MUSIC BY MARVIN HAMLISCH LYRICS BY CRAIG CARNELIA

NYU STEINHARDT
MUSIC AND PERFORMING ARTS PROFESSIONS
MUSIC AND PERFORMING ARTS PROFESSIONS
NYU Steinhardt’s Department of Music and Performing Arts Professions was
established in 1925. Since that time, Steinhardt Music and Performing Arts Professions
has functioned as NYU’s “school” of music and developed into a major research and
practice center in music technology, music business, music composition, film scoring,
music performance practices, performing arts therapies, and the performing arts-ineducation (music, dance, and drama). Today, 1,500 students majoring in renowned
music and performing arts programs are guided by 300 faculty. Our degree programs—
baccalaureate through Ph.D.—share the Steinhardt School’s spirit of openness and
innovation that encourages the pursuit of high artistic and academic goals. Our rich
and varied expertise and interests bring performance majors and composers together
with choreographers, directors, actors, dancers, educators, librettists, and filmmakers
in collaborative projects often reviewed by the New York media. Faculty sit on leading
journal editorial boards and publish some of the most significant performing arts
research on the scene today. Coupled with leading faculty and advanced studios
in music technology and a nationally recognized program in music business, our
Department and the Steinhardt School offer an unparalleled environment for artistic,
professional, and scholarly challenge and growth.
We recognize that in addition to substantial training in individual specializations, our
graduates require multiple skills and broad experiences to pursue a successful and
fulfilling career. We encourage students to take courses and to interact with faculty
across traditional programmatic and Steinhardt School lines. In addition to these
multiple university synergies, our campus is surrounded by and blends into the world’s
capital and center of the performing arts, New York City. This location enables us to
draw upon the greatest artists in the world and allows our students to build networks
and take advantage of abundant professional opportunities. We broaden our music
students’ education with options to study abroad at NYU campuses in Prague and
Florence which offer full music curricula. Alumni have moved on to major performing
careers and have secured coveted professional positions in the music industry as well
as faculty and administrative positions in colleges, conservatories, and universities
throughout the world. Prominent graduates include jazz great Wayne Shorter, multiple
Tony award winning music theatre composer Cy Coleman and lyricist Betty Comden,
multiple Oscar winning film composer Elmer Bernstein, conductor and composer
Tania Leon, music technologist Enoch Light, and Tony Award, Oscar and Pulitzer
Prize-winning playwright and film writer John Patrick Shanley.
Robert Rowe, Director
Program in Vocal Performance and
NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts
Present
SEPT
4,
R 12–1
EMBE
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MUSIC BY MARVIN HAMLISCH
LYRICS BY CRAIG CARNELIA
BOOK BY JOHN GUARE
BASED ON THE NOVEL BY ERNEST LEHMAN AND
THE MGM UNITED ARTISTS MOTION PICTURE
NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts
566 LaGuardia Place (at Washington Square)
New York, NY
MUSIC AND PERFORMING ARTS PROFESSIONS
Program in Vocal Performance
UPCOMING EVENTS
how to purchase tickets:
online: www.nyu.edu/ticketcentral/calendar
by phone: 212 352 3101 or 866 811 4111
in person: 566 LaGuardia Place at Washington Square South
hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 12noon-6pm
Voices á la Carte
New Student Cabaret
Provincetown Playhouse,
133 MacDougal Street
Admission: $5
Black Box Theatre,
82 Washington Square East
Admission: Free
November 15 at 8pm
November 16 at 3pm & 8pm
Tickets available at the box office beginning
90 minutes before the show.
