CofC Stages to Open Season with Men on Boats, a True(ish) History Comedy

CofC Stages at the College of Charleston’s Department of Theatre and Dance opens its 2023-2024 season on October 4th with the play Men on Boats by Jaclyn Backhaus. This season features eight compelling productions that each highlight the theme of “Expectations and Explorations”—challenging what we think we know as we discover the world around us, as well as ourselves.

Men on Boats takes us back to an actual 1869 expedition of the Colorado River, in which explorer John Wesley Powell led nine other men to “discover” the Grand Canyon. First produced in 2015, Men on Boats cleverly deconstructs the idea of discovery as we know it and invites audience members to reconsider the records of American history.

Written by Jaclyn Backhaus, Men on Boats premiered as part of Clubbed Thumb’s Summerworks Theatre Festival. Backhaus is a playwright and screenwriter best known for Men on Boats, but is also the author of plays Out of Time, Wives, India Pale Ale, and You on the Moors Now. Much of her work examines peoples and cultures which are historically underrepresented.

The play’s inventive casting, as outlined by the playwright, allows for a cast of women, trans, and non-binary actors to portray Powell and his crew of white, cisgendered men, humorously re-examining the ownership that these groups have over our history.

The production is directed by guest artist Sharon Graci, co-founder and Artistic Director of PURE Theatre. Graci shares, “Men on Boats is a delightfully fresh piece of theatre. Featuring an incredibly talented cast, design team, and crew, it is guaranteed to be a charming, provocative, and satisfyingly funny show.”

The cast is led by Isabella Gardner in the role of John Wesley Powell, Natalie Holland as William Dunn, and LG Wylie as John Colton Sumner. The show’s designers include theatre majors Madison Berry (senior, scenic design), Alex Jones (junior, lighting design), and Savannah Blake (senior, costume design), as well as Department of Theatre and Dance staff member Miles Boinest (sound design) and Bea Lemaster (senior, assistant sound design). Junior theatre major Kylie Daisey is the assistant director, senior theatre major Nora Gore is the dramaturg, and sophomore theatre major Olivia Maness serves as the stage manager.

DETAILS: Performances of Men on Boats at the Chapel Theatre (172 Calhoun St.) are Oct. 4-8 and Oct. 10-13. Curtain times are 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 4-7 and 10-13, with 2:00 p.m. matinees on Oct. 7 and 8.

Discounted season ticket packages are available for all eight CofC Stages productions. Individual tickets for Men on Boats are $25 for adults; $20 for seniors (60+), military/veteran, and youth under 18; and $12 for CofC students, faculty, and staff. Individual ticket prices for other shows in the CofC Stages season vary by show. Purchase season packages or individual tickets online at go.cofc.edu/cofcstages or contact the George Street Box Office by emailing gsbo@cofc.edu or calling (843) 953-4726.


2023-2024 CofC Stages Season

Men on Boats by Jaclyn Backhaus

After the Rain (faculty-choreographed dance concert)

In Love and Warcraft by Madhuri Shekar (staged reading)

Pippin by Stephen Schwartz and Roger O. Hirson

The Pages Festival: Staged Readings of Student-Written Works

Die Fledermaus by Johann Strauss II (co-production with Department of Music/CofC Opera)

Pathways (student-choreographed dance concert)

The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde

Visit go.cofc.edu/cofcstages to learn about all eight productions that center on the theme “Expectations and Explorations”

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Men on Boats – Digital Program

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Stelle di Domani 2023: Tickets on sale now!

The Department of Theatre and Dance is pleased to announce our offerings for Stelle di Domani 2023! Our annual contribution to the Piccolo Spoleto Festival, Stelle di Domani showcases the work of students, faculty, and alumni and features theatre, dance, and staged readings.

Featuring contributions from Center Stage and Annex Dance Company, Stelle di Domani 2023 hopes to offer something for everyone! Check out this year’s schedule and find ticket links and more information below.

V3: A Dance Installation
Annex Dance Company presents a dance installation within the Carla Gannis / C.A.R.L.A. G.A.N.: wwwunderkammer exhibit at the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art. The culmination of the annual residency with the Department of Theatre and Dance, this site-specific piece is created and performed by students and company members.

Performances: June 1st at 5:30pm; June 2nd at 11:30am; June 8th at 6:30pm
Venue: Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art
Address: 161 Calhoun Street
Admission: free
Run time: 20 minutes


Alumni Dance Concert

In celebration of the 10th Anniversary of the Dance Major, the Department of Theatre and Dance is proud to produce a dance concert featuring the work of alumni who are making an impact in our dance community. Featuring works in a variety styles, this concert will be performed by students and companies from dance organizations throughout the Lowcountry.

Performances: Sunday, June 4th at 3pm
Venue: Chapel Theatre
Address:
Admission: $16 (general admission); $12 (students and seniors) plus ticket surcharge
Run time: 60 minutes without intermission
Buy tickets here!


Five Women Wearing the Same Dress by Alan Ball


Five Women Wearing the Same Dress is an irreverent comedy that follows five bridesmaids seeking refuge from the wedding reception in an upstairs bedroom. These fundamentally different women become unlikely friends when they realize they have more in common than they previously thought: it turns out they all hate the bride!

Contains themes of sexual assault, fatphobia/body dysmorphia, and homophobia.

Performances: Friday, May 26th at 6pm; Saturday, May 27th at 3pm; Sunday, May 28th at 6pm; Monday, May 29th at 6pm
Venue: Chapel Theatre
Address: 172 Calhoun St.
Admission: $16 (general admission); $12 (students and seniors) plus ticket surcharge
Run time: 2 hours, 10 minutes
Buy tickets here!


Musical Theatre Cabaret

presented by CofC Stages and Charleston Playhouse

Clyde Moser is a Charleston, South Carolina-based actor, dancer, vocalist, and educator. Clyde is a graduate of the College of Charleston and has performed in multiple shows including RENT, Addams Family, Spring Awakening, A Chorus Line, and the New York Summer Play Festival. Clyde moved back to Charleston to pursue his Master of Arts in Teaching at his alma mater. Join Clyde and CofC Theatre professor Laura Turner on piano for an hour of selections from the musical theatre canon.

Performances: Sunday, May 28th at 3pm
Venue: Chapel Theatre
Address: 172 Calhoun Street
Admission: $40; free for students
Run time: 60 minutes without intermission
Buy tickets here!


There’s Always Tomorrow by Sonya Hayden

In this one-act drama, two individuals long to explore the world beyond their conservative Southwest Virginia town, but obstacles of marriage and parenthood constrain them as the years of their lives slip away. There’s Always Tomorrow is a poignant exploration of how our identities, relationships, and worldviews are shaped by our upbringing and the places we call home.

Performances: Thursday, June 8th at 6pm; Friday, June 9th at 2pm and 6pm; Saturday, June 10th at 6pm
Venue: Chapel Theatre
Address: 172 Calhoun St.
Admission: $16 (general admission); $12 (students and seniors) plus ticket surcharge
Run time: 60 minutes without intermission
Buy tickets here!


Staged Readings from the Todd McNerney Playwriting Contest

Free staged readings of the Todd McNerney 14th Annual National Playwriting contest finalists. This year’s staged reading series features winners and runners-up from the last three years of the Todd McNerney National Playwriting Contest. Previous winning plays have come from notable playwrights including Caridad Svich (lifetime Obie award winner), Sheila Cowley, Arthur M. Jolly, James Still, William Missouri Downs, and Donnetta Lavinia Grays. 

