Produced by UC Davis Department of Theatre and Dance and
Theatre and Dance Ensemble
Theatre and Dance Ensemble
Welcome to Our Third Season
For the last three years, we have nurtured new narratives and cultivated new voices in the theatre. This year we are working with playwrights from Scotland to Sacramento, from first-time performers to Broadway veterans, with plays that have been in development for years or are being heard at our tables for the very first time.
We continue in our mission not only to grow new works and provide a top-quality training ground, but to also build discourse around issues of sustainability; encouraging interrogation of process and practice with the intention of building towards more sustainable models of theatre-making. Our student artists, led by the core artists of the Theatre and Dance Ensemble, work side by side with professional playwrights, directors, designers, actors, and technicians, they experience first-hand what it takes to create professional theatre at every step of the process.
This season the festival itself has grown exponentially as well- we are delighted to be joined by producing partner Bike City Theatre Company and our collaborators from New York’ s Broadway community. We are so proud to grow these important new narratives in Davis; putting down strong local roots to support our national and international reach.
Your presence is the final, essential ingredient in our creative collaboration with the playwrights as they continue to develop the works that you are about to see this weekend. So laugh, sigh, cry...and enjoy the show!
We continue in our mission not only to grow new works and provide a top-quality training ground, but to also build discourse around issues of sustainability; encouraging interrogation of process and practice with the intention of building towards more sustainable models of theatre-making. Our student artists, led by the core artists of the Theatre and Dance Ensemble, work side by side with professional playwrights, directors, designers, actors, and technicians, they experience first-hand what it takes to create professional theatre at every step of the process.
This season the festival itself has grown exponentially as well- we are delighted to be joined by producing partner Bike City Theatre Company and our collaborators from New York’ s Broadway community. We are so proud to grow these important new narratives in Davis; putting down strong local roots to support our national and international reach.
Your presence is the final, essential ingredient in our creative collaboration with the playwrights as they continue to develop the works that you are about to see this weekend. So laugh, sigh, cry...and enjoy the show!
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ON THE STAGE
FAT KID
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There will be one 15-minute intermission.
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The Cast
TROY BILLINGS . . . . . . .Cole Ragsdale*
CURT McCRAE . . . . . . . . Matt Gumley* WILLIAM BILLINGS . . . . . J.R. Yancher DAYLE BILLINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . Noah VanderVeers- Harris OLLIE TREMENT. . . . . . . . .Diana Huey* PIPER CHAVANET . . . . . . . .Kyle Price* CARNATION . . . . . . . Talia Friedenberg HAZEL McCRAE . . . . . . . . . Tara Henry JOEY CAMINO/MR. EARDLEY . . . . . . . John Peceimer AMBER DOOLEY . . .Stephanie Nielsen ETHAN DOOLEY. . . . .Charles Lavaroni DARIA CORTEZ . . . . . . . . . Olivia Coca ZACH DAVIS . . . . . .Rory Gaynor-Flynn CORY FRIEDMAN. . . . . . Andre Codner TESS/JESSICA . .. . . . Alyssa Buchthal Ensemble: Alyssa Buchthal, Oliva Coca, Andre Codner , Rory Gaynor-Flynn, TaraHenry, Charlie Lavaroni, Stephanie Nielsen, John Peceimer Band: Keyboard/Conductor: James Dobinson Paul Heaney, rhythm guitar Elitt Noguera, percussion Brendan Phung, guitar Joseph Spitale, bass * Appearing through an Agreement between UC Davis Department of Theatre and Dance, and Actors' Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.
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FAT KID RULES THE WORLD is presented through special arrangement with Robert Ahrens and Mickey Liddell
The use of video/recording devices (including cell phones) or cameras or texting during the performance is strictly prohibited. Please turn off your cell phone unless you are using it for the program, in which case mute mute your phone prior to the start of the performance. Thank you for your cooperation. |
SCENES & MUSICAL NUMBERS
ACT I
Prologue. Troy's Fantasy Day
“Would It Be Funny?” Troy, Ensemble
“Would It Be Funny?” Troy, Ensemble
Scene 1 - New York City, A Subway Station
“Just the Right Size” Troy
“Just the Right Size” Troy
Scene 2 - The Diner - Greenwich Village Dive
“Bit T And Me” Curt, Troy, Ensemble
“Bit T And Me” Curt, Troy, Ensemble
Scene 2 to 3 - Transition. The Street
Scene 3 - The Billings Apartment
Scene 4 - Washington Square Park
“Heart Out First Try” Curt, Ollie, Piper, Carnation
“Heart Out First Try” Curt, Ollie, Piper, Carnation
Scene 5 - The School - Vice Principal's Office
“Dog Eat Dog” Dayle, Ensemble
“Dog Eat Dog” Dayle, Ensemble
Scene 6 - Curt's Place, Hazel & Joey's Apt.
Scene 7 - Washington Square Park
“Not Eat Your Heart Out” Piper
“Not Eat Your Heart Out” Piper
Scene 8 - The Billings Apartment
“Make Some Noise” Piper, Ollie, Curt, Troy, Carnation
“You're The One Who” Dayle, Troy, Willia
“Make Some Noise” Piper, Ollie, Curt, Troy, Carnation
“You're The One Who” Dayle, Troy, Willia
Scene 9 - The Dump
“Kick Ass Night” Troy, Tess, Amber, Ensemble
"Frustration is My Only Friend” Curt, Ensemble
“Guts and Pie” Troy, Curt, Ensemble
“Kick Ass Night” Troy, Tess, Amber, Ensemble
"Frustration is My Only Friend” Curt, Ensemble
“Guts and Pie” Troy, Curt, Ensemble
Scene 10 - Outside the Dump
“Just the Right Size” Reprise Troy
“Just the Right Size” Reprise Troy
Scene 11 - Troy's Room / Various Locaation
“LDYW” Troy, Piper, Carnation, Ollie, Curt, Ensemble
“LDYW” Troy, Piper, Carnation, Ollie, Curt, Ensemble
Scene 12 - The Dump
“Act One Finale” Troy, Curt, Ensemble
“Act One Finale” Troy, Curt, Ensemble
ACT II
Scene 1 - Various Location
“How's That For Punk?” Ensemble
“How's That For Punk?” Ensemble
Scene 2 - Troy's Room
“When The Going Gets Tough” Troy
“When The Going Gets Tough” Troy
Scene 3 - A City Street
Scene 4 - The Subway
“I’m Sorry” Ollie
“I’m Sorry” Ollie
Scene 5 - The Diner
“Let ‘em Look” Curt, Tory, Ensemble
“Let ‘em Look” Curt, Tory, Ensemble
Scene 6 - Hospital Waiting Room
“As If Were Yesterday” Troy, Dayle
“As If Were Yesterday” Troy, Dayle
Scene 7 - The Street
“Rip Your Moo Shu Pork Off" Piper
“Rip Your Moo Shu Pork Off" Piper
Scene 8 - Curt's Hospital Room, a few days later
“Frustration” Reprise Troy, Curt
“Would It Be Funny?” (Fight) Curt, Piper, Carnation, Ollie, William, Dayle, Troy
“Fat Kid Vs. The World” Troy
“Frustration” Reprise Troy, Curt
“Would It Be Funny?” (Fight) Curt, Piper, Carnation, Ollie, William, Dayle, Troy
“Fat Kid Vs. The World” Troy
Scene 9 - The Dump
“Kick Ass Night” Reprise Ollie, Carnation, Piper, Troy, Curt
“Kick Ass Night” Reprise Ollie, Carnation, Piper, Troy, Curt
Scene 10 - Monday, The Quad
“Finale” Ensemble
“Finale” Ensemble
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The Crew:
Light Board Operator
Daniel Tiffany-Appleton Audio Engineer Patty Sandoval Deck Audio Danil Diordiev Run Crew Amber Zarevich Dressers Mahogany Smith-Christopher, Sarina Hall Front of House Manager Kevin Butt |
Thank you for checking out our awesome new punk rock show! The entire create team is excited to finally present “Fat Kid Rules the World” publicly for the very first time. What began as a novel in 2003, and then an indie movie in 2012 is now, finally on the stage, where I think it feels most alive and appropriate. And my hope is that now the story of Troy, Curt and the gang can live on for many years to come performed for audiences everywhere by people of many different backgrounds. This show is very special. I believe we touch on serious, relevant topics such as bullying, grief, addiction and in unique and interesting ways. The goal is to take you, the audience, on a wild, quirky ride of emotions. I hope we pull on your heart strings as much as we tickle your funny bone. It’s a story for anyone who has ever felt they were an outsider... anyone who has felt less than or picked on or rejected. And it’s a show that encourages everyone to have fun and Make Some Noise in life. Enjoy!
