SHOW ARCHIVE
2023

Stage 1 Theatre presents
INTO THE WOODS JR.
Lyrics and music by Stephen Sondheim and book by James Lapine.
Be careful what you wish for, as Stephen Sondheim’s and James Lapine’s cockeyed fairytale comes to life in this adaptation of their groundbreaking, Tony Award-winning musical. Into the Woods JR. features all of your favorite characters — Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack (and his beanstalk) and the Witch — in this lyrically rich retelling of classic Brothers Grimm fables.
August 18 – 27, 2023
Douglas Morrison Theatre
22311 N 3rd St.
Hayward, CA
ACT 1
Opening
Ensemble
Cinderella at the Grave
Cinderella, Cinderella's Mother
Hello, Little Girl
Wolf, Little Red
Underscore After Hello Little Girl
Rapunzel, Witch, Baker, Baker's Wife
I Guess This Is Goodbye/Maybe They're Magic
Jack, Baker's Wife, Baker
Rapunzel
Rapunzel, Witch
Baker's Reprise
Baker
I Know Things Now
Little Red
A Very Nice Prince
Cinderella, Baker's Wife
Running time is 1 hour with a 15 minute intermission
ACT 2
Giants in the Sky
Jack
Agony
Cinderella's Prince, Rapunzel's Prince
Rapunzel's Reprise
Rapunzel
It Takes Two
Baker, Baker's Wife
Stay With Me
Witch
On the Steps of the Palace
Cinderella
The Potion
Milky White, Witch, Baker, Jack, Mysterious Man
Finale
Florinda, Lucinda, Cinderella's Stepmother, Steward, Narrator, Ensemble
Curtain Music
Witch, Ensemble
CAST
(In alphabetical order)
Liliana Anaya
Rapunzel
Siena Anaya
Cinderella's Stepmother
Hudson Blaha
Jack
Kyle Brown
Cinderella's Prince
Cozette Calderon
Witch
Berlin Exley
Little Red
Rene Exley
Cinderella
Mark Jay "MJ" Julio
Wolf
Sophia Leiner
Jack's Mother
Oceana Matsumoto
Magic
Cynthia Ortiz
Baker
Hannah Oviatt
Baker's Wife
Rachel Ann Ristau
Granny
Everest Roush
Cinderella's Father
London Roush
Narrator
Venice Roush
Lucinda
Adrian Ruiz
Rapunzel's Prince
Luna Ruiz
Florinda
Aaron Sorci
Steward
Danielle Sorci
Mysterious Man
Hannah Sorci
Milky White
Sofia VanRod
Cinderella's Mother
CREATIVES
Noelle Wilder
ASL Consultant
Lorraine VanRod
Director
Jamari McGee
Assistant Director
Patricia Pitpitan
Producer
Rocky James Concepcion
Vocal Director
Traci Colon
Choreographer
Annamarie Matthews-Hussey
Production Designer
Stage 1 Legacy Crew
Set Designer
Danielle Ferguson
Lighting Designer
Liz Nelson
Costume Designer
Robert A. Ramirez
Sound Designer
Magnus Whitaker
Properties Designer
CREW
Stephanie Kara
Stage Manager
Layla Malacara
Assistant Stage Manager
Ronnie Castaneda
Sound Operator
Cordelia Willis
Sound Assistant
Stephanie Kara
Projection/Sound Operator
Layla Malacara
Projection/Sound Operator
Shaneen Black
Light Operator
Cordelia Willis
Deck Crew
Production Interns
Shaneen Black
Directing Intern
Layla Malacara
Stage Management Intern
Ronnie Castaneda
Sound Design Intern
Biographies
Cast

Liliana Anaya (Rapunzel) is 13 years old and is starting 8th grade. She loves to dance and sing. She also enjoys reading, swimming, writing, and playing piano. Her past favorite role was a Seagull in Little Mermaid Jr. (Stage 1 Theatre) and she continues the passion for musical theater. Liliana thanks you for coming to the show and is so excited to share this journey into the woods with you!

Siena Anaya (Cinderella's Stepmother) is 11 years old and is starting middle school. She loves to sing, with anyone and everywhere, in the car, in her backyard, and even in the shower. Siena also enjoys playing sports, reading, playing piano, and playing board games. Her favorite past roles include Little Anna in Frozen (Starstruck mini musical) and a Tentacle/Fish in Little Mermaid Jr. (Stage 1 Theatre). Siena is thrilled to perform in Into the Woods Jr.! Thank you for coming! Now, it's time to go to the festival!

Hudson Blaha (Jack) is 10 years old and thrilled to be back on the stage in his first major role! He was seen in Little Mermaid Jr. four years ago, and a high school production of Cheaper by the Dozen where he played the youngest sibling. Into the Woods has been a favorite musical of his for the past couple years, and playing the part of Jack is a dream come true! He’s also excited to be reunited with several of his friends from previous shows. Hudson enjoys reading, outdoor adventure, and Lego. He wants to thank his friends and family for all their support and encouragement along the way!

Kyle Brown (Cinderella’s Prince) is 18 and will be attending UC Davis this year. He has been in multiple shows for Newark Memorial highschool. His favorite role was Wadsworth from CLUE: On Stage! He wishes you have a fun journey into the woods!

Cozette Annemarie Calderon (Witch) has appeared in several theater productions, undertaking varied roles ranging from Scar in the Lion King to Benjamin in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (in spoken English and ASL), and has been in print-ads for companies like Costumes Ink and Pottery Barn. She is appearing in an upcoming series entitled ’ME’, where she plays a CODA named Lilly. Cozette is Hard of Hearing and a native ASL signer—a skill she is excited to share with you in her present role.

