Facebook   Twitter   YouTube   Instagram    Join Our E-Club

Event Calendar

THE WEDDING SINGER

Jul 24, 2015 - Aug 02, 2015

Benedum Center

ROCK THE BENEDUM CENTER '80s STYLE
Meet New Jersey’s favorite wedding singer/rock-star wannabe, Robbie Hart. He’s the life of the party, until his fiancée leaves him heartbroken at the altar. “Shot through the heart,” Robbie turns every wedding into a disaster. Enter Julia, a winsome waitress who wins his affection with her innocent charm. Robbie falls hard, only to learn that Julia is about to be married to a narcissistic Wall Street shark. Can he pull off the performance of a decade and win her heart, or will Julia be lost to him forever? Nominated for five Tony Awards®, THE WEDDING SINGER is packed with enough music and dancing to leave you longing once more for “the decade of excess!”

Some Adult Content

Cast

Jenna Ushkowitz

Jenna Ushkowitz (Julia Sullivan) is known for her role as Tina Cohen-Chang for five seasons of the 3-time Emmy nominated, FOX television series, “Glee.”  Most recently, Jenna served as the executive producer of “Twinsters,” a film documentary that premiered at SXSW in Austin. Last summer, Jenna starred in the Hollywood Bowl special production of Hair. Prior to becoming a Gleek, Jenna was on Broadway in the Tony Award®-winning production of Spring Awakening where she performed the roles of Ilse, Martha, Anna and Thea. Jenna released her first memoir, “Choosing Glee” in May 2013, which is a heartfelt, practical guide for teens on how to be your true self. Baseball fans may know Jenna as the first host of “Yankees on Deck,” which is a behind-the-scenes sports show geared towards young audiences on the YES! Network.  Jenna made her Broadway debut at the age of nine in the 1996 revival of The King and I, and performed with the original cast in an appearance at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade that year. Her television credits include “Sesame Street,” “Reading Rainbow,” “As the World Turns” and the pilot “The Imagination Movers” for Playhouse Disney. 

Brandon Andrus

Brandon Andrus (Glen Guglia) is stoked to perform at Pittsburgh CLO! Last time he was in Pittsburgh yinz might have seen him as Nick Massi in Jersey Boys at the Benedum Center. Other favorite roles: Terry/Buddy cover in Side Show (Broadway), Mr. Darcy in Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice: A Musical (World Premier), Curly in Oklahoma! (1st National Tour), Sonny in Xanadu, Chad in All Shook Up, King Arthur in Camelot. Proud member of AEA & SAG-AFTRA. Love to Deven, Mom and Dad. www.brandonandrus.com

Jackie Burns

Jackie Burns (Linda) Previously seen this season as Aldonza in Pittsburgh CLO's Man of La Mancha. Broadway: If/Then, Wicked, Hair. Off-Broadway: Rock of Ages (original cast), Hair (original revival cast), Unlock’d (NYMF), Ripper. National Tour: Wicked (IRNE Award nomination). Regional: A Grand Night for Singing (Connecticut Critics Circle Award), The Full Monty, Singing in the Rain, Joseph...Dreamcoat, Sweeney Todd, The Mystery of Edwin Drood, Candide and Smokey Joe’s Café.  TV: “All My Children”. Concept Albums: “Swept Away” (Disney), “Tears from Heaven,” “Excalibur” (Frank Wildhorn).

Susan Cella

Susan Cella (Angie, Sideburns Lady, China Clerk) is thrilled to return to Pittsburgh CLO for her 7th season. Previously seen this season in Mary Poppins, Man of La Mancha and Gypsy. BROADWAY: The Graduate, Crazy He Calls Me, Me and my Girl, Evita, On the Twentieth Century, Allegro, Lady in the Dark. NATIONAL TOURS: Fiddler, Hairspray, 42nd Street, La Cage aux Folles, Me and my Girl, Can-Can. OFF-BROADWAY: Hello Muddah…, Mayor, Jacques Brel. REGIONAL: over 35 productions. FILM/TV: “Person of Interest,” “Law and Order,” “The Sopranos,” “All my Children,” “Hi Honey I’m Home,” “The Tavern,” “The Astronaut’s Wife,” “Follies,” “A Sondheim Celebration.” Thank
you, Barry.

Brandon Espinoza

Brandon Espinoza (Sammy) Broadway: Gypsy, Big, Les Misérables, The Will Rogers Follies. Off-Broadway: Tea and Sympathy (Keen Company), Scarcity (Atlantic Theater Company), Substitution (Playwrights Realm), Not Waving (The Kirk at Theater Row). Regional: Grease (MUNY), Footloose (Pittsburgh CLO), West Side Story (Stratford Shakespeare Festival). TV: “I Love You...But I Lied” (LMN), “The Following” (Fox), “The Leftovers” (HBO), “It Could Be Worse” (HULU), “Elementary” (CBS), “The Carrie Diaries” (CW).

Jeffrey Howell

Jeffrey Howell (Ronald Reagan Impersonator) recently performed with Virginia Musical Theatre in Gypsy and with the REP in Souvenir. Some favorite Pittsburgh CLO shows include 42nd Street, Singin’ in the Rain, Sunset Boulevard, Jesus Christ Superstar, Jekyll and Hyde, A Musical Christmas Carol (Bob Cratchit), Beauty and the Beast, Bells are Ringing, Pajama Game, The Most Happy Fella. Other credits include Candide, Tigers Be Still, Chicago and Tribute to Lerner and Loewe with Marvin Hamlisch and the PSO.

Greg Kamp

Greg Kamp (George) Excited being back at Pittsburgh CLO, having appeared last season as Willard in Footloose. Theatre: Catch Me If You Can (National Tour), Barry Manilow’s Harmony (Ahmanson), Power Plays (Dramatist Guild) and  Saturday Night (York Theatre). TV: “Wronged Man” (Lifetime), “Past Life” (Fox) and “Solving Charlie” (ABC). A CCM grad, Greg also serves as an Artistic Associate with Hook & Eye Theater and on staff with the Broadway Dreams Foundation. Endless thanks to Van, Barry, Rachel, Tom, and this incredible team. For my family.

