bill and Sally Atkins Laura Austin Michelle and Bob Austin George Awad Kathleen Ayres Lisa Bailey Ken and Karen Bain Ann and Iain Baird Charles Baker Frederick Baker Patricia Baker Viva Banzon and Robert Evans Stan Baranowski Cynthia Barrager Barrie Barton Sylvia Bassett in Honor of Tom Tracy Barbara Bassler David Bate and Elli Schmeltekopf Tom and Kay Beardsley Barbara and Martin Beckerman Howard and Sandra Belfor Sandra and John Bell Linda Beltran Barbara Benisch and Jacque Allen Lyn Benjamin Joan Berk Elynn Bernstein Janet Bertinuson and Bridget Dunford Anny Bestel David and Pamela Beyer Martha and Julian Biller 31
WORTHAM CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 2020/2021 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Ile Adaramola
Proudly supporting the arts
Myles Alexander Derek Allen, Co-Chair Mary Anderson Darius Keevon Baten
www.grocefuneralhome.com
Suzanne Escovitz, Treasurer Daniel Garrett, Past President Jan Getz, Vice-Chair Jaime Graeber Frances Healy Stephen Hoffman, Secretary MaryAnn Kiefer Tina McGuire Peter Pollay Becky Stone, Co-Chair 32
Friends Make A Difference continued Stephanie Biziewski Don and Judith Bliss Ronna Bloom Rhea Bockhorst David and Abigail Doggett Bordeaux Belinda Boscardin Drs. Greg and Susan Braunstein Carl Bredahl Anita McCurley and Sandra Bromble Bill and Marilyn Brown Dr. Steve Brown David and Lin Brown Michael McCallion and Mary Byrd Buchanan Clinton Bugg and Jeff Nucey Bill and Lee Burdett Eve Burton Bonnie and Bob Busby Robin Byrne and Adam Thanz James Cahill M. Regina Cameron Susan Campbell Brad and Judy Campbell Jeannette and Robert Cannon David and Margaret Carle Michael Carroll and Glenda Overbeck Donald and Cynthia Carson Peggy Carson Georgia Case Phil and Laura Casey Jay Casselberry Louise Cate Robert Chapin John Chapman Mary Daniels and Jess Chapman Gene and Maggie Charleton Peter Chaveas Dr. Kenneth P. Chepenik Don and Sharon Christensen Sharon Cohen Sarah Corley and Neil Peterson Mary and Keith Costello Thelma and Roland Cousins Ann Cowden Julie Cowden Bray Creech Stan Cross Beverly Wright Cutter
Jon Daggerhart Donald Dahms and Lani Ray Philip C. Davis, MD Libby and Michael de Caetani in honor of Dorothy Westly Skip and Fran Dederick Betty Dickson John Donahoe Marta Donahoe Cynthia Donahue William N. Dorfman, Ed.D. Richard and Leslie Dressler Robert DuBrul and Judith Hoy Jan Duwelius Mary Edwards Laurie and Rudolf Ekstein Dreamwind Flutes David and Ellen Feingold Fred and Lynda Feldman Anita Feldman Patti and Rich Fertel David and Susan Feuer Carol Fisk Tom and Joy Flora Kevin Foley Ellen Foltz Priestley and Brent Ford Jean and Don Forrister Les and Jennifer Foss Joan Foster Patrick Fox Charles and Tricia Franck Mindi Friedwald Linda and Jeffrey Fromson Stephen Frost William Fryar James Gallagher Gertrude Galynker Linda and Dan Gilbert Marty and Carol Gillen Benevity Community Impact Fund Jan Gnadt Daniel Goddard Sid and Jane Goehring Rebecca Goggans Ellen Golden Mary Goodkind and Lindley Garner 33
34
Friends Make A Difference continued Joen and William Goodman Tom and Linda Goodwin Barbara and Jeff Gould Ted Graczyk and Paul Gusmerotti Jaime Graeber Bill and Deborah Graham Betsy Gray and Ed Lunow Lisa Green Ray Green and Cathy Rezak Ron and Jane Greene Drs. Mary Ellen Griffin and Wendy Coin Raymond and Deborah Gurriere Ellen Guthrie Jean and Allen Haggar Cliff Hall Kay Hall Iris Hardin William Harding Patrick Hardy Crystal Harmon Melissa and Jerry Harrelson Gibbie and Chuck Harris Tom and Marie Hartye Ernie and Barb Harwig Rabbi Patti Haskell Philip and Sylvia Hawkins Debra Hawley Mary Beth Hayes Rebecca Heartz Barbara Heller Roger Helm and Deborah Freeman Alice Helms Hal and Constance Hemme Jim and Betty Henderson Marilynne Herbert Lyndi Hewitt John Hicks Ben and Martha Hill Dan and Linda Hinchliffe Alan Baumgarten and Judy Hoffman Michael Hofman Tonya Hogan Jo Hogan Sandra Holden Greg and Mary Howell Sam and Ann Hubbard Jim and Bonnie Hull
