Direction by

DARNELL PATRICK MORRISMusical Direction by

ARIELLE BAYERChoreography by

CARLY SCHWARTZ

Book by

DENNIS KELLY

Music & Lyrics by

TIM MINCHIN Orchestrations & Additional Music by Chris Nightingale

January17-192020

Hello and welcome to the opening production of OVATIONS JUNIOR COMPANY’s 2019/2020 season; our FIFTH ANNIVERSARY SEASON! We are so thrilled that you’ve joined us! For the past several months these very talented young performers have worked hard, not only to create this beautiful production, but have worked to become well rounded young performers. We’ve worked on creating fully-developed characters, identifying and understanding objectives, naming relationships and understanding subtext, among many other things. At OVATIONS, we treat our actors as a community of artists investing in everyone’s experience from ensemble to the title role. We pride ourselves on being an open, supportive, and inclusive group fostering young people into young adults. 

OVATIONS THEATRE, the leader of musical theatre education and performance opportunities in the DMV, has put together one of our biggest, boldest seasons yet featuring stories that encourage artistry, spark conversation, thought and dialogue, all while making art in a safe and open atmosphere; allowing our students to engage, inspire and empower. Do you want to build

a snowman? If so, you’ll want to join us next week for auditions for the JUNIOR COMPANY’s closing production of Frozen Jr. as part of our 2019-2020 FIFTH ANNIVERSARY SEASON . 

Back for the 5th summer, our Junior Summer Conservatory is a two-week workshop that gives the young aspiring musical theater student, grades 3-10, an in-depth experience in the world of musical theater. Students participate in classes and master classes, from 9AM to

4PM, weekdays from August 10-21, 2020. This program is designed for all young people; from the novice to the more experienced of young artists. At the end of the two weeks, students are given the opportunity to share their experiences in an informal class demonstration for family and friends with a showcase entitled Seize the Day featuring music from hit Broadway shows such as Newsies, Beetlejuice, Dear Evan Hanson, Mean Girls and many more. 

Make sure to check out our website at www.ovationstheatre.com for information on upcoming performances, auditions, master classes, summer programming and other performance opportunities for young artists. Sit back, relax and enjoy the show!

WELCOME

“ (an) open, supportive, and inclusive group fostering young people into young adults.”

“ ...making art in a safe and open atmosphere; allow-ing our students to engage, inspire and empower.”

Production NoteMatilda is a musical that follows an extraordinary girl surrounded by people who do not see her full potential. This all changes when she begins kindergarten at her new school and gains the support of the local librarian, Mrs.Phelps and her kind teacher Miss Honey. Along with her new school friends Lavender, Bruce, and the

rest of the revolting children. Together they must face a new terror, Agatha

Trunchbull. Matilda is determined to help these other kids even though she is also dealing with her overly eccentric parents at home. We have had the pleasure of watching these students take on this beautiful and slightly magical story, making it their own. 

Throughout the rehearsal process we have watched these performers create complex characters. Each student

has shown their full potential and love for theater through their hardwork and dedication to the roles. It has been a very interesting and educational experience to work with these young performers, as we are both performers ourselves. We both have grown from the Junior Company to the Senior Company, and the opportunity to work as production assistants has given us a new perspective on all the work that goes behind the scenes. We are very proud of all the students and their hard-work! We are very excited to see everything come together on stage. We hope you enjoy the captivating story of Matilda the Musical!

Danielle Carter & Peyton Aronow

Cast ListSingle Performance Cast Breakdown & Performance Schedule

1/17@7:30pm 1/18@2:00pm 1/18@7:30pm  1/19@1:00pm

MATILDA Anna Berkowitz Katie O’Connor Delaney Single Reina Fontanez

MISS HONEY Mia Rohan Kendall Aronow Sadie Schulman Ellie Regnell

LAVENDER Mia Sevillia Ella Arking Juliette Wade Nayla Bizri               

Double Cast Breakdown & Performance Schedule

RED CAST BLUE CAST

MISS TRUNCHBULL Josh Basit Ronan Mailhot

MRS WORMWOOD Abby Chesman Jordyn Zamoiski

MR WORMWOOD Jack Melton Mark Chen

MRS PHELPS Hannah Carter Cecilia Tello

RADOLPHO Aidan Eagle Jared Edwards

ESCAPOLOGIST Jared Edwards Aidan Eagle

ACROBAT Daniella Kulp Arielle Isaac

BRUCE Liam Darnell Zakariya Saberi    

RED CAST Friday, January 17 at 7:30pm &, January 18 at 2:00pm

BLUE CAST Saturday, January 18 at 7:30pm & Sunday, January 19 at 1:00pm

These Featured Roles Will Perform in All 4 Performances 

DOCTOR ...................................................................................................Stephen Goldstein