Marc Eardley, Director
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Company Biographies
ENSEMBLE
Tristan Atkinson (Actor, “Ranked”) is pumped to be on the stage this season with Ground and Field in “Ranked” and appearing in “Shining.” Appearing in “A Punchline” and “[un] Earthed” last season, Tristan is happy to help bring new works, and the festival as a whole, to life for a second year.
Chloe Boyan (Actor, “Ranked”) is a theatre arts major at Southern Oregon University and this is her first season with the Ground and Field Festival. Previous credits include: Judas, “Jesus Christ Superstar;” Emily, “Our Town;” CJ, “The Unfortunates” [Amateur World Premiere] (Theatre at Granite Bay); Alice Kinian, “Flowers for Algernon” (Sierra College); and Dorothy, “The Wizard of Oz” (Roseville Theatre Arts Academy).
Sophie Brubaker (Actor, “Ranked,” “Sustain Me”) is a third-year double major at UC Davis in theatre and dance and human development. Previously, she’s played Charlotte in “Flora the Red Menace;” Annie in “Light the Way: A Bike Safety Musical,” Josephine in “Daisy Violet the Bitch Beast King,” a Diva in “Boxed Up: The Musical” and Rae in “The Unfortunates.”
Alyssa Buchthal (Actor, “Fat Kid”) is a fourth-year computer science and communication double major at UC Davis. Previous selected credits include Chippy in “Dogfight,” Viola in “Twelfth Night,” and Sol in “The Tale of The Sun, The Earth, and the Moon.” Alyssa is thrilled to appear this season as Tess in “Fat Kid Rules the World,” and Clymene in “Shining.”
Ben Carter (Actor, “Ranked”) is a senior theatre/psychology double major at UC Davis. Past credits include “LTW: A Bike Safety Musical” (Von Drais), “Dogfight” (adult male), “Pippin” (u/s Charles/Lewis, ensemble) in Davis, “Bye Bye Birdie” (Albert), “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” (Beast) in San Diego; and more. Instagram: @neb.carter
Olivia Caserta (Actor, “Ranked”) is a second year student at UC Davis pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre and Dance and Genetics, earlier this year she debuted in Studio 301’s production of “The Addams Family” (Alice Beineke). She has vocally trained with Music and More Arts Academy, and had previous involvement with Theatre at Granite Bay productions.
Nate Challis (Actor, “Ranked”) is proud and excited to be involved with the Ground and Field Theatre Festival. Nate is a fourth-year communications major. You may have seen him recently in “Flora the Red Menace” (Harry Toukarian), or “Evil Dead The Musical’ (Ash).
Olivia Coca (Actor, “Fat Kid”) is a theater and dance undergraduate student at UC Davis who transferred from Foothill College last fall. She’s been preforming since she was four years old and has attended several acting schools throughout her life in New York City, Spain and San Francisco. She is trained in theater and camera work. She appeared as Browne and Elaine in “{LOVE/logic}.”
Andre Cordner (Actor, “Fat Kid”) started his theater career over the past year, and Ground and Field came at the right moment to cultivate his skills. He is excited to encounter new experiences theater has to offer, as well as work with industry professionals over the coming weeks.
JP De Leon (Actor, “Ranked”) is an actor, singer, dancer, and writer. While only recently graduated from high school in the Class of 2018, his acting and theater experience has been broadened by his involvement with the Ridgeview High drama department and art intensives like CSSSA or the founding of The Ovation Theatre.
Sean Dela Pena (Actor, “Ranked”) is excited to make his debut with Ground and Field! Sean is a fifth year animal science major/theater minor who is thrilled to be a part of the Ensemble and work on “Ranked.”
Talia Friedenberg (Actor, “Fat Kid”) is thrilled to be returning to Ground and Field for a third season! This year she is excited to be working both on and off stage, as Carnation in “Fat Kid Rules the World” and the assistant director for “Shining.” Recent credits: Manuela in “The Tenth Muse” with Davis Shakespeare Festival.
Rory Gaynor-Flynn (Actor, “Fat Kid”) is a third year UC Davis student, NPB major. You may have seen him in “{LOVE/logic}” as Daniel and Michael. Acting is Rory’s passion and he is very excited to perform in this festival. He hopes to someday take his acting ability to larger stages and movies.
Jennifer Grace* (Actor, “Burst”) is delighted to be participating in GFTF. She is an incoming MFA student and a professional actor. New York theatre credits: “Nikolai And The Others” (Lincoln Center Theatre, world premiere), “Our Town” (directed by Tony winner David Cromer, Barrow Street Theatre, Theatre World Award Recipient, Outstanding Off-Broadway debut),”The 4th Graders Present An Unnamed Love Suicide” (59E59).
Matt Gumley (Actor/Composer, “Fat Kid”) is thrilled to be at GFTF! Broadway: “Runaways” at Encores!, “Elf The Musical,” “The Addams Family,” “Mary Poppins.” Other performance credits: “Beauty and the Beast” (Off-Broadway) London Wall (Mint Theater), “Lost in Yonkers” (TACT Theatre), and “Distracted” (Roundabout). Regional: “Lost in Yonkers” (Barrington Stage), “Lord Of The Flies” (Denver Center Theater). Film: “Theresa Is A Mother,” “Blowtorch 2015.” TV: "Modern Family,” "The Americans," "Psych," "NYC 22," "Law & Order: SVU," "Drake and Josh," "Dora The Explorer” (Benny the Bull). Matt performs original music and covers of popular songs around NYC with his band. @MattGumley / www.MattGumley.com
Anya Guzman (Actor, “Ranked”) is a fourth-year at UC Davis studying biomedical engineering. In this year's festival, she performed as Isa in “Ranked” and Glow, Psyche, Summer in “Shining. She is excited to be a part of a loving theatre community who values sustainability!
Katie Halls (Actor, “Ranked”) is thrilled to be in her second year of the Ground and Field Theatre Festival! She is currently a fourth-year theatre and dance and English double major at UC Davis. Some recent roles include Sophie (“MAMMA MIA”) and Lorraine (“42nd Street”). She is excited to share this festival with the Davis community!
Yishan Hao (Actor, “Ranked”) is a fourth-year student majoring in psychology and minor in theatre and dance. She has been an assistant director in student drama club, and now she joins the ground and field festival as an actor. She will be in the ensemble of “Ranked,” and this is her first musical.
Tara Henry (Actor, “Fat Kid”) last appeared at Roseville Theatre Arts Academy as the Angel/Nurse Emily in parts 1&2 of “Angels in America.” Previous roles include Titus in “Titus Andronicus” (RTAA), Goneril in “King Lear” (TAAC), Emma/Ensemble in “The Behavior of Broadus” (Capital Stage), Cassandra in “Vanya & Sonia & Masha & Spike” (Main Street Theatre Works), Fanny Dashwood/Charlotte Palmer in “Sense & Sensibility” Charlotte/Mrs.Gardiner in “Pride & Prejudice” (Sacramento Theatre Company), Mildred in “The Secret Affairs of Mildred Wild” (The Costa Mesa Playhouse) and both Dromios in Comedy of Errors(Sac Shakespeare Festival).
Shang Her (Actor, “Ranked”) is a fifth-year student at UC Davis with a double major in theater and Asian American Studies. This is her first season with the Ground and Field Theater Festival. She has worked with Joseph Schupbach in his MFA piece, “All My Possessions for a Moment of Time.” She is also an active member of the Hmong Student Union at UC Davis.
Diana Huey* (Actor, “Fat Kid”) Diana is a New York based actor who has been a part of the “Fat Kid” family since June. Previous work includes Ariel in the national tour of “Disney’s The Little Mermaid” (Gregory Award), Kim in “Miss Saigon” (Helen Hayes Award), Sherrie in “Rock Of Ages.” Proud AEA Member. @DianaHuey
Erolina Kamburova (Actor, “Ranked”) is a multidisciplinary performer trained at the Berkeley Rep. Recent credits include performing in the world premiere of “Iron Shoes” at Shotgun Players, understudying for “Watch on the Rhine” at Berkeley Rep, and working as the 2019 MAD Marketing/Communications Fellow at Shotgun Players.
Charlie Lavaroni (Actor, “Fat Kid”) is a senior graduating this December studying Theater and English. Recent credits: Touchstone (“As You Like It”); Max Jacobs, Porter (“On The 20TH Century”); and Ensemble (“A Gentlemen’s Guide to Love and Murder”) at Davis Shakes; Pyp, Orell, Lilly (“Westeros Side Story”) at Bike City Theater. http://charlielavaroni.weebly.com
Danielle Levin* (Actor, “Burst”) is excited to be entering the UC Davis Dramatic Art MFA program and to be a part of the 2019 GFTF! A Bay Area actor and coach, Danielle has been seen at Marin Theatre Company, CentralWorks, Shotgun Players, and Crowded Fire, Aurora Theatre Company, Center REPertory Company, Just Theater, SF Playhouse, TheatreWorks, and Word for Word.