David Hurand and Martha Salyers Richard Hurley In Honor of Jim Trantham Mary Hutchison and Catherine Quinn Toby Ives and Sally Broughton-Ives Susan Posey and Bill Jacobs David Janson Jeanne Jeffrey Susan Jenkins David Jenkins Susan Jensen Cheryl Johnson Sally Jones John Ellery and Elizabeth Jones Robert Jordan and Martha Oatway Dr. Andrew Jurik Kate and Kevin Justus Charis and Bruce Kabat Charlotte and Harold Kaplan Jean and Joe Karpen Leah Karpen Ed and Carol Kaufmann Jess and Phyllis Key John King and Peggy Clark Richard and Linda Kirkendall Caroline Knox Susan Koenig and Tim Arem Drs. Louis and Marilyn Kolton Dwarshuis Helen and Matthew Kraus Mr. and Mrs. Michael Krimmelbein Diane Kyker Theresa and Gary Landwirth Thomas Lang and Deborah Lewis Ginger Lang Marc Langweiler Stephen LaPointe and Claudia Jimenez Jonathon Lawrie Lynn Lederer and Leslie Long Walter Leginski Nan Leininger Rose Levering and William Abbuehl Robert Levin Becky Lewis Bill and Susan Loftis James Losse and Ellen Haack Paula O’Hara and Joe Luna Bonnie Luria and Kelly Gloger Mary Lynn 35
36
Friends Make A Difference continued David Mackel InterPlay Asheville Susan Macy Judy Major Howard Malovany Mr. and Mrs. William W. Mance Martin and Kathryn Mann Ernest Marshall Millie Massey Kate Mathews Michael Maxwell Judith McAfee Richard and Joy McConnell John and Jansen McCreary Kelly McEnany Fred McKinney Dr. Darryl McLeod Terry and Alexandra McPherson Gail Meadows Bob and Ulana Mellor Dr. Roger A. Miller and Judith Mishkin Miller Thomas and Martha Mills Nick Mimken Michelle Minks Elizabeth Minor Glen and Hanne Miska Jean Moburg David Moore Pattie Moore and Lea Stoll Aaron and Anna Morris Jann Nance and Chester Pankowski Joanne Neary and Les Dunne Kirk Avent and Nancee Neel Steve and Wendy Newman Cathy Nichols Priscilla Nullet Susan Oliver Rhea Ormond John Orr Marsha Ott Judy and Rick Ott Theresa Oursler Bradford and Deenie Owen Dana Owen Robert Pace Cindy Page
Danna and Bob Park Valerie and Ron Patton Rose and Fred Patz Jim and Carolyn Payton Lita Perkins in Memory of John E. Perkins and Quita B. Foster Vicki Phillips Kaye Phillips Elizabeth and William Phoenix Lawrence Pierce Dan and Gloria Pincu Brayden Pitcairn Jane Pitt Peggy and John Ponak Elizabeth Pou Mary L. Powell Morris Letsinger and Liz Preyer Amira and Thomas Ranney Pamela Reid Jonathan Reily Heather Hartley and Phil Reynolds Brook Reynolds David and Karen Reynolds Gail Rhodes Jennifer Rish and Constance Lofton John and Pam Roeth Alan Rosenthal Susan and Lewis Rothlein Rhonda Sachais Celeste Sandridge Betsy and Jimmy Savely Charlene Scharf and Sophie Steinberg Elizabeth and Gary Schenk Barry and Jackie Schieb Steve Schimmel Connie Schrader and Clay Rowan Lizz and Frie Schulz Donald and Jonel Schuster Tom and Jean Schwandes Leigh Schwietz Jill and Bill Scobie Todd Seeleman Leslie Shaw Peter Shell Anita Shields Cynthia Shilkret
37
38
Friends Make A Difference continued Ellen Silver Janise and Rick Silverman Ernest and Vicki Skidmore Hope Skilling Anna Skinner Sarah Slechta Bret Sleight Mr. Cameron Smail and Dr. Wendy Willoughby Penny Smith and Margaret Bray Ann and James Smith Howard and Honey Solomon Sandra Sonner Karen Spacek Elke and Ted Spirakis Barbara Stalzer Peter and Melissa Stanz Amy Star and Robert Falanga Louis and Sally Stein George and Leslie Stephens Bonnie Stewart Nancy Stewart Marty and Barbara Stickle Jeff Stillson Stewart Stokes Robert and Pat Stolz Dr. Shelley Stone Hank and Maria Strauss Darrell and Caroline Strong Cathy Stryker Susan Swiger Bob and Christine Swoap Margery Tabankin Lee and Kate Thayer Deborah Thompson Richard and Katherine Thornburgh
Claire Tiernan Bruce Black and Helen Toms Lorili Toth Katherine Triplett John and Lori Turk Steven Turner and Charlotte Kassab Terry Van Buren Charles and Joanna Vanderkolk William Swarts and Susan Waldman Deb Walker Ann Ward Timothy Warner and Barb McCampbell Hope Warshaw and Don Kraus Harold and Anita Watsky Michael Way Philip Weast and Keith Bramlett Virginia Weiler Marilyn and Mark Weinstein Dr. Gretchen Whipple Dave Nelson and Margo White Cliff and Lisa Whitfield Guy and Linda Wierman Paul Wilczynski and Joan Brasier George Wilds and Steve Connell William and Gail Wiley Karen Wilkinson Steve WItherspoon Anne Wolf Sherry Wothke Michael Wrenn Lynn Wright and Sybil Adcock Carroll Ann Wykoff Michelle Yanik Gregory and Marjorie Zack Michael Ziecheck and Debra Bowen
This listing reflects membership donations between March 1, 2019 and December 31, 2020. Thank you!
FOUNDATION SUPPORT Arthur J. Charitable Remainder Trust of the CFWNC Asheville Area Arts Council The Beattie Foundation Blackledge Foundation Community Foundation of Western North Carolina
Eaton Charitable Foundation Hamill Family Endowment Fund of the CFWNC National Endowment for the Arts New England Foundation for the Arts North Carolina Arts Council The Robert and Mercedes Eichholz Foundation SouthArts 39
We’re behind the arts in Asheville.
