Once On This Island
March 9 - 19 at 7:00pm
Added Performances - Friday, March 18 and Saturday, March 19 at 9:30pm
Performed in the Sony Pictures Theater
ALL PERFORMANCES ARE SOLD OUT!!
You can be put on a Waiting LIst if you show up at the theater 45 minutes before curtain.

General Admission $15
ASB/Children/Seniors $10

[ press release ]

Designers :

Director/Choreographer - Cari Ann Henderson
Musical Director - Tony Spano
Vocal Director - Lisa Michel
Producers - Stacey Wilson and Darryl B. Hovis
Tech Design - Joseph Horn

Performers :

Ton Ton Julian - William
Mama Euralie - Dana / Jessica
Ti Moune - Stefanie
Daniel - Skylar
Andrea - Clare
Asaka - Iman
Erzulie - Penelope
Agwe - Chris
Papa Ge - Norman
Gate Keeper - Kenji
Story Teller - Brandon
Story Teller - Giana
Story Teller - Daryl
Story Teller - Melanie
Understudy Gate Keeper - Brian
Understudy Papa Ge - Brandon
Understudy Story Teller - Brittni

Chorus and Dancers :

Chorus - Chris, Jessie, Brian, Halimah, Brittni, Molly, Libby, Christina, Alyssa
Dancers - Julie, Dana, Lauren, Allegra, Ashley, Jackie

Designers :

Stage Manager - Anais
Assistant Stage Manager - Rachel

Set Crew:

Team Leader - Sara, Sarah
Members - Sara, Amy, Rachel, Tanya, Naomi, Sam, Tess, Mimmi, Jon

Light Crew:

Team Leader - James, Alisa
Members - Alexandria, Haley, Sara, Tanya

Sound Crew:

Team Leader - Ronneane, Samantha
Members - Andrea, Alexandira

Costume Crew:

Team Leader - Rachel
Members - Chris, Leah, Ashley

Prop Crew:

Team Leader - Ashley, Samanta
Members - Nefertiti and Naki

 

 

 

 

 

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Alyssa (Chorus) A new comer to the Academy this freshman already has a solid foundation upon which she continues to build. Alyssa has previously performed in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown (Peppermint Patty), Bugsy Malone (Multiple Parts), Fiddler on the Roof (Hodel), Into the Woods (Cinderella/ Narrator), School House Rock (Dori/ Tom), The Music Man (Mrs. Paroo), Annie (Grace), and Honk (Maurine). Along side her participation and increasing achievement with Dee-lightful Productions, she is also at the top of her game in the Badminton Club. Alyssa imparts her immense appreciation for her family and friends, and is ever so thankful to take part in such a wonderful production. [top]

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Giana (Storyteller) Giana is a sophomore at Culver City High School and in her second year with the Blurred Vision Theater Co. She is absolutely delighted to be playing a storyteller in Once on this Island. Credits outside the academy include The Wizard of Oz (Chorus), School House Rock (Dori), Leader of the Pack (Chorus), and Flower Drum Song (Nightclub Singer). Within the AVPA Giana has been featured in BatBoy: The Musical (Pit Singer), Footloose (Choir), Java X, Cabaret Night, Culver Becomes Eclectic, and most recently Romeo and Juliet (Chorus). She is currently in the CCHS Concert Chior as well as the Cntaur Chamber Singers. Giana thanks her family and the entire cast and crew for contributing their amazing skill in the show. Finally, a great BIG “THANK YOU!” to CariAnn Henderson, the best director ever. Enjoy the Show!. [top]

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Willilam (Ton Ton) A senior at CCHS, William is thrilled to be part of such a great production. He previously expressed his talents in Noises Off! (Tim), Twelfth Night (Sir Andrew), Biggest Game of All, Tommy (Ensemble), BatBoy: The Musical (Sheriff Reynolds), Gint (Old Man), Footloose (Ren’s Uncle), Dracula (Dr. Seward), Romeo and Juliet (Capulet), and Java Drama VIII, IX, and X. In addition, for the past four years he has produced priceless humor as a member of Improv Comedy Troupe, TrainWreck Theatre. William would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank his family, CariAnn for three years of experience; and Hovis for long nights of hard work and being the convincing force to start acting. Joseph, Stacy, Choelsung, Ms. Michelle, and Dr. Spano for being the best staff an academy could ask for. [top]

