Lyric Stage of Boston Presents "Buyer & Cellar" by Jonathan Tolins - Featuring Phil Tayler - A MUST SEE!

"Buyer & Cellar" by Jonathan Tolins was a huge Off-Broadway hit last season.  When Lyric Stage Company of Boston Producing Artistic Director Spiro Veloudos saw the piece in NYC, his first thought was that Lyric should go after the rights to produce the play, and that Phil Tayler should recreate the role of Alex More.  As is usually the case when Mr. Veloudos makes theatrical judgments, he was right on target.  The play is a total delight, and Mr. Tayler's performance in this one-man comedy is the finest work he has produced in a career that is already rich with memorable performances.

This play, which runs 90 minutes without Intermission, is a fascinating and hilarious admixture of truth and fiction.

Fact: Barbra Streisand has built in the basement of her Malibu home a mall in which she stores many of the thousands of costumes, antiques, knick knacks and tchotchkes she has acquired over the years of her reign as diva.

Fact: Playwright Jonathan Tolins once had a personal encounter with Ms. Streisand at a play they were both attending.  She offered him half of her Kit Kat bar.

Fiction: From that encounter, Tolins began to fantasize about what it might be like to be a lone employee in Barbra's cellar, on call to respond to her every whim.  This play is the result of those ruminations.

Phil Tayler as Alex More
"Buyer & Cellar"
Lyric Stage of Boston
Through January 3, 2016
Photo by Mark S. Howard

The play is brilliantly written, prompting from me spontaneous belly laughs at some of the outrageous lines.  Mr. Tolins has a sardonic rapier wit and is a keen observer of culture, the human condition and the potential absurdities of life.  He has written this play so that a lone actor plays multiple roles. Alex More is the main character, an out of work actor who is offered a chance to work in Ms. Streisand's basement.  As he recounts his experiences, he also portrays Ms. Streisand, as well as the woman who is Ms. Streisand's personal assistant, who supervises Alex.  We also meet Barry, Alex's boyfriend, a flamboyant under-employed screen writer who both loves the fact that Alex has access to personal encounters with Barbra, but is also insanely jealous of Alex's good fortune. Finally, we have a brief encounter with Barbra's current husband, James Brolin.

Phil Tayler as James Brolin
"Buyer & Cellar"
Lyric Stage of Boston
Through January 3, 2016
Photo by Mark S. Howard

This brilliant script needs a very versatile actor to execute the concept and deliver the lines in a variety of vocal styles and physical manifestations, without resorting to cartoonish caricature.  The talented Mr. Tayler pulls off this high-wire act with aplomb and panache.  It is a marathon challenge for an actor - to keep the audience engaged non-stop for 90 minutes without respite or without benefit of other actors to play off of.  When I was not laughing uproariously, I was sitting on the edge of my seat eager to see and hear what outrageous comment might come next.  Mr. Tolins has filled the actor's quiver with dozens of zingers that poke fun at the world of divas, Hollywood moguls, politicians, complex relationships and dysfunctional human beings full of insecurities.  Mr. Tayler launches Tolins' arrows with flawless precision, hitting a bullseye with each one.

There is a scene in which Alex confronts Ms. Streisand with using him solely for the purpose of figuring out what color throw pillows she should use for her Family Room sofa.  Mr. Tayler plays both sides of the argument.  Lighting cues designed by Chris Brusberg precisely coordinate with changes in character, so we are never left to wonder who is speaking.  Matching these changes in lighting a changes by Mr. Tayler in posture, gesticulation, vocal inflection to match precisely each character.  He makes particularly goof use of his hands and fingers to differentiate among characters. Scenic Designer Anthony R. Phelps has created a simple but elegant set that gives Mr. Tayler the latitude to perform his magic. Sound Designer David Remedios pipes in appropriately themed Streisand songs to set the right mood,  Costumes are by Rafael Jaen. Director Courtney O'Connor has managed to coax out of Mr. Tayler a praiseworthy performance that is an end-of-the-season MUST SEE.  Audience members were quick to leap to their feet in approbation of the incredible performance they had just witnessed.

In the past few days, I was blessed with seeing two different plays that I would have to categorize as near perfect evenings at the theater.  The first was "Hamilton" (review to follow).  The second was "Buyer & Cellar"!  So, to my upscale friends in Weston, Wellesley, Winchester and environs, I say take a break from doing inventory in your well-stocked wine cellar and buy some tickets to see "Buyer & Seller" before it is too late.  To my friends at the other end of socio-economic scale, come up for air and leave your basement apartment in Allston or Brighton or Everett and head to Back Bay to the Lyric and take in a performance of "Buyer & Cellar."  You won't have a chance to see "Hamilton" for a while, so ring out 2015 or ring in 2016 with one of the funniest plays and finest individual performances of the year!