365 Merrimon Ave blackbirdframe.com | 828.225.3117 CUSTOM FRAMING • ART • GIFTS • HOME DECOR • MIRRORS
A World of Music
Grass Roots Public Radio 40
At the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts, you’ll find inspiration, education, and joy.
This is your center.
Come in and build your legacy. You have experienced the magic of dance, music, and theatre in the Diana Wortham Theatre, the Tina McGuire Theatre, and the Henry LaBrun Studio. You’ve supported performing arts through your contributions and membership. You are a passionate patron. Continue your commitment to the Wortham Center with a legacy gift. It is as simple as including the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts in your estate plans. Your gift will have a lasting impact on the future of performing arts at the Wortham Center.
This is your center. Let it be part of your legacy.
For more information about planned gift to the Wortham Center, please contact Jennifer Hampton, Development Director, at jennifer@worthamarts.org or 828-210-9849. 41
Elevate Your Perspective
Blue Ridge Public Radio is everything you love about public radio. BPR News offers NPR and local news coverage. BPR Classic provides classical music, NPR news and entertainment.
BPR.org
42
Improve balance, increase flexibility, like yourself more! Discover the Feldenkrais MethodÂŽ Lavinia Plonka, GCFP, RSME www.laviniaplonka.com 828-275-4838
43
43
44
MAGAZINE
WHAT YOU
LOVE TOM MOORS
MICHAEL OPPENHEIM
CAMERON LANE
ABOUT WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA
SUBSCRIBE TODAY! 1 YEAR (4 ISSUES) ONLY $16.95 SUBSCRIBE ONLINE AT WNCMAGAZINE.COM/SUBSCRIBE OR CALL (877) 333-4962 45
Youth Education Scholarship FUND
Children from economically challenged families are used to hearing the word “no.” At the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts, we believe that all children should have access to the arts – regardless of their economic status.
With your help, we say “YES.”
YES to field trips.
For many children in Western North Carolina, a field trip to the Wortham Center is their first exposure to a live performing arts event. Unfortunately, school funding for activities is increasingly limited. Most teachers must ask students to bring money from home to attend a performance with their class. For some students, this is simply not an option. No child should miss the opportunity to learn through the arts. Donors to the Y.E.S. Fund make it possible for thousands of children in Western North Carolina to experience the arts every year regardless of economic circumstances. All it takes is $10 to ensure that a child is not left behind. For only $250 you can send an entire classroom of children to the theatre.
YES to artists in schools and community. The Y.E.S. Fund sends nationally recognized artists into local classrooms and community centers, and makes possible to access virtual experiences in order to deepen learning, provide students with positive role models and expand the arts experiences beyond the walls of the theatre.
YES to emerging artists.
You can open doors for the next generation of performing artists through a new scholarship program for promising high school seniors. The Emerging Artists Fund supports students pursuing a career in the performing arts by providing scholarships to further their professional studies.
Help students dream BIG. Make a donation to the Y.E.S. Fund today. For more information or to make a donation, call 828-210-9849 or visit worthamarts.org. 46
Y.E.S. Fund Supporters Thanks to the generosity of the following donors, thousands of children attended a live performance at the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts free of charge in the past ten seasons. Donors to the Y.E.S. (Youth Education Scholarship) Fund make it possible for children to deepen their learning by sponsoring artists in schools and providing scholarships to promising high school seniors to pursue a career in the arts. The following list reflects donations received to the Y.E.S. Fund between March 1, 2019 and December 31, 2020. Bobbi Powers Kathryn Ramirez Susan and Lewis Rothlein Mara Sprain and John Bates James Vaughn and Kevin Broadwater Lynn and Stephen Weinrib
Program Sponsors: $1,000+ Joel and Marla Adams Arby’s Joel and Deborah Bohan-Berkowitz Lyn Dunn Eaton Charitable Foundation The Robert and Mercedes Eichholz Foundation Huisking Foundation Sherry Kellett Ann and Jon Kemske Downtown Asheville Residential Neighbors (DARN) Henry LaBrun Jill and Joe Lawrence Bob and Martha Pierce PNC Holly and Greg Pollock Dianne and David Worley
