Digital Program
FIRST, CONTACT
Music and Lyrics by Chris Blacker
Book by Romie Faienza
Directed by Jessica Wu
Music Direction by Chris Blacker
Movement Direction by Brandon Collwes
Setting
A mostly empty restaurant/bar in a small midwestern city.
Cast
Noah……………RJ Christian
Memphis……………Andrea J. Love*
Social Media 1……………Evan Michael Smith
Social Media 2……………Gabrielle Filloux*
Social Media 3……………Claire Cooney
* Indicates member of Actors’ Equity Association.
Songs
Contact – Social Media Choir
Hell of a Day – Noah and Memphis
Contact Part 2 – Full Company
Father’s Telescope – Noah and Memphis
Hell of a Day Reprise – Noah and Memphis
Contact Part 3 – Noah and Social Media Choir
Musicians
Chris Blacker (Keyboard)
BIOS
THE WRITERS
Chris Blacker (Music and Lyrics, Music Direction) Chris Blacker is a pianist, composer, and lyricist. His musical, The Lady Takes The Mic was a semifinalist at the National Musical Theater Conference (2022), and he is a member of the Advanced BMI Musical Theater Workshop. He was a winner of the 2006 ASCAP Foundation Young Jazz Composer Awards, and has released four albums to date. Chris currently lives in New York City where he works as a collaborative pianist at New York University, piano bar entertainer, freelance musical director, and arranger. He is thrilled to be a part of Sound Bites XII. www.chrisblacker.com
Romie Faienza (Book) Romie Faienza (aka Romie Stott) is a filmmaker and science fiction and horror author with a Masters degree from the London Film School. Her movies and short plays have been presented at the Dallas Museum of Art, the National Gallery in London, the ICA Boston, and in festivals around the world. Her writing has been published by Analog, The Deadlands, The Toast, and Atlas Obscura, among others. Her first novel, Nothing in the Basement, about a haunted house and a failing marriage, is forthcoming from Dybbuk Press. She is administrative editor of the Hugo award-winning fiction magazine Strange Horizons. She is also half of the electronica duo Stopwalk.
THE CAST
RJ Christian (Noah) RJ Christian is an NYU Steinhart grad and member of the BMI Lehman Engel Music Theatre Workshop. RJ Contributed Music and Lyrics to the Ratatouille TikTok Musical and can be heard as Macgyver on the Macgyver the Musical Cast Album. RJ is the cofounder and resident composer for The Hearty Meal Theatre company. He’s currently a swing in Dungeons and Dragons: The Twenty Sided Tavern and repped by Hells Kitchen Agency. @RJtheComposer @Theheartymeal
C.S.E. Cooney (Social Media 3): C. S. E. Cooney is a two-time World Fantasy Award-winning author: for novel Saint Death’s Daughter, and collection Bone Swans, Stories. As a voice actor, Cooney has narrated over 120 audiobooks, short fiction and poetry for podcasts, and actual plays of D&D on Twitch and YouTube. In March 2023, she produced her collaborative sci-fi musical, Ballads from a Distant Star, at New York City’s Arts on Site. Forthcoming from Outland Entertainment is the GM-less TTRPG Negocios Infernales, co-designed with her husband, writer and game-designer Carlos Hernandez. Find her website, Substack newsletter, and various social media under “csecooney.”
Gabrielle Filloux (Social Media 2): Recent Credits: Off-Broadway: The Z Team (Tiffany) at Theatre Row, More Than This World (Diane) at The York Theatre Company, The Office! A Musical Parody (Angela & Others, dance capt.) at The Jerry Orbach Nat’l Tour/Cruise: Hairspray (Penny) & Flight (Katie) at RCCL, The Office! A Musical Parody Regional: Goodspeed Musicals, Hartford Stage, Cabrillo Stage, TheaterWorks, New London Barn Playhouse Workshops: Five: The Musical Parody (Marla Maples), White Rose: The Musical (Sophie Scholl), various new works with TRW, BMI Lehman Engel MT Workshop, TNNY, and NETC. I love new works!!! IG: @gabrielle_filloux, http://www.gabriellefilloux.com
Andrea J. Love (Memphis) Andrea J. Love is an NYC-based writer, composer, performer, and teacher. As an AEA actor, she has worked with The 5th Avenue Theatre, San Francisco Shakespeare Festival, Capital Stage Company, Sacramento Theatre Company, and Davis Shakespeare Festival. She is a member of the BMI Lehman Engel Musical Theatre Workshop as both a lyricist and book writer. Recent projects include: The Parts I Keep Inside, Good Earth, several State of California-commissioned animated musical educational videos ("Zoonotic Flu" & others), and the 10-minute musical Tiktaalik: The Musical co-written with Alex Ngo and featured in last year’s Sound Bites Festival.