Enjoy!

Al

Lyric Stage Website

"A Christmas Carol" at North Shore Music Theatre - This 25th Anniversary Production Is The Best Ever! Through December 23rd

Treat yourself to an early Christmas present and head to North Shore Music Theatre.  If you know me at all, you know that I am a huge fan of anything written by Charles Dickens.  His classic story, "A Christmas Carol," has enchanted me since I was a boy.  Over the decades that I have trod the earth, I have seen many adaptations and presentations of this tale dramatized on stage and screen.  I have never seen any better presentation of this story than the one presently on stage at NSMT. Everything about this production makes it worthy of investing your entertainment dollar.  It is visually stunning, theatrically mesmerizing, emotionally gripping, and spiritual uplifting, Under the inspired direction of Artistic Director Kevin P. Hill, all of the elements - staging, choreography, lighting, sound, music, acting, singing, flying, pyrotechnics - all coalesce into a pleasing whole that had me vacillating among a Christmas punch bowl of emotions - joy, wonder, amazement, sympathy, empathy, pity, hope and finally - deep satisfaction.  And isn't that the essence of the Christmas experience?

• David Coffee has inhabited the role of Ebenezer Scrooge lo these many seasons (22 to be exact), and there is no one better in portraying the dizzying arc of Scrooge's journey through time and turmoil. Mr. Coffee brews an even more satisfying cup of Christmas cheer with each new annual production of this play.  His facial expressions and grunting of "Humbug!" are along worth the price of admission. But he also has a wondrous supporting cast backing him up.
• Andrew Tighe is the young and erstwhile romantic Ebenezer, in love with life and with Belle (Lenni Alexandra Kmiec).  Their chemistry is palpable, and it is heart-rending to watch Belle's heart break as Ebenezer's heart hardens, and she is replaced in his affections by gold and his relentless pursuit of lucre.

• In adapting this novella to the stage, writer Jon Kimbell has deftly employed the role of the Narrator to create a context and explication for much of the action.  Tommy Labanaris is perfect in this role.  In a wonderful plot twist in the final moments of the show, we learn why the Narrator has been leaning upon a cane throughout the proceedings.  It is a nice touch.

• The Cratchit Family - This struggling little family is at the emotional heart of this narrative, and as portrayed by these gifted actors, we feel their affection and concern for one another. Russell Garrett is Bob Cratchit, pater familias and also beleaguered clerk to Ebenezer Scrooge.  Leigh Barrett is a warm mother and very opinionated in her resentment of the parsimonious Mr. Scrooge.  Ms. Barrett also doubles as the Ghost of Christmas Past, in which role she is also marvelous. Jillian Furber is Martha Cratchit, Cameron Perrin is Peter Cratchit, Haven Pereira is Belinda Cratchit and Jake Ryan Flynn is the universally beloved Tiny Tim.

Scrooge Observes The Cratchit Family At Table
"A Christmas Carol"
North Shore Music Theatre
Through December 23rd

•  The Spirits - In addition to the versatile Ms. Barrett as The Ghost of Christmas Past, Peter S. Adams presents an imposing figure as The Ghost of Christmas Present. berobed and bedecked in traditional holiday colors.  The aforementioned Andrew Tighe doubles as the Ghost Of Christmas Yet To Come, and is a haunting spectre. He is accompanied by Ignorance (Joshua Gillespie) and Want (Jay Turner). The writer has cleverly created two sprites called The Pearlies who energetically tumble and dance and generally cavort around the stage. Their presence indicates to the audience that we are about to experience the appearance of a spirit from another realm.  The first such visit is that of the Ghost of Jacob Marley (Freddie Kimmel) as he flies in (flying effects by ZFX, Inc.) to warn Scrooge that it is not too late to stop forging the kinds of ponderous chains that envelop the spectral former business partner and fellow miser.  The Pearlies are played by the enormously talented Nathaniel Brage and Brad Trump.  Their presence in each scene serves as a sort of theatrical amuse-bouche for the audience, preparing our palates for the more substantial ghostly offerings to come on the bill of fare.

Freddie Kimmel as Marley

"A Christmas Carol"

North Shore Music Theatre

Through December 23rd

• The Scrooge Family - In addition to those already mentioned above, Scrooge's extended family includes Giacomo Favazza as the boy Ebenezer, Bronson Norris Murphy as the irrepressible and ever joyful nephew Fred, Lianne Gennaco as Fred's bride, Meg and Scarlett Keene-Connole as Ebenezer's sister Fan.

• The Fezziwigs - J.T. Turner as Mr. Fezziwig and Cheryl McMahon as Mrs. Fezziwig anchor the luminous memories of the young clerk Ebenezer being treated with great affection by his first employer.  This joyous couple knew how to throw a party!
• Revelers, Townsfolk and Others - Robert Conte as Old Joe, Jake Bassinger and Ian Castracane as London boys, Tim McShea as Dick Wilkins, and Eva Rae Costanza, Lorin Zackular, Meghan Ahern as residents of London.