Shannon McCoy (Actor, Assistant Lighting Designer, “Ranked”) is excited to be back again working with all these wonderful people for her third year in the festival. This year, she is performing in “Shining” and “Ranked” as well as working as assistant lighting designer for “Ranked.” Notable previous works include “Flora the Red Menace,” “Light Delay” and “Hysterical.”
Kyle Nagasawa (Actor, “Ranked”) is entering his second year here at UC Davis. Back in Elk Grove, he performed at his high school's theatre, Franklin Theatre Company, and has been a part of various works in a student-run organization here in Davis called Studio 301. Previous roles of his include John Proctor in “The Crucible,” Judas/John the Baptist in “Godspell” and Ralphy Boland in “Dogfight.”
Stephanie Nielsen (Actor, “Fat Kid”) has previously worked as a dancer, stage manager, assistant director, choreographer, dance captain, and actor at UC Davis and is extremely excited to be performing in her first musical as well as being a dance captain and stage manager in Ground and Field! She’s very grateful for the opportunity!
Tiffany Nwogu (Actor, “Ranked”) is a fourth-year theatre and dance major and African American studies minor at UC Davis. She has appeared in Shakespeare’s “Richard III;” Pecola in “The Bluest Eye;” Fall’s 2018 UC Davis’ Ground and Field Festival as an ensemble member, Summer in “Summertime;” and Warrior Queen in Joe Schupbach’s MFA piece. She is excited to work with GFTF again and grow as an artist.
John Peceimer (Actor, “Fat Kid,” “Sustain Me”) acts. He has acted in California with companies like the Hillbarn Theater and Studio 301 Productions. He runs Studio 301 Productions as its President. He is pursuing a B.S. in neurophysiology and behavior from UC Davis.
Kyle Price (Actor, “Fat Kid”) is thrilled to be added to the “Fat Kid Rules the World” experience since August! Currently a New York-based actor as Finn in “Pip's Island” Off-Broadway. Previous work includes workshops of “Quantum Janis” (Guy) and “New Dawn” (Jessie), as well as national tours of “Pete the Cat” (Jimmy) and “Berenstain Bears Live” (Freddy). An alum of CAP21 Conservatory, there he did original works of “A Porter Party” (Marshall Keating), and “Fairy Tales Untold” (Travis Greisler). Other favorite roles include “Cry Baby” (Dupree), “Mary Poppins” (Robertson Ay) and “A Chorus Line” (Paul). Proud member of AEA. Special thanks to everyone involved with G&F for creating such a great experience! @kp.price
Raegan Price (Actor, “Ranked”) is so excited to be a part of Ground and Field this year! You may have previously seen her in “Love/Logic,” or in various Studio 301 productions, here at UC Davis. She is a fourth-year theater and dance major with a minor in Education.
Cole Ragsdale* (Actor, “Fat Kid”) is a New York-based actor. Having been a part of the “Fat Kid” family as Troy for over two years he is SO stoked to finally get the show up on its feet and be a part of the first production. Cole received a BFA from The Boston Conservatory. He performed Off-Broadway in “Gigantic the Musical” and can be seen on television in ABC’s “Manhattan Love Story.” For a chuckle, follow him @fat_king_cole on Instagram.
Aubrey Schoeman (Actor, “Burst,” Assistant Choreographer, “Ranked”) is a third-year theatre and dance major, Aubrey has danced in “Outside the Lines” and previously appeared as Maggie in “Flora the Red Menace,” Ensemble/Dance Captain in “Pippin” and Sharon in “Gibraltar.” She enjoys learning about the realm of choreography and performance within the department and is contented to be immersed in the beautiful, collective, joyous creation that is GFTF.
Noah VanderVeer-Harris (Actor, Fat Kid”) is a senior theater and dance major, minoring in professional writing. This is his first time participating in Ground and Field Theater Festival, and his first auditioned musical theater production since high school. He has had an absolute blast playing the role of Dayle Billings in “Fat Kid.”
Sam Votrian (Actor, “Ranked”) will be playing Frances in this season’s production of “Ranked.” He is a second-year student at UC Davis and is thrilled to be making his debut with Ground and Field. Sam has been acting for nine years, and considerable roles include Georg Nowack in “She Loves Me.”
Shelby Wulfert (Actor, “Ranked”) pursued her passion for the arts at an early age - studying acting, singing and dancing. She broadened her experience off-stage, doing commercial and voice over work. Shelby then moved to Los Angeles and joined the Disney family as one third of the team of actresses that bring the twin characters to life in the series: “Liv and Maddie.”
J. R. Yancher (Actor, “Fat Kid”) has appeared at Milwaukee Repertory Theater, Victory Gardens, Pacific Conservatory Theater, Capital Stage, Seattle Immersive Theater, Ten Chimneys and Davis Shakespeare Festival. On camera, J.R. has worked on internet, regional and national commercials as well as short films. He is the founding artistic director of Bike City Theatre Company which focuses on original works. Check out BCTC at bike city theatre.org!
Chloe Boyan (Actor, “Ranked”) is a theatre arts major at Southern Oregon University and this is her first season with the Ground and Field Festival. Previous credits include: Judas, “Jesus Christ Superstar;” Emily, “Our Town;” CJ, “The Unfortunates” [Amateur World Premiere] (Theatre at Granite Bay); Alice Kinian, “Flowers for Algernon” (Sierra College); and Dorothy, “The Wizard of Oz” (Roseville Theatre Arts Academy).
Sophie Brubaker (Actor, “Ranked,” “Sustain Me”) is a third-year double major at UC Davis in theatre and dance and human development. Previously, she’s played Charlotte in “Flora the Red Menace;” Annie in “Light the Way: A Bike Safety Musical,” Josephine in “Daisy Violet the Bitch Beast King,” a Diva in “Boxed Up: The Musical” and Rae in “The Unfortunates.”
Alyssa Buchthal (Actor, “Fat Kid”) is a fourth-year computer science and communication double major at UC Davis. Previous selected credits include Chippy in “Dogfight,” Viola in “Twelfth Night,” and Sol in “The Tale of The Sun, The Earth, and the Moon.” Alyssa is thrilled to appear this season as Tess in “Fat Kid Rules the World,” and Clymene in “Shining.”
Ben Carter (Actor, “Ranked”) is a senior theatre/psychology double major at UC Davis. Past credits include “LTW: A Bike Safety Musical” (Von Drais), “Dogfight” (adult male), “Pippin” (u/s Charles/Lewis, ensemble) in Davis, “Bye Bye Birdie” (Albert), “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” (Beast) in San Diego; and more. Instagram: @neb.carter
Olivia Caserta (Actor, “Ranked”) is a second year student at UC Davis pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre and Dance and Genetics, earlier this year she debuted in Studio 301’s production of “The Addams Family” (Alice Beineke). She has vocally trained with Music and More Arts Academy, and had previous involvement with Theatre at Granite Bay productions.
Nate Challis (Actor, “Ranked”) is proud and excited to be involved with the Ground and Field Theatre Festival. Nate is a fourth-year communications major. You may have seen him recently in “Flora the Red Menace” (Harry Toukarian), or “Evil Dead The Musical’ (Ash).
Olivia Coca (Actor, “Fat Kid”) is a theater and dance undergraduate student at UC Davis who transferred from Foothill College last fall. She’s been preforming since she was four years old and has attended several acting schools throughout her life in New York City, Spain and San Francisco. She is trained in theater and camera work. She appeared as Browne and Elaine in “{LOVE/logic}.”
Andre Cordner (Actor, “Fat Kid”) started his theater career over the past year, and Ground and Field came at the right moment to cultivate his skills. He is excited to encounter new experiences theater has to offer, as well as work with industry professionals over the coming weeks.
JP De Leon (Actor, “Ranked”) is an actor, singer, dancer, and writer. While only recently graduated from high school in the Class of 2018, his acting and theater experience has been broadened by his involvement with the Ridgeview High drama department and art intensives like CSSSA or the founding of The Ovation Theatre.
Sean Dela Pena (Actor, “Ranked”) is excited to make his debut with Ground and Field! Sean is a fifth year animal science major/theater minor who is thrilled to be a part of the Ensemble and work on “Ranked.”
Talia Friedenberg (Actor, “Fat Kid”) is thrilled to be returning to Ground and Field for a third season! This year she is excited to be working both on and off stage, as Carnation in “Fat Kid Rules the World” and the assistant director for “Shining.” Recent credits: Manuela in “The Tenth Muse” with Davis Shakespeare Festival.
Rory Gaynor-Flynn (Actor, “Fat Kid”) is a third year UC Davis student, NPB major. You may have seen him in “{LOVE/logic}” as Daniel and Michael. Acting is Rory’s passion and he is very excited to perform in this festival. He hopes to someday take his acting ability to larger stages and movies.
