Written by John Pielmeier
Directed by Jeff Sprague
Performance Dates:
March 17 - April 2, 2022
Run time: 2h (including intermission)

Our next venture takes us on an exploration of faith and memory. Court-appointed psychiatrist Martha Livingstone is tasked with assessing the sanity of a novice accused of murdering her newborn. Livingstone’s suspicions deepen as the mother superior keeps the young nun from the doctor. Who killed the infant, and who fathered the tiny victim? The doctor’s questions force all three women to re-examine the meaning of faith and the power of love, leading to a dramatic, compelling climax.

To download the production postcard for Agnes of God to share with your friends, visit the Downloads page of our website and look under the Production Postcard heading. A PDF of the playbill is also available in the same location under the Production Playbills heading!  

About the Director

After a break of eight years, Agnes of God marks Jeff Sprague's second mainstage directorial effort at The Colonial Players. Previously, he directed 2014’s A Few Good Men (WATCH nominee for Best Play). In addition, Jeff directed Terrence McNally’s Botticelli for CP’s 2010 one act play festival. As an actor, Jeff has appeared in significantly more productions with CP, with credits including: The Babylon Line; The City of Conversation; The Liar (WATCH nominee for Best Featured Actor in a Play); Coyote on a Fence; 1776; Chapter Two; I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change; Over My Dead Body; Les Liaisons Dangereuses; Kiss Me, Kate; Kindertransport (WATCH winner for Best Cameo in a Play); and Jekyll and Hyde. Other area credits include: Blue/Orange, The Crucible, and Sight Unseen at Dignity Players of Annapolis and Thoroughly Modern Millie, Hairspray, and Anything Goes at ASGT. By day, Jeff is an attorney with the federal government. A gigantic “thank you” goes to CP’s Board for supporting our production throughout all the COVID-19 delays, and also to my staff for all their help in mounting a live performance in these unprecedented times. A special "thank you" to my producer, Paul Valleau, who has been the behind-the-scenes wizard throughout the process. Thanks also to Greg, Herb, and Mary W. for all your insights during the auditions and rehearsals. Of course, thank you to Laura, Mary, and Ashleigh for your dedication to Martha, Miriam, and Agnes. Last, but certainly not least, I want to thank my family for supporting my theatrical hobby for all these years, and my most loving appreciation goes out to my beautiful wife, Kathleen, adorable son, Ollie, and precocious Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Simon.

About the Playwright

John Leonard Pielmeier is an American writer and actor with a long list of credits in theater, movies, and television. He is best known for his acclaimed drama, Agnes of God, which opened in March, 1982 at the Music Box Theatre, where it ran for 599 performances. The Broadway production and national tour featured famous actresses such as Geraldine Page, Elizabeth Ashley, Amanda Plummer, Mercedes McCambridge, and Diahann Carroll. Pielmeier also wrote the screenplay for the movie version starring Anne Bancroft, Jane Fonda, and Meg Tilly. He wrote more than 25 movies and nonfiction works for television, winning many awards along the way. He is especially proud of his adaptation of The Pillars of the Earth, an eight-hour series based on Ken Follett’s bestselling novel that received three Golden Globe nominations, an Emmy nomination, and his fifth nomination for a Writers Guild Award. He also received an Emmy nomination for Hitler: The Rise of Evil. Pielmeier began his career as an actor, performing at regional theaters, including Baltimore’s Center Stage. But as someone who began writing plays as a small child, he was destined to curtail his acting career and concentrate on his first love of writing.

Director's Notes

I wI want you to feel a little uncomfortable watching this show; maybe more than a little uncomfortable. This is a heavy show and it deals with deeply personal issues; that much will become obvious. About all I can say is that it’s not a show about easy answers. The cast and crew have dedicated a tremendous amount of time and energy to bring this to life at a time of great uncertainty. Perhaps it’s fitting that this play was chosen for such a time. Listen to the lines and listen to the music. Look at the lights and see how they integrate with the set. Feel and appreciate the nuance in the performances. When you’ve finished with all that, and the curtain call is complete, talk about it with people. Ask what they thought. Debate it. Remember it. Challenge your brain. Come to your own conclusions. Thanks for coming."

- Jeff Sprague

The Cast

Ashleigh Bayer (Sister Agnes) - Ashleigh is delighted to be making her acting debut in the production of Agnes of God. She is incredibly thankful to director Jeff Sprague, assistant director Greg Jones Ellis, and play consultant Mary Watko for believing in her and casting her in this riveting and powerful play alongside a talented cast of ladies. She is grateful for the opportunity to play a "Courageous and Multi-dimensional" character and hopes you leave the theater with questions, while also feeling moved by the performances. "Lastly, I want to thank God for the talent he has given me and this moment I will never forget. I also want to thank my Aunt Nancy, my Mom, and my boyfriend, Brandon, for their unconditional support."

Laura Gayvert (Dr. Martha Livingstone) - Laura is incredibly thankful to Jeff Sprague and Greg Jones Ellis for casting her in this thought-provoking play along with this amazingly talented cast. Most recently at The Colonial Players, she played Lizzie in Maytag Virgin. Prior to that, she performed in The Trip to Bountiful, Moon Over Buffalo, Wonder of the World, Rocket Man, Calendar Girls, Frozen (NOT the Disney musical), and Casa Valentina, the last two earning her nominations for a Washington Area Theatre Community Honors (WATCH) award for Outstanding Featured Actress in a Play. Other local credits include Crimes of the Heart and Sordid Lives at Dignity Players and Seven Year Itch at Bowie Community Theatre. “Above all, I am thankful for the love and support of my husband, David, as well as family and friends who help me in so many ways, big and small."

Mary MacLeod (Mother Miriam Ruth) - Mary is beyond thrilled to be joining Laura Gayvert and Ashleigh Bayer in this production of Agnes of God. She has acted in many theater productions in the Washington, DC/Annapolis area over the years, but some of her favorite roles include the aging British rocker in VVVC Production’s Sex, Drugs, Rock & Roll, Sister Aloysius in Dignity Players’ production of Doubt, and, at Colonial Players, Hazel in The Children, Eileen Osbourne in The Cripple of Inishmaan, Terry Glimmer in Side Man (DC Metro Theater Arts 2015 List of Best Performances in Community Theater - Actress in a Play), Lady Boyle in Superior Donuts (WATCH Award Nominee-Cameo), Lettice Douffet in Lettice and Lovage, Nancy Shirley in Frozen (WATCH Award Nominee-Lead Actress), and Marjorie Taub in The Tale of the Allergist’s Wife. She thanks Jeff Sprague for casting her and, as always, thanks her husband, Alan, for his support.

The Production Staff

Terry Averill (Set Designer) Terry's happy to be designing again at The Colonial Players and working with such a talented cast and crew. He’s acted, directed, and designed numerous shows over the past 20 years. His favorite role was Arthur in Superior Donuts in 2014, but his biggest challenge was directing and designing 33 Variations in 2017. Terry enjoyed being CP’s president from 2010 to 2014. He has been an architect in Annapolis since 1995 and enjoys teaching architectural design and history at AACC. But designing for the stage is his passion. “It’s an honor to have the opportunity to work with Jeff Sprague again and the rest of the talented cast and crew of Agnes of God.”

Kaelynn Bedsworth (Costume Designer) Kaelynn has volunteered both on the stage and off in a variety of roles for more than a decade, from actress to go-button pusher to steampunk wig maker to Looney Tunes sound effect specialist to smushed banana cleaner. You may have seen her grace the stage in multiple productions of A Christmas Carol, The Secret Garden, 1776, Annie, Moonlight and Magnolias, and Little Women. Behind the scenes, she has produced, costume designed, sound designed, and scene painted for many shows over the past 12...or is it 13 now?...years. Kaelynn sends her love to her husband, Wes, who shares this crazy theater world with her on a daily basis.

Herb Elkin (Stage Manager) Herb has been an active Colonial Players member and volunteer for over 25 years. Having appeared onstage in several CP and other area productions, he now most enjoys stage-managing and relishes his continuing role in sustaining live theater on our stage. Recent CP credits include Maytag Virgin (2021), The Children (2020), Toward Zero (2019), Quartet (2018), 33 Variations (2017), Good People (2016), Side Man (2015), Rocket Man (2014), Coyote on a Fence (2014), Trying (2013), and Going to St. Ives (2012)...which received a regional WATCH award as Outstanding Play. He thanks CP's many volunteers and supporters who make everything possible, worthwhile...and enjoyable!