TOMMY......................................................................................................Jimmy McKinnon

NIGEL ..........................................................................................................Max Weiner

ALICE .........................................................................................................Ella Arking

HORTENCIA ...........................................................................................Phoebe Gordon

AMANDA ..................................................................................................Elena Schwartz

CLAIRE .......................................................................................................Paige Merten

VICTORIA .................................................................................................Brigid Mailhot

SAMANTHA ...........................................................................................Gemma Ferguson

Producing Artistic Director .........................................................Darnell Patrick Morris

Managing Director ............................................................................Morgan Fannon

Associate Artistic Director ............................................................Theresa Cunningham

Artistic Associate/Music Supervisor ......................................Mayumi Griffie

Music Director ......................................................................................Arielle Bayer

Choreographer ....................................................................................Carly Schwartz

Stage Manager .................................................................................... Jenna Ballard

Light Design ..........................................................................................Steven Barker

Sound Design .......................................................................................Isaac Craig 

Scenic Design/Master Carpenter ............................................James Raymond

Scenic Paint Charge .........................................................................Jordan Stocksdale

Set Builders ............................................................................................ Renan Auricchio, Eve Fredman, Cayden Raff, Matthew Rubin, Toly Yarup

Student Interns .................................................................................... Sammy Jungwirth, Matthew Rubin, Cayman Raff, Toly Yarup

Costume Design .................................................................................Darnell Patrick Morris

Videographer ........................................................................................Joel Richon

Season Photographer .....................................................................Traci J Brooks of Lock & Company

Season Graphic Designer .............................................................James Gallagher of Drama Queen Graphics

Special Thanks to JCC Kreeger Staff, WVU Theatre department, Ginger of Gene’s Costumes, Linda Swann, Eleanor Dicks and Kit Flaherty.

Production Staff

ACT 1Miracle ............................................................................................................................Full Company

Naughty .........................................................................................................................Matilda

The Acrobat Story Pt 1 ..........................................................................................Matilda, Acrobat & Escapalogist 

The School Song ......................................................................................................Full Company

Pathetic ..........................................................................................................................Miss Honey

The Hammer ..............................................................................................................Trunchbull & Company

Loud .................................................................................................................................Mrs. Wormwood & Company

The Acrobat Story Pt 2 .........................................................................................Matilda, Acrobat & Escapologist 

Bruce ...............................................................................................................................Full Company

There will be a brief 15 minute intermission

ACT 2Telly ...................................................................................................................................Mr. Wormwood & Michael

When I Grow Up ......................................................................................................Full Company

The Acrobat Story Pt 3 .........................................................................................Matilda, Acrobat & Escapologist

The Smell of Rebellion .........................................................................................Trunchbull & Company

Quiet ................................................................................................................................Matilda

My House ......................................................................................................................Miss Honey

Revolting Children..................................................................................................Full Company

Musical Numbers

Darnell Patrick Morris (Director & Producing Artistic Director) Founder & Producing Artistic Director of OVATIONS, has been a Director, Choreographer and Theatre Educator in the Washington, DC area for the past decade.  His students have been seen on Broadway, as well as many local professional stages including Signature Theatre, Arena Stage, Olney Theatre Centre, ATMTC, Wooly Mammoth and Ford’s Theatre. Select Directing Credits – OVATIONS: Next To Normal, Hair, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, The Wizard of Oz, Little Shop of Horrors, Mary Poppins Jr, Les Miserables: School Edition, Carrie, Andrew Lippa’s The Wild Party, Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR, The Addams Family Young@Part, Parade, Heathers, Hairspray JR, Sunday in The Park With George, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast JR, Spring Awakening, Rent, Into The Woods JR, Sweeney Todd and Seussical JR. Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre: In The Heights, Into the Woods, Avenue Q, Hairspray, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Stillpointe Theatre: Caroline or Change. Kensington Arts Theatre: Les Miserables, Ragtime, Jekyll & Hyde, The Rocky Horror Show. Awards: 2018 Ruby Griffith Award for In The Heights, City Paper 2015 Best Musical: Caroline, Or Change, 2014 Ruby Griffith Award for Les Miserables, 2013 Ruby Griffith Award for Avenue Q, 2012 Ruby Griffith Award for Hairspray, 2011 Ruby Griffith Award for The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, 2009 Ruby Griffith Award for Pippin, 2014 WATCH Awards for Best Choreography and Best Musical for Ragtime, 2014 Best Community Theatre Production of a Musical in DC on broadwayworld.com. In 2017 Darnell was selected as one of 6 up-and-coming DC area directors to participate in Signature Theatre’s Musical Theatre Young Directors’ Workshop. In 2017 Mr.Morris was chosen as one of 6 up-and-coming DC area directors to participate in Signature Theatre’s Musical Theatre Young Directors’ Workshop.   