Sandy Rosenberg

Sandy Rosenberg (Rosie) Pittsburgh CLO debut. Most recently, Sandy appeared as Jeanette in The Full Monty at Maine State Music Theatre and Fulton Theatre. Broadway: The Scarlet Pimpernel, Mamma Mia!, NYC Opera’s Candide. National tours: Les Misérables, Jekyll And Hyde, Menopause The Musical. Off-Broadway and Regional: The Golden Land, Mary Poppins, Young Frankenstein, Nunsense, Mame, Phantom, Lend Me A Tenor and The Odd Couple-Female Version with JoAnne Worley and Cindy Williams. Love my Sid.

Kirsten Scott

Kirsten Scott (Holly) This native ‘yinzer’ is thrilled to be back at Pittsburgh CLO where she was last seen as Bambi in Curtains. Broadway credits include originating the role of Jenny Hill in the musical Big Fish, originating the role of Young Phyllis in the 2012 revival of Follies, Lorraine in Jersey Boys and Amber von Tussle in Hairspray. Select Regional: Big Fish (Chicago Oriental Theater), Follies (Kennedy Center/Ahmanson), Marvelous Wonderettes (Westside Theater), Grease (Sacramento Music Circus), Chaplin (La Jolla Playhouse), Minsky’s (Ahmanson) TV: “All My Children”, “Steve Harvey Show.” Kirsten is a proud graduate of Carnegie Mellon University.

J. Michael Zygo

J. Michael Zygo (Robbie Hart) is making his Pittsburgh CLO debut! Most recently an original cast member/musician of Tony Award®-winning Once on Broadway (Emcee, u/s Guy/Billy, Dance Capt., Assoc. Cond.) featured on the Grammy Award winning Cast Album. Off-Broadway: Once (NYTW), Man of Rock (NYMF) Tours: Rock Of Ages -1st Nat. (Swing, u/s Drew/Stacee Jaxx/Franz/Dennis/Hertz), The Wedding Singer (Robbie Hart), Annie (Rooster), and Oklahoma! -1st Nat. (Will Parker). Film/TV: “Unforgettable,” “Rock Of Ages” (featured dancer), Tony Awards® 2012, 2013 (opening line!) He is also a singer/songwriter. For Jill & Maizy. www.thezygos.com

Danny Bevins

Danny Bevins (Harold Fonda, Dance Captain, Ensemble) is thrilled to be returning to Pittsburgh CLO! Audiences may remember him from last year’s Legally Blonde, as Nikos, the flamboyant pool boy. Professionally, Danny has worked at The Muny, Music Theatre of Wichita, Artpark and Pittsburgh CLO. He would like to thank his parents, Laura and Lynn, family, friends, Elon, DGRW and Emma for their constant support and guidance.

Ben Bogen

Ben Bogen (Ensemble) is beyond stoked to be performing with Pittsburgh CLO after Mary Poppins (Robertson Ay), Man of La Mancha, and Gypsy. A rising senior B.F.A Musical theatre major at The University of Michigan, credits include: The Music Man (Tommy Djilas), Cabaret (Bobby). Other credits: Xanadu (Terpsicore), Spring Awakening (Georg) and A Chorus Line (Mark). Proud new member of Actors Equity! Endless thanks to friends, family, and all my teachers! GO BLUE!

Lindsey Bracco

Lindsey Bracco (Ensemble) is thrilled to be back on her dream stage! Pittsburgh CLO: Footloose, Singin’ in the Rain, Legally Blonde, Curtains, The Producers. Other credits: Spamalot, Beauty and the Beast (Babette), 42nd Street (Annie), White Christmas (Rhoda), Guys and Dolls, Joseph... Dreamcoat and Hello, Dolly! FILM/TV: ABC Family, “Lovestruck, the Musical.” PPU Graduate. Special thanks to Pittsburgh CLO, NSK, family and friends. Love to Mom, Dad and Justin. This is for you, Aunt.

Melessie Clark

Melessie Clark (Crystal, Tina Turner Impersonator, Ensemble) is thrilled to be making her Pittsburgh CLO debut! Point Park University B.F.A. in Musical Theatre with Conservatory Theatre Company credits include Hecuba (Hecuba), The Boy Friend (Hortense), and Chess (Walter). Other credits include For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf, Hair, Tick, Tick…BOOM and Pittsburgh Playwrights Theatre’s Ubuntu Holiday. www.melessieclark.com

Kevin Clay

Kevin Clay (David Fonda, Ensemble) is a recent graduate from Penn State University with a B.F.A. in musical theatre. He is very excited to be making his Pittsburgh CLO debut this summer! Some of his favorite roles include Princeton (Avenue Q), Arab (West Side Story), Simeon (Joseph...Dreamcoat), John (John and Jen), Barnaby (Hello, Dolly!), and Pinocchio (Shrek).

Ixchel Cuellar

Ixchel Cuellar (Large Lady, Imelda Marcos Impersonator, Ensemble) is a rising senior in the B.F.A. Musical Theatre Program at Penn State, and is thrilled to be a part of this wonderful ensemble! University credits: Avenue Q, Leonard Bernstein’s Mass, Funk it up About Nothin’ and Into the Woods. A huge shout out to her parents, Misfits, and wonderful roommates, without whom her life would not be possible.

L'ogan J'ones

L’ogan J’ones (Bad Hair Guy, George Double, Ensemble) is really jazzed to be back in Pittsburgh for the summer! Pittsburgh CLO: Singin’ in the Rain, Legally Blonde, Footloose. Additional: Sonny in Grease at the St Louis Muny, and Bobby in Crazy for You while at the University of Michigan where he just received a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre with a minor in global theatre and ethnic studies. Go Blue!

Brooke Lacy

Brooke Lacy (Airline Ticket Clerk, Ensemble) is honored and thrilled to be a part of Pittsburgh CLO’s amazing summer season! Favorite credits: Julie Jordan in Carousel (University of Oklahoma), Mrs. Potiphar in Joseph...Dreamcoat (MTWichita) and Laker Girl in Spamalot (MTWichita). Tremendous love and thanks go out to her family, the Christ family, her professors at OU, Harden-Curtis, and Pittsburgh CLO for this amazing opportunity! Be the Sun!

