Matt Whalen / Tuesday, August 8, 2023 / Categories: Coming Soon, Past Shows

West Side Story

Event date: 7/19/2024 7:30 PM - 8/4/2024 5:00 PM Export event

July 19-August 4 2024

Book by: Arthur Laurents
Music by: Leonard Bernstein
Lyrics by: Stephen Sondheim
Based on a Concept of Jerome Robbins
Based on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet
Orignally Produced on Broadway by Robert E. Griffith and Harold S. Prince
By Arrangement with Roger L. Stevens

 

Directed and Scenic Designed by: Mike Frale
Music Directed by: Kitty Karn
Choreographed by: Maddie Shelton
Fight Choreography by: Andrew Trygstad
Stage Manager: Bre Sakalis
Technical Director/Master Carpenters: Timothy Lieb, Jeff Schmela
Costume Designer: Kathleen Musselman
Lighting Designer: Tyler Dawson
Production Manager: Sam Dempsey
Sound Design: Jeremy Lyon

Scenic Painter: Barry R. Norton
Run Crew: Sam Fan
Sound Assistant: Kitty Heath
Produced by: Nicole Grueneberg and Matt Whalen

 

From the first notes to the final breath, West Side Story is one of the most memorable musicals and greatest love stories of all time. Arthur Laurents' book remains as powerful, poignant and timely as ever. The score by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim are widely regarded as among the best ever written. The world's greatest love story takes to the streets in this landmark Broadway musical that is one of the theatre's finest accomplishments.

Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet is transported to modern-day New York City as two young, idealistic lovers find themselves caught between warring street gangs, the "American" Jets and the Puerto Rican Sharks. Their struggle to survive in a world of hate, violence and prejudice is one of the most innovative, heart-wrenching and relevant musical dramas of our time.

 

THE CAST

Brian A. Cummins (Tony)  Brian A. Cummins is thrilled to be making his Summer Place Theatre debut, alongside this amazing cast and crew. Brian is a sophomore, pursuing his BFA in Musical Theatre, at Western Connecticut State University. Some of his previous roles include: Frank Jr (Catch Me If You Can), Percy Jackson (The Lightning Thief), and Nicky (Avenue Q). Brian is excited to now take one of his dream roles in this classic broadway musical. Brian would like to thank his family and friends for their ongoing support. This and every performance is dedicated to Ava.

Amelia Chavez (Maria) Amelia is incredibly excited to make her debut at SummerPlace Theatre! Amelia is a 25 yr. old resident of Chicago, IL. Graduating from Monmouth College with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre, she currently is working full-time and participates in community theatre in her spare time. Previous credits include: ORDINARY DAYS (Genesius Guild), THE LITTLE MERMAID (Spotlight Arts Collective), THE ADDAMS FAMILY (The Drama Group), JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT (Spotlight Arts Collective) and IN THE HEIGHTS (The Drama Group). Amelia couldn’t be more excited to perform with such a talented cast and share Maria’s story with an audience. She thanks her family and friends for always supporting her and her busy schedule. “Continue to love one another just as Maria would have and enjoy the show!”

John H. Trygstad (Riff) John is incredibly excited to revive his role as Riff and hopes you enjoy the show! John has been acting for the better part of 17 years, and has been a musician since he could tap his toes! Aside from singing and dancing, John plays the bass, guitar, piano, and a few other instruments. He is also an avid athlete, primarily in martial arts. He practices Historical European Martial Arts and is internationally ranked in the art of Malay Silat. He has deeply enjoyed the experience of working with the production crew and every single member of the cast. To any of the cast who reads this, John would like to thank you for being so welcoming and kind. John would like to extend a special thanks to his mother and father, his brother Andrew, and especially his partner Sarah and their puppy Biscuit. Without their support he wouldn't be capable of achieving everything he has and will.

Henry Cartaya (Bernardo) is incredibly happy to be apart of this awesome community again at Summer Place Theatre and the company of West Side Story. Having recently graduated with a BFA in Music Theatre from Illinois Wesleyan University, he is very grateful to be able to present his authentic self and to be apart of such a welcoming cast. Special thanks to Mom, Dad, and Harry! LETS GO SHARKS!!! Enjoy the show!

Ericka Pugliese (Anita) Ericka is thrilled to be making her Summer Place Debut! She is a rising junior at the University of Texas at Austin, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Dance. She recently made her regional theatre debut at the Alchemy Theatre in Austin in a production of “The Baker’s Wife.” Some of her favorite credits include Velma Kelly in Chicago, Hope Cladwell in Urinetown, and Meg March in Little Women. She would like to thank her parents and her three older siblings for always supporting her, and tolerating her singing around the house. She hopes you enjoy this iconic show!

Joseph M. Fatigante (Action/Dance Captain) is elated to be back with Summer Place Theatre this summer! Joseph is a recent graduate from Illinois State University with a bachelor’s degree in Middle Level Education with endorsements in Math & Science; he is now a 7th Grade Math Teacher. Previous credits include: THE ADDAMS FAMILY (William Street Rep), ELF (Community Players Theatre), NEWSIES (Summer Place Theatre), THE LITTLE MERMAID (Spotlight Arts Collective), and A CHORUS LINE (Theatre on the Hill). “I would like to thank my family and friends for supporting me in everything I do. Their support never goes unnoticed!

Preetish Chakraborty (Chino, Bernardo U/S) is so excited to be returning to the Summer Place stage for a second year! He is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Missouri State University. Recent credits include: Newsies (SPT), Ruddigore (MSU), and Massenet’s Cendrillon (MSU). He wants to thank his parents for their constant unwavering support in every step. Take time to learn something new about yourself, and always remember: love conquers all.

Rod Kelly (Lt. Schrank/Gladhand) Rod is making his first appearance at SPT and is proud to be part of this staging of this groundbreaking musical. He last appeared on stage as Fezziwig in "A Christmas Carol: The Musical" (Wheaton Drama, 2022.) Among his favorite roles are The Proprietor ("Assassins" - Geneva Underground Playhouse), Harry ("Company" - Wheaton Drama) and Emperor Joseph II ("Amadeus" - Wheaton Drama.) When not on stage Rod enjoys collaborating with local theaters as a set designer, most recently at Wheaton Drama for this season's productions of "Titanic: The Musical" and "Young Frankenstein, The Musical."
He thanks his wife for allowing him to dress-up and pretend.

Rick Love (Officer Krupke) Rick is happily continuing a run with Summer Place, this time back in the bad guys gang. Was seen last year telling Ghost Stories in the Park and in The Pajama Game (Charlie/Max), and previously in Sound of Music (Herr Zeller), A Christmas Carol - A 1940’s Radio Show, Mamma Mia! (Harry Bright), and Footloose (Rev Shaw). He has also appeared in several Kidz Kabaret / Center Stage and Magical Starlight productions. Other favorite roles include Mr Bumble (Oliver), Grandpa Joe (Willy Wonka), and Geppetto (My Son Pinocchio). He moonlights as Santa.

Reed Pence (Doc) first appeared at Summer Place as a high schooler in the ensemble of 1973’s My Fair Lady. Two years ago he returned to our stage as Uncle Max in The Sound of Music, and last summer he was seen here as Governor Roosevelt (and understudy for Joseph Pulitzer) in NEWSIES. Other favorite roles include Phantom in Phantom of the Opera and Jean Valjean in Les Miserables, both with the West Suburban Symphony’s Fusion concert series. Over the last decade he has also performed in the ensembles of nearly a dozen productions with Main Street Opera and DuPage Opera Theatre. In real life, Reed is retired after 45 years as a broadcast journalist.

Gabriel Bell  (Baby John) Gabe is pleased to announce that this is his second production at Summerplace Theater. His first was "Newsies" last year, where he played Ike/Bill. He is incredibly proud and thankful to be a part of this incredible team once again and even more grateful to be able to perform in this production with such an amazing talented creative cast that is supportive and fun. Gabe is also super grateful for his wonderful family, friends, and girlfriend, who always push him to pursue his talents. Aswell as for always putting with his constant annoying outbursts of singing and dancing at any time of the day. Thank you all, and I hope you have just as an amazing of a time experiencing our show as we did putting it on for you.

Luke Brock (Big Deal, Tony u/s) Luke is very excited to make his Summer Place debut in West Side Story (one of his dream shows!) Luke is going to be a Junior at Wheaton Academy, and enjoys performing in their Fine Arts Department. His favorite past roles include Jack in "Newsies", Flounder in "The Little Mermaid", and Kenickie in "Greece". He would like to thank his family and friends for always supporting him. Instagram: luke.brock1

Zachary Coleman Bulatek (Anxious) “The most Polish Shark you’ll ever meet” Zachary is honored to make his debut at summer place theater! When he is not rehearsing he works at Wasco Nursery and Garden Center. Recently he has pursued growing in dance (Ballet, Waltz, Hip-Hop and more) while also traveling and learning Spanish first hand in Puerto Rico spending 2 months there this winter. He is thankful for all the wonderful people he met in P.R who show love and support. He is also thankful to Christ, his family, his friends and many advisors who helped progress him to where he is today. His recent roles include; Mr. Shellhammer (Miracle on 34th Street), Jack Scott (High School Musical 2) Lovelorn Robin-Hood (Trials of Robin-hood) Rapunzel’s Prince (Into the Woods), originating the character of Raul and Ella’s father (Prince of my Heart 2023), assistant directing, acting & assisting with costuming (Prince of My Heart 2024). Thank you for coming!
Headshot by Saltlightcity Photography.

Amanda Cima (Rosalia) is thrilled to be playing Rosalia in Summer Place Theatre’s production of West Side Story. Amanda just graduated high school and is studying Music Production and Engineering at Berklee College of Music next fall. She has always loved theatre growing up and has been in various productions, playing a Delta Nu in Legally Blonde, an Angel in Let it Be Christmas, Denise in The Play That Goes Wrong, and more! She is so grateful for the amazing company of West Side Story and hopes you stay cool through this show. Instagram: @kaziaan Amanda

Jenna Cima (Paulene) Jenna is a student at College of DuPage, pursuing a career as an actress and model. This is her first Summer Place Theater production. Some of her favorite productions include The Lion King, Bye Bye Birdie, and Arsenic and Old Lace..

Caspian Colbert (Anybodys) is excited to join Summer Place for the first time bringing the part of Anybodys to life! Recently, Caspian has had the opportunity to play John Jasper in The Mystery of Edwin Drood (KVTA), Annas in Jesus Christ Superstar (KVTA), Prof. Marvel/Wizard of Oz in the Wizard of Oz (Joliet Drama Guild), The Man/Gordon in Rent (Theatre on the Hill), and Hawking Clam/Teacher in Peter and the Starcatcher (KVTA). Caspian had this to say, “I am so excited to get to join such a talented cast, portraying a role I’ve wanted to play since I was a kid! I want to thank my family for always supporting me, and my found family for always pushing me to go out of my comfort zone! I wouldn’t be here without them.”

Patrick Doorhy (A-Rab)  Patrick is thrilled to be in Summer Place Theater’s production of West Side Story. This is Patrick’s first show at Summer Place and is very appreciative of the welcoming atmosphere provided by the cast and crew. Patrick has recently been seen on stage as Bill Austen, in Mamma Mia at Lincoln-Way Central High school and as Javert, in Les Miserable at Street of Dreams theater. Patrick would like to thank his friends and family and the wonderful cast and directing crew of West Side Story for such a wonderful production.

Lexi Grueneberg (Clarice)  Lexi is excited to return to the Summer Place stage after 8 years, when she performed as Amaryllis in The Music Man! She is a recent high school graduate and is happy to be pursuing technical theater in the fall. Some favorite roles include Pumbaa (Lion King), Lily (Annie), and Security Guard (SpongeBob). Much love to her family, friends, and the rest of the cast and crew. 1 Timothy 4:12

Nikki Harris (Pepe)  Nikki is delighted to be joining Summer Place for West Side Story! For nearly two decades, Nikki has been involved in the theatrical world, primarily as an actor, but at this point has dabbled in a little of anything and everything. This is in fact the second time that Nikki has been a part of West Side Story (and as a Shark once again, just one who has some lines this time!) and their joyous return to performing in a musical for the first time in over a decade. They are honored to have this show be their first production with Summer Place and they have had nothing but a wonderful experience and hope to join them for many more shows in the future. Performing is one of the greatest loves in Nikki's life, and they would like to thank their loved ones for their continuous and enthusiastic support, and the incredibly talented cast and crew for making this show possible!

Sarah Hunt (Velma) Sarah is excited to be making her Summer Place Theater debut in West Side Story this summer. A self proclaimed musical enthusiast, she is thrilled to be back on the stage after a time off. She hopes you enjoy the show as much as she has enjoyed performing in it. Special thanks to God and her husband who has been a huge support.

Jamie Kwon ( Estella and Maria U/S)  Jamie is super duper excited to be making her Summer Place debut in this fantastic show! She is about to be a senior at Naperville Central Highschool and you may have seen her as Eponine in Centrals production of Les Miserables or Paulette in Legally Blonde. Next year she plans on continuing her musical theatre journey into college. She'd like to thank Mike, Maddie, and Kitty for giving her this opportunity to learn and grow. She's loved every second working with this fantastic cast and hopes you love the show as much as she does!

Gabriella Longo ( Consuela)  is thrilled to be in one of her favorite musicals with Summer Place Theatre. Currently, Gabriella is a junior majoring in Lyric Theatre at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. At the university, she takes voice lessons with Nathan Gunn. Previously, she sang in the world premiere of “Black Square,” workshopped “Met: The Musical” and sang in Krannert Center’s annual “Carnaval!” concert. This upcoming season, she will be an ensemble member in Lyric Theatre @ Illinois’s “Oklahoma!” Outside of theatre, she enjoys walking her three Maltese dogs! She’d like to thank her family for all their love and support.

Erin Love (Francisca) Erin is excited to be participating in her first ever production with Summer Place Theatre. This show will mark the beginning of her journey with performing and theatre. She is extremely grateful to have the opportunity to experience working with such a talented cast and team.

Lia Mulcahy (Minnie)  Lia is thrilled to return to the Summer Place stage following Newsies last summer! She is so exctied for another summer of dancing with her favorite people! Off stage, Lia is an elementary special education teacher. She would like to thank her husband, family and friends for their support. She has truly treasured the experience of bringing this iconic show to life with an amazing cast and crew.

Kaitlin Taylor (Graziella)  Kaitlin is thrilled to be back on stage and making her debut with Summer Place Theater. Performing in 25 musicals and being a competitive dancer for 15 years, Kaitlin is excited to get back on stage after a multiple-year break! Kaitlin graduated from Purdue University in 2023 with a Psychological Science and Organizational Leadership degree. Boiler up!! She would love to give a huge shoutout to the SB24 cast, friends, family, and her students for pushing her to get back into performing on stage. Enjoy the show!!

Aiden Torres (Indio, Chino u/s)  This is Aiden's first show with Summer Place Theatre! Before this production, Aiden had been involved with several plays and musicals, many of which were at Fenton High School. Aiden is currently a college student at the College of DuPage studying music and he enjoys riding motorcycles!

Zach Ulmer (Snowboy/Riff Understudy/Fight Captain)  Zach Ulmer is thrilled to be a part of West Side Story with such an amazing group of people. Ulmer is currently studying Mechanical Engineering and Theatre at St. Ambrose University, and has previously been seen in [Title of Show], Secret in the Wings, and originated the role of Spaceworm Larry in “Spaceworms!” with Haus of Ruckus. He would like to thank his family for their support and his amazing Supper Place family who never fail to bring a smile to his face. Thank you for coming, and enjoy the show!

ARTISTIC AND PRODUCTION STAFF

Mike Frale (Director/Scenic Designer)Mike is thrilled to be returning to Summer Place Theatre for his second season after directing their production of Newsies last year and designing the set for All Shook Up. He is a graduate of Lewis University. Select directing credits include The Little Mermaid (Spotlight Arts Collective), Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella (Theatre 121), This Is Our Youth (Riverfront Playhouse) and The Guys (Heritage Theatre Company). Some acting credits include Ted in Peter and the Starcatcher and Peter in Company (both with Wheaton Drama). Upcoming projects include producing A Christmas Story and producing and assistant directing Groundhog Day, both with Theatre 121. Mike is a member of the Board of Directors of Theatre 121 as well as an associate member of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society. www.mikefrale.com

Kitty Karn (Music Director) Kitty Karn (she/her) is a singer/actor and voice teacher who has musically and/or vocally directed over 30 shows at the community, college and professional level since 2002. She moved to the area in 2019 after 15 years as Professor of Musical Theatre/Voice at Western Illinois University. Currently, Kitty is an Adjunct Professor of Voice at University of Illinois at Chicago as well as the Music Director for Unity of Fox Valley in Batavia. As a performer, some of her favorite roles include Mrs. Potts in Beauty and the Beast, Chaperone in ‘The Drowsy Chaperone’, Marmee in ‘Little Women’, Florence Foster Jenkins in ‘Souvenir’ and Phoebe in ‘The Yeomen of the Guard’. www.kittykarn.com

Maddie Shelton (Choreographer) "Maddie Shelton (choreographer) is a Mechanical Engineer in Themed Entertainment who loves to bust a move. She has been dancing since she was 2 years old and choreographing for show choirs, dance teams, and musicals since she was 16. Her recent experiences include 
Choreographer for The Little Mermaid (Spotlight Arts Collective), Newsies Dance Captain (Summer Place Theatre), and Teacher/Choreographer (Turning Pointe Academy). Maddie would like to thank her stellar family / friends, wonderful boyfriend, and beautiful cat for all their support. "

Andrew Trygstad (Fight Choreographer) Andrew Trygstad has been a long time participant in Summer Place Theatre projects over many years, and is thrilled to come back to a show so near and dear to his heart. He holds a Bachelors Degree in Acting from Columbia College, and has been a fight choreographer/director for more than a decade in the suburban Chicago theatre scene. Previous credits you may recognize his work in include Shakespeare in Love (Bard in the Burbs), Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime (Wheaton Drama), She Kills Monsters (Matea Valley High School), and Seven Keys to Baldpate (Wheaton Drama).  Thank you to this exceptional cast and crew, to all of you for supporting live theatre, most importantly to Andrea and Luca, for lending their husband/dad out to be a part of this amazing production.

Bre Sakalis (Stage Manager) Bre is excited to return to Summer Place Theatre for her third year. She previously helped on set crew for Sound of Music and Newsies, and was the Assistant Stage Manager for Newsies. Bre is a graduate from Western Illinois University where she got her BA in Technical Theatre, focusing on Stage Management and Audio. She has been working in theatre for 10 years now, in various positions, including: run crew, lighting crew, costume construction, set construction, Paint Charge, Audio Engineer and Designer, Stage Manager, Mentor, Assistant Technical Director, and Video Designer. When Bre isn't working on shows, she can be found baking or crafting something.

Madalyn Quitter (Assistant Stage Manager) "Madalyn is very excited to be back for her second season with Summer Place. Previous stage management credits include Newsies (Summer Place), One Act Play Festival (Columbia College Chicago), and The Amateurs (Columbia College Chicago). She hopes you enjoy the show!
IG: @stagemanager.maddy

Kathy Musselman (Costume Designer) Kathy is excited to be costuming her third show for Summer Place. She costumed last year's production of Newsies, as well as this summer's production of All Shook Up. Kathy earned her degree in Musical Theatre at North Central College, where she also worked as a scenic designer (The Producers, Annie, Music Man) and costumer (Addams Family). She has also worked with Magical Starlight Theater costuming their productions of A Little Mermaid and Matilda. Kathy would like to thank her family and friends for always being supportive of her artistic endeavors. 

Jeff Schmela (Technical Director) After 20+ years of set design and building  (mostly at Metea Valley High School) this is my 1st time joining SPT. This is a super group!! Enjoy the show!! 

Nicole Grueneberg (Co-Producer) Nicole Grueneberg is delighted to be co-producing West Side Story with Summer Place Theatre. She also serves as the Treasurer of the Board of Directors, and has previously performed with Summer Place in The Music Man (2016) and The Pajama Game (2023). In addition to her involvement with Summer Place, her recent theater endeavors have mostly included serving as a director, choreographer or class teacher for local theater companies. Outside of serving in those roles and running her own business, she enjoys spending time with her family, especially serving on the tech team for her kids' musical theater productions.

Matt Whalen (Co-Producer) Matt is happy to be collaborating with such a great team on this production of “West Side Story”.  SPT audiences may remember him as Captain Von Trapp in The Sound of Music, Bill Austin in Mamma Mia, or Fred/Petruchio in Kiss Me Kate. He previously co-produced Newsies, and The Secret Garden, and directed our productions of Grease and You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown. He thanks the cast, crew and production staff for their hard work, talent and passion, his family and friends, his wife Lauren and their Lab/Aussie mix, Finn.

West Side Story
Is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).
All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.
www.mtishows.com