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LANDMARK COMMUNITY THEATRE 4

A MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIRMAN

Hi Friends,

Seven years ago Landmark Community Theatre’s Board of Directors gathered in an empty storefront on Park Street to complete its Articles of Incorporation and a Request for Proposal in a bid to reopen the Thomaston Opera House. Our goals felt light years away, but we were confident we had both the talent and passion to move this project forward. At the end of the night we took up a collection to obtain the money for the necessary fees required to incorporate a nonprofit.

Today we sit here, in our beautiful building, providing our town and the surrounding communities with unforgettable performing arts experiences. Our patrons are given the opportunity to enjoy classic and the contemporary musical and dramatic productions at a price that is affordable. We attract a wide array of talented artists, by producing shows each season that encourages diversity. Our artists are supported by experienced production teams and state of the art technical elements to create high quality performances.

Our children have the opportunity to take classes to explore their creativity, as they gain self confidence and self-esteem. We presently offer comprehensive programming for students in grades 1-12. According to a recent report by the National Endowment for the Arts, “students who have access to the arts in or out of school also tend to have better academic results, better workforce opportunities, and more civic engagement.”

As we provide these opportunities to view or participate in performing arts, we also work to protect and preserve the historic Thomaston Opera House. Although the road is long, we take steps each day toward the completion of the restoration project. In the past two months we have had over a dozen architectural/engineering companies bid on the opportunity to develop an in depth plan for the total restoration of the Thomaston Opera House.

I am frequently reminded that none of this would be happening without the continued support of our artists, volunteers, and patrons. I feel very fortunate to be the chair of the board that is charged with moving Landmark forward. This is both a daunting responsibility and humbling experience. I have seen so many give so much in so many different ways I just want to say “Thank you.”

Share the passion,

Gary KingsburyChairman, Landmark Community TheatreBoard of Directors


A M E S S A G E F R O M T H E E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R

Welcome to the Thomaston Opera House located in the heart of Downtown Thomaston. It is a pleasure and an honor to be able to work and produce top quality community theatre

productions through the guidance of Landmark Community Theatre’s board of trustees and the countless talented volunteers that work on every production. The Thomaston Opera House has a long history of outstanding performances and events that has gained it a reputation for excellence throughout the state. The facility is a point of pride for area residents.

In addition to outstanding live theatre productions, the facility also serves as a concert/performance venue for many local organizations like the Ladies Choral Club, H.S. Liederkranz, Thomaston Center School, CVTOS, Rotary Club of Thomaston, and many more. These events allow even more people to experience the joy of performing in such a special environment.

The Thomaston Opera House enjoys a listing on the state and federal registry for historic buildings. It is an extremely rare and unique auditorium with original hand painted panels and decorative stencils on the ceiling and Cornice. You may notice the stories and symbols displayed in this work? The vintage seating in the orchestra and original seating in the mezzanine were restored in the 1990’s. Each seat bares the name of a donor that made it happen. The latest restoration is on display on the back wall of the mezzanine revealing the American eagle hidden from view since the 1920’s. The backstage structure still resembles a typical stage built in 1884. However, now it is adorned with a great deal of modern electronics needed for contemporary theatre productions. Finally, located in front of the stage, house left, is the 1926 Marr Colton Theatre Pipe Organ. It was installed in 1970. It is played before many productions, accompanies silent films and is played in concert formats. Every element highlights the distinctive qualities making this venue one of a kind.

Thomaston forefathers provided the vision, planning and construction of the Thomaston Auditorium in 1883. At every bump and turn of the theatre’s history; volunteers were there providing time, talent and treasure to insure its future. It will be the volunteers that secure its place in the years to come.

I hope that you enjoy your visit to the Thomaston Opera House and that your experience will follow you home and find a place in your heart. No single individual, group or organization is responsible for the success or failure of Thomaston Opera House or the programs it presents. However, with the support from many, we can realize the full potential this theatre has to offer.

The Thomaston Opera House is a historic “Landmark”. That is the significance of our name, Landmark Community Theatre. We are dedicated to the mission of the Thomaston Opera House. I hope you will share our passion and join us in our efforts. Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,

Jeffrey P. DunnExecutive Director

Our Mission

Landmark Community Theatre offers opportunities where the community may produce, participate in and enjoy the performing arts; seeks to educate all ages in theatre and music; and strives to preserve and protect the Opera House as a historic landmark and community space.


C O N N E C T I C U T VA L L E Y T H E AT R E O RG A N S O C I E T Y

Connecticut Valley Chapter, American Theatre Organ SocietyA non-profit 501©3 Corporation

The Connecticut Valley Theatre Organ Society (CVTOS) was founded in 1961 as a non-

profit organization and is the Connecticut Chapter of the American Theatre Organ Society (ATOS), a nationwide organization also committed to the perpetuation of this “King of Instruments” as an important musical medium. The CVTOS is dedicated to preserving and presenting the music and excitement of the Theatre Pipe Organ in Connecticut and maintains historic pipe organs in the 1884 Thomaston Opera House and the Shelton High School Auditorium.