Christine Laitta

Christine Laitta (Nancy Reagan Impersonator, Ensemble) Singing in the Rain, Legally Blonde, Footloose, The Sound of Music, Girls Only: The Secret Comedy of Women, I Love You Your Perfect Now Change, Forbidden Broadway and Forbidden Broadway SVU. National Tour: The Magic School Bus (Ms Frizzle). Chris Laitta’s TV TUNES Sing-A-Long and co-author of “The Dramatically Different Classroom”. Up next, Public Theatre's The Diary of Anne Frank. Thanks to Lori and Barry and everyone at the Pittsburgh CLO. Proud member of AEA.

Justin Lonesome

Justin Lonesome (Mookie, Ricky, Mr. T Impersonator, Ensemble) is thrilled to return to the Pittsburgh CLO stage! Past credits; Jersey Boys. Pittsburgh CLO productions; Oliver!, Curtains, Jesus Christ Superstar, A Chorus Line, Annie, Sunset Boulevard.

Mallory Michaellann

Mallory Michaellann (Donatella McDonnough, Cyndi Lauper Impersonator, Ensemble) is entering her senior year in the B.F.A. Musical Theatre program at the University of Michigan. She is beyond excited to experience Saturday night every night on stage with this crazy and talented cast! Credits include: Singin’ in the Rain, Legally Blonde, Footloose, Mary Poppins, Gypsy (Pittsburgh CLO). Cabaret, The Music Man (University of Michigan). Thanks Mommy, Daddy and my loving Scott.

Zach Miller

Zach Miller (Trekkie Guy, The Bum, Ensemble) is thrilled to be returning to the Pittsburgh CLO for his second summer! Pittsburgh CLO: Singin’ in the Rain (Production Tenor), Footloose (Garvin), Legally Blonde and Cats. National Tour: Anything Goes (Ensemble, U/s Purser). Regional Credits: Music Theatre of Wichita, Connecticut Repertory Theatre and West Virginia Public Theatre. Much love to family, friends and Bebe. www.zachlmiller.com

Alle-Faye Monka

Alle-Faye Monka (Debbie Fonda, Rosie Double, Ensemble) is excited to be performing at Pittsburgh CLO this summer after earlier being seen in Mary Poppins and Gypsy (Agnes). Previous top credits: National Tour of A Chorus Line (Tricia), IDAHO (Ida Dunn), Ragtime (Evelyn Nesbit), 42nd Street (Phyllis), Annie (Connie Boylan), and The Wizard of Oz. Proud UofM grad. This one is for the love of my parents on their 33rd Anniversary! www.Allefayemonka.com

Dallas Padoven

Dallas Padoven (Shane McDonnough, Ensemble) Pittsburgh CLO credits include Gypsy, Singin’ in the Rain, Legally Blonde and Footloose! Other credits include Hands on a Hardbody at Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati, Cincy Kings at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, South Pacific and Tommy at West Virginia Public Theatre and many other regional productions. Thank you to Van, Lori, Uncle Barry and Lindsey for letting me be apart of this amazing company, and thank you Mom, Dad, Dakota and Drew for always believing in me! Cheers! Proud member of AEA .

Kevin Paul

Kevin Paul (Billy Idol Impersonator, Ensemble) joins Pittsburgh CLO for the first time this summer! Born in Florida, Kevin trained at StarStruck Performing Arts Center, before coming up to Pittsburgh this past year, to attend Carnegie Mellon University, training for a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre. He is grateful for the opportunity to perform with Pittsburgh CLO and sends love to his Mom, Dad and sister.

Barry Ivan (Director / Choreographer) National and International Directing credits range from Yale to the German State Opera. Highlighted Pittsburgh CLO credits: Company, Sunset Boulevard, A Little Night Music, Miss Saigon, The Full Monty, Les Misérables and West Side Story. Mr. Ivan is an IRNE nominated Director for Nine and Les Misérables; his productions of The Full Monty and Hairspray received Best Musical IRNE awards, and as Producer, his production of SHOWBOAT received the Elliot Norton award for Best Musical. Mr. Ivan was the Director/Choreographer of the US Premiere of Dracula: A Chamber Musical, and recently directed playwright Jeff Stolzer’s new work, POWER PLAYS at the Dramatist Guild. Mr. Ivan is currently under contract Executive Producing and developing Web TV programming, and is ecstatic to be reunited with the incredibly talented Pittsburgh CLO staff, crew and cast. For Zack.

Tom Helm (Musical Director) happily returns for his 20th Pittsburgh CLO season, having conducted more than 60 productions. His other adventures include conducting the Broadway productions of the Brigadoon revival, CATS, Me and My Girl, Les Misérables and Souvenir. Tom was musical director of the first national tour of CATS, Radio City’s 5-6-7-8 Dance!, and television productions of Mornings at Seven and Crazy For You. Tom supervised touring productions of Me and My Girl, Dora the Explorer, Diego Live, Rugrats and Madagascar. He has also been music director of some 50 Paper Mill Playhouse productions, among other regional and national theatres.

Andrew David Ostrowski (Lighting Designer) National credits: The Asolo, Virginia Stage, North Shore Music Theater, George Street Playhouse, Merrimack Rep., The Arden, Spoleto Festival USA, Madison Opera, Dallas Summer Musicals, amongst others. International credits include productions in France, Sweden, Scotland and Ireland. Local credits: City Theatre, Pittsburgh Public Theater, PICT, Pittsburgh Ballet, Pittsburgh Opera, The REP, and many others. Andy resides in Pittsburgh and is an adjunct instructor for Point Park University and a freelance Lighting Designer for hire. www.tfpld.com

J. Jason Daunter (Production Stage Manager) Jason is thrilled to be joining the Pittsburgh CLO family this summer! Broadway Credits: Wicked, Cyrano de Bergerac (starring Kevin Kline), and Glory Days. National Tours: Wicked, Chicago, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Joseph…Dreamcoat and A Christmas Carol. Jason is one of the nations leading advocates on Educational Theatre and speaks yearly to thousands of high school students across the country. Proud member of Actors Equity. Jasondaunter.com

Tiia E. Torchia (Costume Coordinator) is honored to be joining the Pittsburgh CLO team. She recently moved to Pittsburgh after living in New York City where she ran the costume shops for several prominent Off-Broadway theater companies. For the past 15 years she has spent many summers at Music Theatre of Wichita, in Wichita, KS where she has designed Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Hairspray, Smokey Joe’s Cafe, Xanadu and just last month Disney’s My Son Pinocchio. Her days here in Pittsburgh are spent as the Assistant Costumer at Pittsburgh Ballet Theater.