See What I Wanna See
Words and Music by Michael John LaChiusa
Based on Short Stories by Ryunosuke Akutagawa
as Translated by Takashi Kojima
October 4 at 8pm
October 5 at 3pm and 8pm
October 6 at 3pm
~
An Evening
of
Chamber Opera
Night Caps: Contemporary
Opera Scenes
October 18 at 8pm
October 19 at 3pm and 8pm
October 20 at 3pm
Black Box Theatre,
82 Washington Square East
Admission: $15 general, $5 students/seniors
December 6 at 8pm
December 7 at 3pm & 8pm
December 8 at 3pm
~
Oh What a Lovely War
November 1 at 8pm
November 2 at 3pm and 8pm
November 3 at 3pm
For complete listing and calendar of Departmental Events, please visit
our website at www.steinhardt.nyu.edu/music
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THE CAST
NYU STEINHARDT ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
Program Director - Vocal Performance ..................................... William Wesbrooks
Production Manager ............................................................... Alix Claps
Technical Director/Theatre Supervisor .................................... Shuhei Seo
Assistant Technical Director/Lighting Supervisor ..................... Nancy Valladares
Scene Shop Supervisor ........................................................... Sylviane Jacobsen
Costume Shop Supervisor ...................................................... Michelle Humphrey
Assistant Stage Managers......................................................... Jordan Aanrud, John Fitzpatrick,
Michael King, Javi Romero
Assistants to the Choreographer .............................................. Drew Berezowitz, Livie Casto
Dance Captain ....................................................................... Sophia Sapronov
Assistant Music Director/Keyboard Programming .................... Eric Kang
Assistant Music Director/Rehearsal Piano ................................ Steven Cuevas
Assistant Costume Designer .................................................... Ashley Sweetman
Hair and Makeup Designer ..................................................... Marissa Mancini
Backstage Crew ...................................................................... Ben Bartels, Hayley Biegel, Hayley
Jackowitz, Sadie Keljikian, Nathan
Morgan, Jake Satterfield, Emily
Senkowsky, Chrissy Vogric
JJ Hunsecker .......................................................................... Zach Monroe
Sidney Falcone ....................................................................... Donald Coggin
Susan .................................................................................... Jane Kivnick**
Dallas .................................................................................... Jarrad Biron Green
Rita ....................................................................................... Delaney Parker
Madge/ Ensemble ................................................................... Gracie Nash
Blue Angel Press Agent/ Ensemble .......................................... Drew Carr
Billy Van Cleve/ Priest/ Ensemble ............................................ Stephen Eckelmann
Congressman/ Otis/ Ensemble ................................................ Jon Friestedt
Abigail Barclay/ Show Girl/ Ensemble ...................................... Sophia Sapronov
Tony/ Ensemble ..................................................................... Curtis Reynolds
Pregnant Woman/ Linda/ Show Girl/ Ensemble ....................... Clare Bohrer
Pepper White’s Escort/ Ensemble............................................ Josh Greenblatt
Charlotte/ Ensemble ............................................................... Kaylee Verble
Senator/ Ensemble ................................................................. Andreas Bongard
Officer Kello/ Ensemble .......................................................... Alex Hunnell
Club Zanzibar Singer/ Ensemble ............................................. Nik Saboo
Stage Manager/ Ensemble… ................................................... Dan Coombs
Bobo/ Ensemble ..................................................................... Rachel Womble
Cathedral Soloist/ Ensemble ................................................... Taylor Johnson
Show Girl/ Ensemble.............................................................. AnnMarie Powers
Show Girl/ Ensemble.............................................................. Heather Stinson
Administrative Assistants- Production Office ............................ Joe Concesion, Carrie Gabbert,
Emily Neuberger
Program Design ..................................................................... Chris Cantley
Photography .......................................................................... Chianan Yen
Photograph of Marvin Hamlisch by Len Prince ©2012
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Mary Brabeck – Dean of the Steinhardt School, Tom Beyer, Joe Bongiorno, Courtney Bowe, Ebs
Burnough, Edward Carlson, Craig Carnelia, Deborah Damast, Peter Delaney, Julie DeSarbo, Tom
Doczi, Ernie Green, Ingrid Green, Terre Blair Hamlisch, Amber Hunnicutt, Joann Kane, Lynn Kolk,
Barbara Kotlikoff, William Naugle, Marilyn Nonken, Dave Schroeder, Naomi Tarantal
PRODUCTION
Director ................................................................................. John Simpkins*
Music Director ....................................................................... Caleb Hoyer
Choreographer ....................................................................... MK Lawson
Scenic Design ........................................................................ Michael Schweikardt
Lighting Design ..................................................................... Chris Dallos
Costume Design ..................................................................... Michelle Eden Humphrey
Sound Design ........................................................................ Craig Kaufman
Properties Master ................................................................... Zach Longstreet
Production Manager ............................................................... Alix Claps
Production Stage Manager ...................................................... Christina M. Hagan**
*
The Producers wish to thank tdf Costume Collection for its assistance in this production.
This production uses the Contract Management Program of the University/Resident
Theatre Association, Inc. (212) 221-1130.