Performances: Tuesday, May 30th through Saturday, June 10th at 4pm daily (12 readings in total). Winners and runners-up from the 2021, 2022, and 2023 contests will each have two readings.
Venue: Calhoun Street Annex Room 106 (adjacent to the Chapel Theatre)
Address: 172 Calhoun St.
Admission: Free (seating is limited)
Run time: 60-90 minutes (various)


Under the Lights 

This perennial Piccolo favorite highlights original College of Charleston student works. A series of 10-minute plays, Under the Lights features winners of the Franklin B. Ashley Playwriting and the Todd McNerney Student Playwriting Awards.

Performances: Tuesday, June 6th at 6pm; Wednesday, June 7th at 6pm
Venue: Calhoun Street Annex Room 106 (adjacent to the Chapel Theatre)
Address: 172 Calhoun Street
Admission: $10 (general admission)
Run time: 60 minutes
Buy tickets here!

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Marcus; or the Secret of Sweet – Paperless Program

CofC Stages proudly presents

Marcus;
or the Secret of Sweet

by Tarell Alvin McCraney

Directed by Gary DeWitt Marshall

Scenic Designer
Jonathan Wentz
Costume
Designers

Zach Kobylarz
Ambernice Tolliver
Lighting Designer
Lauren Duffie
Sound Designer
Eli Salas
Technical Director
JD Stallings

Costume Shop Manager

Ellen Swick
Stage Manager
Mikaela Phillips

April 14-16, 2023
Sottile Theatre, 66 George Street


Jump to: Production Team | Acknowledgments | Cast and Production Team Biographies


Cast

Randy Howell | Oshoosi Size
Gee Barber | Marcus Eshu
Sylvia Jones | Osha
Brandi Smalls | Shaunta Iyun
Dani Harrell | Oba
Gloria Smith | Shun/Understudy
Tonya S. Williams | Elegua
Jaden Jenkins | Ogun Size
Alexandar Leary | Terrell
Darius Darby | Shua


Production Team

CofC Stages Artistic Director: Janine McCabe
Director of Theatre: Nakeisha Daniel
Production Supervisor: Miles Boinest
Choreographer: Jah’mar Coakley
Intimacy Coordinator: Nakeisha Daniel

Stage Management Advisor: Susan Kattwinkel
Assistant Stage Manager: Olivia Maness

Assistant Scenic Designer: Madison Berry
Research Assistant: Allison Jones
Properties Lead
: Jonathan Wentz
Properties Artisans: Bristol Barnes, Madison Berry, Zach Kobylarz, Ambernice Tolliver
Media and Projection Research: Chris Warzynski
Media and Projection Editor: Madison Berry
Media and Projection Sound Designer: Eli Salas
Scenic Charge: Jonathan Wentz
Scene Shop Staff (select students hired by the Department of Theatre & Dance with support from donor funding): Bristol Barnes, Madison Berry, Glenna Durbin, Isabella Gardner, Bea Lemaster, Caroline Magee, Max Marshall, Ella Moore, Ethan Robey, Eli Salas

Scenic Construction: Students of Stagecraft
Properties Room Manager: Isabella Gardner
Fly Rail Operators: Izzy Byers, Spencer Vinzani

Costume Design Advisors: Janine McCabe, Ellen Swick
Hair, Wig, and Make-Up Designer/Artisan: Lauryn Gadson

Sewing & Alterations: Stef Amezcua Barrientos, Ashlyn Denham, Mattison Gaillard, Sav Griffin, Cameron Gulledge, Samantha Stinner, and students of Intro to Costuming
Wardrobe Crew: Sidney Shanahan, Mira Turkewitz
Costume Shop Staff (select students hired by the Department of Theatre & Dance with support from donor funding): Brandon Alston, Molly Belle, Savannah Blake, Zachary Kobylarz, Olivia Maness

Associate Lighting Designers: Alex Jones, Chris Warzynski
Head Electrician: Bootsie Baldwin
Electricians: Katie Burns, Madelein Hanson, Caroline Magee, Reed, Ethan Robey, Eli Salas, Sara Whitehead
Light Board Programmer/Operator: Abby Israel
Electric Shop Staff (select students hired by the Department of Theatre & Dance with support from donor funding): Bootsie Baldwin, Alex Jones, Chris Warzynski
Follow Spot Operators: Katie Higens, Mary Galemmo

Sound Design Advisor: Caleb Garner
Sound/Mic Technician: Jacob Reiss
Sound Board Operator: Nitin George

CofC Stages Operations Coordinator: Miles Boinest
Marketing & Communications: Nandini B. McCauley
Graphic Designer: Rob Alexander
Photography: Madison Berry
Publicity: Madison Berry, Zach Kobylarz

Box Office: George Street Box Office
House Manager: Sara Whitehead
Office Assistant: Ngaa Magombedze


Special Thanks

Capt. Tim Agee, Anja Kelley, Victoria Leatherman, Carolyna Ramirez, Adam Wells, Evie Palmisano, and the George Street Box Office Staff


Thank you to all of our donors!

Become an Impact Sponsor
The Department of Theatre and Dance offers opportunities to become an Impact Sponsor. Impact Sponsors have a direct financial and personal impact on individual students with whom you’ll be connected. You will be honored at special events, receive recognition in the 2022-2023 season programs and other department reports and receive updates from your student. For more information, visit theatre.cofc.edu/support and contact our office at 843.953.6306 to declare your impact.

Impact Sponsor Levels:
BENEFACTOR $2,500+ (for incoming student scholarship)
Add your name here!

GUARDIAN $750 (Clarence Student Award)
Karl & Charlene Bunch
Tap & Jean Johnson
Mindy Seltzer & Bob Lovinger
Evelynn & Bill Putnam
Sam & Nancy Stafford
Charlotte Townsend
Louis & Andrea Weinstein
Chester & Arlene Williams
Anonymous (4)

Special Gifts: (Leave a lasting legacy. Learn more: 843.953.5348 or cofclegacy.org)
Anonymous – legacy gift
Charleston Academy of Music
John Covington & Robert Lukey – legacy gift
Michael & Susan Master – legacy gift

Become a Season Sponsor
As we transitions back to live in-person audiences and mask-free performances last season, we worked hard to keep our students and audiences engaged. We preserved the student experience during these last two years, but we lost essential revenue that plays a huge role in funding our season’s productions. Your donations contribute to funding the essentials needed for scenery, lighting, sound, and costumes, but more importantly, they help support student employees, student research and travel, and other student-focused experiences. We can’t do this without your generosity!

Season Sponsor Levels:
PRODUCER $1000+
Karl & Charlene Bunch
Tap & Jean Johnson
Jenny Hane
Anthony Laneve
Anne & Allen Lyndrup
Sam & Nancy Stafford
Chester & Arlene Williams

ADVOCATE $750-999
Susan Kattwinkel
Janine McCabe
Matt & Gretchen McLaine
Susan Morrison
Evelynn & Bill Putnam
Mindy Seltzer & Bob Lovinger
Nancy & Sam Stafford
Louis & Andrea Weinstein
Jonathan & Janine Wentz

STAR $500-749
Michael & Susan Master
James McKenna
Valerie B. Morris

DIRECTOR $250-499
Kristin Alexander
Sandra N. Bumgarner
Janice and Jay Messeroff

FAN $100-249
Donnetta L. Grays
Todd McNerney
Jillian and Michael Smallwood
Emma Simmons
Justin Van Beusecum

PATRON up to $99
Mary Beth Berry, Laura C. Bayless, Stephen & Allegra Litvin, James Rozier, Bari Perales, Claire Steffens, Laura Turner


Cast and Production Team Biographies

Guest Artist:
Ambernice Tolliver (she/her) is a Charleston native. Her love and appreciation for theatre began at a young age with Charleston Stage Company. Ambernice went on to study costume design at the College of Charleston. She also received a Master’s degree from University of Southern California Marshall School of Business. Ambernice’s recent theatrical credits include Septima, Hangmen, Clyde’s, and A Hidden Life (PURE Theatre). Her creativity and love for the fine arts has guided her back to the Carolinas where she has reconnected with her theatrical roots at PURE Theatre and as a mentor at the College of Charleston.