Greg Jones Ellis (Assistant Director) Greg is delighted to have the opportunity to assist Jeff and his talented cast, crew, designers, and consultants. Greg’s CP credits began with his appearance in 1978’s Jacques Brel Is Alive and Well and then skipped to 2015’s Ernest in Love. After these musicals, he hung up his dancing shoes to appear in 33 Variations as Beethoven and The Children as Robin. Other local musical appearances include Brigadoon (Compass Rose), 1776 and Sister Act (Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre), Titanic (Theatre Lab), Sweeney Todd (Opera AACC) and Oliver! (Classic Theatre of Maryland). He has directed staged readings at Virginia’s North Street Playhouse, including Neil Simon’s God’s Favorite, Noel Coward’s Suite in Two Keys, and Donald Margulies’s Dinner with Friends. He is a produced playwright whose award-winning comedy/drama All Save One premiered at the Washington Stage Guild. He has directed readings of his two most recent scripts at the Kennedy Center (live), the Dramatists Guild (Zoom) and the Alliance of Los Angeles Playwrights (Zoom). “Here’s to live theater!”

Eric Hufford (Lighting Designer) Eric is happy to come back to the theater and do something new this time! Last time he was on stage, Eric was the Ghost of Christmas Present in A Christmas Carol. Favorite roles include Jerry in The Full Monty and Thomas Jefferson in 1776. Backstage Eric has done numerous special effects and projections for various shows. He also directed Lucky Stiff at The Colonial Players in 2018.

Robin Schwartz (Sound Designer, Props Designer, Set Dressing) Robin is delighted to be a part of the team for this production. After graduating from Goucher College with a BA in Theatre, she directed and produced plays at Red Branch Theatre Company and Drama Learning Center. Robin recently directed Love, Loss, and What I Wore for Colonial Players last summer and produced The Revolutionists in fall 2021. She was last seen on the CP stage as Ruth Hoch in Book of Days. Favorite credits include Dawn in The Universal Language (Outstanding Performance from the Maryland Community Theatre Festival), Thea Elvsted in Hedda Gabler, and Joan Dellamond in The Babylon Line. "So much gratitude to the whole CP team for the opportunity to create theater with some truly amazing people."

Paul Valleau (Producer) Paul is so proud of this team. It has been such a reward to support this production of Agnes of God. He has been involved in many productions in the Baltimore/ Annapolis area over the past decade, allowing him the opportunity to work with some of the best talent our area has to offer, including everyone in this production. Some of his favorite roles include Michal Katurian, The Pillowman (Vagabond Players), Lt. Kaffee, A Few Good Men (Colonial Players), Leo Bloom, The Producers, and Robert, Don’t Dress for Dinner (The Des Moines Playhouse). Other productions include, at Colonial Players, Book of Days, 33 Variations, In the Next Room, Morning’s at Seven (WATCH nomination for Best Actor). Productions at The Des Moines Playhouse include The Wizard of Oz, Next Fall, Reasons to Be Pretty, and Three Changes. Paul has also directed The Crucible and Talk Radio at Vagabond Players and Sex, Drugs, Rock & Roll at Colonial Players. “Congratulations to Jeff, Greg, the staff, and this tremendous ensemble.”

Written by Ron Paolillo
Directed by Joe Thompson
Performance Dates:
February 17 - March 6, 2022
Run time: 2h 30m
(including intermission)

From London we head north to Scotland and meet the man behind Peter Pan. This heartwarming, fictionalized story follows author James Barrie and the forces that drove the creation of his many beloved characters. Haunted by the tragic loss of his older brother, James slowly begins to confront his family’s tragic past through storytelling, an unexpected friendship, and the dream of finding Neverland.

To download the production postcard for The Lost Boy to share with your friends, visit the Downloads page of our website and look under the Production Postcard heading. A PDF of the playbill is also available in the same location under the Production Playbills heading! 

About the Director

Joe Thompson became involved in Annapolis theater in 1967 when Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre moved to its current location. His first role was as a page in their production of Hamlet. His first show at The Colonial Players was Carousel, where he was a member of the ensemble. Over the years he has been fortunate to be given the opportunity by CP to act, direct, design sound, play guitar, serve on the Board of Directors, and have some of his original work produced. Among the plays he has directed at CP are Annie, Company, The Battle of Shallowford, A Christmas Carol, and Dearly Departed. His most recent onstage appearances include 1776 and The Diviners. Joe has also worked with Children’s Theater of Annapolis, where he directed an award-winning production of Beauty and the Beast, The Canterville Ghost, and an evening of his original one-act plays entitled Say What. His original childrens music from CPs 1999 - 2002 productions of his Cabaret for Kids is available on his website: Imaginesongs.com.

About the Playwright

Ronald Gabriel Paolillo was an American actor, director, producer, playwright, and teacher who, despite a long career in television and movies, was best known for his portrayal of Arnold Horshack in the 1970s television series Welcome Back, Kotter. He said later in life that he regretted his early success as the nerdy high school student with the wheezy laugh that was described as sounding like a hyena because it typecast him and damaged his career. The Lost Boy, his first play, premiered in 2005, just seven years before his death. Despite his dissatisfaction with being typecast in Welcome Back, Kotter, Paolillo had a wealth of experiences and credits off-Broadway and in regional theaters, including performing onstage as George in Who’s Afraid of Virginia Wolff?, Mozart in Amadeus, and Arthur in Camelot. He appeared in numerous television shows, including a stint as himself in the popular sitcom Ellen with Ellen DeGeneres. Paolillo was also a director of plays and an author-writer who illustrated the two books he wrote for children.

Director's Notes

I was a lost boy myself when I was younger. And the theater was my Neverland. It accepted me, as it had accepted many lost boys and girls before me, into its world of wonder and craziness. It gave me a home, a family, adventure, and magic. The magic to transform pain into creativity. The magic to bring something new into existence. In other words - the magic of imagination, the magic of the arts. It also taught me that magic requires the combined energies of a lot of people, all of them contributing their own special talents, knowledge, experience, and imagination. And that includes you, the audience. We designed this show to take advantage of your imagination, as much as ours.

I hope you will take a moment to read the program and appreciate all the people who contributed to the magic of this show. But just a mention in the program does not convey the incredible hard work (yes, magic takes hard work) that the designers and technicians contributed. In our initial discussions, our set designer Edd hit upon the idea of integrating lights into the set pieces. Coordinating with him, the lighting designer John and his assistant Bill worked countless late hours creating the hardware that would make that happen. Then Jim, Bob, Ted, and Ken had to build the set pieces you see tonight. Our prop designer Connie researched and gathered numerous items for the production, only to have me say that we might pantomime them instead. I'm fortunate she didn't kill me. Linda, our costume designer and a new recruit to this theater, had to make sense of a world that was dull one moment and bursting with color the next, including costumes for our hard-working fairies - Abby, Emma, and Katia - who play multiple roles and transform the stage. Our sound designer Martin crafted the soundscape and worked with me as we devised an original score, tactfully informing his father which of my instrumentals would or would not make the cut. Not an enviable task, I'm sure.

I sometimes referred to my assistant director, Barb, as my left brain, because besides having a keen eye for detail, she kept me organized and on track. When our stage manager, Danny, was forced by family tragedy to resign at the eleventh hour, Beth miraculously appeared and took over the thankless job. Her acute sensibilities and experience at this theater were a godsend in our time of need. We were very fortunate in finding BettyAnne, our accent coach, who has a resume that would blow your mind. She spent countless hours teaching the cast multilayered vocal techniques that were individually tailored for their roles.

Jaime, a certified and experienced fight instructor, long-time friend (and now professional wrestler) choreographed the sword fight between Hook and Peter with much humor and patience. Darice, the theater's artistic director, helped me navigate the process and deal with the many stresses that accompany a show during the time of Covid and snow. Ernie, our producer and the theater's production director, helped me with the many, many technical details that had to come together for the show. I want to point out the extra stress load and work our families deal with when we're in any theatrical production, let alone one during the time of covid. Thanks, Suz.

Because of covid, our cast had to do all their rehearsing in masks, only to turn around and find out that our opening night had been delayed for over a month while the Board of Directors worked overtime trying to reconfigure the spring schedule. And lastly, I would be remiss without mentioning my play consultant Joan and my creative consultant Eric, both of whom sat through many rehearsals and brought me many great ideas and guidance. These are just some of the volunteers who, along with our wonderfully talented actors, tech crew, ushers, box office, board members, and others, contributed to what I hope will be a night of enchantment and inspiration. I believe in magic. And I believe in the many people that make magic happen."

- JOE THOMPSON

The Cast

Shannon Benil (Margaret Barrie) - Shannon is ecstatic to be back on stage for the first time since the COVID hiatus. She had a blast last spring directing the musical I Love You Because, tried her hand at designing lights for The Revolutionists in the fall, and is currently serving as Treasurer on the Board of Colonial Players, but nothing makes her happier than performing ON stage at this theater! In her 28 years of performing here, she has had many favorite roles including Chris in Rumors; Cora in Calendar Girls; the Inspector in Clue: The Musical; and various roles in the musical I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change. Much love to her wife, Marcy, who takes on all the parental duties of their 9-year-old son, Nilsson, while she is in rehearsals and shows!