Our Musical TreasureThe Thomaston Opera House is home to a wonderful 1926 Marr-Colton Theatre Pipe Organ, originally built and installed in the Palace Theatre in Danbury. Theatre pipe organs were designed to accompany the silent movies of the 1920’s, but thanks to their large palate of sounds (designed to represent instruments in an orchestra), including whole percussion sections like drums, cymbals, bells and even a whole piano, they can be used today for a much wider variety of musical styles.

Thanks to the Connecticut Valley Theatre Organ Society and its dedicated members, the organ, along with a 1927 Austin Theatre Pipe Organ in the Shelton High School Auditorium, are being heard by the public in musical concerts and other public programs. CVTOS maintains these instruments without charge to the building owners, preserving a priceless jewel in our American history.

We need your help to keep these organs playingYour tax deductible gift made out to the CVTOS Organ Endowment Fund and mailed to Juan Cardona, 13 Brookwood Drive, Newtown, CT 06470-1842, will help our curators keep these instruments playing, for the enjoyment of so many, for years to come.

If you would like more information about our endowment program, joining CVTOS, or even a tour of our organs, contact Jon Sibley, President, at 860-345-2518 or Juan Cardona, 203-426-2443.

CVTOS would like to congratulate Juan Cardona, Jr. for 25 Years of Volunteer Service for promoting and presenting the Theatre Pipe Organ in a professional manner that has become synonymous with the stage productions for the Thomaston Opera House and Landmark Community Theatre. We are extremely proud of Juan for all of his dedicated service to CVTOS and to Landmark Community Theatre.


A N N U A L F U N D D R I V E D O N O R S

PLATINUM LEVEL$1000 & UPRobert Bartosiewicz, in Honor

of Gloria BartosiewiczThe Cardona FamilyJoseph & Marie Galbraith,

in Memory of Walt RobinsonDoug GoodenoughThe Kingsbury'sRichard KoszycaJim Whitney

GOLD LEVEL$500 to $999Margaret & William BergRoland Cyr, in Honor of Adrien

& Helene CyrBruce & Myrna Kamens, in

Honor of Loved OnesBarbara Piscopo in Memory of

Patsy PiscopoGeorge SeabourneArthur & Nancy Thorsen

SILVER LEVEL$250 to $499Juan Cardona, Jr.Francis & Meg DelaneyJeff & Sandra DunnKelley HuttonJannette D. StevensCurtis & Mary Alice WilbanksThe Wollman Family

BRONZE LEVEL$100 to $249John & Kathy AngevineRichard & Lois BenferMichael BurrMiriam Mason CableCarmen & David CarlsonRoger & Heather ChaceChester & Eleanor ChizinskiNeil & Janice D'AmbrosiFran & Meg DelaneyRichard DimariaRaymond P. EspositoFrank FontanaDebra A. FoshayDonna M. GrahamAnne Elizabeth GreenBette Jane Z. HaskellRichard & Janet HealyLorraine HoebelLaraine HoganFred & Faith HullCharles JonesLynne Ray KearneyRichard Karl Keutzer

Beverly A KranzDiane KucharskiDonald LanninThe Lapio FamilySteve LewisElaine MarshallCarol MartinoBonnie MisKenneth & Susan MorrisThomas & Barb MuellerArthur & Mary MunterAgnes MurawskiJoan NolandDiane & William O'DonaldMarie & Eddie OlceseJack PasquellaMarlene PerniciaroKarla & Michael RussoDaniel RyanWilliam & Nanette SheridanSignatures Limited, Inc.John St. DenisJannette D. StevensIn Memory of George ParisCatherine StranieriPriscilla & David TerhuneKendrick WarrenHilda WehrleRichard & MaryEllen YezekKimberly Zywno

PATRON LEVELUP to $99Michael C. AccuostiLayne M. AllisonAbby & Michael AuerbachJoan BarkusPeter & Linda BarnesIn Memory of Walter RobinsonRichard W. BenferHelen BlanchardDorothy A. BlaskoCara BlazierKeri Jeanne BoeBetsy BoothThe Allen, Strom and

Bosse FamilyJane CarneyLinda & Gordon CavanaughGladys CerrutoPat CharamutAnthony & Carol ChestoEllen CifoneThe Cummings FamilyDon & Juney CushmanKathy DaneIn Memory of Catherine FrantzisGeorge DinoMaura Doran

Jeffrey DunnSharon EdquistJohn FabianiMary FacMarilyn FletcherJoyce Jeffrey in Honor of

