Join us for the sixth annual Pegasus PlayLab, a celebration of innovation and creativity in theatre! At Pegasus PlayLab, we serve as an arts incubator for the next generation of theatre. A place for creativity, passion, and storytelling, dedicated to nurturing emerging playwrights and launching new works into the spotlight. Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of theatre as you witness the early stages of development for these new productions.
Festival FAQ
What is Pegasus PlayLab?
Pegasus PlayLab is a festival dedicated to developing plays by emerging playwrights. Playwrights are invited to UCF's campus for a two-week residency to develop their new play with students and faculty. Audiences are to hear staged readings and experience a full production of a new play first workshopped at Orlando Shakes’ PlayFest. Follow these plays into the next stage of development and be part of the creative process with playwrights, casts and artistic teams!
When is Pegasus PlayLab?
Pegasus PlayLab spans six weeks starting mid-May through the end of June. Selected playwrights are expected to commit to a two-week residency within that timeframe.
What Should I Expect at a Workshop?
What you will see on stage is the culmination of 8 days of rehearsals, script changes and discussions between the actors, playwright, director, dramaturg, and designers. Actors will bring the new work to life in front of the audience with scripts in-hand and minimal staging.
After the performance, discuss what you saw and heard with the playwright, director, cast and the rest of the creative team. You play a crucial role in the work’s development through your feedback.
What Should I Expect at a Full Developmental Production?
This is a play that has already been through workshops and readings and is ready for a fully-staged production with a set, costumes, lighting and a full rehearsal schedule.
This does not mean that this is the final version of the script. After developmental productions, the playwright will use what they saw and the feedback you give to continue to revise the script.
How do I get involved as a UCF student?
All UCF students can audition to be in the readings and workshops. Auditions for Pegasus PlayLab are typically held in March. Check the Theatre UCF Production Audition page for the most up to date audition information. Design, technology and stage management students may also be assigned roles on the performances.
How Do I Submit My Play?
Please upload a draft of a full-length play and complete the required questions on the Pegasus PlayLab Google Form.
We are seeking four full-length plays, including devised works and Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA) pieces, which we will rehearse for two weeks in collaboration with the playwright and subsequently present as workshop productions. There is a possibility that one play will be fully mounted into a production.
As an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, UCF encourages all qualified applicants to apply, including women, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and members of traditionally underrepresented populations.
If you have any questions, please email [email protected].
Pegasus PlayLab 2024 Package
This package includes all three workshops — Dance Night (Musical), Daring to Dream and Desert Oceans–and the full production of What’s in Store. Package benefits include: priority seating, free ticket exchanges and exclusive ticket discounts!
$60 Standard | $40 UCF Student | $40 UCF Faculty/Staff
Ticket Package on Sale Now!Workshops | Studio 1
Dance Night
Playwright: Kevin P. Hill | Music: Zev Burrows | Director: Michael Jablonski
Set during the 1930s, DANCE NIGHT delves into the unbreakable connection between a mother and her son as they try to survive in a world full of shattered dreams. Caught in a never-ending dance between their aspirations and the harsh reality of life in a small town, Elsinore and Morry long for a way out of the darkness surrounding them. Dance Night is a new art medium inspired by the short story of American novelist Dawn Powell.
May 31–June 1, 2024 at 7 PM | $15, $10 student
Tickets on Sale Now!Dance Night Playbill
Dance Night
Playwright: Kevin P Hill
Composer: Zev Burrows
Director: Michael D. Jablonski
Associate Director: Ty Simons*
Music Director: Terry Thomas
Dramaturg: Cory Kennedy Barrow*
Production Stage Manager: Lila McMorris*
Stage Managers: Bella Llanes* , Jacob Wilson* , Ethan Cabral*
Producer: Ashley Kate Adams
*Theatre UCF student
CAST
MORRY ABBOTT: Tyler Stevens*
NETTIE FARRELL: Maddy Poston*
JEN ST. CLAIR: Alyssa Vincent*
MRS. ST. CLAIR / HULDA BAUER: Rachel Yurchick*
BILL DELANEY: Christian Perry*
ELSINORE ABBOTT: Kim Sava
HARRY FISCHER: Chris Bresciani*
HERMANN BAUER: Wyatt Hubbard*
HUNT RUSSELL / SHORTY: Gavin Nakia White*
DODE O’CONNELL: Lauren Bowrosen*
CHARLES ABBOTT: Nathan Olmeda*
MRS. PEPPER: Sabrina Marks*
MRS. DELANEY / MRS. FISCHER / Fight Captain: Tara D. Deady
FAY: Maya Carpentiere*
*Theatre UCF student
MUSICIAN
Violinist: Abby Goodman*
*Theatre UCF student
DESIGN TEAM
Design and Technology Advisor: Vandy Wood
Lighting: Delta Russell*
Sound: Tabby Dennis*
Scenic: Ryan Devane*, Ashlyn Witterschein*
Costumes: Foster Elkins*
SHOW CREW
Max Benmoha*, Samantha Tobares*, Genevieve Holman*
SHOP CREWS
Scene Shop Crew: Shannon Daly*, Ryan Devane*, Baeta Mischker*, Nicholas Salerno*, Ashlyn Witterschein*, Reese Doman*, Paul Rodriguez*
Props: Griffin Greene*
Electrics Shop: Sevannah Clarington*, Taylor Falzarano*, Delta Russell*, Sam Mustaine*, Thomas Blair*, Veronica Rosalis*
Sound Shop: Tabby Dennis*, Shelby Rice*
Costume Shop: Foster Elkins*, Sabrina Rizzo*, Nia Jenkins*, Dennis Davis*
FRONT OF HOUSE/BOX OFFICE
Emily Duncanson*, Helen Sanford*, Gabriela Astwood*, Max Mitchell*, Paige Wallace*, Amber Wheeler*
PEGASUS PLAYLAB/Theatre UCF
Artistic Director: Julia Listengarten
Design and Technology Advisor: Vandy Wood
Stage Manager Advisor: Claudia Lynch
Production Manager: James Cleveland
Production Sound/Design Advisor: Olivia Deiter
Production Electrician: Beth McAshan
Costume Shop Manager: Allison Rexrode
Costume Shop Workroom Supervisor: Amanda Roberts
Technical Director: Tramaine Berryhill
Assistant Technical Director: Kristen Garza
Artistic Associate / Company Manager: Leigh Green*
Marketing Communications Manager: McKenzie Lakey
Marketing Coordinator: Jessica Compton
FOH/ Box Office Manager: Imari Point-du-Jour
* Theatre UCF student
Cast Bios
Lauren Bowrosen (Dode O'Connell) is a rising sophomore in the BFA Musical Theatre Program at The University of Central Florida. She has been seen on the Theatre UCF stage in The Prom (Swing), and Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (Swing). Her theatre credits include an Applause Award win for her portrayal of Janis Sarkisian in Mean Girls, Velma Kelly in Chicago, and Elsa in Frozen Jr. @laurenbowrosen
Chris Bresciani (Harry Fishcher) is a nonbinary, Hispanic theater artist who holds a B.A in Theatre from UCF and is now pursuing their MFA in Theatre for Young Audiences at UCF. Chris’ past theater credits include. A Christmas Carol at Actors Playhouse (Solicitor, Mr. Fezziwig & Ghost of Christmas Present), City Theatre’s Shortcuts Tour (Actor). Chris is also a seasonal performer at Seaworld Orlando and was last seen in Mrs. Clause’ Magic Kitchen (Kirby the Elf). Other theater credits include, City Theatre’s Shortcuts Tour (PSM), Boeing, Boeing (Director/Fight Choreographer). chrisgbresciani.com
Maya Carpentiere (Fay) is a third-year student in the BA Theatre Studies program. This is her Theatre UCF debut. Other theatre credits include Seussical (Hunch/Fish/Circus Performer), Rocky Horror Picture Show (Phantom, U/S Columbia), and West Side Story (Shark, Featured Dancer).