Adding to the overall effect are spectacular pyrotechnics by Atlas Fireworks, superb Lighting by Jack Mehler, Sound by Leon Rothenberg, Costumes by Paula Peasley-Ninestein, Hair and Wigs by Gerard Kelly and Scenic Design by Howard C. Jones.  On the music front, original music was composed and arranged by Alby Potts and James Woodland.  Music Director Milton Granger leads a multi-talented group of musicians and singers who perform in every corner of the theatre.

Tickets to this production are always in great demand, so do not delay, and do not disappoint by waiting too long.  You will have a Dickens of a time explaining to your family why you did not bring them to this year's production of NSMT's timeless "A Christmas Carol."

God bless us, everyone!

Enjoy!

Al

NSMT Website

Fiddlehead Theatre Company Delights With A Perfect Adaptation of "The Little Mermaid" - Through December 6th at the Strand Theatre

I absolutely love the current Fiddlehead Theatre Company production of Disney's "The Little Mermaid."  It is delightful in every way - the music, the staging, the scenery, the costumes, the singing, the dancing, the flying/swimming and the squeals of delights from adults and children in the audience.  You may be aware that Fiddlehead Theatre Company has announced that this is their last production at the historic Strand Theatre.  They will be moving into the Theater District for their next productions of "Rent" at Back Bay Events Center (February 5-21, 2016) and "Show Boat" at The Citi Performing Arts Center Shubert Theatre (June 23-July 2, 2016).  They are leaving Dorchester on a high water mark, to be sure, as they set sail for new shores.

Director Stacey Stephens has cast a wide net in luring talented actors from local Boston waters as well as from more exotic and distant seas.  The resulting company is without a weak link - great voices, terrific and nuanced acting, and memorable stage presence across the board.  Alan Menken's lush music, Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater's clever and pun-filled lyrics and a coherent book by Doug Wright allow these talented performers to bait the hook, tell their stories, and reel in audience members so that we are caught up in caring about the destiny of each character - be they mortal landlubber, crustacean, fish, seagull or seagoing merfolk.  I will assume that most of the readers of The White Rhino Report are familiar with the basic outline of Hans Christian Anderson's tale that inspired this Disney adaptation.  Most of us were enchanted by the animated feature that graced movie screens a number of years ago.  This stage version is faithful to that original film in many ways, with some delightful additions.

Cast of Disney's "The Little Mermaid"
Fiddlehead Theatre Company
The Strand Theatre
Through December 6th
PHOTO COURTESY OF FIDDLEHEAD THEATRE COMPANY/ERIC ANTONIOU

Allow me to highlight the performers and numbers that had my heart pumping and my head swimming:

• Emerson student Jesse Lynn Harte is superb as Ariel, the mermaid who longs to live in "The World Above."  Her voice is reminiscent of Jodi Benson, the original voice of Ariel. That is high praise coming from me, since I adore her singing.  Ms. Harte adds layers of pathos to her character, so it is not just her gorgeous and crystal clear voice that lures us - and Prince Eric - but also her vulnerable and saucy spirit that makes her willing to follow her heart and defy her strict father, King Triton to pursue love with a human.   She shines in "Part of Your World" and "If Only - Ariel's Lament."
• Prince Eric is played masterfully and regally by Jared Troilo.  As Mr. Troilo has done in each role I have seen him perform, he uses his lustrous singing voice as a foundation upon which he builds a credible and sympathetic character.  We are rooting for the Prince to find his true love and discover the girl who own the voice that enchanted him like a Siren's song.  When he sings "Her Voice," we are convinced that he has become hopelessly enchanted by Ariel's angelic voice.
• Sebastian the Crab is played to perfection by the talented Jay Kelley, whose Jamaican heritage serves him well in the popular numbers "Under The Sea" and "Kiss The Girl."  His is an impressive and memorable performance.
• King Triton as played majestically by Andrew Giordano, whose sumptuous bass voice fills the auditorium with resonant waves of sound. He is able to display his vocal prowess to great effect in "If Only - Triton's Lament." 
• These four voices - Ariel, Eric, Sebastian and King Triton collaborate on a quartet that is the musical highlight of this show: "If Only."  The harmonies in this number, and the clever staging with each character having a prominent place to stand and sing, were so pure that I experienced a frisson of chills from the sheer joy of listening.  Bravo!
• Scott Caron is wonderful as Flounder, the cautious, nebbishy and love-sick companion to Ariel whose love for her is painfully unrequited.  It is clear that for his solo number, "She's In Love," sung with Ariel's sisters, this fish has been practicing his scales, for he nailed every note.
• As the evil and vengeful Ursula, Shana Dirik is deliciously malevolent.  She sweeps onto the stage in her outrageous costume that looks like a sea lily on steroids that has been irradiated with Strontium 90.  The outfit has been cleverly designed by Director/Costume Designer Stacey Stephens.  Along with her eely henchmen, Flotsam and Jetsam, Ms. Dirik sings a wonderfully sardonic "Daddy's Little Angel" as she plots to entice Ariel into signing a Faustian contract to sell her voice and soul for the chance to live in The World Above.  She also delights inthe number "Poor Unfortunate Souls."
• Flotsam (Chris Pittman) and Jetsam (Carl-Michale Ogle) are slippery Uriah Heeps, fawning on their mistress Ursula in creepy obsequious and servile humility.  They have their moment in the spotlight with the duet "Sweet Child."
• Andy Papas as Chef Louis serves up a banquet of comic turns, full-bodied arabesques and operatic phrases as he inadvertently freaks out the about-to-be cannibalistic Ariel a feast of seafood as she is feted by the Prince.
• Ariel's Mersisters are a motley crew, played with panache by the talented sextet of Becky Bass, Rebecca Frazier, Kara Nelson, hristy Coco, Ryoko Seta and Sarah Kawalek.  They stand out in their number "Daughters of Triton."
• Other memorable contributions comes from Bryan Miner as Pilot, Ray O'Hare as Grimsby, Eddie Cavazos as Scuttle, Arthur Cuadros as Windward, Dougie Robbins as Leeward, and Kieron Cindric, Christhian Mancinas-Garcia and Andrew Winans as Sea Creatures and Sailors.
• Special note must be given to the flawless flying/swimming effects by Flying by Foy.
• Music Director Charles Peltz leads a 22-piece orchestra that captures the spirit of MEnken's music wonderfully, filling the Strand with catchy tunes and background music.
• Mac Young has designed a set that works well, with simple but effective effects that allow us to suspend disbelief and imagine much of the action happening Under The Sea.
• Choreography by Kira Cowan-Troilo is effective, as is Lighting by Zach Blane and Sound by Brian McCoy.

Jesse Lynn Harte as Ariel
Jared Troilo as PRince Eric
Disney's "The Little Mermaid"
Fiddlehead Theatre Company
The Strand Theatre
Through December 6th
PHOTO COURTESY OF FIDDLEHEAD THEATRE COMPANY/ERIC ANTONIOU

There are only four remaining performances, beginning this evening and running through Sunday afternoon.  Set your compass for the Strand Theatre, and give yourself and some special loved ones and friends an early holiday gift.  Immerse yourself in the healing waters of this fabulous production of a delightful tale.  Don't become one of Ursula's "Poor Unfortunate Souls" by missing the boat on this wonderful show.

Shana Ririk as Ursula
Disney's "The Little Mermaid"
Fiddlehead Theatre Company
The Strand Theatre
Through December 6th
PHOTO COURTESY OF FIDDLEHEAD THEATRE COMPANY/ERIC ANTONIOU

The Strand Theatre in Dorchester’s Upham’s Corner, located at 543 Columbia Road.  A free trolley service runs to and from the Fairmont Copley Plaza hotel, available by reservation only.  Tickets are available at www.fiddleheadtheatre.com with special discounts for seniors, students, and Dorchester residents. 

Fiddlehead Theatre Website

Enjoy!

Al

"Invisible Thread" Opens At Second Stage in Manhattan - "Witness Uganda" Re-Imagined

Griffin Matthews and Cast Members
"Invisible Thread"
Second Stage
Through December 27th

A musical that began life at the American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) with the title "Witness Uganda" is now delighting New York audiences at Second Stage as "Invisible Thread." Director Diane Paulus has pulled out all the stops to help the creative team further refine the telling of this compelling real life story.  I have written extensively about the original Cambridge production, so I will try not to repeat myself here.  I strongly suggest that you take a few moments to read my original and follow-up reviews of "Witness Uganda."  In this review, I will concentrate on changes that have been made to this powerful musical.

White Rhino Report Original Review of "Witness Uganda" at A.R.T.


White Rhino Report Follow-Up "Review of Witness Uganda"

The first change that hit me was that the character of Griffin Matthew's female friend has been replaced by his boyfriend, Ryan.  This change makes perfect sense, for it brings the fictionalized telling of Griffin's pilgrimage closer to the actual facts of his real life.  In this iteration of the story, Ryan is a stand-in for composer Matt Gould.  The actor who plays Ryan, Broadway veteran Corey Mach, has studied Matt's mannerisms and looks remarkably like the composer.  He is a wonderful addition to an already strong cast. Returning Matt Gould's presence to this narrative allows us to properly see the elephant that has been there the whole time.