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**Appears courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association
3
THE BAND
Caleb Hoyer, Conductor
Reed I.................................................................................... Philip Varricchio
Reed II .................................................................................. Nick Mula
Reed III ................................................................................. Rob Jacoby
Reed IV ................................................................................. Anna Morris
Trumpet I .............................................................................. Dustin Beardsley
Trumpet II ............................................................................. Talitha Cook
Horn ..................................................................................... Kaitlyn Lipka
Trombone I ............................................................................ Karl Lyden
Trombone II .......................................................................... Casey O’Neill
Trombone III ......................................................................... Joseph Samuels
Cello...................................................................................... Emirhan Runca
Bass ....................................................................................... Pat Swoboda
Drums ................................................................................... Sean Perham
Percussion ............................................................................. Brandon Nestor
NYU SKIRBALL CENTER
Executive Producer ......................................................................L. Jay Oliva
Executive Director........................................................................Michael Harrington
Executive Assistant to Dr. Oliva .....................................................Patrice Fealy
Operations Director .....................................................................Amy Coombs
Assistant Director, Marketing and Communications ........................Donald Webster
Production Manager .....................................................................Jason Adams
Manager, Ticket Services ..............................................................Lori Moore
Business Manager.........................................................................Liz Olson
Development Communications Manager .......................................Kimberly Olstad
Front of House Manager ...............................................................Ian Tabatchnick
Assistant Box Office Manager ........................................................Dawud Jackson
Administrative Coordinator ...........................................................Barbara C. Espinoza
Head Audio Technician ................................................................Ethan Bade
Head Lighting Technician ............................................................Jeffrey Collier
Associate Lighting Technician .......................................................Angie Golightly
Company Manager .......................................................................Chelsea Gold
Assistant House Managers...........William Burke, Adam Kreiselman, Yvonne Rigby, Molly Roberson
Head Ushers ..............................Mindy Baucicot, Shawn Belpanno, Josh Blye, Evelyn Cruzatte,
Amara Dieter, Ryan Hamelin, Coleen Jasinski, Jamie Kingston,
Michelle Kuchuk, Katelyn Manfre, Jennie McGuinness, Julie Regula*,
Paul Sanguino, Spencer Young
Ushers .......................................Julia Deutsch*, Mahliesia Douglas, Olivia Dunn*, Carson Grubb*,
JW Guido*, Kyle Klaski*, Melissa Mahoney*, Jefferson Reardon*,
Steffany Polanco*, Alison Wein*
Box Office Staff ..........................Kaylee Alexander*, Jared Arcari*, Morgan Block*, Alison Durkee*,
Abigail Garcia*, Mara Goodman*, Tacha Joseph*, Sean Lee*, Amanda
McLoughlin*, Ayden Rosenberg*, Marco Santarelli*, Amalia Schiff *,
Pavlina Schriel*, Anoush Shirzadegan*, Felicity Wilberg*, Keanar Yee*
Administrative Assistants ..............................................................Tracey Jacqueline Jordan-Greenidge*,
Hannah Klein*, Amanda McLoughlin*,
Alison Wein*
Education Associates ....................................................................Maria Soledad Sklate*
Keyboard I ............................................................................. Steven Cuevas
Marketing Assistants.....................................................................Lauren Z. Adleman*, Kathleen
McFarlane*, Olya Mikhaliova*
Keyboard II ........................................................................... Eric Kang
Press Representatives ...................................................................Blake Zidell & Associates and
NYU Office of Public Affairs,
John Beckman & Richard Pierce
Graphic Design ............................................................................object collective
NEW YORK UNIVERSITY
President ............................................................................... John Sexton
Provost .................................................................................. David McLaughlin
Executive Vice President......................................................... Michael Alfano
Executive Vice President, Operations ...................................... Alison Leary
Vice President, Auxiliary Services............................................ Robert Kivetz
*Denotes NYU Student
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(Alan), It’s a Wonderful Life (George), Company (Paul), The Most Happy Fella (Dance Ensemble/Jake),
Songs for a New World (Man 2), and Best Little Whorehouse in Texas (Aggie). He would like to thank
the cast, crew, creative team, and administration for this wonderful experience. He sends love and
gratitude to his family and friends.
Alix Claps (Production Manager) is excited to be in her sixth year with the Program in Vocal
Performance. In New York she has worked on the National High School Musical Theatre Awards
(aka Broadway or Bust on PBS), the Chicago 10th Anniversary Production, The Black Suits, Things to
Ruin, The New Fangled Variety Show, Howard Katz and innumerable BC/EFA and other charity events.
Regionally, she has stage managed at Music Theatre of Wichita, Ogunquit Playhouse, Theater By The
Sea, the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, Surflight Theatre, and Mac-Haydn Theatre. Alix holds a
BTA from the University of Michigan and a MA from DePaul University, and is currently pursing her
JD at Rutgers School of Law - Newark. www.alixclaps.com
Christina M. Hagan (Production Stage Manager) is thrilled to be returning for her third year with
NYU (City of Angels, Fiorello!, Street Scene, The Most Happy Fella, Sweet Smell of Success). She is also
the Production Stage Manager for Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre (Oliver!, King Lear, Much Ado About
Nothing, A Midsummer Night’s Dream). Christina has worked several contracts with the National Tour
of Billy Elliot, and has also toured with the Radio City Christmas Spectacular Arena Tour. She holds a
B.F.A. in Theatre Design and Production from the University of Michigan. Additional regional credits
include productions at the University of West Florida, Theatre by the Sea, Heritage Theatre Festival,
and North Shore Music Theatre. Christina was also a representative of the United States as the PSM
for Lorca in a Green Dress, which was produced as part of the Apostrof Theatre Festival in Prague,
Czech Republic. Much thanks to her family for their continual love and support, and for forever, Go Blue!