Tara D. Deady (Mrs. Delaney) is an Associate Professor-Musical Theatre Voice Specialist and the Coordinator for the MA in Musical Theatre Pedagogy. She has served as a vocal director or music director for 11 shows at Theatre UCF and is the co-director, along with each senior MT BFA class, for the annual showcase Knight to Shine. She has been seen on the Theatre UCF stage in Deathtrap (Helga ten Dorp), The Fantasticks (Bellomy) and Baby (Arlene). Other theatre credits include ReuKnighted: UCF Sings 50 Years of Hits (Producer/Director/Arranger/Performer) Off-Broadway at Feinstein’s 54 Below, the only 7th production of the epic The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby (Miss Knag/Mrs. Wittiterly/et al.) at Orlando Shakes and Gypsy (Rose). TaraDDeady.com
Wyatt Hubbard (Mr. Sanderson / Herman Bauer) is a second year transfer student in the B.A. Theatre Studies program. He has most recently been seen in Project Spotlight’s production of Irreverent (Aidyn / U/S Frankie). This is his first time working with Pegasus Playlab and he couldn’t be more excited!
Sabrina Marks (Mrs. Pepper) is a rising senior in the Creative Writing Program. She made her Theatre UCF debut in APO’s Stuart Little (Storekeeper, others). She has done dramaturgy and playwriting with Project Spotlight.
Nathan Olmeda (Charles Abbott) is a second-year in the MFA Acting Program. Theatre UCF credits include Sweeney Todd (Ensemble, U/S Sweeney Todd), The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui (Ernesto Roma), Bright Star (Daddy Murphy), The Prom (Godspell Ensemble, U/S Barry Glickman), and Peter and the Starcatcher (Smee). Professional Credits: Unto These Hills (Prospector Daniel/Deputy), Little Shop of Horrors (Mr. Mushnik). He enjoys golfing and is an avid Super Smash Brothers player.
Christian Perry (Bill Delaney) is a second year in the B.A. Theatre Studies program. He made his TheatreUCF debut in Peter and the Starcatcher (Ensemble, U/S Aster and others).
Maddy Poston (Nettie Farell) is an upcoming sophomore in the BFA Acting program. Maddy recently directed and produced Gruesome Playground Injuries - presented by APO. Her credits also include the roles of Cassidy from Appropriate at the ensemble company, Martha from The Secret Garden from Montverde Academy, and Lola Stover in Parade at the Garden Theatre.
Kim Sava (Elsinore) has enjoyed an illustrious career as an Actor, Singer, and Dancer across the United States and Canada. An original Broadway company member of Beetlejuice, Kim also appeared in the first National tour of Matilda and in productions on many prestigious, regional stages including North Shore Music Theatre, Fulton Opera House, Alliance Theatre, Paper Mill Playhouse, and Goodspeed Opera House.
She is the recipient of multiple awards, including a Vicki Award and the New Hampshire Theatre Award for Best Supporting Actress. Her most coveted role to date is that of new Mom to son, Penn.
Tyler Stevens (Morry Abbot) is a third-year in the MFA Acting program. He holds a BFA in Theatre Performance from Virginia Commonwealth University and has been seen on the Theatre UCF stage in Sweeney Todd (Ensemble/Pirelli U/S), Metamorphoses (Orpheus/Others), As You Like It (Orlando), and Arturo Ui (Caruther/Greenwool). Professional credits include Rabbit Hole (Jason), Brighton Beach Memoirs (Eugene), Admissions (Charlie) and Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead (Rosencrantz). He has won two Richmond Theatre Critic Circle Awards and dearly misses home in Richmond, Virginia. www.tylerestevens.com
Alyssa Vincent (Jen St. Clair) is a rising senior in the BFA Acting program. She has previously been seen in Project Spotlights Irreverent! (Jaedyn/ U/S Dinah) and was in Pegasus Playlabs summertime:an interlude (Windy) last year! When not acting, She can be seen in Production Electrician and lighting roles. She is super excited for this amazing opportunity and hopes you enjoy Dance Night!
Gavin Nakia White (Hunt Russell) is a Senior in the BFA Acting program. He was previously in TheatreUCF’s production of As You Like It (Touchstone).
Rachel Yurchick (Mrs. St. Clair/Hulda Bauer) is a senior in the B.A. Theatre Studies program. She was recently a part of the Theatre UCF Pegasus Playlab in Summertime (an interlude) ( U/S Kyri and Trigg) and Go Like Saints (U/S Hazel and Nell). She is also a part of the Political Science program double majoring with a track in International Relations.
Creative Team Bios
Ashley Kate Adams (Developmental Producer) is an award-winning Actress, Producer, #1 Best-selling Author, Director & Educator originally hailing from Louisville, Kentucky who made her Broadway Debut at the age of 23 in the Tony Award Winning Revival of LA CAGE AUX FOLLES. She has appeared in television series, such as Netflix’s "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt," can be heard in series such as HBO’s "True Detective" and she filmed the video game phenomenon "Red Dead Redemption 2" for over five years doubling in the lead role of Sadie. She began her Production Company, AKA Studio Productions, in 2011 and their work has been in over 200 film festivals including debuting original properties back-to-back years at the LA Film Festival. Her book, #BYOP: Be Your Own Producer, debuted as the #1 Book in the Performing Arts Industry & is the top-selling book on independent producing at “The Drama Bookshop” in New York City. She’s Co-Founder / Producer of NO REVERSE RECORDS based in NYC & Jackson, TN and is grateful to be a Professor at the University of Memphis-Lambuth in the Music & Entertainment program. In Jackson, she is co-founder of the Vintage Makers Music & Arts Festival. She holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Cincinnati Conservatory of Music. www.ashleykateadams.com @ashleykateadams
Cory Kennedy Barrow (Dramaturg) is a graduate of the MFA Theatre for Young Audiences program at the University of Central Florida and holds a BA in Theatre Studies from the University of Florida. Her recent theatrical work includes Peter and the Starcatcher (Dramaturg, Theatre UCF), Metamorphoses (Associate Director, Theatre UCF), Dear Me in 2023 (Playwright, commissioned by Orlando Family Stage), and The Interference (Associate Director, Theatre UCF), and In My Wildest Dreams (Director, Orlando Family Stage).