Guest Artist:
Tonya S. Williams (she/her) is a College of Charleston alumna with a B.A. in Theatre. As an actress and singer, she has had the performed all around Charleston at venues such as The Dock Street Theater in A Raisin in the Sun, Footlight Players Theater in Crumbs from the Table of Joy, Threshold Theater in The Trials and Tribulations of a Trailer Park Housewife, and The Charleston Music Hall in the musical Love & Southern Discomfort.  Her most memorable performance was at Flowertown Players, when she performed for the legendary Ossie Davis in his play Purlie Victorious as the lead female role Luttiebelle.  Tonya is a PURE Theatre Core Ensemble member. Her credits at PURE include Retcon, This Random World, Father Comes Home from the Wars: Part 1, 2, and 3, the world premiere of Honoria Quietly Drawing Strength from Her Truth, and Clyde’s. Her film credits include The In Crowd and Netflix’s comedy Naked with Marlon Wayans.

Tonya is also a national recording artist and a singer/songwriter/producer (tonyanicolemusic.com). She performs various genres such as R&B, Funk, Soul, Jazz, Pop, and Gospel. When Tonya is not performing, she teaches Theater Arts with the non-profit organization Engaging Creative Minds. Tonya is also a former Theater teacher with Charleston County & DD2 Schools. Her passion to teach and inspire drives her each day. She feels truly blessed to be able to enjoy her passions day and night; performing and teaching it.


Gee Barber (he/him) is a senior majoring in Theatre. This is his third mainstage production with the College of Charleston. He has previously performed in Last Night and the Night Before as well as A Sudden Spontaneous Event. Outside of the theatre he is also a nomad, poet, and photographer. 

Madison Berry (she/her) is a junior majoring in Theatre (Performance and Scenic Design/Technology). Previous design credits include Violet (properties). 

Darius Darby (he/him) is a junior majoring in Theatre. This is his first mainstage production at the College of Charleston. He can’t wait to share the beautiful story of Marcus; or the Secret of Sweet.

Lauryn Gadson (she/her) is a junior majoring in Theatre (Performance). This is her first time designing hair and makeup for a College of Charleston production. She was last seen in Violet

Dani Harrell (she/her) is a senior double majoring in Public Health and Dance with a minor in Theatre. This is her second mainstage production at the College of Charleston. She was last seen in the Fall 2022 dance concert Shifting Perspectives

Randolph James Howell Jr. (they/them) is an undeclared major. This is their first show at the College of Charleston. 

Jaden Jenkins (he/him) is a senior majoring in Theatre for Youth. He has performed in many of the College of Charleston productions including Violet and Cabaret.  

Alex Jones (they/them) is a sophomore at the College of Charleston, originally from Spartanburg, SC. They are majoring in Theatre (Lighting Design and Technology) with a minor in film studies. This is Alex’s first time as an associate designer for the mainstage. Recent technical credits at the college include: Two Gentlemen of Verona (head electrician), Violet (co-head electrician), and Shifting Perspectives (Lighting Designer). Alex would like to thank Lauren Duffie for being a wonderful mentor.

Sylvia Jones (she/her) is a senior double majoring in Communication and Theatre (Performance). This is her fourth mainstage show. She has performed in Spark, Living Dead in Denmark, and Everybody. This is her first time performing in the Sottile and she is excited to conclude her College career with this performance. 

Zach Kobylarz (they/them) is a senior majoring in Theatre (Costume Design and Technology) from Pawleys Island, SC. This is their fifth mainstage show at the College of Charleston. Their work was last seen in Becoming We as a lighting designer and Shifting Perspectives as a costume designer.

Alex Leary (he/him) is a sophomore majoring in Theatre (Performance) and minoring in Film Studies and African American Studies. This is his second mainstage show at the College of Charleston. He was last seen in Pipeline

Mikaela Phillips (she/her) is a junior double majoring in Theatre and Communication. This is her third mainstage show, having assistant stage managed Cabaret and A Sudden Spontaneous Event. She has also stage managed Center Stage’s production of The Swing of the Sea.

Eli Salas (they/he) is a junior majoring in Theatre (Scenic/Lighting Design and Technology). He is this season’s student sound designer. He made his sound design debut with Center Stage’s production of The Swing of the Sea. They last designed CofC’s Two Gentlemen of Verona. You can see him next in Center Stage’s production of Firebringer

Brandi Smalls (she/her) is a junior majoring in Theatre (Performance). This is her third mainstage show at the College of Charleston.

Gloria Smith (she/her) is a junior majoring in Public Health with a minor in Theatre. She is excited to make her theatrical debut in Marcus; or the Secret of Sweet. This production holds a special place in her heart because of the artistry, camaraderie, and community that she has found by working with the wonderful people on this project.

Chris Warzynski (any pronouns) is a Sophomore pursuing a major in Theatre (Performance and Lighting Design and Technology) and a minor in Japanese Studies. Chris last designed three dance pieces for the Shifting Perspectives dance concert as well being the head electrician for Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley. Chris has performed in Two Gentlemen of Verona and Violet as will be in Center Stage’s upcoming production of Firebringer.

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

CofC Stages concludes its 2022-2023 season with Marcus; or the Secret of Sweet

CofC Stages presents its season finale, Marcus; or the Secret of Sweet, by Tarell Alvin McCraney. The play is a provocative, poignant and fiercely humorous coming-of-age story of a young gay man in the South.

Marcus is 16 and “sweet.” Days before Hurricane Katrina strikes the housing projects of Louisiana, the currents of his life converge, overflowing into his close-knit community and launching the search for his sexual and personal identity on a cultural landscape infused with mysterious family creeds. Marcus; or the Secret of Sweet is a beautiful view into the life of a young man who just wants to feel like he belongs.

April 14 and 15 at 7:30pm • April 16 at 2pm

Sottile Theatre (44 George St.)

Recommended for ages 12+ 

Individual tickets are $20 for adults; $15 for seniors (60+), military/veteran, youth (under 18); $12 for College of Charleston students, faculty/staff. 

or buy tickets in person at Sottile Theatre (Tue-Fri, 10am-4pm), by emailing gsbo@cofc.edu or calling (843) 953-4726.

Directed by theatre instructor Gary DeWitt Marshall, Marcus; or the Secret of Sweet features a cast and crew composed of CofC students, faculty, and guest artists. Design faculty members Lauren Duffie and Jonathan Wentz serve as lighting designer and scenic designer, respectively. Guest artist Ambernice Tolliver and theatre major Zach Kobylarz serve as costume designers and theatre major Eli Salas serves as sound designer. The cast is led by theatre major Gee Barber and includes local actor and musician Tonya Smalls Williams as a guest artist.

Tarell Alvin McCraney is an American playwright, screenwriter, and actor. He is the chair of playwriting at the Yale School School of Drama and a member of the Steppenwolf Theatre Ensemble. He wrote the Brother/Sister trio of plays, which are set in the Louisiana projects and explore Yoruba mythology. The triptych of plays includes In the Red and Brown Water, The Brothers Size, and Marcus; or the Secret of Sweet. The plays are not in chronological order, but rather are “in conversation” with one another. McCraney explains, “Each play began a different way – inspired by my brothers and sisters and all of them are dedicated to them. They are about interconnected relationships and the complexities of those.”