~
NYU SKIRBALL CENTER
The Jack H. Skirball Center for the Performing Arts is the premier venue for the presentation of
cultural and performing arts events for New York University and lower Manhattan. Led by executive
producer Jay Oliva (President Emeritus, NYU) and senior director Michael Harrington, the programs
of the Skirball Center reflect NYU’s mission as an international center of scholarship, defined by
excellence and innovation and shaped by an intellectually rich and diverse environment. A vital aspect
of the Center’s mission is to build young adult audiences for the future of live performance. www.
nyuskirball.org
INVEST IN THE FUTURE
The Skirball Center’s ability to continue providing affordable ticket prices, presenting high-quality
and innovative performances, supporting exciting young artists and developing new audiences for the
future of live performance relies on the generous support of our friends.
Sweet Smell of Success
place: New York City
time: 1952
SYNOPSIS OF SCENES AND MUSICAL NUMBERS
ACT I
“The Rumor” .......................................................................... JJ, Sidney & Ensemble
“I Could Get You in JJ” ............................................................ Sidney
“I Cannot Hear the City” ......................................................... Dallas
“Welcome to the Night” ........................................................... JJ, Sidney & Ensemble
“Laughing All the Way to the Bank” .......................................... Club Zanzibar Singer
“At the Fountain” ..................................................................... Sidney
“Psalm 151” ............................................................................ JJ, Sidney
“Don’t Know Where You Leave Off ” ........................................ Dallas, Susan
“What if ” ................................................................................ Susan & Ensemble
“For Susan”............................................................................. JJ
“One Track Mind”................................................................... Dallas
“I Cannot Hear the City” (Reprise) ........................................... Dallas
“Act One Finale” ..................................................................... Ensemble
~ Intermission ~
ACT II
“Break it Up”........................................................................... JJ, Sidney & Ensemble
“Rita’s Tune”........................................................................... Rita
“Dirt” ..................................................................................... Ensemble
“I Could Get You in JJ” (Reprise) ............................................. Sidney
“That’s How I Say Goodbye”................................................... Susan, Dallas
“Don’t Look Now” .................................................................. JJ & Ensemble
“At the Fountain” (Reprise) ...................................................... Sidney, Ensemble
“Finale” .................................................................................. JJ, Susan, Sidney & Ensemble
Consider making a gift today, become a Friend of the Skirball Center and influence the future of the
performing arts. Contributions are welcome through our website or checks made out to ‘NYU Skirball
Center’ can be mailed to 60 Washington Square, Suite 503, NY, NY 10012.
SWEET SMELL OF SUCCESS is presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH, INC.
The videotaping or other video or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited.
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CAST BIOGRAPHIES
Clare Bohrer (Ensemble) is a second year Masters Candidate in the Program in Vocal Performance
and Vocal Pedagogy, studying in the studio of Matthew Shepard Smith. She was last scene on stage
at NYU as Gabby/Bobbi in City of Angels. She is honored to be a part of this incredible ensemble and
such an exciting production!
Andreas Bongard (Ensemble) is a second year Masters Candidate in the Program in Vocal
Performance, studying music theatre in the studio of Prof. Michael Ricciardone. He received his BFA
in musical theater from the Folkwang University of the Arts, Essen, Germany. There he appeared
professionally as Claude in Hair, Dick in High Fidelity (European Premiere), Dusolleil in Amour
(German Premiere) and Rodney Hatch in One Touch of Venus. Other regional credits include
Schroeder in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown and Radames in Aida. As a soloist he has been
involved in CD and TV productions and his versatile concert activities have brought him to several
countries, including China.
Drew Carr (Ensemble) is a sophomore in the Program in Vocal Performance, studying in the studio of
Dan Lawler. Drew is thrilled to be a member of his second NYU Steinhardt company, a show written
by his all-time favorite, the late, great Marvin Hamlisch; Drew made his NYU Steinhardt debut his
freshman year in City of Angels (dir. John Simpkins) as the character Sonny. Some of his favorite roles
include Malcolm in Hollywood Arms (Dir. Carol Burnett), Jasper in I Am Grock (Dir. Neil Patrick
Harris), Scuttle in The Little Mermaid, and he was privileged to be a member of the Original Cast
Recording of a new work, Vote! The Musical. Film and television credits include Criminal Minds, Great
Expectations, and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. He is a proud SAG member.
Donald Coggin (Sidney) is a junior in the Program in Vocal Performance, studying music theatre in
the studio of Matthew Shepard Smith. Most recently, he was seen in All the Kids are Doing It (Chris)
and the Players’ Club production of Urinetown: The Musical (Cladwell).
Dan Coombs (Ensemble) is a senior in the Program in Vocal Performance, studying music theatre in
the studio of Jeremy Aye. Dan has recently appeared in Damn Yankees and Spamalot at the TriArts
Sharon Playhouse. At NYU Dan has performed in West Side Story with Tisch New Theatre as Diesel,
Die Fledermaus, 4@15: The Latest Thing, and 4@15: Casual Bob. He would like to thank his family,
friends, and teachers for all of their support throughout the years. Huzzah!