Marissa Follo PerryMary Pat FredericksenEmily Gagnon, in Honor of

Gary KingsburyNancy & Bob GalpinCarol GeddesAl & Linda GeneraliPatricia E. GoodinStan & Jean A. GowlisSalvatore GugliottiThomas HarteCindy & Ronald HaxJay & Holly HerbertJulie InghamJonathan JacobsonRuth JohnsonChristine & Michael KalmanMary KamensCarol KisshRichard & Hazel KoszycaNorman LaMadeleineNancy LandonaLinda LiotusJohn LongFrank LussierDavid MacharelliFranziska ManuelDenise McDonaldElaine McEachernBarbara MechlerPatricia E. MellittBruce D. MillerChristina MolliconiMargaret MoreauZara A. MosherBert & Susan NadeauAlice NelsonLester & Vivian NewillDave & Patti PavlickRay & Louise PelletierMarie PelletierGail PeruginiPhilomena PeruginiJames & Barbara PetroskyWilliam PielIn Memory of Barbara ClarkCynthia & Henry MaterekMari-Ann PronovostBrock PutnamFoster Evans ReeseMary Colleen ReillyMary ReynoldsCarol Riccucci


A N N U A L F U N D D R I V E D O N O R S

V O L U N T E E R S

Judith M. RifkinPaula H. RollestonSandra RossGesina RossiJeff Savage, in Honor of

Alex GiacinDaniel O. SayersMartin SchoenfeldRebecca SkinnerMargie SudykKathleen Ann Tobin

Mr. & Mrs. Anthony TroccoloPam WessmanChristine Williams &

Charles StohlbergLynda WillinghamDonna M. WollschlagerJoan ZeliffDorthy PetitMarilyn Zera

BUSINESS Brandywine Living at LitchfieldConnecticut Community

FoundationThe Ensign-Bickford

Foundation, Inc.Friendship ToursIBM Matching Gifts ProgramIntrasonics, Inc.Plymouth Glass & Mirror, Inc.Reynolds Carbide Die Co., Inc.Sandford Consulting, Llc

THEATRE STAFFJeffrey Dunn

Executive DirectorAndrea Bingham,

Administrative & Production Assistant

Kelley Hutton Volunteer Coordinator

Christina Molliconi House Manager

BOX OFFICE VOLUNTEERSJennifer BeveridgeTori CampbellJanice D’AmbrosiCourtney DeraleauBetty Jane HaskelKelley HuttonLouis MolliconiPam PelletierLyle ResslerEmily RootLauren StangoDonna StormsMary Ellen YezekRick YezekJohnathan Zalaski

SERVICE ORGANIZATIONSStudents of Explorations School,

Winsted, CTStudents of Thomaston High

School Interact ClubStudents of Terryville High SchoolStudents of the Waterbury Arts

Magnet School

To become a Landmark Community Theatre volunteer email, phone or write your name, address, phone, contact information and area of interest to [email protected], Office 860-283-8558,

Box Office 860-283-6250, Landmark Community Theatre P.O. Box 158 Thomaston, CT 06787


F R I E N D S O F T H E T H O M A S T O N O P E R A H O U S EB O A R D O F D I R E C T O R S

E A G L E R E S T O R A T I O N P R O J E C T D O N O R S

Roy E. Bouffard—Chairman/TreasurerSusan MacDonald—Vice Chairman

Joan Gangloff—SecretaryDavid Carlson

James KaniewskiRichard DimariaJannette Stevens

JoAnn Rice

DIAMOND DONOR ($1000 & OVER)Roy & Christine BouffardMarie Galbraith

in Memory of Timothy Stevens

Rick & JoAnn RiceConnecticut Community

FoundationThomaston Savings Bank

RUBY DONOR ($500 to $999)Black Rock Tavern & RestaurantPeter & Jennifer Rogozinski

EMERALD ($250 to $499)Michael BurrLyle Ressler

SAPPHIRE ($150 to $249)Nicholas & Marlene PerniciaroCurtis & Mary Alice WilbanksDavid & Carmen CarlsonCaitlin ScheibelRebecca Skinner &

Joseph Wassong

PEARL (UP to $150)Elizabeth AndersonMaryann BroomheadMiriam Mason CableMark CantinPamela CarrLinda ChandonRichard ChandonAnthony & Carolyn ChestoRobert & Jean CollinsJanice D’AmbrosiSean & Jennifer DelaneyThomas & Elaine DuffanyAudrey EckertPeter FoleyJoan & William GangloffBeth GaudetteCarol & Lawrence GeddesJeffrey & Zoe GreenwoodRichard & Janet HealyJulianne InghamMary Beth JohnsonR.B. JohnsonMary Kamens

Lynne KearneyRichard & Carleen KeutzerChristina LavieriSusan MacDonaldThomas & Susan MargiusMary Ann MartinRobert & Norma McQuarrieChristina MolliconiAlice & Edward NelsonJack & Karen PasquellaEdward ParsonsMark PolinskyNancy RickbornAnthony & Gesina RossiKarla & Michael RussoGeorge SeabourneJannette StevensBarbara VeermanKathryn WehrleNancy WilsonJames & Elizabeth Zaccaria

The Friends are always looking for potential board members, if you, or anyone you know, has an interest in historic restoration, please have him/her contact the Friends of the Thomaston Opera House.