Adeola Role as Joy

Griffin Matthews as himself

"Invisible Thread"

Second Stage

Through December 27th

The set is beautifully rendered.  The stylized hill from Cambridge has now been replaced with reddish dirt that covers the stage and forms an earthen mound that represents the hill that the Ugandan kids claim as their own with a panoramic view of Kampala and Lake Victoria.  Elements of the set fly in from above and from the sides to recreate the mission compound and the marketplace, as well as the abandoned library that Griffin uses as a makeshift schoolroom.  Ryan's apartment back in NYC sits at a higher elevation downstage right.  The remarkable projections have been upgraded and supplemented with images that evoke New York City, Kampala, rural Uganda and the journeys between the two worlds.

The orchestra has been expanded and sits on several levels upstage left and right.  The sound combines the pulsating Africans rhythms with several pop and Gospel styles.

I have had the opportunity to see two of the NYC performances to date.  New York audiences are responding as enthusiastically as did those in Cambridge. On a recent Sunday evening many members of the casts of "Hamilton" and "The Color Purple" stopped by to take in the show.  They led the way in showing their profound appreciation for the rollicking Gospel number "Be The Light" (Bela Musana) with the soaring solo by Melody Betts.  This song remains one of the emotional high points of "Invisible Thread."  Another musical highlight is the haunting song "Beautiful," in which Griffin and his students compare the different beauties of NYC and Africa.

Please take the time to read the bios of the gifted cast members.  They have done yeoman's work in learning Ugandan accents, dance moves and locomotion.  The time that the team spent in Uganda this past summer is in evidence for they have brought some of the ethos of that land with them back to Manhattan. Adeola Role as Joy is memorable in showing the vast difference between her everyday voice and the false and affected warmth she shows to visitors to the compound.

Nicolette Robinson as Eden
Jamar Williams as Ibrahim
Tyrone Davis, Jr. as Ronnie
Kristolyn Lloyd as Grace
"Invisible Thread"

Second Stage

Through December 27th

This Second Stage production and New York Premiere of "Invisible Thread" is being presented in association with The American Repertory Theater of Cambridge.

Nicolette Robinson as Eden
Kristolyn Lloyd as Grace
Jamar Williams as Ibrahim
Tyrone Davis, Jr. as Ronnie
"Invisible Thread"

Second Stage

Through December 27th

"Invisible Thread" merchandise is being sold in the lobby to support the continuing efforts of the Uganda Project to sponsor the education of young women and men in Uganda.  Each time you attend and purchase items, you are strengthening the invisible thread that was first spun when Griffin headed out on his intrepid first trip to Uganda.  The show will run through December 27th. Secure your tickets now.

Second Stage Website

Enjoy!

Al

CO-CHOREOGRAPHED BY DARRELL GRAND MOULTRIE

CHOREOGRAPHED BY SERGIO TRUJILLO

CAST

MELODY BETTS (Ensemble, u/s Joy) is so ecstatic to join this immensely talented cast in Invisible Thread. Regional Credits include Hairspray, A Christmas Carol, The Color Purple, Ragtime,Thoroughly Modern Millie, The Boys from Syracuse, Seussical the Musical, Once on this Island, Nunsense, Cinderella (TYA), All Shook Up, The Drowsy Chaperone, Short Shakes! Comedy of Errors, Pinocchio, Motherhood the Musical, The Nativity, Smokey Joe’s Café.  TV credits include “Chicago Code” (FOX) and “Chicago PD” (NBC). MFA (WIU), AEA, SAG-AFTRA, BMI. Twitter:@melodyabetts.  Instagram: @THEEMelodyB.  Let's be kinder to one another, daily and randomly.  1 John 3:18.

RODRICK COVINGTON (Ensemble, u/s Jacob) appeared in the world premiere of Witness Uganda at A.R.T.  Regional Credits:Miss Saigon (nominated for Best Supporting Actor), Central Avenue Breakdown (Signature Theatre Company; Best Actor and Best Musical), The Brothers/Sister Plays (Steppenwolf Theatre Company; Best Actor Nomination, Best Ensemble Award), Venice(Kirk Douglas Theatre), Pippin (Mark Taper Forum), Jelly's Last Jam (Best Actor Nomination), In the Red and Brown Water(Premiere, Alliance Theatre, Best Ensemble Nomination).  International tour include South Africa at The Baxter and Market Theatre.  Broadway: The Lion King. National Tour: Fosse. TV: "Law & Order: Criminal Intent" and "Chappelle's Show." Film:Mask of the Ninja, Three Verses and Memory Running.  Founder and CEO of CORE RHYTHM FITNESS where he teaches hundreds of Artists how to unlock the Core combining Body/Mind/Spirit Work.  Love Conquers All Romans 8:29-39.corerhythmfitness.net