Berlin Exley (Little Red) is 13 years old and has been acting with Stage 1 Theater since she was 5! She loves all of her friends, family, and the cast for helping her with her songs, reminding her of the blocking, and reteaching her the dances. She has done shows with Newark Memorial Highschool, Starstruck, and of course, Stage 1! This has been one of her favorite productions to work on with the cast and crew. She hopes you enjoy the show, and that you love it as much as she has loved preforming in it!

René Exley (Cinderella) is 16 and going into her senior year. A few of her previous shows include Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat with Stage 1, and Snow White the Melodrama (Snow White) and Clue (Yvette) with Newark Memorial Drama. Outside of the theater, she can be found running with the cross country team or reading with her cats. She hopes you enjoy the show and all the work this group has put into it!

Marc Jay “MJ” Julio (Wolf) is a junior at Kennedy High School. Although he is more of a gym bro, he loves theatre because he can be whoever he wants to be. Besides theatre, he loves weightlifting, sports, photography, and playing instruments. This is his first ever musical and he can’t wait to play Wolf in Into the Woods Jr. The one thing he loves more than anything is a nice, juicy medium-rare ribeye steak.

Sophia Leiner (Jack's Mother) is in 8th grade, and this is her first performance with Stage 1. Her interests include singing, fantasy books, and of course, musical theater. She is thrilled to be a part of Stage 1 's production of Into the Woods Jr.!

Oceana Matsumoto (Magic) will be a third grade student at California School for the Deaf, Fremont this fall. She has been acting in the film industry, and this is her first performance with Stage 1. Aside from acting, she also enjoys horseback riding, video gaming, and drawing. It is her goal to pursue a career in acting in the future. She is grateful for the support she receives from her teachers, friends, and family members. Due to the fact that it is her first time performing on stage, she is nervous, but she is very excited to meet everyone. Enjoy the show!

Cynthia Ortiz (The Baker) Is very excited to perform their debut production with Stage 1. Previously she has portrayed Harry Potter in Puffs, or "Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic" with Kennedy High School. She is very honored to be able to play the Baker. She is very thankful for all the support along the way from cast ,crew and family. She hopes you enjoy the show !

Hannah Oviatt (Baker’s Wife, Dance Captain) is excited to perform her first show with Stage 1. Some of her favorite past roles include: Hannah/Ginny in Puffs (JFK High School Theater), Ensemble in Les Miserables (Starstruck), and Ensemble in Matilda (Starstruck). She wants to thank the cast and crew for their hard-work and support. Enjoy the show!!

Rachel Ristau (Granny) is sixteen years old and is ecstatic to be in her first Stage 1 production. You may have seen her in a plethora of NMHS Drama productions such as Mrs. Peacock in CLUE and Bossy in Snow White. Thank you to Stage 1 for allowing her to grow these past few months and her friends and family for supporting her. Enjoy the show!

Everest Roush (Cinderella's Father) is loving his time with Stage 1 Theatre and is thrilled to play Cinderella’s Father. This is Everest’s second show this summer (and EVER!) so he is quickly learning what it takes to memorize lines, dance in sync with his castmates, and have fun on the stage.

London Roush (Narrator) is sooo excited to be back with Stage 1 Theatre! As Narrator, London has had the opportunity to challenge her acting skills and create a role all her own while telling a fantastic story. When she is not performing for the audience, she enjoys playing lacrosse, skateboarding, surfing, playing the French horn, learning guitar, and hanging out with her family and friends. She has had the opportunity to play Flounder in The Little Mermaid, Jojo in Seussical, and various supporting cast for community and high school theater. She is thrilled to bring you her passion for theater and hopes you LOVE the show!

Venice Roush (Lucinda) is honored to have the chance to work with Stage 1 Theatre again. As Lucinda, Venice is learning how to use her voice in new ways and have fun with a villainous character. When not entertaining audiences, she enjoys making videos, dancing, playing lacrosse and basketball, making music on her trumpet, swimming, singing her heart out, and being outdoors to connect with the animals and nature around her. She has had the opportunity to play as part of Children’s Choir in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and School of Fish/Ursula's tentacles in The Little Mermaid Jr. Venice hopes you LOVE the show!

Adrian Ruiz (Rapunzel's Prince) is very happy to be in Into the Woods Jr. He is very prepared to be the best prince out there. He has been in several NMHS productions: Dreamcast as Shrek and in Clue as The Cook. He is very excited for what will come out of this Musical. He wants to thank Stage 1 for the opportunity that they gave him to be Rapunzel’s prince.

Luna Ruiz (Florinda) is extremely excited to be in her first Stage 1 show. She LOVES pickles and enjoys baking. Luna would like to thank Ms. Shaneen Black for helping her, her "sister" Venice, and her "mother" Siena, get in character. Luna can't wait to see how her hard work paid off in the show!

Aaron Sorci (Steward) is so excited to go ‘Into the Woods’ this summer in his Stage 1 debut! His favorite past role was Bruce in Matilda with StarStruck Theater. He would like to thank the cast and crew for making this an amazing show. He would also like to thank his family for supporting him. Thank you and enjoy the show!

Danielle Sorci (Mysterious Man) is so excited for her first show with Stage 1. You may have seen her in the ensemble of StarStruck’s Matilda the Musical. She would like to thank the directors, choreographer, and vocal director for putting this show on its feet and bringing it to the woods. She is very grateful for the love and support of the cast and her family. Enjoy the show!