P R O G R A M N O T E S

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD

A full length play by Christopher SergelBased upon the novel by Harper Lee

Produced by special arrangement with THE DRAMATIC PUBLISHING COMPANY of Woodstock, Illinois

CAST OF CHARACTERS

Jean Louise ‘Scout’ Finch ..............................................................................Bobbie Celine Doherty Atticus Finch .............................................................................................................. Josiah P. RoweJeremy ‘Jem’ Finch ............................................................................................................ Lucas PeckCharles ‘Dill’ Baker Harris ...................................................................................Ben Stone-ZelmanCalpurnia.................................................................................................................. Janette D. ScottMaudie Atkinson ........................................................................................................ Dianna WallerBoo Radley ........................................................................................................................Peter BardTom Robinson ............................................................................................................... Justin HenryMr. Gilmer/Mr. Cunningham ......................................................................................Eric WilczakHeck Tate .......................................................................................................................Lou GuertinBob Ewell .......................................................................................................................Jim DohertyMayella Ewell .............................................................................................................. Olivia Lanteri Reverend Sykes ............................................................................................................ Michael ScottJudge Taylor .....................................................................................................................Mike RileyMrs. Dubose .............................................................................................................. Shanelle DupreStephanie Crawford .....................................................................................................Cathy AnnulliClerk ............................................................................................................................... Tyler WhiteEnsemble ........................................................ Grace Carpenter, Doug DeSousa, Benjamin Dressel,

Gavin Kavanaugh, & Ava Piotrowski


P R O D U C T I O N T E A M

PRODUCTION TEAM

Producer ........................................................................................................................Jeffrey DunnProduction Manager ............................................................................................... Andrea BinghamDirector ........................................................................................................................ Lucia Dressel Stage Manager .................................................................................................. Michael P. CalabreseLighting Designer ..........................................................................................................Tina Parziale Scenic Design ................................................................................................................... Evan SeideCostume Designer .................................................................................................... Kate LuurtsemaSet Builders ........................................................................ Terry Breen, John Dressel, Lou Guertin,

Olivia Lanteri, Mike Riley, Tina Parziale, Erin Peck, Lucas Peck, Evan Seide, Greg White,

Tyler White, & Jonathan ZalaskiProps Master ..................................................................................................... Karen Brooks Willey Sound Design ........................................................................................................... Aaron WestcottFight Choreographer ...................................................................................................Chet OstroskiOpera House Technical Assistant ............................................................................... Tori CampbellCostume Assistants ............................................................CJ Barber, Carol Chesto, Mary Kamens,

Franziska Manuel, Louise Pelletier, Mary Lou Pico, Barbara Piscopo, & Hilda Wehrle

Stage Crew .........................................................................................................................Peter Bard Photographer .............................................................................................. Lisa Cherie PhotographyOpera House Organist ...........................................................................................Juan Cardona, Jr. Makeup Consultant ........................................................................................................ Aric Martin

SPECIAL THANKS:Robert Kwalick, Pat Piscopo, Bob Brophy, David Verdosci

Special acknowledgement to the cast, crew, & volunteers, for donating their time towards all aspects of this theatrical production and anyone who jumped on board after this playbill went to print.


D I R E C T O R ’ S N O T E

As a teacher, I often explore celebrated pieces of literature with the students, asking them to analyze what makes a piece both timeless and universal. So, what is it about

Harper Lee’s To Kill A Mockingbird that brings us back to the novel time and time again? What is it that brought the actors to this project, and you, as the audience, to this point of anticipation? Many of you will reply that the novel meant something to you, or that it was the first novel that really spoke to your soul. Some of you will say that it is that picture of the leggy and charismatic Gregory Peck standing before a jury in Maycomb, stalwartly defending the doomed Tom Robinson. Truth be told, this last reason is accurate for me.

Nelle Harper Lee created vivid characters based on her own life. Atticus is biographical of her father, a lawyer from a small Southern town who defended the neighbors whom no one else would defend. He lost many times, and this took a toll on the family—emotionally, socially, and financially. Amazingly, as stuck in time and era as Mockingbird is, its present relevance is not lost on any audience.

Last year, I had the distinct privilege of bringing the story of Anne Frank and her family to this stage. I remember a friend at the end of the performance, staring at the blackened attic with tears in his eyes. He simply said to me, “this is happening now.”