Rick Estberg (James Barrie) - Rick is honored to be playing this role in his eighth show with The Colonial Players, the second where Joe T. was directing. Most recently, he appeared in By the Way, Meet Vera Stark. Some of his previous favorite roles include Max in Superior Donuts, John in Calendar Girls, and Luigi Gaudi in Lucky Stiff. He has also appeared in a dozen shows with the Pasadena Theatre Company, most recently as The Old Man in A Christmas Story. He thanks his family for their decade-long support and dedicates his performance to his son Charlie who, like Davey in this story, left this world far too soon.

Megan Henderson (Mary Barrie / Peter’s Mother / Tinker Bell) - Megan is thrilled to be back with CP after stage managing Love, Loss, and What I Wore and designing props for The Revolutionists. She has worked professionally as a teaching artist, performer, director, stage manager, choreographer, and wardrobe assistant in the Baltimore/D.C. area for over 10 years. She has worked with Toby’s Dinner Theatre, Signature Theatre, Ford’s Theatre, Columbia Center for Theatrical Arts, Drama Learning Center, and Red Branch Theatre Company, as well as many community theaters in the area. Professional acting credits include: Maurice in Madagascar, Gilda in The Happy Elf, Thea in Spring Awakening, Princess Léonide u/s in Triumph of Love (Red Branch Theatre Company). Other roles include Jo March in Little Women and Woman 1 in Edges. Megan received her BFA in Musical Theatre from Seton Hill University. Many thanks to the whole Lost Boy team!

Edd Miller (Deacon / The OldCrow / Hook / Gerald du Maurier / Set Designer) - Edd has a long history with The Colonial Players as a director, actor, set designer, and utility volunteer. This year he has designed the sets for By The Way, Meet Vera Stark and Maytag Virgin. He was nominated for a WATCH award for the set for Chapter Two. Other set designs include Coyote on a Fence, Going To St. Ives, and On Golden Pond. As a director, his productions include I Never Sang For My Father (Ruby Griffith Award), Coyote On a Fence (WATCH nomination), Going To St. Ives (WATCH award), Diviners, Good People, and many more. In The Lost Boy Edd gets to play four different roles in one play. Over the years he has been seen at The Colonial Players in Othello, Last Of The Red Hot Lovers, Veronica’s Room, The Cripple Of Inishmaan, A Moon for the Misbegotten, and quite a few more. All in all CP has given him a home away from home and introduced him to his late wife, Dolores Fahey Miller. Edd is grateful for the opportunity to play in the CP sandbox for over 50 years. 

Emma Miller (Ensemble) - Emma is enjoying being back on the CP stage having performed in two productions of A Christmas Carol (Fanny in 2016 and the Ghost of Christmas Past in 2018), and having worked as stage crew for The Merry Wives of Windsor and Generations in 2019. She was most recently seen as Claudia Herdman in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Emma is a freshman at Broadneck High School and enjoys playing violin in the school orchestra and singing in the chorus. She also plays ukulele, piano, and guitar and sings and plays bass guitar in various rock bands with Priddy Music Academy.

Leslie Miller (Maureen O’Rourke / Merlinda / Wendy Darling) - Lesley is happy to be back on the CP stage, having most recently been seen as Reverend Hopkins in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. She has performed many times at The Colonial Players (including eight times in productions of A Christmas Carol), and with other groups in the area, including 2nd Star Productions, Bowie Community Theatre, Theater 11, and Dignity Players. When she is not performing on a theater stage, she can often be seen singing with local band Adult Supervision (part of the Priddy Music Academy). She dedicates her performance to the memory of her grandmother, Hilly (who she hopes is not turning in her grave listening to her Irish accent!), and to her mum and biggest fan, Susan Stent, who has most likely traveled the farthest to come and see this show! Thanks to all involved in the production, hope you enjoy it!

Chase Nester (Davey Barrie / Peter Pan) - Chase is 17 years old and is thrilled to be a part of this show as Davey and Peter Pan! This is his first performance with The Colonial Players, but he has been acting for his entire life, with his first role as baby Jesus in his church's Christmas pageant at three weeks old. More recently, he appeared as Officer Lockstock in Talent Machine’s production of Urinetown and as Mr. Bingley in Crofton High’s production of Pride and Prejudice. In his free time, you’ll find him playing guitar and yelling at his friends about which Star Wars movie is the best. He would like to thank his parents for letting him take the car to rehearsals and his elementary school babysitter Ms. Gerry for showing him her VHS tape of Peter Pan when he was five and forever changing his life. He hopes you enjoy the show, although he does not advise trying to fly in real life.

Katia Rini (Young Davey / Ursula / Ensemble / Peter Pan u/s) - This is Katia’s debut performance for The Colonial Players. She is excited to perform and has had a lot of fun both onstage and offstage. Some of her other shows outside of CP include Susie Bones/ Harry/Others in Puffs, Edna in Bye Bye Birdie, Stephanie in Adventures of a Comic Book Artist, and Hermia in A Midsummer Night's Dream. She would like to thank her mother, brother, and Oma for supporting her every step of the way, and her cats Gibby, Velma, and Coco for being so strange but adorable. She thanks Director Joe Thompson, Ernie Morton, and Barbara Kalafos for allowing her to grow as an actress and learn new things. She would also like to thank the person that is reading this program for coming to this show and showing love for The Colonial Players.

Scott Sanders (Ned / Sean O'Rourke) - Scott is excited about his first production with The Colonial Players. Previously he performed locally with Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre, 2nd Star Productions, and Greenbelt Arts Center. He has additionally performed with multiple theaters in Baltimore. When not appearing onstage Scott enjoys his day job in cyber security as well as reading and playing video games in his spare time. He thanks his wife for her support and their dog’s understanding with him being gone multiple evenings a week. Scott is excited to play a loud boisterous Irishman, which is directly opposite to his normal life being a loud, boisterous man of Irish descent. “There is a very big difference, no type casting here. Nope, none…I’ve clearly said too much.” 

Abigail Traverson (Young James / Liza / Hana Bell / Ensemble) - This is Abigail’s debut performance with The Colonial Players, and she is thrilled to be in a show again after the pandemic. Abigail has studied theater at Anne Arundel Community College and worked with their theater company in designing and performing a haunted theater tour. She has also performed as The Fiddler in Fiddler on the Roof and as a dancer in The King and I with the Saint Philomena Thespians in Ellicott City.

The Production Staff

Barbara Kalafos (Assistant Director) Barbara is excited to try her hand directing with long-time friend and mentor, Joe Thompson. She has worked in most aspects of theater over the last 10 years, following her daughter’s interest from elementary school to college. She has served on the board of directors of both Severna Park Middle School and Severna Park High School boosters organizations. Barbara is amazed at the collaborative environment and the very talented cast. She is thankful to her family for their love, support, and encouragement.

Linda Ridge (Costume Designer) Although this is Linda’s first experience with costume designing at The Colonial Players, she is no stranger to costuming. She has spent the last eight years costuming for the Annapolis Area Christian High School’s three to four productions a year. She has worked in other community theaters, costuming with Laurel Mill and The Salem Players. Linda is a full-time RN with the oncology department at The University of Maryland. She is excited about the opportunity to help Joe Thompson take you through the story of the creation of Peter Pan. She would like to thank her husband, Ed, and daughter, Erica, for their love and support so she can have such fun!!

Ernie Morton (Co-Producer) Ernie has been stage manager or lighting designer for 15 shows at The Colonial Players and Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre, but this is his first foray as a producer. He also is currently serving as Production Director at CP as well as the Operations Team Safety Manager. He wants to thank Joe Thompson for allowing him to come along on this magical journey. Ernie has also been either stage manager or crew for The Revolutionists; By the Way, Meet Vera Stark; and A Christmas Carol this season and he wants his family not to worry; he’s being well treated and he’ll be home soon.

John Purnell (Lighting Designer) John is a veteran lighting designer in The Colonial Players stable. The Lost Boy is his ninth show in the past four years. Of note are A New Brain (WATCH nominated); Quartet; Maytag Virgin; and Love, Loss, and What I Wore. Outside CP, John lit Mamma Mia! and three other shows for ASGT. Last summer John taught CP’s five week lighting design class and serves as CP’s lighting consultant. He has also appeared on CP’s stage in Rumors, Clue: The Musical, and If Men Played Cards as Women Do. In the “real world” John owns and operates Inspired Data Solutions, works as the CIO for St. Anne's Church, and was recently appointed to the Annapolis Transportation Board. By stark contrast, theater is John’s “Neverland” where the boy doesn’t have to grow up. Claire, John’s wife of 30 years, must be Tinker Bell because he is so grateful for her magical support of his ongoing childishness.

Constance Robinson (Properties Designer / Set Decorator) Since 2003 Connie has volunteered as a public relations consultant, graphic designer, box office assistant, properties designer, and set decorator for The Colonial Players. She serves on the current Marketing Committee, and has collected props or decorated sets for over TWENTY-FIVE productions at The Colonial Players and other local theaters. She is proud to have received three WATCH nominations for properties designing. Connie enjoys her volunteer hours because of the friendly, dedicated people she works with. She also thanks her husband, John, for his continued assistance fixing or creating props. Connie is also grateful to friends for their support and loaning their household items for props. It is nice to be back with CP friends after over a year of pandemic restrictions. Now that we can feel safer with most everyone vaccinated, Connie attendied rehearsals and helped backstage. She commented that it is fun to be working again with Director Joe Thompson, whose imagination keeps the design team on our toes!