Carly Schwartz (Choreographer) is delighted to be back with these amazing young performers. Previous OVATIONS productions: The Wizard of Oz, Disney’s Mary Poppins Jr and Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr. Previous choreography credits include: Dance Captain/Asst. Choreographer for Barnum, Chicago and Honk at Summer Theater Arts for Youth. She started her musical theater journey at 11 years old at the JCC of Greater Washington and doesn’t take this full circle moment for granted.

Theresa Cunningham (Associate Artistic Director) has taught theatre  with varied populations: public and private school students, residential psychiatric patients, homeless families, incarcerated teenage girls, “at-risk” youth, preschoolers, and the elderly. Baltimore-born Theresa Cunningham is an actor, singer, pianist, poet, playwright, musical director and teacher.  She attended Syracuse University where she studied musical theatre. She moved to Atlanta to perform and teach, before moving back to the DMV in 2012. Select DC area roles include: Arena Stage: Nina Simone: Four Women (Sarah); Round House Theatre: School Girls or  the African Mean Girls Play (Headmistress Francis), Caroline or Change (Washing Machine); Imagination Stage: Wiley and the Hairy Man (Mama); Stillpointe Theatre: Caroline or Change (Caroline); Compass Rose Theatre: A Raisin in the Sun (Lena); Olney Theatre Center: Once On This Island (Asaka); Riverside Center: Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Armelia); Toby’s Dinner Theatre: Les Miserables (Mme. Thenardier). Theresa won the 2013 Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress, Resident Musical for her portrayal of Sofia in Toby’s Dinner Theatre’s production of The Color Purple.    

James Raymond (Resident Scenic Designer) Earned his M.F.A. in Scenic Design and Technology as a graduate teaching assistant at West Virginia University this past May. He received his B.A. in Theater Technology and Design at DeSales University in Center Valley, PA in 2013. He has had many opportunities to work with all ages in both educational and professional theater settings.  James worked in Steamboat Springs, Colorado the summer of 2013 as the Scenic Designer at the Perry-Mansfield Performing Arts School and Camp. He also worked as the scenic artist for The Linny Fowler WillPower Tour’s production of Macbeth, along with scenic designer, six-time Emmy award winning Production Designer of Sesame Street, Bob Phillips. James had the opportunity to work with the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival, which is a professional Equity Lort C theatre company for two seasons. Last summer at West Virginia Public Theatre, he set designed You’re A Good

Production Bios

Man Charlie Brown and was the scenic artist for the past two seasons. Past credits: Three Sisters (set design, WVU), In The Heights (set design, ASGT), The Pirates Of Penzance (set design, WVU) The Trojan Women (set design, WVU), The Arabian Nights (set design, WVU), White Christmas (set design, LMP), Comedy of Errors (set design, LMP), Chess (set design, KAT), Underground (set design, Perry M.), Failure: A Love Story (set design, Perry M.), I Love A Piano (set design, DSU), 39 Steps (scenic artist intern, PSF) starring Steve Burns (Blues Clues), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (set design, LMP), Andrew Lippa’s The Wild Party (set design/ Oscar, LMP), 45 Seconds From Broadway (set design, LMP), No Exit (set design, Highwood Theatre), Sweeney Todd (props intern, PSF) starring Dee Roscioli (Wicked) and many others. www.jamesvraymond.com.

Production Bios

Ella Arking (Lavender, Alice), a 6th grader at the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School, is thrilled to be performing with OVATIONS THEATRE for the first time!!!  Past performances include the Young Kangaroo in Seussical (McLean Players), Tessie in Annie (Har Shalom Players), Grumpy in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (ATMTC), Lady Capulet in Romeo and Juliet (CESJDS Shakespeare Club), Titania in A Midsummer Night’s Dream (CESJDS Shakespeare Club) and many other school and camp performances. Ella takes voice lessons with Keith Tittermary.  “Thank you to Darnell and the whole OVATIONS team for giving me this amazing opportunity, my fellow castmates for making this such an awesome show, and a huge

thank you to my family for always supporting me!”