This is universality. This is timelessness. This is the message of Mockingbird. As with Anne Frank, it is the wisdom and innocence of a child’s voice that leads us to this simple message, and Mockingbird begs an addendum to the question—this is happening now; what are we doing about it?

Please enjoy our version of Nelle Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird. The cast, crew, and production staff ask that after you have seen it, please pay forward the message of tolerance.

Lucia M. Dressel

SETTINGMaycomb, Alabama

1935


P R O D U C T I O N T E A M

MICHAEL CALABRESE (Stage Manager) is happy to be working on his first production with Landmark Community Theater in the job he feels most comfortable in. Michael can usually be found loitering about at the Phoenix Stage Company running lights, sound, or doing whatever else may be needed at the time. Previous on-stage credits include “Female Transport” as Sarge, “Death by Fatal Murder” as Inspector Pratt, “Cover of Life” as Tommy, and “Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol” as the Bogle. When he is not at a theater Michael spends his days working as an independent insurance agent in Monroe, CT. Many thanks to Lucia for bringing him into this project and allowing him to work with such a talented cast.

LUCIA DRESSEL (Director) is proud and honored to directing one of her favorite novels and movie, To Kill a Mockingbird. Lucia’s directorial experiences include: “The Diary of Anne Frank”, “King and I”, “Arsenic and Old Lace”, “Extremities”, “Master Class”, “Neverland Christmas”, “Footloose”, “Sound of Music”, “Plaza Suite”, and “The Cemetery Club”. Among her favorite on-stage credits are: Amanda Wingfield in “The Glass Menagerie”, Bloody Mary in “South Pacific”, Widow Paroo in “Music Man”, Mrs. Potts in “Beauty and the Beast”, Annie Wilkes in “Misery”, and Ida Strauss in “Titanic”, the Musical. Her upcoming directing ventures include “Romeo and Juliet” with the Naugatuck Teen Theatre, “Music Man” with the Blessed Sacrament Children’s Theatre, and “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” with the Phoenix Stage Company. Lucia is a full time English Professor at Post University, and a published author. She resides in Middlebury with her talented husband, John, and their four beautiful children. Bringing this story to the stage has been a dream come true. Thank you to the production staff, crew, and the incredible actors. A special “hey ma’am” to Miss Nelle Harper Lee. Thanks for this timeless story of hope and tolerance.

KATE LUURTSEMA (Costumer) is excited to join another talented production team at Landmark Community Theatre. Past production credits include Arsenic & Old Lace, Ring of Fire & Memphis as Stage Manager/Costumes. The cast & crew of To Kill a Mockingbird were a joy to work with. Lucia & Michael provided wonderful leadership and the many volunteers lending their time & talents deserve ample thanks!

CHET OSTROSKI (Fight Choreographer) has a long history of leading, supporting, and ensemble roles in community and college-level theatrical productions throughout the CT area. He has thus far culminated in his role as co-founder and Vice-President of Backyard Theater Ensemble, a small non-profit theater company dedicated to bringing "your world, onstage.” He served as a Director's Assistant in numerous Cheshire High School award winning musical productions. He is a practicing Martial Artist of 20 years and has directed many stage combat projects and performances. Credits include: “Loose Ends”, “Shadow Box”, “1959 Pink Thunderbird”, “Five Women Wearing the Same Dress”, “Dead Man's Cell Phone”, “Belleville”, “The Glass Menagerie” as Tom, “Guys 'n Dolls”, “Footloose”, “Cabaret.” Chet attended both Western CT State University and the University of New Haven. He currently works for Alexion Pharmaceuticals.

TINA PARZIALE (Lighting Design) got her first taste of theatre magic at the Warner Theatre when she was eleven and has been hooked ever since. After teaching theatre in Hartford for six years, she began freelancing as an Art Director and Property Master in NYC. She has designed for various commercials and editorials. On the side, she is the artistic director of Backyard Theater Ensemble in Hamden, CT. She’d like to thank Lucia for the opportunity and Michael for keeping us all organized.

EVAN SEIDE (Set Design) has been working in a variety of capacities in the entertainment world for the past twenty years. Recent credits include Production Designer for Animal Planets "PuppyBowl", CNN's "This is an Apple" and Hershey’s "Kiss the Holidays.” He's also done various design work for Stephen Misel, Annie Lebowitz and Vogue. Some stage lighting and set designs include "Lauryn Hill - Rock the Bells Tour" and Greatful Deads "Mickey Rooney.” And, Lucia is my favorite. @ev_ny

KAREN BROOKS WILLEY (Prop Master) has worked on many area productions as Properties Mistress, Stage Manager, scenic artist, and crew. Director of the WTCAE production of Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe. She is grateful for the opportunity to work with Lucia and her talented production team on this classic American story.