Zev Burrows (Composer) is a composer for stage and screen. He has provided original music and lyrics for dozens of projects, including the Academy Award-qualifying documentaries “Sky Blossom” and “Unconditional” (both directed by MSNBC news anchor Richard Lui), and regularly has music featured on network and cable shows such as ABC 20/20, Dateline NBC, NBC Today, and On the Case With Paula Zahn. He is currently writing the musical “Food For Thought” with lyricist/librettist Makena Metz, which received a reading at New Musicals Inc. in November 2023. His musical “The Pledge” was selected for the 2019 New Works Lab at James Madison University, where it received a two-week workshop and two performances. Zev regularly assists composers and orchestrators in the greater New York area, and has had the opportunity to work with industry luminaries such as Alan Menken and Doug Besterman. Most recently, he was the music assistant for the premiere production of “Sugar Hill: The Ellington/Strayhorn Nutcracker”, which played at Chicago’s Auditorium Theatre in December 2023. He is a member of ASCAP, ASMAC, AFM Local 802, the Dramatists Guild, the Production Music Association, and the Society of Composers & Lyricists, and resides in New York City. zevburrowsmusic.com
Ethan Cabral (Assistant Stage Manager) is a first-year student in the BFA Stage Management program. He has worked on UCF’s Peter and the Starcatcher (Fly Rail Operator), StarVista’s 70’s Rock and Romance Cruise (Assistant Production Manager), and Carnival Celebrations Inaugural with Kool and the Gang (Assistant Production Manager).
Kevin P. Hill (Playwright) began his theatrical career as a dancer and actor on the National and International tours of Hello, Dolly! and A Chorus Line. An accomplished artistic visionary, he was an assistant on the Broadway productions of On The Twentieth Century and Guys and Dolls. He is an award-winning director/choreographer who has worked on more than 200 productions throughout the United States. Kevin has collaborated with such artists as Alice Ripley, Cady Huffman, Josh Groban, Kathleen Turner, Joanne Worley, Marin Mazzie, Jonathan Groff, Jeannette Bayardelle, and many others. As a Professor of Dance, he has worked on the faculties of Penn State, Kansas State, and the Boston Conservatory. Kevin received his undergraduate degree from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and his MBA from the University of Southern Indiana. Kevin is a proud AEA and SDC member and is currently Producing Artistic Director for North Shore Music Theatre and Theatre by the Sea. Kevin and his husband, Matthew, are honored to be co-producers on the recently acclaimed new musical Gun and Powder. chappellhillproductions.com
Bella Llanes (Assistant Stage Manager) is a first-year student in the BFA Stage Management program. She has previously worked on Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr. (Production Assistant/Fly Rail Operator) and La Cage aux Folles (Assistant Stage Manager). She is looking forward to working on Rent (Assistant Stage Manager) in the Fall!
Lila McMorris (Production Stage Manager) is a first-year student in the BFA Stage Management program. She has participated in UCF’s Peter and the Starcatcher (Production Assistant), Project Spotlight’s Irreverent (Assistant Stage Manager and Programmer), and UCF Celebrates the Arts (Stage Manager).
Tyler “Ty” Simons (Associate Director) Is a second-year MFA TYA candidate with a B.A in Theatre Studies and a minor in Education! His previous credits include: Regional Theatre; A Christmas Carol (Assistant Director, Orlando Shakes), The Facts Are As Follows (Dramaturg, Orlando Shakes), Theatre UCF: Irreverent! (Director) Working (Assistant Director), Affinity Lunch Minutes (Assistant Director). Upcoming works include: Rhinoceros (Associate Director) as part of Theatre UCF 2024-25 season! Thank you, Ma, Dad, and my big past, present and future theatre family none of this would have been possible without you all. MAKE ART NOT WAR! @tylersiimons
Jacob Wilson (Assistant Stage Manager) is a first-year student in the BFA Stage Management program. They have worked on UCF’s The Prom (Spotlight Operator) and Peter and the Starcatcher (QLab Programmer/Operator). He also worked on The Marriage of Figaro (Production Stage Manager) which was produced for UCF Celebrates the Arts.
Playwright Note
It was over twenty-three years ago when I first started writing DANCE NIGHT. A friend recommended a book to me, saying, “I think this would make a great piece for you.” As someone with a learning disability, it took me quite some time to finally sit down and read the short story. However, once I did, I was immediately captivated by Dawn Powell’s prose and her detailed characterizations. The words seemed to grab hold of me, and I couldn’t put it down.
Adapting Powell’s words, I found that though Morry is the book's protagonist, my heart was drawn to Elsinore. Her story resonated with me, pushing me to tell it through dance—our shared escape from reality. I brought together a team to help develop the piece, but like Elsinore, I lost my voice and struggled to find the right way to present our journey. As time passed and the license to develop the piece expired, our team dispersed, and it was just Elsinore and I left alone.
Jump ahead to the pandemic when the world as we knew it suddenly stopped. Despite my aversion to ever experiencing a pandemic again, I am grateful for the opportunity it provided me. With everything closed and on pause, I was able to finally complete my undergraduate degree and even pursue an MBA. During this period, I worked on an independent study project with a supportive professor who helped foster my writing skills. I revisited DANCE NIGHT and structured it in the way I had always envisioned, finding inspiration in my talented friend Kim Sava. I obtained the rights to Dawn Powell's book and began to weave my story with hers. Lamptown Ohio became my hometown of Waltham Massechustes, the characters became a reflection of myself and my community, and everything seemed to fall perfectly into place once again.
Accompanied by Zev Burrows' enchanting and exquisite music, DANCE NIGHT has become the tale that I yearn to share. Each person has a history, aspirations, and moments where they wish to break free from someone or something. Stay true to your journey, stand firm on your beliefs, and narrate the story of YOUR life as you desire. Sit back and relish in the experience of DANCE NIGHT.
Daring to Dream
Lead Facilitator: Sage Tokach
A devised theatre project that brings together students with and without disabilities to create a theatrical piece around themes of dreams. This project builds on the 2023 Building a Shared Home process, but participants will create an original story.