Beth Terranova (Stage Manager) Beth has pursued her theater interest onstage and backstage for nearly 50 years in four states and two countries. An experienced actor and director, she also has numerous backstage credits including stage manager, costume designer, set designer, and producer. Beth is grateful for the stage fairies who are making managing The Lost Boy a picnic compared to her last stage management gig: Lucky Stiff - which had one of the craziest backstages she ever worked. Other stage management credits include Superior Donuts, Kindertransport, Romantic Comedy, Eleanor, The Diary of Anne Frank, and Lips Together, Teeth Apart for Annapolis theaters, and Art, The Last Night of Ballyhoo, Picasso at the Lapin Agile, and Greetings for Florida theaters. Most recently Beth served as Play Consultant and Costume Designer for CP’s 2021 production of A Christmas Carol. She was last seen onstage as Scottish immigrant Williamina Fleming in Silent Sky, so she has great empathy for those Lost Boy cast members who have had to learn a Scottish accent. Happily retired, these days you might catch Beth in colonial garb leading historic and ghost tours around Annapolis…when she isn’t doing “things” for the theater.

Martin Thompson (Sound Designer) Marty’s sound design credits include: Mr. Marmalade, Two Rooms, and Proof with Weekday Players; All the Rabbits with Odd Act Theatre Group; Company with The Colonial Players; Play it Again, Sam with T3. Assistant sound designed Rent at the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center.

Dona Weingarten (Co-Producer) Once a lighting designer and technician for Montgomery Players, Silver Spring Stage, and Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre, Dona taught grades 6-12 at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School for 26 years. After retiring from teaching, Dona came to The Colonial Players as assistant to the director and lighting technician for Colonial’s Spitfire Grill. Then for two years she managed submissions to CP’s Promising Playwright Contest, took photos for the summer One Act Play productions, and produced The White Rose. She is happy to be working with the gifted production staff and cast of The Lost Boy.

Play and Lyrics by Richard Wade
Music by Richard Gessner
Directed by Sarah Wade
Produced by Tim Brown
Performance dates:
December 2 - 12, 2021
Run time: 80m
(no intermission)

Venture with us to a cold December in London, where we witness Ebenezer Scrooge’s realization of the true meaning of Christmas. Written for the Players in 1981 by Richard Wade and Dick Gessner, Colonial Players is delighted to bring this beloved adaptation of the Dickens classic back to the stage. Warm your heart to the music, characters, and story of Scrooge’s redemption through the visits of the Ghosts of his Christmases Past, Present, and Future. Travel with him through time and the streets of the London of 170 years ago to discover the true meaning of Christmas and rekindle your holiday spirit. This year’s production will be directed by Richard’s daughter, Sarah, who has grown up with this phenomenally popular gift to the community.

To download the production postcard for A Christmas Carol to share with your friends, visit the Downloads page of our website and look under the Production Postcard heading. A PDF of the playbill is also available in the same location under the Production Playbills heading! 

About the Director

Sarah Wade is extremely pleased to be making her directorial debut with A Christmas Carol. Having first appeared on the CP stage in the 2000 production as the Turkey Boy at the age of 10, she has performed in ACC 11 times, playing Martha Cratchit, Belle (twice), the Charwoman (twice), and ensemble roles. She was most recently seen on stage in Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, winning a Washington Area Theater Community Honors (WATCH) acting award for her performance as Honey. Before that, she performed as Gabriella in Boeing, Boeing; Cecily Cardew in Ernest in Love (WATCH nominated); Isabelle/Sabine in The Liar (WATCH nominated); Catherine Donohue in These Shining Lives; Star-to-Be in Annie; Jessica in Communicating Doors; and Kitty in Taking Steps. She has also served as sound designer for Sex with Strangers, Calendar Girls, Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike, Side Man, and Watch on the Rhine. She would like to offer some thanks. “To those who have mentored me, Lois and Steve, thank you for all you have taught me and your patience in doing so. To Debbie, for being the best play consultant I could have asked for. To Eric, for doing this show and for being supportive in those secret moments when I don't know what I'm doing. To Lindsay, I love you, thank you for cleaning up after my messes. To my father, as this torch is passed, thank you for supporting me, believing in me, and encouraging me. I hope you like it."

About the Adapter/Lyricist

Richard (Rick) Wade has been a member of The Colonial Players for more than 50 years, directing more than two dozen productions, occasionally acting, and serving as the theater’s president and many years on its board. He has directed for numerous other professional, college, community, and dinner theaters in the BaltimoreWashington area. He has written a dozen other plays and musicals and is a member of the Dramatists Guild. His adaptation and lyrics for A Christmas Carol with music composed by Dick Gessner, was written expressly for CP in 1981 and has been performed more than 600 times on the East Street stage. Rick and his wife, Jennifer, live in Arnold. They are particularly proud of their daughter, Sarah, and her husband, Eric Hufford, who perform and direct at Colonial Players and their son, Andrew, wife Molly, and new grandson, Henry.

About the Composer

Dick Gessner collaborated with Rick Wade to write the music for A Christmas Carol and also wrote music for Wade’s adaptations of children’s musicals Pinocchio, Puss ‘n Boots, Rumpelstiltskin, and Treasure Island. A popular entertainer in the Annapolis area for many years, Gessner is now retired and living in Florida. He served as musical director for many productions in Maryland, including Carousel, Fiddler on the Roof, and My Fair Lady at Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre and Little Mary Sunshine; The Apple Tree; You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown; The Contrast; and Carnival at Colonial Players. Gessner died August 30, 2019, at the age of 90, but his spirit lives on in the wonderful music he wrote for A Christmas Carol.

About the Choreographer

Lindsay Zetter returns for her second production of A Christmas Carol, and her fourth musical with The Colonial Players, having also served as choreographer for Ernest in Love and Lucky Stiff. Classically trained in ballet since age three, she loved choreographing as soon as she knew the steps. Since receiving a degree in arts management from Indiana University, she has been associate artistic director of Academy Ballet School since 2011 and is the dance director at The Key School. She has staged and choreographed ballet productions of Snow White, Alice in Wonderland, Peter Pan, The Wizard of Oz, Beauty and the Beast, Swan Lake, and Sleeping Beauty. Other productions include Once Upon a Mattress, Cats, Grease, Chicago, The Addams Family, and Annapolis Opera’s Faust. She is thrilled to be working with Sarah Wade (one of her oldest friends) and wishes her the best on her directorial debut.  

About the Music Director

Trevor Greenfield is excited to return to The Colonial Players this Christmas season! A local performer and music director since 2015,Trevor's recent credits include lead role Joe Gillis in Moonlight Troupers’ Sunset Boulevard, and the director for Children’s Theatre of Annapolis’ production of The Hobbit. Trevor teaches K-5 general music for AACPS as well as private piano lessons. He would like to thank his wife and son, Katrina and Jackson, for their love and support and the entire CP team for their talent, dedication, and hard work to pull this off. “Merry Christmas to all!”

Director's Notes

How time flies. When I look back on my first year directing this show in 2018, it's astounding to me now what I felt like I achieved then and how much I perhaps took for granted. The world looks so very different now. This show, in fact, looks so very different now. Yet, I remain astounded by what my vibrant cast and amazing team have been able to achieve - this year, I won't be taking that for granted. To be honest, I didn't know what this show was going to look like. You'd think I'd have had a better idea, given that I got an extra year to think about it, but it was truthfully challenging to re-envision a show that I knew only in one form. I'm so, so proud of my cast and am humbled and grateful for all the gifts my design team have given me - their support being first and foremost. What does A Christmas Carol say to us in 2021? What message can we take away? Of course, Dickens couldn't envision a world full of divisive discourse, a pandemic, a rapidly changing world. Or could he? London was no stranger to the hardships of disease. England's political discourse and role on the world's stage were a divisive topic, and the world was changing rapidly during the 19th century. An enduring message, the one at the heart of Dickens’ story, remains - think upon how you treat your fellow humans and how that might weigh upon your soul. Strive to live with a joyous and optimistic spirit. Live well. "If every human mind could look on human-kind, as a very special bounty which can't be bought or sold..."

- SARAH WADE

The Cast

Kaelynn Bedsworth (Belle / Mrs. Cratchit / Charwoman) - Kaelynn is happy to be treading the boards once more in one of her favorite shows of all time. You may have seen her as Mrs. Cratchit or Belle/Fred's Wife in past productions of A Christmas Carol. A few additional favorite CP stage credits include The Secret Garden (Alice), Annie (Grace Farrell), 1776 (Martha Jefferson), Little Women (Meg), and Moonlight and Magnolias (Miss Poppenghul). Behind the scenes, she has produced, costume designed, sound designed, scene painted, and seam sewed for many a CP show Kaelynn sends love to her husband and family, especially her nieces Adeline and Hannah, and would like to dedicate this performance to the memory of her dear friend and colleague Carrie, who always reminded her every day that "we're as blessed as anyone alive."