Hannah Sorci (Milky-White) is excited to be in her first Stage 1 show. The past roles she enjoyed most were Ensemble in StarStruck’s Matilda the Musical and Grand Pabbie in StarStruck’s Mini Musical class. She would like to thank the cast and crew for getting the show on its feet and MOOving! Now sit back, relax, and enjoy the show.

Sofia VanRod (Cinderella's Mother) is a high school freshman. She was in Stage 1’s Little Mermaid JR in 2019 and played Scar in Lion King JR this past July.
Production
Rocky James Concepcion (Vocal Director) is incredibly grateful to return to his second production as Vocal Director with Stage 1 Theatre and third production overall after debuting in In The Heights. Previous performance productions include The Spongebob Musical (Patrick, Palo Alto Players), West Side Story (Chino, Pacific Coast Repertory Theatre), Once on This Island (Agwe, Contra Costa Civic Theatre), and Grease (Roger, Sunnyvale Community Players). He has actively taught in the music departments of Fremont, Hayward, and Redwood City school districts as a music teacher and choreographer. Rocky is honored to have worked with all of the wonderfully talented cast of Into The Woods Jr. Lastly, he would like to thank anyone who has given him love and support throughout all of his endeavors, especially theatre.
Traci Colon (Choreographer) has been a teaching artist in the Bay Area for over 25 years and is thrilled to return as choreographer for Stage 1’s Summer Youth Production. She has choreographed with other local community theatre companies and schools such as Tri-Valley Repertory Theatre, Tri-Valley Young Performers Academy, and Our Lady of Guadalupe School, as well as teaching Musical Theatre dance classes with West Valley Dance Company. Traci will be completing her B.S. in Psychology with an emphasis in Sports and Performance from Grand Canyon University in October 2023. Teaching performing arts in the discipline of dance to people of all ages and levels and encouraging her students to perform from their heart is what makes Ms. Traci’s dancing heart the happiest.
Lysander Abadia (Production Manager) Broadway: Mamma Mia! (Pepper). Off-Broadway: Antigone, Drag through the Seasons. Regional: Guys and Dolls (Dance Captain), Snoopy (Choreographer), Kiss Me Kate (Bill Calhoun). Tours: Mylenium International Tour, Sesame Street Live. Television: Grey’s Anatomy, PBS Kids (Choreographer), Medium, Dark Blue. Bay Area: Triumph of Love (WVLO, Director), Kinky Boots (City Lights, Choreographer), On the Town (SBMT, Gabey). Former Artistic Director for the Las Vegas Little Theatre Black Box. Former Artistic Director and Co-Founder of Poor Richard’s Players.
Robert Arturo Ramirez (Sound Designer) is pleased to be designing for Stage1 Theatre again. Upcoming: Cindy and the Disco Ball (GMT) Theatrical Designs include: Die Heart(Troubies/Colony Theatre); Haunted House Party (Troubies/Getty Villa); Legally Brunette (GMT) : Santa Claus is Coming to Motown (Troubadour Theatre) and Miracle on 34th Street (Hollywood Actors co-op) [Ovation nominated]. For TV, he is currently Sound Designer on DC Comics' Superman and Lois (CW/hbomax), The Winchesters; Supernatural's spin-off (CW) and Unprisoned (Hulu) at Warner Brothers Sound. Past theatrical designs: Lady Day at Emerson's (GMT) Ovation nom; Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 and Broads! (El Portal); Romeo and Juliet (Odyssey); Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor DreamCoat, The Little Mermaid Jr. (Stage1). He’s received 3 Emmy/2 Ovation nominations. Other TV credits include: Manifest (NBC/Netflix), DC's Titans (HBOMAX), DC’s Arrow, Queen and Slim. etc. He operates Orpheus SoundLabs in the NoHo Arts District. Thanks to Lorraine and Patricia for the opportunity to work with Stage1 again.
Liz Nelson (Costume Designer) has been involved with many aspects of theatre since childhood, focusing on costumes for the last decade. She also is the owner of A-1 Dance and Theatrical. Liz has recently become a Memaw and looks forward to babysitting little Gianna!
Magnus Whitaker (Properties Designer) is new to Stage 1 Theater, but they have been making props for various other theater companies for over a decade now. Their true passion is costuming and creating fantastical things from their imagination. They are a Jack of all trades, painting, sculpting, drawing, metalworking, woodworking, jewelry, costuming, props, acting and juggling on the side.
Layla Malacara (Stage Management Intern) is a Senior at Newark Memorial High School and has been a Stage Manager for 3 years now, and is excited to be taking a stage managing internship. She loves being involved in theater every chance that she gets. She is looking forward to watching her fellow actors and tech grow and learn from each experience! She’d like to thank all actors, tech, and mentors for creating great memories that she’ll always remember and for teaching her new things. She wishes to all actors and crew… Break A Leg!
Jamari McGee (Assistant Director) is thrilled to be back with Stage One and assistant directing one of his favorite musicals. You may remember him from Stage One's production of Joseph and the Technicolor Dream Coat as Judah or in his most recent production of Avenue Q. Jamari plans to get his degree in American Sign Language and Musical Theatre at Ohlone College. When Jamari isn't in the theatre he loves watching horror movies and going to the amusement parks. If you loved this musical check him out in RENT performing at South Bay Musical Theatre Sept/October. FB: Jamari McGee IG: itsmeemasterj
Shaneen Black (Directing Intern) is thrilled to be apart of such a talented creative team at Stage 1 Theatre. Shaneen is an aspiring actress, vocalist, and current Ohlone College student actress currently in productions. Some of her favorite past roles include Crystal in Little Shop of Horrors (Ohlone College and South San Francisco High school), Consuelo in West Side Story (South San Francisco High School), and Little Violet in Parole (Ohlone College Student Film). At Stage 1 she had enjoyed learning how the magic on stage works. She warmly thanks the cast, and crew, for making this such a memorable experience.
Stephanie Kara (Stage Manager) When she is not onstage, you can find her in the booth! An actor since 2002, Stephanie grew up a Stage 1 Theatre youth and has been on staff for the program since 2016. She is honored to be celebrating 10 years in crew/stage management with this show. Her most recent crew credits include Stage Manager for Stage 1’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Assistant Stage Manager/Production Assistant (Swing) for American Conservatory Theatre (ACT) San Francisco’s Poor Yella Rednecks. Many thanks to Lorraine and much love to M. More info at www.stephaniekara.com
Noelle Wilder (ASL Consultant) is thrilled to be a part of the Stage 1 team as their ASL consultant. As a Deaf educator and artist themself, Noelle has been working closely with Stage 1 to create Deaf friendly and accommodating spaces where all Deaf performers feel included and welcome. Most recently, Noelle has shared their bilingual talents on stage as Joseph in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Stage 1), Wish Upon A Star (Peter Pan Foundation), and at Disneyland (Peter Pan Foundation). They have also choreographed for Moana Jr. and Lion King Jr. (Stage 1), Bay Area International Deaf Dance Festival, and Deaf After Dark.
Lorraine VanRod (Director) is a longtime theatre producer, director, and administrator. She is currently Board President of Stage 1 Theatre and Development Director and one of the Executive Collective leading Cutting Ball Theater in San Francisco. Previously she was the Director of Marketing at Regional Tony Award Winner, TheatreWorks Silicon Valley. In 2019, Lorraine directed Stage 1’s youth production of The Little Mermaid JR and is thrilled to return with Into the Woods JR.