June 7-8, 2024 at 7 PM | $15, $10 student
Tickets on Sale Now!Daring to Dream
Funded by the Pabst Steinmetz Arts and Wellness Foundation)
Facilitators: Sage Tokach, Christian Anderson, Caroline Cutillo*
Community Consultants: Isabelle Aviles, Elyse Mundelein
Guest facilitators: David Matteson, William Tayek
Dramaturg: Vidal Treadwell*
Musician: Ralph Krumins
Production Stage Manager: Elizabeth McDermott*
Stage Managers: Vivianette Rivera-Rodriguez*, Jaz Griffiths*
Recruitment: Gabriella Headley*
*Theatre UCF student
FACULTY ADVISORS
IDD Consultants and Pabst Steinmetz Grant Facilitators)
Kaileigh Anne Tayek: Director of the School of Arts and Health
Ashley Lewis: CFCArts Music Therapy Clinical Program Manager
Keri Watson: UCF School of Visual Arts and Design
Missy Glavey: Independent Inclusive Education Consultant
*Theatre UCF student
CAST
Isabelle Aviles
River Banks*
Caroline Cutillo*
Matthew Gennell*
Caroline Hull*
Justin Isaac
Aidan Leary*
Kirby Lee*
Sophia Mazo
Nick McGrew
Elyse Mundelein
Mackenzie Wood
*Theatre UCF student
DESIGN TEAM
Design & Technology Advisor: Vandy Wood
Lighting: Sevannah Clarington*
Scenery: Nicholas Salerno* & Baeta Mischker*
SHOW CREW
Samantha Tobares*, Max Benmoha*, Genevieve Holman*
SHOP CREWS
Scene Shop Crew: Shannon Daly*, Ryan Devane*, Baeta Mischker*, Nicholas Salerno*, Ashlyn Witterschein*, Reese Doman*, Paul Rodriguez*
Props: Griffin Greene*
Electrics Shop: Sevannah Clarington*, Taylor Falzarano*, Delta Russell*, Sam Mustaine*, Thomas Blair*, Veronica Rosalis*
Sound Shop: Tabby Dennis*, Shelby Rice*
Costume Shop: Foster Elkins*, Sabrina Rizzo*, Nia Jenkins*, Dennis Davis
FRONT OF HOUSE/BOX OFFICE
Emily Duncanson*, Helen Sanford*, Gabriela Astwood*, Max Mitchell*, Paige Wallace*, Amber Wheeler*
PEGASUS PLAYLAB/Theatre UCF
Artistic Director: Julia Listengarten
Design and Technology Advisor: Vandy Wood
Stage Manager Advisor: Claudia Lynch
Production Manager: James Cleveland
Production Sound/Design Advisor: Olivia Deiter
Production Electrician: Beth McAshan
Costume Shop Manager: Allison Rexrode
Costume Shop Workroom Supervisor: Amanda Roberts
Technical Director: Tramaine Berryhill
Assistant Technical Director: Kristen Garza
Artistic Associate / Company Manager: Leigh Green*
Marketing Communications Manager: McKenzie Lakey
Marketing Coordinator: Jessica Compton
FOH/ Box Office Manager: Imari Point-du-Jour
* Theatre UCF student
Cast Bios
Isabelle Aviles is a part of Best Buddies and an alumnus of UCF. They are excited to be part of this play. It was a good experience to be part of it.
River Banks is a rising Senior in the BFA Acting program at UCF. Theatre UCF credits include The Cherry Orchard (Yepikhodov), Chicken & Biscuits (U/S Kenny, U/S Reginald), Home of The Brave (TY) and As You Like It (U/S Dukes, U/S Charles & Silvius), Indecent (U/S Avram). Other Credits include Footloose (Ren), Grease (Roger), Triumph of Love ( Harlequin) and Blood Wedding (Moon). Rivers personal mission statement is to aspire to develop new discoveries of Self, Environment and Community. He hopes to one day open his own performance organization to help others make these discoveries as well.
Caroline Hull just graduated in Spring 2024 from UCF with her MA in Theatre, and she begins her MFA in Playwriting from Augsburg University this summer. She currently works as a Guest Services Representative at the Dr. Phillips Center. Outside of being an active performer, playwright, and dramaturg, she is a passionate advocate for those with both visible and invisible disabilities. www.carolinemhull.com
Justin Isaac joined the after-school arts program in Connecticut, where he was in four plays by William Shakespeare: The Tempest (Sailor), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Snug), Much Ado About Nothing (Watchman) and Romeo and Juliet (Servant). Then, he joined the New Milford Theater program where he played the role of The Demon in The Demon’s Lair. He has also performed in countless roles with CFCArts UpBeat. Some of these roles include Cogsworth in Beauty and the Beast, Neville Longbottom in A Little Night Magic, and William Shakespeare in Night at the Museum.
Aidan Leary is a rising junior in the BA Theatre Studies program at UCF. Recent credits include May We All (Earl), Seussical (Horton) and Working (Conrad Swibel). Aidan hopes to pursue acting and writing after college while also teaching theatre and language arts. In his spare time, Aidan enjoys making graphic art, and working on his craft.
Kirby Lee Just finished her 1st year in the MFA Theatre for Young Audiences program at UCF and is so excited to be a part of Daring to Dream! She is currently a teaching artist at Orlando Family Stage. Recently she was in the Devise piece of Deaf Republic by Ilya Kaminsky at UCF Celebrates The Arts and The Dramaturg for UCF’s Project Spotlights One Acts Honestly! By Bennett Silverglate, and currently has an original short play The Grumpy Cat in Kids Fringe! Post Grad school she hopes to continue to pursue Dramaturgy, Acting, writing and Directing and hopefully Teaching at the college level someday. During her free time, she loves to cook, hangout with friends, go to the gym, and cuddling with her cat and 3 Dogs
Matthew Gennell is a BA Theatre Studies major, and will soon have a minor in film. Matt started doing theatre as a hobby, but soon became one of his biggest passions. He has performed in everything from comedies to tragedies, from Shakespeare to musicals. Matt’s roles include, but are not limited to Dionysus from Metamorphoses, Longaville from Love’s Labour’s Lost, Undead Shakespeare from Witches of Shakespeare, President Dominic G. Troupe in Electile Disfunction. While Matt has enjoyed his time on the stage, he hopes to bring his talents to a recording booth and pursue his dream as a professional voice actor. Matt is so proud and honored to be a part of the Daring to Dream cast and hopes to be involved in more projects with UCF in the future.
Sophia Mazo is a graduate of Doctor Phillips High School. She has participated in some plays with CFCArts including Up Beat Heroes and Up Beat Into the Wild, right now they are preparing Up Beat The Night at the Museum. It's her first time participating in UCF Pegasus PlayLab Daring to Dream.