Stephen Eckelmann (Ensemble) is a senior in the Program in Vocal Performance, studying music
theatre in the studio of Dr. Scott Murphree. Past NYU Steinhardt credits include All the Kids... (Eric),
Fiorello! (Ensemble), and Celebration (Ensemble). Regional credits include Spamalot (Sir Galahad)
and Oklahoma! (Curly McLain). Stephen hails from the lush green land of Portland, OR. Thanks to my
family, friends near and far, and 11B06. Rip City!
Jon Friestedt (Ensemble) is a senior in the Program in Vocal Performance, studying music theatre in
the studio of Matthew Shepard Smith. Past roles at NYU include Dr. Mandril in City of Angels, Jack
in Into the Woods and The Lecturer in Reefer Madness, as well as participation in 4@15 at the York
Theatre and Forbidden NYU. Jon can also regularly be found performing as a cast member in the NYC
Rocky Horror Picture Show shadow cast. He’d like to thank his loving parents, as well as every friend
and family member who has supported him over the years.
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Michael Schweikardt (Scenic Design) has designed the world premiere of Nobody Loves You and of
the new Duncan Sheik/ Kyle Jarrow musical Whisper House at San Diego’s Old Globe Theatre. He
also designed the sets for several musicals by Joe Iconis: Bloodsong Of Love at Ars Nova, ReWrite at
Urban Stages, The Black Suits at The Public Theater, The Plant That Ate Dirty Socks for Theatreworks
U.S.A., and Things To Ruin at both The Zipper Factory and Second Stage. Recent credits include
ELLA, a musical about jazz legend Ella Fitzgerald which is appearing in cities all across the country,
the critically acclaimed productions of Carousel, Showboat, Annie Get Your Gun, 1776, Big River and
Camelot for Goodspeed Musicals, Barnum for The Asolo Rep’s 50th anniversary season, Oklahoma!
starring Kelli O’Hara and Will Chase celebrating The Oklahoma State centennial, the American
premiers of Frank McGuinness’ Gates of Gold and The Bird Sanctuary and National and International
Tours of James Taylor’s One Man Band. Regional credits include The MUNY, St. Louis Rep,
Cincinnati Playhouse, Pittsburgh Public Theater, Papermill Playhouse, Shkaespeare Theater of New
Jersey, Sarasota Opera, Bay Street Theater, The Guthrie, Cleveland Playhouse, among others. Online
portfolio: www.msportfolio.com
Chris Dallos (Lighting Design) has designed 14 musicals for NYU Steinhardt. His design work spans
theatre, corporate environments and architectural projects. He recently completed the re-lighting of
the interior of the Landmarked Riverside Church in Manhattan. He has lit everyone from James Taylor
to Jay-Z; Uta Hagen to the shows of Joe Iconis; Meg Whitman to Eric Schmidt. Major corporate
clients include Google, MillerCoors, Starwood, HP, IBM, Walmart and Hilton. See his work at www.
dallosdesign.com
Michelle Eden Humphrey (Costume Design) has recent credits including Gershwin Review,
Spamalot, 13 The Musical, Doubt, Next Thing You Know, They’re Playing Our Song, Damn Yankees,
Alter Boyz, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Rent, The Wedding Singer (TriArts Sharon Playhouse
- Resident Designer), Man of La Mancha (The Shakespeare Theater of NJ), Academy (Maltz Jupiter
Theater, NYMF TBG Theater and Daegu International Musical Festival in Korea), Oklahoma! (Ohio
Northern University), A Wonderful Life, Damn Yankees (John Engeman Theater), 42nd Street, Man
of La Mancha, Nunsense, California Suite (Plays in the Park), The Uninvited, Let Him Sleep (Brea
Theater League), and The NJ Renaissance Festival. NYC Credits include The Bus (59E59), Dally
with the Devil (Theater Row), Ghostlight (NYMF Signature Theater), Bloodsong of Love, Joe Iconis
Christmas Spectacular (Ars Nova), Caesar and Cleopatra (Theatre Row), ReWrite (Urban Stages),
Things to Ruin (Le Poisson Rouge, Second Stage & The Zipper Factory), The Black Suits (SPF The
Public Theater), Miss Kim (45th St Theater), King David (NYU Steinhardt). Michelle worked on
Madonna’s Girlie Tour and worked with Elvira Mistress of the Dark for many years. She has also
designed several musicals, new works and operas and is the Costume Shop Supervisor for the Vocal
Performance Department at NYU Steinhardt. michelleedenhumphrey.com
Craig Kaufman (Sound Design) is an Iowa native who received his degree in theatre from Simpson
College in Indianola, Iowa. He began his career working full time as a designer and engineer at the Des
Moines Playhouse in 2004. Recent sound design credits include The Black Suits (SPF at the Public
Theatre); Mornings at Seven, two Headed, The Pilgrim Papers, and My Pal George at The Berkshire
Theatre Festival; and Chicago, Beauty and the Beast, Seussical the Musical, Forever Plaid, and Hello,
Dolly! among others at The Des Moines Playhouse.
