{"id":142918,"date":"2025-06-05T17:00:29","date_gmt":"2025-06-05T21:00:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.thevalleyledger.com\/?p=142918"},"modified":"2025-06-05T17:00:29","modified_gmt":"2025-06-05T21:00:29","slug":"pennsylvania-shakespeare-festival-opens-mel-brooks-hilarious-broadway-musical-the-producers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.thevalleyledger.com\/?p=142918","title":{"rendered":"Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival Opens Mel Brooks Hilarious Broadway Musical The Producers"},"content":{"rendered":"

Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival Opens Mel Brooks
\nHilarious Broadway Hit\u00a0The Producers<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

CENTER VALLEY, PA \u2014June 3, 2025<\/strong>\u00a0\u2014Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival proudly presents\u00a0The Producers<\/em>, the uproarious, Tony Award-winning musical comedy that took Broadway by storm. Based on Mel Brooks\u2019 Oscar-winning 1967 film, this side-splitting satire hits the Main Stage at the Labuda Center for the Performing Arts at DeSales University, delivering nonstop laughs, show-stopping dance numbers, and an outrageously entertaining story. Previews are June 11 and 12, with Opening Night on June 13; running through June 29.<\/p>\n

A record-breaking Broadway smash,\u00a0The Producers<\/em>\u00a0holds the distinction of winning the most Tony Awards ever for a single production\u2014including Best Musical. With a riotous score by Mel Brooks, this cult-classic musical comedy follows down-on-his-luck producer Max Bialystock (Scott Greer) and timid accountant Leo Bloom (Michael Doherty) as they scheme to produce the worst show ever and pocket the profits. But when their outrageous plan backfires and their disaster becomes a surprise hit, chaos\u2014and comedy\u2014ensues.<\/p>\n

Scott Greer (Max Bialystock), a six-time Barrymore Award winner\u2014including the prestigious F. Otto Haas Award\u2014returns to PSF following last season\u2019s\u00a0The Merry Wives of Windsor<\/em>\u00a0and\u00a0The Play That Goes Wrong<\/em>. A 32-year stage veteran, Greer has performed with nearly every major Philadelphia company, including the Arden, Walnut Street Theatre, People\u2019s Light, and the Wilma.<\/p>\n

Barrymore Award winner Michael Doherty (Leo Bloom) has appeared in over 70 regional theatre productions across the country. Doherty\u2019s credits span the Guthrie Theater, Berkeley Repertory (Theatre Bay Area Award), and Off-Broadway\u2019s 59E59, alongside Philadelphia appearances at the Wilma and Arden, among many others.<\/p>\n

Helming the production is director\u00a0Jennifer Childs, who directed last season\u2019s hit\u00a0The Play That Goes Wrong<\/em>. Select regional credits include\u00a0POTUS<\/em>\u00a0(Arden Theatre) and\u00a0Noises Off<\/em>\u00a0(Delaware Theatre Company). As Producing Artistic Director of 1812 Productions, Philadelphia\u2019s all-comedy theatre, she has created over 25 original works.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m thrilled to have Scott Greer and Michael Doherty leading this production\u2014they\u2019re extraordinary actors and clowns, with a knack for vintage comedy. Alongside the incredible Anthony Lawton, and our powerhouse ensemble, they bring this riotous show to life with hilarious cameos, ebullient songs, and ferocious tap numbers,\u201d said Childs.<\/p>\n

Lawton, alongside Greer in last season\u2019s\u00a0The Play that Goes Wrong<\/em>, will continue his comedic streak as the wildly unhinged playwright Franz Liebkind. A Philadelphia theatre staple for over three decades, and recent Barrymore winner for\u00a0Faith Healer\u00a0<\/em>(2024), he has captivated audiences in roles from\u00a0Of Mice and Men<\/em>\u00a0to\u00a0Romeo and Juliet<\/em>. A gifted playwright, his works\u00a0The Foocy<\/em>\u00a0and\u00a0The Light Princess<\/em>\u00a0have earned multiple Barrymore nominations.<\/p>\n

Joining Greer, Doherty, and Lawton are Broadway veterans Nicole Benoit as the dazzling Swedish Ulla, Robi Hager as the flamboyant Carmen Ghia, and Jamison Stern as the over-the-top director Roger DeBris.<\/p>\n

Nicole Benoit reprises her role as Ulla\u2014a part she\u2019s mastered in multiple productions. A true triple threat, she has dazzled audiences from Broadway to international stages with iconic turns as Roxie Hart in\u00a0Chicago<\/em>, Sally Bowles in\u00a0Cabaret<\/em>, and, of course, Ulla in\u00a0The Producers<\/em>.<\/p>\n

Robi Hager (Carmen Ghia) brings Broadway pedigree from\u00a0Spring Awakening<\/em>,\u00a0Bye Bye Birdie<\/em>, and\u00a0How to Succeed\u2026<\/em>, alongside regional acclaim in\u00a0Fun Home<\/em>,\u00a0Assassins,\u00a0<\/em>and many others. Offstage, he\u2019s an accomplished composer, with original musicals like\u00a0Little Duende<\/em>\u00a0(O\u2019Neill Center) and\u00a0Siluetas<\/em>\u00a0(world premiere Power Street Theatre).<\/p>\n

Jamison Stern (Roger DeBris) currently stars as Paul in\u00a0After Forever<\/em>\u2014the Amazon Prime series winner of six Daytime Emmys, including Best Digital Drama. Stern boasts impressive Broadway and National Tour credits, including\u00a0Little Shop of Horrors<\/em>\u00a0and\u00a0Beauty and the Beast<\/em>. Regionally, he\u2019s shined in\u00a0Torch Song<\/em>,\u00a0La Cage Aux Folles<\/em>,\u00a0Young Frankenstein<\/em>, and many others.<\/p>\n

Choreographer Tara Jeanne Vallee\u00a0brings Broadway flair (Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy<\/em>) to\u00a0The Producers<\/em>\u2019 show-stopping numbers. Her credits span\u00a0Off-Broadway, National Tours, prestigious regional theatres, and the Grand Ole Opry stage, along with work for Disney, Cedar Fair Entertainment, and Virgin Voyages.<\/p>\n

Chris Burcheri (Music Director) leads the cast in the vibrant score, fresh off Rodgers + Hammerstein\u2019s\u00a0Cinderella<\/em>\u00a0at Music Circus and acclaimed productions like\u00a0Jersey Boys<\/em>,\u00a0Dreamgirls<\/em>,\u00a0Kinky Boots<\/em>, and Disney\u2019s\u00a0Beauty and the Beast<\/em>.<\/p>\n

The creative team transporting audiences to 1950s Broadway includes\u00a0David P. Gordon\u00a0(Scenic Designer),\u00a0Rebecca R. Callan\u00a0(Costume Coordinator),\u00a0Mike Inwood\u00a0(Lighting Designer), Damien Figueras\u00a0(Sound Designer), and Andrea D\u2019Andria (Puppet Designer). Rounding out the team are Kim Carson (Intimacy Director), Thomas E. Shotkin (Production Stage Manager), and Abigail Sturgis (Assistant Stage Manager).<\/p>\n

Tickets can be purchased online at PAShakespeare.org, or by calling the box office at 610.282.WILL [9455], or in person at the Labuda Center for the Performing Arts on the campus of DeSales University, in Center Valley, PA. Discounts are available for military, seniors, students, and\u00a0groups of 10+.<\/p>\n

PSF invites patrons to enrich their theatre experience with a variety of engaging opportunities. Celebrate with the artists at the Opening Night Champagne Reception on June 13, or dive deeper into the production during post-show talkbacks with cast members following Thursday performances on June 19 and 26. Enjoy a specialty dinner and conversation with the director on Wednesday, June 25, at 5pm (reservations required). For a behind-the-scenes look, join us for a special Epilogue and backstage tour on Saturday, June 21, at 10am. Adding to the ambiance, patrons can relax to live music \u201cOn the Green\u201d before each performance. In its ongoing commitment to accessibility, PSF will also offer an open-captioned and audio-described performance on Saturday, June 21, at 2pm.<\/p>\n

The Production Sponsors for\u00a0The Producers<\/em>\u00a0are Lee & Dolly Butz and Alvin H. Butz Construction Manager. The Co-sponsors are Air Products, Diefenderfer Electrical Contractors, and Fitzpatrick, Lentz, and Bubba Attorneys at Law. The Orchestra Co-sponsors are
\nKlunk & Millan Advertising and Uline.<\/p>\n

The Festival\u2019s 2025 Season Sponsors are Marilyn McDonald, MD and Joe Folger. The Associate Season Sponsors are Mary Bongiorno, Linda Lapos and Paul Wirth, Kathleen Kund Nolan and Timothy E. Nolan, Yvonne Payne and Edward Spitzer, The Szarko Family, and Harry C. Trexler Trust.<\/p>\n

Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival is the Lehigh Valley’s professional equity theater hosted on the campus of DeSales University.<\/em><\/p>\n

Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival, the official Shakespeare Festival of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, features acclaimed actors from Broadway, television, and film, and is the summer home to over 200 artists from around the country, including winners and nominees of the Tony, Obie, Emmy, Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle, Jefferson, and Barrymore Awards<\/em>.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

The 2025 Summer Theatre Series\u2014<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cPlay On!\u201d Community Tour<\/a>\u00a0– William Shakespeare\u2019s\u00a0Much Ado About Nothing<\/em><\/p>\n

May 30 to June 15 | Directed by Jason King Jones<\/p>\n

Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival\u2019s \u201cPlay On!\u201d Community Tour brings free performances of William Shakespeare\u2019s\u00a0Much Ado About Nothing<\/em>\u00a0to libraries, parks, and community centers all over the region.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

On the Main Stage:<\/p>\n

The Producers<\/em><\/a>\u00a0–\u00a0<\/em>June 11 to June 29\u00a0\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Music and Lyrics by Mel Brooks. Book by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan.<\/em><\/p>\n

Directed by Jennifer Childs<\/em><\/p>\n

Choreographed by Tara Jeanne Vallee<\/em><\/p>\n

Adapted from Brooks\u2019 1967 film, this laugh-a-minute romp features larger-than-life characters, wickedly funny double entendres, and splashy show-stopping musical numbers. With a truly hysterical book co-written by Brooks and Thomas Meehan,\u00a0The Producers<\/em>\u00a0proudly proclaims itself an \u201cequal opportunity offender,\u201d skewering Broadway traditions with enough chutzpah to fill Times Square!<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Hamlet<\/em><\/a>\u00a0– July 9 to August 3<\/p>\n

By William Shakespeare<\/em><\/p>\n

Directed by Lindsay Smiling<\/em><\/p>\n

Shakespeare\u2019s masterpiece delves into the depths of human thought, revealing the darkness that lies beneath loyalty, love, and justice. Experience the pulse-pounding tension and psychological intrigue that have made this play endure for centuries.\u00a0Hamlet<\/em>\u00a0will play in repertory with\u00a0Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead<\/em>.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead<\/em><\/a>\u00a0– July 17 to August 2<\/p>\n

By Tom Stoppard<\/em><\/p>\n

Directed by Jason King Jones<\/em><\/p>\n

Lost in a Shakespearean drama they barely understand, two glorified extras from\u00a0Hamlet<\/em>\u00a0stumble into the spotlight. Watch as our hapless heroes flip coins (which mysteriously keep landing heads), ponder the meaning of life (spoiler: they don\u2019t figure it out), and wonder if they\u2019re actually the main characters in someone else\u2019s tragedy. Occasionally, the \u201creal\u201d play crashes their existential party, sending them into a panic of \u201cWait, which one am I again?\u201d\u00a0Hamlet<\/em>\u00a0and\u00a0Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead\u00a0<\/em>will play in rotating repertory.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the Schubert Theatre:<\/p>\n

Penelope<\/em><\/a>\u00a0–\u00a0<\/em>May 28 to June 8<\/p>\n

Music and Lyrics by Alex Bechtel.
\nBook by Alex Bechtel, Grace McLean, and Eva Steinmetz.
\n<\/em> Based on writings in\u00a0The Odyssey<\/em>\u00a0by Homer<\/p>\n

Directed by Eva Steinmetz<\/em><\/p>\n

A Co-production with Theatre Horizon<\/p>\n

This witty musical flips the script on the dutiful wife history wants you to believe in\u2014Penelope\u2019s done being a footnote in her husband\u2019s epic; this time, she\u2019s writing her own odyssey. With soulful songs, razor-sharp storytelling, and an onstage band doubling as her modern-day Greek chorus, Penelope transforms the tale you thought you knew into a solo cabaret act like no other.<\/p>\n

A Raisin in the Sun<\/em><\/a>\u00a0–\u00a0<\/em>June 25 to July 13
\nBy Lorraine Hansberry<\/em><\/p>\n

Directed by Akeem Davis<\/em><\/p>\n

The members of the Younger family dream bigger than the cramped apartment where they live on the south side of Chicago. When a life-changing insurance check arrives, three generations are suddenly given the chance to turn their hopes into reality. As they navigate the complex landscape of 1950s America, the Younger family discovers that unity, resilience, and love can overcome even the toughest challenges in their pursuit of a better life.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Timon of Athens<\/em><\/a>\u00a0–\u00a0<\/em>\u201cExtreme Shakespeare\u201d
\nJuly 23 to August 3
\nBy William Shakespeare<\/em><\/p>\n

Timon of Athens, once the life of every party and generous benefactor, finds himself abandoned when his fortune runs dry. Betrayed by those he trusted most, his legendary generosity turns to seething rage, transforming him from Athens\u2019 favorite host to its most dangerous outcast. Performed \u201cExtreme Shakespeare\u201d style\u2014actors arrive with lines learned, rehearse on their own, and open within days. No directors. No designers. Just pure adrenaline and raw talent unleashed on Shakespeare\u2019s blistering commentary on wealth and loyalty.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Children\u2019s Theatre Productions:<\/p>\n

The Princess and The Frog Prince<\/em><\/a>\u00a0| July 4 to August 2 | Schubert Theatre<\/p>\n

By Jason King Jones | Based on the Grimms\u2019 Fairy Tale | Directed by Jessica Bedford
\n<\/em> This fresh spin on the classic tale follows a basketball-loving princess who\u2019d rather shoot hoops than wait for Prince Charming. But when her ball rolls into a well, she meets an unlikely hero\u2014a talking frog under a magical spell. As friendship sparks, the duo proves that sometimes your perfect match is the teammate you least expect.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Shakespeare for Kids<\/em>\u00a0(S4K<\/em>)<\/a>\u00a0presents\u00a0Hamlet<\/em>\u00a0| July 23 to August 2 | Main Stage<\/p>\n

By Erin Sheffield | Directed by Matt Pfeiffer<\/p>\n

A high energy one-hour production, S4K activates imaginations and generates laughs for the entire family. Using a combination of songs, puppets, and scenes from William Shakespeare\u2019s Hamlet, S4K provides families with the opportunity to introduce children to Shakespeare in a welcoming, super kid-friendly environment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Festival will host its annual\u00a0Community Day<\/strong>\u00a0event on\u00a0Saturday, June 28<\/strong>,\u00a02025<\/strong>. The event will take place on the mall and in front of the Labuda Center for the Performing Arts at DeSales University.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Artistic Leadership:<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

JASON KING JONES<\/strong>\u00a0(Artistic Director) is excited to embark on his third year with PSF. In his first two seasons, Jason expanded the organization\u2019s footprint to include the \u201cPlay On!\u201d Community Tour, the launch of\u00a0Shakespeare 4 Kids\u00a0<\/em>to libraries, and Community Day. Prior to moving to the Lehigh Valley with his family, Jason spent ten years at Maryland\u2019s Olney Theatre Center, where he served as Senior Associate Artistic Director and Artistic Director of National Players. In the past twenty-six years Jason has directed over seventy-five productions, mentored hundreds of early-career theatre makers, and established various in-school and summer educational programs. He is an Acting Company alumnus, a proud member of the PSF Board, the Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce\u2019s Nonprofit & Business Partners Council, and the Shakespeare Theatre Association\u2019s Executive Committee. Jason holds a BFA in Theatre Performance from Missouri State and an MFA in Directing from Boston University.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

CASEY WILLIAM GALLAGHER<\/strong>\u00a0(Managing Director) has worked at PSF for 26 seasons. Over the years he was a box office intern, a stage management intern, the assistant house manager, box office manager, company manager, assistant producer, director of development and worked directly with PSF Founder Jerry Schubert in the early years of the organization. Since 2004, in his role as general manager and later managing director, he served as the administrative leader of the Festival, working very closely with former Producing Artistic Director Patrick Mulcahy and the box office, business, development, marketing and production departments. Since 2023, Casey is co-leader of the Festival with Artistic Director Jason King Jones. Beyond PSF, Casey was treasurer for the Shakespeare Theatre Association, director of audience services for The People\u2019s Light & Theatre Company, a board member for Civic Theatre of Allentown, a peer panelist for the New Jersey Council on the Arts and a judge for the Greater Philadelphia Barrymore Awards for excellence in theatre.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Artists and Creative Team:<\/strong><\/p>\n

NICOLE BENOIT<\/strong>\u00a0(Ulla) Broadway & International:\u00a0Chicago<\/em>\u00a0(13 years, 4 countries, 7 roles including Roxie),\u00a0My Fair Lady<\/em>. Other favorite stage credits:\u00a0Cabaret<\/em>\u00a0(Sally),\u00a0Legally Blonde\u00a0<\/em>(Brooke Wyndham), Carnegie Hall, Paper Mill Playhouse, Riverside Theatre, Bristol Riverside Theatre.<\/p>\n

MICHAEL DOHERTY\u00a0<\/strong>(Leo Bloom)\u00a0 has appeared in over 70 regional theatre productions across the country. Philly: Wilma Theater, Arden Theatre, People\u2019s Light, Bristol Riverside Theater, Theatre Horizon (Barrymore Award), 1812 Productions, DE Theater Company, Theatre Exile. Off-B\u2019way\/Regional: 59E59, Guthrie Theater, Berkeley Repertory Theatre (Theater Bay Area Award), UT Shakespeare Festival, AL Shakespeare Festival, Milwaukee Repertory Theatre, Denver Center, Cleveland Play House, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, CT Repertory Theatre, Gulfshore Playhouse. TV:\u00a0Wu Tang: An American Saga<\/em>\u00a0(Hulu),\u00a0Take My Muffin<\/em>\u00a0(Toonbox Studios). His new play,\u00a0Dogberry and Verges Are Scared<\/em>, will have a rolling world premiere beginning this fall in the Philly Fringe.<\/p>\n

SCOTT GREER (<\/strong>Max Bialystock) Scott is thrilled to be back at the PSF, where he last appeared in\u00a0Merry Wives\u00a0<\/em>and\u00a0The Play That Goes Wrong<\/em>. He is a 32 year veteran of Philadelphia theatre and has worked for Arden, Walnut, 1812, Exile, InterAct, Wilma, Peoples Light, DE Theatre Company, Act II Playhouse and many more. Regionally, he has worked for Actors Theatre of Louisville, Round House, and the Pearl Theatre in New York. He has won six Barrymore Awards for Excellence in Theatre, including the F. Otto Haas Award for an Emerging Theatre Artist. He was named \u201cBest Theatre Talent\u201d by Philadelphia Magazine.<\/p>\n

ROBI HAGER\u00a0<\/strong>(Carmen Ghia) Broadway:\u00a0Spring Awakening<\/em>,\u00a0How to Succeed\u2026<\/em>,\u00a0Bye Bye Birdie<\/em>\u00a0and\u00a0Doctor Zhivago<\/em>. Tour and Regional:\u00a0Spring Awakening<\/em>,\u00a0Fun Home<\/em>,\u00a0Jonathan in tick, tick\u2026Boom!<\/em>,\u00a0Assassins<\/em>, and others. As a composer, his musical\u00a0Little Duende<\/em>\u00a0was accepted at the O\u2019Neill Center for their \u201821 NMTC, \u201821 NAMT festival, Rhinebeck Writer\u2019s Retreat, and Lortel 121 project. His other musical\u00a0Siluetas<\/em>\u00a0was also accepted the following year at O\u2019Neill Center\u2019s 2022 NMTC and received a world premiere production with Power Street Theatre in Philadelphia June \u201824.<\/p>\n

ANTHONY LAWTON<\/strong>\u00a0(Franz Liebkind) Anthony Lawton has acted in Philadelphia for thirty-three years. Favorite roles include George in\u00a0Of Mice and Men\u00a0<\/em>(Walnut); Coleman in\u00a0The Lonesome West<\/em>\u00a0(Lantern); and Friar Laurence in\u00a0Romeo and Juliet\u00a0<\/em>(Arden). In 2005, Lawton wrote\u00a0The Foocy<\/em>.\u00a0 Lantern\u2019s production of this play garnered 5 Barrymore nominations (including Best New Play).\u00a0His Light Princess\u00a0<\/em>earned 8 nominations, also including Best New Play. Barrymore for Best Supporting Actor,\u00a0Faith Healer<\/em>, 2024. He also performs solo productions of\u00a0The Devil and Billy Markham<\/em>,\u00a0The Great Divorce\u00a0<\/em>and\u00a0The Screwtape Letters<\/em>.<\/p>\n

JAMISON STERN<\/strong>\u00a0(Roger DeBris) currently stars as Paul in\u00a0After Forever<\/em>\u00a0on Amazon Prime, (Winner 6 Daytime Emmys including Best Digital Drama). Broadway and National Tours:\u00a0By Jeeves<\/em>\u00a0(Bingo),\u00a0How the Grinch Stole Christmas<\/em>\u00a0(Palm Springs),\u00a0Little Shop of Horrors<\/em>\u00a0(Seymour\/Orin), and Disney\u2019s\u00a0Beauty and the Beast<\/em>\u00a0(Lumiere). Regional Theatre:\u00a0Torch Song<\/em>\u00a0(Arnold-1812 Productions),\u00a0Into the Woods<\/em>\u00a0(Baker, NC Theatre),\u00a0Fully Committed<\/em>\u00a0(Sam- Hartford Theaterworks),\u00a0The Legend of Georgia McBride<\/em>\u00a0(Tracy Mills, Playmakers Rep and Hartford Theatreworks),\u00a0La Cage Aux Folles<\/em>\u00a0(Albin,Goodspeed Musicals and Pioneer Theatre),\u00a0Parade<\/em>\u00a0(Hugh Dorsey, The Rev Theatre),\u00a0Young Frankenstein<\/em>\u00a0(Frederic Frankenstein-Fulton Theatre),\u00a0[title of show]<\/em>\u00a0(Hunter- Theatreworks Palo Alto),\u00a0She Loves Me<\/em>\u00a0(Kodaly, Rubicon Theatre)\u00a0Black Comedy<\/em>,\u00a0Invention of Love<\/em>,\u00a0As Bees in Honey Drown<\/em>, (Alley Theatre). Film & TV:\u00a0Annabelle Hooper and the Ghosts of Nantucket<\/em>,\u00a0My Bakery in Brooklyn<\/em>,\u00a0Day Zero<\/em>,\u00a0Hightown<\/em>,\u00a0Law & Order<\/em>,\u00a0The Entrepreneurs<\/em>.<\/p>\n

CHRIS BURCHERI\u00a0<\/strong>(Music Director)\u00a0 iRecent productions include\u00a0Dreamgirls; Elf; Jersey Boys; Beautiful The Carole King Musical;\u00a0<\/em>and\u00a0Disney\u2019s Beauty and the Beast.<\/em>\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>Also recently on Broadway at Music Circus (Rodgers+Hammerstein\u2019s\u00a0Cinderella<\/em>), Bucks County Playhouse (Kinky Boots<\/em>), Villanova University, Rutgers\u2014Camden, and Arcadia University. University of PA graduate.<\/p>\n

REBECCA R CALLAN<\/strong>\u00a0(Costume Coordinator) PSF:\u00a0The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) [revised] [again]<\/em>\u00a0(Costume Designer),\u00a0Little Red<\/em>\u00a0(Assistant Costume Designer),\u00a0An Iliad<\/em>\u00a0(Costume Coordinator), Costume Shop Manager (2021-2024) DeSales:\u00a0The Servant of Two Masters<\/em>\u00a0(Costume Designer),\u00a0Side By Side By Sondheim<\/em>\u00a0(Costume Designer),\u00a0Spoon River Anthology<\/em>\u00a0(Costume Designer),\u00a0Trojan Women<\/em>\u00a0(Costume Designer) College of Wooster:\u00a0The Tempest<\/em>\u00a0(Costume Designer),\u00a0Eurydice<\/em>\u00a0(Costume Designer),\u00a0Normal Heart<\/em>\u00a0(Costume Designer),\u00a0Medea<\/em>\u00a0(Costume Designer) University of Houston:\u00a0Intimate Apparel\u00a0<\/em>(Costume Designer),\u00a0Bus Stop\u00a0<\/em>(Costume Designer),\u00a0Julius Caesar<\/em>\u00a0(Costume Designer) Cedar Crest College: Costume Designer for 30+ productions. Rebecca has an MFA from the University of Houston.<\/p>\n

JENNIFER CHILDS\u00a0<\/strong>(Director) PSF:\u00a0The Play That Goes Wrong<\/em>\u00a0(Director). Regional:\u00a0POTUS<\/em>\u00a0and\u00a0What the Constitution Means to Me<\/em>\u00a0(Arden Theatre Company),\u00a0Noises Off\u00a0<\/em>(DE Theatre Company),\u00a0Last of the Red Hot Lovers<\/em>\u00a0(Walnut Street Theatre). Jen is the Producing Artistic Director of 1812 Productions: Philadelphia\u2019s All Comedy Theatre Company for which she has created over 25 original works of theater including the annual political humor show\u00a0This is the Week That Is<\/em>. Her solo shows\u00a0I Will Not Go Gently\u00a0<\/em>and\u00a0Why I\u2019m Scared of Dance<\/em>\u00a0have been performed across the country including City Theatre in Pittsburgh, People\u2019s Light, the Kohler Performing Arts Center in Wisconsin and Theatre B in Fargo among others.<\/p>\n

ANGEL D\u2019ANDRIA\u00a0<\/strong>(Puppet Designer\/Fabricator) is so excited to be joining PSF\u2019s team this summer. She has previously designed puppets for Parkland High School\u2019s\u00a0Finding Nemo Jr.\u00a0<\/em>(Nemo, Marlin, Dory, and Sharks), Eyer Middle School\u2019s\u00a0Frozen Jr.\u00a0<\/em>(Sven and Olaf), and Civic Theater\u2019s\u00a0Beetlejuice Jr.\u00a0<\/em>(Sandworm and Roasted Pig), as well as performed as the puppeteer for Milky White, which she fabricated for Munopco Music Theater\u2019s\u00a0Into the Woods.<\/em>\u00a0She is a recent graduate of Cedar Crest College with a focus in theatrical sculpture and puppetry.<\/p>\n

DAMIEN FIGUERAS<\/strong>\u00a0(Sound Designer) is a 7-time Barrymore nominated designer. Recent credits include:\u00a0Party Face\u00a0<\/em>(Off-Broadway, NY City Center),\u00a0Intimate Apparel<\/em>\u00a0(Arden Theatre Company),\u00a0Beehive\u00a0<\/em>(Walnut Street Theatre),\u00a0Peter and the Starcatcher\u00a0<\/em>(DE Theatre Company),\u00a0Lovesong\u00a0<\/em>(Inis Nua Theatre),\u00a0The Play That Goes Wrong\u00a0<\/em>(1812 Productions),\u00a0a hit dog will holler\u00a0<\/em>(Azuka Theatre),\u00a0Kiss\u00a0<\/em>(Wilma Theater),\u00a0Tick Tick Boom\u00a0<\/em>(Theatre Horizon),\u00a0Rose: You Are Who You Eat<\/em>\u00a0(Bearded Ladies Cabaret). In addition to his design work, Damien is the Production Manager for Wolf Performing Arts Center and is a founding member of Apartment 20 Theatre.<\/p>\n

DAVID P. GORDON<\/strong>\u00a0(Scenic Designer) PSF:\u00a0Oklahoma!, The Taming of the Shrew, Blithe Spirit<\/em>. David has worked extensively on and Off-Broadway and has designed over 300 productions for theatres and opera companies in the US and abroad. New York: Public Theater, TFANA, CSC, EST, Women\u2019s Project, Pearl. Regional: Arden, Wilma, Walnut St., PTC, PLTC, Hartford Stage, Old Globe, Long Wharf, Williamstown, Goodspeed, Huntington, McCarter, Westport, Chicago Shakespeare, Kennedy Center. Opera: NYC Opera, L.A. Opera, Lincoln Center, Juilliard, Seattle Opera, FL Grand Opera, Des Moines Metro Opera, Opera Theatre of St. Louis, Berkshire Opera, Nashville Opera, Sarasota Opera. Awards: Six Barrymore Awards, Elliot Norton Award, and CT Critics Circle, Carbonell and IRNE nominations. Chair, Dept. of Theater at Mason Gross School of the Arts, Rutgers University. Website:\u00a0davidpgordondesign.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

MIKE INWOOD\u00a0<\/strong>(Lighting Designer) is an Emmy Award-winning artist working across many different genres of lighting design. In Philadelphia, Mike\u2019s work has been seen at The Arden, PTC, People\u2019s Light, Theatre Horizon, The Lantern, 1812 and Opera Philadelphia. Mike also works as a part of the Bearded Ladies Cabaret, most recently designing the lighting for their\u00a0Late Night Snacks<\/em>\u00a0festival. In New York, Mike\u2019s designs have been seen on stage at Playwrights Horizons, Ars Nova, Signature Theatre, Second Stage and BAM.<\/p>\n

IAN ROSE\u00a0<\/strong>(Fight Director) has choreographed fights for commercials, film, and stage for over thirty years. Ian\u2019s theater credits include Broadways\u2019 Booth Theater (Les Liaisons Dangereuses\u00a0<\/em>with Liev Schrieber and Janet McTeer), the Bridewell Theatre in London, MTM Studios in Rome, Riverside Shakespeare and Interborough Repertory Theatre in New York City, the Whole Theatre in New Jersey, and Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival. He is a frequent choreographer in Philadelphia with numerous credits at The Arden, Quintessence Theatre Group and the Wilma, including the Pulitzer Prize winning original production of James Ijames\u00a0Fat Ham<\/em>. His film work includes the documentary\u00a0Philadelphia: The Great Experiment\u2013Disorder\u00a0<\/em>and\u00a0A Winter\u2019s Tale<\/em>. Ian is delighted to return to Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival and is enormously thankful to Lindsay Smiling for his confidence.<\/p>\n

THOMAS E. SHOTKIN<\/strong>\u00a0(Stage Manager) PSF: The\u00a0Play That Goes Wrong<\/em>. 1812 Productions:\u00a0The Play That Goes Wrong, This Is the Week That Is, Our Show Of Shows, To The Moon, The Four of Us, Bat Boy: The Musical<\/em>, and many more. Arden Theatre Company:\u00a0POTUS, Assassins, Our Town, The Syringa Tree<\/em>.\u00a0 Montgomery Theater:\u00a0The 39 Steps<\/em>. People\u2019s Light:\u00a0\u00a0Sense & Sensibility, I Will Not Go Gently, Row By Row, End Days<\/em>. Theatre Exile:\u00a0The Lieutenant of Inishmore<\/em>. Arena Stage:\u00a0\u00a0Elephant Room<\/em>.<\/p>\n

ABIGAIL STURGIS<\/strong>\u00a0(Assistant Stage Manager) Select stage management credits: Walnut Street Theatre:\u00a0Hay Fever<\/em>,\u00a0Driving Miss Daisy<\/em>, Jersey Boys<\/em>;\u00a0Groucho: A Life in Revue<\/em>; Disney\u2019s\u00a0Beauty and the Beast<\/em>;\u00a0Moana, Jr.<\/em>; Media Theatre:\u00a0Rent<\/em>; Quintessence Theatre Group:\u00a0Flyin’ West<\/em>;\u00a0The Skin of Our Teeth<\/em>; Opera Philadelphia:\u00a010 Days in a Madhouse<\/em>; Act II Playhouse:\u00a0A Couple of Swells<\/em>;\u00a0Really Good Tidings<\/em>. Proud graduate of Temple University.<\/p>\n

TARA JEANNE VALLEE\u00a0<\/strong>(Choreographer) She has created for the Broadway stage in\u00a0Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy<\/em>, as well as shows Off Broadway, aboard cruise ships, on television, National Tours, prestigious regional theatres and on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry. As Director\/Choreographer (select credits):\u00a0Beautiful<\/em>,\u00a0The Little Mermaid, Triumph of Love, Mary Poppins, Elf, Annie, Bring it On, Kinky Boots, The Producers, Pippin, Cabaret,\u00a0<\/em>\u00a0On the Town, Joseph…Dreamcoat, They\u2019re Playing our Song,\u00a0<\/em>and\u00a0School of Rock.<\/em>\u00a0Tara Jeanne has also creatively developed and directed shows for Cedar Fair Entertainment, Virgin Voyages, and is on staff as a Choreographer for Walt Disney World Live Entertainment. In the DC area, she has garnered 4 Helen Hayes Award nominations for Outstanding Choreography.<\/p>\n

KIM CARSON\u00a0<\/strong>(Intimacy Director) She also currently serves as Theatre Director at Dieruff High School. Before joining PSF, Kim served in the Allentown School District, Saucon Valley School District, LV Charter High School for the Arts, and for the last 20 years, has worked as a professional actor, director, playwright, and photographer. Credits include 59 E 59, Walnut Street Theatre, Arden Theatre Co, Fulton Theatre, Peoples Light, John W. Engeman Theatre, Delaware Theatre, Philadelphia Theatre Co, Theatre Exile, and many more. Kim has received two Barrymore Awards for Excellence in Theatre in Philadelphia.<\/p>\n

Information provided to TVL by:
\nTina Louise Slak<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival Opens Mel Brooks Hilarious Broadway Hit\u00a0The Producers CENTER VALLEY, PA \u2014June 3, 2025\u00a0\u2014Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival proudly presents\u00a0The Producers, the uproarious, Tony Award-winning musical comedy that took Broadway … Continue reading Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival Opens Mel Brooks Hilarious Broadway Musical The Producers<\/span> →<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":142693,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[69],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-142918","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-in-the-valley"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"acf":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.thevalleyledger.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/sts-sf.jpg","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.thevalleyledger.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/142918"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.thevalleyledger.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.thevalleyledger.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.thevalleyledger.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.thevalleyledger.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=142918"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.thevalleyledger.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/142918\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.thevalleyledger.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/142693"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.thevalleyledger.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=142918"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.thevalleyledger.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=142918"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.thevalleyledger.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=142918"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}