Nick McGrew is a community member with CFCArts, a UCF IES Program alum and a duel thespian member. They were in more than 30+ Plays/ Musicals including Footloose (Ren McCormick) and Beauty and the Beast (Napkin). They also work at ORMC in the Guest services department. They hope everyone enjoys Dear to Dream!
Mackenzie Wood is a community member with CFCArts and has been a part of the community for almost a year. She discovered her passion for the performing arts at a young age. Some of her biggest roles have been at Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights (Princess), The Music Man (Eulalie Mackecknie Shinn) and Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory (Charlie Bucket). Mackenzie is hopeful to attend Shepherd's College in the fall and minor in theater to continually broaden her talent. She is also very grateful to the production team at UCF for the opportunity to be a part of Daring to Dream.
Creative Team Bios
Christian Anderson (Facilitator) Christian Anderson is a recent graduate of the Theatre for Young Audiences MFA program. His Theatre UCF credits include Building a Shared Home (Facilitator), Home of the Brave (Director), As You Like It (Associate Director), and Spells of the Sea (Assistant Producer).
Sevannah Clarington (Scenic Carpenter/Designer, Lighting Designer) is a junior in the BFA Theatre Design and Technology program. She has worked in the Theatre UCF scene shop for Prom, Peter and the Starcatcher (Lighting), The Cherry Orchard (Painting) and Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. She is also a part of the work-study program in the scenic shop as well. She is excited to be Props Manager for the upcoming Fall show, The Clean House.
Caroline Cutillo (Facilitator/ Movement Coach) is a graduate of the BA Theatre Studies Major with a Dance Minor. Most recent credits include the Orlando Fringe Production of We Begin in a Tavern (Heroine/Bard 3). UCF credits include Building a Shared Home (asst. facilitator/ensemble), The Games We Play (Robin), Manor of Death (U/S The Entertainer) and choreographer of The Mannequin for UCF Celebrates the Arts Dance Concert. Past credits include Chicago (Assistant Choreographer), Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (Young Lucy), as well as many film and television roles. @caroline_cutillo
Jazlyn (Jaz) Griffiths (Assistant Stage Manager) is a first-year in the BFA Stage Management Program. They have been a production assistant for Schoolhouse Rock Live Jr. at the Orlando Family Stage and a stage manager at UCF Celebrates the Arts 2024.
Ralph Krumins (Music Director/Musician) is the Arts Director at Seacrest Country Day School, where he specializes in drama 6-12 grade and music for infants. He is a proud graduate of UCF's Theatre for Young Audiences program. He has written and composed several TYA productions, including Millions of Boxes, Sombra Del Sol, Jason & the Argonauts and Prince(cess). He has two wonderful children, Benji and Mabel, who are affectionately known as his gladiator and gremlin—terms that can be used interchangeably for either child.
Elizabeth McDermott (Production Stage Manager) is a first-year in the BFA Stage Management Program. Her credits include Finding Nemo Jr. at the Orlando Family Stage (Production Assistant) and the 2024 UCF Opera (Assistant Stage Manager).
Baeta Mischker (Scenic Designer, Assistant Prop Manager) is a sophomore in the BFA Theatre Design and Technology program. They have worked in the Theatre UCF scenic shop for Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, The Cherry Orchard and Peter and the Starcatcher. In addition, they are an apprentice rigger for the Orange County Convention Center.
Elyse Mundelein (Facilitator/ Participant) is a UCF graduate with a general studies degree from UCF. Her Theatre UCF credits include Building a Shared Home. She’s been in many theatre and dance performances in her past. She loves being a Global Ambassador for Best Buddies and Zumba instructor. She is so excited to be a part of this production.
Vivianette Rivera-Rodriguez (Assistant Stage Manager) is a first-year transfer in the BFA Stage Management Program. Her Theatre UCF credits include Metamorphoses (Deck Crew) and Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (Production Assistant).
Nicholas Salerno (Scenic Designer) is a first-year student in the BFA Design/ Technology program. They have previously worked with Theatre UCF on Deck Crew for Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Their professional credits include working changeover and Spotlight Operator with Prather Touring Company at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre.
Sage Tokach (Co-Director/Facilitator) is the Director of Education at the New London Barn Playhouse in New Hampshire! She is a graduate of UCF’s Theatre for Young Audiences MFA program and has worked as a teaching artist and director at organizations across the country, including Orlando Repertory Theatre, Maples Repertory Theatre, Missoula Children’s Theatre, and the Florida State Parks. In any project, Sage is interested in creating a learning space where young people are encouraged to explore, share their ideas, and ask questions.
Vidal Treadwell (Dramaturg) is a First-Year in the B.A. Theatre Studies curriculum. They served on Deck Crew for Peter and the Starcatcher and as Stage Manager for Project Spotlight’s Showstoppers Anonymous. They will also be a co-dramaturg for Theatre UCF’s The Clean House this fall.
Dramaturg's Note
“Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken-winged bird that cannot fly.”
When we were younger, we wanted to become princesses or superheroes, living in a castle or a mansion surrounded by our favorite toys, books, and animals. Maybe we played pretend with siblings or friends, or doodled them out in pieces of paper to turn in to our teacher or share with our classes. Back then, it felt like anything was possible. As we grew older, however, we realized that many of our fantastical dreams simply can’t happen. We can’t be a princess living in a castle or a superhero fighting evil—we got the burdens of adulthood we need to worry about, and we end up looking back on our childhoods with nostalgia—yearning for the innocence and imagination we once had.
Our devised piece, Daring to Dream, returns adults back to that world of dreams, filled with infinite possibilities. Funded by the Pabst Steinmetz Foundation, the script was entirely conceived by students with and without disabilities. Over the span of fifteen days, they shared their dreams and nightmares with each other, represented them via movement pieces, and crafted surrealist art that appears as characters and worlds within our story. As a result, they collectively grew as artists, actors, and dreamers.
As you watch the show, we want you to embrace your childhood dreams once again, no matter how abstract or fictional they are. Follow our characters into the dream world and let your imagination go wild. And as our characters grow in their dreams and unite as a community, we ask that you join them, and relish in the comfort and freedom our own dreams give us.
Desert Oceans
Playwright: John Mabey | Director: Nick Bazo
After a devastating loss, William and those left behind, question what it means to have faith and survive. Through unpacking memories, secrets, and learning to honor identity the characters are reminded of the importance of listening.
