Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center 701 South Main Street Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74012 918.259.5778 | BROKENARROWPAC.COM Owned and operated by Broken Arrow Public Schools Independent School District No. 3 Dr. Jarod Mendenhall, Superintendent PERFORMING ARTS CENTER STAFF Mark Frie Executive Director, Performing Arts Center mark@brokenarrowpac.com
welcome As we celebrate our sixth Spotlight Series season, I can’t help but recall 2009. It was an exciting time for Broken Arrow and its school district when the Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center opened its doors to welcome a variety of shows to its stage, including renowned Broadway shows, musicians and students of Broken Arrow Public Schools. Then I fast forward to where we are today. The BAPAC has hosted hundreds of school events, presented numerous professional shows and held countless community events. I’m certain the success of this facility wouldn’t be possible without the commitment from BAPS Superintendent Dr. Jarod Mendenhall, Broken Arrow’s administration and school board members, city leaders, corporate sponsors and you, the patron. I am thankful for your dedication and enthusiasm for what we do here at the BAPAC. Your support in our foundational years laid the groundwork for future generations to be able to enjoy entertainment at the highest level. This season has definitely been one to remember. Kristin Chenoweth, our theatre’s namesake and hometown favorite, recorded an unprecedented live show for PBS during two fun-filled evenings. Vince Gill anchored The Time Jumpers in an unforgettable showing, while we hosted not one but THREE big shows in the month of December 2014. Be looking in April as we announce our 2015-2016 Spotlight Series Season. You won’t want to miss it! Thank you for choosing to spend your evening with us. We hope you’ll enjoy tonight’s show. See you around the theatre,
Mark Frie Executive Director Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center Kristin Chenoweth Theatre
Kim Vento Events Director kim@brokenarrowpac.com Kate Pike Box Office/Patron Relations kate@brokenarrowpac.com Christina Dixon Communications/Community Relations Coordinator christina@brokenarrowpac.com Scott Heberling Technical Director scott@brokenarrowpac.com Adam J. Foreman Marketing/Graphic Artist/Publications Specialist adam@brokenarrowpac.com CENTERSTAGE is the official program of the Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center. All contents herein are copyrighted and are the sole property of the PAC. For advertising and editorial content, contact the Assistant to the Executive Director at 918.259.5754. Broken Arrow Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, veteran status, marital status or age in its employment, programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. Broken Arrow Public Schools will take all necessary steps to ensure that each school and work place in the District is free from unlawful discrimination or harassment based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status or age. Inquiries concerning non-discrimination can also be made to the United States Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights. BAPAC FOUNDATION BOARD Heather Bryson Melinda Clonts LaTonya Cundiff Mark Frie Greg Graham Kelley Rash Lynda Wingo
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BAPAC gives back to community, schools “Bringing the world to Broken Arrow” is the mission of the Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center (BAPAC). Through its programs and initiatives, the BAPAC provides educational outreach opportunities for Broken Arrow Public Schools (BAPS) students and artistic enrichment for the Broken Arrow community. “Our top priority is to serve the students and staff of Broken Arrow, but we also welcome the community to utilize the facility,” said Dr. Jarod Mendenhall, Superintendent for Broken Arrow Public Schools. “Not many other performing arts venues can lay claim to being such a valuable asset for a wide variety of patrons.” Since BAPS opened the facility in 2009, the BAPAC remains the official location for student assemblies, fine arts productions, concerts and staff seminars. Through its Spotlight Series, the BAPAC also welcomes talented performers such as Amy Grant and serves as the destination for national touring productions like “Memphis.” Additionally, the facility hosts many events for community partners such as the Broken Arrow police and fire departments, reinforcing the bridge between the community and its schools. It is also available for rental to outside organizations, providing a top notch venue for recitals, conferences and performances. “For five years now, we’ve served as a partner in the cultural and economic liveliness of Broken Arrow,” said Mark Frie, Executive Director of the BAPAC. “With our professional Spotlight Series shows, community facility rentals and nearly 300 school-related events bringing
more than 70,000 patrons through the doors each year, we hope to continually increase traffic for surrounding businesses, hotels and restaurants, making good on our promise to be the cornerstone of the arts and entertainment district.” Broken Arrow Chamber of Commerce President Wes Smithwick agrees. “Quality of life is a primary focus for the Broken Arrow Chamber,” Smithwick said. “The Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center is a place for entertainment and education, both of which enrich the community by providing a diverse arts experience in a one-of-a-kind venue. As the Rose District continues to grow and expand, the BAPAC will be vital to the entertainment happening in the area.” Located in the heart of downtown Broken Arrow, the BAPAC has served as the foundation for the developing Rose District. “The Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center is a critical element in positioning the Rose District as an arts and entertainment destination,” said Lisa Frein, Director of Downtown Development for Broken Arrow Economic Development Corporation. “A city our size deserves a world-class performing arts center like the BAPAC, and we’re glad the city and schools had the foresight to make it a priority years ago.” Attracting nationally renowned artists to Broken Arrow provides district students with educational opportunities through events such as cast talkbacks and master classes.