Student Sponsors: Up to $249.99 Deborah and JosĂŠ Alvarez Shiner Antiorio and Kathy Robinson Kathleen Ayres Ken and Karen Bain Frederick Baker Sylvia Bassett in Honor of Tom Tracy Gretchen Batra Janet Bertinuson and Bridget Dunford Susan Bicknell and Hardy LeGwin Martha and Julian Biller Linda Blair Walter Brewer Lana S. Burns M. Regina Cameron Susan Campbell Jeannette and Robert Cannon Joshua Canter Don and Sharon Christensen Gracemarie Cirino Madelon and Scott Clark Michael and Amy Clarke Patty and Gary Coleman Bill Cosgrove and Margaret Davis Bob and Carol Deutsch William N. Dorfman, Ed.D. Melinda and Richard Douglass Richard and Leslie Dressler Robert DuBrul and Judith Hoy Karen and Bob Dunn John and Marsha Ellis Lina Evans and Ira Sloan Wendy Feinberg Fred and Lynda Feldman Marshall and Heidi Fields Joan Foster Charles and Tricia Franck
Classroom Sponsors: $250-$999.99 Mary and Jack Anderson Rod and Bess Baird Diana Bilbrey Anne Bonnyman Steve and Linda Brown David and Margaret Carle Deb Davis Lynne Courtney Diehl Larry and Marian Fincher Hedy Fischer and Randy Shull Jan and John Getz Terry and Joanne Hess Susan Holden Nancy Houha Bill and Marilyn Hubbard Alberto Colonia and George Hunker Suzanne Jones Sally Jones Becky Lewis Ann and Bob Lewis Tina McGuire Jim and Pat Morris Janine and Robert Obee Ruth Planey 47
48
Y.E.S. Fund Supporters continued Jonas Gerard Fine Art, Inc Mary Goodkind and Lindley Garner Barbara and Jeffrey Gould Lisa Green Sue and Stan Greenberg Larry and Barbara Griswold Al and Betsy Gumpert Kay Hall Laurie and Jack Hamilton Maureen and Frank Hantke Pilar Hartman Ernie and Barb Harwig Sam and Pamela Hausfather Cynthia Heitger and Jim Gannam Hal and Constance Hemme Susan Hill Dan and Linda Hinchliffe Steve and Rena Hoffman Alan Baumgarten and Judy Hoffman Sandra Holden Diane and Jeff Hutchins Susan Posey and Bill Jacobs Ed and Vicki Jenest Susan Jensen Randy and Mary Johnson Kate Justus Ellen Kaczmarek and Gary MacPeek Jean and Joe Karpen Leah Karpen Jess and Phyllis Key John King and Peggy Clark Anna and Bruce Koloseike Michael and Caprice Krout Janet Laube Stephen and Barbara Lehrer Susan and Jeremy Lerner James Losse and Ellen Haack Paula O’Hara and Joe Luna InterPlay Asheville Kathryn and Martin Mann Marilynn Mattox Pat McCauley Hugh and Carol McCollum Susan McDaniel James and Linda McDonald Thomas and Martha Mills Susan Minkler Glen and Hanne Miska David Moore Aaron and Anna Morris
Marianne Newman Patti and Cal Oppenheim John Orr Bradford and Deenie Owen Dana Owen Rose and Fred Patz Jim and Carolyn Payton Lita Perkins in Memory of Quita B. Foster Mary L. Powell Morris Letsinger and Liz Preyer Kathleen Quinlan and Marc Parham Anna Reese Frank Reynolds Gail Rhodes Patricia Robertson and Curry First Penny Rose Betsy and Jimmy Savely Ken and Betsy Schapira Tom and Jean Schwandes Todd Seeleman Anita Shields Barry Silverstein and Sharon Wood Ernest and Vicki Skidmore Sarah Slechta Barbara Sloss Ann and James Smith Brian Smith Howard and Honey Solomon Sandra Sonner Robert and Patricia Stackman Mary Stair Pat and Becky Stone Darrell and Caroline Strong Kathy and John Tempelaar-Lietz Shirley H. Tenney and Paul Merriken Fran and Doug Thigpen Charles Throckmorton Mark and Debbie Ward Timothy Warner and Barb McCampbell Virginia Weiler Guy and Linda Wierman Karen Wilkinson John and Edythe Wingerter Pamela Winkler Drs. Emily and Jonathan Wood Sherry Wothke Lynn Wright and Sybil Adcock Hank Young Sherrill and Ted Zoller 49
WORTHAM CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
2020/2021 STAFF Proudly supporting the Managing Director Rae Geoffrey
of communities across the mountains for more than 17 years!
Finance Director Anne Wolf Development Director Jennifer Hampton Community Engagement Director Jared McEntire Patron Services Manager Coco Palmer Dolce Technical Director Sylvia Pierce Production Manager Michael Lowery Facilities Manager Jeanette Houston Development Associate Haylee Wilkie Marketing Director Elly Wells
The Laurel of Asheville thelaurelofasheville AshevilleLaurel The Laurel of Asheville
Marketing Project Manager Kate Justus Creative Services Leslie Shaw Design
TheLaurelofAsheville.com 50
• Account Management
• Bookkeeping
• Business Consulting
• Back Office Support
• Human Resource Consulting • Strategic Planning • QuickBooks Training
• Money Management
• Personal, Business, & Estate Tax Prep
New Starts to Fresh Starts. We are here to help.
51
WORKSHOPS with
Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo “The Dying Swan” • February 19 at 7pm Learn Les Ballets Trockadero’s signature work, “The Dying Swan”! Participants will be given a short warmup and overview of the history of the ballet and will then be taught the full Trocks work, with an opportunity to put your own comic spin on this classic ballet. Suitable for all levels of dance experience. Be ready to move!
Makeup Demo • February 26 at 7pm
Photo by Sascha Vaughan
See how The Trocks transform from dancer to diva! Join a Trocks dancer in his virtual dressing room to see his makeup routine for a typical performance transformation. Participants will have the opportunity to chat with company members to learn more about what it takes to get ready for a show and his journey to become a member of the Trockadero.
wo r t h a m a r t s . o r g (828)257-4530
YOUR DREAMS. OUR MISSION.