PERFORMANCE CAMP SERIES presents
Lion King Jr.
July 21 - July 23, 2023
Holly Community Center
31600 Alvarado Blvd.
Union City, CA


PERFORMANCE CAMP SERIES presents
MOANA JR.
June 23 - June 25, 2023
Patterson Elementary School
35521 Cabrillo Dr
Fremont, CA

2022

Stage 1 Theatre presents
JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT
Lyrics by Tim Rice. Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber.
One of the most enduring shows of all time, this beloved musical is a reimagining of the Biblical story of Joseph, his father Jacob, eleven brothers, the coat of many colors and featuring a talented cast of Deaf, HOH(Hard of Hearing),
CODA(Child of Deaf Adult), ASL Fluent, and hearing actors.
August 12 – 28, 2022
Firehouse Arts Center
4444 Railroad Ave
Pleasanton CA
JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT is presented by arrangement
with Concord Theatricals on behalf of The Really Useful Group.
There will be a 15 minute intermission. Running time of this production is 95 minutes.
ACT 1
Overture
Ensemble
Prologue
Narrator, Ensemble
Jacob & Sons
Narrator, Ensemble
Joseph’s Coat
Jacob, Joseph, Narrator, Brothers, Chorus
Joseph’s Dreams
Narrator, Joseph, Brothers
Poor, Poor Joseph
Narrator, Brothers, Chorus
One More Angel in Heaven
Reuben, Jacob, Brothers
Journey to Egypt
Narrator, Snake, Camel
Potiphar
Narrator, Joseph, Potiphar, Mrs. Potiphar, Male Ensemble
Close Every Door
Joseph, Chorus
Go, Go, Go Joseph
Narrator, Joseph, Baker, Butler, Ensemble
ACT 2
Pharaoh Story
Narrator, Chorus
Poor, Poor Pharaoh/Song of the King
Narrator, Butler, Pharaoh, Joseph, Ensemble
Pharaoh’s Dreams Explained
Joseph, Ensemble, Chorus
Stone the Crows
Pharaoh, Narrator, Joseph, Female Ensemble Chorus
Those Canaan Days
Brothers, Jacob
The Brothers Come to Egypt/Grovel Grovel
Narrator, Brothers, Ensemble
Who’s the Thief?
Joseph, Narrator, Brothers, Ensemble
Benjamin Calypso
Judah, Brothers, Ensemble
Joseph All the Time
Narrator, Brothers, Ensemble
Jacob in Egypt
Ensemble
Any Dream Will Do (Finale)
Joseph, Narrator, Ensemble
Megamix
Ensemble
CAST
(In alphabetical order)
Lysander Abadia
Pit Singer
Matthew Alsup
Simeon
Charles Anthony
Pharoah
Cozette Calderon
Benjamin
Ashley Castellon
Narrator
Alex Cohen
Levi
Paige Collazo
Potiphar’s Wife/Asher
Erika Coyne
Napthali/Baker
Berlin Exley
Children’s Choir
Rene Exley
Children’s Choir
Donald Grushkin
Jacob/Potiphar
Haiden Tomas Grushkin
Butler/Zebulun/Voice of Jacob & Potiphar
Rachel Haskin
Dan
Dane Lentz
Voice of Joseph/Isaacher
Jamari McGee
Judah
Hope Ringlein
Children’s Choir
London Roush
Children’s Choir
Venice Roush
Children’s Choir
Audrey Tonkin
Children’s Choir
Susan Tonkin
Gad/Wailing Wife
Brandon Ung
Reuben
Aisla Villareal
Children’s Choir
Noelle Wilder
Joseph
CREATIVES
Dane Lentz
ASL Consultant
Patricia Pitpitan
Director
Lorraine VanRod
Producer
Rocky James Concepcion
Vocal Director
Joshua Ekblom
Choreographer
Delphean Quan
Music Director
Kyle “Kiwi” Dalton
Co-Lighting Designer
David Jeffries
Set Designer
Noah Montes
Co-Lighting Designer
Emily McJunkin
Costume Designer
Robert Arturo Ramirez
Sound Designer
Jennifer Stark
Properties Designer
CREW
Stephanie Kara
Stage Manager
Brandie Larkin
Sound Operator
Kyle “Kiwi” Dalton
Light Operator
Colin Proudfoot
Spotlight Operator
Anneke Proudfoot
Spotlight Operator
Oviya Anbu
Deck Crew
K’Le Tinaco
Deck Crew
Laura Morgan
Deck Crew
ORCHESTRA
Ryan Friedman
Drums
Richard Gibson
Percussion
David Kelly-Tuason
Bass
Ken Nadler
Guitar
George Pascoe
Winds
Delphean Quan
Keyboard
Blossom Satiago-Dingle
French Horn
Biographies
Cast
Noelle Wilder (they/them): (Joseph) is honored to debut as Joseph with Stage 1 Theatre’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat in their first joint ASL/English production. Opportunities for Deaf artists in theater and dance are historically extremely rare. As a Black Deaf person, they are thrilled to represent both Deaf and BIPOC communities in this groundbreaking venture. Noelle has performed with Warner Brothers, Parthenon Ballet, Urban Jazz, Bliss Dance Company, Bay Area International Deaf Dance Festivals, Sacramento State, Ohlone College, and multiple non-profit groups benefiting underserved BIPOC populations. When they are not performing, Noelle is a Kindergarten teacher and assistant cheer coach at California School for the Deaf Fremont. Noelle wants to thank their students from CSDF for all their love, support and smiles. Enjoy the show!
Dane K. Lentz (he/him): (Voice of Joseph/Issachar/ASL Coach) is ecstatic to be in his tenth show with Stage 1! He last appeared onstage as “Riff” in SCP’s West Side Story. Favorite past credits: “Most Interesting Man/Big Stone – ASL” in Eurydice (CLTC), “Corny Collins” in Hairspray (Stage 1/Ohlone Summerfest), the title ogre in Shrek (TVRT), “Sir Lancelot et.al.” in Spamalot (Stage 1), “Horton the Elephant” in Seussical (Crosslight); ensemble roles in Rent, Les Misérables, Sweeney Todd, Evita. Dane is a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults – and yes, he has seen the movie!) and he works as a freelance ASL interpreter. His homegrown skills have led him to work with numerous organizations all around the nation. Dane recently partnered with 35th Parallel Productions in New York City to aid in their efforts to make new works accessible; he has also provided interpretation services for the San Jose Sharks, the NFL Pro Bowl in Orlando, and the Peter Pan Foundation for their annual performance in Disneyland! Love to mom. ~Phil. 4:13~ @danetrain512