Zach Longstreet (Properties Master) is a proud alumnus of the NYU Steinhardt Program in Vocal
Performance. He is frequently employed as a carpenter / scenic artist / production assistant with The
Public Theater, including their productions of Here Lies Love, Giant, Wild with Happy, Into the Woods,
and As You Like It. Zach also works in the prop-building world on occasion. His props can currently
be seen in The Irish Repertory Theater’s production of Donnybrook and, recently, he was the Co-Prop
Master for City of Angels presented by NYU Steinhardt. Theatre credits as an actor: Babes in Toyland
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PRODUCTION BIOGRAPHIES
John Simpkins (Director) directed the Off-Broadway productions of Bloodsong of Love (Ars Nova – 3
Drama Desk nominations), Things to Ruin (director/ co-conceiver – Second Stage, Joe’s Pub), ReWrite
(Urban Stages) and The Plant That Ate Dirty Socks (Theatreworks, USA- Lucille Lortel Theatre) – all
written by Joe Iconis. This fall, he will direct Iconis’ The Black Suits at the Kirk Douglas Theatre
(Center Theatre Group) in LA. He also directed the Off-Broadway play The Bus at 59E59 Theatres.
Regional credits include The Black Suits (Barrington Stage); Hairspray (North Carolina Theatre);
Damn Yankees and A Wonderful Life (John W. Engeman Theatre); Annie and Cabaret (Sacramento
Music Circus); Evita (Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma); They’re Playing Our Song, Altar Boyz, The
Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Rent, A Funny Thing…Forum and The Wedding Singer (Sharon
Playhouse). New Works include All the Kids are Doing It (Thomas/ Contreras); ReWrite (Goodspeed
Opera House); Hellraisers (Barrington Stage); Ripper (NAMT); Pool Boy (Tsakalakos/ Allard);
Next Thing You Know (Berkshire Theatre Festival, Sharon Playhouse); Party Come Here (Goldfarb/
Kirshenbaum); Go-Go Beach (NYMF – 37 Arts); Queen Esther (Merkin Hall); You Don’t Know Jack
(York Theatre). John is Artistic Director at the Sharon Playhouse and a member of the music theatre
faculty at New York University Steinhardt - where he has directed City of Angels, The Fix, Floyd Collins,
Kiss of the Spider Woman, Violet, Urinetown, Merrily We Roll Along, Parade, Fiorello! and A New Brain.
His production of Parade was preserved and is on reserve at Lincoln Center’s Theatre on Film and
Tape Archive. Current projects include The Black Suits (Joe Iconis), The Legend of NY (Salzman/
Cunningham), and Adultolescence (Stephen Barnett). www.john-simpkins.com
Caleb Hoyer (Music Director) is a composer/lyricist originally from Pittsburg, KS. He wrote book,
music, and lyrics for Nightfall, and co-wrote Dance Moms: The Musical, recently featured on the
Lifetime series, with Kevin Michael Murphy. He has presented two concerts of his music at The
Laurie Beechman Theatre, as well as a concert of his work for the New York Theatre Barn. He has also
worked extensively as a music director, arranger, and accompanist. Credits include They’re Playing Our
Song, Celebration, Little By Little, Children of Eden, Company, Baby, Smile, and First Odd Prime. He
co-conceived (with MK Lawson), music directed, and arranged One Step Closer: The Music of Alan
Menken. Concert credits include Unsung Menken, Once Upon A Time In New York City, Too Legit To
Quit, Moments With Ravi, Melanie Field – Goodbye For Now, Jay Armstrong Johnson at Birdland, and
many more. He is the founding music director of the acclaimed concert series If It Only Even Runs A
Minute (Bistro Award) as well as the weekly open-mic night The Village Gate’s Old-Fashioned Piano
Party, which ran for almost two years at Le Poisson Rouge. He is also the recipient of the Alan Menken
Award for his musical theatre writing. He holds a degree in Music Theory and Composition from New
York University.
MK Lawson (Choreographer) has been working as a choreographer, director, and actor in and around
New York for the last five years. In the last two years she has provided choreography for a number of
productions including RENT, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, and The Wedding Singer, and
most recently The Winter Wonderettes for the new opening of the Ocean State Theatre Company.
For NYU: Fiorello!, Fantasy Football: the Musical?, Baby, Carmen, Sweet Smell of Success, The Most
Happy Fella and the New York premiere of The Fix (at NYU). As a director/choreographer, MK has
staged productions of Celebration, Smile and Bat Boy: the Musical. MK has also directed a number of
concerts and staged readings including new works by Will Reynolds, Caleb Hoyer, and Joshua Cohen.
MK directed, choreographed, and co-conceived the original revue One Step Closer: the music of Alan
Menken and last summer conceived and directed a concert entitled Unsung Menken (which will play
a repeat performance at 54 Below next month!). MK appears around NYC in concerts and such with
her favorite group of artist- friends, and was most proud to be a part of the original cast of Drama Desk
nominated Bloodsong of Love (by Joe Iconis) which ran in 2010 at Ars Nova.
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Jarrad Biron Green (Dallas) is a senior in the Program in Vocal Performance, studying music theatre in
the studio of Dr. Scott Murphree. Past credits include Damn Yankees, West Side Story, Altar Boyz, and
the NYC premiere of Pool Boy. He will spend this upcoming year performing as Tony in the national
tour of West Side Story! He is also a proud member/beat-boxer of the a cappella group the NYU
N’Harmonics. He would like to thank his parents for their constant support, his friends for their love,
and John, Caleb, MK, and Christina for all their hard work putting this show together!
Josh Greenblatt (Ensemble) is a sophomore in the Program in Vocal Performance, studying in the
studio of Michael Ricciardone. He is thrilled to be under Prof. Simpkins’ direction again, having
worked with him at TriArts Playhouse in Altar Boyz (Mark), and All the Kids… (Jack). Here at NYU he
has performed in 4@15 (Christian), Urinetown (Bobby Strong), and Children of Eden (Yonah). Other
favorite credits include Spring Awakening (Georg), Les Miserables (Marius), Suessical (The Cat), La
Cage Aux Folles (Chantal), Grease (Doody), The Producers, The Wedding Singer, The Light in the Piazza,
and Damn Yankees. Shout out to all the people whose love and support have gotten me here; I love you. 43!
Alex Hunnell (Ensemble) is a senior in the Program in Vocal Performance, studying in the studio
of Michael Ricciardone. Alex is so excited to be a part of this show. Productions at NYU Steinhardt
include: City of Angels (Pasco/Gaines), Fiorello!, The Most Happy Fella (Clem), The Sweet Smell of
Success, and 4@15- Hoarder Patrol; also with NYU Renegade theatre: A New Brain (Roger), and First
Stages as a featured soloist. Also, Alex recently was a part of a new recording with the musical team
Salzman and Cunningham. Thanks to everyone involved!
Taylor Johnson (Ensemble) is a sophomore in the Program in Vocal Performance, studying classical
voice in the studio of Scott Murphree. A native of Oregon, she has performed with the Oregon
Symphony and the Portland Opera, and can be heard on multiple Pink Martini recordings. She was seen
last year in NYU Steinhardt’s New Student Cabaret, as well as Tisch New Theatre’s production of West
Side Story. She is excited and honored to be up on the Skirball stage again, and thanks her family for
their support.
Jane Kivnick (Susan) is a senior in the Program in Vocal Performance, studying music theatre in the
studio of Christine Reimer. Previous NYU Steinhardt credits include Children of Eden, Fiorello!, City
of Angels, and All the Kids are Doing it. With Tisch, Jane appeared with Tisch in The Girl Who Was
Plugged In, True Love, and This Property is Condemned, and with NYU Renegade Theatre in A New
Brain, The Wild Party and Zanna, Don’t! She performed in various new works at the Williamstown
Theatre Festival and spent a season at TriArts Sharon Playhouse, during which she portrayed Lola in
Damn Yankees. She thanks John, Caleb and MK for their amazing work on this production and for their
guidance and love throughout her years at NYU. Congratulations to this talented cast and crew!
Zach Monroe (JJ Hunsecker) is a second year Masters Candidate in the Program in Vocal Performance,
studying music theatre in the studio of Michael Ricciardone. Zach received his bachelor’s degree in
Vocal Performance at Vanderbilt University. Prior to attending NYU, he was selected to perform in
master classes under the direction of performers such as Audra McDonald and Stephanie Blythe. He
was also a member of the Young Artists Vocal Program at the Tanglewood Institute. Past performance
credits include Beauty and the Beast (Beast), Messiah (Tenor Soloist), and a concert version of Les
Miserables (Marius). A special thanks to all family and friends for their love and support.
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Gracie Nash (Madge) is a senior in the Program in Vocal Performance, studying musical theatre in
the studio of Christine Reimer. Gracie has recently been seen in The Players Club production of
Urinetown as Penelope Pennywise, and in NYU Steinhardt’s production of 4@15 as Abby. Gracie was
a member of the apprentice company at the Williamstown Theatre Festival in the summer of 2012,
where she worked with Lewis Black and was seen in the premiere of Mary Kate Olsen Is In Love. Big
thanks to my friends and family for their endless love and support!!
Delaney Parker (Rita) is a sophomore in the Program in Vocal Performance, studying music theatre
in the studio of Anna Winthrop. Last fall, she was delighted to make her NYU Steinhardt debut in the
New Student Cabaret and is thrilled to be a part of Sweet Smell of Success. Recent roles include: Marian
(The Music Man), Cinderella (Into the Woods), and Miss Dorothy (Thoroughly Modern Millie). Delaney
would like to thank her parents, sister, and friends for their endless support. She would also like to
thank her dedicated professors and peers for their encouragement.