C A S T

CATHY ANNULLI (Stephanie) “Almost Maine”, “Love, Loss and What I Wore”, “Sylvia” (CTAW), “Act One”, “The Actor”, “You Can’t Take It With You” (The Gary Olivia Theater), “Christmas Carol”, “Cemetery Club”, “Miracle

on 34th St” (LCT). So excited to be back at the wonderful Opera House with such an amazing cast and director!

PETER BARD (Boo Radley, Ensemble, Crew) is excited to be once again performing on the Thomaston Opera House stage as Boo Radley in this production of To Kill a Mockingbird. Peter has performed in shows such as

Mary Poppins as Mr. Banks (TOH), Lurch in Addams Family (Warner Theatre), Cousin Kevin in Tommy (Warner Theatre) Edna in Hairspray (NVCC), as well as Corny Collins in Hairspray (TOH). He would like to give a big thanks to his wife for putting up with all the time he is gone for rehearsal. Break legs to the entire cast.

GRACE CARPENTER (Ensemble) “A Christmas Carol” “Sweeney Todd” at Landmark Community Theatre. (Assistant Stage Manager) “Memphis” and “Becketts Shorts”. She would like to thank her Mom, Dad, and best

friend Kylie for always supporting her.

DOUG DESOUSA (Ensemble) is very happy to be making his acting debut with Landmark Community Theatre. Doug has lived in Plymouth, CT for over 35 years. He thanks his girlfriend Patti for encouraging him

to audition.

BOBBIE CELINE DOHERTY (Scout) “Music Man” (Amaryllis, Theatre by the Sea), “A Wonderful Life” (u/s Zuzu, Beth performed both, Goodspeed Opera House), “Meet Me in St Louis” (Tootie, Ocean State Theatre Company),

“Nutcracker Sweets” and “A Christmas Ghost Story” (Mystic Seaport Museum Theatre), “South Pacific” (Jerome) and “The Sound of Music” (Gretl, The Granite Theatre); The

Sound of Music (Gretl) and Cinderella (mouse, Stonington High School), many productions with East Lyme Regional Theater—most notably “Beauty and the Beast, Jr” (LeFou), Lifetime movie “Wishin’ and Hopin’” and webseries “Welcome to Grandpaville”. Bobbie would like to thank LCT for this wonderful opportunity!

JIM DOHERTY (Bob Ewell) is appearing for the first time on the Thomaston Opera House stage. Previous performances, at the Granite Theatre in Westerly, RI, include “Rumors” (Officer Welch), “South Pacific” (Lt.

Buzz Adams), and “Old Love” (Bud) and, at the Mission Hill Theater in Boston, “Harvey” (Dr. Sanderson) and “Plaza Suite” (Roy Hubley). He is a member of the band 20 AFTER, a folk/pop trio that plays venues from Baltimore to Boston. Jim would like to thank his wife, Melanie for her support and his twelve-year-old daughter, Bobbie (also in this cast), who inspired him to resume his acting career.

BENJAMIN DRESSEL (Ensemble) is thrilled to be back on the Opera House stage, and performing in this timeless piece. Ben recently performed as Peter Pan in the world premiere of “Neverland Christmas” at the

Phoenix Stage Company. He has also performed in “Ragtime”, “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”, “Guys and Dolls”, “Nuncrackers”, as Lefou in “Beauty and the Beast”, and as Lun Tha in “The King and I”. When not on stage, Ben plays the saxophone and soccer, and recently decided he would like to have a career in Politics/Government. He lives in Middlebury with his parents, and is the adored baby brother to Dan, Jenny, and Kate. Ben is incredibly grateful to be a part of such an important show, and so proud of his cast mates.

SHANELLE DUPRE (Mrs. Dubose) is very excited to make her community theater debut with Landmark Community Theatre. I grew up going to performances at the Thomaston Opera House and I am over joyed

to be performing on the stage. Thanks to the whole cast and crew along with my family and friends for all their love and support.


C A S T

LOU GUERTIN (Heck Tate) has previously appeared as Mr. Simmons in “Memphis” and as Luther Billis in “South Pacific”, both with Landmark at TOH. Lucia, thanks for casting the sheriff with a limp! And for

letting me experience my first drama with this American classic. Michele from Maine, friends and family who keep coming out—thanks for all the support and patience. To Danette—my biggest thanks for all that you do and all that you are for me. And a big shout out to Teagan. “Buck up, put a smile on, and stop whining.”

JUSTIN HENRY (Tom Robinson) makes his debut on the Landmark Community Theater’s stage. He is excited to have met and work with some beautiful people. Hailing from a small town in NJ, he is looking

to make his mark in Connecticut. A few of his favorite roles include, Coalhouse Walker Jr. “Ragtime”, with the Connecticut Theater Company. Imperial commissioner in Puccini's “Madame Butterfly” with the Northern Lights Opera Company, Curtis Jackson, “Sister Act” the musical at the Levoy Theater, Judge Turpin, in “Sweeney Todd” and Pontius Pilate in “Jesus Christ Super Star.” Although he just got his feet wet, he intends on being visible in the theater circuit around the Nutmeg State. He would like to wish "Casts and Crutches" to his fellow cast mates. Until the next one!