Ashley Castellon (she/her): (Narrator) is so honored to be a part of this show. This is her 4th show with Stage 1 and is so excited to share the stage with them again. She has played roles such as Sally Brown in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown(NMHS) , Lisa in Mamma Mia (STG1), Teresita in West Side Story (SCP), and more. This is her first spoken english/ ASL production and it was a huge task but as a CODA (Child Of Deaf Adult), it was an honor. She would like to thank her family, friends, and mentors for always supporting her and her big dreams. She would also like to thank all ASL interpreters for making it accessible for the Deaf / HOH community, including her mother, to see her perform growing up. Ashley has no words for how special this production is and how willing everyone was to make it as accessible as they could. Ashley would like to thank everyone who believed in her throughout this production as well. She hopes you can leave the show with appreciation and curiosity about what more we can do for the Deaf / HOH community. Theater is best shared live so she hopes you enjoy the show!
Rachel Haskin (she/her): Soprano Rachel Haskin discovered her love of performing as a teenager when she was cast as Cinderella in her very first show! Other favorite roles include playing Mrs. Barnum in Barnum, Marian in The Music Man and Mary in Savior of the World. She studied performing arts at the American Musical Theater Artist Institute of San Jose. Other interests include volleyball, piano, baking and homeschooling. Rachel currently lives in Fremont with her husband James and 6 of their 8 children.
Haiden Grushkin (he/him): (Butler/Zebulun/Voice of Jacob & Potiphar) This is Haiden’s return to Stage 1 after several years away, last seen on the Stage 1 mainstage in The Man Who Saved Christmas in 2009. In the time since then he has also been seen as Maurice (Beauty and the Beast), Puck (A Midsummer Night’s Dream), Clarence (It’s a Wonderful Life), and the Wicked Witch of the West (The Wizard of Oz) among many other roles. He is a theatre student at CSU East Bay with a focus on directing for the stage. This is also his first time sharing the stage with his father. He hopes you enjoy the show!
Erika Coyne (she/her): (Naphtali/Baker) is delighted to be making her debut with Stage 1. Recent credits include All Together Now and Annie. She has a degree in Music Education from Duquesne University (Pittsburgh, PA). Much love and thanks to Thomas for his endless support!
Cozette Calderon (she/her): (Benjamin) has appeared in several theater productions, undertaking varied roles ranging from Scar in the Lion King to Miss Ladybug in James and the Giant Peach, and has been in print-ads for companies like Costumes Ink and Pottery Barn. Her most recent work is a web-series entitled ’ME’, where she plays a CODA named Lilly. Cozette is hard of hearing and is a native ASL signer—a skill she is excited to share with you in her present role.
Matthew Alsup (he/him): (Simeon) is thrilled to join the Joseph cast for his first production with Stage 1 Theatre. Born and raised in Tennessee, he moved to Pittsburgh to study computer science at Carnegie Mellon University where he stayed heavily involved in the student-run theatre group Scotch’n’Soda. Some of his favorite past roles include Dr. Frank-n-Furter in Rocky Horror, Man in Chair in Drowsy Chaperone, and Leaf Coneybear in …Spelling Bee. Since moving to the Bay Area in 2014, he learned ASL at Berkeley City College and has been in love with it ever since. He lives with his partner Jake and elderly cat Yoda in Berkeley and currently works at Pixar as a software engineer.
Donald Grushkin (he/him): (Jacob/Potiphar) This marks Donald Grushkin’s return to the stage after a 41 year hiatus. Prior to this, he had roles in Jesus Christ Superstar, Dirty Work at the Crossroads, South Pacific, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Model Secondary School for the Deaf in Washington, DC. In his day job, he is a Professor of Deaf Studies at the California State University – Sacramento, where he has worked for over 20 years. Although he works in Sacramento, he lives in the Bay Area with his family and two dogs, and yes, he is Haiden Grushkin’s father in real life!
Brandon Ung (he/him): (Reuben) This is Brandon Ung’s first production with Stage 1. He has very much enjoyed being part of this tiny but mighty cast and wants to thank everyone who made this show possible! He graduated from Biola University studying music and has read about the story of Joseph for many years in different Bible studies. He never really thought about playing the brother Reuben before but now that he’s here, all he can think of is one of his college friend’s favorite catch phrases: Yeehaw brothers!