Ian Brown (Tim Cratchit / Turkey Boy / Scrooge as a Boy) - Ian is a 6th grader at Bates Middle School in the Performance and Visual Arts Program (Creative Writing and Drama). He is 12 years old and enjoys baseball, go-karting, and hanging out with his neighborhood friends. This is his third performance at The Colonial Players. He played the role of young Ethan in the City of Conversation in 2017 and Ollie Herdman in the 2019 performance of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Ian is very excited to be a part of this wonderful cast and would like to thank his family, his fellow performers, and the crew for inspiration and support.

Dianne Hood (Ghost of Christmas Past) - Dianne first walked in the doors of this theater and onto the stage in 1976 as Jane Hopcroft in Absurd Person Singular. Since then, she has performed in more than 20 Colonial Players productions. Her most recent roles here include Arronetta Gibbs in Morning’s at Seven, Miss Prism in Ernest in Love, Charlotte Hay in Moon over Buffalo, and Edith in Jake's Women. In addition, she has appeared on several stages in Baltimore and on the Maryland Eastern Shore.

Duncan Hood (Ghost of Jacob Marley / Mr. Fezziwig / Undertaker's Man) - “It's good to be back at The Colonial Players.” Duncan was last seen as Dr. Chausible in Ernest in Love at CP. Over the past 20 years, he has performed roles here as Carl in Morning’s at Seven, George in Moon over Buffalo, Scrooge in A Christmas Carol, The Playwright in Enter the Guardsman, VanSweiten in Amadeus, Jethro Crouch in Sly Fox, Michael in Dancing at Lughnasa, The Narrator in Blood Brothers, Inspector Rough in Angel Street, and Psuedolus in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. Duncan has been an international sailing instructor trainer for the American Sailing Association for 36 years and holds a 100 ton USCG Master’s license. He is dedicating these performances to his grandkids: Joan, Graham, and Cameron.

Eric Hufford (Ghost of Christmas Present / Gentleman) - Eric is happy to to reprise his role of Ghost of Christmas Present in A Christmas Carol at The Colonial Players. It's been a while since he was last on stage as he has taken mostly to backstage technical support for many productions. Favorite roles include Jerry in The Full Monty and Thomas Jefferson in 1776. Eric would like to dedicate this performance to the amazingly talented and ever humble Benjamin Carr. On a completely unrelated note, don't make bets in Fantasy Football.

Alexandra Kuebler (Belinda Cratchit / Fred’s Wife / Fanny) - This is Alexandra's first production with The Colonial Players and she is ecstatic about the opportunity to spread some Christmas cheer! Recently, Alex has had the pleasure to perform as Luisa in The Fantasticks, Jo in Little Women, and Katherine in Taming of the Shrew. Outside the theatre, Alex enjoys reading John Steinbeck, Rick Riordan, and most things in between. She is very grateful to her mom and dad for constantly supporting her in her acting endeavors and her sisters for loving her despite the non-stop singing coming from Alex's room. She thanks God for blessing her with this community that has been so warm and welcoming. She hopes you have a very Merry Christmas and enjoy the show! ZAC.

Zach Priddy (Peter Cratchit / Dick Wilkins / Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come) - Zach is delighted to be making his theatre debut in The Colonial Players rendition of A Christmas Carol. He is very excited to begin his theatre career with this wonderful show and hopes to do many more shows in the future. When he is not acting he can be seen singing and playing his guitar, writing, spending time with his friends and family, and playing in three bands at the Priddy Music Academy. Catch him at one of his upcoming gigs! Zach would like to thank Sarah Wade for her support and kindness, the hard working crew who make the magic happen, and his fellow castmates for friendships that will last a lifetime. He would also like to give a huge shout out to his parents, who took time out of their very busy schedules to take him to rehearsals and support him every step of the way. Zach had so much fun being a part of this and hopes you "Keep Christmas in your heart every DAY."

Matthew Rigby (Fred / Young Scrooge) - This is Matt's first production with The Colonial Players, and he is very excited to bring Christmas cheer to Annapolis! Matt performed in several musicals in high school and college, including Anything Goes and Guys and Dolls. He has loved working with the cast and crew and can't wait for future shows with CP. Matt would like to thank his friends and family for their support. He's just getting started!

Mia Rinehart (Martha Cratchit / Fred's Party Guest) - Mia is a 15-year-old tenth grader in the IB Program at Annapolis High School. She is thrilled to make her debut on the The Colonial Players stage after performing last spring as Elsa in the Children’s Theatre of Annapolis production of Frozen Jr. When not performing, Mia can be found participating in many clubs at school, traveling to see live music, or listening to Phoebe Bridgers. Mia is honored to have the opportunity to be a part of this iconic show and thanks this incredible cast and creative staff for the amazing experience. Mia thanks her family, specifically her mother, for keeping theatre a priority in her life. She also sends her thanks to her vocal coach, Alyssa Cox, for her amazing support and encouragement. Enjoy the show! 

Reed Sigmon (Bob Cratchit) - Reed is thankful to return to The Colonial Players stage and honored to be part of this long-standing Annapolis tradition! He most recently appeared with CP as Harry Witherspoon in the 2018 production of Lucky Stiff (WATCH Nomination. Lead Actor in a Musical / Outstanding Musical nomination). He could also be seen as Snoopy in 2nd Star Productions' 2020 showing of You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown. Since 2018, Reed has performed professionally with the Maryland Renaissance Festival’s Company of the Rose, closing their 2021 season as Master Thomas Seymour (brother to eventual Queen, Jane Seymour). In his free time, Reed runs a website dedicated to collecting vintage children’s books – you can follow his work at wereedbooks.com. He thanks his loved ones for their unwavering support and especially thanks his wife for putting up with his constant singing of Christmas songs over the last month and a half. As 2021 comes to a close, Reed would like to wish everyone the happiest of holidays and a joyful 2022!”

Gene Valendo (Ebenezer Scrooge) - Gene is delighted to return to The Colonial Players stage where he previously appeared in 1776 (2013) and in Lucky Stiff (2018). His most recent stage appearances were prior to the pandemic in Moonlight and Magnolias (Ben Hecht, Laurel Mill Playhouse, early 2020) and in the Menken/Ahrens version of A Christmas Carol: The Musical (Ebenezer Scrooge, 2nd Star Productions, 2019). Other than Scrooge (of course), his favorite roles include Juror #8 (Twelve Angry Men), Sir Joseph Porter (HMS Pinafore), and Alexander Molokov (Chess). He wishes to thank Sarah for giving him the opportunity to be part of this wonderful Annapolis tradition.

The Production Staff

Tim Brown (Producer) Tim was involved in the last two productions of A Christmas Carol - as stage manager in 2016 and as co-producer in 2018. He also has produced and participated as lighting assistant in several other shows. He is delighted to be involved once again in such a heart-warming production that is so much a part of The Colonial Players and Annapolis. He sends thanks to all the wonderful people at this, his favorite theatre, who are so welcoming and fun to work with.

Susan Baum (Properties Designer) This is the second show at The Colonial Players for Susan and she is thrilled to be part of the team for A Christmas Carol. She assisted with the props for The Revolutionists. Susan has been actively involved with theatre in Annapolis for many years, having previously worked with Children's Theatre of Annapolis and Compass Rose Theater. Enjoy the show!

Wes Bedsworth (Sound Designer / Recording Engineer) Wes has been volunteering with The Players since early 2007 when he was a sound technician for Moon Over Buffalo. He's gone on to sound design many other shows, light design one, program lights for a bunch, create an Arduino-controlled illuminated grand piano for another, and provide technical consultation on more shows than he can count. Wes currently serves as Operations Director on the Board, where his responsibilities vary from plumber to electrician to network administrator to HVAC technician to locksmith to general handyman, depending on what broke this time. He also serves as Technical Director on the Production Team, and is excited to be part of the "Stream Team" -- the trio of volunteers who have worked closely (while bickering like brothers) to develop live stream capability for The Players. By day, Wes works for Cardinal Engineering, proudly supporting the United States Navy's COLUMBIA Class submarine program, where he was recently recognized as employee of the year. Wes sends his love to his wife, Kaelynn; his parents; sister Susan; and brother-in-law, Jon. Abby - always in my heart.

Ernie Morton (Stage Manager) Ernie has been stage manager or lighting designer for 15 shows at The Colonial Players and Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre.