(Left) Cast and crew from “In The Heights” talk to students from BAPS drama after a show. (Center) Students from the inaugural Master Class take a bow with mentor Kristin Chenoweth. (Right) Kevin Spencer with “Spencers: Theatre of Illusion” visits Rhoades Elementary with his “Healing Is Magic” program, geared towards helping physicallychallenged students.
“With each performer we bring to Broken Arrow, we find opportunities for students to connect with him or her,” Frie said. “We hope to inspire our own students to pursue their own dreams of becoming a world class performer one day.” Broken Arrow students have worked with legendary trumpeter Wynton Marsalis, learned about life on the road from “Bring It On: The Musical” cast members, tap danced with troupe Tap Dogs and sang with Emmywinning Kristin Chenoweth. In 2010, illusionist Kevin Spencer visited students with autism for one week, teaching them magic tricks and helping build motor skills. The BAPAC also provides opportunities for unique partnerships with performing artists. In 2013, Kristin Chenoweth, a 1986 Broken Arrow High School alumna, committed her philanthropy efforts to support fine arts and community relations in her hometown, establishing the Kristin Chenoweth Fund for Arts and Education. Chenoweth’s future endeavors include after-school and summer arts institutes, scholarship programs and more. More recently, Chenoweth held an educational master class, graciously lending her years of experience and expertise to the region’s most aspiring high school and college fine arts students. The event raised more than $35,000, helping nearly 200 BAPS students travel to New York City and perform at the famed Carnegie Hall. “The generosity Ms. Chenoweth has shown for our town, her alma mater and the BAPAC is such a gift
for our community,” Frie said. “Her passion for helping students pursue their love of the arts is immense, and we are grateful for her support.” Broken Arrow Public Schools continues to focus on opportunities to “bring the world to Broken Arrow” for the benefit of its students. “To see these renowned artists come to our performing arts center is wonderful but the real joy is to watch as they inspire and educate Broken Arrow students,” said Dr. Mendenhall. “Through the BAPAC and our top notch fine arts programs, we provide our students with experiences they might not otherwise have. That is the real purpose and value of the Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center – to open our students’ eyes to all that is possible.”
Arts In Education (By the Numbers 2013-2014) • Total No. of school events – 305 • No. of community events and facility rentals– 41 • No. of Spotlight Series and UPCLOSE events – 20 • No. of seats in theatre – 1,500 seats • Revenue from facility rentals – $20,500, directly benefiting Broken Arrow Public Schools • Attendance at BAPAC events – Approx. 70,000
THE UPCLOSE SERIES
Season concludes with two February shows Presented by Broken Arrow Arts and Humanities Council in cooperation with the BAPAC, the third season of UPCLOSE concludes in February with two unique shows. Prepare to feel the love as celebrated actor, songwriter and recording artist John Sawyer presents “Love Song: An Evening With John Sawyer” on Feb. 13. Classical pianist Eunju Chang closes out the series on Feb. 27. Each show begins at 7:30 p.m., and is held at the BAPAC in downtown Broken Arrow. John Sawyer is a singer, actor, dancer, songwriter and recording artist with more than 20 years of experience in the performing arts. He originated the role of Nathaniel Taylor in the Tony-award nominated Broadway production of “The Civil War,” while also landing roles in “Whistle Down The Wind,” “Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” and “Promises, Promises” opposite Kristin Chenoweth. John has worked with legendary performers as Liza Minelli, Burt Bacharach, Rosie O’Donnell and Linda Eder. His 2008 solo album “The Real Me”
is available on iTunes and features a duet with Grammy award-winning artist Debby Boone. Eunju Chang began her study of classical piano at age 4. After completing her Bachelor of Music degree at Kyung Hee University in Seoul, South Korea she moved to Rome and began her graduate studies at the Pescara Conservatorium. She completed the Pescara 10-year diploma program for music and piano studies in less than eight years. While at Pescara, she studied under Elisabetta Capurso, Marcella Crudeli and Maestosi Lear. Eunju performed as a soloist in many Asian and European concert venues, including Aldo Diccolini, Piazza Campitelli and Sala delle Conferenze. She also performed with the Saint Cross Philharmonic, Kielce, Poland and the Korean Philharmonic Orchestra among others. Tickets for each show are $20 plus a facility fee and are available online at brokenarrowpac.com or at the BAPAC Box Office located at 701 South Main in downtown Broken Arrow or by phone at 918-2595778.