June 14-15, 2024 at 7 PM | $15, $10 student
Tickets on Sale Now!Desert Ocean Playbill
Desert Oceans
Playwright: John Mabey
Director: Nick Bazo
Assistant Director: Lindsay Goldman*
Dramaturg: Lilly Yandell*
Production Stage Manager: Mary McDermott*
Stage Managers: Taylor Appleford* , Hannah Silverstein*
*Theatre UCF student
CAST
JOSE: Esteban Mayorga*
WILLIAM: Wyatt Hubbard*
SISTER PHILOMENA: Charlie Vega-Franz*
YVONNE: Rachel Burnes*
U/S JOSE: Luis Montalvo*
U/S WILLIAM: Jake Haugland*
*Theatre UCF student
DESIGN TEAM
Design and Technology Advisor: Vandy Wood
Lighting: Sam Mustaine *
Sound: Shelby Rice*
Scenic: Shannon Daly*
Costumes: Sabrina Rizzo*
SHOW CREW
Max Benmoha*, Samantha Tobares*, Genevieve Holman*
SHOP CREWS
Scene Shop Crew: Shannon Daly*, Ryan Devane*, Baeta Mischker*, Nicholas Salerno*, Ashlyn Witterschein*, Reese Doman*, Paul Rodriguez*
Props: Griffin Greene*
Electrics Shop: Sevannah Clarington*, Taylor Falzarano*, Delta Russell*, Sam Mustaine*
Sound Shop: Tabby Dennis*, Shelby Rice*, Thomas Blair*, Veronica Rosalis*
Costume Shop: Foster Elkins*, Sabrina Rizzo*, Nia Jenkins*, Dennis Davis*
FRONT OF HOUSE/BOX OFFICE
Emily Duncanson*, Helen Sanford*, Gabriela Astwood*, Max Mitchell*, Paige Wallace*, Amber Wheeler*
PEGASUS PLAYLAB/Theatre UCF
Artistic Director: Julia Listengarten
Design and Technology Advisor: Vandy Wood
Stage Manager Advisor: Claudia Lynch
Production Manager: James Cleveland
Production Sound/Design Advisor: Olivia Deiter
Production Electrician: Beth McAshan
Costume Shop Manager: Allison Rexrode
Costume Shop Workroom Supervisor: Amanda Roberts
Technical Director: Tramaine Berryhill
Assistant Technical Director: Kristen Garza
Artistic Associate / Company Manager: Leigh Green*
Marketing Communications Manager: McKenzie Lakey
Marketing Coordinator: Jessica Compton
FOH/ Box Office Manager: Imari Point-du-Jour
*Theatre UCF student
Cast Bios
Wyatt Hubbard (William) is a second year transfer student in the B.A. Theatre Studies program. He has most recently been seen in Pegasus Playlab’s Dance Night (Mr. Sanderson / Herman Bauer) and Project Spotlight’s production of Irreverent (Aidyn / U/S Frankie). This is now his second time working with Pegasus Playlab and he couldn’t be more excited!
Esteban Mayorga (Jose) is a sophomore in the B.A Theatre Students Program. He has been seen in the Theatre UCF stage in Project Spotlight’s The Notebook With a Cuban Accent (David) and UCF’s Theatre for Young Audiences and Communities Let’s Go Camping! (Fuzzy).
Luis Montalvo (U/S Jose) is a second-year theatre pending major other production at Theatre UCF include Metamorphoses (U/S Actors 4 & 5) and Gruesome Playground Injuries (U/S Doug).
Charlie Vega-Franz (Sister Philomena) is a sophomore in the B.A. Theatre Studies Program. This is their Theatre UCF debut, as well they have been involved in Project Spotlight and backstage as a Stagehand for Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street at UCF Celebrates the Arts 2024. Other theatre credits include Romeo and Juliet (Mercutio) and Les Misérables (Ensemble, U/S Enjolras).
Creative Team Bios
Taylor Appleford (Assistant Stage Manager) is a first-year student in the BFA Stage Management program. She has previously worked on Theatre UCF’s Peter and the Starcatcher (Production Assistant), Project Spotlight’s Irreverent! (Assistant Stage Manager), and UCF Celebrates the Arts (Stage Manager). @taylorrae.a
Lindsay Goldman (Assistant Director) is a third year in the BA Theatre Studies Program. She currently serves as Artistic Director for UCF’s developmental theatre company, Project Spotlight. She has worked on various shows at UCF such as Que Sera (Director), Irreverent! (Assistant Director), and Dive In (Adult Emily). @lindsaygoldman__
Leigh Green (Artistic Associate/Company Manager) is a rising second-year student in the MFA Theatre for Young Audiences program and an alumna from the UCF BFA Musical Theatre program (c/o 2016). At Theater UCF, she performed in productions such as The Fantasticks, Spelling Bee, Nine, Hair, and Spring Awakening. Leigh is a well known performer in the Orlando area having performed/been involved with shows at Orlando Family Stage, Renaissance Theatre Company, Theater West End, Winter Park Playhouse, Universal Orlando Resort, and more. Leigh is also the Marketing Associate for Theater West End. @Leigh.Shani.Green
John Mabey (Desert Oceans, Playwright) is a writer with productions in 7 countries and throughout the United States including their multi award-winning play, A Complicated Hope, available through Dramatic Publishing. John is also a published author on sexual identity and spirituality in academic books and journals. When not writing, they enjoy teaching and performing improvised coTheatre for Young Audiences and Communities” coursemedy and true storytelling around the world. https://mabeyplays.com
Mary McDermott (Production Stage Manager) is a first-year in the BFA Stage Management program at UCF. She is so excited for the opportunity to work on this production!
Hannah Silverstein (Assistant Stage Manager) is a first-year transfer in the BFA Stage Management program. She has previously worked on Theatre UCF’s The Prom (Q-Lab Operator), Metamorphoses (Deck Crew), The Cherry Orchard (Production Assistant), and Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (Light Board Operator). She is super grateful that she got the opportunity to work on this production! @hannahmichellle_
Playwright's Note
There was an old box in the attic just waiting to be discovered. My nana gifted me this relic because she knows I collect memories like they’re priceless artifacts. And they are. Inside the mysterious box was a treasure trove of writings from my sister - no longer alive but still speaking through the stories and poetry she wrote in Spanish and English. I used some of her words to create the poem at the start of this play, like puzzle pieces coming together for a picture not completely in focus. Or maybe the pieces just didn’t connect at all. Either way, blending her words with mine was a way of writing something ‘with’ her across time. And when I was ready, these lines of poetry became the guides for each scene in Desert Oceans, bringing the overall picture of the play into focus.
From there, I drew on inspirations from my own life as well as family artifacts dating back to my papa’s immigration to this country. Moments in this play thread back to these treasures, forming a tapestry that’s full of beautiful contradictions – smooth & sharp, happy & sad, light & dark – all at the same time. I write a lot about queer joy, and that also feels like a beautiful contradiction in the world sometimes - but queer joy is always there if you know where to look. The characters in this play are on a similar journey. And through them, I’ve realized that the puzzle pieces that never seem to fit, just might belong to a different box altogether. I hope some pieces from this play also find their way to connect with you, just waiting to be discovered.