Evan Michael Smith (Social Media 1) Evan Michael Smith is an award-winning actor and singer with a dynamic career spanning Broadway, regional theatre, national tours, and international festivals. Known for his powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence, he has captivated audiences in productions like The Waiting, Fired, and Antonio at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. He has also toured with legendary acts such as The Drifters and Peter Yarrow. With a background in diverse musical styles, from rock and soul to classic Broadway, Evan continues to bring passion and authenticity to every performance. Follow his journey on Instagram: @The_Evan_Michael_Smith.
THE CREATIVE TEAM
Jessica Wu (Director) Jessica Wu is an award-winning playwright, director, songwriter, dramaturg, and Broadway-dancer-in-a-past-life (A Chorus Line, Miss Saigon). Directing credits include multiple seasons at TheatreNow NY's Soundbites and Raleigh's Women's Theatre Festival, new works by Bluebird Theatre Company, Revolutionary Youth Theatre, and at Montgomery College in Washington, DC. Writing credits include Hello Kitty Must Die (Alchemation, Edinburgh Fringe 2023), You, Me, I, We (Relentless Musical Award, semi-finalist; O’Neill Conference, semi-finalist), and Good Mourning (American Theatre Blue Ink Award, finalist). Jessica is a member of the Dramatists Guild and the BMI Workshop, and serves as Artistic Producer at Brooklyn Children's Theatre. www.jessica-wu.com
Brandon Collwes (Movement Director) Brandon Collwes joined the Merce Cunningham Dance Company in January 2006, where he danced until the close of the Company in 2011 in the final Legacy World Tour. He has been a member of the Liz Gerring Dance Company since 2012 and is currently rehearsal director. He also has performed with Sally Silvers Dance and the Stephen Petronio Dance Company. Brandon currently teaches Cunningham Technique at DeWitt Clinton High School, stages the work of Merce Cunningham for the Merce Cunningham Trust, and choreographs his own pieces which have been presented in NYC and abroad. He is also an abstract painter.
How Do You Milk an Almond?
Music, Lyrics & Book by Kevin Sherwin
Music Direction by Sawyer Dahlen
Choreographed by Curtis Howard
Directed by Kevin Sherwin
How Do You Milk an Almond? is a sharp-witted courtroom musical satire that explores the intersection of the legal system, food production, and animal rights. When the Almond Lovers Coalition of America is sued over the word “milk,” two lawyers face off in a heated trial filled with unexpected twists and bold musical numbers.
Setting
A courtroom in the United States, present-day.
Cast
Almond Lawyer……………Margo Hera
Dairy Lawyer……………William Vosseler*
Emmett Tucker……………Cameron Reese
Judge……………Patricia M. Lawrence
News Announcer……………Emma Origenes
* Indicates member of Actors’ Equity Association.
Scenes & Songs
SCENE One - Dairy’s Argument
“How Do You Milk an Almond?” - Dairy Lawyer
SCENE Two - Almond’s Argument
“Milk Is What You Drink” - Almond Lawyer
SCENE Three - The Key Witness
SCENE Four - My Milk or the Highway
Reprise 1, “How Do You Milk an Almond?” - Emmett Tucker
SCENE Five - Cross-Examination
“The Taste Test” - Almond Lawyer, Emmett Tucker, Dairy Lawyer
SCENE Six - The Verdict
“A Tale of Two Milks” - Judge
SCENE Seven - Case Closed?