Daniel Koye (Hair Designer) Broadway: Love Letters, Cinderella, Trip to Bountiful, Follies, Hair, Book of Mormon, Mary Poppins, Rock of Ages, Curtins, Chicago, Gypsy and Spring Awakening.  Film/Television: “Trip to Bountiful,” “Royal Pains,” “Blue Bloods.” Clients: Vanessa Williams, Carly Rae Jepsen, Cicely Tyson, Mia Farrow, Carol Burnett, Candis Bergen, Cuba Gooding Jr, Dan Stevens, Jessica Chastain, Heidi Klum, Seal, Susan Lucci, Carol Channing, Elaine Paige.
www.dkoye.com

Jeffrey Small (Associate Lighting Designer) returns to Pittsburgh CLO for his sixth summer season! Selected Regional: Paper Mill Playhouse, Westport Country Playhouse, Williamstown Theatre Festival, Berkshire Theatre Festival, Goodspeed Musicals, Asolo Rep, Long Wharf Theatre, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, The Pittsburgh Public Theatre, and City Theatre Company. Live Events: “The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade,” “New Year’s Eve in Times Square.” TV: Comedy Central’s “Night of Too Many Stars” (2015), NBC’s “Peter Pan Live!”

Alicia Reece (Assistant Stage Manager) Now entering her fifth Summer with Pittsburgh CLO, “Lish” spends her “off-season,” as the Stage Manager for the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre. Originally from Illinois, and having worked extensively in regional theatre, Off-Broadway, and international touring, she is proud to now call Pittsburgh home. Shout out to the amazing tech staff. Love and thanks to “Jacquie!”

Mark A. Stys (Assistant Stage Manager) This is Mark’s 4th year with Pittsburgh CLO! Selected Credits: Broadway: Honeymoon in Vegas, Big Fish, Act One, Newsies. Paper Mill Playhouse: Oliver!, Disney’s The Little Mermaid, The Sound of Music, A Chorus Line. Events: “Time Square New Years Eve Celebration” 2014 and 2015, “A Night of SeriousFun Celebrating the Legacy of Paul Newman.”

TELSEY + COMPANY (Casting) Broadway/Tours: On Your Feet!, Hamilton, Something Rotten!, An American in Paris, Finding Neverland, The King and I, Hand to God, Kinky Boots, Wicked, If/Then, The Sound of Music, Newsies, Pippin, Motown, Rock of Ages, Million Dollar Quartet. Film: “Ricki and the Flash,” “Focus,” “The Last Five Years,” “Song One,” “A Most Violent Year,” “Into the Woods.” TV: “Flesh and Bone,” “Masters of Sex,” commercials. www.telseyandco.com

Chad Beguelin (Book and Lyrics) is a four-time Tony Award® nominee for his contributions to The Wedding Singer and Aladdin. Along with two Tony® nominations for The Wedding Singer, Best Original Score and Best Book of a Musical, in which he shared with Tim Herlihy, Beguelin received a Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Lyrics. Beguelin also wrote the lyrics to the 2010 stage adaptation, Elf: The Musical. Beguelin’s writing credits also include screen writing for Disney’s live action film department in California. His other credits include: The Rhythm Club, Wicked City and On the Record.

Tim Herlihy (Book) is an actor, producer and screenwriter who wrote the 1998 original film, “The Wedding Singer.” After the success of the movie, Herlihy made his Broadway debut by co-writing the book with Beguelin for the film’s 2006 stage adaptation. He wrote and produced for “Saturday Night Live” from 1993 until 2000 and is known to frequently collaborate with Adam Sandler. His screen writing credits include: “Billy Madison,” “Happy Gilmore,” “The Waterboy,” “Big Daddy,” “Mr. Deeds,” “Bedtime Stories” and “Grown Ups 2.”  His production credits include: “Anger Management,” The Longest Yard,” “Click” and “Grown Ups.”

Matthew Sklar (Music) composed the musical score for The Wedding Singer, in which he received a 2006 Tony Award® nomination for Best Original Score. Sklar started composing at the young age of 14, with his first song later recorded for the Mickey Mouse Club. Sklar composed for Elf: The Musical, which broke box office records during its run at the Al Hirschfield Theatre in 2010. He has written his own original musicals which include The Rhythm Club, Judas and Me and Wicked City. Sklar’s other contributions include: Shrek: The Musical, 42nd Street, Miss Saigon, Les Misérables and Caroline, or Change.

Fun Facts

  •  THE WEDDING SINGER is based on the 1998 film which starred Adam Sandler as Robbie Hart and Drew Barrymore as Julia Sullivan.

  • In its opening weekend at the box office, the film came in 2nd, just behind Titanic. Overall, it grossed $123 million on an $18 million budget – a huge success by Hollywood’s standards.

  • The musical adaptation opened on Broadway in 2006 with Stephen Lynch as Robbie and Laura Benanti as Julia. The production received five Tony Award® nominations including Best Musical.

  • Two songs from the film made it into the musical, and both were co-written by Adam Sandler and Tim Herlihy – “Somebody Kill Me” and “Grow Old With You.”

  • Pittsburgh CLO alum Rob Ashford served as Choreographer on the Broadway production.

  • After the First National Tour, hit productions of THE WEDDING SINGER were enjoyed in Spain, across the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, Australia, Austria, the Phillippines and Germany.

  • This is Pittsburgh CLO’s first time producing THE WEDDING SINGER.

View Events By Date

THE WEDDING SINGER

Jul 24, 2015 - Aug 02, 2015

Benedum Center

ROCK THE BENEDUM CENTER '80s STYLE
Meet New Jersey’s favorite wedding singer/rock-star wannabe, Robbie Hart. He’s the life of the party, until his fiancée leaves him heartbroken at the altar. “Shot through the heart,” Robbie turns every wedding into a disaster. Enter Julia, a winsome waitress who wins his affection with her innocent charm. Robbie falls hard, only to learn that Julia is about to be married to a narcissistic Wall Street shark. Can he pull off the performance of a decade and win her heart, or will Julia be lost to him forever? Nominated for five Tony Awards®, THE WEDDING SINGER is packed with enough music and dancing to leave you longing once more for “the decade of excess!”

Some Adult Content

Cast

Jenna Ushkowitz

Jenna Ushkowitz (Julia Sullivan) is known for her role as Tina Cohen-Chang for five seasons of the 3-time Emmy nominated, FOX television series, “Glee.”  Most recently, Jenna served as the executive producer of “Twinsters,” a film documentary that premiered at SXSW in Austin. Last summer, Jenna starred in the Hollywood Bowl special production of Hair. Prior to becoming a Gleek, Jenna was on Broadway in the Tony Award®-winning production of Spring Awakening where she performed the roles of Ilse, Martha, Anna and Thea. Jenna released her first memoir, “Choosing Glee” in May 2013, which is a heartfelt, practical guide for teens on how to be your true self. Baseball fans may know Jenna as the first host of “Yankees on Deck,” which is a behind-the-scenes sports show geared towards young audiences on the YES! Network.  Jenna made her Broadway debut at the age of nine in the 1996 revival of The King and I, and performed with the original cast in an appearance at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade that year. Her television credits include “Sesame Street,” “Reading Rainbow,” “As the World Turns” and the pilot “The Imagination Movers” for Playhouse Disney. 

Brandon Andrus

Brandon Andrus (Glen Guglia) is stoked to perform at Pittsburgh CLO! Last time he was in Pittsburgh yinz might have seen him as Nick Massi in Jersey Boys at the Benedum Center. Other favorite roles: Terry/Buddy cover in Side Show (Broadway), Mr. Darcy in Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice: A Musical (World Premier), Curly in Oklahoma! (1st National Tour), Sonny in Xanadu, Chad in All Shook Up, King Arthur in Camelot. Proud member of AEA & SAG-AFTRA. Love to Deven, Mom and Dad. www.brandonandrus.com

Jackie Burns

Jackie Burns (Linda) Previously seen this season as Aldonza in Pittsburgh CLO's Man of La Mancha. Broadway: If/Then, Wicked, Hair. Off-Broadway: Rock of Ages (original cast), Hair (original revival cast), Unlock’d (NYMF), Ripper. National Tour: Wicked (IRNE Award nomination). Regional: A Grand Night for Singing (Connecticut Critics Circle Award), The Full Monty, Singing in the Rain, Joseph...Dreamcoat, Sweeney Todd, The Mystery of Edwin Drood, Candide and Smokey Joe’s Café.  TV: “All My Children”. Concept Albums: “Swept Away” (Disney), “Tears from Heaven,” “Excalibur” (Frank Wildhorn).

Susan Cella

Susan Cella (Angie, Sideburns Lady, China Clerk) is thrilled to return to Pittsburgh CLO for her 7th season. Previously seen this season in Mary Poppins, Man of La Mancha and Gypsy. BROADWAY: The Graduate, Crazy He Calls Me, Me and my Girl, Evita, On the Twentieth Century, Allegro, Lady in the Dark. NATIONAL TOURS: Fiddler, Hairspray, 42nd Street, La Cage aux Folles, Me and my Girl, Can-Can. OFF-BROADWAY: Hello Muddah…, Mayor, Jacques Brel. REGIONAL: over 35 productions. FILM/TV: “Person of Interest,” “Law and Order,” “The Sopranos,” “All my Children,” “Hi Honey I’m Home,” “The Tavern,” “The Astronaut’s Wife,” “Follies,” “A Sondheim Celebration.” Thank
you, Barry.

Brandon Espinoza

Brandon Espinoza (Sammy) Broadway: Gypsy, Big, Les Misérables, The Will Rogers Follies. Off-Broadway: Tea and Sympathy (Keen Company), Scarcity (Atlantic Theater Company), Substitution (Playwrights Realm), Not Waving (The Kirk at Theater Row). Regional: Grease (MUNY), Footloose (Pittsburgh CLO), West Side Story (Stratford Shakespeare Festival). TV: “I Love You...But I Lied” (LMN), “The Following” (Fox), “The Leftovers” (HBO), “It Could Be Worse” (HULU), “Elementary” (CBS), “The Carrie Diaries” (CW).

Jeffrey Howell

Jeffrey Howell (Ronald Reagan Impersonator) recently performed with Virginia Musical Theatre in Gypsy and with the REP in Souvenir. Some favorite Pittsburgh CLO shows include 42nd Street, Singin’ in the Rain, Sunset Boulevard, Jesus Christ Superstar, Jekyll and Hyde, A Musical Christmas Carol (Bob Cratchit), Beauty and the Beast, Bells are Ringing, Pajama Game, The Most Happy Fella. Other credits include Candide, Tigers Be Still, Chicago and Tribute to Lerner and Loewe with Marvin Hamlisch and the PSO.

Greg Kamp

Greg Kamp (George) Excited being back at Pittsburgh CLO, having appeared last season as Willard in Footloose. Theatre: Catch Me If You Can (National Tour), Barry Manilow’s Harmony (Ahmanson), Power Plays (Dramatist Guild) and  Saturday Night (York Theatre). TV: “Wronged Man” (Lifetime), “Past Life” (Fox) and “Solving Charlie” (ABC). A CCM grad, Greg also serves as an Artistic Associate with Hook & Eye Theater and on staff with the Broadway Dreams Foundation. Endless thanks to Van, Barry, Rachel, Tom, and this incredible team. For my family.