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Becoming We – Digital Program

Becoming We

Artistic Director
Kristin Alexander
Costume Shop Manager
Ellen Swick
Technical
Director

Evie Palmisano
Technical Director
JD Stallings
Stage Manager
Cat Champlin

March 25-26, 2023
Sottile Theatre, 44 George Street


Jump to: Production Team | Acknowledgements | Cast and Production Team Biographies


Dance Pieces and Program Notes

Lost & Found
Choreography by Emily Falcone
Music by Patrick Watson
Music Editing by Emily Falcone
Lighting Design by Bootsie Baldwin
Performed by Aidan Baumann, Avé-Ella Blanchette, Maya Everett-Wilson, Lindsey Ferguson, Angela Levasseur, Sidney Shanahan, Emily Monahan*, Cheyanne Stankiewicz*

“There is no growth without change, no change without fear or loss, and no loss without pain.” – Rick Warren

Pendulum
Choreography by Kylee Poole
Music by Charles W. Miller, Harold Brown, Howard E. Scott, Lee Oskar, Leroy L. Jordan, Morris Dickerson, Sylvester Allen, and Thomas James
Music Editing by Kylee Poole
Lighting Design by Zachary Kobylarz
Performed by Madison Fisher, Sophie Ketchum, Gabby Perales, Elizabeth Vazquez, Ally Keschinger*, Libbie Krey*

“The pendulum of the mind alternates between sense and nonsense, not between right and wrong.” Carl Jung

Not My Responsibility
Choreography by Halle White
Music by Olafur Arnalds, Alice Sara Ott, and Finneas
Lighting Design by Isabella Gardener
Performed by Elli Batchelor, Destiny Humphrey, Irina Moul, Sidney Shanahan, Sophia Wirta, Jenna Bush*, Mia Moran*

This piece is inspired by the collaborative voices of the dancers and myself as we explored the impacts of social media and societal standards on body image.

Weathered Rhythm
Choreography by Whitney Green
Music by Alibi Music, Rain Sounds Lab
Music Editing by Whitney Green
Lighting Design by Sara Whitehead
Performed by Angela Levasseur, Helene Nemeth, Gabby Perales, Alyssa Guardino*, Emily Monahan*

“Things turn out the best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out.” – John Wooden


10 MINUTE INTERMISSION


Breaking the Mold
Choreography by Mary Galemmo
Music by Zoë Keating, Wil Baptiste, and Kev Marcus
Music Editing by Rob Alexander and Cameron Robins
Lighting Design by Bootsie Baldwin
Performed by Aidan Baumann, Ayushi Gaur, Katie Higens, Dylan Horwitz, Madison Jackson, Kailee Rafalko, Jenna Bush*, Leila Crane*

When you step into the studio even you have preconceived notions about yourself. Growing is knowing that you don’t have to be trapped in one style of dance.
“I look back, and I have no regrets, truly. Everything led me to the place where I am now.” – Wendy Whelan

How It Ends
Choreography by Maya Everett-Wilson
Music by Mychael Danna
Lighting Design by Sara Whitehead
Performed by Emily Falcone, Camilla Linkin, Claire Natiez, Corrina Castillo*, Elizabeth Vazquez*

“I’m poison, I come from poison, I have poison inside of me” – Will Arnett

Symbiotic
Choreography by Katie Higens
Music by Efterklang and Danish National Chamber Orchestra
Lighting Design by Heaven Egan
Performed by Elli Batchelor, Izzy Byers, Glenna Durbin, Mary Galemmo, Madison Jackson
Ava Woods*

This piece explores the parallels between relationships in nature and human connections and how nature is a reflection of the human experience.

Juntos
Choreography by Alejandra Casco
Music by Marc Anthony & E. E. Garcia
Music Editing by Alejandra Casco
Lighting Design by Heaven Egan
Performed by Lindsey Ferguson, Madison Fisher, Libbie Krey, Ally Keschinger, Camilla Linkin, Kylee Poole, Cheyanne Stankiewicz, Gianna Trimboli, Maura Dougherty*, Dylan Horwitz*

The Latin culture revolves around family and community, and that’s exactly what this piece is about. This piece is all about people coming together and living life, because no one is in this alone.

*indicates understudies


Production Team

CofC Stages Artistic Director: Janine McCabe
Director of Dance: Gretchen McLaine
Production Manager: Ellen Swick
Stage Management Advisor: Susan Kattwinkel
Assistant Stage Manager: Cheyenne Comitz

Costume Designer and Coordinator: Maddie Robertson
Costume Design Advisor: Ellen Swick
Wardrobe Crew: Taylor Bennett, Glenna Durbin, Trinity Griffin, Ashleigh Meadows
Sewing & Alterations: Students of Costume 1 class
Costume Shop Staff (select students hired by the Department of Theatre & Dance with support from donor funding): Brandon Alston, Molly Belle, Savannah Blake, Zachary Kobylarz, Olivia Maness

Lighting Design Advisor: Lauren Duffie
Head Lighting Designer: Bootsie Baldwin
Light Board Programmer and Operator: Gillian Huntley
Electric Shop Staff (select students hired by the Department of Theatre & Dance with support from donor funding): Mia Bowersox, Alex Jones, Chris Warzynski

Sound Engineer: Eli Salas
Sound Board Operator
: Cat Champlin
Fly Rail Operator: Bristol Barnes

Operations Coordinator: Miles Boinest
Marketing & Communications: Nandini B. McCauley
Graphic Designer: Rob Alexander
Photography: Madison Berry
Publicity: Madison Berry, Zach Kobylarz
Box Office: George Street Box Office
House Manager: Isabella Gardner
Office Assistant: Ngaa Magombedze


Special Thanks

Anja Kelley and the Sottile Theatre staff; Carolyna Ramirez and the George Street Box Office staff


Thank you to all of our donors!

Become an Impact Sponsor
The Department of Theatre and Dance offers opportunities to become an Impact Sponsor. Impact Sponsors have a direct financial and personal impact on individual students with whom you’ll be connected. You will be honored at special events, receive recognition in the 2022-2023 season programs and other department reports and receive updates from your student. For more information, visit theatre.cofc.edu/support and contact our office at 843.953.6306 to declare your impact.

Impact Sponsor Levels:
BENEFACTOR $2,500+ (for incoming student scholarship)
Add your name here!

GUARDIAN $750 (Clarence Student Award)
Karl & Charlene Bunch
Tap & Jean Johnson
Evelynn & Bill Putnam
Mindy Seltzer & Bob Lovinger
Sam & Nancy Stafford
Charlotte Townsend
Louis & Andrea Weinstein
Chester & Arlene Williams
Anonymous (4)

Special Gifts: (Leave a lasting legacy. Learn more: 843.953.5348 or cofclegacy.org)
Anonymous – legacy gift
Charleston Academy of Music
John Covington & Robert Lukey – legacy gift
Michael & Susan Master – legacy gift

Become a Season Sponsor
As we transitions back to live in-person audiences and mask-free performances last season, we worked hard to keep our students and audiences engaged. We preserved the student experience during these last two years, but we lost essential revenue that plays a huge role in funding our season’s productions. Your donations contribute to funding the essentials needed for scenery, lighting, sound, and costumes, but more importantly, they help support student employees, student research and travel, and other student-focused experiences. We can’t do this without your generosity!