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Molly (Chorus) In high spirits as a chorus member for Once on this Island, this sophomore carries both a colorful personality and equally astonishing talent. She has previously performed in Leader of the Pack (Chorus), The Hobbit (Dwarf), Midsummer Night Dream (Flute/ Thisby), Footloose (Rusty’s Girl), Once Upon a Mattress (Minstrel’s Apprentice). She also may be praised for her singing abilities she contributes to the Chamber Choir. Molly wishes to share her thankfulness for her supportive family, and CariAnn and Ms. Michel for their countless hours they have put into this production. [top]

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Jackie (Dancer) This motivated Culver freshman has all the right moves. She has participated in multiple dance shows at Douglas High for Michaels Dance Academy. Jackie also took part in a red skeleton infomercial and an old western film made for a school learning video. Achieving new heights, she advances herself through the Debbie Allen Dance Studio, auditions from Craigs List, and takes dance classes as a dance major in AVPA. She contributes to her church by signing in the choir, and both sets up and works at the café. Jackie would like to recognize her wonderful Mommie and Jennifer Mitchell for always driving her everywhere. [top]

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Melanie (Storyteller) Full of dynamic and bright character Melanie enthusiastically participates in the Blurred Vision Theater Co. for her fourth and final year at Culver High. Taking a jumpstart, she was seen in The Pajama Game and Crazy for You at Culver City Middle School. With the Santa Monica Playhouse Melanie has performed in Blurred Vision and Discord on a Silent Afternoon (Aphrodite). AVPA credits include Twelfth Night (Priest), Java Drama VIII, IX, and X, The House of Bernard Alba (Chorus), Tommy (Dance/Chorus), The Ophelia Project (Ophelia’s Ghost), and most recently Romeo and Juliet (Nurse). Apart from her involvement with the Academy Melanie is also actively engaged in track, the Santa Monica Playhouse, and is a volunteer at the Debbie Allen Dance Academy. “Since this is my last musical at Culver City High School, I’d like to make it one of my best experiences here. Thank you to all the Academy teachers, directors, and Hovis for creating a growing environment for me with in the Academy. I love it here, and I wish everyone good luck.” [top]

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Jessica (Mama Euralie) Jessica is a junior at CCHS and in her third year as a theater major in the Academy of Visual and Performing Arts. Her hard work and time spent at the Academy is recognized through the productions of Twelfth Night (Sheriff), The House of Bernarda Alba (Chorus), Footloose (Principal Clark), Romeo and Juliet (Friar Lawrence), and Java Drama IX, X. Jessica would like to thank CariAnn Henderson, Lisa Michel, Darryl Hovis, Stacey Wilson, her incredible family and friends for being so supportive and making this show possible. [top]

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Skylar (Daniel) Full of vocal talent, Skylar is sure to reach the stars. He participated in the Los Angeles Children’s Choir, performing with the LA Philharmonic and the Grand Choral at the Dorothy Chandler Theater. He has also been a member of school choirs for the past four years and involved in two choir festivals. As a sophomore Skylar’s kick is as strong as his voice; he is a black belt in Tea Kwon Do. “I would like to thank CariAnn and all of the teachers who took the time to put on this production; my exceptional family, especially my Nana, and most of all God, for blessing me day after day.” [top]

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Libby (Chorus) Libby is thrilled to be saying that she is thrilled to be a chorus member in Once on this Island. She currently attends Hamilton High School and is in love with the AVPA! Her energy and creativity was seen in Fiddler on the Roof (Village Mother), Oliver (Pick Pocket), Wizard of Oz (Wicked Witch), Music Man (Zeneeta’s Friend), Peter Pan (Smee), and Footloose (Ariel) all at Performing and Fine Arts Academy. Libby sends many thanks to her family, friends and of course Hovis, CarriAnn and Ms. Michelle. She hopes you enjoy the show! [top]