Reprise 2, “How Do You Milk an Almond?” - Company
Musicians
Sawyer Dahlen (Keyboard)
BIOS
THE WRITER
Kevin Sherwin (music, lyrics, book, director), he/him, is a writer, director, and animal activist. His show How Do You Milk an Almond? was originally a short film that premiered at the Yale Law School, won Best Musical at the Festival Internacional de Cine Animal y Ambiental (FICAA) in Mexico City and has screened at law schools around the country. As a musician, he has performed at Carnegie Hall, Joe’s Pub, and the Met Museum, and was on the jury for the Miami Film Festival. His original work has been produced by Independent Curators International, the Bruce Museum of Art, and others. www.kevinsherwin.com
THE CAST
Margo Hera (ALMOND LAWYER), she/her, is an emerging actor based in NYC. Recent credits include the devising ensemble of Night Witches presented by Pick Pocket Project, Ms. Fleming in Heathers: The Musical at The Milton Theatre, and Agnes Toller in the Wyldewood Players at the Sterling Renaissance Festival. She is on the musical improv team Elevator Pitch (@elevatorpitchimprov), hosts the standup open mic Femmes and Friends (femmesandfriendsmic), and is the lyricist of the new musical The Schmidt Sisters: A Revolutionary Situation (@theschmidtsisters). Catch her next as Lead Engineer Stef Merrick in the new musical Space Elevator at Caveat May 9th. @margohera
Patricia M. Lawrence (JUDGE) is thrilled to be back doing Sound Bites! Off B’way and Regional: Fifi in Furever Home and Doris in The Hollow at The Players Theatre; Dowager Empress in Anastasia at White Plains Performing Arts Center; Swing for the new Ahrens and Flaherty musical Knoxville at Asolo Repertory Theatre; and Ensemble/Norma Understudy in Sunset Boulevard at The John W. Engeman Theatre. TV: The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and The Blacklist. www.patriciamlawrence.com
Emma Origenes (NEWS ANNOUNCER) is a dedicated young artist with a deep love for musical theatre. She trains vocally with esteemed coaches Sam Sultan and Anne Brummel. A versatile dancer, Emma studies both Irish Step Dance and Latin Ballroom, and is a proud member of the Junior Division at Alvin Ailey, where she continues to develop her technique and performance skills. She is grateful to be part of How Do You Milk an Almond? and is excited to contribute to this unique and inspiring project.
Cameron Reese (EMMETT TUCKER) is a Brooklyn based writer and performer. He was most recently seen onstage in The Heartiest Time Of Year with The Hearty Meal Theater Company.
William Vosseler (DAIRY FARMER) William would like to use his first professional bio to thank his teachers: Brunner, Krieman, Dean, Naydan, Barsky, Raff, Mikkal, Marron, Hayes, Fischer, Maslov, Scholtz, Adams, Armstrong, Amundson, Gilchrist, Hardy, Schwing, Coulter, Guignard, Roach, Howard, Black, Lincoln, Ruckles, Newton. Special thanks to Lori Kay & Sam Ikhwan for their support and for reading my emails at 3 AM.
THE CREATIVE TEAM
Sawyer Dahlen (Music Director) is a junior at the Bard College Conservatory, pursuing degrees in Piano Performance and Global & International Studies. A classically trained pianist with a passion for musical theater, she recently served as Assistant Music Director/Keyboardist for Sweeney Todd at Columbia University and was an Associate Conductor at the College Light Opera Company’s 2024 season. Other credits include Urinetown, Rent, Pippin, and Heathers. She has premiered works at Carnegie Hall and frequently accompanies Bard’s voice program and chamber ensembles. Sawyer has also studied at the Mannes School of Music, Kinhaven Music School, and the Chamber Music Center of NY.
Curtis Howard (Choreographer), he/him, is an NYC-based actor, dancer, theatremaker, and creative producer. He’s performed with Hideaway Circus, danced for Anthony Rapp in Daedalus Lounge, and played Action in West Side Story. Offstage, Curtis has tech-directed dozens of off-Broadway shows, built sets citywide, and crafted pieces for Ringling Bros. He’s Production Manager for Theater Now New York and House/Facilities Manager at Theater 555. He also produces for Cole Jazz and the NEW Jack Cole Dancers, bakes for his business Ringmaster Sourdough, and is developing a one-man show, We Are the Reason: A Love Letter to Theater, premiering Fall 2025.
Bex Jones (Costume Designer), they/them, is a costumer designer based in New York City. They are currently a junior at Marymount Manhattan College where they are pursuing a BFA in Theatre Design and Technology with a concentration in Costumes as well as a minor in Studio Art. They love the collaborative process of theatre design and working with others to create a unique world on stage. They especially love costume crafts, fine detail work, and designs that allow them to think outside of the box. Outside of theatre, Bex likes to continue their artistic endeavors through printmaking, tattooing, and collaging.