Beth Terranova (Costume Designer) Beth has been designing costumes for community theatres for over 25 years. On the The Colonial Players stage her previous costume designs were seen in Maytag Virgin, A Christmas Carol (2018), Nine (WATCH nomination), A Few Good Men, These Shining Lives, Coyote on a Fence, Going to St. Ives (WATCH nomination), Cinderella Waltz (WATCH nomination), Lettice and Lovage, The Diviners, The Lion in Winter, The Philadelphia Story, Hauptmann, and Moon Over Buffalo. In Maryland she has also designed costumes for 2nd Star (Gypsy), Compass Rose (The Diary of Anne Frank and Eleanore), and Bay Theatre Company (Beyond Therapy). Other costume design credits from years of theater in Florida include The Importance of Being Ernest, Beau Jest, The Last Night of Ballyhoo, Call Me Madam, and Gypsy (yes, she has had the “joy” of costuming this show twice!). Beth was most recently on stage at The Colonial Players as Williamina Fleming in Silent Sky. Work behind the scenes includes director, producer, set designer, play consultant, and tech crew. Happily retired, these days you might catch Beth in colonial garb leading historic and ghost tours around Annapolis…when she isn’t doing “things” for the theatre.

Dianne Trickey-Rokenbrod (Lighting Designer) Dianne is a recent “transplant” to the area, moving with her husband Bill from Western New York. Her love of community theatre moved with her, and she is thrilled to join the Annapolis theatre community. Bringing varied experience in acting, directing, and lighting, Dianne was encouraged to jump in with both feet on this classic Christmas show! In true Colonial Players fashion, there were plenty of people to mentor and support her as she learned the ropes at CP. She would like to extend special thanks to John Purnell, Wes Bedsworth, Bill Reinhardt, and Tim Brown for all their help. And no bio for Dianne is complete without recognition of her family, truly the “wind beneath her wings.”

Krisztina Vanyi (Set Designer) You can take the woman out of Annapolis but you cannot take The Colonial Players (love of theatre) out of her. Despite living almost an hour away Krisztina is always happy to come back to CP as she still considers it her second - artistic - home. Starting with the 2014 Summer One Act Festival (lead set painter) she has been hooked on paint fumes and has contributed to the production of shows such as Dead Man's Cell Phone and A Few Good Men (lighting assistant), The Liar (set designer), Shiloh Rules (painter/prop builder), It's a Wonderful Life (Lead set painter/designer). Krisztina also has been working on sets for the Victorian Lyric Opera, Rockville Little Theatre, and Rockville Musical Theatre. When not behind the scenes, she enjoys taking comedic and musical improv classes at WIT DC, Graphic Design, Interior Design, and Architectural/Visual Communication classes at AACC just for fun. She works as a principal data scientist to support her theatre habit.

Written by Lynn Nottage
Directed by Eleanore Tapscott
Performance Dates:
October 22 – November 13, 2021
Run time: 2h 20m
(including intermission)

Our second show of the season takes us to the Golden Age of Hollywood and shines the spotlight on Vera Stark, a headstrong African American maid and aspiring starlet. Vera’s life is transformed when she’s cast in a trailblazing role… in a movie starring her boss. Decades later scholars and historians grapple with Vera’s legacy in Hollywood and the impact race had on her controversial career. This spritely, sly satire is a journey through Vera’s seventy-year life and a sharp take on race and culture — both in the past and today.

About the Playwright

Lynn Nottage is a Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and a screenwriter. Her plays have been produced widely in the United States and throughout the world. Sweat (Pulitzer Prize, Obie Award, Susan Smith Blackburn Prize, Tony Nomination, Drama Desk Nomination) moved to Broadway after a sold out run at The Public Theater. Other works: Ruined (Pulitzer Prize, OBIE, Lucille Lortel, New York Drama Critics' Circle, Audelco, Drama Desk, and Outer Critics Circle Award); Intimate Apparel (American Theatre Critics and New York Drama Critics' Circle Awards for Best Play); Fabulation, or The Re-Education of Undine (OBIE Award); Crumbs from the Table of Joy; Las Meninas; Mud, River, Stone; Por'knockers; and POOF!. For By The Way, Meet Vera Stark, she was the recipient of the Lilly Award and earned a Drama Desk Nomination. She is a graduate of Brown University and the Yale School of Drama. She wrote the book for the Arena Stage production of the new musical, Toni Stone.

About the Director

Eleanore Tapscott is a classically trained actress and director, and a major fan of Lynn Nottage's work. Eleanore has directed for various metroDC theatres including Little Theatre of Alexandria, Port City Playhouse, Aldersgate Church Community Theater, The Arlington Players, Reston Community Players, and Dominion Stages. Most recently, she directed Toni Morrison's The Bluest Eye (Dominion Stages) and August Wilson's Fences (Little Theatre of Alexandria). She thanks the CP board for the opportunity to stage this funny and thoughtprovoking play. Upcoming productions include Radio Golf (Peace Mountain Theater), Playing Juliet, Casting Othello (Providence Players), Purlie Victorious (ACCT). She encourages audience members to learn more about Vera's amazing story and career by visiting Rediscovering Vera Stark (http://www.meetverastark.com/welcome.html).

Director's Notes

I was thrilled to have the opportunity to direct By the Way, Meet Vera Stark, a funny but moving look at racial stereotypes and misogyny in Hollywood, using different mediums with the language and style of 1930s screwball comedies. The play also provides an insightful look at the power and transcending force of media. Growing up, my parents (particularly my mother) would constantly admonish me to not believe everything you see in the movies (or on television), as it is all make-believe. The reason for this admonishment was to avoid the fate of hapless children who thought they could jump out of a window and fly like Superman or project cobwebs and scale tall buildings like Spiderman. Such is the power of film. In this play, Nottage suggests had not the Hays Code been implemented, “the whole trajectory of Hollywood would have been different, [and possibly race relations] in America would have been different because the representations of people of color and particularly of women would have been much more expansive.” And what pray tell is the Hays Code? Between the introduction of sound pictures in 1929 and the enforcement of the Motion Picture Production Code (commonly known as the Hays Code), Hollywood enjoyed a brief period during which there was little or no censorship of subject matter and visual imagery. In these pre-code films, bad folks got away with their misdeeds, women were sexual, and African American characters were fully dimensional and interacted with white characters as a friend or confidante rather than a maid. All that changed with the arrival of the Hays Code, which implemented harsh restrictions on the subject matter and visual imagery -- including violence, sex, criminal activity, obscenity, religion, and race -- depicted in films. One clause in the code forbade the depiction of miscegenation, or “the mixing of different racial groups through marriage, cohabitation, sexual relations or procreation.” Post-code films show African Americans as stereotypes, and talented black actors and actresses (many with vaudeville and Broadway credits) found themselves jockeying for these limiting roles. Those who became successful playing these roles were frequently scorned. (Hattie McDaniel, the first African American to win an Oscar for her portrayal of Mammy in Gone with the Wind, famously responded to such criticism by saying, “Why should I complain about making $7,000 a week playing a maid? If I didn’t, I’d be making $7 a week being one.”) Theresa Harris, an African American actress who appeared in over 80 films (pre and post-code) was an inspiration for Vera Stark. Although Vera Stark is fictional, her journey is that of Harris and many other black actresses who found their way to Hollywood looking for their chance to be a star. They found if they wanted to survive, given their limited opportunities, they would have to put on the mask and be slaves and maids. But at what cost? How much of one’s true identity should be sacrificed to pursue a life-long dream? 

— ELEANORE TAPSCOTT

The Cast

Rick Estberg (Frederick Slasvick / Brad Donovan) - After a 3 1/2 year theater layoff, Rick is so excited to be back with CP in his seventh show. His favorite roles include Luigi Gaudi in Lucky Stiff, Max Tarasov in Superior Donuts, John in Calendar Girls, and Ziggy in Side Man. He recently retired from NSA with 45 years of government service and now spends most of his time tending his Eastern Box Turtles, traveling (most recently to Aruba, Hawaii, the Florida Keys, and the giant redwoods of California), and playing piano. He dedicates his performance to his two sons: Robb and Charlie.

Colleen Isaiah (Anna Mae Simpkins / Afua Assata Ejobo) - Colleen is thrilled to perform her debut role with The Colonial Players. After a year of virtual shows, returning to live theatre heightens her delight and gratitude for this experience. Her favorite past roles include Mary in The Blob (a local, original musical), Andy Lee in 42nd Street, Sid Sawyer in Tom Sawyer, and Sonia in Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike. Offstage, she loves watching The Great British Baking Show and filling her home with adorable projects from Pinterest.

Tracy McCracken (Lottie McBride / Carmen Levy-Green) - Tracy is excited about her first production with The Colonial Players. She has done four shows for Memorial Players in Baltimore: The Wizard of Oz, Into the Woods, A Christmas Carol, and Ragtime. She appeared in Hair for Guerilla Theatre Front and in two productions for On the Road Theater – Those Cute Boys and Negro Water. Tracy played Motormouth Maybelle in Purple Light Theatre Company’s Hairspray. She appeared in Silhouette Stages’ 9 to 5 - The Musical, and as Anastasia in Baltimore Rock Opera Society’s Amphion. Tracy is thankful to Steve, Maura, India, Kateri, and her family for their love and support.