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Ashley (Dancer) This dancer never falls out of step. An enthusiastic sophomore member of the AVPA, Ashley has contributed her talents to Java Drama X (Sword Fighting), Dance Off 2 (Dancer), Juz-B-Cuz (Sword Fighter and Dancer), and Romeo and Juliet (Chorus). Nurturing her artistic abilities she attends classes at West LA and is a dance major at AVPA (Shim Sham Move Co.). However, Ashley will be sure to leave her mark beyond the spotlights as she develops political presence in Youth and Government. Ashley would like to thank her family and friends for putting up with her singing the songs all the time and supporting her every step and note. She would also like to express her appreciation for Hovis, Ms. Michel, and (of course) CariAnn!! Muhal Kita!!! [top]

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Kenji (Armand/Gatekeeper) Though just a freshman, Kenji has much to be proud of. He has participated in numerous dance productions at the Santa Monica Tap Academy and has lent his talents to Dance Off! here at the Academy. Seeking further enrichment Kenji attends Westchester Dance Academy for tap dancing, and AVPA Advanced Tap classes where in fact he is also a teacher of an Intermediate Tap class. Kenji’s motivation and self-discipline is evident, yet he does recognize and appreciate individuals for their encouragement. “I would like to thank my family for supporting me 100%. Also for pushing me to do better than I think my ability affords me.” [top]

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Dana (Dancer) A gifted young lady, Dana has both the motivation and talents to reach success. She has participated in many dance performances at Kat Nap Academy and at Molly and Ronis. She has theatrically performed in Oliver (Fagan’s Boy) and Dracula (Dracula’s Mistress). She can be seen monthly singing at Wilshire Boulevard Temple, and is involved with the Temple’s youth group. A freshman, Dana is also a dance major with Shim Sham Move Co. and is a part of the CCHS Lacrosse Team. “I want to thank my parents for driving me to rehearsal. I would like to dedicate this to my grandpa. I know he’s watching and smiling at me from heaven!” [top]

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Anais (Stage Manager) Anais continues her sophomore year at CCHS as a Design and Tech major in the Academy of Visual and Performing Arts. She is excited to be stage manager in such an amazing show; and has previously performed in Gint (Old Woman) and Java Drama X. Her participation in the Academy expands to include Batboy: the Musical, The Ophelia Project, Dracula and Romeo and Juliet. Anais would like to express her gratitude to her family and friends for their continuous love and support. And lastly extend warm thanks to CariAnn, Mr. Hovis, Ms. Michel, Joseph, and Stacey for giving her this awesome opportunity. [top]

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Dana (Mama Euralie/Chorus) A junior at CCHS, this talented and motivated musical theater major continues to shine in her second year and fourth production with the Academy. Performing with Dee-lightful Productions Dana has been seen in Wizard of Oz (Wicked Witch) and Once on this Island (Mama Euralie). Her participation with AVPA has come to include Batboy: the Musical (Ensemble), Footloose (Wendy Joe), Romeo and Juliet (Mercutio), and Java Drama X. Quite the artist, along side acting and singing Dana also shares a passion for dance and takes Tap classes at the Academy. Continuing to excel beyond AVPA, she is an active member of Youth and Government. Dana would like to thank her family and friends for putting up with long hours, the cast for just being AMAZING (especially Stefanie Vasseghi for always being there), and last but defiantly not least, she would like to thank CarriAnn and Ms. Michel for all their hard work and extraordinary vision. [top]

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Halimah (Chorus) Halimah is excited to be part of such a marvelous production. Previously, she has been in the musical Groovy at Marina Del Rey Middle School. Beyond productions this promising and ambitious sophomore is a counselor at the Prep Foundation Summer Camp with the best boss, her mother. Halimah wishes to thank her mother and father for always being there and for letting her be a part of the show. Her sister for support and both constant and complete understanding. And of course the whole cast and crew for being nothing short of wonderful, talented and kind people. [top]

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Chris (Agwe - God of War) This young but oh so ambitious sophomore is more than thrilled to be playing the role of a lifetime – a god. Chris has shined on stage in Academy performances such as Oliver (Fagins Boy), Tommy (10 year old Tommy), BatBoy: The Musical (Ron/ Wed), The Ophelia Project (Leartes), Footloose (Lyle), Java Drama X, Dracula (us Renfield) and Dance Offs. Adding to the list, he has been featured in Honk (Drake) with Dee-lightful Productions. Multi talented he attends tap classes as shows promising potential. Chris would like to give large thanks to his family; and CariAnn for her devotion to the AVPA and providing her amazing choreographing skills in every show he has done for the past four years. He can’t wait for the next two. [top]

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Brittni (Chorus/Understudy Storyteller) As a sophomore at CCHS, Brittni is full of heart and pure determination. Her acting aspirations have lead her to perform in Footloose (Church Choir), One Act Festival (Waitress), Java Drama X, Romeo and Juliet (Chorus), Dance Off, and Dance Concert with AVPA. Credits with Dee-lightful Productions include Into the Woods (Jack’s Mother), School House Rock (Tom/Shulie), The Music Man (Eulalie McKenie Shin), and Dear Edwina (Fairy Forkmother, Kelly). In addition Brittni has appeared in What Would You Do? (Various Roles) with Power House Theater. Immersing herself in the world of the arts Brittni is a member of TrainWreck Theater, attends AVPA classes, Advanced Tap, Afro-Caribbean, and voice and piano lessons. Actively she pursues her other interest by participating in the Mock Trial club. For this production, Brittni greatly thanks her family and friends, especially her parents, Mark and Sara Rubin, and brother Zachary. She wishes to acknowledge CarriAnn Henderson, Lisa Michel, Darryl Hovis, and Diana Kahn for their efforts and support. And to the entire cast and crew for such a wonderful experience. [top]

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Chris (Chorus) Chris has big dreams to match both his big heart and big voice. A sophomore at CCHS, he has distinguished himself in Fiddler on the Roof, Into the Woods (Baker), and Honk (Drake). Artistically Chris participates in the Academy and Chamber Choir. Chris would like to take this chance to thank his wonderful family, Cari Ann and Ms. Michel for working so hard, and his friends for their constant support and help. [top]

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Clare (Andrea Devereaux) Though just a freshman, Clare shows much ability and potential as she continues to grow at the Academy. Previously she has performed in Fiddler on the Roof (Golde) with Dolores Aguano, Leader of the Pack (Ellie Greenwich) at Culver City Middle School, and Amahal and the Night Visitors (Shepherdress) at Grace Lutheran Church. Most recently she has taken the stage in Romeo and Juliet (Lady Capulet) as a member of the Blurred Vision Theater Co. at AVPA. Clare’s artistic endeavors have extended to include Dance Off! And she will be competing at the University of LaVerne Theatre Festival in For Whom the Southern Belle Tolls.. Ever striving for advancement she is currently studying voice and attends AVPA classes. Clare wishes to express her love and gratitude for her family and friends. She thanks the cast and crew for such an incredible experience, and shares her immense appreciation for Marya Basaraba, CariAnn Henderson, Darryl Hovis, Lisa Michel and all their support and work. [top]

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Brian (Chorus/Understudy Gatekeeper) With nothing short of spunk Brian projects both his talents and passion on stage. Previous shows with the Academy include The Ophelia Project (Polonius), The Breakfast Club (Brian), Footloose (Choir), Breast Men (Gee), Java Drama X, Dance Off! 2004, Dracula (us Dr. Seward), and Romeo and Juliet (Paris). He has also been seen in other various shows and roles with Dee-lightful productions. Brian wishes to express his appreciation for his incredible parents and supportive friends. Anais and Rachel for being a pair of the most wonderful stage mangers. And many thanks to Ms. Michel and CariAnn, without whom this production would not have been possible. Enjoy the show! [top]

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Brandon (Storyteller/Understudy Pape Ge) Currently a freshman theater major, this marks Brandon’s second Academy production. He has previously appeared in Romeo and Juliet (Prince) and A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Oberon) at El Marino. Exploring his artistic possibilities Brandon was a student of Afro-Caribbean dance and participated in the Dance Concert. Further involvement at CCHS includes the Tolerance club, the French club, and the Doyle Hanks Comedy Club at the middle school. Brandon would like to take this opportunity to thank his family, CariAnn Henderson, Lisa Michelle, Darryl Hovis, Stacey Wilson, Joseph Horn and the entire cast and crew for all their efforts and support. [top]