Nationally recognized excellence with an Asheville vibe A SHEVI L L E • M A D I S O N • E N KA • SO U T H • W O O D FIN • (8 2 8 ) 3 9 8 - 7 9 0 0 • A B T E C H . E D U
52
THE AMERICAN SPIRITUAL ENSEMBLE THE POWER OF SPIRITUALS Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at 7pm
Photo by Henry Huhtulag
A Virtual Experience
Diana Bilbrey Sponsored by
John & Marsha Ellis Tina McGuire
Richard & Francee Healy
Hedy Fischer & Randy Shull
53
Henry LaBrun Lach Zemp
WORTHAM CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 2020/2021 SEASON
The American Spiritual Ensemble Everett McCorvey, Founder and Music Director www.americanspiritualensemble.com Presents
The Power of Spirituals Virtual Concert 2021 With Guest, Eileen Guenther, Author and Narrator Walk Together Children
Arr. Wm Harry Smith Welcome Everett McCorvey, Founder and Director American Spiritual Ensemble
Welcome from the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center Christopher Miller, Director of Education National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
Musical Selection
“Gimme Dat Ol’ Time Religion” (With Prayer) Music by Roy Ringwald from God’s Trombones Poems by James Weldon Johnson based upon American Negro Folk Sermons Alicia Helm-McCorvey, Exhorter
Old Time Religion Commentary Eileen Guenther, Author Reading Kenneth Overton Musical Selection
“Witness” Kenneth Overton, Baritone James Davis, Piano
Arr. Hall Johnson
Reading Phumzile Sojola Musical Selection
“Soon Ah Will Be Done” American Spiritual Ensemble Karen Slack, Soprano Soloist Ali Bar, Djembe 54
Arr. Robert Jefferson
WORTHAM CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 2020/2021 SEASON LIFE OF THE ENSLAVED Commentary Eileen Guenther, Author Musical Selection
“No More Auction Block” Nathaniel Thompson, Bass Tedrin Blair Lindsay, Piano
Anonymous
Musical Selection
“Over My Head” Victoria Ellington, Soprano
Anonymous
Musical Selection
“Every Time I Feel the Spirit” American Spiritual Ensemble
Arr. Stacey V. Gibbs
Reading Everett McCorvey
Musical Selection Erica Gabriel, Soprano Tedrin Blair Lindsay, Piano Musical Selection
“Watch and Pray”
“Spiritual Reflection” American Spiritual Ensemble Key’mon Murrah, Countertenor
Arr. Undine Smith Moore
Arr. Moses Hogan
ESCAPE and CODE Commentary Eileen Guenther, Author Reading Victoria Ellington Musical Selection
“Steal Away” Victoria Ellington, Soprano
Anonymous
Reading Kathy Bullock Musical Selection
“’Way Over in Beulah-Lan”
arr. By Hall Johnson
Musical Selection
“Swing Low” Jeryl Cunningham, Soprano
Anonymous
55
WORTHAM CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 2020/2021 SEASON Musical Selection
“Great God Almighty” American Spiritual Ensemble Kevin Tate, Dancer Ali Bar, Djembe
Arr. Stacey V. Gibbs
Reading Andrea Jones-Sojola Musical Selection
“Go Down, Moses” American Spiritual Ensemble Nathaniel Thompson, Bass Soloist Tedrin Blair Lindsay, Piano Ali Bar, Djembe
Musical Selection
“Didn’t My Lord Deliver Daniel” American Spiritual Ensemble Tedrin Blair Lindsay, Piano Kevin Tate, Dancer
Arr. Johnie Dean
Arr. Robert L. Jefferson
Reading Chauncy Packer Musical Selection
“Dry Bones” Chauncy Packer, Tenor Jim Davis, Piano
Arr. Margaret Bonds
Commentary Eileen Gunther, Author Musical Selection
“Deep River” Nathaniel Thompson, Bass Tedrin Blair Lindsay, Piano
Arr. Harry T. Burleigh
HOPE AND FREEDOM Reading Nathaniel Thompson
Musical Selection “Ride On King Jesus” Musical Selection
“Who Is Dat-A-Yonder?” American Spiritual Ensemble Erica Gabriel, Soprano Soloist Tedrin Blair Lindsay, Piano 56
Arr. Hall Johnson Erin Duane Brooks, Tenor Arr. Jacqueline Hairston
WORTHAM CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 2020/2021 SEASON
Musical Selection
“Stand the Storm” Jeryl Cunningham, Soprano Jim Davis, Piano
Arr. Tim Amukele
BLACK LIVES MATTER Musical Selection
“Don’ You Let Nobody Turn You Round’” American Spiritual Ensemble Alicia Helm McCorvey, Soprano Soloist
Arr. Jacqueline Hairston
Commentary Eileen Guenther, Author Musical Selection
“We Shall Walk Through The Valley In Peace’
Arr. Moses Hogan
American Spiritual Ensemble Musical Selection
“This Little Light of Mine” Key’mon Murrah, Countertenor Kaymon Murrah, Tenor Tedrin Blair Lindsay, Piano
Arr. Johnie Dean
Conclusion Everett McCorvey Musical Selection
“Lift Every Voice and Sing” American Spiritual Ensemble American Spiritual Ensemble Everett McCorvey, Founder and Conductor Jeryl Cunningham Fleming, Assistant Conductor Tedrin Blair Lindsay, Piano Peggy Stamps Business Manager
57
Arr. Roland Carter
WORTHAM CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 2020/2021 SEASON American Spiritual Ensemble Transylvania University Performance Lexington, Kentucky Sopranos Altos Erica Gabriel Key’mon Murrah Jessica Bayne Kendra Beasley Alicia Helm McCorvey Kathy Bullock Kathrin Thawley Tenors Basses Kay’mon Murrah Michael Preacely Wagner Mauricio Pastor Phillip Bullock Mark KanoClement Baloyi Whit WhitakerNathaniel Thompson William Clay Thompson PIANIST : Tedrin Blair Lindsay DJEMBE : Ali Barr
American Spiritual Ensemble American Choral Directors Eastern Region Convention Rochester, New York Performance SOPRANO ALTO Nicole Butler GeDeane Graham Jeryl Cunningham-Fleming Hope Koehler Alicia Helm Key’Mon Murrah Shenika John Jordan Courtney Porter Kathrin Thawley Angela Owens TENOR BASS Edwin Cotton Richard Coleman Kay’Mon Murrah Martin Hargrove Taiwan Norris Kenneth Overton Chauncey Packer Michael Parham Kevin Webb Nigel Sangster John Wesley Wright Kyle Yampiro PIANIST : Tedrin Blair Lindsay DJEMBE : Ali Barr
58
WORTHAM CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 2020/2021 SEASON American Spiritual Ensemble American Cathedral Performance Paris, France SOPRANOS ALTS Karen Wesley Wright Jeryl Cunnigham-Fleming Roderick L. George Angela Brown Cameo Humes Rebecca Eaddy Taiwan Norris Angela Owens Bernard Holcomb ALTOS BARITONES Leah Dexter Adam Richardson Hope Koehler Phillip Boykin Gus Mercante Keith Dean Sarah Nordin Martin Hargrove Matthew Truss Kevin Thompson PIANIST : Tedrin Blair Lindsay DJEMBE : Ali Barr