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PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF JILL SOLOMON PHOTOGRAPHY
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henoweth records history-making for television special, live album “This is the most nervous that I’ve ever been, because this is my family. I’m looking out at familiar faces.” Amidst roars of applause, energetic whistles and non-stop cheering, Broken Arrow native Kristin Chenoweth took the stage in her namesake theatre last August, delivering an unforgettable trip down memory lane. Filmed for the 2014 PBS Arts Fall Festival that aired the night after Thanksgiving, “Kristin Chenoweth: Coming Home” featured the pint-sized Broadway star singing and storytelling her way through some of the most memorable musical moments of her 20-plus year career. “Tonight, as you know, has been a dream come true for me,” said Kristin. “Coming home, I can’t imagine doing it anywhere else.” Fans of the musical “Wicked” were treated to a unique version of “Popular” that Chenoweth described as “around the world with Glinda,” where she sang the lyrics in four different languages. Other great songs from musicals such as “Cabaret,” “The Phantom of the Opera,” “Les Miserables” and “The King And I” also dotted the set
list, each with a unique story from Kristin’s perspective. Paying tribute to her musical heroes, Chenoweth saluted such legends as Judy Garland during “Over The Rainbow,” composer Jerome Kern’s “Wishing You Were Here Somehow” and Dolly Parton on the hauntingly beautiful “Little Sparrow.” Even the late Madeline Kahn was given the comedic treatment with a masterful version of “I’m Tired” from Mel Brooks’ classics “Blazing Saddles.” “I needed a little help tonight singing some of these songs that I grew up singing, and I thought ‘Who could I ask to back me up? Maybe I’ll go to my old high school and see if the choir would do it’.” Dozens of Broken Arrow High School choir members were given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity when they joined Chenoweth for three numbers, including the Gospel number “Upon This Rock” and the show closer, “I Was Here,” a song Chenoweth describes as her personal anthem. Along with the two-night concert, Chenoweth was also honored with a mini-museum in the theatre foyer, featuring photos of the star from her television, movie and Broadway work as well as a prominent display of her Tony and Emmy awards.
National tour brings Broadway classic to town The national tour of “Anything Goes,” the new Broadway revival of Cole Porter’s timeless classic musical theatre masterpiece, is landing in Broken Arrow as part of the 2014-15 Spotlight Series at the Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center. Winner of the 2011 Tony Award® for Best Revival of a Musical, “Anything Goes” is under the direction of Sean McKnight and Jennifer Savelli. McKnight and Savelli recreate the original direction and choreography by Kathleen Marshall, who won the 2011 Tony Award® for Best Choreography. Based on Roundabout Theatre Company’s production, The New York Times calls it “a zesty new revival with knockout numbers and white-hot dancing” while the Associated Press exclaims that it’s, “so delightful, so delicious, so de-lovely!”