King Rat
Music, Lyrics & Book by John Coyne
Music Direction by John Coyne
Directed by Andrew Mullins
An insane musical sketch about what to do with a Rat who shows up in your mailbox. It's about Rats, but also about other deeper stuff as well. It's mostly about Rats.
Setting
Your apartment
Cast
KING RAT……………RJ Christian
Zach……………Zach Fike Hodges*
Harold……………Jensen Sirmon
Gentle Sam……………Terrence Dugan
Rat Boy……………Yassi Noubahar
* Indicates member of Actors’ Equity Association.
Scenes & Songs
“I’m King Rat” – King Rat & Rat Boys
“When My Boys…” - King Rat & Rat Boys
“What Do You Do” – Zach
Musicians
John Coyne (Piano)
BIOS
THE WRITER
John Coyne (Book, Music, Lyrics, and Music Director) John is a musical theatre songwriter, performer, multi-instrumentalist and dramatist interested in the bizarre intersection of alt-comedy, physical theatre, and musical theatre. His music has been heard at 54 Below, Chelsea Table+Stage, Greenroom 42, Musical Theatre West, The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, and all the other usual spots. Off-Broadway: Krymov Lab NYC's Metamorphoses… (Actor, Musician), BEDLAM's Uncle Romeo Vanya Juliet (Performer, Original Music). He is currently working on an adventurous adaptation of Virginia Woolf's Mrs. Dalloway. John is a nominee for the 2023-2024 Marvin Hamlisch International Music Award. BFA: Pace University. johncoynejohncoyne.com
THE CAST
RJ Christian (King Rat) RJ is an NYU Steinhart grad and member of the BMI Lehman Engel Music Theatre Workshop. RJ Contributed Music and Lyrics to the Ratatouille TikTok Musical and can be heard as Macgyver on the Macgyver the Musical Cast Album. RJ is the cofounder and resident composer for The Hearty Meal Theatre company. He’s currently a swing in Dungeons and Dragons: The Twenty Sided Tavern and repped by Hells Kitchen Agency. @RJtheComposer @Theheartymeal
Terrence Dugan (Gentle Sam) is a stand up comedian, actor, and amazing singer. He’s the co-founder of T4T, the first monthly all-trans comedy show in New York City and possibly ever. Follow him at @the_terrence_zone on Instagram for updates on his production of Fun Home the musical where he plays all the roles. Love you :)
Zach Fike Hodges (Zach): Film: Eleanor the Great (dir. Scarlett Johannson); My Bird Is Sick! (w Janeane Garofalo, exec produced by Cate Blanchett and Coco Francini’s Dirty Films + Netflix). Select Theatre: Angels in America I and II (Elliot Norton nom - Outstanidng Featured Performance, Bedlam); RENT in Concert (Kennedy Center/Nat’l Symp Orch); Arcadia (Bedlam); Metamorphoses (KrymovLab NYC/LaMama); Book of Will (dir. Davis McCallum, Hudson Valley Shakes); Riddle of the Trilobites (dir. Lee Sunday Evans); Love’s Labour’s Lost (The Acting Co.) Teaching Artist at New York Theatre Workshop and HV Shakes. MA Royal Central, BA Fordham. @zfike zachfikehodges.com
Yassi Noubahar (Rat Boy) Yassi is thrilled to be portraying her most personal role to date. Past credits include A New Brain @ Celebration Theatre and One Thousand and One Nights @ Prospect Theatre. Pace MT!
Jensen Sirmon (Harold) Jensen is excited to be making her (non-cabaret) New York stage debut at Merkin Hall. She has performed in concerts at 54 Below, The Green Room 42, and Chelsea Table + Stage. Jensen is also excited to be reuniting with Andrew Mullins, who directed a 29-Hour Reading of her play, Cleo's Torch Song, last year. Thanks to Andrew and John for this opportunity!