KEVIN CURTIS (Ensemble, u/s Ibrahim, Ronny). National Tour: A Chorus Line. NYC: Street Lights, Twilight in Manchego, NYMF; Daniella Uses Dirty Words, Abingdon Theatre Company. Regional: Witness Uganda, ART; A Chorus Line, TUTS Houston; A Chorus Line, Hairspray, The Student Prince, Pittsburgh CLO; Hairspray, High School Musical, North Shore Music Theatre. TV/Film: Take Care, Newlyweeds, “Live from Lincoln Center: Tribute to Marvin Hamlisch.” Proud graduate of AMDA NY and The Baltimore School for the Arts. Special thanks to Matt & Griff, Diane Paulus, TKO and uplifting supportive family.  Twitter: @KevinTCurtis.

TYRONE DAVIS, JR. (Ronny). National Tours: Shrek: The Musical (1st Nat’l), The Mystery of King Tut. Off Broadway/NY: Archbishop Supreme Tartuffe, Coriolanus, The Rape of the Lock, The Loves of Mr. Lincoln, The Drunken City, Life on the Mississippi.  Regional: A.R.T.: Witness Uganda (dir. Diane Paulus); Baltimore Center Stage: A Civil War Christmas; Goodspeed: Amazing Grace; Dallas Theater Center: Stagger Lee; Vinyard Playhouse: Pure Confidence; Crossroads Theatre Co: Ain’t Misbehavin’ (dir. André DeShields); Classical Theatre of Harlem: King Lear. NY Workshops/Labs: Shuffle Along, Witness Uganda, Amazing Grace, Before Midnight. Education- New World School of the Arts/Univ. of Florida, B.F.A. @tyronedavisjr

NKRUMAH GATLING (Male Swing, u/s Jacob, Ibrahim, Ronny) is excited to making his 2ST debut and overjoyed to be a part of this amazing cast! He was most recently seen in Theatre by the Sea's Little Mermaid as Sebastian, as well as the workshop of August Rush this past fall. Broadway: Hair.  National Tours: Hair, The Gershwins' Porgy and Bess, Miss.Saigon. Regional: Dreamgirls, Miss Saigon, Wonderful Life (TUTS). Much love and many thanks to my Mom, family, and everyone at BRS/Gage. Instagram:nkrumah_g

LATRISA HARPER (Ensemble, Dance Captain). Broadway: The Color Purple, The Lion King. 1st National Tours: The Color Purple, and Motown. A.R.T.: Witness Uganda. Ailey II. "Dance is the hidden language of the soul". -M. Graham. Proud AEA member.

JASON HERBERT (Ensemble) is thrilled to be a part of Invisible Thread! Credits include: National & Concert Tour of the TONY Award Winning Musical FELA! directed and choreographed by Bill T. Jones and Artistic Director Maija Garcia. Concert dance companies such as Philadanco!, Forces of Nature Dance Theater, and Kymera Dance. Appearances in Feature Films: Bolden(upcoming) and Freedom. Independent Films: Lifted and Under the Harlem Moon. This is his first Off-Broadway Production, and he would like to thank the entire Invisible Thread team for trusting in him with the opportunity to change and impact lives with Live Art at the fore front.

AISHA JACKSON Ensemble, u/s Eden, Grace) is overjoyed to be a part of this amazing cast! Broadway: Beautiful-The Carole King Musical. Regional: Memphis (Felicia), Once on This Island(TiMoune), and Witness Uganda (American Repertory Theatre). Thanks to God, my family and friends, and BBR for all the love and support! To the House of Uganda, you guys are my heart. Nkwagala nyo Simon. For Vaughn and Amy. Luke 1:37.

KRISTOLYN LLOYD (Grace). Two time NAACP Image Award Nominee for her role as Dayzee Leigh Forrester on the CBS daytime show The Bold and the Beautiful. Her on stage credits include: Paradise Blue (Williamstown), The Liquid Plain (Signature Theatre), Heathers The Musical (New World Stages), Witness Uganda(A.R.T.), Heathers The Musical (The Hudson), Hairspray, Rent (Hollywood Bowl), Once on this Island (Reprise Theatre). TV includes “ER” and “Lie To Me.”

MICHAEL LUWOYE (Jacob) is very proud to be making his Second Stage debut and to continue this journey with this uplifting team of creatives. New York: Empty House (NY Fringe), Fable (NYMF).  Regional: Marley (Center Stage): Witness Uganda (A.R.T.), Tick, tick ... BOOM! (American Theater Group), and The Three Musketeers, Once on This Island, Hairspray, Guys and Dolls at Flat Rock Playhouse. B.A. from The University of Alabama c/o 2013.|These shows are performed for my Family, my community of friends, my well-being, the students of Uganda Project, and The River. Peace.

