Rock spectacle meets side-splitting comedy in JOSEPH & THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT

Fresh of the success of a “delightful” and “properly goofy” production of LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, The Devon Theater has re-imagined the musical theatre classic, JOSEPH & THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT. Not to be outdone by a giant singing plant, JOSEPH promises audiences an electrifying rainbow ride through biblical Egypt. The production, on stage November 11th - December 13th, will feature a pared down cast of just 14 performers – fourteen performers doing the work of forty. According to Assoc. Artistic Director Kimberly Reilly, “Many productions of JOSEPH find themselves weighed down by unreasonably large casts. Putting an entire children’s choir on stage can prove to be terribly distracting to audiences. You’ve got kids picking their noses, trying desperately to conceal their boredom on stage…it can really take away from what is – in reality – a very simple story. Paring down the cast to 14 knock-out actors is a great opportunity to showcase the work, talent, and enthusiasm of some triple-threat performers.”

The Devon Theater’s production will feature eight men and six women playing each and every role in this classic story. Written by musical theatre masterminds, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, JOSEPH is an irresistibly hilarious re-telling of the story of Joseph, his jealous brothers, and one very loud garment. A vibrant and colorful story, JOSEPH will have you singing and dancing in your seats to songs that span musical genres from calypso to rock to disco to country. This worldwide phenomenon has been an audience favorite for more than thirty-five years, and The Devon Theater is bringing it to life in a whole new way!

Leading off the cast of JOSEPH is Liz Filios in the iconic role of the Narrator. Liz has worked in India, South Africa, and Italy, but now calls Philadelphia home. Liz was seen most recently in The Arden Theatre’s Barrymore Award winning production of Candide as Cunegonde. Critics called her performance “dazzling,” “a phenomenon” and touted the newcomer’s talents – which include “a gleaming high soprano voice, good looks and a sense of humor.” Liz’s otherworldly voice has charmed Philadelphia audiences at The Wilma Theater (Eurydice, The Life of Galileo), The New Candlelight Theater (Lend Me a Tenor, Hello Dolly! ), and The Walnut Street Theatre (Les Miserables). She holds a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre from the University of Michigan and has performed as a vocalist with The Philadelphia Orchestra, the International Opera Theater in Italy, and the Cape Town Opera Company.

Matthew Morley Rusk joins us from Wilmington, Delaware to take on the role of Joseph. Matthew first stepped into the spotlight at Cab Calloway School of the Arts, and he has been performing ever since. His father, John Morley Rusk, is a well-established film director and producer - most well known for his collaboration with M. Night Shyamalan on films like The Sixth Sense, The Village, Unbreakable, Lady in the Water, Signs and The Happening. “It was cool growing up around such creative, inspirational adults,” says Matthew, “I think it really had a big impact on my growth as an artist and a performer.” This production marks Matthew’s second time playing the role of Joseph, and also his Philadelphia theatre debut. While attending Villanova University, Matthew pursued his love of music with the university choral, a capella, and theatre groups, but ultimately earned his degree in Marketing & Entrepreneurship. “I have been dying to get back on stage, and I am so excited that I have the opportunity to play my favorite role again.”

The supporting cast for JOSEPH features local talents as well as actors from all over the nation. Jason Russell portrays the patriarch of the family, Jacob, along with tackling two other hefty comedic roles (Potiphar & The Baker). Jason was recently seen as Dave in The Full Monty at Bucks County Playhouse, and as Eddie in The Rocky Horror Show at The Academy Theatre. Originally from Trenton, New Jersey, Jason has recently relocated to South Philadelphia, and has begun to make a name for himself around town as a man who can (and will) make you laugh.

Patricia Mayer promises some provocative dance moves as the seductress, Potiphar’s Wife, and a load of personality as the brother Naphtali. Having recently moved from Utah, Patricia earned her degree in Musical Theatre from Weber State University, and has received acting, dance, and vocal training in LA, and New York. Recent roles include maid in Dirty Rotten Scoundrels at the Walnut Street Theatre, Geminae in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum and Rita in White Christmas (Park City Egyptian Theatre), and Lydia in All My Sons at The Grand Theatre, Salt Lake City, Utah.