THE CREATIVE TEAM
Andrew Mullins (he/him) (Director) Andrew is a New York City-based director and facilitator with a focus on working with writers and performers on the creation of new work in theater, musical theater, solo performance, and cabaret. His work is often rooted in queerness, pop culture, and camp. Recent credits include DORIS conceived and performed by Joan Nelson (Theater 154), Wife Material by Sydney Kane (Greenroom 42), Jet, Live! (Under St Marks Theater), OUT: A Queer Songbook by Jaron Barney (54 Below), I Am My Own Milf conceived by Matthew Antoci (Frigid NYC Fringe), John Coyne’s Center of the Universe (Chelsea Table + Stage), and autobiographical solo show by Maggie Metnick titled 12 Year Old Boys, My Mom, and Other Things That Make Me Nervous (Breaking and Entering Theater Co). Education: Pace University, International Performance Ensemble Program. andrewjmullins.com
Moon Illusion
Book & Lyrics by Sair Kaufman
Music by Sair Kaufman & George Luton
Directed by Billy Eric Robinson
Music Direction by George Luton
Since the beginning of human consciousness, incisive observers have noticed that the moon looks bigger when it’s near the horizon. Between the musings of Aristotle, the scientific advancements of vision psychologist Lloyd Kaufman, and the grief of a mourning grandchild, the pursuit of a reason for this phenomenon weaves curiosity, science, and connection across time.
Setting(s)
Ancient Greece, a rooftop in 1960, a backyard in 2024.
Cast
Aristotle……………Evan Michael Smith*
Lloyd Kaufman……………Noah Weisbart*
Sair Kaufman……………Lyda Jade Harlan*
*Indicates member of Actors’ Equity Association.
Songs
“The Same Moon” – Aristotle
“Illusion” – Lloyd
“A Trick of the Eye” – Sair + Company
Musicians
Ammon Taylor (piano)
BIOS
THE WRITERS
Sair Kaufman (they/them) is a musical theatre writer and performer based in NYC. They create heartfelt and irreverent work that is inclusive of, and accessible to, the disabled community, with a special focus on Queer and Trans/GNC stories. Sair’s work has been featured in the New York Times, and Broadway World described their writing as “laugh-out-loud.” Recipient of the Danny Award for Original Song, finalist in the Write Out Loud Contest, and winner of the 48th Annual Samuel French Off-Off-Broadway Short Play Festival, they were selected for the BMI Advanced Musical Theatre Writers Workshop, the Johnny Mercer Songwriters Project, the Johnny Mercer Writer’s Grove, the Prospect Musical Theatre Lab, and Theatre Now’s Soundbites X Festival. Their work has also gone up at venues across the country. Sair also writes fantasy novels. @sairkaufman www.sairkaufman.com
George Luton (all pronouns) is a musical theatre composer of New York City, where their music has been heard off-Broadway at the York Theatre (More Than This World), at the Tank NYC (Alice, PreScripted, Of Sleepless Nights), at Off the Lane (Truth Dare or Lesbian) and at Lincoln Center (Helen & Cassandra: Gifts of the Gods, Face to Face), where they were awarded the Across a Crowded Room artistic fellowship through the NYPL Library of the Performing Arts this year. Favorite regional premieres include productions at Stage 284 (Earhart, Stiltskin), Moonlight Productions (Nottingham: The Legend of Robin Hood), Island Theatre Workshop (Boots, The Untold Story of Treasure Island), and In Vivo Productions (The Conditions of Readiness, Face Work). George has also served as composer-in-residence for educational institutions such as Columbia University School for the Arts (The Bakkhai) Boston Children’s Theatre (Apple and the Bear, Apple Plus), Plumfield Academy (Along the Way), and The Experimental Theatre of Vassar College (The Northern Skies, A Midsummer Night’s Dream), where they were a two-time recipient of the Jean-Slater Edson Prize in Composition. Most recently, George has been creating new piano and vocal arrangements for the Amazon Prime show Hazbin Hotel and the collaborative musical Open Stay, both composed by beloved BMI colleagues Andrew Underberg and Anna DeNoia, respectively. When not writing, arranging, music directing, or teaching, George tours as an improvisational pianist with the Broadway’s Next Hit Musical comedy show. Follow George @GeorgeLuton.music or learn more at www.GeorgeLuton.com
THE CAST
Lyda Jade Harlan (she/her) is a recent graduate from Manhattan School of Music where she received her B.M. in Musical Theatre. Her most recent credits include ANASTASIA (Anya) at Bucks County Playhouse and MAGGIE (Ensemble) at Goodspeed Opera House. She is happy to be back at the Soundbites Festival again this year after doing it a few years ago. IG: @lydaajadeee
Evan Michael Smith is an award-winning actor and singer with a dynamic career spanning Broadway, regional theatre, national tours, and international festivals. Known for his powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence, he has captivated audiences in productions like The Waiting, Fired, and Antonio at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. He has also toured with legendary acts such as The Drifters and Peter Yarrow. With a background in diverse musical styles, from rock and soul to classic Broadway, Evan continues to bring passion and authenticity to every performance. Follow his journey on Instagram: @The_Evan_Michael_Smith.