Paige Collazo (she/her): (Potiphar’s Wife/Asher) Paige is excited to be joining Stage 1 Theatre for her fourth production of Joseph! She was most recently seen onstage as Anne in La Cage Aux Folles at Altarena Playhouse. Other credits include Olive Ostrovsky in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (PSP), Alysha in American Idiot (The Left Hand Theatre), Aly in Mamma Mia! (Hillbarn Theatre) as well as ensemble in Heathers (PSP), Sweet Charity (Hillbarn Theatre), Singin’ in the Rain (PCRT) and Funny Girl (Hillbarn Theatre). She thanks her family and friends for their continued support in pursuing the performing arts however possible. Cheers to keeping theater alive!
Charles Anthony (he/him): (Pharaoh) earned his Associate of Arts with Honors in Fine Arts, Music Concentration at Ohlone College. Favorite past roles include Collins in RENT (Summerfest), Gomez in The Addams Family Musical (Stage 1), King Louis in Hunchback of Notre Dame (TVRT), Fakir in Side Show (Altarena), and Padamadan in Legally Blonde The Musical (Palo Alto Players). Charles is a Licensed Financial Coach who teaches financial literacy and leadership development. He is also a Moderator, Community Advocate, and Author for BladderCancer.net. “Special love to my Tribe: Kama, VJ, Boo Mark, Ate Vina & Kuya Arnold, Irv & Rina, Jess, Xtina, Debbie, Yessica, Esusana, Judy, Donna y Waldo, mis sobrinas, and Lysander. To my DTA/OAD Framily for keeping me inspired and accountable. And especially to Mom, for this amazing life and the new high A. #stronglikeSusan” IG @charlesanthonysings
Susan Tonkin (she/her): (Wailing Wife/Gad) Susan is excited to return to Stage 1, having previously appeared as Alice Beineke in The Addams Family. It’s especially fun to appear alongside her daughter in this show! Recent Bay Area roles include Meg Boyd in Damn Yankees (TVRT, performed here at the Firehouse earlier this year), Joanne in Company (Altarena), Zeigfeld’s Favorite in The Will Rogers Follies (WVLO), and Princess Puffer in The Mystery of Edwin Drood (DVC).
Jamari McGee (he/him): (Judah) Jamari is thrilled to be back on the stage with Stage 1. You may remember him from their production of Hairspray. Jamari was last seen in the Ohlone Summerfest production of RENT as Benny. Some of his favorite credits include Chip Tolentino “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” C.C. White “Dreamgirls” Jamari has also been in Chicago, Mamma Mia, Once on This Island and more. Jamari is excited to be part of this ASL bilingual cast. Both of his parents are deaf and his mom taught him ASL when he was only 1 yrs old. After this experience Jamari would like to do more shows with ASL. Jamari studies Theatre Arts at City College and plans to get his BA. He eventually wants to move to the east coast and continue theatre. He hopes that you enjoy the show and has a great night!
Alex Cohen (she/her): (Levi) Alex is 15 years old and loves performing. When not in a musical or play, Alex can be found jamming with her band, sewing, or hanging out with her friends and sisters. She is very excited to be in the show and has loved working with this very talented cast! Alex would like to thank her family and her ASL teacher, Ms. P.
Aisla Villareal (she/her): (Children’s Choir) Aisla is excited to be back onstage performing after 2 years of shutdowns! She had the pleasure to work with Stage 1 for the first time a few years ago as Molly in “ANNIE” and is so happy to be back working with them again. She was also last seen performing at Woodminster Summer Musicals for the last few years as a ballerina, Allison Summers, in “BILLY ELLIOTT”, Children’s Choir in “JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT”, and one of the daughters, Joelle (originally a son), in “SOUTH PACIFIC”. Her biggest and most awarding role yet was when she had the pleasure to work with the SF Symphony at the Davies Symphony Hall as the Sad Tree in “CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS LIVE!”. She was also the first child ever to play that role a second time the following season. In addition to that role she was also cast as one of the Dancing Reindeer for their Christmas Special. Other credits include: Lollipop Guild in WIZARD OF OZ and the youngest child in THE KING AND I, both with Tri Valley Repertory Theater. She has been dancing since the age of 3, and has participated in dance competitions with Tiffany’s Dance Academy, Xtreme Force Dance Company, and Yoko’s Dance of the Performing Arts. She is currently at Alonzo King Lines Ballet and Westlake School for the Performing Arts competing in hip hop with the Jr. Apprentice group (Jr. APT). They currently won first place in teens at Nationals in Phoenix, Arizona!
London Roush (she/her/ella): (Children’s Choir) London is sooo excited to be back on the stage with Stage One Theatre. As part of the children’s choir, London has the opportunity to expand her vocal talents alongside learning more ASL and being part of an amazing cast. When she is not performing for the audience, she enjoys playing basketball, lacrosse, skateboarding, playing French horn, building LEGOs, and hanging out with her family and friends. She has had the opportunity to play Flounder (“The Little Mermaid”), Jojo (“Seussical”), a hyena (“Lion King”) and various supporting cast for community and high school theater. She is thrilled to continue her passion for theater, and hopes you LOVE the show!