Joseph T. Smithey (Leroy Barksdale / Herb Forrester) - Joseph is honored and excited to make his debut with The Colonial Players. He has acted on and off since 2014, most notably as a co-star in the award-winning independent mockumentary, Rock & Bowl Express. During the pandemic, Joseph continued to hone his skills through his completion of the 2020 Honors Acting Conservatory at The Theatre Lab in Washington, D.C., appearing in several virtual and a couple of onstage performances. Joseph is grateful for the hard work of all of his colleagues involved in By the Way, Meet Vera Stark and cannot wait to perform for live audiences once again!

Ashley Simon (NËE Spooner) (Vera Stark) - Ashley is delighted to take the stage as Vera Stark, marking her sixth production with The Colonial Players. Ashley previously played Ginger Reed in the 2020 production of Book of Days, as well as Ranger Wilson in the 2017 production of Shiloh Rules. She is so very thankful that CP has continually given her the opportunity to play characters with last names. Ashley would like to recognize the tireless work of the cast and production team – you’re all rockstars! As always, Ashley is grateful to her mother, family, and friends for their love and encouragement. She would especially like to thank her supportive and loving husband who encouraged her to return to the stage and eagerly took on “daddy daycare” during rehearsals. You are such a blessing to Clara and me!!

Sarah Wade (Gloria Mitchell) - Sarah is thrilled to be back onstage with By the Way, Meet Vera Stark. Prior CP credits include Elaine Harper in Arsenic and Old Lace; Honey in Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (WATCH award winner for Best Supporting Actress); Gabriella in BoeingBoeing; Cecily Cardew in Ernest in Love; twins Sabine and Isabelle in The Liar; multiple roles in A Christmas Carol; Catherine in These Shining Lives; the Star-to-be in Annie; Jessica in Communicating Doors; and Kitty in Taking Steps. She directed the 2019 production of A Christmas Carol and is pleased to direct it again this year. She has also been behind the scenes as a sound designer for Love, Loss, and What I Wore; Sex with Strangers; Calendar Girls; Watch on the Rhine; and Side Man. "Thanks to everyone for understanding that I can't, I have rehearsal. Love always to Eric."

Tom Wyatt (Maxmillian von Oster / Peter Rhys-Davies) Tom is grateful for the chance to appear on The Colonial Players stage once again, having performed in Casa Valentina, in 2018 and before that when he was in high school (in the previous century). Favorite roles include Buddy in Follies, Ira in The Tale of the Allergist's Wife, Lloyd Dallas in Noises Off, Rooster in Annie, Frederick in Enchanted April, and eight roles (all "WASPS") in The Dining Room. As a director and choreographer in Baltimore, his recent shows include Titanic - the Musical, The Drowsy Chaperone, and Little Women (Dundalk Community Theatre); and Sister Act, The Secret Garden, and Curtains (Cockpit In Court). During the day, Tom works at medical schools (Johns Hopkins University, the University of Maryland, and Georgetown) helping student doctors improve their communication skills and focus on the needs of the patient.

The Production Staff

Alex Brady (Lighting Designer) Alex has been designing lighting in Annapolis and Baltimore since 2002. He has been nominated for the WATCH Award for Outstanding Lighting Design multiple times, most recently for 33 Variations and Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? at The Colonial Players. He recently directed The White Rose at CP. Brady served as the resident lighting designer for the AACC Dance Company for 15 years and works with various local theaters and high schools. He is an alumnus of the Graduate Institute at St. John's College and also teaches for the Arts Department at Anne Arundel Community College.

Ben Cornwall (Sound Designer) Ben has been working since 2000 with The Colonial Players, where he found a love for sound design working on Of Mice and Men. Since then he's designed many shows, most recently, Casa Valentina. “I'm glad we are able to do live theatre again! Welcome back!”.

Hannah Housley (Stage Manager) Hannah is very excited to take on the role of stage manager for By the Way, Meet Vera Stark after working as crew previously for many other shows at The Colonial Players. She is very grateful to Ernie Morton and Andy McLendon for m.

Barbara Marder (Producer) Barbara is pleased to again be working with a production for The Colonial Players. As an ardent fan of the work of playwright Lynn Nottage and enamored of shows using mixed media and mixed time sequence, she is excited to be a part of the production company for By The Way, Meet Vera Stark. The enthusiasm and dedication of the cast combined with the knowledge and skill of director Eleanore Tapscott make the process of building this show a delight. Over the last 30 plus years Barbara has served in a variety of roles for The Colonial Players from Board member to director to show producer. Since retiring from Anne Arundel Community College, where she directed numerous plays and musicals as well as serving as chair of Performing Arts, Barbara has enjoyed a variety of volunteer activities, including work with the American Association of University Women, recording for the Maryland Library for the Blind, teaching ESOL for Centro de Ayuda in Annapolis, and working part time as a standard patient for area medical schools.”

Christina McAlpine (Costume Co-Designer) “It is a blessing to be back designing and creating at the theatre!” After an unforgettable year, Christina was excited and daunted at the challenge when she was asked to do this wonderful show. However, she knew she had to commit after discovering the show was a Lynn Nottage play with 1930’s gowns and glamour! Previous costume design credits at CP include: co-designer for Casa Valentina (Watch nominated); It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play; The Cripple of Inishmaan; Boeing-Boeing; (Watch Nominated for Makeup); Dead Man’s Cell Phone; and The Curious Savage. Christina holds a BFA in Theatre from the University of West Florida. During the day she works in the veterinary field and is a proud foster kitten mom who works with animal rescues in the Baltimore area. She would like to thank her fellow costumer, Linda for all the positive energy and creativity; our director, Eleanore for being such a lovely human; Amy and Beth for your sewing skills; our fabulous production team, and all our actors for being so positive and kind! Special thank you to her partner, Yanick, for all your love and support.

Edd Miller (Set Designer) Edd has a long history with The Colonial Players as a director, actor, set designer, and volunteer in other areas. His most recent set design was for Maytag Virgin, which he also directed. Other recent design credits were for Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike, Calendar Girls, and Good People, another production he directed. Edd was nominated for a Washington Area Theatre Community Honors set design award for Chapter Two and won a 2012 WATCH award for best direction of a play for Going to St. Ives, which also won awards for best play (out of 83 plays judged) and for best lead actress. Edd has acted in and directed many other shows since joining CP in 1964. His most recent onstage appearance was as Justice Robert Shallow in The Merry Wives of Windsor.

Linda Swann (Costume Co-Designer) Linda is enjoying her stint as co-costume designer for this incredible show. It has been a blast playing with live barbie dolls again and working with such incredibly talented individuals. She would like to thank God for this opportunity to play, Christina for keeping her organized, and the director, cast, and crew for their trust during this adventure. Enjoy the show.

Written by Lauren Gunderson
Directed by Jennifer Cooper
Performance Dates: 
September 10 – October 2, 2021
Run time: 2h 20m
(including intermission)

Our travels begin in Paris at the height of the French Revolution’s Reign of Terror. It’s 1793, and time to meet four beautiful, bad-ass women: former queen Marie Antoinette, assassin Charlotte Corday, playwright Olympe de Gouges, and Caribbean spy Marianne Angelle. This grand and dream-tweaked comedy is about violence and legacy, art and activism, feminism and terrorism, and compatriots and chosen sisters. The jury’s still out on who really runs the world, but these four ladies sure as hell changed it.

About the Playwright

Pick a week at any time of the year, and chances are a play by Lauren Gunderson is being produced somewhere in the United States by a regional or community theatre. Gunderson is a prolific author of more than 20 plays and musicals and was the most produced playwright in America in 2017 and 2019. She has won numerous awards for her writing, including two Steinberg/ATCA New Play Awards for I and You and The Book of Will, plus the Otis Guernsey New Voices Award. She was also a recipient of a genius grant from the McArthur Foundation. Colonial Players presented Gunderson’s Silent Sky to the acclaim of critics and our audiences in January, 2019.

About the Director

Jennifer Cooper is returning to direct a Colonial Players season production after previously directing The Babylon Line, recognized with a 2018- 2019 Ruby Griffith Award as First Runner Up for Outstanding Achievement in a Play. Her work was again acknowledged with a 2019-2020 Ruby Griffith Award as First Runner Up in a Musical for Mamma Mia! at Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre. With an undergraduate degree in theatre, Jennifer took a (long!) hiatus from the world of theatre to focus on her most important priority — her family. She returned to theatre with CP’s 2017 One Act Play Festival as director of David Ives’ The Universal Language, which went on to win awards for Excellence in Directing, Outstanding Production, and Technical Excellence at the 2018 Maryland Community Theatre Festival. Some of her previous directing work includes Agnes of God, Spoon River Anthology, and Tartuffe. Stage credits include Procne (The Song of Procne), Rizzo (Grease), Audrey (Little Shop of Horrors), Rita (Educating Rita), and Mary Poppins (Mary Poppins). “Thank you to The Colonial Players for this opportunity to be a louder part of the revolution, and to my cast and creative team for perseverance, bravery, dedication, and being my ‘who are we?’” To David and Noah — it is only, ever, and always because of you that I have any voice at all. For all my days I will try to make you proud xo.”