Jennifer Grace* (Actor, “Burst”) is delighted to be participating in GFTF. She is an incoming MFA student and a professional actor. New York theatre credits: “Nikolai And The Others” (Lincoln Center Theatre, world premiere), “Our Town” (directed by Tony winner David Cromer, Barrow Street Theatre, Theatre World Award Recipient, Outstanding Off-Broadway debut),”The 4th Graders Present An Unnamed Love Suicide” (59E59).
Matt Gumley (Actor/Composer, “Fat Kid”) is thrilled to be at GFTF! Broadway: “Runaways” at Encores!, “Elf The Musical,” “The Addams Family,” “Mary Poppins.” Other performance credits: “Beauty and the Beast” (Off-Broadway) London Wall (Mint Theater), “Lost in Yonkers” (TACT Theatre), and “Distracted” (Roundabout). Regional: “Lost in Yonkers” (Barrington Stage), “Lord Of The Flies” (Denver Center Theater). Film: “Theresa Is A Mother,” “Blowtorch 2015.” TV: "Modern Family,” "The Americans," "Psych," "NYC 22," "Law & Order: SVU," "Drake and Josh," "Dora The Explorer” (Benny the Bull). Matt performs original music and covers of popular songs around NYC with his band. @MattGumley / www.MattGumley.com
Anya Guzman (Actor, “Ranked”) is a fourth-year at UC Davis studying biomedical engineering. In this year's festival, she performed as Isa in “Ranked” and Glow, Psyche, Summer in “Shining. She is excited to be a part of a loving theatre community who values sustainability!
Katie Halls (Actor, “Ranked”) is thrilled to be in her second year of the Ground and Field Theatre Festival! She is currently a fourth-year theatre and dance and English double major at UC Davis. Some recent roles include Sophie (“MAMMA MIA”) and Lorraine (“42nd Street”). She is excited to share this festival with the Davis community!
Yishan Hao (Actor, “Ranked”) is a fourth-year student majoring in psychology and minor in theatre and dance. She has been an assistant director in student drama club, and now she joins the ground and field festival as an actor. She will be in the ensemble of “Ranked,” and this is her first musical.
Tara Henry (Actor, “Fat Kid”) last appeared at Roseville Theatre Arts Academy as the Angel/Nurse Emily in parts 1&2 of “Angels in America.” Previous roles include Titus in “Titus Andronicus” (RTAA), Goneril in “King Lear” (TAAC), Emma/Ensemble in “The Behavior of Broadus” (Capital Stage), Cassandra in “Vanya & Sonia & Masha & Spike” (Main Street Theatre Works), Fanny Dashwood/Charlotte Palmer in “Sense & Sensibility” Charlotte/Mrs.Gardiner in “Pride & Prejudice” (Sacramento Theatre Company), Mildred in “The Secret Affairs of Mildred Wild” (The Costa Mesa Playhouse) and both Dromios in Comedy of Errors(Sac Shakespeare Festival).
Shang Her (Actor, “Ranked”) is a fifth-year student at UC Davis with a double major in theater and Asian American Studies. This is her first season with the Ground and Field Theater Festival. She has worked with Joseph Schupbach in his MFA piece, “All My Possessions for a Moment of Time.” She is also an active member of the Hmong Student Union at UC Davis.
Diana Huey* (Actor, “Fat Kid”) Diana is a New York based actor who has been a part of the “Fat Kid” family since June. Previous work includes Ariel in the national tour of “Disney’s The Little Mermaid” (Gregory Award), Kim in “Miss Saigon” (Helen Hayes Award), Sherrie in “Rock Of Ages.” Proud AEA Member. @DianaHuey
Erolina Kamburova (Actor, “Ranked”) is a multidisciplinary performer trained at the Berkeley Rep. Recent credits include performing in the world premiere of “Iron Shoes” at Shotgun Players, understudying for “Watch on the Rhine” at Berkeley Rep, and working as the 2019 MAD Marketing/Communications Fellow at Shotgun Players.
Charlie Lavaroni (Actor, “Fat Kid”) is a senior graduating this December studying Theater and English. Recent credits: Touchstone (“As You Like It”); Max Jacobs, Porter (“On The 20TH Century”); and Ensemble (“A Gentlemen’s Guide to Love and Murder”) at Davis Shakes; Pyp, Orell, Lilly (“Westeros Side Story”) at Bike City Theater. http://charlielavaroni.weebly.com
Danielle Levin* (Actor, “Burst”) is excited to be entering the UC Davis Dramatic Art MFA program and to be a part of the 2019 GFTF! A Bay Area actor and coach, Danielle has been seen at Marin Theatre Company, CentralWorks, Shotgun Players, and Crowded Fire, Aurora Theatre Company, Center REPertory Company, Just Theater, SF Playhouse, TheatreWorks, and Word for Word.
Shannon McCoy (Actor, Assistant Lighting Designer, “Ranked”) is excited to be back again working with all these wonderful people for her third year in the festival. This year, she is performing in “Shining” and “Ranked” as well as working as assistant lighting designer for “Ranked.” Notable previous works include “Flora the Red Menace,” “Light Delay” and “Hysterical.”
Kyle Nagasawa (Actor, “Ranked”) is entering his second year here at UC Davis. Back in Elk Grove, he performed at his high school's theatre, Franklin Theatre Company, and has been a part of various works in a student-run organization here in Davis called Studio 301. Previous roles of his include John Proctor in “The Crucible,” Judas/John the Baptist in “Godspell” and Ralphy Boland in “Dogfight.”
Stephanie Nielsen (Actor, “Fat Kid”) has previously worked as a dancer, stage manager, assistant director, choreographer, dance captain, and actor at UC Davis and is extremely excited to be performing in her first musical as well as being a dance captain and stage manager in Ground and Field! She’s very grateful for the opportunity!
Tiffany Nwogu (Actor, “Ranked”) is a fourth-year theatre and dance major and African American studies minor at UC Davis. She has appeared in Shakespeare’s “Richard III;” Pecola in “The Bluest Eye;” Fall’s 2018 UC Davis’ Ground and Field Festival as an ensemble member, Summer in “Summertime;” and Warrior Queen in Joe Schupbach’s MFA piece. She is excited to work with GFTF again and grow as an artist.
John Peceimer (Actor, “Fat Kid,” “Sustain Me”) acts. He has acted in California with companies like the Hillbarn Theater and Studio 301 Productions. He runs Studio 301 Productions as its President. He is pursuing a B.S. in neurophysiology and behavior from UC Davis.
Kyle Price (Actor, “Fat Kid”) is thrilled to be added to the “Fat Kid Rules the World” experience since August! Currently a New York-based actor as Finn in “Pip's Island” Off-Broadway. Previous work includes workshops of “Quantum Janis” (Guy) and “New Dawn” (Jessie), as well as national tours of “Pete the Cat” (Jimmy) and “Berenstain Bears Live” (Freddy). An alum of CAP21 Conservatory, there he did original works of “A Porter Party” (Marshall Keating), and “Fairy Tales Untold” (Travis Greisler). Other favorite roles include “Cry Baby” (Dupree), “Mary Poppins” (Robertson Ay) and “A Chorus Line” (Paul). Proud member of AEA. Special thanks to everyone involved with G&F for creating such a great experience! @kp.price
Raegan Price (Actor, “Ranked”) is so excited to be a part of Ground and Field this year! You may have previously seen her in “Love/Logic,” or in various Studio 301 productions, here at UC Davis. She is a fourth-year theater and dance major with a minor in Education.
Cole Ragsdale* (Actor, “Fat Kid”) is a New York-based actor. Having been a part of the “Fat Kid” family as Troy for over two years he is SO stoked to finally get the show up on its feet and be a part of the first production. Cole received a BFA from The Boston Conservatory. He performed Off-Broadway in “Gigantic the Musical” and can be seen on television in ABC’s “Manhattan Love Story.” For a chuckle, follow him @fat_king_cole on Instagram.
Aubrey Schoeman (Actor, “Burst,” Assistant Choreographer, “Ranked”) is a third-year theatre and dance major, Aubrey has danced in “Outside the Lines” and previously appeared as Maggie in “Flora the Red Menace,” Ensemble/Dance Captain in “Pippin” and Sharon in “Gibraltar.” She enjoys learning about the realm of choreography and performance within the department and is contented to be immersed in the beautiful, collective, joyous creation that is GFTF.
Noah VanderVeer-Harris (Actor, Fat Kid”) is a senior theater and dance major, minoring in professional writing. This is his first time participating in Ground and Field Theater Festival, and his first auditioned musical theater production since high school. He has had an absolute blast playing the role of Dayle Billings in “Fat Kid.”
Sam Votrian (Actor, “Ranked”) will be playing Frances in this season’s production of “Ranked.” He is a second-year student at UC Davis and is thrilled to be making his debut with Ground and Field. Sam has been acting for nine years, and considerable roles include Georg Nowack in “She Loves Me.”
Shelby Wulfert (Actor, “Ranked”) pursued her passion for the arts at an early age - studying acting, singing and dancing. She broadened her experience off-stage, doing commercial and voice over work. Shelby then moved to Los Angeles and joined the Disney family as one third of the team of actresses that bring the twin characters to life in the series: “Liv and Maddie.”
J. R. Yancher (Actor, “Fat Kid”) has appeared at Milwaukee Repertory Theater, Victory Gardens, Pacific Conservatory Theater, Capital Stage, Seattle Immersive Theater, Ten Chimneys and Davis Shakespeare Festival. On camera, J.R. has worked on internet, regional and national commercials as well as short films. He is the founding artistic director of Bike City Theatre Company which focuses on original works. Check out BCTC at bike city theatre.org!
Festival Leadership
Tom Burmester
Founding Director |
Mindy Cooper
Founding Director |
Lisa Quoresimo
Founding Director |
Danika Sudik
Founding Director |
Joseph Fletcher (Production Stage Manager) freelances as a director, designer, and stage manager. In various capacities he has worked with the Walnut Street Theatre, Cirque Du Soleil, The Signature Theatre, Prospect Theatre Company, TheatreSquared, Target Margin Theatre, and Orlando Shakespeare Theatre. Previous credits include Chicago the Musical (National Tour), Heartless, The Tempest, Purim-Schmitz, China the Whole Enchilada (NYC), Las Posadas, Alley 38, War of the Worlds, The Pillowman, Candide, and The Sunshine Boys (Regional). As a producer and arts administrator he helped found the Artist’s Laboratory Theatre, a nonprofit community based devised theatre company in Fayetteville, AR. Currently, Joseph tours originally created shows across North America with Breaker/Fixer Productions. These shows There Ain’t No More and A Confederate Widow in Hell have received 11 festival awards and have been recognized by the Washington Post, Candian Broadcasting Company, and NPR. He holds a BFA in Theatre from the University of Central Florida.
creative teams
BURST
Rachel Bublitz (Playwright) is an award winning and internationally produced playwright. “Burst” has had readings around the country and she’s thrilled to be developing it further here at the Ground & Field Theatre Festival. Her play “Ripped” was produced at Z Space and Good Company Theatre. Her commissioned play, “The Night Witches,” received a world premiere this year with the Egyptian YouTheatre at the Salt Lake Fringe Festival where it received a sold out run. She was awarded the June Anne Baker Prize from PayGround, and won the 2018 Detroit New Works Festival. www.RachelBublitz.com
FAT KID RULES THE WORLD
Jay Falzone (Book & Lyrics) selected writing credits: Off-B'way: “Camp Morning Wood” (Book/Lyrics), Regional: “Divorce Party, The Musical” (Lyrics / Co-writer), “Dear Mom” (Co-writer), “Parenting 101” (Co-writer/ Director/ Choreographer), and “You Don’t Know Jack” (Book/ Lyrics). As one of the creators of “The Calamari Sisters,” Jay has written the book and additional lyrics for “Cooking with The Calamari Sisters” as well as its eight follow-up shows, all of which have been touring the country since 2009.
Evan Jay Newman (Additional Material) recently finished playing Frankie Valli in “Jersey Boys” with NCL/Dodger Theatricals and currently performs with CAROLE’S KINGS, an all-male tribute to Carole King. As a musician, Evan assisted composer/lyricist Andrew Lippa for two years and spent late 2010/early 2011 assisting Brian Lowdermilk.
Marc Eardley (Director & Conceiver) Selected New York directing: “Camp Morning Wood: a very naked musical,” “Get GOT: A New Musical,” “Death Party,” “Liner Notes,” “The Affair in 22B,” “Thatʼs Showbiz!,” “Long Division,” “Standby” (Fringe), “Really Bad Things” (NYMF) “Women and Guns” (MITF), Regionally: “Hair,” “South Pacific,” “Hedwig and the Angry Inch,” “Nine,” “All Shook Up,” “Harvey,” “Fools.” Selected Stage Managing: “50 Shades: the Original Parody” (Maximum Entertainment), “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” “Seussical,” “The God Committee” (Lamb's Theater), “All the Bad Things” (LAB Theatre), “Childrenʼs Letters to God” (1st national tour), “From My Hometown,” “ROAR” (The New Group), “Thankskilling: The Musical” among many others. Book writer: “Son of Captain Blood” (the story of Sean and Errol Flynn). Marc also conceived and directed Broadway’s “Epic Fail: Songs from movies that should never be musicals,” a successful concert series and now TV pilot. He is developing, with Crystal Skillman and Bobby Cronin the new musical “How to Repair a Mechanical Heart” among other exciting projects coming up in 2020.
Ian Coulter-Buford (Choreographer) most recent work seen Off-Broadway in “Camp Morning Wood.” Other work has been seen on your screens and on stages globally. Notable credits include: “Damn Baby 211” starring TONY Nominee Brenda Braxton, “FUZION” for Six Flags Theme Park, “Radio Disney Road Crew” Tour for Walt Disney Company, “Back O’ Town” for NYC Midtown Theatre Festival, “Soulful Hit Parade” (Assistant) for Norwegian Cruise Lines, and Off-Broadway’s “House of LeBlanc” (Assistant). Let's connect @iancoulterbuford
James Dobinson (Music Director) is a New York-based Australian music director, conductor, orchestrator and record producer. NEW YORK/USA ORIGINAL COMPANIES: “The View UpStairs” [Music Supervisor /Orchestrations], “Clinton” [MD/Arrangements], “Between Gods & Kings” [Music Supervisor], “Fancy Nancy” [MD], “When We're Gone” [MD], “Mann...and Wife” [MD] LONDON: “The View Upstairs” [Music Supervisor] US NATIONAL TOUR: “Guys And Dolls” 2015 Tour [Orchestrations]. AUSTRALIA: Tim Finn's “Twelfth Night” [Music Supervisor/Arrangements & Orchestrations], Joh For PM!
Shoka Kambara (Scenic Design) Plays: “Native Gardens,” (Syracuse Stage, Geva Theatre, Portland Stage), “A Christmas Carol,” “Degage,” “CHICAGO The Musical,” Into The Woods” (Hangar Theatre), “Animals Out of Paper” (Hudson Stage Company), “The Turn of the Screw,” “Next to Normal,” “The Bombitty of Errors” (Syracuse Stage), “Shining City” (Nevada Conservatory Theatre, Las Vegas). Musicals: “Little Girl Blue” (World Premiere, George Street Playhouse), “Holiday Inn,” “Always…Patsy Cline,” “Guys and Dolls” (Fingerlakes Musical Theatre Festival), “Disney’s The Little Mermaid” (Arkansas Repertory Theatre), “Nice Work If You Can Get It” (National Tour, Worklight Productions) Opera: “The Prince of Players” (World Premiere, Houston Grand Opera), “The Barber of Seville” (Opera Philadelphia, Opera Theatre of St. Louis - St Louis Theater Circle Award for Outstanding Set Design, Opera Omaha, Virginia Opera, Lyric Opera of Kansas City), “Don Pasquale” (Juilliard School) www.shokokambara.com
Gregory Gale (Costume Design) Broadway: “Cyrano de Bergerac,” “Rock of Ages” (Tony and Henry Hewes nominations); “Arcadia;” “The Wedding Singer;” “Urinetown.” Off-Broadway: “After,” “Still at Risk,” “Daniel’s Husband,” “To Wong Foo,” “Hood” (also Prague Quadrennial 2019), “Fairycakes.” Opera: “The Prince of Players” (Houston Grand Opera); “American Soldier” (St. Louis Opera); Film & TV: “The Mental State” (feature) “Real Drag” (short), “New Year’s Eve 2018” with John Legend (NBC). Upcoming: “Blinded by Ed” (feature); “El Milagro Del Recuerdo” (World premiere, Houston Grand Opera); “American Soldier” (BAM); “Cagney” (Broadway). Awards: Irene Sharaff Young Master Award. Social Media: www.gregorygale.com www.instagram.com/gregory_gale
Zach Pizza (Lighting Designer) is excited to join the GFTF team! Recent productions include: “Camp Morning Wood” (Playwrights Horizon), Jason Robert Brown in concert featuring Stephen Sondheim (Town Hall, NYC), “Big Bang Theory Parody Musical” (Theater Center), “Stage Life,” (Theater Row), “On the Head of a Pin” (59E59). Regional Credits: Dreamcatcher Repertory Theater-NJ (Resident LD), Sharon Playhouse-CT, Little Theater on the Square-IL, Whyte Hall-NY, Cape May Stage-NJ. Staff Designer - SubCulture NYC, monthly Jason Robert Brown concerts. Purchase College Alumni. www.zachpizzalighting.com
Mike Deyo (Sound Design) is a New York City-based sound designer and engineer. His recent credits include: Assistant Sound Designer on “A Strange Loop” (Playwrights Horizons); Sound Designer on “Radium Girls” (Bucks Rock Performing and Creative Arts Camp); Lead Audio on “The New Englanders” (Manhattan Theater Club); Co-Production Audio on “Run Boy Run/In Old Age” (New York Theater Workshop). Lead Audio on “Continuity” (Manhattan Theater Club); Assistant Sound Designer on “Fat Kid Rules the World” (Theatre Row).
Emma Weiss (Music Assistant) is a music director, educator, and repertoire coach from New York City. She holds an M.A in Musical Theater Music Directing from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and a B.A in Music from Skidmore College. Emma has worked as a music director and collaborator for cabarets and concerts at 54 Below, Joe’s Pub, The Django, The Duplex, Rockwood Music Hall, Don't Tell Mama's and The Tank. As a passionate educator, she has music directed productions and classes at Cap 21, Riverdale Country School, The Dalton School, Horace Greeley High School, Applause NY, Child's Play NY, and Actors Technique NY. She has worked as a Music Assistant Off-Broadway on Max Vernon's “The View Upstairs,” as the Associate MD of “Fun Home,” at the Weston Playhouse, and recently as a music director at inaugural summer rep season of the Parallel 45 Theater Company.
Lynnae Vana (Stage Manager) is a proud member of Actor's Equity Association and Resident Stage Manager at B Street Theatre, Sacramento. She graduated from Elon University with a BFA in Acting and a BA in Theatrical Production and Design. Lynnae has worked in the Sacramento area as a Stage Manager for the last nine years working over 45 productions. Her credits include: “The Last Match,” “The Forever Question,” “Holmes and Watson,” “House on Haunted Hill” and “The Legend of Georgia McBride” at B Street Theatre; “Maple and Vine” and “Homecoming” at Capitol Stage. She has also worked as a Sound, Lighting and Prop Designer.
Ashley Ricafrente (Assistant Stage Manager) is a second year managerial economics and psychology double major at UC Davis. This is her first season of Ground and Field; she is an assistant stage manager for “Fat Kid Rules the World” and stage manager for “White Monochrome Kingdom.”
Diane Camacho (Assistant Stage Manager) is excited and thankful to be part of the scenic design for “Burst” with Ground and Field. She is an upcoming senior at UC Davis with a major in design and a minor in theatre and dance.
RANKED, A NEW MUSICAL
Kyle Holmes (Book) is an educator, director, playwright and member of The Dramatists Guild of America. As the Director of Theatre Arts at Granite Bay High School for the past nine seasons, he has produced and directed over twenty main stage productions, and his students have gone on to create art in Los Angeles, New York City, Ashland, Oregon, and across the United States. Kyle attended UC Davis from 2008-2012, receiving his B.A. in English, single subject teaching credential for English, and M.A. in Education.
David Taylor Gomes (Musical Director, Music/Lyrics) is a composer, actor, music director and educator. He is a member of Actor's Equity Association, The Dramatists Guild of America, and the American Society of Composers and Publishers. Acting: The Host in “Musical of Musicals: the Musical” and The Suspects in “Murder for Two” (Sacramento Theatre Company). Musical Direction: “Mr. Burns: A Post-Electric Play” (Capital Stage), “Wonderful Town” (Davis Shakespeare Ensemble) and “The Unfortunates” (Theatre at Granite Bay). David is a co-founder of The Sacramento Musician’s Collective, where he coaches actors and singers, many of whom have gone on to perform professionally in New York, Los Angeles and in the West End.
Kikyou Yan (闫天行) (Costume Design, “Ranked,” Burst”) graduated from the University of Denver with a bachelors in theatre arts. Currently pursuing her masters at UC Davis, focusing on costume design in the realm of stage and screen. She designed the costumes for {LOVE/logic} last May.
Patrick O’Reilly (Lighting Design, “Ranked,” “Burst”) Previous designs include “Winter’s Waltz” at R Street Theatre, “Beauty and the Beast Ballet” at Hawkins Dance Academy, and “In Love and Warcraft” at American River College. He enjoys a position as part of the ensemble production staff of the UC Davis Theatre and Dance Department. He would like to thank his friend and mentor, Kathy Burleson, for her invaluable support.
Corinne Balmain (Stage Manager) is a senior at UC Davis working on a theatre and dance degree with a focus on technical theatre. Previously she has stage managed “{LOVE/Logic}”, “Flora the Red Menace” with UC Davis along with “West Side Story,” “Peter Pan,” and “Lend Me a Tenor” at American River College.
Daniel Lin (Assistant Stage Manager, Stage Manager “Sustain Me”) is currently a second-year mechanical engineer major with interests in minoring in Theater and Dance. This is his first year participating in the Ground and Field Festival. He has previous experience as an ASM for Outside the Lines. He is currently the Stage Manager for Sustain Me and the ASM for “Ranked.”
SUSTAIN ME
Sarah Vander Schaaff (Playwright) is a playwright and journalist, whose work frequently appears in The Washington Post Health and Science Section as well as their national blogs on education and parenting. Her play, “Daughters of the Amendment,” examining backlash to the Equal Rights Amendment, advanced to the second round at this year’s Austin Film Festival. Sarah has a BS in theater from Northwestern University and an MFA from the University of Alabama/Alabama Shakespeare Festival.
*Members of Actors Equity
Rachel Bublitz (Playwright) is an award winning and internationally produced playwright. “Burst” has had readings around the country and she’s thrilled to be developing it further here at the Ground & Field Theatre Festival. Her play “Ripped” was produced at Z Space and Good Company Theatre. Her commissioned play, “The Night Witches,” received a world premiere this year with the Egyptian YouTheatre at the Salt Lake Fringe Festival where it received a sold out run. She was awarded the June Anne Baker Prize from PayGround, and won the 2018 Detroit New Works Festival. www.RachelBublitz.com
FAT KID RULES THE WORLD
Jay Falzone (Book & Lyrics) selected writing credits: Off-B'way: “Camp Morning Wood” (Book/Lyrics), Regional: “Divorce Party, The Musical” (Lyrics / Co-writer), “Dear Mom” (Co-writer), “Parenting 101” (Co-writer/ Director/ Choreographer), and “You Don’t Know Jack” (Book/ Lyrics). As one of the creators of “The Calamari Sisters,” Jay has written the book and additional lyrics for “Cooking with The Calamari Sisters” as well as its eight follow-up shows, all of which have been touring the country since 2009.
Evan Jay Newman (Additional Material) recently finished playing Frankie Valli in “Jersey Boys” with NCL/Dodger Theatricals and currently performs with CAROLE’S KINGS, an all-male tribute to Carole King. As a musician, Evan assisted composer/lyricist Andrew Lippa for two years and spent late 2010/early 2011 assisting Brian Lowdermilk.
Marc Eardley (Director & Conceiver) Selected New York directing: “Camp Morning Wood: a very naked musical,” “Get GOT: A New Musical,” “Death Party,” “Liner Notes,” “The Affair in 22B,” “Thatʼs Showbiz!,” “Long Division,” “Standby” (Fringe), “Really Bad Things” (NYMF) “Women and Guns” (MITF), Regionally: “Hair,” “South Pacific,” “Hedwig and the Angry Inch,” “Nine,” “All Shook Up,” “Harvey,” “Fools.” Selected Stage Managing: “50 Shades: the Original Parody” (Maximum Entertainment), “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” “Seussical,” “The God Committee” (Lamb's Theater), “All the Bad Things” (LAB Theatre), “Childrenʼs Letters to God” (1st national tour), “From My Hometown,” “ROAR” (The New Group), “Thankskilling: The Musical” among many others. Book writer: “Son of Captain Blood” (the story of Sean and Errol Flynn). Marc also conceived and directed Broadway’s “Epic Fail: Songs from movies that should never be musicals,” a successful concert series and now TV pilot. He is developing, with Crystal Skillman and Bobby Cronin the new musical “How to Repair a Mechanical Heart” among other exciting projects coming up in 2020.
Ian Coulter-Buford (Choreographer) most recent work seen Off-Broadway in “Camp Morning Wood.” Other work has been seen on your screens and on stages globally. Notable credits include: “Damn Baby 211” starring TONY Nominee Brenda Braxton, “FUZION” for Six Flags Theme Park, “Radio Disney Road Crew” Tour for Walt Disney Company, “Back O’ Town” for NYC Midtown Theatre Festival, “Soulful Hit Parade” (Assistant) for Norwegian Cruise Lines, and Off-Broadway’s “House of LeBlanc” (Assistant). Let's connect @iancoulterbuford
James Dobinson (Music Director) is a New York-based Australian music director, conductor, orchestrator and record producer. NEW YORK/USA ORIGINAL COMPANIES: “The View UpStairs” [Music Supervisor /Orchestrations], “Clinton” [MD/Arrangements], “Between Gods & Kings” [Music Supervisor], “Fancy Nancy” [MD], “When We're Gone” [MD], “Mann...and Wife” [MD] LONDON: “The View Upstairs” [Music Supervisor] US NATIONAL TOUR: “Guys And Dolls” 2015 Tour [Orchestrations]. AUSTRALIA: Tim Finn's “Twelfth Night” [Music Supervisor/Arrangements & Orchestrations], Joh For PM!
Shoka Kambara (Scenic Design) Plays: “Native Gardens,” (Syracuse Stage, Geva Theatre, Portland Stage), “A Christmas Carol,” “Degage,” “CHICAGO The Musical,” Into The Woods” (Hangar Theatre), “Animals Out of Paper” (Hudson Stage Company), “The Turn of the Screw,” “Next to Normal,” “The Bombitty of Errors” (Syracuse Stage), “Shining City” (Nevada Conservatory Theatre, Las Vegas). Musicals: “Little Girl Blue” (World Premiere, George Street Playhouse), “Holiday Inn,” “Always…Patsy Cline,” “Guys and Dolls” (Fingerlakes Musical Theatre Festival), “Disney’s The Little Mermaid” (Arkansas Repertory Theatre), “Nice Work If You Can Get It” (National Tour, Worklight Productions) Opera: “The Prince of Players” (World Premiere, Houston Grand Opera), “The Barber of Seville” (Opera Philadelphia, Opera Theatre of St. Louis - St Louis Theater Circle Award for Outstanding Set Design, Opera Omaha, Virginia Opera, Lyric Opera of Kansas City), “Don Pasquale” (Juilliard School) www.shokokambara.com
Gregory Gale (Costume Design) Broadway: “Cyrano de Bergerac,” “Rock of Ages” (Tony and Henry Hewes nominations); “Arcadia;” “The Wedding Singer;” “Urinetown.” Off-Broadway: “After,” “Still at Risk,” “Daniel’s Husband,” “To Wong Foo,” “Hood” (also Prague Quadrennial 2019), “Fairycakes.” Opera: “The Prince of Players” (Houston Grand Opera); “American Soldier” (St. Louis Opera); Film & TV: “The Mental State” (feature) “Real Drag” (short), “New Year’s Eve 2018” with John Legend (NBC). Upcoming: “Blinded by Ed” (feature); “El Milagro Del Recuerdo” (World premiere, Houston Grand Opera); “American Soldier” (BAM); “Cagney” (Broadway). Awards: Irene Sharaff Young Master Award. Social Media: www.gregorygale.com www.instagram.com/gregory_gale
Zach Pizza (Lighting Designer) is excited to join the GFTF team! Recent productions include: “Camp Morning Wood” (Playwrights Horizon), Jason Robert Brown in concert featuring Stephen Sondheim (Town Hall, NYC), “Big Bang Theory Parody Musical” (Theater Center), “Stage Life,” (Theater Row), “On the Head of a Pin” (59E59). Regional Credits: Dreamcatcher Repertory Theater-NJ (Resident LD), Sharon Playhouse-CT, Little Theater on the Square-IL, Whyte Hall-NY, Cape May Stage-NJ. Staff Designer - SubCulture NYC, monthly Jason Robert Brown concerts. Purchase College Alumni. www.zachpizzalighting.com
Mike Deyo (Sound Design) is a New York City-based sound designer and engineer. His recent credits include: Assistant Sound Designer on “A Strange Loop” (Playwrights Horizons); Sound Designer on “Radium Girls” (Bucks Rock Performing and Creative Arts Camp); Lead Audio on “The New Englanders” (Manhattan Theater Club); Co-Production Audio on “Run Boy Run/In Old Age” (New York Theater Workshop). Lead Audio on “Continuity” (Manhattan Theater Club); Assistant Sound Designer on “Fat Kid Rules the World” (Theatre Row).
Emma Weiss (Music Assistant) is a music director, educator, and repertoire coach from New York City. She holds an M.A in Musical Theater Music Directing from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and a B.A in Music from Skidmore College. Emma has worked as a music director and collaborator for cabarets and concerts at 54 Below, Joe’s Pub, The Django, The Duplex, Rockwood Music Hall, Don't Tell Mama's and The Tank. As a passionate educator, she has music directed productions and classes at Cap 21, Riverdale Country School, The Dalton School, Horace Greeley High School, Applause NY, Child's Play NY, and Actors Technique NY. She has worked as a Music Assistant Off-Broadway on Max Vernon's “The View Upstairs,” as the Associate MD of “Fun Home,” at the Weston Playhouse, and recently as a music director at inaugural summer rep season of the Parallel 45 Theater Company.
Lynnae Vana (Stage Manager) is a proud member of Actor's Equity Association and Resident Stage Manager at B Street Theatre, Sacramento. She graduated from Elon University with a BFA in Acting and a BA in Theatrical Production and Design. Lynnae has worked in the Sacramento area as a Stage Manager for the last nine years working over 45 productions. Her credits include: “The Last Match,” “The Forever Question,” “Holmes and Watson,” “House on Haunted Hill” and “The Legend of Georgia McBride” at B Street Theatre; “Maple and Vine” and “Homecoming” at Capitol Stage. She has also worked as a Sound, Lighting and Prop Designer.
Ashley Ricafrente (Assistant Stage Manager) is a second year managerial economics and psychology double major at UC Davis. This is her first season of Ground and Field; she is an assistant stage manager for “Fat Kid Rules the World” and stage manager for “White Monochrome Kingdom.”
Diane Camacho (Assistant Stage Manager) is excited and thankful to be part of the scenic design for “Burst” with Ground and Field. She is an upcoming senior at UC Davis with a major in design and a minor in theatre and dance.
RANKED, A NEW MUSICAL
Kyle Holmes (Book) is an educator, director, playwright and member of The Dramatists Guild of America. As the Director of Theatre Arts at Granite Bay High School for the past nine seasons, he has produced and directed over twenty main stage productions, and his students have gone on to create art in Los Angeles, New York City, Ashland, Oregon, and across the United States. Kyle attended UC Davis from 2008-2012, receiving his B.A. in English, single subject teaching credential for English, and M.A. in Education.
David Taylor Gomes (Musical Director, Music/Lyrics) is a composer, actor, music director and educator. He is a member of Actor's Equity Association, The Dramatists Guild of America, and the American Society of Composers and Publishers. Acting: The Host in “Musical of Musicals: the Musical” and The Suspects in “Murder for Two” (Sacramento Theatre Company). Musical Direction: “Mr. Burns: A Post-Electric Play” (Capital Stage), “Wonderful Town” (Davis Shakespeare Ensemble) and “The Unfortunates” (Theatre at Granite Bay). David is a co-founder of The Sacramento Musician’s Collective, where he coaches actors and singers, many of whom have gone on to perform professionally in New York, Los Angeles and in the West End.
Kikyou Yan (闫天行) (Costume Design, “Ranked,” Burst”) graduated from the University of Denver with a bachelors in theatre arts. Currently pursuing her masters at UC Davis, focusing on costume design in the realm of stage and screen. She designed the costumes for {LOVE/logic} last May.
Patrick O’Reilly (Lighting Design, “Ranked,” “Burst”) Previous designs include “Winter’s Waltz” at R Street Theatre, “Beauty and the Beast Ballet” at Hawkins Dance Academy, and “In Love and Warcraft” at American River College. He enjoys a position as part of the ensemble production staff of the UC Davis Theatre and Dance Department. He would like to thank his friend and mentor, Kathy Burleson, for her invaluable support.
Corinne Balmain (Stage Manager) is a senior at UC Davis working on a theatre and dance degree with a focus on technical theatre. Previously she has stage managed “{LOVE/Logic}”, “Flora the Red Menace” with UC Davis along with “West Side Story,” “Peter Pan,” and “Lend Me a Tenor” at American River College.
Daniel Lin (Assistant Stage Manager, Stage Manager “Sustain Me”) is currently a second-year mechanical engineer major with interests in minoring in Theater and Dance. This is his first year participating in the Ground and Field Festival. He has previous experience as an ASM for Outside the Lines. He is currently the Stage Manager for Sustain Me and the ASM for “Ranked.”
SUSTAIN ME
Sarah Vander Schaaff (Playwright) is a playwright and journalist, whose work frequently appears in The Washington Post Health and Science Section as well as their national blogs on education and parenting. Her play, “Daughters of the Amendment,” examining backlash to the Equal Rights Amendment, advanced to the second round at this year’s Austin Film Festival. Sarah has a BS in theater from Northwestern University and an MFA from the University of Alabama/Alabama Shakespeare Festival.
*Members of Actors Equity
GROUND AND FIELD THEATRE FESTIVAL
|
CREW
Assistant to Production Manager Cortha McNair Scenic Construction Jazmin Alvarado, Danil Diordiev, Annie Houston,Nadia Kaspersky., Audrey Martel, Lillian Martinez, Cortha McNair, Amber Zarevich Festival Properties Artisan Annie Houston Assistant Properties Michelle DeMoss Lighting Technicians Shannon McCoy, Cortha McNair, Daniel Tiffany-Appleton, Avery Williamson Audio/Visual Technicians Danil Diordiev, Nadia Kaspersky, Guanqing ‘Vicky’ Lin, Mia Qin, Patricia Sandoval Costume Shop Foreman Maria Fagundes Costume Shop Crew Sarina Hall, Mira Malone, Brooke McDaniel, Mahogany Smith-Christopher |
CONNECTIVITY TEAM
Marketing/Public Relations Michael G. French Branding, Web, and Development Tom Burmester Business and Community Outreach Danika Sudik, Anya Guzman Social Media Sophie Brubaker, Alyssa Buchthal Artist Ambassador Charlie Lavaroni Publicity Intern Noah VanderVeer-Harris Promotional Videographers: David Gregory, Alex Clubb Production Photographer Justin Han Marketing Associate Cortha McNair THEATRE AND DANCE ENSEMBLE CORE Tristan Atkinson, Sophie Brubaker, Alyssa Buchthal, Ben Carter, Talia Friedenberg, Anya Guzman, Katie Halls, Tiffany Nwogu, John Peciemer |
Special Thanks
Playwrights Janine DeMaria, Aidaa Peerzadaand Héloïse Thual, directors Lyndsay Burch and J.R. Yancher, Rachel Hartsough and Arts Alliance Davis, Bike City Theatre Company, Jennifer Wagelie and the staff ofJan Shrem and Maria Manetti Shrem Museum of Art, Upper Crust Baking Company, Nugget Markets, Karen Ostergard. Susie Owens, Michael G. French and the staff of the Department of Theatre and Dance, American River College Department of Theatre for their support with lighting and to our own Department of Music for everything from keyboards to music stand lights. Special thanks Josh Paterson, Phil Daley, Stephen Bingen and Catlin Sapunor-Davis! Alexander Clubb, Juan and Mia Valenzuela, Raquel Preciado, Tricia Goodner Wagner, Dawn Coder, Janet Elsea, Alison Flory, Bonnie Plummer, Adam Wright.
Playwrights Janine DeMaria, Aidaa Peerzadaand Héloïse Thual, directors Lyndsay Burch and J.R. Yancher, Rachel Hartsough and Arts Alliance Davis, Bike City Theatre Company, Jennifer Wagelie and the staff ofJan Shrem and Maria Manetti Shrem Museum of Art, Upper Crust Baking Company, Nugget Markets, Karen Ostergard. Susie Owens, Michael G. French and the staff of the Department of Theatre and Dance, American River College Department of Theatre for their support with lighting and to our own Department of Music for everything from keyboards to music stand lights. Special thanks Josh Paterson, Phil Daley, Stephen Bingen and Catlin Sapunor-Davis! Alexander Clubb, Juan and Mia Valenzuela, Raquel Preciado, Tricia Goodner Wagner, Dawn Coder, Janet Elsea, Alison Flory, Bonnie Plummer, Adam Wright.
About Ground & Field Theatre Festival
Our radical hospitality philosophy brings festival offerings to the public free of charge to ensure that your work has no barriers to being seen and enjoyed.
Each of this year’s pieces have been chosen for their contribution to narratives related to environmental, social, or economic sustainability. This theme can be found in the stories themselves and/or in the production aesthetics implied in the writing.
As an ensemble of collaborators, we employ a “No Shame, No Blame” motto while interrogating our sustainability practices. This means that while we know we will have blind spots, and will make mistakes, we will continue to playfully and gently explore ways to make our work more sustainable. We so appreciate your joining us in our commitment to creating a sustainable future for theatre.
Want to support the Festival?
Your cash and check contributions collected today will help The Theatre and Dance Department be able to continue this important work. If you like what you see, please consider donating! Our passion for theatre is deeper than our wallets! Checks to support the Department of Theatre and Dance can be made out to UC Regents.
If you’d like to purchase a ‘Pay-it-forward’ ticket or make a tax-deductible donation online, your donation with support the Theatre and Dance Ensemble’s continued efforts towards sustainable theatre. www.groundandfield.com
Theatre & Dance Ensemble is sponsored by YoloArts, a non-profit arts organization. Contributions for the charitable purposes of Theatre and Dance Ensemble are paid to YoloArts and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.
Want to learn/do more about issues raised during our shows? Visit:
STOMP Out Bullying™ is dedicated to changing the culture for all students. It works to reduce and prevent bullying, cyberbullying and other digital abuse, educates against homophobia, LGBTQ discrimination, racism and hatred, and deters violence in schools, online and in communities across the country.
https://www.stompoutbullying.org
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals
www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
Challenge Success, a 501(c)(3) that was founded by the Stanford Graduate School of Education. Challenge Success conducts research and partners with schools and families to help create environments where students can live more balanced lives.
www.challengesuccess.org
Earth Day Network’s mission is to diversify, educate and activate the environmental movement worldwide. Growing out of the first Earth Day, Earth Day Network is the world’s largest recruiter to the environmental movement, working with more than 75,000 partners in nearly 192 countries to build environmental democracy. More than 1 billion people now participate in Earth Day activities each year, making it the largest civic observance in the world. We work through a combination of education, public policy, and consumer campaigns.
https://www.earthday.org/take-action/
Broadway Green Alliance is a place to find resources and best practices for moving towards ‘greening’ theatre practices. Help make theatre sustainable.
www.broadwaygreen.com
Our radical hospitality philosophy brings festival offerings to the public free of charge to ensure that your work has no barriers to being seen and enjoyed.
Each of this year’s pieces have been chosen for their contribution to narratives related to environmental, social, or economic sustainability. This theme can be found in the stories themselves and/or in the production aesthetics implied in the writing.
As an ensemble of collaborators, we employ a “No Shame, No Blame” motto while interrogating our sustainability practices. This means that while we know we will have blind spots, and will make mistakes, we will continue to playfully and gently explore ways to make our work more sustainable. We so appreciate your joining us in our commitment to creating a sustainable future for theatre.
Want to support the Festival?
Your cash and check contributions collected today will help The Theatre and Dance Department be able to continue this important work. If you like what you see, please consider donating! Our passion for theatre is deeper than our wallets! Checks to support the Department of Theatre and Dance can be made out to UC Regents.
If you’d like to purchase a ‘Pay-it-forward’ ticket or make a tax-deductible donation online, your donation with support the Theatre and Dance Ensemble’s continued efforts towards sustainable theatre. www.groundandfield.com
Theatre & Dance Ensemble is sponsored by YoloArts, a non-profit arts organization. Contributions for the charitable purposes of Theatre and Dance Ensemble are paid to YoloArts and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.
Want to learn/do more about issues raised during our shows? Visit:
STOMP Out Bullying™ is dedicated to changing the culture for all students. It works to reduce and prevent bullying, cyberbullying and other digital abuse, educates against homophobia, LGBTQ discrimination, racism and hatred, and deters violence in schools, online and in communities across the country.
https://www.stompoutbullying.org
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals
www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
Challenge Success, a 501(c)(3) that was founded by the Stanford Graduate School of Education. Challenge Success conducts research and partners with schools and families to help create environments where students can live more balanced lives.
www.challengesuccess.org
Earth Day Network’s mission is to diversify, educate and activate the environmental movement worldwide. Growing out of the first Earth Day, Earth Day Network is the world’s largest recruiter to the environmental movement, working with more than 75,000 partners in nearly 192 countries to build environmental democracy. More than 1 billion people now participate in Earth Day activities each year, making it the largest civic observance in the world. We work through a combination of education, public policy, and consumer campaigns.
https://www.earthday.org/take-action/
Broadway Green Alliance is a place to find resources and best practices for moving towards ‘greening’ theatre practices. Help make theatre sustainable.
www.broadwaygreen.com
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Actors' Equity Association (“Equity"), founded in 1913, is the U.S. labor union that represents more than 51,000 professional Actors and Stage Managers. Equity fosters the art of live theatre as an essential component of society and advances the careers of its members by negotiating wages, improving working conditions and providing a wide range of benefits, including health and pension plans. Actors' Equity is a member of the AFL-CIO and is affiliated with FIA, an international organization of performing arts unions.
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