Season Sponsor Levels:
PRODUCER $1000+
Karl & Charlene Bunch
Jenny Hane
Tap & Jean Johnson
Anthony Laneve
Anne & Allen Lyndrup
Sam & Nancy Stafford
Chester & Arlene Williams

ADVOCATE $750-999
Susan Kattwinkel
Janine McCabe
Matt & Gretchen McLaine
Susan Morrison
Evelynn & Bill Putnam
Mindy Seltzer & Bob Lovinger
Nancy & Sam Stafford
Louis & Andrea Weinstein
Jonathan & Janine Wentz

STAR $500-749
Michael & Susan Master
James McKenna
Valerie B. Morris

DIRECTOR $250-499
Kristin Alexander
Sandra N. Bumgarner
Janice and Jay Messeroff

FAN $100-249
Donnetta L. Grays
Todd McNerney
Jillian & Michael Smallwood
Emma Simmons
Justin Van Beusecum

PATRON up to $99
Mary Berry, Laura C. Bayless, Stephen & Allegra Litvin, James Rozier, Bari Perales, Claire Steffens, Laura Turner


Cast and Production Team Biographies

Kristin Alexander is an Associate Professor of Dance at the College of Charleston.  She is the Artistic Director of Annex Dance Company and serves on the City of Charleston’s Commission on the Arts. Kristin most recently choreographed the department’s production of Violet as well as a piece for Shifting Perspectives in the fall.

Bootsie Baldwin is a sophomore majoring in Computing in the Arts with a concentration in Theatre and minoring in Mathematics from Charleston, SC. This is her first mainstage show as a designer at the College of Charleston.

Elli Batchelor is a sophomore majoring in English, with a concentration in Literature, Film, and Culture and a minor in Medical Humanities, from Greenville, SC. This is her second mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Wanderlust.

Aidan Baumann is a junior double majoring in Dance and Hospitality & Tourism Management from Philadelphia, PA. This is her fifth mainstage show at The College of Charleston. She was last seen as Frenchie in the Musical Cabaret.

Taylor Bennett is a senior double majoring in Dance and Early Childhood Education from Aiken, SC. This is her eighth mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Shifting Perspectives.

Avé-Ella Blanchette is a sophomore double majoring in Dance and Special Education from Nashua, NH. This is her third mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Shifting Perspectives.

Jenna Bush is a freshman majoring in Biology with a minor in Theatre from St. Louis, MO. This is her first mainstage show at the College of Charleston.

Izzy Byers is a senior double majoring in Dance and Accounting from Greenville, SC. This is her eighth mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Shifting Perspectives.

Corrina Castillo is a freshman majoring in Communication with a double minor in Spanish and Dance from East Hampton, NY. This is her first mainstage show at the College of Charleston.

Alejandra Casco is a junior from Summerville, SC majoring in Dance with a concentration in performance and choreography and minoring in Arts Management.This is her sixth mainstage show at the College of Charleston and second time choreographing. Her work was last seen in Wanderlust in Spring 2022.

Cat Champlin is a senior double majoring in Arts Management and Theatre with a concentration in Performance and a minor in Italian Studies from Greenville, SC. This is her eighth mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing as Anne De Bourgh in Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley in Fall 2022 and she last stage managed Once More in Fall 2021.

Cheyenne Comitz is a sophomore majoring in Theatre with a concentration in Theatre Studies and English with a concentration in Creative Writing from Mount Pleasant, SC. This is her first mainstage show at the College of Charleston.

Leila Crane from Atlanta, Georgia is a sophomore double majoring in Dance and English on the pre-law track. This is her third performance with the College of Charleston and was last seen in Shifting Perspectives.

Glenna Durbin is a senior double majoring in Theatre (Performance) and History, and minoring in Dance. This is her eighth mainstage show with the College of Charleston. She was last seen as Mary Bennet in Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley.

Heaven Egan is a Junior majoring in Theatre with a concentration in Lighting Design and Technology from El Paso, Texas. This is their first mainstage show at the College of Charleston.

Maya Everett-Wilson is a junior Dance Major from Natick Massachusetts. This is their fourth mainstage show at the College of Charleston. They were last seen performing in Finding Place.

Emily Falcone is a sophomore double majoring in Dance and Psychology from Smithfield, Rhode Island. This is her third mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Shifting Perspectives.

Lindsey Ferguson is a freshman majoring in Psychology and minoring in Dance from Greenville, SC. This is her second mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Shifting Perspectives.

Maddie Fisher is a sophomore majoring in Dance with a concentration in performance/ choreography and minoring in Finance from Ocean, New Jersey. This is her fourth mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Shifting Perspectives.

Mary Galemmo is a senior majoring in Exercise Science with a minor in Dance from Greenville, SC. This is her sixth mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Shifting Perspectives.

Ayushi Gaur is a freshman majoring in Dance and Marine Biology from Memphis, TN. This is her second mainstage show at the College of Charleston.

Whitney Green is a junior majoring in Arts Management and minoring in Marketing and Psychology. This is her fourth mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Shifting Perspectives.

Katie Higens is a junior double majoring in Dance (Performance and Choreography) and Biology double minoring in Neuroscience and Crime, Law, and Society. This is her fifth MainStage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Shifting Perspectives.

Dylan Horwitz is a sophomore majoring in Dance and minoring in Arts Management and Jewish studies from Fairfield, CT. This is her second mainstage production with the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Wanderlust.

Destiny Humphrey is a junior double majoring in Arts Management and Marketing with a minor in Entrepreneurship from Anderson, SC. This is her fifth mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Shifting Perspectives.

Gillian Huntley is a senior majoring in Theatre Performance. This is her first time working on a dance concert. She is excited to finish her year working on Becoming We.

Madison Jackson is a sophomore majoring in Psychology from Greenville, SC. This is her first mainstage show at the College of Charleston.

Ally Keschinger is a sophomore double majoring in Dance and Psychology and minoring in Crime, Law, and Society from Irmo, SC. This is her second mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Wanderlust.

Sophie Ketchum is a freshman majoring in Dance and minoring in Studio Art from Nashville, Tennessee. This is her second mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen in the fall 2022 production Shifting Perspectives.

Zach Kobylarz is a senior majoring in Theatre with a concentration in Costume Design, from Pawleys Island, SC. This is their fourth mainstage show at the College of Charleston. Their work was last seen in Shifting Perspectives as a costume designer and in Wanderlust as both a costume and lighting designer.

Libbie Krey is a freshman currently Undecided from Richmond, VA. This is her first mainstage show at the College of Charleston.

Angela Levasseur is a freshman majoring in Chemistry with a minor in Biomedical Physics from Spartanburg, SC. This is her second mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Shifting Perspectives.

Camilla Linkin is a freshman majoring in Business Administration with a concentration of Leadership for Sustainability from Greenville, SC. This is her first mainstage show at the College of Charleston.

Ashleigh Meadows is a senior majoring in Arts Management and minoring in Dance from Sumter, South Carolina. This is her first mainstage show at the College of Charleston.

Emily Monahan is a sophomore majoring in English with a minor in Dance from Landrum, SC. This is her second mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Wanderlust.

Mia Moran is a freshman majoring in Psychology with a minor in Dance from Fort Mill, SC. This is her first mainstage show at the College of Charleston.

Irina Moul is a senior majoring in Dance with a performance and choreography concentration and a minor in Russian studies. She is from both Asheville, NC and Columbia, SC. This is her filth mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Shifting Perspectives.

Claire Natiez is a senior double majoring in Arts Management and Dance with a concentration in Performance and Choreography from Greenville, SC. This is her sixth mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Shifting Perspectives.

Helene Nemeth is a freshman majoring in Marine Biology and minoring in Dance from Levittown, PA. This is her first mainstage show at the College of Charleston.

Gabby Perales is a sophomore majoring in Psychology with a double minor in Communication and Jewish studies from Sumter, SC. This is her second mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen as an understudy in Wanderlust.

Kylee Poole is a sophomore double majoring in Dance and Communication from Knoxville, TN. This is her fourth mainstage production at the College. She was last seen in Shifting Perspectives.