COREY MACH (Ryan). Off-Broadway debut. Completely overjoyed to be a part of this vital, courageous piece of theatre. Broadway: Hands on a Hardbody, Godspell (Jesus/Judas standby). National Tours: Wicked, Flashdance: The Musical, Rent. Regional: Sara Bareilles’ Waitress at A.R.T., Pippin (Pippin), Violet (Monty), Harold & Maude (Harold), Lippa’s Wild Party (Burrs), I Love You Because (Austin). TV: “Codes of Conduct” (HBO; dir. Steve McQueen). Yale Institute for Music Theatre acting company. Proud grad of Baldwin-Wallace. Endless gratitude to Diane, Griff, Matt, Serge, Nicolette, Steve, and CGF. coreymach.com

TIFFANY MANN (Female Swing, u/s Eden, Grace, Joy) is a proud Texas native and is beyond delighted to be making her Off-Broadway debut. Some of her theatrical credits include: Sweeney Todd at the Lincoln Center, Claudio Quest at NYMF, Stagger Leeat Dallas Theater Center, One Night with Janis Joplin at ZACH Theater and San Jose Rep, The Color Purple(Celie), and Ragtime(Sarah's Friend).  She has also performed with the Fort Worth Opera Chorus in numerous productions.  She received her training as a vocal performance major at Oklahoma City University. Words alone cannot express Tiffany's gratitude, so she offers the gift of song as her thanks. Twitter: @iamtiffanymann

GRIFFIN MATTHEWS (Griffin, Co-Author) graduated from Carnegie Mellon University, in his hometown of Pittsburgh, PA. Griffin co-wrote Invisible Thread (Richard Rodgers Award, Harold Adamson Award, and Dean Kay Award). He is working on a commission for Center Theatre Group in Los Angeles to write a new docu-musical about the ever-changing face of the American family. He's directed several readings of the new musical Lempicka for Yale Rep and New Dramatists and has choreographed pieces at Vassar College, Lincoln Center (NYC), Warner Theater (DC), and in Tokyo. Acting credits include New York/Regional: Best of Both Worlds, 1776, Don’t Bother Me, I Can’t Cope, Once On This Island. Television: “Law & Order: SVU” (recurring), “Happy Valley” (NBC Pilot), “The Carrie Diaries" (recurring),“The Mentalist,” “Suburgatory,” “Weeds,” “90210,” “Law and Order: LA,” “Cashmere Mafia,” “Numb3rs.” Starring in the upcoming Indie horror, "Screamers." Invisible Thread is based on his organization UgandaProject, which he founded in 2005. Twitter: @GriffinsThread

JEREMY POPE (Griffin). Drama League nominee for his lead role as "Pharus" in Choir Boy by Tarell Alvin McCraney(Manhattan Theatre Club). Pope reprised his role at the Alliance Theater and the Geffen Playhouse, all under the direction of Trip Cullman. National Tours include SkippyJon Jones (Theatreworks USA). He is a graduate of The American Musical & Dramatic Academy. Jeremy-Pope.com

JAMARD RICHARDSON (Ensemble) is beyond grateful to continue to share this story with the world. Broadway Credits:The Book of Mormon. Regional Favorites: Witness Uganda,Waitress (reading), The Little Mermaid, Tarzan, Joseph…, Hairspray, Ragtime, and Xanadu. Originally from Dayton, Ohio and is a proud alum of The University of Oklahoma. BOOMER!! Thanks to God, The Mine, Stephen Kopel, Matt & Griff, this phenomenal Cast & Crew, OU13, Mom, Dad & Morgynne! Much love to you all! Matthew 19:26. Follow me @jamardrich

NICOLETTE ROBINSON (Eden). Off-Broadway: Brooklynite (Vineyard Theatre). Regional: Witness Uganda (A.R.T.), A Little More Alive (Barrington Stage Company). TV: Plays Jane on Showtime’s Golden Globe Award winning series “The Affair,” also “Hart of Dixie,” “Unforgettable,” “Perfect Couples,” “Cold Case.” Princess Grace Award Winner for Theater and a graduate of UCLA’s School of Theater, Film, & Television. Twitter/Instagram: @NicoletteKloe.

ADEOLA ROLE (Joy) is thrilled to be making her Off-Broadway debut as "Joy" in Invisible Thread. Role originated the part of Joy in the world premiere, formerly known as Witness Uganda, at the American Repertory Theater. Role is also known for playing Susan Stewart in the American Repertory Theater's production of Taylor Mac's Liliy's Revenge. The Nigerian-born actress received her BA in Performance Theory with an emphasis on "Postmodern Blackness" from UC Berkeley, and an MFA in Acting from A.R.T/M.X.A.T at Harvard University. Role wishes to thank her beloved Mother and Sister for loving her, teaching her, and carrying her to this very moment.