Venice Roush (she/her/ella): (Children’s Choir) Venice is honored to have the chance to work with Stage One Theatre and be back on stage doing what she loves. As part of the children’s choir, Venice is learning so much about how she sings, how her voice works with the cast, and how she can bring the show to life while signing too. When she is not busy entertaining audiences, she enjoys making her own videos, dancing, playing lacrosse, doing Parkour, swimming, singing her heart out, and being outdoors with her family and friends. She has had the opportunity to play as part of School of Fish/Ursula’s tentacles (“The Little Mermaid”) and Snoopy (“Charlie Brown’s Christmas”). Venice is eager for you to see the cast’s talents come alive on stage for Joseph!!
Berlin Exley (she/her): (Children’s Choir) is 12 years old and is so excited to be performing in her first adult show! She has performed in many shows with Stage 1 before including The Little Mermaid Jr, Dear Edwina, A year with Frog and Toad, and Aladdin Jr! She has had so much fun with Stage 1 and is so excited for her next adventure! Berlin thanks her parents, sister, friends and stuffed animals for their support! She hopes you have a great time and enjoy the show!
René Exley (she/her): (Children’s choir) is thrilled to be in this production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat! She has been in many youth productions with Stage 1, including Dear Edwina, and The Little Mermaid. She has also been in productions at Newark Memorial High School. She hopes you all enjoy the show!
Audrey Tonkin (she/her): (Children’s choir) Audrey is thrilled to appear in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat for the second time, having sung in the children’s choir for the Woodminster production in 2018. It is her first show with Stage1, and her second show with her mom also in the cast, having appeared in TVRT’s Wizard of Oz as a munchkin, with mom Susan in the ensemble. Audrey is an 8th grader who lives in Pleasanton.
Hope Ringlein (she/her): (Children’s choir) will be a junior at San Ramon Valley High School. Hope has been enjoying being a part of the Stage 1 family since she was 7. She got her first taste of theater as a cast member in the Stage 1 Youth production of Aladdin Jr. Hope has also been in their productions of A Year with Frog and Toad and The Little Mermaid Jr. Hope has been learning ASL for two years and is excited to be in the children’s chorus of this production. In her free time, she is an avid reader and enjoys playing guitar and video games.
Creatives
Patricia Pitpitan (she/her): (Director) is Executive Producer and a Board Member at Stage 1 Theatre. She has been involved in numerous productions throughout the Bay Area, most recently producing Sister Act at Stage 1. She has also been seen as “Tanya” in Mamma Mia! and “Daniela” in In the Heights. She is thrilled to be creating this labor of love with this incredibly talented cast and some of her oldest friends. Many thanks to Dane Lentz, without whom none of this would have been possible. And thanks to you, our audience, for supporting the arts and Stage 1 Theatre!
Stephanie Kara (she/her): (Stage Manager) has been with Stage 1 Theatre in a variety of roles including actor, crew, stage manager, and staff across their youth and mainstage shows since 2006. She is honored to be a part of this team of creatives and to have her first show since the start of the pandemic here on deck with them. Stephanie is thrilled to be celebrating 20 years in theatre with this production, in addition to being reunited with so many friends on the project. Shout outs to her mentor Christi Wallace and Karen Halverson, many thanks to Patricia and Lorraine, and much love to M. She dedicates her role to her late grandma (2015) and friend Keith Leung (2018).
Joshua Ekblom (he/him): (Choreographer) Josh is thrilled to be making his theatrical choreography debut at Stage 1. Originally from San Jose, Josh grew up performing with SJCMT, SJCLO, San Jose Repertory Theatre and West Valley Light Opera. He attended Abraham Lincoln Performing Arts High School and earned his first job at Great America where he met Director, Patricia Pitpitan. After a move to L.A. where he was a parade and stage performer at Disneyland, Josh was seen in various commercials and television shows such as 3rd Rock From The Sun, Saved By The Bell and Silk Stalkings. Josh has appeared in The Radio City Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall in New York City as well as Seth Rudetsky’s Broadway 101. Some of his theatre credits include Guys and Dolls and Beauty & The Beast at AMTSJ, and Cathy Rigby’s Peter Pan in Branson, Missouri, where he was the Dance Captain and Assistant Director. Josh currently resides in San Luis Obispo, California where he is the Artistic Director of The Theatre Company at Studio @, and instructor of tap, musical theatre and jazz. He has performed with Civic Ballet of San Luis Obispo in original productions of The Crucible and Rodeo, directed by Drew Silvaggio and has been seen in annual productions of The Nutcracker as Godfather Drosselmier. He hopes you enjoy this unique, bilingual production of Joseph.