Kailee Rafalko is a sophomore double majoring in Dance and Communication from Hackettstown, NJ. This is her fourth mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Shifting Perspectives.

Maddie Robertson is a recent alumna of the College of Charleston. As a dance major she had the opportunity to expand her education and work on designing costumes for dance. She is excited to return for her second main stage show designing costumes. Her work was last seen in Shifting Perspectives.

Sidney Shanahan is a junior double majoring in Business Administration and Dance with a concentration in Performance and Choreography and minoring in Spanish from Shelton, SC. This is her sixth mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Shifting Perspectives.

Cheyanne Stankiewicz is a sophomore majoring in Marketing with a double minor in Arts Management and Business Administration from Greenville, South Carolina. This is her third mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Shifting Perspectives.

Gianna Trimboli is a junior double majoring in Dance and Theatre with a concentration in Performance from Rochester, New York. This is her fourth mainstage show for the College of Charleston and she was most recently seen in Five Women Wearing the Same Dress, a Center Stage show, as well as the mainstage production of Cabaret.

Elizabeth Vazquez is a freshman majoring in Marine Biology with a minor in Dance from Columbia, South Carolina. This is her second mainstage show at the College of Charleston.

Halle White is a sophomore double majoring in Arts Management and Dance with a concentration in Performance and Choreography from Greenville, SC. She has performed in three Mainstage productions including the fall dance concert Shifting Perspectives. This is her first time sharing her choreography.

Sara Whitehead is a senior majoring in Theatre with a concentration in Lighting Design and Technology. She has previously designed dance pieces for the department as well as the plays Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley and Two Gentlemen of Verona. She is excited to be designing this concert as her senior capstone.

Sophia Wirta is a freshman majoring in Dance from Bangor, ME. This is her first mainstage show at the College of Charleston.

Ava Woods is a Sophomore majoring in Dance and minoring in Biomedical Physics from Towson, Maryland. This is her fourth mainstage show at the College of Charleston. She was last seen performing in Shifting Perspectives.


Land Acknowledgement: We would like to acknowledge that we are located on the traditional lands of the first people of Charleston: The Etiwan, Kiawah, Edisto Natchez Kusso, Santee, and Wassamassaw people (also known as Varner Town Indians). 

We acknowledge and honor all the indigenous people who lived, labored and were faithful stewards of the land. We express our deep gratitude for the land and continued faithful stewardship to the next seven generations. 

We also acknowledge the lives and labor of the Africans who were enslaved to build Charleston, South Carolina. 

On this campus and in this space, African and African-descended people used skilled labor in ornamental ironwork, historic architecture, and low country agriculture and food production. On behalf of the College of Charleston, we acknowledge the Black lives and labor that built our city and our campus.

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Becoming We, a Student-Choreographed Dance Concert, opens March 25th at the Sottile Theatre!

Our spring concert Becoming We features works by eight student choreographers exploring the theme of ‘me’ becoming ‘we.’ As the Department of Theatre and Dance celebrates the 10-year anniversary of the establishment of its dance major, Becoming We reflects the growth of diversity of genres represented on stage and the artistic strength of the students. Tap dancing in rain boots, Latin social dance, and a work that includes both ballet and modern are only three of the eight pieces in the concert.  

Often, we find ourselves in new relationships and new communities that challenge our sense of self. Kristin Alexander, associate professor of dance and artistic director of the concert, notes the various ways that the choreographers chose to investigate the theme, ‘becoming we.’  “The choreographic process is quite vulnerable, and I have been in awe of how open the students have been from the beginning. The audience is going to witness an eclectic concert that has moments of celebration, sorrow, curiosity, and empowerment through movement,” shares Alexander. Although they have all performed in previous concerts, many of the choreographers are presenting a work for the department for the first time.   

Performances are Saturday, March 25 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 26 at 2:00 p.m. at Sottile Theatre (44 George St.)

Tickets: $20 for adults; $15 for seniors (60+), active military/veterans, and youth under 18; and $12 for CofC students, faculty, and staff.

Ticket link for the public

Ticket link for CofC students(for instructions & info click here)

Ticket link for CofC faculty/staff

orbuy tickets in person at Sottile Theatre (Tue-Fri, 10am-4pm), by emailing gsbo@cofc.edu or calling (843) 953-4726.

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Two Gentlemen of Verona – Digital Program

CofC Stages proudly presents

Two Gentlemen of Verona

by William Shakespeare

Directed by Michael Smallwood

Scenic Designer
Bristol Barnes
Costume
Designers

Brandon Alston
Molly Belle
Lighting Designer
Sara Whitehead
Sound Designer
Eli Salas
Technical Director
JD Stallings

Costume Shop Manager

Ellen Swick
Stage Manager
Mollie Davis

February 22-March 2, 2023
Chapel Theatre, 66 George Street


Jump to: Production Team | Acknowledgments | Director’s and Dramaturgical Note | Cast and Production Team Biographies


Cast

Mekhi Gaither | Valentine
Kit Fischer | Proteus
Isabella Garner | Speed
Caroline Magee | Julia
Madelyn LaBarge | Lucetta, 4th Outlaw
Bri Fabian | Antonio
Madelein Hanson | Panthino
Mia Brady | Silvia
Chris Warzynski | Launce
Mason Monti | Thurio
Lauren Evans | Duke
Max Marshall | Host
Aidan Wunderley | 1st Outlaw
Arden McNeil | 2nd Outlaw
Jazmine Brown | 3rd Outlaw
Noah Anderson | Eglamor
Jake Cisson | Understudy


Production Team

CofC Stages Artistic Director: Janine McCabe
Director of Theatre: Nakeisha Daniel
Production Manager: Miles Boinest
Stage Management Advisor: Susan Kattwinkel
Assistant Director: Madison Berry
Assistant Stage Managers: Allison Jones, Ella More
Intimacy Coordinator: Nakeisha Daniel

Scenic Design Advisor: Jonathan Wentz
Properties Lead
: Bristol Barnes
Scenic Charge: Ethan Robey
Assistant Scenic Charge: Jonathan Wentz

Lead Carpenter: AP Hart
Scenic Construction and Painting: Students of Stagecraft, Madelein Hanson, Liz Perkins
Properties Room Manager: Isabella Gardner
Scene Shop Staff (select students hired by the Department of Theatre & Dance with support from donor funding): Bristol Barnes, Madison Berry, Glenna Durbin, Isabella Gardner, Bea Lemaster, Caroline Magee, Max Marshall, Ella Moore, Ethan Robey, Eli Salas

Costume Design Advisor: Janine McCabe, Ellen Swick
Sewing & Alterations: Stef Amezcua Barrientos, Ashlyn Denham, Mattison Gaillard, Sav Griffin, Cameron Gulledge, Samantha Stinner, and students of Intro to Costuming
Wardrobe Crew: Kylie Daisey, Ashlyn Denham, Lexi Prioleau, Amari Woodard
Costume Shop Staff (select students hired by the Department of Theatre & Dance with support from donor funding): Savannah Blake, Zachary Kobylarz, Brandon Alston, Olivia Maness, Molly Belle

Lighting Design Advisor: Lauren Duffie
Head Electrician: Alex Jones
Light Board Programmer/Operator: Bootsie Baldwin
Electric Shop Staff (select students hired by the Department of Theatre & Dance with support from donor funding): Alex Jones, Chris Warzynski
Electricians: Bootsie Baldwin, Mia Bowersox, Bri Fabian, Caroline Magee, Eli Salas, Kate Yarbray

Sound Design Advisor: Caleb Garner
Sound Board Operator: Abby Israel

CofC Stages Operations Coordinator: Miles Boinest
Marketing & Communications: Nandini B. McCauley
Graphic Designer: Rob Alexander
Photography: David Mandel, Madison Berry
Publicity: Madison Berry, Zach Kobylarz

Box Office: George Street Box Office
House Managers: Emme Burleson, Kalyn Jacobs, Reagan Neilson
Office Assistant: Ngaa Magombedze


Special Thanks

Heaven Egan, Jake Cisson, Gillian Huntley, Ambernice Tolliver, Fresh Prince Fits, Ren Mummert, Anja Kelley, Carolyna Ramirez, and the George Street Box Office staff


Thank you to all of our donors!