GAVIN KAVANAUGH (Ensemble) "Annie Jr.," "Peter Rabbit is Lost," "Elf," "Winnie the Pooh," "Penny and the Pirates," and "Rapunzel." Thanks to the New Britain Youth Theater for sparking my love of acting and

to the director, cast and crew, of this production, for allowing me to be part of something so awesome.

OLIVIA LANTERI (Mayella Ewell) “Angel In the Night” (Mania),“Sweeney Todd” (Nurse/Ensemble), “Beauty and the Beast” (Belle). Huge thank you to my amazing cast and crew for all of their hard work, dedication,

and friendship. Another special thank you to my

friends and family (especially my parents) for continuing to support me in the arts!

LUCAS PECK (Jem Finch) is thrilled to be a part of this talented cast and crew! He was last seen on the Landmark Community stage in “It’s A Wonderful Life” (Tommy Bailey), “The Happy Elf ” (Ensemble) and TCS Drama

Club “Annie Jr.” (Oliver Warbucks). When not on stage, Lucas enjoys piano and his theater arts program at the Waterbury Arts Magnet School where he is a 7th grader. He would like to thank the director for this amazing opportunity and his family and friends for their constant love and support with his many endeavours!

AVA PIOTROWSKI (Ensemble) "Season of Light" (Villager and Wolf ), "Frosty the Snowman" (Officer Bump), "A Charlie Brown Christmas" (Ensemble), "James and the Giant Peach" (Sea Captain), "A Midsummer's

Night Dream" (Fairy); Thanks to Aidan, Mom, Dad, Grandma, and Grandpa for their love and support.

MIKE RILEY (Judge Taylor) is back for his second production with LCT, having played Bert the Cop in last season's production of "It's a Wonderful Life". He has been very close to the Thomaston Opera House for 37 years, living

across the parking lot on Grove Street. Recently retired, Mike renews his interest in community theater which began with the Village Players in Somers, CT back in the 1970's. A former member of U.S. Senator Chris Dodd's staff and President of the Motor Transport Association of Connecticut, Riley admits that he has been infected with the theater bug. It is a pleasure to work with such talented people both on and off stage and an honor to appear in such a moving and iconic American story.

JOSIAH ROWE (Atticus) Scarecrow, “The Wizard of Oz” (Thomaston Opera House); Bhaer, “Little Women”, Barnaby, “Babes in Toyland”, Lefou, “Beauty and the Beast” (Hartford Children’s Theatre); Kaffee,


C A S T

“A Few Good Men” (Norris Little Theatre); “Amadeus”, “The Producers” (Warner Theatre); “Macbeth”, “Merry Wives of Windsor”, “The Learned Ladies” (Capitol Classics). Deep love and many thanks to Erin, Ashlin and Diana.

JANETTE.D.SCOTT (Actress) “A Raisin in the Sun”, “Little Foxes”, “Sunshine Boys”, “Twelve Angry Women”, “Extremities”, “Proposals”, “Vagina Monologues”. (Director) Mattatuck Community College, “Agnes of God”, “Life

with Father”, “Steel Magnolias”. Naugatuck Valley Community College, “The Bad Seed”, “The Children’s Hour”, “The Sister’s Rosensweig”. Lincoln Theatre-New Haven Arts and Ideas Festival, “Queen of Hearts”. Thanks to my Mother for her strength, my friends and family for their love and support, And to all the directors and actors that I have worked with over the last 30+ years, I am glad you helped make me love theatre.

MICHAEL SCOTT III (Reverend Sykes) is excited to return to the Thomaston Opera House stage. Past acting credits include Sister Act (Eddie Souther) with the Simsbury Theatre Guild, The Full Monty (Horse) with

WTG, Hairspray (Gilbert) with LCT and Jekyll & Hyde (Ensemble) with CCT. Many thanks to F. Ward, D. Ozmun, M. Perry, his many family and friends for all of the immense love and support shown. To this AMAZING Cast, BREAK LEGS!