“Anything Goes,” the 1934 musical comedy about the lovers, liars and clowns on a transatlantic cruise, is what Variety calls “a daffy, shipshape romp!” When the S.S. American heads out to sea, etiquette and convention head out the portholes as two unlikely pairs set off on the course to true love… proving that sometimes destiny needs a little help from a crew of singing sailors, an exotic disguise and some good old-fashioned blackmail. The classic musical features music and lyrics by Cole Porter; original book by P.G. Wodehouse & Guy Bolton and Howard Lindsay & Russel Crouse; and new book by Timothy Crouse and John Weidman. The creative team includes music direction by Robbie Cowan with additional orchestrations by Bill Elliot, original scenic design by Derek McLane coordinated by James Kronzer, original costumes by Martin Pakledinaz coordinated by Jimm Halliday, lighting design by Anthony Pearson and sound design by David Bullard. Cole Porter’s roundup of nostalgic hits in the production include “You’re the Top,” “Friendship,” “I Get a Kick Out of You,” “It’s De-Lovely,” “Blow, Gabriel, Blow” and, of course “Anything Goes.” For more information, visit www. anythinggoesthemusical.com.
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It’s the Neverland you never knew…until now. Coming to the Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center on Feb. 24, “Peter And The Starcatcher” is the hit Broadway play that thrilled thousands of theatre-goers with its magic, mayhem and madcap comedy. Based on the best-selling novel by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson, this innovative and imaginative play acted out by a dozen actors who play more than 100 unforgettable characters. The prequel to Peter Pan takes the audience on a journey of swashbuckling pirates and zany antics to answer the century-old question: just how did Peter become the boy who never grew up? J.M. Barrie’s epic novel “Peter and Wendy” launched millions of imaginations with its tale of Lost Boys, deserted islands and the infamous Captain Hook. “Peter And The Starcatcher” introduce a slew of allnew characters, some with familiar back stories, others with wild new personas. Audiences of all ages are encouraged to experience the magic, but the musical
play is most enjoyable for ages 10 and up. Hailed by The New York Times as “the most exhilarating storytelling on Broadway in decades,” this comedy was also the winner of five Tony Awards® and was listed as one of the Top 10 Shows of the Year by New York Magazine and the New Yorker. Tickets for the show start at $20 and can be purchased at BROKENARROWPAC.COM or by phone at 918-259-5778.
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Former ‘Jersey Boys’ carve out new place in history as The Midtown Men They took Broadway by storm in one of the biggest hits of all-time! Now, The Midtown Men are bringing their magic to audiences everywhere, singing their favorite “Sixties Hits” from The Beatles, The Rascals, Motown, The Four Seasons and more! This sensational production reunites four stars from the original cast of Broadway’s “Jersey Boys.” Tony Award® winner Christian Hoff, Michael Longoria, Daniel Reichard and Tony Award® nominee J. Robert Spencer star in this one-of-akind concert experience celebrating the music that defined the ‘60s. These talented entertainers shared the Broadway stage for over a thousand performances in the mega-hit “Jersey Boys.” Now, as The Midtown Men, they have thrilled crowds on concert stages and symphony halls across the continent, and have
delighted television audiences with performances on “Good Morning America,” “Access Hollywood,” “Katie” and “The Chew.” Additionally, the Men collaborated with rock and roll icon Stevie Van Zandt on their first radio single, “All Alone On Christmas,” featuring Van Zandt and members of Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band. The group had the distinct honor of opening the National Tree Lighting Ceremony at the White House. Don’t miss this electrifying and soulful new production with its top-shelf choreography, incredible vocal performances and legendary onstage chemistry. Tickets for the show start at $20 and can be purchased at BROKENARROWPAC.COM or by phone at 918-259-5778. To learn more about the show, visit THEMIDTOWNMEN.COM.