Become an Impact Sponsor
The Department of Theatre and Dance offers opportunities to become an Impact Sponsor. Impact Sponsors have a direct financial and personal impact on individual students with whom you’ll be connected. You will be honored at special events, receive recognition in the 2022-2023 season programs and other department reports and receive updates from your student. For more information, visit theatre.cofc.edu/support and contact our office at 843.953.6306 to declare your impact.

Impact Sponsor Levels:
BENEFACTOR $2,500+ (for incoming student scholarship)
Add your name here!

GUARDIAN $750 (Clarence Student Award)
Karl & Charlene Bunch
Tap & Jean Johnson
Mindy Seltzer & Bob Lovinger
Evelynn & Bill Putnam
Sam & Nancy Stafford
Charlotte Townsend
Louis & Andrea Weinstein
Chester & Arlene Williams
Anonymous (4)

Special Gifts: (Leave a lasting legacy. Learn more: 843.953.5348 or cofclegacy.org)
Anonymous – legacy gift
Charleston Academy of Music
John Covington & Robert Lukey – legacy gift
Michael & Susan Master – legacy gift

Become a Season Sponsor
As we transitions back to live in-person audiences and mask-free performances last season, we worked hard to keep our students and audiences engaged. We preserved the student experience during these last two years, but we lost essential revenue that plays a huge role in funding our season’s productions. Your donations contribute to funding the essentials needed for scenery, lighting, sound, and costumes, but more importantly, they help support student employees, student research and travel, and other student-focused experiences. We can’t do this without your generosity!

Season Sponsor Levels:
PRODUCER $1000+
Karl & Charlene Bunch
Tap & Jean Johnson
Jenny Hane
Anthony Laneve
Anne & Allen Lyndrup
Sam & Nancy Stafford
Chester & Arlene Williams

ADVOCATE $750-999
Susan Kattwinkel
Janine McCabe
Matt & Gretchen McLaine
Susan Morrison
Evelynn & Bill Putnam
Mindy Seltzer & Bob Lovinger
Nancy & Sam Stafford
Louis & Andrea Weinstein
Jonathan & Janine Wentz

STAR $500-749
Michael & Susan Master
James McKenna
Valerie B. Morris

DIRECTOR $250-499
Kristin Alexander
Sandra N. Bumgarner
Janice and Jay Messeroff

FAN $100-249
Donnetta L. Grays
Todd McNerney
Jillian and Michael Smallwood
Emma Simmons
Justin Van Beusecum

PATRON up to $99
Mary Beth Berry, Laura C. Bayless, Stephen & Allegra Litvin, James Rozier, Laura Turner


Director’s Note

“We have to do with the past only as we can make it useful to the present and the future.”

I’ve been thinking a lot about this quote from Frederick Douglass since I started working on Two Gentlemen of Verona, likely William Shakespeare’s first play.

As we, myself and the incredible student design team, developed our approach to this play, we looked into the past a lot. We dissected the play and found the seeds of much of the rest of Shakespeare’s career. We drew inspiration from the architectural history of Verona and Milan. We mined the 1980s and 1990s for music and fashion.

But there are pieces of that past, and this play’s history, that were not useful to our present or our future, and certainly not our production. Those pieces have fallen away. Other pieces have been shifted to bring them into line with our present. The entire process has been illuminating about the way we engage with classic plays.

It has all proven to be a fertile and exciting learning opportunity for our student designers, crew members, and cast.

—Michael Smallwood
Director


Cast and Production Team Biographies

Guest Artist:
Michael Smallwood
(he/him) is an actor, writer, and director. He is an award-winning playwright whose works have been produced in Atlanta, Charleston, DC, and New York City. His award-winning short films How Many Times and What a Beautiful Wedding have played festivals across the US and Europe. Michael is also an accomplished stage and screen actor, with featured roles in The Inspectors, Halloween Kills, and the upcoming Livescreamers. He is a core member at PURE Theatre and teaches Playwriting/Screenwriting at the College of Charleston.


Brandon Alston (he/him) is a junior majoring in Theatre with a concentration in Costume Design and Technology.  This is his first mainstage costume design. His work as an assistant costume designer includes A Christmas Carol (Charleston Stage) and Mlima’s Tale (PURE Theatre)Previous acting credits include Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley, Pipeline, and Living Dead in Denmark. 

Noah Anderson (he/him) is a junior double majoring in History and Theatre. This is his 3rd MainStage show at the College of Charleston. He also performed in Cabaret and Violet. He was also featured in Center Stage’s The Swing of the Sea.  

Molly Belle (she/her) is a senior majoring in Theatre with a concentration in Costume Design and Technology.  This is the second mainstage production she has been a part of here at the College and is delighted to have had the opportunity to co-design such a wonderful show. Her previous assistant costume design work includes Violet (CofC), A Christmas Carol (Charleston Stage), Mlima’s Tale (PURE Theatre), and Don Giovanni (Charleston Opera Theater).

Mia Brady (she/her) is a sophomore at the College. She is very excited to be a part of Two Gentleman of Verona and would like to thank her director, cast, and parents for all their support throughout this production.

Bristol Barnes (she/they) is a junior majoring in Theatre (Scenic Design and Performance) and minoring in Film Studies. She is very excited for her first show as Scenic Designer at the College of Charleston. Their work has previously been seen as Assistant Scenic Designer on Cabaret and their directorial work has been seen in Center Stage’s Proof this January. 

Jazmine Brown (any pronouns) is a junior majoring in Theatre. This is the first mainstage production they are a part of and they are really excited to be on the stage again! 

Jake Cisson (they/he) is a sophomore at the College of Charleston, majoring in Theatre and Business.  This is their first production at the College.

Mollie Davis (she/they) is a junior majoring in Psychology and Theatre. She has been involved in many shows at the College including Violet as Stage Manager, Everybody as co-Stage Manager, and Pipeline as Assistant Stage Manager. She is so happy to have been able to work with such a wonderful cast and also would like to thank her mom for supporting her unconditionally with her adventures in theatre. 

Lauren Evans (she/her) is a sophomore Theatre major at the College of Charleston with a performance concentration. This is her second performance at the College, the first being the Fall 2022 Haunted House (The Case of the Missing Students), where she played a tour guide. Lauren is excited to be a part of this cast, and hopes you enjoy the show!

Bri Fabian (she/her) is a senior German and Arts Management major with minors in Theatre and Marketing. This is her first appearance in a main stage production, but she was previously in the Department’s Director’s Showcase as Thea Elvsted in Hedda Gabler.

Kit Fischer (he/they) is a sophomore at the College of Charleston majoring in Foreign Language Education. Previously, he has performed as Dr. Everett Scott in Center Stage’s 2022 production of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Kit is delighted to be a member of such an amazing cast and would like to thank everyone for believing in him.

Mekhi Gaither (he/him) is a senior at the College majoring in Theatre (Theatre for Youth). He is beyond grateful for the cast and crew and is excited to be a part of this production. He has previously been seen in Violet, Pipeline, Everybody, and Arts under the Oaks.