American Spiritual Ensemble DiMenna Center for Classical Music - Benzaquen Hall New York, New York Errin Brooks, Tenor Kenneth Overton, Bariton Andrea Jones-Sojola, Soprano Chauncey Packer, Tenor Phumzile Sojola, Tenor Jeryl Cunningham-Fleming, Soprano Kevin Tate, Dancer James Davis, Pianist Ouinton Tramm, Videographer Jason Tramm, Consultant, Videographer Peggy Stamps, The SquarePeg Group, Inc, Business Affairs
59
WORTHAM CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 2020/2021 SEASON Acknowledgements for the ASE 2021 Virtual Tour Broadcast Performance Video Director, Editor, Videographer Nick Helton nickkih@yahoo.com Audio Production Dave Henderson Dave Henderson Recording dbhmuse@gmail.com daverec.com Paris, France Video Production Michel Violet Biopics Productions michel.violet@biopics.fr Digital Images New York Public Library Digital Collections Nypl.org Canva Library of Congress Loc.gov Kelsey Loeslie kelseyloeslie@gmail.com
Biographies The American Spiritual Ensemble was founded by Everett McCorvey in 1995. The mission of the American Spiritual Ensemble is to keep the American Negro Spiritual alive. Its members have sung in theaters and opera houses around the world, including the Metropolitan Opera, New York City Opera, Houston Grand Opera, The Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall, and abroad in Italy, Germany, Britain, Scotland, Spain, China, and Japan. The repertoire of the American Spiritual Ensemble ranges from opera to spirituals to Broadway. The members of the American Spiritual Ensemble are soloists in their own right and have thrilled audiences around the world with their dynamic renditions of classic spirituals, jazz, and Broadway numbers highlighting the Black experience. Everett McCorvey is a native of Montgomery, Alabama. He received his degrees from the University of Alabama, including a Doctorate of Musical Arts. Dr. McCorvey has performed in major centers around the world including the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., the Metropolitan Opera in New York, Aspen Music Festival in Colorado, Radio City Music Hall in New York and in England, Germany,
60
WORTHAM CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 2020/2021 SEASON Italy, Spain, Japan, China, Hungary, Poland and the Czech and Slovak Republics. During the summers, Dr. McCorvey has served on the artist faculty of the American Institute of Musical Studies (AIMS) in Graz, Austria and the Intermezzo Opera Program in Palm Beach, Florida. Currently he is on the Summer Artist Faculty of the Bay View Music Festival in Bay View, Michigan and conductor at Mythos Opera Festival in Taromina, Sicily. Dr. McCorvey is a Professor of Voice, Endowed Chair in Opera Studies and Director of Opera at the University of Kentucky. In September of 2010, Dr. McCorvey served as the Executive Producer of the Opening and Closing Ceremonies for the Alltech 2010 FEI World Equestrian Games held in Lexington. The Alltech 2010 FEI World Equestrian Games remain to date, the largest equestrian event ever held in the United States. Dr. McCorvey also serves as the Artistic Director of the National Chorale of New York City www.nationalchorale.org. Follow Dr. McCorvey on www. everettmccorvey.com and the American Spiritual Ensemble at www.americanspiritualensemble.com. Ali Barr, Djembe, was born in Philadelphia. He has been playing percussion instruments and jazz trumpet, from childhood under the guidance of his father, Dr. James Barr, and master drummer, Bobby Crowder. A graduate of Temple University in Philadelphia, Ali has recorded and performed extensively with various artists, including Grammy nominated Russell Gunn, the legendary Roy Ayers, and Jamaledeen Tacuma. Errin Brooks, Tenor, currently based in New York, hails from Detroit, MI and received his Master of Music Degree from Bowling Green State University. Most recently, Mr. Brooks covered Dick Johnson in Fanciulla del West with New York City Opera after singing Pinkerton in Madama Butterfly and Verdi’s Requiem with Utah Festival Opera. In April 2018, the George London Award-winning tenor will sing Canio in I Pagliacci with Boheme Opera of New Jersey. Dr. Kathy Bullock is Professor Emeritus of music at Berea College, Berea, Kentucky where she worked for almost thirty years. She is also currently an Adjunct Professor of Music at University of Kentucky, School of Music. Having earned the Ph.D. and M.A. in Music Theory from Washington University in St. Louis, MO, and a B.A. in Music from Brandeis University, MA, her work has included teaching music and general studies courses, directing the college gospel choirs, designing and implementing international courses in West Africa and the Caribbean. Dr. Bullock is now performing and conducting workshops in African American Sacred Music throughout the United States, Europe and Africa, sharing hope and joy during these challenging times. Praised by Opera News for his “appealingly suave baritone”, Phillip K. Bullock is a native of Washington DC and has been featured in operas, recitals and concerts throughout the United States. Phillip had the pleasure of performing the role of Jake, in Porgy and Bess, at the Sächsische Staatsoper in Dresden, Germany and covered the same role in The Royal Danish Opera’s new production of Porgy and Bess in Copenhagen, Denmark. Last season, Phillip completed residencies with both Cincinnati Opera and Virginia Opera, both performing and covering in their productions of Gounod’s Romeo et Juliet, Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess and Donizetti’s l’Elisir d’Amore respectively. He has also been seen in concert performances of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony, and Kurt Weil’s Seven Deadly Sins with National Music Festival Orchestra in Washington, D.C. in addition to Il barbiere di Siviglia, La Fanciulla del West, Don Carlos, Le Nozze di Figaro, Carmen, Die Zauberflöte, La Boheme, and Mark Adamo’s Little Women. In 2020, Phillip made his debut with the Atlanta Opera in Francesca Zambello’s production of Porgy and Bess and will premiere Gregory Spears’ new opera Castor and Patience with Cincinnati Opera this coming summer. For more information www.PhillipBullock.com.