Sandy Rosenberg

Sandy Rosenberg (Rosie) Pittsburgh CLO debut. Most recently, Sandy appeared as Jeanette in The Full Monty at Maine State Music Theatre and Fulton Theatre. Broadway: The Scarlet Pimpernel, Mamma Mia!, NYC Opera’s Candide. National tours: Les Misérables, Jekyll And Hyde, Menopause The Musical. Off-Broadway and Regional: The Golden Land, Mary Poppins, Young Frankenstein, Nunsense, Mame, Phantom, Lend Me A Tenor and The Odd Couple-Female Version with JoAnne Worley and Cindy Williams. Love my Sid.

Kirsten Scott

Kirsten Scott (Holly) This native ‘yinzer’ is thrilled to be back at Pittsburgh CLO where she was last seen as Bambi in Curtains. Broadway credits include originating the role of Jenny Hill in the musical Big Fish, originating the role of Young Phyllis in the 2012 revival of Follies, Lorraine in Jersey Boys and Amber von Tussle in Hairspray. Select Regional: Big Fish (Chicago Oriental Theater), Follies (Kennedy Center/Ahmanson), Marvelous Wonderettes (Westside Theater), Grease (Sacramento Music Circus), Chaplin (La Jolla Playhouse), Minsky’s (Ahmanson) TV: “All My Children”, “Steve Harvey Show.” Kirsten is a proud graduate of Carnegie Mellon University.

J. Michael Zygo

J. Michael Zygo (Robbie Hart) is making his Pittsburgh CLO debut! Most recently an original cast member/musician of Tony Award®-winning Once on Broadway (Emcee, u/s Guy/Billy, Dance Capt., Assoc. Cond.) featured on the Grammy Award winning Cast Album. Off-Broadway: Once (NYTW), Man of Rock (NYMF) Tours: Rock Of Ages -1st Nat. (Swing, u/s Drew/Stacee Jaxx/Franz/Dennis/Hertz), The Wedding Singer (Robbie Hart), Annie (Rooster), and Oklahoma! -1st Nat. (Will Parker). Film/TV: “Unforgettable,” “Rock Of Ages” (featured dancer), Tony Awards® 2012, 2013 (opening line!) He is also a singer/songwriter. For Jill & Maizy. www.thezygos.com

Danny Bevins

Danny Bevins (Harold Fonda, Dance Captain, Ensemble) is thrilled to be returning to Pittsburgh CLO! Audiences may remember him from last year’s Legally Blonde, as Nikos, the flamboyant pool boy. Professionally, Danny has worked at The Muny, Music Theatre of Wichita, Artpark and Pittsburgh CLO. He would like to thank his parents, Laura and Lynn, family, friends, Elon, DGRW and Emma for their constant support and guidance.

Ben Bogen

Ben Bogen (Ensemble) is beyond stoked to be performing with Pittsburgh CLO after Mary Poppins (Robertson Ay), Man of La Mancha, and Gypsy. A rising senior B.F.A Musical theatre major at The University of Michigan, credits include: The Music Man (Tommy Djilas), Cabaret (Bobby). Other credits: Xanadu (Terpsicore), Spring Awakening (Georg) and A Chorus Line (Mark). Proud new member of Actors Equity! Endless thanks to friends, family, and all my teachers! GO BLUE!

Lindsey Bracco

Lindsey Bracco (Ensemble) is thrilled to be back on her dream stage! Pittsburgh CLO: Footloose, Singin’ in the Rain, Legally Blonde, Curtains, The Producers. Other credits: Spamalot, Beauty and the Beast (Babette), 42nd Street (Annie), White Christmas (Rhoda), Guys and Dolls, Joseph... Dreamcoat and Hello, Dolly! FILM/TV: ABC Family, “Lovestruck, the Musical.” PPU Graduate. Special thanks to Pittsburgh CLO, NSK, family and friends. Love to Mom, Dad and Justin. This is for you, Aunt.

Melessie Clark

Melessie Clark (Crystal, Tina Turner Impersonator, Ensemble) is thrilled to be making her Pittsburgh CLO debut! Point Park University B.F.A. in Musical Theatre with Conservatory Theatre Company credits include Hecuba (Hecuba), The Boy Friend (Hortense), and Chess (Walter). Other credits include For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf, Hair, Tick, Tick…BOOM and Pittsburgh Playwrights Theatre’s Ubuntu Holiday. www.melessieclark.com

Kevin Clay

Kevin Clay (David Fonda, Ensemble) is a recent graduate from Penn State University with a B.F.A. in musical theatre. He is very excited to be making his Pittsburgh CLO debut this summer! Some of his favorite roles include Princeton (Avenue Q), Arab (West Side Story), Simeon (Joseph...Dreamcoat), John (John and Jen), Barnaby (Hello, Dolly!), and Pinocchio (Shrek).

Ixchel Cuellar

Ixchel Cuellar (Large Lady, Imelda Marcos Impersonator, Ensemble) is a rising senior in the B.F.A. Musical Theatre Program at Penn State, and is thrilled to be a part of this wonderful ensemble! University credits: Avenue Q, Leonard Bernstein’s Mass, Funk it up About Nothin’ and Into the Woods. A huge shout out to her parents, Misfits, and wonderful roommates, without whom her life would not be possible.

L'ogan J'ones

L’ogan J’ones (Bad Hair Guy, George Double, Ensemble) is really jazzed to be back in Pittsburgh for the summer! Pittsburgh CLO: Singin’ in the Rain, Legally Blonde, Footloose. Additional: Sonny in Grease at the St Louis Muny, and Bobby in Crazy for You while at the University of Michigan where he just received a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre with a minor in global theatre and ethnic studies. Go Blue!

Brooke Lacy

Brooke Lacy (Airline Ticket Clerk, Ensemble) is honored and thrilled to be a part of Pittsburgh CLO’s amazing summer season! Favorite credits: Julie Jordan in Carousel (University of Oklahoma), Mrs. Potiphar in Joseph...Dreamcoat (MTWichita) and Laker Girl in Spamalot (MTWichita). Tremendous love and thanks go out to her family, the Christ family, her professors at OU, Harden-Curtis, and Pittsburgh CLO for this amazing opportunity! Be the Sun!