Isabella Gardner (she/her) is a sophomore double majoring in Theatre (General) and Arts Management. This is her second mainstage show and she is so excited to get another opportunity to perform! When she’s not performing, she’s the properties room manager and a scene shop assistant. 

Madelein Hanson (she/her) is a sophomore majoring in Theatre Studies and French and Francophone Studies. She is very excited to be in her first show at the College of Charleston!

Madelyn LaBarge (she/her) is a freshman at CofC. This is her first show at the College and her first Shakespeare. Madelyn would like to thank Michael Smallwood for helping her break out of her shell during the rehearsal process, her castmates, the crew members for being extremely kind and welcoming, and her parents. 

Caroline Magee (she/they) is a senior at the College double-majoring in Theatre (Performance) and English (Creative Writing). She was last seen on the Mainstage as God in Everybody and as Boots for Center Stage’s production of The Swing of the Sea for the Stella di Domani Theatre Series. She is incredibly grateful to the entire Two Gents team, especially Michael Smallwood, for this opportunity. It has been filled with so much vivacity and light. What an honor + joy it is to get to share this space with you. Thank you for being here, and welcome to Shakespeare’s Italy! 

Max Marshall (he/him) is a Senior majoring in Theatre (Scenic Design and Technology Concentration). This is his fourth mainstage production with the Department of Theatre and Dance. Max was last seen on stage as Herr Schultz in Cabaret last spring. He also was the scenic designer for Violet this fall.

Arden McNeill (she/her) is a senior majoring in Theatre (performance) and minoring in Arts Management.  Her last performance with the college was Arts Under the Oaks, but this is her first official MainStage show and she’s so grateful for this opportunity! Arden has also worked behind the scenes on hair and makeup for Center Stage’s Rocky Horror Picture Show Shadow Cast (2021), and for their upcoming production of Five Women Wearing the Same Dress.

Mason Monti (he/him) is a senior majoring in Theatre with a concentration in performance. This is his fourth and final performance as a student actor in a mainstage production. He was last seen as Charles Bingley in Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley. 

Eli Salas (they/he) is a junior at the college studying Theatre with a concentration in scenic and light design and technology. They are the student sound designer for College of Charleston’s 2022-2023 season. He made his sound design debut with Center Stage’s 2021 production of The Swing of the Sea by Molly Hagan. They loved getting to work on this production and with its incredible cast, crew, and director. You can see his work next in CofC’s Marcus; or the Secret of Sweet by Tarell Alvin McCraney. He hopes you thoroughly enjoy the show!

Chris Waryznski (any pronouns) is a sophomore Theatre major with a performance and lighting/scenic double concentration with a minor in Japanese Studies. He has performed with the department of theatre and Dance in Cabaret (Siegfried) and Violet (Leroy). He also was the lighting designer for several pieces of Shifting Perspectives. He would like to thank Bea Lemaster, and his Nana for not evicting him. 

Sara Whitehead (she/her) is a senior majoring in Theatre with a concentration in Lighting Design. She has previously designed many dance pieces for the department as well as Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley. You can see her work in Becoming We, the student-choreographed dance concert later this semester.

Aidan Wunderley (she/they) is a sophomore Theatre major with a concentration in performance. Her other roles at the College of Charleston include Woman in A Sudden Spontaneous Event and Jess in The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) [Revised]. She was last seen as Brad in Center Stage’s Rocky Horror Picture Show. Aidan is excited to work with such a talented dog on this production!


Up next!

Join us for our last two shows of the season!
Subscribe to our newsletter so that we can keep you updated.

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Department of Theatre and Dance presents ‘Two Gentlemen of Verona’ by William Shakespeare

CofC Stages at the College of Charleston’s Department of Theatre and Dance presents the comedic treasure Two Gentlemen of Verona by William Shakespeare. 

Best friends Valentine and Proteus embark on different paths in life only to run into each other again when they both fall in love in Milan. Shakespeare’s investigation of friendship, love, faithfulness, and fickleness, Two Gentlemen of Verona takes us on a journey across Northern Italy, asking us, with wit, humor, and poignancy, to question the forces that bind us together and tear us apart.

Director Michael Smallwood adds, “Two Gentlemen of Verona, perhaps Shakespeare’s first play, is the Rosetta Stone for Shakespeare’s career. So many of his themes, theatrical conventions, plot details, and locations appear in their infancy here before being built upon in later plays. It is very appropriate for our talented students at CofC to explore this play, which isn’t about fairies and great tragic figures, but instead is about youth culture, about falling in love and being problematic, and about how people change for the better and for the worse.”

Recommended for all ages, performances of Two Gentlemen of Verona at the Chapel Theatre (172 Calhoun St.) will run February 22-March 2. Individual tickets are $20 for adults; $15 for seniors (60+), active military/veterans, and youth under 18; and $12 for CofC students, faculty, and staff.

Ticket link for the public

Ticket link for CofC students (for instructions & info click here)

Ticket link for CofC faculty/staff

or buy tickets in person at Sottile Theatre (Tue-Fri, 10am-4pm), by emailing gsbo@cofc.edu or calling (843) 953-4726.

Performance Dates:
February 22nd, 7:30pm
February 23rd, 7:30pm
February 24th, 7:30pm
February 25th, 2pm
February 25th, 7:30pm
February 26th at 2pm

February 28th, 7:30pm
March 1st, 7:30pm
March 2nd, 7:30pm

Two Gentlemen of Verona features students Kit Fischer, Mekhi Gaither, Mia Brady, and Carolina Magee in the principal roles. The student design team includes scenic designer Bristol Barnes, costume designers Brandon Alston and Molly Rumph, lighting designer Sara Whitehead, and sound designer Eli Salas. 
 
Director Michael Smallwood joined the adjunct faculty at the College of Charleston this semester, teaching playwriting and screenwriting. Smallwood is a professional film and stage actor, an award-winning playwright and filmmaker, and a core ensemble member at PURE Theatre. He directed CofC Stages’ production of Pipeline in the fall of 2021.
Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Student-run Center Stage Production Proof explores the impacts of mental illness and depression

David Auburn's ProofThe Department of Theatre and Dance would like to take a moment to acknowledge the hard work of our students! Center Stage at the College of Charleston opens its 2023 season with the Pulitzer Prize Winning play Proof by David Auburn.

Proof is set in the early 2000’s and follows Catherine, the brilliant daughter of a highly honored math professor at the University of Chicago. Catherine’s father, Robert, struggles with a debilitating genetic mental illness that forces her to put down her own studies and look after him. As his sole caretaker, Catherine too begins to question her own sanity. This is only made worse by the presence of her sister, Claire, who tries to push Cathrine towards seeking help. When Robert’s former grad student, Hal, finds an important proof that will revolutionize the field of mathematics in her father’s study, the question of its authorship is put to the test. This heartfelt family drama poses the question, “agency or complacency?” 

Directed by student Bristol Barnes, Proof features student actors Hunter Harrell (as Catherine), Madison Berry (as Claire), and Mitchell McHugh (as Hal), with CofC professor Todd McNerney (as Robert). The production’s design team features Ellie Ford (scenic design), students Mira Turkewitz and Katie Burns (costume design), Allison Jones (lighting design), and Joey Kirkman (sound design). Olivia Maness and Molly Crary serve as the production’s stage managers.

Center Stage is the only on campus theatre organization run entirely by students. Center Stage strives to be a place for everyone to have space to perform and express themselves through their art. From the entire board of Center Stage, thank you for attending this production and your continued support for our organization. We hope you enjoy the show!

DETAILS: Performances of Proof will take place January 27 & 28 at 7:30pm and January 29 at 2pm in the Calhoun Annex Chapel Theatre. Tickets are available at the link below and are free of charge.

Reserve your seats here

Learn more about the production

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment