RODGERS & HART’S MUSIC BY RICHARD RODGERS BOOK BY RODGERS & HART ADAPTED BY JOHN GUARE LYRICS BY LORENZ HART BABES IN ARMS is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals www.ConcordTheatricals.com SILVER SPOTLIGHT THEATRE, A BRANCH OF MUSICAL THEATRE PRODUCTIONS, PRESENTS Funded by the Government of Ontario
PRODUCER KELLY HOLBROUGH DIRECTORS RICK SMITH AND ART FIDLER MUSIC DIRECTOR/ACCOMPANIST JANIS WALLACE CHOREOGRAPHER TERI MAY SET DESIGNER RICK SMITH STAGE MANAGER CANDY ROBINSON PRODUCTION MANAGER TOM SMYTH Babes in Arms is presented with the permission of Concord Theatricals. www.concordtheatricals.com The show is approximately two hours in length with a 15-minute intermission. No photography or recording is permitted during the performance. Concessions are available in the lobby. LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT STATEMENT We would like to acknowledge that this presentation is being delivered from London Ontario, which is situated on the traditional territories of the Original Peoples of Turtle Island including the Anishinaabek, Haudenosaunee, Lūnaapéewak and Chonnonton Peoples. We pay respect to the land and to Elders past, present and future. We, as settlers on these lands, acknowledge and give respect to all Indigenous Nations, coast to coast, who have been telling stories here long before us. We recognize the ancestral and unceded territories that continue to be home to many diverse First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples and we value the significant historic and contemporary contributions of local and regional First Nations communities. We encourage each of you to learn more about the ancestral lands and histories of the First Nations Peoples where you live and work. SILVER SPOTLIGHT THEATRE, A BRANCH OF MUSICAL THEATRE PRODUCTIONS, PRESENTS RODGERS & HART’S
GRANDTHEATRE.com 2023/24 season to be announced March 28! grandtheatre for more information and to view the playbill, visit or call 519.672.8800 SEASON SPONSOR CLUE Based on the screenplay by Jonathan Lynn Written by Sandy Rustin Additional material by Hunter Foster and Eric Price Based on the Paramount Pictures Motion Picture Based on the Hasbro board game CLUE Original music by Michael Holland Are you ready for a GRAND new season? Us, too . . . Here’s your first GRANDTHEATRE.com 2023/24 season to be announced March 28! grandtheatre for more information and to view the playbill, visit or call 519.672.8800 SEASON SPONSOR CLUE Based on the screenplay by Jonathan Lynn Written by Sandy Rustin Additional material by Hunter Foster and Eric Price Based on the Paramount Pictures Motion Picture Based on the Hasbro board game CLUE Original music by Michael Holland Are you ready for a GRAND new season? Us, too . . . H re’s your first
ORIGINS OF SILVER SPOTLIGHT THEATRE The idea for a senior theatre company hit Art Fidler before the pandemic hit him too. His plan to rewrite Gilbert and Sullivan’s Trial By Jury for today, and for seniors, producing it in the main courtroom in our own Middlesex County Courthouse during the London Fringe Festival, died the death along with the London Fringe. Licking his wounds, he retreated to his computer to fool around in isolation with some scripts of Broadway musicals from the 20s, 30s and 40s that were hits in their day but are now mostly forgotten even though filled with wonderful songs. He was having fun reading and listening to Rodgers and Hart’s Babes in Arms, when he was distracted by another thought: “Why not approach London’s Music Theatre Productions to take the idea under its broad wing, using its non-profit charitable status to help us get a starting grant?” Shazam! ! The Board Chair at that point was Rick Smith and Rick bought in immediately. They found Kathy Smith, London’s authority on London Seniors programs and government grants for start-ups. And so, the two lads and their mentor were off, with Rick wading through the thorn bushes of government grant proposals. Then, months later, good news! They got a grant from the Ontario Government! During some friendly theatre chit-chat, Art mentioned to Rick that he was having fun with an interesting old script. Rick immediately said, “Well then, let’s do that one!” And Babes in Arms was born again. One of Art’s students from the 1980s, Mary-Ellen Willard, stepped out of the past to offer her design and advertising business, adHOME Creative, to help them find a name and a logo for the new company, and so emerged Silver Spotlight Theatre. So that’s theatre…any dreamer needs to find believers that can help make reality out of that fantasy, and that’s just what happened! (And Art still has his hilarious updated Trial by Jury script standing by!) A BRANCH OF
3 . A D V E N T U R E Art With Panache is located In the Talbot Centre Mall 465 RICHMOND STREET, LONDON, ONTARIO https://artwithpanachelondon.com Audrey Cooper, Founder and Owner LONDON MUSIC WEEK fclma.ca JUNE 11 - 18, 2023
SILVER SPOTLIGHT THEATRE’S FOUNDER AND BABES IN ARMS CO-DIRECTOR: ART FIDLER It has been especially satisfying, as the eldest member of Silver Spotlight Theatre, to be working with my relatively Babe-ish friend Rick Smith. I’ve been able to watch, listen, encourage, attempt to inspire, help with Properties, Costumes and technical elements…and one of my very favourite things…whispering my little bright ideas and thoughts to others in hopes of helping. I was around to be a founding member of London Musical Theatre, nowMusical Theatre Productions, in 1988, and I’mnowhappy to have Silver Spotlight as a wing of that organization. In 1989, my wife Min and I met my Co-Director Rick in LMT’s 42nd Street, and our Babes’ Producer Kelly Holbrough and her husband Jeff in 1990 in the Company of LMT’s The Music Man. The Babes’ Music Director Janis Wallace was a parent of two of my Original Kids in my tenure there as Artistic Director, when I found out that she was also a musician. And something that truly touches my heart is to be working again, up to 50 years later with a colony of my Oakridge S. S. students and school show kids (and a fellow staff member too) from right back to the early 1960’s. So if these are the kinds of connections and reconnections that Silver Spotlight Theatre can bring about, then a lot of its work has started successfully and is so valuable. Of course, you, our audience members provide the rest of our artistic circle. We love seeing you in front of us, listening, laughing, applauding, giving back to us as our Babes reach out to give our all to you. As Kurt Vonnegut said, “There’s no better or faster way to find good friends than to be in a play with them”, and of course that includes the audience: our new friends every performance. Just like magic! The magic of LIVE THEATRE. Artistic Team (L-R): Rick Smith, Janis Wallace, Art Fidler, Kelly Holbrough, Candy Robinson, Teri May
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CO-DIRECTOR’S NOTES: RICK SMITH What can one do when a whirlwind of ideas and dreams, otherwise known as Art Fidler, blows in to propose a new adventure? You hang on for dear life and prepare for the experience of a lifetime. Still whirling from the offer to work with him again, he dropped the title Babes in Arms in my lap. All I could do is say “Yes!”. Along the way we brought long-time friend Kelly Holbrough on board to produce, who in turn enlisted Candy Robinson to Stage Manage and having worked with the talented Janis Wallace in the past, we knew she was the perfect fit to lead our music direction. And then we discovered Teri May who added some fancy footwork to the musical numbers. It came together so effortlessly it was just meant to be. And as if that wasn’t enough, we met the incredibly wonderful people who eagerly auditioned for us. Overwhelmed by the turnout and degree of talent, it was plain to see this show was destined to make it to the stage and leave an indelible memory for all involved (hopefully that includes the audience too). A community was born and all because of a little barn big enough to put on a show. Dreams really do become reality. Imagine! PRODUCER’S NOTES: KELLY HOLBROUGH When Art Fidler and Rick Smith invited me to be part of the Artistic Team for this new cool idea that had been Art’s brainchild for several years – how could I say no? To be involved in something new, at grassroots – and with such talented people – would surely be an amazing opportunity! Working together we brought in the talented Janis Wallace as Musical Director and in short time we had the most organized person I know – Candy Robinson – to join us as Stage Manager. During auditions we knew we had more than a 55+ show. We were building a community with each person bringing their own unique story to the table. Babes in Arms is a show that will entertain you but it is more than that. This is a group of individuals who are reaching back into their youth and sharing their stories that brought them back to the stage years later. As Walt Disney said, “First, think. Second, dream. Third, believe. And finally, dare.” We present to you Babes in Arms – sit back and enjoy!
MTP SEASON SPONSORS MTP and Silver Spotlight Theatre would like to thank all our generous sponsors, whose support makes our productions possible. To see our sponsors, and to learn how to become a sponsor, please visit mtplondon.ca ABOUT MUSICAL THEATRE PRODUCTIONS (MTP) Musical Theatre Productions (MTP) is a non-profit, charitable organization formed in 1988 in London, Ontario. MTP stages several productions and other musical events each year and has produced over 75 musicals for the enjoyment of London audiences. For more information, visit mtplondon.ca, or follow us @mtplondon (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok). MTP BOARD OF DIRECTORS SUE MCKONE PATRICK HOFFER ANDREW RETHAZI CHRISTINE GRUENBAUER EVAN JONES BEN LEIBOVITZ STEPH MOLLOY LUCAS MCHUGH TOM SMYTH JOE RECCHIA HENRY TRUONG BRIAN WHITWHAM PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT TREASURER SECRETARY FUNDRAISING DIRECTOR SEASON PLANNING DIRECTOR PUBLICITY DIRECTOR MEMBERSHIP ENGAGEMENT DIRECTOR FACILITIES DIRECTOR BOARD LIAISONS
MUSICAL THEATRE PRODUCTIONS PRESIDENT’S NOTES: SUSAN MCKONE The Board of Directors of Musical Theatre Productions is excited to welcome this new wing to our organization. Providing opportunities to the talents in the London and surrounding area has been our vision from day one. We have started a journey of diversity which is not limited to race, gender, sexual orientation or ethnic heritage. It also applies to age. London is rich in arts resources for children, and outlets for performers from teens to mid-age but there is a gap for people aged 55+. With funding from the Government of Ontario’s Seniors Community Grant Program, our organization started the Silver Spotlight Theatre, a branch of MTP providing opportunities to vibrant seniors looking for outlets to express themselves. We are thrilled to witness Silver Spotlight’s first production, Babes in Arms. Having been a part of this organization for over 30 years, it is wonderful for me to welcome back old friends, see new faces on stage and behind the scenes, and extend a well-deserved thank you to all.
BABES IN ARMS SYNOPSIS Babes in Arms is a 1937 coming-of-age musical comedy set during the worst days of the Great Depression. Communism appears to many as the best alternative to capitalism. Prejudice, white supremacy, male chauvinism and Confederate nonsense are alive and well. Vaudeville is on its deathbed and Hollywood is soaring, but child stars (a phenomenon led by Shirley Temple) are getting too old to get film roles. The nation is crisscrossed by “tramps”, including many young people down on their luck. Work farms have been created to sequester and put to work people without means, including the young. It’s the heyday of trans-Atlantic solo flight competitions. People listen to the radio to keep up with the news and the most popular songs come from Broadway shows. Babes in Arms is about a group of small-town Long Island youth (the term teenager wouldn’t be invented for nine more years) whose actor parents go on the road for five months in order to earn some money by reviving Vaudeville. While their parents are gone, the young people decide to put on a show to avoid being sent to a work farm by the town sheriff. If you could find a barn and get financing… you could put on a show. Only in this version, the youth are played by adults 55 years of age or older. MUSICAL NUMBERS ACT 1: Where or When: Val and Billie Babes in Arms: Ensemble I Wish I Were In Love Again: Dolores and Gus Light On Our Feet: Irma, Ivy and Regina Way Out West: Baby Rose and Girls, Ensemble My Funny Valentine: Billie Johnny One Note: Baby Rose and Girls, Ensemble ACT 2: Imagine: Ensemble You Took Advantage of Me: Val and Billie Mountain Greenery: Petra and Men Manhattan: Petra and Women Blue Moon: Petra, Lee and Women The Lady is a Tramp: Billie This Can’t Be Love: Dolores and Gus The Lady is a Tramp Reprise: Marshall and Billie Johnny One Note Reprise: Baby Rose, Ensemble Finale: Ensemble
James Ehnes, Canada’s most acclaimed violinist plays Brahms’ monumental violin concerto, PLUS, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2. Guest Conductor: Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser Get your tickets at londonsymphonia.ca Use coupon code WAEB2223 and save 10% JAMES AND THE GIANTS SATURDAY, 20 MAY 2023 at 7:30P.M. sponsored by London Symphonia Babes-in-Arms ad.indd 1 2023-02-17 2:47:34 PM
BABES IN ARMS CAST - LEADS DAN SURMAN (Val Lamar): Dan retired from Pearson School for the Arts after teaching music in Southwestern Ontario for 42 years. He founded The Canadian Celtic Choir and, as conductor for 10 years, developed it into a vibrant group, recognized nationally and internationally. Dan also conducted a number of other adult choirs in the area. He is enthusiastic about being involved in the inaugural production of Silver Spotlight Theatre. Thanks to Art, Rick, and the production crew for bringing it to life. MARGO SURMAN (Billie Smith): Margo is thrilled to be on stage again with her husband of 50 years. A retired classroom music teacher and voice teacher with the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto for 30 years, Margo was also the Founder and Artistic Director of the Tapestry Musical Theatre Company for 10 years. She performs as a concert soloist internationally and her favourite pastime is spending time with her daughter Rebecca and teenage granddaughter Lucy. Special thanks to Art, Rick and the cast and crew! RICK SMITH (Marshall Blackstone): Rick is usually cast in the comic relief roles. Babes in Arms is no different. FromMarcellus Washburn in Music Man to the Duke of Plaza-Tora in the Gondoliers, you can see Rick mugging it for the audience. PETER RUSSELL (Sheriff Reynolds): Peter has always been a lover of singing and acting from age 8 in his Oakville church choir and has performed with London Community Players and the Huron Country Playhouse. He is privileged to be part of this supportive cast as a Sheriff with a marshmallow heart and welcomes his family and friends to the show. TRACEY ANDRUS (Dolores Reynolds): Born and raised here, Tracey’s love for theatre arose when being involved in three musicals at Oakridge Secondary School. Wonderful Town, Wish You Were Here and Bye Bye Birdie were the highlights of her school days. She’s incredibly excited to be a part of this production and to be back on stage again. Having a blast with the over 55s! JEFF KIRTON (Gus Fielding): A founding member of local party band, The Hot Tub Hippies, Jeff has enjoyed playing all over southwestern Ontario for over 30 years. But never has he been more excited about anything than being cast in Babes in Arms! SUSAN SMYTHE (Petra Ross): Susan has performed in three high school productions, Art Fidler’s “Oliver!” in Victoria Park, 42 seasons with Fanshawe Chorus London, 18 seasons of Karen Schuessler Singers and 20 seasons of JAZZ BY THE BOG benefit concert series. She’s an elementary school secretary at TVDSB with two talented daughters (and one cute granddaughter). Susan has been married for 50 years to a wonderful man and is now back to her love of live theatre! GORD HARDCASTLE (Lee Calhoun): “The world may come to an end but love and music will endure.” Music has always been an integral part of Gord’s life— boy soprano, rocker, gospel, folk, musical direction. He fell in love on a piano bench 40+ years ago with Maria, who plays Irene (and the piano). He thanks Art and Rick for letting him play the superior bad guy.
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BABES IN ARMS CAST - LEADS ANN LOEBACH (Irma De Quincy): Singing was the barometer Ann’s mother used to determine her daughter’s well-being. Theatres in Mexico, Port Stanley, and community and church choirs have all given Ann much happiness. As co-founders of the 50s and 60s quartet, The Satiniques, she and her husband Joe loved performing locally and internationally for nine years. SUSAN DEAN (Ivy De Quincy): A late-bloomer to theatre, the acting bug hit Susan 10 years ago, and there was no looking back! Susan feels blessed to be part of the special connection developed among all involved in this production and is grateful for the support of her family and friends. KAREN HAMILTON-MACDONALD (Regina Calhoun): After a brief career in acting (during her 20’s), Karen changed focus to teach drama to children and raise a family. She’s the proud Nana of 6 wonderful grandchildren and so excited to be in this amazing production, playing the feisty young Regina alongside so many talented people! JANICE VAN DASLER: (Baby Rose): Before joining Silver Spotlight Theatre, Janice did productions at Oakridge Secondary School with Art Fidler and recalls those as the highlight of her high school career. She thanks her husband, Rob, and sons Andrew and Ian for supporting her adventure. MARK BAINES (Rene Flambeau): A veteran of London’s theatre community, Mark’s past credits include the University Players Guild, TheatreFaux, Second City, Mystery Unlimited, Murder For Hire and Maybles’ Productions. After a 12-year hiatus, he’s thrilled to be back, joining Silver Spotlight Theatre’s “Babes” to bring you an unforgettable evening of music and fun.
Tickets: General admission - $40 / Students - FREE at door with valid student ID Advance Ticket Sales: Grand Theatre Box Office Online: grandtheatre.com/event/jeffery-concerts Phone: 519-672-8800 / In-person: 471 Richmond Street Door Sales: Credit Card/Debit/Cash Four-ticket packages also available Arthur Rowe ARTISTIC DIRECTOR TORQ PERCUSSION QUARTET VIANO STRING QUARTET & ARTHUR ROWE, PIANO Saturday, April 1, 2023 | 7:30PM Wolf Performance Hall 251 Dundas Street, London Featuring "Light Years-Dark Matter" - an immersive, spatial program involving projections and videos Saturday, April 29, 2023 | 7:30PM Wolf Performance Hall 251 Dundas Street, London Featuring the Dvořák Piano Quintet in A major Op. 81 and string quartets by Piazzolla, Lau, and Beethoven JCBabesInArmsHalfPgAdv4.pdf 1 2/17/2023 11:11:16 AM
BABES IN ARMS CAST - ENSEMBLE BARB CURRADO (Darla): Having found a love for theatre at Oakridge High School with the incomparable Art Fidler, Barb longed to return. While working to live for the last 35 years and raising four children with her wonderful husband Angelo, it has been Barb’s dream to return to the stage. Babes is her opportunity! MARIA HARDCASTLE (Irene): Maria grew up in a large Irish family with singing and the piano centering at every gathering. She is forever grateful to her mother Irene for the love that keeps her even now taking piano lessons. Forty-five years ago, Maria met Gord on a piano bench. Romance blossomed! What an opportunity for them to be together in this cast of talented seniors. HEATHER HEATHCOTE (Ruby): Heather is thrilled to be part of the Ensemble. It takes her back to her teens, and the hours of fun and camaraderie rehearsing for productions in St. John’s, NL. She’s proud she put on her big girl panties and headed off to audition on that grey day in December. Thank you, Artistic Team! JOHN HENDERSON (Solly): Having been a part of an ensemble for a musical comedy in his youth, Silver Spotlight Theatre has given John an opportunity in retirement to turn back the clock. Babes in Arms has terrific songs and the performers in the show have a lot to give. ANGIE JANSEN (Jayne): She’s ‘silver’ and 75. After her son and daughter became adults, Angie went to Western for her Pastoral Care certification and Social Work degree at 50 years old. She swims and hikes and belongs to Probus Club and the Kiwanis Senior Centre. Angie is so grateful to Silver Spotlight for this first opportunity in Babes in Arms. MIKE JEWISON (George): A long-time theatre-goer but first-time performer, Mike is thrilled to be included in the cast of Babes in Arms. He hopes to learn a lot from his talented cast mates and anticipates this will be the first step towards that EGOT he has long coveted. CARMEN LAMOND (Esther): Carmen, new to the stage, has had lots of singing experience with school choirs and later the Canadian Celtic Choir. She joined the Nostalgic Theatre with senior adults performing old-time music, skits and monologues. She is thrilled to be involved in Babes and hopefully more in the future. NEILA LAWSON (Pearlie): Neila started singing in War Memorial Hospital for children at the tender age of four. She started playing piano at age five and moved on to organ at age 14. She has directed choirs in schools, churches and nursing homes, and shows in many SW towns. Neila hopes to keep on singin’, playin’ and havin’ fun! MARIA MARSH (Girlie): What a scream it was playing Veronica’s Mom in Heathers (McManus Theatre), a hoot being Mrs. Allen in Dark of the Moon, Mrs. Reynolds in Pride and Prejudice, Agnes Gooch in Mame: (Palace Theatre), and so empowering to be Irene Parlby in Edmonton 1917, Huldah Shenick in Pioneer Village and the Queen of Hearts in Alice in Wonderland (Capitol Theatre, St. Thomas).
celebrating 40 years 5 9 5 R I C H M O N D S T . L O N D O N O N T A R I O W W W . J O E K O O L S . C A (OF SLOW SERVICE)
BABES IN ARMS CAST - ENSEMBLE TERI MAY (Phyllis McCabe): Retired after 20 years in the Canadian Armed Forces, Teri recently returned to her hometown. After a regimented career, she is thoroughly enjoying the spontaneity and exciting escapades of the theatre community. Teri dedicates this performance to her friends and family for all their support. DON MILLAR (Jimmy): After three theatre roles in his younger years, Don had a career as a chiropractor and raised a son. Now retired, he seized the opportunity to work with two amazing directors, Art Fidler and Rick Smith, and the talented BABES Company! LAURA OCOVICH (Ella): Music has always been in Laura’s heart, second only to her beautiful, loving and supportive family. Singing has been a magical part of her life since childhood. After several years away from it, Laura is grateful to be returning to her passion and can’t wait to see where it takes her. JOHN PALMER (John Amos): In recent shows, John was type-cast as a semi-senile lecherous old man. It’s a relief to him to be cast as a young activist – throwbacks to his days in the civil rights and anti-war movements. What fun this has been! MARGARITA SANCHEZ-FAVRO (Lola): Margarita has been involved in theatre since she was little in her home country, Venezuela, where she won acting awards. Her first appearance in Canada was with Link Theatre, then with LCP, MTP and Pacheco Theatre. She’s thrilled to be part of the Silver Spotlight and one of the “Babes” in this amazing production. ROB SMITH (Trigger and Bassist): Rob joined his school choir in Grade 6 and during first practice, he got kicked out for showing too much enthusiasm. So, he stopped singing at school until Grade 11 when he joined Gerald Fagan’s choir, and everything changed for life. So here he is now…and you’re stuck with him! JAYNE TERRY (Mickey): Jayne participated in theatre during her high school years, but attended before big musicals were performed. She loves Broadway musicals, and thanks to Musical Theatre Productions, Silver Spotlight, Rick and Art, she is living a dream in retirement of singing in a musical! And performing with her brother John is better than she could ever have imagined. Thanks for this fabulous experience. MARY-ELLEN WILLARD (Daisy): After honing her lead vocals over the years with a few area bands, Mary-Ellen is delighted to bring her talent to the stage in her second-ever musical comedy. She performed in a high school production of “Wish You Were Here” under Art’s direction and she’s honoured to have the chance to work with him again, supported always by her biggest cheerleader, Andrew. TONI WILSON (Anna): Toni has been part of Musical Theatre Productions over the years either on the stage or in the Director’s chair. Most of the time she’s shared her passion for drama by teaching secondary school students. Silver Spotlight Theatre gives her and the Babes another chance to shine. MITCHELL ZIMMER (Clem): Mitch has tinkered with the harmonica since the late 1980’s playing in various folk/rock/blues bands. He and his wife, Maria Marsh, trained at different times with Patrick McKenna and Bruce Hunter at Second City in London. They met while performing an improvisational comedy skit.
A Taste of Europe Since 1974 122 Carling Street, London, ON N6A 1H6 Tel: (519) 679-9940 Fax: (519) 679-1973 www.marienbad.ca CARLING TALBOT RICHMOND DUNDAS KING JLC • Fabulous Food & Atmosphere • Over 85 Beers From Around The World • Distinctive Selection Of Single Malt Scotches • Murder Mystery Dinner Shows • Live Entertainment • Year Round Courtyard Atrium • Two Outdoor Patios • Two Banquet & Meeting Rooms For Up To 85 • High Speed Internet Access • Informal Old World Dining • Just Around the Corner from the John Labatt Centre A Taste of Europe Since 1974 • Fabulous Food & Atmosphere • Free Wi-Fi • Over 85 Beers from around the World • Di tinctive Selection of Single Malt Scotches • Three Private Rooms for up to 85 • Just around the corner from the Budweiser Gardens 122 Carling Street, London, ON N6A 1H6 Tel: (519) 679-9940 Fax: (519) 679-1973 www.marienbad.ca A Tas e of Europ Since 1974 122 Carling Street, London, ON N6A 1H6 Tel: (519) 679-9940 Fax: (519) 679-1973 www.marienbad.ca CARLING TALBOT RICHMOND DUNDAS KING JLC • Fabulous Food & Atmosphere • Over 85 Beers From Around The World • Distinctive Selection Of Single Malt Scotches • Murder Mystery Dinner Shows • Live Entertainment • Year Round Courtyard Atrium • Two Outdoor Patios • Two Banquet & Meeting Rooms For Up To 85 • High Speed Internet Access • Informal Old World Dining • Just Around the Corner from the John Labatt Centre A Taste of Europe Since 1974 • Fabulous Food & Atmosphere • Free Wi-Fi • Over 85 Beers from around the World • Distinctive Selection of Single Malt Scotches • Three Private Rooms for up to 85 • Just around the corner from the Budweiser Gardens 122 Carling Street, London, ON N6A 1H6 Tel: (519) 679-9940 Fax: (519) 679-1973 www.marienbad.ca A Taste of Europe Since 1974 CARLING TALBOT RICHMOND DUNDAS • Fabulous F od & Atmosphere • Over 85 Beers From Around The World • Distinctive Selection Of Single Malt Scotches • Murder Mystery Dinner Shows • Live Entertainment • Year Round Courtyard Atri m • Two Outdoor Patios • Two Banquet & Meeting Rooms For Up To 85 • High Speed Internet Access • Informal Old orld Dining • Just Around the Corner from the John Labatt A Taste of Eu • Fabul us Food & Atm • Free Wi-Fi • Over 85 Beers from a • Distinctive Selection o • Three Private Rooms • Just around the corne 122 Carl Tel: (519) www.ma A Taste of Europe Since 1974 CARLING TALBOT RICHMOND DUNDAS KING JLC • Fabulous Food & Atmosphere • Over 85 Beers From Around Th World • Distinctive Selection Of Single Malt Scotches • Murder Mystery Dinner Shows • Live Entertainment • Year Round Courtyard Atrium • Two Outdoor Patios • Two Banquet & Meeting Rooms For Up To 85 • High Speed Internet Access • Informal Old World Dining • Just Around the Corner from the John Labatt Centre A Taste of Europe Since 1974 • Fabulous Food & Atmosphere • Free Wi-Fi • Over 85 Beers from around the World • Di ti ctive Selection of Single Malt Scotches • Three Private Rooms for up to 85 • Just around the corner from the Budweiser Gardens 122 Carling Street, London, ON N6A 1H6 Tel: (519) 679-9940 Fax: (519) 679-1973 www.marienbad.ca A Taste of Europe Since 1974 122 Carling Street, London, ON N6A 1H6 Tel: (519) 679-9940 Fax: (519) 679-1973 www.marienbad.ca CARLING TALBOT RICHMOND DUNDAS KING JLC • Fabulous Food & Atmosphere • Over 85 Beers From Around The World • Distinctive Selection Of Single Malt Scotches • Murder Mystery Dinner Shows • Live Entertainment • Year Round Courtyard Atrium • Two Outdoor Pa ios • Two Banquet & Meeting Rooms For Up To 85 • High Speed Internet Access • Informal Old World Dining • Just Around the Corner from the John Labatt Centre A Taste of Europe Since 1974 • Fabulous Food & Atmosphere • Fr e Wi-Fi • Over 85 Beers from around the World • Distinctive Selection of Single Malt Scotches • Three Private Rooms for up to 85 • Just around the corner from the Budweiser Gardens 122 Carling Street, London, ON N6A 1H6 Tel: (519) 679-9940 Fax: (519) 679-1973 www.marienbad.ca 20 23 S U M M E R T H E A T R E 6-302 Bridge Street, Port Stanley 519-782-4353 www.psft.ca PortStanley FestivalTheatre June 14 to July 8 By Norm Foster If opposites attract, then Rudy and Norah should be a match made in heaven! Rudy wants a houseful of kids, Norah … not so much. A classic romantic comedy. RESERVE YOUR SEATS Wrong For Each Other
BABES IN ARMS CREW - ARTISTIC TEAM KELLY HOLBROUGH (Producer): Kelly is thrilled to be part of the Artistic Team for Silver Spotlight’s first show! Before Musical Theatre Productions came to fruition, she was involved in shows with LMT. Community theatre has created great memories and lasting friendships along the way. Kelly was most recently part of the re-mix of “Broadway to the Max”! Now, let us entertain you! ART FIDLER (Co-Director): A founding member of Musical Theatre Productions, and now, proudly, of its wing, Silver Spotlight Theatre, Art has enjoyed notoriety in London community, university, high school and youth theatre, but nothing has made him happier than heading to rehearsal with the delightful BABES company, lovingly supported by his darling Min. RICK SMITH (Co-Director & Set Design): After 33 years of performing, directing, and holding a chair on the Board of Directors for Musical Theatre Productions, Rick couldn’t be more excited to be involved in the latest evolution of this theatre company. He has reconnected with some long-time (not old) friends and has met many more new ones. Rick hopes you enjoy the show as much as he has enjoyed being a part of it. Thank you, Art, for coming up with the idea and asking him to join in. JANIS WALLACE (Music Director): Research shows music stimulates memories and increases our well-being. It is a powerful way to bring people together. It has been Janis’s identity since her stage debut at age five, playing triangle. Being part of Babes is a wonderful chance to spread the joy of music - and create great memories. TERI MAY (Choreographer): For Teri, early lessons in tap, ballet and jazz and a passion for Bob Fosse musicals forged a lifelong love of dance. Add in some ballroom, contemporary and line dancing and no matter what music is playing her feet and body are moving. A Japanese Proverb states “we’re fools whether we dance or not, so we might as well dance. “ CANDY ROBINSON (Stage Manager): When Candy was approached to be part of Babes in Arms, she thought, “Sure! Sounds like a great way to fight the winter blues!” And then she was asked to be Stage Manager because of her ability to keep people organized in real life. Being part of such a great artistic team has been amazing! Babes in Arms is a fantastic group of youthful, spirited folks, who are ready to entertain you! CAMERON JOHNSTON (Assistant Stage Manager): Being part of the Silver Spotlight experience means taking a shot at an adventure Cameron couldn’t have imagined way back when. Deepest thanks to Art Fidler and Alan Stratton for their encouragement in his early theatre years, (when he was 64!), and of course to Celia, for always believing in him. ALAN MILLS (Assistant Stage Manager): Alan has had a long connection with musicals and drama productions in High Schools and University, both in Canada and overseas. He has sung, danced, and acted onstage and served many functions behind the scenes including directing, producing, and in assisting roles.
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BABES IN ARMS CREW - PRODUCTION TEAM TOM SMYTH, (Production Coordinator/Manager): In Tom’s 30 years of musical theatre experience, Babes in Arms will be his 30th production. Involved in set design, set construction, assistant stage management and production coordination, the challenge of coordinating different teams with the goal of presenting nothing but the best to an audience, is what addicted him. “Much love to his Sheila for her patience through all of this.” ELLEN MALLETT (Costumes Head): Clothes make a statement; costumes tell a story. As Wardrobe Mistress at Original Kids Theatre Company for 10 years, Ellen has lost count of the number of shows she’s helped on and friends she’s made. She started out helping on her boys’ shows. It turned into a job; now it’s turned into recreation. If they look good, we’ve accomplished what we set out to do. KATHRYN SHERWIN (Costumes): Having had a professional costume career for over 50 years including The Grand Theatre, Confederation Theatre, Stratford Festival, Ballet, Opera, Broadway, and TV/ Film, Kathryn is delighted to again join in a production with Art Fidler, her first London Director, as she begins semi-retirement, and takes part in this theatre adventure. VIVIAN HUARD (Costumes): Vivian’s wardrobe experience was gained at her daughters’ dance studio, sewing costumes and dressing dancers backstage. She has played clarinet in the London Concert Band for over 20 years and enjoys thrift store shopping. SUSAN HALL (Costumes): Since 2014, Susan has enjoyed working backstage in a variety of shows in the areas of costume design and stage management. It is wonderful to be involved with theatre again and she looks forward to working with the cast and crew of Babes in Arms. BONNIE DUNKERLEY (Costumes): Bonnie is excited to assist behind the scenes for the first time with this production. When she’s not researching genealogy or out walking, she is often sewing, knitting or tending her small jungle of house plants. ROB COLES (Lighting Design Head): Rob has had a rich and varied life in theatre as a designer and director. His contribution in both roles, especially with the Palace Theatre, Arts Common and the London Community Players, has been a strong part of his artistic life. His last lighting design for Musical Theatre Productions was Hello, Dolly! TRINA BROOKS (Props Co-Head): As a drama student of Art Fidler’s, Trina was always impressed with his attention to every detail, right down to the props, so she is thrilled to join Silver Spotlight as Co-Head of the Props Department. She’ll use all she has learned from the master himself. DANIELLE LANOUE (Props Co-Head): Danielle has thoroughly enjoyed working on props for Babes in Arms. Getting back into the theatre has been exactly what she didn’t know she needed. Thanks to friends old and new for making this a great experience and helping the winter fly by.
Wellspring gives people hope, joy, support, comradery, community and refuge. This can make all the difference between coping and not coping. I know because I’m one of these people.” Wellspring Member M. Wellspring London & Region is a local organization offering a variety of free programs and resources to help people cope with the emotional, physical, and practical challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis. Lean On Us For Cancer Support Please consider helping us provide critical cancer support services to individuals and families in need. l Support a program l Sponsor a room in our Centre l Leave a Bequest For more information or to book a tour: joanna@wellspringlondon.ca 519.438.7479. wellspringlondon.ca “ Charitable Reg #:86424 6129 RR0001 Babes in Arms Ad.qxp_Layout 1 2023-02-13 12:17 PM Page 1 DANIELA SANDS O C SALES REPRESENTATIVE danielasands@gmail.com 519.649.6900 519.902.1065 519 YORK STREET, LONDON ON N6B 1R4 www.streetcityrealty.com R E A L T Y DANIELA SANDS O C SALES REPRESENTATIVE danielasands@gmail.com 519.649.6900 519.902.1065 519 YORK STREET, LONDON ON N6B 1R4 www.streetcityrealty.com R E A L T Y
BABES IN ARMS CREW - PRODUCTION TEAM SHELLEY LEVI (Props Co-Head): Shelley’s enthusiastic love of theatre extends all the way back to her Oakridge High School years, and she’s thrilled to bring back the excitement and satisfaction that contributes to the creation of a happy experience for live audiences. JIM CRESSMAN (Media Relations): When Jim was not out covering a sports event during his almost 36 years at The London Free Press, or off umpiring a baseball game somewhere, you could usually find him in a seat at a theatre. Now retired, the latter is a given. MARY-ELLEN WILLARD (Graphic Design Head): As one of the owners of adHOME Creative, Mary-Ellen and her team developed the Silver Spotlight Theatre brand and created the design for the Babes in Arms show. She’s always loved theatre and film and having a chance to give back in support of this new venture has been extremely rewarding. RICHARD YOUNG (Program Head): A retired high school History teacher, former publisher of the Beat Magazine and now a part-time freelance writer, Rick is excited to bring his skills and expertise to the task of preparing the Program for Babes in Arms. VAL CAVALINI (Program): Val has always had a love for musical theatre. Broadway soundtracks were constantly played in her childhood home. Her event-planning background and enthusiasm for musicals will naturally extend to help create a top-notch Program. GORD HARDCASTLE (Set Construction Head): Gord has been a Musical Theatre Productions Swamp Rat set builder for over 20 years. Check out his faux piano which has now been a star in three productions. THE SWAMP RATS: Peter Cassidy, Chris Smalley, and Maria Hardcastle (Set Construction/Build Team). In our retirement, we Swamp Rats enjoy building sets for musical theatre. It inspires and activates our creative juices; it’s fun to do, and it’s certainly a welcome change from our daily routine. The payoff and reward comes when we watch the cast performing alongside our creations. PETER MENNIE (Sound and Projections Head): If you are reading this, thank you, but go back and re-read about the more important people in this show. If you still want to learn about Peter, take out your phone and find his website. He’s Canada’s “That Magic Guy”…there’s video and everything! But put your phone on mute first! Now, pick a card. Any card! HENRY TRUONG, JOE RECCHIA, STEPHANIE MOLLOY (Musical Theatre Productions Board and Publicity Liaisons): Silver Spotlight Theatre is fortunate to be a wing of MTP and receiving support from Henry, Joe, and Steph.
SILVER SPOTLIGHT THEATRE WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING INDIVIDUALS AND ORGANIZATIONS Aeolian Hall Barb Botten, Villager Publications Felicia Hampson, Pathways Employment Geoff Rae, Boomers and Beyond Magazine Government of Ontario’s Seniors Community Grant Program Henry Truong, Musical Theatre Productions Joe Belanger, The London Free Press Kathy Smith, Creative Age London Laura Sepulveda, Original Kids Theatre Company Mary-Ellen Willard and her team, adHOME Creative Mary Jane Walzak, London Community Players Michael Crusz, Wolfe Street Studios Old Oak Properties Photographer Ross Davidson Sarah Hilton and Lisa Wright, The Grand Theatre Steve Allen Head Technician, Auburn Studio The “Babes” Cast & Crew Social Committee A big Silver Spotlight pat on the back and thumbs up to all generous advertisers in this program. TITLE SPONSOR PRODUCTION PARTNERS Silver Spotlight also thanks all individuals and businesses who gave help but are not included above because of the program deadline. To all the families and friends of the Babes in Arms cast and crew…thank you for your support in helping to make your babe’s dream come true. Funded by the Government of Ontario
SILOAM UNITED CHURCH July 17- 21st 2023 Showcase July 21st- 7pm Tickets - $20/available online Cost - $225/person DREAMS COME TRUE MUSIC STUDIO SUMMER CAMP 9:00am - 12:00pm Music & Lyrics by Mel Leven, Randy Rogel, Richard Gibbs, Brian Smith, Martin Lee Fuller, Dan Root Book Adapted & Additional Lyrics by Marcy Heisler Music Adapted & Arranged by Bryan Louiselle Based on the novel by Dodie Smith & the Disney films dreamscometruemusicstudio.ca A SAFE AND INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENT FOR PEOPLE OF ALL AGES & ABILITIES TO EXPERIENCE SUCCESS IN MUSIC. DCT Director ~ Allison O'Connor SILO UNITED CHURCH l 17- 21st 2023 Sho case July 1st- 7p Tickets - $20/available online Cost - $225/person DREA S CO E TRUE USIC STUDIO SU ER CA P 9:00am - 12:00pm Music & Lyrics by Mel Leven, Randy Rogel, Richard Gibbs, Brian Smith, Martin Lee Fuller, Dan Root Book Adapted & Additional Lyrics by Marcy Heisler Music Adapted & Arranged by Bryan Louiselle Based on the novel by Dodie Smith & the Disney films dreamscometruemusicstudio.ca A SAFE AND INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENT FOR PEOPLE OF ALL AGES & ABILITIES TO EXPERIENCE SUCCESS IN MUSIC. DCT Director ~ Allison O'Connor
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