 Kendall Aronow (Miss Honey), a 9th grader at Sherwood High School, is very excited to be a part of this incredible musical with such a car-ing and talented cast and crew. Past performances include Glinda in Wizard Of Oz, Bird Woman in Mary Poppins Jr (OVATIONS THEATRE); Narrator in Beauty & the Beast Jr. (Blake Stage Company. Kendall takes voice with Melynda Burdette. “I am so lucky to have my friends and family in my life who have shown me so much love and support. If OVATIONS has taught me one thing, it would be to always keep persisting and just be yourself. I am incredibly grateful to have made such amazing, lifelong friends thanks to my second home here at OVATIONS THEATRE!”

Joshua Basit (Miss Trunchbull), 8th grade, is delighted to be in his first performance at OVATIONS Theater, which he has enjoyed immensely. Josh was firmly bitten by the acting bug when he was just eight-years old, playing Fred in The Flintstones at The Black Rock Center for the Arts, Summer Camp Program. Josh is now fourteen, and during the past two- summer camp seasons at Imagination Stage, Josh played Van Hussler in Mary Poppins Jr., in one summer, and Tonton Julian in Once on this Island in the next. Josh is a student at Martin Luther King Middle School in Germantown, where beyond his continued presence on the honor roll with a 4.0 grade average, he grabs Boba tea with his friends; is never without his sketch pad, plays cello in the

orchestra, and dabbles with the Ukulele and the guitar. 

Anna Berkowitz (Matilda), a 6th grader at Westland Middle School, is so happy to be in this fantastic musical! Past performances include Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, Flounder in The Little Mermaid Jr , Ensemble in Hairspray Jr (OVATIONS THEATRE); Jojo in Seussical the Musical, Wicked Witch/Storyteller/Dulocian in Shrek, the Musical, Jr , Jack in Fee, Fi, Fo, Fum!, and Cheetah in It’s a Jungle Out There (Adventure THEATRE & ATMTC).  Anna is an ATMTC Academy Pre-Pro-fessional Company Member and she studies voice with Lisa Shaw.

“Thank you, Darnell, the OVATIONS Team, and all of my fellow castmates. I love being a part of this awesome family!”     

Nayla Bizri (Lavender), a 4th grader at Snowden Farms Elementary School, is excited to perform in her second show with OVATIONS THEATRE. Her most recent performance with OVATIONS was City Fa-ther 1 and Munchkin in The Wizard of Oz. Outside of THEATRE, she’s a Girl Scout, plays basketball and softball, and has a passion for the arts. Nayla would like to thank her family and friends for their support throughout this experience.  

Cast Bios

Hannah Carter (Mrs.Phelps) is a 6th grader at Julius West Middle School. She is very excited to perform in such a fun and upbeat show! Past performances include: Doorman in The Wizard of Oz, Catie Nan-na in Mary Poppins Jr, Seahorse in The Little Mermaid Jr, Ancestor in The Addams Family Young@Part (OVATIONS THEATRE); Orphan in Oliver! (Richard Montgomery HS); Soloist in GPS, and Becca in Unplugged (Redland BC). She wants to thank her friends, family, cast, and directors for their support! 

Abby Chesman (Mrs. Wormwood), is a 7th grade student at the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School.  She is very excited to be in her fifth show with OVATIONS. Past performances include: Miss Gulch/Wicked Witch in The Wizard of Oz Jr., The Chairman in Mary Poppins, Jr., Sailor/Sea Creature in The Little Mermaid Jr., Ancestor in the Addams Family Jr. (OVATIONS); Villager in Once on This Island (Imagination Stage); as well as numerous showcases with Imagination Stage and Adventure Theater. She takes voice lessons with Theresa Cunningham. “I would like to thank my parents for being supportive, Darnell, Theresa, and Carly for helping me grow, and my friends for coming to support me!”

She has enjoyed being part of this amazing cast! Break Legs, everyone!

Mark Chen (Mr. Wormwood), is in the 8th grade at Cabin John MS.  Past OVATIONS performances include the Wizard in The Wizard of Oz, Flotsam in The Little Mermaid, and ensemble roles Les Miserables, Addams Family, and Hairspray Jr. Mark has also appeared in Willy Wonka, Jr. (Cabin John MS), and with the HS Players in The Music Man, Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and Annie.  He studies voice with Dorothy Miller.  Mark loves being part of the

OVATIONS family, and thanks Darnell for the opportunity!

Liam Darnell (Bruce), a 7th grader at Pyle Middle School, is thrilled to be part of this amazing show! Past performances include Michael Banks in Mary Poppins, Jr., Flounder in The Little Mermaid Jr. (OVA-TIONS THEATRE); Young Simba in The Lion King, Jr. (Theater Unlim-ited DC); Benedick in Much Ado About Nothing (Imperial Shake-speare Presents), and Young Arthur in Excalibur: The Story of Young King Arthur (Pyle Middle School). In addition to chocolate cake, Liam enjoys playing piano, writing stories, and singing. Liam would like to

thank the entire OVATIONS production team for their guidance and encouragement, and his family for their constant support. Enjoy the show!

Aidan Eagle (Rodolpho/Escapologist), a 6th grader at Pyle Middle School, is thrilled to be a part of this terrific musical.  Matilda is Aidan’s first OVATIONS THEATRE production but he has performed as Aladdin in Aladdin and in the ensembles in Schoolhouse Rock and Bannockburn to Broadway (all Bannockburn Elementary School productions.)  He also enjoys sup-porting his neighborhood by appearing in the past three Bannock-burn Community Spring Shows.  When not onstage, Aidan spends his time with his teammates from his baseball, basketball, and swim teams. He loves the support he receives from his grandparents, parents, and siblings.  He thanks them and the cast and crew from OVATIONS THEATRE for making this such a fun experience.

Cast Bios

Jared Edwards (Rodolpho/Escapologist), a 7th grader at Cabin John Middle School (CJMS), is excited to be working with OVATIONS THEATRE in this production. Past performances include High School Musical Junior at CJMS (Ryan), the OVATIONS THEATRE 2019 Junior Summer Conservatory, and It’s a Wonderful Life at Northwest HS while in elementary school (Tommy). He also is a member of the CJMS Show Choir and has also taken hip hop and Musical Theater dance classes at Dawn Crafton’s Dance Connection. He appreciates the support of the cast and directors of OVATIONS THEATER for this opportunity to perform.

Gemma Ferguson (Samantha) a 3rd grader at College Gardens Ele-mentary School, is so excited to be part of Matilda. This is Gemma’s third production with OVATIONS. Previous performances include Les Miserables and The Wizard of Oz. She also studies dance on a competitive dance team. Gemma us thrilled to be part of Matilda! Gemma thanks her family and friends for believing in her and en-couraging her to perform and sing!

Reina Fontanez (Matilda) is in 5th Grade at Rachel Carson Elementary School. This is her third year as a member of OVATIONS THEATRE. During this time, she has enjoyed playing the part of The Wizard in The Wizard of Oz, Neleus in Mary Poppins Jr., Jetsam in The Little Mermaid Jr, an ancestor in Addams Family Young@Part and the Sugar Plum Fairy in Shrek the Musical. In addition to her love for acting and singing, Reina also loves cooking, playing her saxophone, drawing and jiu jitsu.

Stephen Goldstein (Doctor), a 7th grader at Julius West MS, is very eager to return to his 3rd OVATIONS show. Past performances include Von Hussler/Policeman in Mary Poppins, Jr. and Ensemble in Little Mermaid, Jr. (OVATIONS); Knight in Once Upon a Mattress (JW Drama Club). When he’s not performing, he’s creating stories, drawing, and listening to music. “Thanks to Darnell & the OVATIONS staff for teaching me new things every day. Thanks to my loving family & everyone who came out to support me. Break legs, everyone!”

Phoebe Gordon (Hortencia) is a 6th grader at Norwood School. She is thrilled to be performing in Matilda, her first OVATIONS THEATRE production. Prior performances include Jasmine in Aladdin Jr, Ensemble in Schoolhouse Rock, Ensemble in Bannockburn to Broadway (all Bannockburn Elementary School pro-ductions), and Colonel Hathi in Jungle Book Jr (Imagination Stage). She also enjoys playing soccer, swimming, and hanging out with family and friends. She wants to thank her family for their love and support and the cast and crew for making this production possible.

Arielle Isaac (Acrobat) is a 6th grader at Takoma Park Middle School. She is eleven years old and has done one previous show with OVATIONS THEATRE, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. She has been in several choruses and is currently in one at her middle school. She loves the Harry Potter boom series and is a cat lover. Ari also plays piano and has been doing it for 4 years now.

Cast Bios

Daniella Kulp (Acrobat), a 6th grader at Pyle MS, is absolutely thrilled to be in Matilda, one of her favorite musicals. Past performances include Ensemble in Seussical, Mrs. Finkleton in Thwacked (ATMTC Academy); Scout in How to Escape the Sky (Imagination Stage), Kate in Annie (Way-Off Broadway Theater); and Snail in A Year with Frog and Toad and Jaime in Wish Upon a Dream (Holton Arms). She studies voice with Deborah Benner. “Sending love to my family for all their support and thanks to the OVATIONS team and my amazing castmates for this incredible experience!”

Brigid Mailhot (Victoria), a 4th grader at McLean School, is looking forward to her second production playing Victoria! Past performances include roles as Lullaby League and a Flying Monkey in The Wizard of Oz (OVATIONS). “A huge thank you to my amazing family!”

Ronan Mailhot (Miss Trunchbull), a 6th grad-er at McLean School, is eager to tackle the role of The Trunchbull! Past performances in-clude The Cowardly Lion in The Wizard of Oz, Michael Banks in Mary Poppins Jr, Gavroche in Les Misérables (OVATIONS); Young Ebenezer in A Christmas Carol and the ensemble for Mary Poppins (Walter Johnson S*T*A*G*E*). “Thanks, Mom, Dad and Brigid!

Paige Merten (Claire/Ensemble), a 7th grader at Westland Middle School, is thrilled to be giving her second performance with

OVATIONS THEATRE. Past performances include Wicked Witch in The Wizard of Oz (OVATIONS), Horace in the Doctor in Spite of Himself, Saturninus in Titus Andronicus, Leonato in Much Ado About Nothing and Olivia in Twelfth Night (Imperial Shakespeare Presents); Lord Far-quaad in Shrek The Musical (Westbrook Elementary); Neono in Atum’s Eye and Nike in Ariadne’s Thread(Traveling Players Ensemble). Paige is a member of Standing O, takes voice with Jacquelyn Mouritsen at The International School of Music and dance at Imagination Stage. She thanks her family, friends, and cast members who have been so supportive during the process of the show.

Jimmy Mckinnon (Tommy), a 6th grader at St. Jane de Chantal, is thrilled to be in another wonderful production with OVATIONS! Past credits include Gavroche in Les Miserables, and The Cowardly Lion in The Wizard of Oz (OVATIONS). A big thank you to his chauffeur, Lilly McKinnon, and all the friends and family who came to see Matilda!

Jack Melton (Mr. Wormwood) is a 9th grader at Walter Johnson High School and is very excited to be in such a fun musical. Previous credits include Tinman in The Wizard of Oz, Robertson Aye in Mary Poppins (OVATIONS

Theaters); Chip US in Beauty and the Beast, Camera Operator in The Great All American Musical Disaster, Part of the Lollipop Guild in The Wizard of Oz, and Kasun in Twisted Tales of Terror (Tilden MS Drama Club). He is super excited to be a part of his third OVATIONS Show.

Cast Bios

Katie O’Connor (Matilda), a 6th Grader at Thomas Pyle Middle School, is thrilled to be able to take part in the OVATIONS Theater production of Matilda. This is her first OVATIONS production, but has had the privilege of being a part of other productions including: the part of Genie in Aladdin (Bannockburn Elementary); Polyhymnia in Hercules, Interplanet Janet in School House Rock and Frog in A Year with Frog and Toad (Holton Arms Creative Summer); Sir Galahad in A Connecti-cut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court ( Adventure THEATRE MTC) and sev-eral others. When Katie isn’t on the stage, she enjoys drawing, soccer, basketball and hanging out with her friends and family. She would like to thank her family for the endless support, the cast and all the adults that have given their time to make sure this show as awesome as it is! Enjoy the show!

Ellie Regnell (Miss Honey), a freshman at Wootton High School is so excited to be in her fourth production with OVATIONS! Past experi-ences include Glinda in The Wizard of Oz, Mrs Brill in Mary Poppins, and Adella in The Little Mermaid (OVATIONS THEATRE). She takes voice with Cheryl Stafford and would like to thank everyone for their amazing support and encouragement!

Mia Rohan (Miss Honey), a freshman at Sherwood High School, is so happy to be returning to the OVATIONS stage. Her past performances include Frau Gabor in Spring

Awakening, Mary Poppins in Mary Poppins (OVATIONS), Rona in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Alice Beineke in Addams Family Young @ Part (OVATIONS); Glinda in Wizard of Oz (Sherwood); Eponine in Les Miserables School Edition (DLC), (OVATIONS). Mia studies voice with Dorothy Miller and would like to thank her for a great year. She would also like to thank Darnell and the OVATIONS family for this opportunity and her friends and family for always being

there for her!Zakariya Budiani Saberi (Bruce) is a 6th grader at Pyle Middle School and is elated to be in this OVATIONS production of Matilda. Zaki has played the role of Aladdin in Aladdin (Bannockburn Elementary School), a company performer with A Class Act New York (Broadway) as well as musical vocals, piano, guitar, trombone and acroyoga performances in schools, performance halls and coffee shops. Off stage, Zaki is a competitive diver, basketball player, parkour athlete, naturalist, mathematician, roboticist and comedian. Zaki especially thanks his family and friends for supporting him!