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Dramaturg's Note
In John Mabey’s Desert Oceans, Mabey explores a world of opposites. Throughout the play, audiences find that things in opposition often come together to create something new. Being brave and afraid are tied together like a knot, while hellos and goodbyes often look the same. Grief and community come together to create hope, and one can find strength in religion and sexuality.
Many LGBT+ community members feel rejection and hate from religion. Lack of support from the church often leads to dismissal of religion entirely. In Desert Oceans, Mabey subverts this expectation. These characters find solace and connection through faith, despite their struggles. Religion is not something to be feared, but something to be cherished.
As you watch, pay attention to the opposing forces. One might find connections that bond these characters and story together.
Full Production | Black Box
What’s in Store
Playwright: Kate Brennan | Director: Rebekah Lane
Discouraged by her recent futile apartment search and the equally futile state of the world, Jaycee finds solace in the clean lines and pre-fab layouts at DUKTIG, her local Swedish furniture store. So she moves in. When others follow her lead, will she be discovered or start a revolution? A heart-warming and unconventional take on where we live, and the parts of ourselves we donate to make it home.
June 12-15, 2024 at 7:30 PM | $25, $10 student
Tickets on Sale Now!What's in Store Playbill
What’s in Store
Playwright: Kate Brennan
Director: Rebekah Lane
Production Stage Manager: Caiden Talbert*
Lighting, Scenic, & Projections Designer: Vandy Wood
Sound Designer: Kaitlyn Gill*
Costume Designer: Nia Jenkins*
*Theatre UCF student
CAST
JAYCEE: Alayna Ruggiero*
MAVIS: Faith Alfieri*
GERI: Dominique Marshall*
JEANINE, BROKER: Kaitlyn Loughran*
WES: Anthony Geluso*
LOUDSPEAKER, U/S JAYCEE, U/S TALIA, U/S GERI: Sarah Bathelemy*
TALIA, LOUDSPEAKER, U/S MAVIS, U/S JEANINE: Dafne Cardena*
U/S WES, LOUDSPEAKER: Christopher Poulios*
*Theatre UCF student
PRODUCTION TEAM
Stage Managers: CJ Gray*, Savanah Schaller*
Dramaturg: Chanel Gomaa*
Props Manager: Griffin Greene*
Assistant Scenic Designer: Max Camacho*
Assistant Lighting Designer: Taylor Falzarano*
Light Board Operator: Lila McMorris*
QLab Operator: Tabytha Dennis
Wardrobe Supervisor: Bella Llanes*
Wardrobe/Deck Crew: Elizabeth McDermott*, Vivi Rivera-Rodriguez*, Jaz Griffiths*
Deck Crew: Jacob Willson*, Owen Tavares*, Ethan Cabral*
SHOP CREWS
Scene Shop Crew: Shannon Daly*, Ryan Devane*, Baeta Mischker*, Nicholas Salerno*, Ashlyn Witterschein*, Reese Doman*, Paul Rodriguez*
Props: Griffin Greene*
Electrics Shop: Sevannah Clarington*, Taylor Falzarano*, Delta Russell*, Sam Mustaine*, Thomas Blair*, Veronica Rosalis*
Sound Shop: Tabby Dennis*, Shelby Rice*
Costume Shop: Foster Elkins*, Sabrina Rizzo*, Nia Jenkins*, Dennis Davis*
FRONT OF HOUSE/BOX OFFICE
Emily Duncanson*, Helen Sanford*, Gabriela Astwood*, Max Mitchell*, Paige Wallace*, Amber Wheeler*
PEGASUS PLAYLAB/Theatre UCF
Artistic Director: Julia Listengarten
Design and Technology Advisor: Vandy Wood
Stage Manager Advisor: Claudia Lynch
Production Manager: James Cleveland
Production Sound/Design Advisor: Olivia Deiter
Production Electrician: Beth McAshan
Costume Shop Manager: Allison Rexrode
Costume Shop Workroom Supervisor: Amanda Roberts
Technical Director: Tramaine Berryhill
Assistant Technical Director: Kristen Garza
Artistic Associate / Company Manager: Leigh Green*
Marketing Communications Manager: McKenzie Lakey
Marketing Coordinator: Jessica Compton
FOH/ Box Office Manager: Imari Point-du-Jour
*Theatre UCF student
CAST BIOS
Faith Alfieri (Mavis) is a rising third-year student in the BFA Musical Theatre program. She has participated in UCF’s Sweeney Todd (Ensemble), Metamorphoses (Actor 3), The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui (Ensemble, U/S Young Inna/Announcer/Sheet), and others. Past favorites of hers include Jekyll & Hyde (Lucy Harris), The Drowsy Chaperone (Janet Van De Graff), and A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Puck). @faith_alfieri
Sarah Bathelemy (Loudspeaker, U/S Jaycee, U/S Talia, U/S Geri) is entering her second year BFA Acting program and is very excited to be working Pegasus Playlab for the first time. Sarah transferred from Indian River State college and is excited to continue her education with UCF. Sarah is grateful for all the professors and peers she has met along her journey and can’t wait for her future her at Theatre UCF.
Dafne Cardena (Talia, Loudspeaker, U/S Mavis, U/S Jeanine) is a first-year transfer student at UCF, graduated with her A.A from Valencia College as a Musical Theater student where she’s done shows like The Wild Party (Queenie), Boing Boing (Berthe), She Kills Monsters (Farrah). Also done shows like Mamamia (Tanya), Hercules (Phil), The Wizard of Oz (The Wicked Witch). Lastly she has been in the ensemble for The Adamas Family, Kiss me Kate, and Matilda.
Anthony Geluso (Wes) is a rising third-year student in the B.A. Theatre Studies program and B.S. Biology program with a Marine and Aquatics track. At UCF, he has been involved with Sweeney Todd (Ensemble) and Let’s Go Camping! (Fuzzy). Recent theatre credits of his include The Phantom of the Opera (The Phantom), in Meet Me in St. Louis (John Truitt), Fun Home (Bruce Bechdel), and Spring Awakening (Otto).
Dominique Marshall (Geri) Dominique Marshall is a rising third-year in UCF’s MFA Acting Program. She was most recently in Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet St. (Ensemble). Other Theatre UCF roles include Chicken & Biscuits (Beverly), Pegasus Playlab 2023’s Summertime Interlude (Kyri), (Emmanuele Giri) in Arturo Ui, (Reporter/ Marcie) in The Interference. Prior to UCF she played (June) in HWS Colleges’ theater production of Marisol, and abroad at U.E.A., U.K. she played (Dirk Gently) in Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency.
Christopher Poulios (Wes U/S) is entering his third year at UCF majoring in Environmental Studies. He has appeared in four Theatre UCF productions: As You Like It (Adam/Martext), Home of the Brave (Brady), The Prom (Swing), and Sweeney Todd (Ensemble). Other credits include: Tick, Tick…Boom! (Jon), Be More Chill (Jake) and A Chorus Line (Al).