61
WORTHAM CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 2020/2021 SEASON Toronto-born classical guitarist Danielle Cumming is a celebrated performer and teacher. Holding a doctorate from McGill University, she is Artistic Director of the Marlow Guitar International Concert Series in Washington, D.C., and heads of the guitar area at Salisbury University in Maryland. After a year of study in Spain, Danielle released her solo, world music-influenced CD postcards, a recording of 20th century repertoire featuring internationally acclaimed composers. Dr. Cumming is also a certified yoga instructor and has created/taught yoga programs to help musicians prevent injuries and handle performance anxiety. Danielle is a D’Addario Artist. Jeryl Cunningham-Fleming, Soprano, and Assistant Director of the American Spiritual Ensemble, has been heard in more than ten countries and on four continents. She was featured in several new compositions this year which includes Symphony No. 2 – the Most Jubilant Song by Glen Roven, and Thy Will Be Done, an Easter Cantata written by Angela Rice. Recent performances include Revelations (Alvin Ailey) and Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall. Dr. Cunningham received her bachelor’s degree in vocal performance at Oakwood University. She obtained her master’s degree in vocal performance at Mannes College of Music; and has completed a doctoral degree at the University of Kentucky. For more information www.jerylcunningham.com. Soprano Victoria Ellington recently received her Master of Music from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM) where she studied with Professor William McGraw. At CCM, Ellington has been seen in Cavalli›s La Calisto as L’Eternità as well as Esmerelda in Smetana’s The Barterd Bride.. Victoria also sang in Blind Injustice and Awakenings with Opera Fusion: New Works program, a joint collaboration between Cincinnati Opera and CCM Opera. In past summers she was also a part of Cincinnati Opera’s production of Porgy and Bess. She is looking forward to participating in the world premiere of Fierce by William Menefield with Cincinnati Opera in the 2021 season. Erica Gabriel, Soprano, received her Bachelor’s Degree in Vocal Performance and Pedagogy from Oakwood University and her Master’s degree in Vocal Performance from the University of Michigan. She has performed with the Chicago Symphony orchestra, Savannah Philharmonic and the Jackson Symphony. Erica is also the 2018 gold medal winner of the American Traditions Vocal Competition. Eileen Guenther, Professor of Church Music Emerita at Wesley Theological Seminary, holds bachelor’s degrees from the University of Kansas and graduate degrees from The Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. A noted author, church musician, and organ recitalist, Dr. Guenther has written two critically acclaimed books: Rivals or a Team: Clergy-Musician Relationships in the 21st Century and In Their Own Words: Slave Life and the Power of Spirituals. She has a passion for the power of the Spiritual and has led over one hundred presentations on In Their Own Words with choirs, soloists and congregations from Atlanta, GA to Ashland Oregon. The most common response to these presentations has been: “I have sung these Spirituals all my life and I never knew that.” Alicia Helm McCorvey, Soprano, has performed with various companies including Metropolitan Opera, North Carolina Opera, Chautauqua Opera, Miami Opera, Bronx Opera (NY), Summerfest (Lexington, KY), Paragon Musical Theater (Lexington, KY) and has performed in Spain, England, Brazil, the Czech Republic, and Japan, among others. She has a Bachelor degree from Indiana University and a Master of Arts degree from New York University. Ms. Helm has also studied at The Juilliard School, Manhattan School of Music, and the D.M.A. program at the University of Kentucky.