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After a year of settling into its newly rebranded name, the Rose District continues blooming with brand-new restaurant and shopping options, giving patrons more reasons to spend their evenings congregating on Main Street, Broken Arrow, before and after Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center shows. “We have physically changed the landscape of Broken Arrow and mentally changed the way people think about us,” said Lisa Frein, director of downtown development. “Downtown Broken Arrow found a way to bring back Main Street with a renewed energy to attract and entertain individuals who want a vibrant atmosphere just as much as they want a good meal, unique retailers or to see a great show.” The Rose District designation was established in honor of Broken Arrow’s rich history, a time when residents beautified the city’s sparse prairie land with rose buses, trees and flowers. Since then, Main Street has stayed true to its heritage with a picturesque landscape, due to a $3.7 million improvement project completed late last year. The transformations include wider sidewalks and patios, decorative street lighting and an abundance of roses. During the fiscal year ending 2014, the City of Broken Arrow collected nearly $111,000 in new sales tax generated from Rose District businesses,
more than doubling what was collected in 2012 before the revitalization. That number is expected to increase as Broken Arrow celebrates new additions to the Rose District. The latest businesses include Pinot’s Palette, a “sip and paint” studio; In the Raw, the popular sushi restaurant known across Oklahoma; and The Rooftop, a 3,500 square-foot bar and grill with indoor and outdoor seating options. The Rooftop specializes in artisanal style pizzas and is owned by Jason Scarpa of Main Street Tavern, an alreadyestablished restaurant on Main Street. Also recently announced was the construction of a mixed-use facility called District @222. This fourstory project includes Andolini’s Pizzeria, which is the sole retail user on the first level, and two stories of apartments above. The development will be positioned between In the Raw and Spoke House Bicycles. Located at 222 S. Main St., this space is expected to open early 2015. “The Rose District continues to prove itself as a premier and ever-expanding arts and entertainment district, and now more than ever, I believe with its shops, restaurants and performing arts center, it is quickly becoming a destination location,” BAPAC Executive Director Mark Frie said. For a complete listing of downtown businesses and events, please visit www.rosedistrict.com.
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In The Raw
Specializing in sushi and other cuisine
In The Raw combines traditional and nouveau sushi with a variety of non-sushi entrees in a vibrant, hip atmosphere. With two additional locations in Tulsa, In The Raw has become synonymous with great food and a good time. Owner Amy Leet is nothing but enthusiastic about the store’s location. “We feel like we are part of a family being in the Rose District,” said Leet. “We have been welcomed with open arms and are so excited to watch continued growth downtown.” Opened in the fall of 2014, the restaurant continues to bring new and different clientele to the burgeoning district. “The decision to be in Broken Arrow was never a question.We are the tip of the spear for downtown Broken Arrow,” said Leet.
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Left to Right: Melinda Clonts, Mark Frie, LaTonya Cundiff, Heather Bryson, Lynda Wingo, Greg Graham and Kelley Rash
Corporate Sponsors Multi-Year Season Title Sponsor AVB Bank Presenting Sponsors Broken Arrow Convention And Visitors Bureau First National Bank Broken Arrow TTCU- The Credit Union Cox Communications
2014-2015 SPOTLIGHT SERIES Red Carpet Sponsor Miss Helen’s Private School Producing Sponsors AT&T Arvest Bank UniFirst Directing Sponsors Molded Products
St. John Broken Arrow Tulsa Bone & Joint Center
Patron of the Arts Sponsor The Arrow Group
Oklahoma’s Own News On 6
Partner In Education Magnum Construction
Hampton Inn- Broken Arrow
courtesy policy Thank you for joining us. We hope you enjoy your time at the Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center. Please be aware of the following audience courtesy and safety policies which help ensure a pleasant theatre-going experience for all: As part of the Sixth Season of the Spotlight Series, the Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center invites you to be a part of history with your own Chair Plaque! Plaques are a great way to remember loved ones and honor those in the community. They are also perfect birthday presents, everyday gifts, Class of Fill-in-the-Year designations, advertising for your business or anything you can think of! Plaques are only $100 and are readily available! For more information, contact the BAPAC staff at 918-259-5778 or visit the box office during intermission.
sponsorship opportunities Corporate sponsorships of the Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center Foundation are a vital part of the success of not only the BAPAC, but also its programs and future endeavors. If you and your business would like more information about becoming a sponsor, please contact Kim Vento at 918-259-5723 or email kim@brokenarrowpac.com.
• Please turn off all cellular and electronic devices or set them to silent mode. • There is no photography or recording of any kind, including cell phone camera use. • There is no food, drink or gum in the auditorium. You are more than welcome to enjoy your food or beverage in the lobby area before and after performances and during intermission. • The BAPAC is a tobacco- and alcohol-free facility. • It is the sole discretion of the House Manager to allow late entrance into a production. Please be advised to be early or on-time for feature performances. • Please be sensitive to your neighbors by refraining from talking or wearing heavy perfumes. • Children are most welcome at the BAPAC, but please note if a child becomes disruptive to other patrons, you may be asked to leave the auditorium. • If you have a hearing or sight issue, please see the House Manager for assistance.