CONOR RYAN(Ryan Standby) was last seen playing Jean-Michel in the Goodspeed Opera House’s production of La Cage Aux Folles. He starred opposite Kate Baldwin in the Off-Broadway revival of John and Jen and has also recently been seen on Broadway in Cinderella and in the Public Theatre's production of The Fortress Of Solitude. Training: BFA University of Michigan, Walnut Hill School for the Arts. Many thanks to all of his teachers throughout the years, his family and friends, 2nd Stage, Katie and Miguel, Becca and Laura, and CESD. Twitter: @conorrrryan, IG:chakaconor. Everything is for Mom.

JAMAR WILLIAMS (Ibrahim). Off-Broadway Debut. NY:Broken Window Theory dir. Michele Shay (Nuyorican). Regional: Witness Uganda (A.R.T); Hairspray, The Piano Lesson (Santa Rosa Rep). Tours: Theatre Works USA.  TV: 40th Anniversary Oklahoma! (dir. Terrance Mann), Much Ado About Nothing (PBS). Workshops/Readings: Witness Uganda (A.R.T.), Kill Floor (LCT3), Choir Boy (Manhattan Theatre Club), West Village Swing (screen play by Vincent Mignatti). Graduate from The University of North Carolina School of the Arts. Special thanks to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, My loving parents and sisters, Matt and Griff, Diane Paulus, Mickey Nelson, and Nicolosi & Co. This show is dedicated to the eternal memory of my Dad; thank you for guiding me, I will love you forever! Twitter: @mjamarwilliams

CREATIVE TEAM

MATT GOULD (Co-Author, Music Director, Orchestrations, Vocal Arrangements) is a recipient of the Richard Rodgers Award (2012 and 2014), The Jonathan Larson Award, and ASCAP’s Dean Kay and Harold Adamson Awards.  His musical Invisible Thread(f/k/a Witness Uganda) had its world premiere at the American Repertory Theater under the direction of Tony Winner Diane Paulus.  His upcoming original works include The Family Project for LA’s Center Theatre Group, and Lempicka (Yale Rep Commission).  He wrote Twilight in Manchego (Directed by Tony Winner Billy Porter) for the NYMF, has written and arranged music for Playwrights Horizons and translated, adapted and directed Romeo and Juliet in Pulaar (Mauritania, West Africa.)  Often collaborating with co-writer Griffin Matthews, Matt has performed around the world including Uganda, Mauritania, Japan, South Africa, and across the US including the NY Stock Exchange, Lincoln Center, Summit Series and Royce Hall. A graduate of Boston University’s College of Fine Arts, Matt is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer at schools and Universities.  He is the co-director of UgandaProject.

GRIFFIN MATTHEWS (Griffin, Co-Author) graduated from Carnegie Mellon University, in his hometown of Pittsburgh, PA. Griffin co-wrote Invisible Thread (Richard Rodgers Award, Harold Adamson Award, and Dean Kay Award). He is working on a commission for Center Theatre Group in Los Angeles to write a new docu-musical about the ever-changing face of the American family. He's directed several readings of the new musical Lempicka for Yale Rep and New Dramatists and has choreographed pieces at Vassar College, Lincoln Center (NYC), Warner Theater (DC), and in Tokyo. Acting credits include New York/Regional: Best of Both Worlds, 1776, Don’t Bother Me, I Can’t Cope, Once On This Island. Television: “Law & Order: SVU” (recurring), “Happy Valley” (NBC Pilot), “The Carrie Diaries" (recurring),“The Mentalist,” “Suburgatory,” “Weeds,” “90210,” “Law and Order: LA,” “Cashmere Mafia,” “Numb3rs.” Starring in the upcoming Indie horror, "Screamers." Invisible Thread is based on his organization UgandaProject, which he founded in 2005. Twitter: @GriffinsThread

DIANE PAULUS (Director) is the Artistic Director of the American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) at Harvard University. Broadway: A.R.T.’s productions of Pippin (Tony Award Best Direction, Best Revival), Finding Neverland, The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess(Tony Award Best Revival); The Public Theater’s Hair (Tony Award Best Revival). Also at A.R.T.: Waitress (music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles), Crossing (a new opera by Matt Aucoin), Prometheus Bound (music by Serj Tankian, book and lyrics by Steven Sater), Tod Machover’s Death and the Powers: The Robots’ Opera, The Donkey Show, Best of Both Worlds, Johnny Baseball. Other: Cirque du Soleil’s Amaluna currently on tour in Paris; The Magic Flute (Canadian Opera Company); Don Giovanni, Cosi Fan Tutte, Marriage of Figaro, Turn of the Screw, and the Monteverdi trilogy (Chicago Opera Theater and BAM). Diane is a Professor of the Practice in Theater in Harvard University’s English Department and was selected as one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2014.