Sadie Schulman (Miss Honey) a 7th grader at Holton-Arms School, is thrilled to be part of OVATIONS THEATRE.  Past performances include: Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz, Jane in Mary Poppins, Pugsley The Addams Family, ensemble in Hairspray and Madame D’Arque in Beauty and the Beast (OVATIONS THE-

ATRE). Sadie studies voice with Stan Dunn and dance at C Unit.

Elena Schwartz (Amanda), an 8th grader at Hallie Wells M.S., is excited to be perform-ing in one of her favorite shows. Recent performances include Young Kangaroo in Seussical (Rockville Musical THEATRE); Annie in Annie Jr., Penelope in Bye Bye Birdie, Young Nala in The Lion King Jr., and in the ensemble of Beauty and the Beast(Da-mascus THEATRE Company). Offstage pursuits include baking and painting. Thanks to the OVATIONS team and huge hugs to her family.

Cast Bios

Mia Sevillia (Lavender), a 2nd Grader at Bradley Hills Elementary, is over the moon to be a part of this spirited, funny and playful musical. This is Mia’s first formal theater experience. She has been delighting her friends and family with impromptu shows and skits since she was very young.  Mia is a member of the OVATIONS Junior Company and participated in the OVATIONS Camp this past Summer. “Thank you to my fellow cast members, Director and OVATIONS Instructors for this unforgettable experience!!” 

Delaney Single (Matilda) is a 7th grader at Silver Creek Middle School. She is excited to

be performing in her 7th OVATIONS production. Past performances include Nikko in The Wizard of Oz, Jane Banks in Mary Poppins, Chef Louie in The Little Mermaid, Pugsley in The Addams Family, ensemble in Hairspray and ensemble in Beauty and the Beast (OVATIONS) as well as other productions. Delaney would like to thank her family and friends for all their support.

Cecilia Tello (Ms. Phelps), a 6th grader at Thomas Pyle Middle School, is so excited to be in her first OVATIONS production! Past performances

include: Carter in How to Escape the Sky, Charli in The Pencil is Might-ier (Imagination Stage Speak out on Stage Conservatory); Manal in Aladdin (Imagination Stage), Mayor in RATS!, Captain Smollet in Trea-sure Island, Ensemble for Mary Poppins (Imagination Stage); Malefi-cent in Sleeping Beauty, Queen in Cinderella (Adventure THEATRE). Cecilia is a member of the STANDING_O Performance Ensemble with OVATIONS and the Rounding’s Improv Troupe with Roundhouse THEATRE. She takes voice lessons with Gori Voice Studio and dance (including jazz, hip hop, tap, modern and ballet) at Joy of Motion. “Thank you, Darnell, for your fabulous direction and to everyone who made this musical possible. Enjoy the show!”

Juliet Wade (Lavender) is a 5th grader at Westbrook Elementary School and is thrilled to be performing in Matilda. Past performances include: Nikko and the Munchkin Mayor in Wizard of Oz, Nelius in Mary Poppins (OVATIONS THEATRE); Sleeping Beauty in The Hundred Year Snooze, Cinderella in Return of the Glass Slipper (Adventure THEATRE); and voice of Lucy McGee in the Lucy McGee book series. Juliet is excited and proud to be part of another OVATIONS production!

Max Weiner (Nigel) is a 4th grader at Wyn-gate Elementary School. He is super excited to be making his debut at OVATIONS. Outside of the theater, Max is a competitive climber and enjoys baking. Max is so appre-ciative of all his friends and family who are coming to see the show. He is grateful for OVATIONS THEATER.

Jordyn Zamoiski (Mrs. Wormwood), an 8th grader at Julius West Middle School is thrilled to be part of this fun musical. Her past performances include: Ensemble in Lit-

tle Shop of Horrors, Gavroche in Les Miserables, Grandma in Addams Family, Prudy in Hairspray Jr., Babette in Beauty and the Beast Jr., Cat in the Hat in Seussical Jr., Fawn Fairy/Antina Mermaid in Peter Pan Jr., Frau Schmidt in Sound of Music Jr., ensemble roles in Cinderella Jr., Annie Jr. (Bravo Productions); ensemble in Mary Poppins (Wootton High School). “Many thanks to my family and friends for all of your love and support!!”