Alayna Ruggiero (Jaycee) is a rising senior in the B.A. Theatre Studies program, minoring in Creative Writing. Other Theatre UCF credits include Group Therapy (Dr. Leo) in Project Spotlight last spring, as well as Go Like Saints (Nell) and summertime: an interlude (U/S Windy) during Pegasus Playlab 2023. She works for Universal and Seaworld Entertainment when she’s not in school. @alaynaruggiero
PRODUCTION TEAM BIOS
Kate Brennan (What’s in Store: A Swedish Dramedy, playwright) was a 2023 Finalist for the Jonathan Larson Grant & the Cultural Innovator Award. Works include ALiEN8, Clean Slate, Illuminate, ELFuego, Some Assembly Required, The Infinity Trilogy (Map Fund Grant), The Self-Destruction of Emma James (O’Neill Semifinalist) What’s in Store (B-Street New Comedy Finalist, O’Neill Semifinalist, Princess Grace Finalist), #notacult or Camp Hope (Judith Royer & Jane Chambers Finalist), The Marginals (Lanford Wilson Finalist) and Lost Boys (O’Neill Semifinalist). Member: Dramatist Guild & AEA. Kate is a Designated Linklater Teacher and holds an MFA from UVA. www.katebrennan.org
Kaitlyn Gill (Sound Designer) is a fourth-year transfer student in the Theatre BA program with a focus in sound design and music. Her Theatre UCF credits include Sweeney Todd (Assistant Sound Designer), Cherry Orchard (QLAB Operator), Chicken and Biscuits (Usher), Home of the Brave (Assistant Stage Manager), Working (Production Assistant), The Body (Assistant Stage Manager), UCF Celebrates the Arts 2022 & 2023 (SM team).
Leigh Green (Artistic Associate/Company Manager) is a rising second-year student in the MFA Theatre for Young Audiences program and an alumna from the UCF BFA Musical Theatre program (c/o 2016). At Theater UCF, she performed in productions such as The Fantasticks, Spelling Bee, Nine, Hair, and Spring Awakening. Leigh is a well known performer in the Orlando area having performed/been involved with shows at Orlando Family Stage, Renaissance Theatre Company, Theater West End, Winter Park Playhouse, Universal Orlando Resort, and more. Leigh is also the Marketing Associate for Theater West End. @Leigh.Shani.Green
Caiden Talbert (Production Stage Manager) is a rising second-year student in the BFA Stage Management program. She has participated in UCF’s The Prom (Production Assistant), and UCF Celebrates the Arts (Stage Manager).
PLAYWRIGHT'S NOTE
I firmly believe that every show should be funny or relevant, and what a gift if it can be both. What’s is Store was born of a moment of frustration when — you might have guessed it — I was apartment hunting. Writing provides an opportunity to process the chaos and absurdity and overwhelm in life. The act synthesizes, organizes, and uncovers thoughts and feelings I didn’t realize I had. But playwriting is not an independent endeavor. Even as a solo writer, it is an act of collaboration with the cast, the creative team, the spectator.
The development of a new piece is a strange unwieldy journey. It’s an abridged nomadic lifetime, gathering companions as you go, exchanging what you can in your few precious moments together, and then allowing you and your work to be changed by the brief encounter. It’s a lesson in creating a life.
What’s in Store has been developed by five ensembles— in Colorado, Oklahoma, New Jersey, California and now, Florida. Quite a spread. Various themes emerged in different areas of the country. Various themes emerged as I evolved in my own life. This is to say that creating a play takes time, it takes investment, it takes a lot of strangers who are willing to show up and show up again, and dedicate their time and expertise and problem-solving and patience and fortitude and willingness and care to a single baby project. In a way, it is a microcosm for building a world, and hopefully a better one.
This is why organizations like Pegasus Play Lab are so integral to the future of the American Theatre. If we truly want to create a more thoughtful, more inclusive, more representative canon — if we truly want to foster new voices, different perspectives and innovative storytelling, it requires all of us. Because we are all participants in the world we create. And I think the question I am always after is: how, even in the most challenging of times, can we make it better?
DIRECTOR'S NOTE
The idea of community is prescient right now. The world is in flux. Inflation is making the classic American individualism difficult to maintain. Rising rates of depression and anxiety have been correlated with hours spent on social media platforms - these digital spaces that connect us through screens rather than physical proximity. We are working harder than ever, but we are missing social support and belonging.
In her book Belonging: A culture of place, scholar and activist bell hooks writes, “Searching for a place to belong I make a list of what I will need to create firm ground. At the top of the list I write: ‘I need to live where I can walk. I need to be able to walk to work, to the store, to a place where I can sit and drink tea and fellowship. Walking, I will establish my presence as one who is claiming the earth, creating a sense of belonging, a culture of place.’”
What’s in Store gives us a peek into what it might be like if these concepts of walking to work and fellowship were contained, idyllically, under one roof. As the show progresses, we see Jaycee, Mavis, and Geri create community and create their own "culture of place." In true capitalist fashion, this magical place is found within a stylish furniture store.
In alignment with the premise of stylish furniture stores, in the 2022 “Life at Home Report” by Ikea, Ikea shares research indicating that an ideal home is "a place where we can cast off our shoes, wipe the stresses from our minds and zero in on the things that bring us joy and satisfaction.” Playwright Kate Brennan frames DuKTiG as just such a haven, and likens it to OZ - a microcosm for an ideal community. Her main character, Jaycee, initiates a slide into this utopia and draws the rest of us into her reality. Unlike fairy tales, there is no witch or Big Bad Wolf at the end of her journey. In the style of current shows like Ted Lasso, our characters choose to seek grounding over conflict.
Brennan’s script invites us to imagine the framework presented as a true alternative to the frameworks that currently dictate our lives.
Dramaturg's Note
Kate Brennan has referred to her play What’s in Store as “a love letter to humanity.” Her characters come together from different backgrounds with lived experiences that leave them searching for connection in each other through the comfort of the cozy corner of the world they’ve curated in the DuKTiG furniture store. In rehearsals together we leaned into the Swedish practice of lagom, meaning “everything in moderation.” This refers to work, responsibilities, and every day commitments as it does to pleasure and play. Engaging in lagom invites us to invest in building community connections that are unconditional and reciprocated through mutual respect and love. We built a community like this in the rehearsal space, and made efforts to uplift the Orlando community as well by providing information in the lobby to you about how to reach out to organizations and groups that may inspire you to find community like the characters in What’s in Store? do. Thank you for joining us and our community at DuKTiG, we wish you joy and inspiration as you find your cozy corner of the world outside the theatre walls.