AnnMarie Powers (Ensemble) is a junior in the Program in Vocal Performance, studying music theatre
in the voice studio of Anna Winthrop. She is beyond excited to be a part of her third show at Skirball,
including The Most Happy Fella and Fiorello! She would not be at NYU doing what she loves without
the enormous support of her parents Micky and Tom Powers, family and friends. Thank you to the
amazing cast as well. Enjoy the show!
Curtis Reynolds (Ensemble) is a junior in the Program in Vocal Performance, studying music theatre
in the studio of Paul Speiser. A native Nebraskan, Curtis has been seen at NYU in Godspell (Jesus),
Urinetown (Hot Blades Harry/Old Man Strong), Matchmaker, Matchmaker I’m Willing To Settle
(JDate), Fiorello!, and Children of Eden. Other credits include Urinetown (Bobby Strong), Dirty Rotten
Scoundrels (Freddy Benson), Beauty and the Beast (LeFou), Edges, and most recently La Cage Aux
Folles (Jean-Michel) in Aptos, California, for the Cabrillo Stage Company.
Kaylee Nicole Verble (Ensemble) is a junior in the Program in Vocal Performance, studying music
theatre in the studio of Dr. Scott Murphree. She was most recently seen at TriArts Sharon Playhouse
in Damn Yankees, They’re Playing Our Song, and Spamalot. At NYU, Kaylee has performed in
Urinetown, Fiorello!, and Children of Eden. Regional credits include Hairspray (Shelley), Camp Rock
(Tess), Pirates of Penzance (Sister), Seussical (Bird Girl), Beauty and the Beast (Dancer), Hello Dolly
(Ensemble), and White Christmas (Swing) at the Cumberland County Playhouse. Other favorite roles
include Hairspray (Amber), Annie (Lily St. Regis), Seussical (Gertrude), Bye Bye Birdie (Kim), and
State Fair (Emily Arden) at various venues across Tennessee. Special thanks to Mom, Dad, Scott, and
all of the fantastic people involved in this production. kayleeverble.com
Rachel Womble (Ensemble) is a second year Masters Candidate in the Program in Vocal Performance,
studying music theatre in the studio of Michael Ricciardone. She completed her undergraduate degree
in vocal performance at Rice University in Houston, Texas. She finished her time there playing Eve in
The Apple Tree. Rachel is a Texas native, but is having a blast here in the big city! At NYU Steinhardt
she has been seen in Beguiled Again: The Songs of Rodgers and Hart under Director Dallett Norris, and
most recently as the femme fatale Alaura Kingsley in City of Angels under Director John Simpkins. In
2011, she had her professional debut with the LOOK Musical Theatre Company in Tulsa, Oklahoma,
where she performed Philia in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum and Dainty June in
Gypsy. She spent this summer with Texas Family Musicals performing in two new shows about the lives
of Roy Orbison and Red Skelton. It was a great summer, but she is thrilled to be back in NYU’s Sweet
Smell of Success!
Nik Saboo (Ensemble) is a junior in the Program in Vocal Performance, studying music theatre in the
studio of Paul Speiser. He has recently appeared in the NYU Steinhardt workshop of All The Kids Are
Doing It (Drew) at The Provincetown Playhouse. Nik has also performed in Steinhardt main stage
musicals The Most Happy Fella (Dance Ensemble) and Fiorello! (Frantic Man/Ensemble). He also
appeared in the Players Club workshop of Matchmaker, Matchmaker I’m Willing To Settle (Match.
com). Outside of NYU Steinhardt, you can see Nik perform with the co-ed a cappella group, The NYU
N’Harmonics (nharmz.com), or shredding the streets of New York City on his longboard. He gives
thanks to his loving family and friends. Enjoy!
Sophia Sapronov (Ensemble) is a senior in the Program in Vocal Performance, studying music
theatre in the studio of Dr. Scott Murphree. Previous NYU Steinhardt credits include City of Angels,
Fiorello!, The Most Happy Fella, and Sweet Smell of Success (2011). In March 2013, she played Maria
in the Tisch New Theatre production of West Side Story at the NYU Skirball Center. Regional credits
include Thea in Fiorello! (The Gary- The Olivia) and Shelley in Hairspray (TriArts Sharon Playhouse).
She thanks Mom, Dad, John, Caleb, MK, Christina, the cast, the crew, and the NYU Steinhardt Vocal
Performance family for all they do!
Heather Stinson (Ensemble) is a senior in the Program in Vocal Performance, studying music theatre
in the studio of Kimberly Gill. Recent NYU credits include Urinetown (Hope), 4@15: The Latest
Thing, Fiorello! (Cutie/Striker), The Most Happy Fella (Ensemble), and the New Student Cabaret. She
would like to thank her parents and grandparents for being her biggest fans.
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