Robert Arturo Ramirez (he/him): (Sound Designer) is pleased to be designing for Stage 1 Theatre. Theatrical Designs include: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (Garry Marshall Theater) and Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill (GMT) and Miracle on 34th Street (Hollywood Actors co-op), (Ovation Awards nom for both.) For TV, he is currently Sound Designer on DC Comics’ Superman and Lois (CW/hbomax) and Unprisoned (Peacock/NBC) at Warner Brothers Sound. Past theatrical designs: The Root Beer Bandits (GMT); Haunted House Party (Getty Villa); Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 and Broads! (El Portal); Romeo and Juliet (Odyssey); Santa Claus is Coming to Motown (Troubadour Theater Company/GMT.) He’s received 3 Emmy nominations. Other TV credits include: Manifest (NBC/Netflix), DC’s Titans and DMZ for HBOmax, DC’s Arrow and The Flash, Queen and Slim. etc. He operates Orpheus SoundLabs in the NoHo Arts District. Thanks to: Patricia and Lorraine.
David Jeffries (he/him): (Set Designer) has been building sets and live productions for the past 7 years in and out of Ohlone among any and every other theater that he can step in. He has been lucky enough to work on Stage One shows like Dreamgirls and 42nd Street. As well as Starting Art’s production of Mary Poppins. But most notable are his shows at Ohlone; Rock of Ages, The Illusion, HairSpray, Phantom of the Opera, Rent, and near to his heart, our Theater Guild’s production of Tick-Tick-Boom! as his first time as Set Designer. He is more than excited to be able to build upon what he’s learned as a Set Designer and can’t wait to dazzle everyone with his set for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat!
Lorraine VanRod (she/her): (Producer) has been in the theatre community as a producer, director, or administrator for nearly 30 years. She became Board President for Stage 1 Theatre in 2020 shortly after directing their youth production, The Little Mermaid JR. Lorraine was previously the Director of Marketing for TheatreWorks Silicon Valley (Regional Tony Award Winner 2019). She has boundless pride in this production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and has been inspired by the passion the cast, crew, and creative team has poured into this show.
Emily McJunkin (she/her): (Costume Designer) had the wonderful opportunity to create the costumes seen in the show this summer. Emily has just finished High School and will be attending Carrington College to study Veterinary Technology in the fall. Since she was 3 years old she has been a dancer and a part of Betty Gentry’s Dance Program in Newark. In recent years she has taken up sewing as a hobby and creating many pieces for friends and family. Previously she has worked on College Films for costuming and Special FX makeup. She is looking forward to continuing creative work like this alongside her sister who works in the film industry
Kyle Dalton (he/him/they/them): (Co-Lighting Designer) “Kiwi” has been working in the theater and live entertainment realm since high school and has recently started focusing more into lighting. He has been heavily active within the Ohlone Theater Department and productions thus allowing him to continue to gain a vast knowledge of lighting techniques. He strives to be a part of the live music industry as a Lighting Designer in the future and has put some of that influence into this production. Enjoy the show!
Noah Montes (he/him): (Co-Lighting Designer) is an Ohlone College graduate and is excited to be a part of his first production with Stage 1 Theatre! This is his first musical as a lighting designer after being involved with several Ohlone College productions including Animal Farm, Spectramotion, and recently the Summerfest production of Rent. He wants to thank his family and friends for always being supportive of him as well as Stage 1 Theatre for this amazing opportunity. He hopes you enjoy the show!
Rocky James Concepcion (he/him): (Vocal Director) Rocky is incredibly grateful to return to his second production with Stage 1 Theatre, after debuting in In The Heights. Previously, he has been seen in West Side Story (Chino, Pacific Coast Repertory Theatre), Once on this Island (Agwe, Contra Costa Civic Theatre), and Grease (Roger, Sunnyvale Community Players). He has actively taught in the music departments of Fremont, Redwood City, and Hayward school districts as a music teacher and choreographer. Rocky would like to give a special thank you to Patricia, our incomparable Director, for believing and trusting in him during and after this process. Lastly, he’d like to thank anyone who has given him love and support throughout all of his endeavors, especially theatre. (@cjykcor)
Jennifer Stark (she/her): (Properties Designer) Jennifer joined Stage 1 Theatre in 2020 and now serves as the Board Secretary. Though new to Stage 1, Jennifer has been involved with theatre around the community for almost 30 years. She has both produced and performed with such companies as Contra Costa musical theater, Pittsburg theater company, maskers Playhouse, Contra Costa Civic Theatre, and Berkeley Playhouse. Jennifer welcomes you back to LIVE theatre!
SPECIAL THANKS
Pittsburg Theatre Company
Ohlone College
Nanette Dadzie (our TikTok sensation!)
Mary Edwards
Angela Dwyer
Tri-City Voice
Pleasanton Weekly
Sofia VanRod
Fred Rodriguez