Director's Notes

It’s an odd thing, to make theatre during a pandemic. It’s odd to have to intentionally decide whether or not to even pursue theatre in a pandemic. Ultimately, you’re reading this because, decide we did. We thought it was THAT important, to hopefully in some small way give our audience relief, entertainment, distraction, and connection. Thank you for being here.

I didn’t mean to like The Revolutionists. It was begrudgingly read at the recommendation of a colleague (Thanks, Gwen!), and that’s all it took. I was quickly struck by its layers and its femalecenteredness. I started to think of my modernday revolutionary sisters fighting for rights and freedoms. It’s sobering to me to think how much these patterns deeply persist and how we have the same, only slightly altered fights, over and over again. Revolution is something that has always had a soundtrack in my mind. It is scored by punk and rock music and expressed in art. It is not quiet, or reserved, or polite. It is sometimes held together with ink and ribbons. And safety pins. It persists though. Mostly because it HAS to. Here’s to my sister revolutionaries for your perseverance despite fatigue, soul-numbing repetition, and seeming defeat. I see you. This is why we fight. Viva La Revolution!

— JENNIFER COOPER

The Cast

Carey Bibb (Charlotte Corday) – This is Carey’s debut performance with The Colonial Players and she is so excited to be acting in this production a mere 18 months after auditioning. She spent the last seven years as a teacher in Japan, Egypt, and China, and is thrilled to be back in the United States, able to perform again! She formerly acted in A Seussified Christmas Carol and Almost, Maine with The Newtowne Players in St. Mary’s County. During the pandemic Carey lent her voice to podcasts such as Starcrossed and Reap, and also acted in Zoom plays in order to keep honing her skills. She’d like to thank all of the badass women (and men) involved in this production, as well as all of the badass audience members who have come to see it! Hope you enjoy the show!

Samantha McEwen Deininger (Marianne Angelle) – Samantha is eager to be back on The Colonial Players stage after 10 years away! A professional singer and actor from Columbia, MD, she has performed in more than 40 musicals, plays, operas, and films throughout the country and received numerous awards. She is stepmom to two amazing children, Stuart and Eden, owns her own business, and belongs to the band, Scotch and Lies, alongside her wonderful husband, Stephen. Notable roles have included Nicki in The Bodyguard, Sour Kangaroo in Seussical, Queenie in Showboat, Sarah in Ragtime, Micaela in Carmen, Joanne in Godspell, Queenie in The Wild Party, Geneva in The 1940's Radio Hour, Erzulie in Once on this Island, Joanne in Rent, Fiordiligi in Così Fan Tutte, Jenny in Company, Reno in Anything Goes, Tituba in The Crucible, Suzanne in Picasso at the Lapin Agile, Eisa in Trojan Women 2.0, Pamina in The Magic Flute, Reba in You Can't Take it With You, 1st Soprano in The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and her only other Colonial Players credit, Hallie/Marguerite in Inventing Van Gogh. Samantha is so grateful for the opportunity to do live theater again and over the moon to be sharing the stage with these BADASS ladies!

Ryan Gunning Harris (Marie Antoinette) – Ryan received her B.A. in Theatre Performance from the College of Charleston. She is thrilled to be returning to The Colonial Players in this incredible production. She was previously seen in The Colonial Players production of Nine. A huge thank you to Sam, Mary, and Carey for making me laugh and making me better as an actor and a badass woman. Special thanks to Jennifer and David and the rest of the team for their encouragement and trust in me for reasons beyond my understanding. “Thank you to Amy and Leigh for making me look incredible. To Meghan, Alex, and Patrick for all of your love and support. To Mom and Dad, for everything you’ve done for me. To my husband, Brad, for choosing me, loving me, and encouraging me to do things I didn’t think I could.”

Mary C. Rogers (Olympe de Gouges) – Mary is happy to be back on stage in this long-awaited production of The Revolutionists and to share the stage with three amazing women! Mary has worked onstage, backstage, and everywhere in between with a number of community theatres in Maryland. Some of Mary's favorite roles include Maggie in Red Herring, Aunt Bella in Lost in Yonkers (WATCH nomination), Lana Sherwood in It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, and Hilary in Tribute. Mary thanks her husband, Abner, for being amazing and dedicates her performance to four young badasses: Nanette, Grace, Annalise, and Emma. Three cheers to the crew and production staff for their incredible work!

The Production Staff

Amy Atha-Nicholls (Costume Designer) Maker of stuff, nonsense, and mischief by decree. Amy has worn many hats, including puppeteer, costumer, pyrographer, designer, short-film producer, playwright, archer, wench (when required), and assassin on occasion (specializing in heart attacks...). Amy is in awe of the absolute rockstars involved with this production and has loved every second of working with them. Love always to R, P, & K, evermore O.

Richard Atha-Nicholls (Set/Video Projection Designer) Richard loves a challenge and has had a lot of fun designing the set for The Revolutionists, including the projections. His last foray into set design at The Colonial Players was for Towards Zero, which also included projections. Usually he’s found working behind the computer and mixer doing sound design and engineering for local theatres, primarily at The Colonial Players, Bowie Community Theatre, and Laurel Mill Playhouse. His sound designs have garnered two WATCH nominations. Richard has appeared on area stages and in his spare time helps run Discworld conventions. Occasionally he has been known to direct. Love to C, A, P & K. Always in my heart, O.

Shannon Benil (Lighting Co-Designer) Shannon has mainly been seen performing at CP since starting here 28 years ago but recently decided to branch out by joining the Board as Treasurer. She also first-time directed the one-weekend-only musical I Love You Because earlier this year. Now she is testing the waters on the technical side as a first-time lighting co-designer. She thanks Jennifer for the opportunity and support.

David Cooper (Assistant Director/Sound Designer) David has been involved with The Colonial Players for the past several seasons. He was last seen on stage in Book of Days. Behind the scenes he has provided technical assistance and sound design for a number of shows. Most recently David helped to establish and run the system used for live streaming Maytag Virgin. Working with the badass women of The Revolutionists has been wonderful. “To Jennifer - my partner in everyday revolutions, I love you.”

Megan Henderson (Properties Designer/Set Decorator) Megan is happy to be back with CP after stage managing Love, Loss and What I Wore! She is a teaching artist, actor, director, stage manager, and wardrobe assistant. She has previously worked with Toby’s Dinner Theatre, Signature Theatre, Ford’s Theatre, Drama Learning Center, Red Branch Theatre Company, and Liberty High School. Megan holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Seton Hill University.

Leigh Rawls (Makeup/Hair/Wig Designer) Leigh is thrilled to be a part of her first CP production. Though she lives and works as a graphic designer in downtown DC, she’s usually found performing, directing, and designing at Silver Spring Stage (SSS) and Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre (ASGT), among others. She most recently created the set and five huge dragon heads for She Kills Monsters at SSS. Prior to the pandemic, she directed, costumed, and set designed SSS’s critically acclaimed production of Perfect Arrangement, a simultaneously comedic and heart-wrenching story about the struggle of LGBTQ+ individuals at the State Department in 1950s Washington, DC. In Annapolis, Leigh was last seen onstage in ASGT’s 9-to-5: The Musical (2018), Bullets Over Broadway (2018), The Full Monty (2017), and The Wedding Singer (2016). Outside of theatre and work, Leigh enjoys cosplaying, playing D&D, enjoying an overly-complicated cocktail, and being outdoors, preferably hiking or skiing.

Ernie Morton  (Stage Manager) When Ernie read the script for The Revolutionists he contacted Jennifer to beg her to let him work on this show. He is so glad that he did. The cast, staff, and crew have been phenomenal. The level of talent and commitment exhibited by everyone associated with The Revolutionists has been inspiring. Ernie has stage managed around a dozen shows at The Colonial Players, and even with two dozen “marines” in A Few Good Men, none of those shows has been this badass.

Robin Schwartz  (Producer) Robin is overjoyed that theatre-in-the round is back at The Colonial Players! After graduating from Goucher College with a B.A. in Theatre, she directed and produced plays at Red Branch Theatre Company and Drama Learning Center. Robin directed Love, Loss and What I Wore for CP this past summer. She was last seen on the CP stage as Ruth Hoch in Book of Days. Favorite credits include Dawn in The Universal Language (Outstanding Performance from the Maryland Community Theatre Festival), Thea Elvsted in Hedda Gabler, and Joan Dellamond in The Babylon Line. “So much gratitude to the whole CP team for the opportunity to create theatre with these amazing, and truly badass, artists.”

Ginny White  (Lighting Co-Designer) This is Gin’s first experience with lighting design at The Colonial Players. She is excited to be a part of such a creative artistic team. Gin has designed lighting and sound for several local community theatres and was the technical director at The Children’s Theatre of Annapolis for many years. When not behind the scenes, she has enjoyed being on stage and appeared most recently at The Colonial Players in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.