Christine Laitta

Christine Laitta (Nancy Reagan Impersonator, Ensemble) Singing in the Rain, Legally Blonde, Footloose, The Sound of Music, Girls Only: The Secret Comedy of Women, I Love You Your Perfect Now Change, Forbidden Broadway and Forbidden Broadway SVU. National Tour: The Magic School Bus (Ms Frizzle). Chris Laitta’s TV TUNES Sing-A-Long and co-author of “The Dramatically Different Classroom”. Up next, Public Theatre's The Diary of Anne Frank. Thanks to Lori and Barry and everyone at the Pittsburgh CLO. Proud member of AEA.

Justin Lonesome

Justin Lonesome (Mookie, Ricky, Mr. T Impersonator, Ensemble) is thrilled to return to the Pittsburgh CLO stage! Past credits; Jersey Boys. Pittsburgh CLO productions; Oliver!, Curtains, Jesus Christ Superstar, A Chorus Line, Annie, Sunset Boulevard.

Mallory Michaellann

Mallory Michaellann (Donatella McDonnough, Cyndi Lauper Impersonator, Ensemble) is entering her senior year in the B.F.A. Musical Theatre program at the University of Michigan. She is beyond excited to experience Saturday night every night on stage with this crazy and talented cast! Credits include: Singin’ in the Rain, Legally Blonde, Footloose, Mary Poppins, Gypsy (Pittsburgh CLO). Cabaret, The Music Man (University of Michigan). Thanks Mommy, Daddy and my loving Scott.

Zach Miller

Zach Miller (Trekkie Guy, The Bum, Ensemble) is thrilled to be returning to the Pittsburgh CLO for his second summer! Pittsburgh CLO: Singin’ in the Rain (Production Tenor), Footloose (Garvin), Legally Blonde and Cats. National Tour: Anything Goes (Ensemble, U/s Purser). Regional Credits: Music Theatre of Wichita, Connecticut Repertory Theatre and West Virginia Public Theatre. Much love to family, friends and Bebe. www.zachlmiller.com

Alle-Faye Monka

Alle-Faye Monka (Debbie Fonda, Rosie Double, Ensemble) is excited to be performing at Pittsburgh CLO this summer after earlier being seen in Mary Poppins and Gypsy (Agnes). Previous top credits: National Tour of A Chorus Line (Tricia), IDAHO (Ida Dunn), Ragtime (Evelyn Nesbit), 42nd Street (Phyllis), Annie (Connie Boylan), and The Wizard of Oz. Proud UofM grad. This one is for the love of my parents on their 33rd Anniversary! www.Allefayemonka.com

Dallas Padoven

Dallas Padoven (Shane McDonnough, Ensemble) Pittsburgh CLO credits include Gypsy, Singin’ in the Rain, Legally Blonde and Footloose! Other credits include Hands on a Hardbody at Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati, Cincy Kings at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, South Pacific and Tommy at West Virginia Public Theatre and many other regional productions. Thank you to Van, Lori, Uncle Barry and Lindsey for letting me be apart of this amazing company, and thank you Mom, Dad, Dakota and Drew for always believing in me! Cheers! Proud member of AEA .

Kevin Paul

Kevin Paul (Billy Idol Impersonator, Ensemble) joins Pittsburgh CLO for the first time this summer! Born in Florida, Kevin trained at StarStruck Performing Arts Center, before coming up to Pittsburgh this past year, to attend Carnegie Mellon University, training for a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre. He is grateful for the opportunity to perform with Pittsburgh CLO and sends love to his Mom, Dad and sister.

Barry Ivan (Director / Choreographer) National and International Directing credits range from Yale to the German State Opera. Highlighted Pittsburgh CLO credits: Company, Sunset Boulevard, A Little Night Music, Miss Saigon, The Full Monty, Les Misérables and West Side Story. Mr. Ivan is an IRNE nominated Director for Nine and Les Misérables; his productions of The Full Monty and Hairspray received Best Musical IRNE awards, and as Producer, his production of SHOWBOAT received the Elliot Norton award for Best Musical. Mr. Ivan was the Director/Choreographer of the US Premiere of Dracula: A Chamber Musical, and recently directed playwright Jeff Stolzer’s new work, POWER PLAYS at the Dramatist Guild. Mr. Ivan is currently under contract Executive Producing and developing Web TV programming, and is ecstatic to be reunited with the incredibly talented Pittsburgh CLO staff, crew and cast. For Zack.

Tom Helm (Musical Director) happily returns for his 20th Pittsburgh CLO season, having conducted more than 60 productions. His other adventures include conducting the Broadway productions of the Brigadoon revival, CATS, Me and My Girl, Les Misérables and Souvenir. Tom was musical director of the first national tour of CATS, Radio City’s 5-6-7-8 Dance!, and television productions of Mornings at Seven and Crazy For You. Tom supervised touring productions of Me and My Girl, Dora the Explorer, Diego Live, Rugrats and Madagascar. He has also been music director of some 50 Paper Mill Playhouse productions, among other regional and national theatres.

Andrew David Ostrowski (Lighting Designer) National credits: The Asolo, Virginia Stage, North Shore Music Theater, George Street Playhouse, Merrimack Rep., The Arden, Spoleto Festival USA, Madison Opera, Dallas Summer Musicals, amongst others. International credits include productions in France, Sweden, Scotland and Ireland. Local credits: City Theatre, Pittsburgh Public Theater, PICT, Pittsburgh Ballet, Pittsburgh Opera, The REP, and many others. Andy resides in Pittsburgh and is an adjunct instructor for Point Park University and a freelance Lighting Designer for hire. www.tfpld.com

J. Jason Daunter (Production Stage Manager) Jason is thrilled to be joining the Pittsburgh CLO family this summer! Broadway Credits: Wicked, Cyrano de Bergerac (starring Kevin Kline), and Glory Days. National Tours: Wicked, Chicago, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Joseph…Dreamcoat and A Christmas Carol. Jason is one of the nations leading advocates on Educational Theatre and speaks yearly to thousands of high school students across the country. Proud member of Actors Equity. Jasondaunter.com

Tiia E. Torchia (Costume Coordinator) is honored to be joining the Pittsburgh CLO team. She recently moved to Pittsburgh after living in New York City where she ran the costume shops for several prominent Off-Broadway theater companies. For the past 15 years she has spent many summers at Music Theatre of Wichita, in Wichita, KS where she has designed Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Hairspray, Smokey Joe’s Cafe, Xanadu and just last month Disney’s My Son Pinocchio. Her days here in Pittsburgh are spent as the Assistant Costumer at Pittsburgh Ballet Theater.