Cast Bios

AIDAN EAGLE Keep believing the whole world is your stage. We

love watching you perform!

XOXO, The Whole Fam

Congratulations Liam and the cast and crew of Matilda!We are so proud of you!

Love, Mom, Dad, Cameron, and Spencer

“The Doctor Is In”

Break a leg in Ovations

appearance #3!

Love, Mom, Dad, Jeremy, and the penguins

Josh – Congrats on your first production at Ovations Theater! We love to watch as you pursue and accomplish your goals!

We love you dearly and are proud of you every day, just for who you are – both in and out of the spotlight!Love, Mom, Dad & Jake

You are talented, amazingly kind, funny and intelligent.

We love you Ari!Mom, Dad and Alex

Congratulations Anna and the entire cast and crew of Matilda!

“Even if you’re little you can do a lot, you Mustn’t let a little thing like ‘little’ stop you.”

Your story is yours to dream and create, Anna! We love you so much and are so proud of you!

Lots and lots of love, Mama, Mom, Lauren and Caroline

Mia, you shine from the inside out. We are so proud of you! Congratulations to you and the entire cast of Matilda!

Magical. Mischievous.Miraculous.THAT’S YOU!

We are soproud of you!Break a leg!

Mom, Dad, Geoffrey, Ryan & Fozzie

Gemma,We are always so proud of you!

Mom, Dad, Brayden & Lyla

NaylaKeep chasing

your dreams till they become

your reality.

You’re a gift! We love you

and are so proud of you!

Daddy, Mommy, Rafic, Nanny,

PopPop, MeMa, BaBa, Delia,

and Teddi

You will always “Bee” our sweetest Miss Honey! So proud of all your accomplishments!Love, Mom, Dad and Jilly

ELLA, We are so proud of you!

Keep following your dreams! “Musn’t let a little thing like little stop you!!”

Love,

Mommy, Aba, Alex, Vivi, and Zack

ELLA - We are so proud of you! Keep following your dreams!“Musn’t let a little thing like little stop you!!”Love, Mommy, Aba, Alex, Vivi, and Zack

We Love You!!xoxox

Mommy, Daddy & Jake

Jordyn,You’re Our Shining Star!

Your Dreams Will Take You Very Far!

Dear Juliet,We’ve always loved you in lavender!XOXO, M, D, O, C & L

…

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GOOD LUCK JACK! WE LOVE YOU!

Mom, Dad, Matthew, Caroline, Luke, and Scout

Good luck, Jack! We love you!!Mom, Dad, Matthew, Caroline, Luke and Scout

Phoebe, you are always up for adventure and keep life fun. With love forever and always,Mom, Dad, Myles, Shelby, and your adoring extended family

So proud of our actors, Ronan and Brigid!Love, Mom and Dad

Congratulations and break a leg, Paige!

We LOVE watching you do what you love to do. Never give up on your

dreams! We’re SO proud of you!

XOXO,Mom & Dad

“Nobody but me is gonna change my story.”And what a story you are creating! WE are BEYOND proud of you.We adore you Reina! Love – TEAM REINA

Max Weiner—

Congrats on your Off-Broadway debut as Nigel. We are so proud of you!Mom, Dad, Ben and Eli

Excited to see Max and the Ovations cast perform! Jo and Paul Weiner

Congrats to Max and the whole cast! Alan and Ileen Kessler

ENGAGE, INSPIRE, AND EMPOWER

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Spring AwakeningSENIOR COMPANY

December 6, 7 & 8, 2019

MatildaJUNIOR COMPANY

January 17, 18 & 19, 2020

Cabaret (1998 Revival Version)SENIOR COMPANY

March 6, 7 & 8, 2020

Frozen JrJUNIOR COMPANY

April 24, 25 & 26, 2020

Into The Woods JrSTANDING_O

May 16, 2020

RagtimeSENIOR COMPANY

June 12, 13 & 14, 2020

2019-2020 Season

ovationstheatre.com

OVATIONS THEATRE offers inspiring and thought-provoking educational and performance opportunities for young musical theatre artists. Our learning environment supports creativity and open-mindedness, dedication and focus, individual expression, and ensemble teamwork. Along with singing, dancing, and acting, our young people build confidence, problem-solving skills, and strong friendships. They gain the fundamentals they need to blossom on-stage and off as they work together to create memorable—and magical—experiences for themselves and their audiences.OU

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