62
WORTHAM CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 2020/2021 SEASON
Tedrin Blair Lindsay, Pianist, was raised in Rome, Italy and has been a professional accompanist since the age of ten. He performs well over one hundred recitals annually, boasting a huge repertoire of vocal and instrumental chamber works, with specialties in 20th century French and American music. Dr. Lindsay is presently on the opera faculty at the University of Kentucky, where he works as vocal coach and musical director. Kay’Mon Murrah, Tenor, a lyric tenor from Louisville, Kentucky, is known to bring warmth and brilliance to the opera stage. He has recently made his Kentucky Opera debut as Kasper in their production of Amahl and the Night Visitors and understudied the Armed Man role in their production of Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte. Key’Mon Murrah, Countertenor, herald for his wide range and “hot coal core o tone”, is a native to Louisville, Kentucky. Mr. Murrah has sung the role of Tolomeo from Handel’s Giulio Cesare and Asprano from Vivaldi’s Montezuma. Murrah was recently selected to sing a Masterclass with Joyce DiDonato at Carnegie Hall. 2020 Metropolitan Opera Council District Winner. This summer he will cover the role of the Magician from Handel’s Rinaldo with the Glimmerglass Festival. Baritone Kenneth Overton is a 2020 Grammy Award Nominated artist for the title role in The Naxos Label Recording of Richard Danielpour’s The Passion of Yeshua with the Buffalo Philharmonic. For his portrayal of Stephen Kumalo, in Kurt Weill’s Lost in The Stars, Baritone Kenneth Overton was nominated for the 2019 St. Louis Theatre Circle Award for “Outstanding Performance in an Opera”. Kenneth is enjoying singing leading roles at some of the world’s great opera houses such as, San Francisco Opera, L’Opera de Montreal, Palacio Bellas Artes, New York City Opera, Deutsche Oper Berlin, and the Royal Danish Opera as well as many regional opera houses in the U.S. including Opera Memphis, Nashville Opera, Utah Festival Opera, Opera Carolina, Toledo Opera, Opera Idaho, and Opera Grand Rapids. Kenneth is also the associate producer of the upcoming documentary, BLACK OPERA. For more information www.KennethOverton.com and www.BlackOperaFilm.com Chauncey Packer is an exciting American tenor. Mr. Packer is originally from southern Alabama where he received his undergraduate degree from University of Mobile. He relocated to New Orleans where he pursued a master’s degree in music from University of New Orleans and postgraduate studies at Louisiana State University in music and theater. Mr. Packer’s 2019 engagements include soloist in Mozart’s Requiem (Colour of Music Festival), featured soloist on a concert with SaintGeorge International Music Festival (Guadeloupe, FR), Sportin’ Life with New York Harlem’s Porgy and Bess at Teatro Regio (Torino, Italy), and in the role of Pinkerton in Madama Butterfly at Soo Theatre Project (Michigan). He will make his Metropolitan Opera debut in the roles of Robbins and Crabman and cover Sportin’ Life in their Porgy and Bess production 2019-20. Mr. Packer will join Maestro Alan Gilbert and NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchestra in concert of Porgy and Bess in the 2021, and will be featured in the Metropolitan Opera’s new productions Fire Shut Up in My Bones and the revival of Porgy and Bess. Phumzile Sojola, Tenor, has just finished performing four years as Ubaldo Piangi with Phantom of the Opera North American Tour and Peter in Porgy and Bess with Harrisburg Philharmonic Orchestra. Born and raised in South Africa, Phumzile Sojola made his Broadway debut as Peter in the Tony award winning Porgy and Bess and followed that as Lord Pinkelton in the original cast of Cinderella. 63
WORTHAM CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 2020/2021 SEASON On the operatic stage He has performed Herisson in Chabriers L’etoile and Popo in Troubled Island with New York City Opera. His other roles are Rodolfo in La Boheme Missouri Symphony Orchestra, Leader Lost in the Stars, Remendado in Carmen and Monostatos in the Magic Flute with Dayton Opera. From 2007 to 2017 he was one of the Tenors who sang in the show 3 Mo Tenors on tour and Off Broadway in NY. Phumzile also performed Jason Moran’s work songs at the 2015 La Biennale di Venezzia with Jason Moran. Peggy Stamps, Business Manager, is the founder and owner of The SquarePeg Group, Inc. (SPG), a NYC based talent management company. SPG represents a select group of actors who have appeared in feature film, television, and Broadway productions. Peggy has an extensive background in entertainment, including 15 years as the director of a regional Emmy Award winning Broadway Musical Review. Peggy founded SPG in 2010 and in 10 short years has developed a client base with recent credits including feature films The Photograph, How to Be Single, and Hidden Figures. Television credits include Wu Tang: An American Saga, Lincoln Rhyme: Hunt for the Bone Collector, FBI, Power III, For Life, Pose, and Nickelodeon’s Butterbean’s Café. Stage credits include Tina Turner: The Musical Broadway, Hamilton Broadway Tour, The Lion King Broadway Tour (6 clients), Waitress Broadway, Mean Girls Broadway, and Porgy and Bess Broadway Tour. In 2018, one of Peggy’s voiceover clients, age 12, was nominated for a Daytime Emmy for her leading voiceover work on a popular Nickelodeon series. In addition to managing, Peggy freelances as a stage director/choreographer. Peggy is a Purdue University engineering alumna. She worked in high tech corporate America for 25 years prior to launching SPG. Peggy is an active member of the Talent Managers Association (TMA). Nathaniel Thompson, Bass, has toured the United States, South America and Europe with performances of opera, spirituals, gospel and jazz. Most recently, Nathaniel made his debut as the Undertaker in Cincinnati Opera’s production of Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess. Tenor John Wesley Wright holds degrees from Maryville College and the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, where he earned the M.M. and D.M.A. in Performance Studies. A native of Rome, Georgia, he works as Associate Professor of Music at Salisbury University (Salisbury, MD), coordinating the voice and opera workshop programs. An active clinician and leader of workshops on voice production, interpretation, and African American song tradition, he also codirected the musical theatre program at the Maryland Summer Center of the Arts (2007-2014). He performs solo repertoire ranging from Bach to Broadway throughout the world, including as a member of the internationally celebrated American Spiritual Ensemble. Acclaim has also come as gold medalist of the American Traditions Vocal Competition 2000, with other top prizes from the National Federation of Music Clubs, the Metropolitan Opera National Council, and the International Schubert Competition. His doctoral dissertation (2014) studies musical borrowings underlying the role of the Celebrant in Bernstein’s Mass.
64