Daniel Koye (Hair Designer) Broadway: Love Letters, Cinderella, Trip to Bountiful, Follies, Hair, Book of Mormon, Mary Poppins, Rock of Ages, Curtins, Chicago, Gypsy and Spring Awakening.  Film/Television: “Trip to Bountiful,” “Royal Pains,” “Blue Bloods.” Clients: Vanessa Williams, Carly Rae Jepsen, Cicely Tyson, Mia Farrow, Carol Burnett, Candis Bergen, Cuba Gooding Jr, Dan Stevens, Jessica Chastain, Heidi Klum, Seal, Susan Lucci, Carol Channing, Elaine Paige.
www.dkoye.com

Jeffrey Small (Associate Lighting Designer) returns to Pittsburgh CLO for his sixth summer season! Selected Regional: Paper Mill Playhouse, Westport Country Playhouse, Williamstown Theatre Festival, Berkshire Theatre Festival, Goodspeed Musicals, Asolo Rep, Long Wharf Theatre, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, The Pittsburgh Public Theatre, and City Theatre Company. Live Events: “The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade,” “New Year’s Eve in Times Square.” TV: Comedy Central’s “Night of Too Many Stars” (2015), NBC’s “Peter Pan Live!”

Alicia Reece (Assistant Stage Manager) Now entering her fifth Summer with Pittsburgh CLO, “Lish” spends her “off-season,” as the Stage Manager for the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre. Originally from Illinois, and having worked extensively in regional theatre, Off-Broadway, and international touring, she is proud to now call Pittsburgh home. Shout out to the amazing tech staff. Love and thanks to “Jacquie!”

Mark A. Stys (Assistant Stage Manager) This is Mark’s 4th year with Pittsburgh CLO! Selected Credits: Broadway: Honeymoon in Vegas, Big Fish, Act One, Newsies. Paper Mill Playhouse: Oliver!, Disney’s The Little Mermaid, The Sound of Music, A Chorus Line. Events: “Time Square New Years Eve Celebration” 2014 and 2015, “A Night of SeriousFun Celebrating the Legacy of Paul Newman.”

TELSEY + COMPANY (Casting) Broadway/Tours: On Your Feet!, Hamilton, Something Rotten!, An American in Paris, Finding Neverland, The King and I, Hand to God, Kinky Boots, Wicked, If/Then, The Sound of Music, Newsies, Pippin, Motown, Rock of Ages, Million Dollar Quartet. Film: “Ricki and the Flash,” “Focus,” “The Last Five Years,” “Song One,” “A Most Violent Year,” “Into the Woods.” TV: “Flesh and Bone,” “Masters of Sex,” commercials. www.telseyandco.com

Chad Beguelin (Book and Lyrics) is a four-time Tony Award® nominee for his contributions to The Wedding Singer and Aladdin. Along with two Tony® nominations for The Wedding Singer, Best Original Score and Best Book of a Musical, in which he shared with Tim Herlihy, Beguelin received a Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Lyrics. Beguelin also wrote the lyrics to the 2010 stage adaptation, Elf: The Musical. Beguelin’s writing credits also include screen writing for Disney’s live action film department in California. His other credits include: The Rhythm Club, Wicked City and On the Record.

Tim Herlihy (Book) is an actor, producer and screenwriter who wrote the 1998 original film, “The Wedding Singer.” After the success of the movie, Herlihy made his Broadway debut by co-writing the book with Beguelin for the film’s 2006 stage adaptation. He wrote and produced for “Saturday Night Live” from 1993 until 2000 and is known to frequently collaborate with Adam Sandler. His screen writing credits include: “Billy Madison,” “Happy Gilmore,” “The Waterboy,” “Big Daddy,” “Mr. Deeds,” “Bedtime Stories” and “Grown Ups 2.”  His production credits include: “Anger Management,” The Longest Yard,” “Click” and “Grown Ups.”

Matthew Sklar (Music) composed the musical score for The Wedding Singer, in which he received a 2006 Tony Award® nomination for Best Original Score. Sklar started composing at the young age of 14, with his first song later recorded for the Mickey Mouse Club. Sklar composed for Elf: The Musical, which broke box office records during its run at the Al Hirschfield Theatre in 2010. He has written his own original musicals which include The Rhythm Club, Judas and Me and Wicked City. Sklar’s other contributions include: Shrek: The Musical, 42nd Street, Miss Saigon, Les Misérables and Caroline, or Change.

Fun Facts

  •  THE WEDDING SINGER is based on the 1998 film which starred Adam Sandler as Robbie Hart and Drew Barrymore as Julia Sullivan.

  • In its opening weekend at the box office, the film came in 2nd, just behind Titanic. Overall, it grossed $123 million on an $18 million budget – a huge success by Hollywood’s standards.

  • The musical adaptation opened on Broadway in 2006 with Stephen Lynch as Robbie and Laura Benanti as Julia. The production received five Tony Award® nominations including Best Musical.

  • Two songs from the film made it into the musical, and both were co-written by Adam Sandler and Tim Herlihy – “Somebody Kill Me” and “Grow Old With You.”

  • Pittsburgh CLO alum Rob Ashford served as Choreographer on the Broadway production.

  • After the First National Tour, hit productions of THE WEDDING SINGER were enjoyed in Spain, across the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, Australia, Austria, the Phillippines and Germany.

  • This is Pittsburgh CLO’s first time producing THE WEDDING SINGER.