Newton Buchanan (Judah) is a Philadelphia-based theater artist, lauded by critics for his “golden voice,” good humor, and versatility. He brings all of these qualities to his featured performance in the reggae-themed musical number “Benjamin Calypso.” According to The Philadelphia Inquirer, Buchanan “slips into roles as if he were several Newton Buchanans,” a talent documented by the wide range of roles listed on his resume – everything from Prince Charming to Othello to Bob Crachitt. Newton recently appeared as Student 3 in the Philadelphia premiere of Shakespeare’s R & J with Mauckingbird Theatre Company. He has appeared in several Curio Theatre productions, including the original comedy “Funeral, Farce, and Road" by Jim Cartwright, and has been featured in over thirty productions with Hedgerow Theatre.

Jeremy Sartin (Gad) joins us from the far South and West to channel his inner Elvis as the hip-shimmying Egyptian Pharaoh. Jeremy holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Northern Kentucky University, but is originally from Nashville, TN. He has worked in Kentucky, Arizona, Chicago, Cincinnati, and Montana as well as right here in Philadelphia. Jeremy was awarded a Walnut Street Theatre Acting Apprenticeship 2007-8, and has been seen on the Walnut stage in A Christmas Carol and Cinderella.

Justin Damm (Reuben), originally from Long Island, New York, brings some knee-slapping comedy to his rendition of “One More Angel in Heaven” & the “Hoe-down.” Justin is a recent graduate of Villanova's Masters of Theatre program, where he played Bobby Strong in their Barrymore Award nominated production of Urinetown, Solyony in The Three Sisters and Goat in The Robber Bridegroom. Since graduating, Justin played Jimmy in New Candlelight's Thoroughly Modern Millie, Daniel in Theater Horizon's Once on this Island, Bruhs in Tom Wilson Weinberg's Sixty Years with Bruhs and Gean, Dennis in The Hedgerow's Smoke on the Mountain, Joseph Garcin in Media Theater's No Exit and recently returned from a national tour playing Finicky Fox in Pinocchio. Justin is an active writer, director, and performer for his sketch comedy group The Action Section.

Chad S. Parsons (Simeon) springs from nearby Easton, PA, though he brings a truly Parisian attitude to his performance of “Those Canaan Days.” Chad is a West Chester University graduate with his degree in Musical Theatre, last seen in Show Boat at The Media Theatre. He was recently featured in the Roxy Regional Theatre’s production of Altar Boyz as Abraham and RENT as Steve in Clarksville, Tennessee. Chad recently finished performing as a singer on board Norwegian Cruise Lines and is very happy to be back on land. Some of Chad’s favorite credits include: (Mendel/Bottle Dancer) in Fiddler on the Roof at The Fulton Opera House and (Tinman) in The Wizard of OZ with the Ocean City Pops Orchestra.

Alisa Stamps (Levi) hails from La Crosse, Wisconsin, and was recently seen in the Fulton Theatre’s production of Les Miserables. Other regional credits include: “Velma Von Tussle”(u/s-performed) in Hairspray at Walnut Street Theatre, Directed by Charles Abbott; “Ensemble/Dance Captain” in My Fair Lady and “Joanie/Jeanette u/s” in The Full Monty, both at Media Theatre; “Lulu/Betty in Footloose at New Candlelight Dinner Theatre; “Good Witch/Em” in Wizard of Oz at Storybook Musical Theatre; “Carly” at the Rainbow Dinner Theatre; Peter Nero and Philly Pops; and “Breaking the Rules” with Denyce Graves and Patti LaBelle (PBS Television & The Mann Music Center). Alisa is an accomplished dancer and music educator.

Dan V Plehal (Dan) joins us from Virginia, having recently graduated from the College of William & Mary with his degree in theatre. At W&M, Dan was the President of Alpha Psi Omega, his Theatre Honors Fraternity. Previous credits include Jason (Bare, D.C. Premiere), Spindler (Mnemonic), Willard (Footloose), and Bobby Child (Crazy for You). Dan has also directed for the Sinfonicron Light Opera Company’s productions of The Secret Garden and The Pirates of Penzance and is a professional photographer.

Jennie Knackstedt (Asher), a Philadelphia native, returns to The Devon after acting as the primary understudy for The Devon’s inaugural production, Nunsense. Jennie attended the competitive magnet school, the Philadelphia High School for Girls, and graduated with her degree in Musical Theatre from West Chester University. Jennie’s powerful voice was showcased recently in productions such as the Ritz Theatre’s production of Evita (Eva), Sweeney Todd (Mrs. Lovett), Bat Boy (Meredith), The Who’s Tommy (Mrs. Walker), Cabaret (Kost).

Kristen Norine (Zebulon), of Utica, NY, just graduated from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia with her B.F.A in Musical Theatre. When Kristen was sixteen, she was accepted into the prestigious New York State Summer School of the Arts, where she studied acting, voice, speech and movement. Kristen was seen recently in the UArts productions Quake (That Woman) and ‘Tis Pity She’s a Whore (Hippolita). She performed in Ballad Boys (Amy) with Aspire Arts, Inc., and The Importance of Being Earnest (Algernon) for the Philadelphia Gay and Lesbian Theatre Festival.

Desiree Matthews (Benjamin), a resident of Red Lion, PA, just graduated from DeSales University with her bachelors in theatre. Desiree recently played Darlene in The Honky Tonk Angels at the Pines Dinner Theatre, and her favorite university credits include Celeste #2 in Sunday in the Park with George, Pal in Aladdin, Ethel/Millie u/s in Thoroughly Modern Millie.

Brian Peeke (Issachar), from Medford, New Jersey, earned his BFA from Temple University. Brian has been featured in a variety of regional / touring shows including: Footloose with New Candlelight (Willard), Cabaret with Best of Broadway in CA (Emcee), Sleeping Beauty with American Family Theatre (Frince Fedka), Hedwig... with Midnite Radio Productions (Hedwig/Tommy), & Godspell with the Christian Creative Artists Outreach EurAsian Tour (Jesus).

Heading up the artistic team are a bunch of fresh Philadelphia faces, excited to be re-defining a musical theatre classic in a brand new space. JOSEPH marks the Philadelphia debut of Kimberly Reilly (Director), who hails from King of Prussia, PA. Previously, Kimberly worked closely with Villanova Theatre and Theatre Horizon. She joined the Fuse Management staff at The Devon full-time in May of 2009, after earning her Master's Degree in Theatre from Villanova University. Kimberly fell in love with directing and arts administration during her years at Villanova - and after only five months at The Devon, she has stepped in as the Associate Artistic Director for the company.

Matt Silva (Director) of Wynnewood, PA, also earned his Master's Degree in Theatre from Villanova University, where he discovered his passion and gift for directing. Matt has previously Assistant Directed at The Arden Theatre Company for Rabbit Hole, Act II Playhouse for Boeing Boeing, and The Kimmel Center for Give my Regards to Broadway and The Fantasticks. Upcoming projects include AD’ing for Tony Braithwaite on Mauckingbird’s Tru and for Matt Decker on Theatre Horizon’s Fat Pig. For several years now, Matt has also assistant directed shows at his beloved alma mater, St. Joseph’s Prep.

Collin Maier (Musical Director) of Bridgeton, NJ was recently nominated for a Barrymore Award in Musical Direction for critically acclaimed It’s a Wonderful Life! A Live Radio Play with The Prince Music Theatre. Collin has worked for many theaters including the Prince Music Theater, Media Theatre, Society Hill Playhouse, Act II Playhouse, and the Walnut Street Theatre as an musical director, arranger, and accompanist. Collin also supplements Independent studies at Westminster Choir College, Eastman School for Music, The Tabuman Institue, and The Esther Boyer College of Music at Temple University.

Angela Wertner (Choreographer), of Havertown, PA, returns to the Devon following her role as Sister Mary Amnesia in the wildly successful production of Nunsense. Angela choreographed for the Devon’s inaugural production of Nunsense, and recently choreographed Camelot at The Media Theatre. A graduate of DeSales University, Angela has worked with theatre companies such as the Walnut Street Theatre, Media Theatre, New Candlelight Theatre, Devon Theatre, The Kimmel Center and the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival. Currently Angela teaches all levels and various styles of dance at Kicks Academy of Dance in Glenn Mills, PA.

JOSEPH provides yet another opportunity for the community to experience the exhilaration of live theatre in the newly renovated, state-of-the art Devon Theater. Conveniently located on Frankford Avenue, The Devon provides incomparable value, professional performers, impressive scenic design, and high quality entertainment to communities in the Northeast and the Greater Philadelphia area. The Devon Theater was established in 2009 to serve its community, enhance the physical environment, increase the economic vitality and improve the quality of life in the Mayfair Community and beyond. The Devon Theater is committed to providing programming that will entertain, engage, educate, and inspire our audiences through a vital and dynamic program of theater, entertainment, performances, projects, and events the whole family can enjoy. In addition to in-house theatrical productions, the Devon presents concerts, comedians, family attractions, dance, and educational programming throughout the year. The Devon boasts a volunteer base totaling almost 400 individuals devoted to keeping the performing arts alive and well in their community. Come see what the fuss is all about!

Evening performances will run Thursday - Saturday at 7pm, with matinees on Saturday and Sunday at 2pm. The run of JOSEPH will also feature two special mid-week matinees on Thursday 11/19 and Friday 11/27 at 2pm - perfect performances for a large groups & family outings! Experience the magic of Opening Night on Thurs, 11/12 at 7pm, and stick around afterwards to meet the cast and crew. Order early and save by purchasing a five-show season subscription at the unbelievable value of just $100. You will receive preferential seating, advance notice of upcoming events, special deals, promotions, and more! To purchase tickets or to subscribe online, visit www.devontheater.org or call us at 215-338-6300.

FACT SHEET FOR JOSEPH & THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT
Produced by Fuse Management & The Mayfair CDC @ The Devon Theater

PERF. DATES/TIMES:
11/11/09 – Preview Performance, 7pm
11/12/09 - Opening Night, 7pm
11/13/09 - Friday Evening, 7pm
11/14/09 - Saturday Matinee, 2pm
11/14/09 - Saturday Evening, 7pm
11/15/09 - Sunday Matinee, 2pm
11/19/09 - Thursday Matinee, 2pm
11/19/09 - Thursday Evening, 7pm
11/20/09 - Friday Evening, 7pm
11/21/09 - Saturday Matinee, 2pm
11/21/09 - Saturday Evening, 7pm
11/22/09 - Sunday Matinee, 2pm
11/27/09 - Friday Matinee, 2pm
11/27/09 - Friday Evening, 7pm
11/28/09 - Saturday Matinee, 2pm
11/28/09 - Saturday Evening, 7pm
11/29/09 - Sunday Matinee, 2pm
12/03/09 - Thursday Evening, 7pm
12/04/09 - Friday Evening, 7pm
12/05/09 - Saturday Matinee, 2pm
12/05/09 - Saturday Evening, 7pm
12/06/09 - Sunday Matinee, 2pm
12/10/09 - Thursday Evening, 7pm
12/11/09 - Friday Evening, 7pm
12/12/09 - Saturday Matinee, 2pm
12/12/09 - Saturday Evening, 7pm
12/13/09 - Sunday Matinee, 2pm

THEATRE: Produced by Fuse Management, LLC & The Mayfair CDC at the Devon Theater

LOCATION: Devon Theater, 6333 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19135

TICKET PRICES: $25; $15 Preview, $15 Student Rush

SPONSORS: Coca-Cola Philadelphia Bottling Company

PRESS INFORMATION: Kimberly Reilly, Associate Artistic Director: kreilly@fusemanagement.net

TICKET INFORMATION: Buy online at www.devontheater.org; Call 215-338-6300; Purchase in person at our box office: 6319 Frankford Ave, Phila. PA 19135. Cash or credit - same price. No service fees.

ABOUT THE DEVON:
The Devon Theater was established in 2009 to serve its community, enhance the physical environment, increase the economic vitality and improve the quality of life in the Mayfair Community and beyond. Local community goals include developing and implementing programs that encourage commercial partnerships, creating employment opportunities, and developing cultural programs for the population of Mayfair. The Devon Theater will be a part of the community and collaborate with other organizations to attract programs and services that will enhance the community and all its residents. We are committed to providing programming that will entertain, engage, educate, and inspire our audiences through a vital and dynamic program of theater, entertainment, performances, projects, and events the whole family can enjoy, making an essential contribution to the quality of the arts and life in our community and beyond.

CREATIVE STAFF
KIMBERLY REILLY, Director
MATT SILVA, Director
COLLIN MAIER, Musical Director
ANGELA WERTNER, Choreographer
VERONICA AGLOW, Stage Manager

PERFORMERS
ALISA STAMPS, Levi
BRIAN PEEKE, Issachar
CHAD PARSONS, Simeon
DESIREE MATTHEWS, Benjamin
DAN V. PLEHAL, Dan/Butler
JUSTIN DAMM, Reuben
JEREMY SARTIN, Gad/Pharaoh
JENNIE KNACKSTEDT, Asher
JASON RUSSEL, Jacob/Potiphar/Baker
KRISTEN NORINE, Zebulon
LIZ FILIOS, Narrator
MATTHEW RUSK, Joseph
NEWTON BUCHANAN, Judah
PATRICIA MAYER, Naphtali/Potiphar's Wife

DESGINERS
JEFF CEBULA, Lighting Designer
FOSTER CHILDERS, Sound Designer
BRAD HELM, Set Designer
KATHRYN RAUCH, Costume Designer