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Iman (Asaka - Mother of Earth) Iman is no stranger to the stage, having performed in Tommy (Ensemble), Footloose (Wendy-Jo) and the Dance Off! in 2004. In addition to Academy activities this active and ambitious junior displayed her paintings in Java IX and is a dancer at Debbie Allan’s Academy. Creatively, Iman explores her talents playing bass in punk-rock bands sure to soar the charts. With never ending energy she raised Culver spirit as a cheerleader for the 2002-2003 school year. Iman wishes to thank the lovely CariAnn, Wonderful Ms. Michel, and Awesome Papa Hovis. Yet most especially, she would like to thank her super cool and amazing mother and beloved Aunty Angie (1967-2004). [top]

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Stefanie (Timoune) A gifted junior, Stefanie continues to wow with each performance. Taking the stage in Wizard of Oz (Dorothy), Once on this Island (Mama Euralie), Bugsy Malone (Tallulah), Into the Woods (Backer’s Wife) and more with Dee-lightful Productions. Performances within the Academy comprise of BatBoy: the Musical (Ensemble), The Biggest Game of All (Lupe), Tommy (Band Singer), Footloose (Ethel McCormack), Cabaret, and Java IX, X. In addition, she has also participated in music productions with the Pink Elephant Music Company. Stefanie continues to contribute to the Culver High community through SIAC, Latinos Unidos, Best Buddies, and Junior Class Council. Actively, the list goes on to include Youth and Government, babysitting Knight’s kids, and working at Flavor and Flair. Stefanie would like to thank her Mom, Dad, and brother for supporting her through thick and thin. She would also like to express gratitude for all of her friends, especially, Tiffy Wiffy, Ben-Ben, Dana Bana, Sara, and Sam. Lastly she would like to share her appreciation for Hovis, Stacey, Spano, and of course Ms. Michel and CariAnn. “Thank you all for believing in me, I hope I make everyone proud!” [top]

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Daryl (Storyteller) A senior, Daryl is excited to be a part of this musical production. Past AVPA credits include Waiting for Godot (Lucky), Twelfth Night (Feste), Tommy (Band Singer), BatBoy: the Musical (Mrs. Taylor/Roy), Footloose (Darlene), Dracula (Singer), Cabaret Night, and Java Drama VIII, IX. She explores and enriches her passions in attending classes for dance and at West L.A. Daryl extends sincere gratitude to Hovis, CariAnn Henderson, Stacy Wilson, Camille (Mz. Pchiz) Woolfolk, and all her cast-mates and crewmates. [top]

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Lauren (Dancer) Lauren is one artistically talented and active sophomore at CCHS sure to reach success. Early performances include Culver City Middle School’s Leader of the Pack: The Ellie Greenwich Musical (Shelly) and the Flower Drum Song (Helen Chia). With AVPA she has participated in Culver Becomes Eclectic, Java Drama X, season musicals, and Dance Off. She also appeared at the Phoenix, performing with Brando Mistu Hiro Kai. Lauren would like to say thanks to the LOSER SQUAD, the cast, her family, and everyone else. “If you’re not listed in here please blame my head and not my heart. I love you guys!” [top]

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Penelope (Erzulie) Penelope is ecstatic to be cast in AVPA’s Once on this Island. This is her sixth production and second year with the Academy, and she is enjoying every moment of it! Previous roles include Godspell (Sonia) and School House Rock, Live! (Kristy/Sarah) with the Young Academy of Dramatic Arts. She appeared in H.M.S. Pinafore (Josefine) with the L.A. Center for Enriched Studies. Among these credits, AVPA performances consist of Gint (Old Woman), Cabaret Night, Footloose (Chuck’s Bad Girl), The Stronger (Mrs. X), Java Drama X, and Dracula (Mrs. Harker). Penelope enjoys playing piano and singing and would like to give great thanks to her directors, cast and crew, Stacey, and her mentor, Darryl Hovis for this wonderful opportunity. [top]