DIANNA WALLER (Miss Maudie) is delighted to be back on the Thomaston Opera House Stage, after last being seen in “Hairspray” (Authority Figure).Some other local roles include: “The Addams Family” (Alice

Beineke) “9-5: The Musical” (Judy Bernly), “All My Sons” (Anne Deever), “Greetings” (Emily Gorski), “Blithe Spirit” (Ruth Condomine), “Speed the Plow” (Karen), “Miss Abigail’s Guide to Dating, Mating, and Marriage” (Miss Abigail), and “The Diary of Anne Frank” (Mrs. Van Dam). Dianna would like to thank Lucia for the opportunity, her real life leading man, Jim, for being her rock, her incredible parents

for putting theatre in her life, and Christopher Gladysz–always. Equality is the soul of Liberty; there is, in fact, no liberty without it– Frances Wright

TYLER WHITE (Court Clerk) Theater–“Working,” “The King and I,” “Willy Wonka,” “Godspell,” “Shrek The Musical,” “Alice in Wonderland,” “Alladin” and “The Lion King” Movies–“Wishin’ and Hopin’” and “Dark

Haul” Tyler had a Principal Role of “Guy” in the TV Series “The Cobblestone Corridor”. Tyler would like to thank Director Lucia Dressel, the wonderful cast/crew and his family!!

ERIC WILCZAK (Mr. Cunningham, Mr. Gilmer) – “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare, Abridged” (Director, Goshen Players), “Cops” (George, Phoenix Stage Company), “Arsenic and Old

Lace” (Rev. Harper, Lt. Rooney, LCT), “The Little Mermaid” (Director, LCT); Thank you Mom and Dad for giving me the gift of theatre and thank you Becky for saying YES.

BEN STONE-ZELMAN (Dill) is thrilled to return to the Thomaston Opera House having previously performed with LCT as Michael Banks in “Mary Poppins” and Flounder in “The Little Mermaid”. Ben

recently performed with Goodspeed Musicals as Randolph in “Bye Bye Birdie” and Tommy Bailey in “A Wonderful Life”, as well as at Hartford Stage as Boy Scrooge and Fred’s Son in “A Christmas Carol”. Other favorite roles include Edmund in “The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe” with Pearwater Productions, Little Boy in “Ragtime” with CTC, Jackie in “Sigourney Square Park” with Pearwater Productions and Young Karl Stossel in “A Christmas Schooner” with CTC. Ben is a professional voice-over artist with credits including Nickelodeon’s “Becca’s Bunch” (Lead), debuting in Summer 2018, Gen-Z’s podcast, “Ghost of Jessica Majors” (Luke Majors) and a new podcast, “The Weirdness”, currently in production.


B O A R D O F D I R E C T O R S

GARY KINGSBURY, Chair, is a lifelong Thomaston resident and local educator who has been recognized by numerous local, regional, and national organizations for his advocacy for people with disabilities in the area of arts education. He has been involved with the Thomaston Opera House in numerous production and performing capacities.

FOSTER EVANS REESE, Vice-Chair, is a technical software consultant and private contractor residing in Southbury. Foster has been involved in several community theatres in the region and sits on other non-profit community theatre boards. At Thomaston Opera House, Foster has participated in over 15 productions as director, choreographer, and actor.

JIM WHITNEY, Treasurer, lives Waterbury, CT and has served as Director of the Western CT Convention & Visitors Bureau for the last 25 years. Jim has a background and education in Marketing and Arts/Entertainment Management. Jim is past president and treasurer of the CT Tourism Association and has served on the marketing committee of the CT Tourism Council.

JUAN CARDONA, SR., Member, is a retired Chemical Engineer and project manager from Shelton, CT. He is the treasurer for the Connecticut Valley Theatre Organ Society (CVTOS) Mr. Cardona has served CVTOS and the Thomaston Opera House for over twenty years as part of the maintenance crew, restoring the organ and various volunteer capacities.

COURTNEY DERALEAU, Member, is a Burlington resident and mother of four. She brings a background in funds development for non-profit with experience in media relations. She has actively been involved in the Thomaston Opera House since 2013, serving on the Volunteer and Golf Tournament Committees.

STATE REP. JOHN PISCOPO, Member, continues the family tradition of volunteer work for the Thomaston Opera House. He is a life long resident of Thomaston. He has served as a State Representative since 1988. John holds a degree in History and Political Science from Eastern CT State University. He has also volunteered for several town boards and non-profit organizations.

RICK RICE, Member, is Founder and President of CDR Insurance Group, Inc. in Waterbury, CT. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1972-1975 and is a Vietnam Veteran. Rick is a member and former president of Thomaston Rotary. He and his family are residents of Thomaston and past subscribers and donors to the Thomaston Opera House.

PAULA ROLLESTON, Member, is a retired professional in marketing and advertising living in Litchfield. Past positions include national sales director for Rodale Custom Content and Marketing, director of national accounts for Yahoo, and director of national accounts for the New Yorker. She is an avid patron of the arts, and brings skills in marketing, branding, funds development, and long range planning to our board.

GEORGE P. SEABOURNE, Member, is an Attorney and partner at Seabourne & Malley, Attorneys at Law, located on main street in Thomaston. He is an active community member, serving as Chairman of the Thomaston Savings Bank Board of Directors and as current President for the Thomaston Rotary Club.


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