Noah Weisbart is a performer, composer, lyricist, multi-instrumentalist and recording engineer. He went on to get a BFA in Musical Theatre from The University of Michigan and later BMI workshop. His theatrical career began as a boy soprano at the Metropolitan Opera. He went on to get a BFA in Musical Theatre from The University of Michigan, later he attended BMI workshop. He wrote and performed in THE GREAT FALL at SOUND BITES ELEVEN. He has performed in many capacities (as a singer, guitarist, pianist, and more) at venues around New York City such as Joe’s Pub, 54 Below, and The Bowery Electric. He is eternally grateful to his parents for instilling in him a love of theatre, music, and good food!
THE CREATIVE TEAM
Billy Eric Robinson (they/them) is a Neuroqueer theatre maker, thrilled to return to Soundbites after directing Tiktaalik: The Musical last year. Billy creates theatre that leads with accessibility, community, and authentic representation. Most recently, they have worked as a director, dramaturg, deviser, actor, and stage manager with Epic Players, a neuro-inclusive theatre company. They also spent several years as a stage manager for Sleep No More at the McKittrick Hotel. Billy would like to thank their boyfriend, Oliver, for his love and support, as well as George Luton for bringing them onboard. Find Billy's Instagram: @BillyEricRobinson.
Ammon Taylor (piano) is an award-winning pianist, composer and music director. In addition to theatre, he works as an arts educator with multiple nonprofits throughout the city. He has extensive experience in comedy, and performs with various musical improv troupes and comedy theaters. His musical The Most Dangerous Woman in America was recently workshopped at the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. Ammon is a proud member of the Dramatists Guild and the BMI Lehman Engle Musical Theatre Workshop.
Mr. Garfunkel
Mr. Garfunkel
Music, Lyrics & Book by Scott Roberts
Music Direction by Mateo Lincoln
Directed by Sarah Connolly
In 1970, after recording the best-selling album of all time, Simon & Garfunkel broke up over creative disagreements. Paul Simon released a solo album the following year. Art Garfunkel taught high school Geometry.
Setting
A high school classroom in Litchfield, Connecticut, 1971
Cast
Art……………Andrew Faria*
Paul/Brian……………Nick Hornedo
Daphne……………Colette Élan Caspari
Kathy……………Julia Duffy
Scott……………Rodrigo Torrejón
* Indicates member of Actors’ Equity Association.
Scenes & Songs
Scene One – Classroom
“A Work Of Art” - Art
“The Final Exam” – Art
“Water Under The Bridge” – Art & Paul
Musicians
Scott Roberts (Guitar, Keyboard)
BIOS
THE WRITERS
Scott Roberts (Music, Lyrics & Book) is a writer and composer from San Diego. Since 2020 he has been writing and producing for top YouTube comedy creators, including Daniel Thrasher, Ryan George, and Julie Nolke, writing over 250 videos and songs with over 1.3 billion views. His work has earned a Streamy nomination for Outstanding Writing and a Logan Award for Outstanding Parody Song. He holds a B.A. in Anthropology and Music from Harvard, where he served as head writer of the Harvard Lampoon and composed the annual Hasty Pudding show, as well as an opera inspired by Afro-Cuban religious drumming. He lives in Brooklyn. Email: scottroberts1997@gmail.com.
THE CAST
Colette Élan Caspari (Daphne) is thrilled to be making her Theatre Now debut! Off-Broadway: The Adventures of Honey and Leon (Honey), Orlando: A New Musical (Sasha / Nell / Purity) *Select Regional: Ride the Cyclone (Constance Blackwood), Lizzie The Musical (Bridget), Sister Act (Mary Pat), and South Pacific in Concert with Andy Einhorn (Featured Nurse). Colette is a proud graduate of the Baldwin Wallace Music Theatre program. Big thanks to Mom, Andi, Randi, Stewie, and all of her buddies up in Harlem.
Julia Duffy (Kathy). Julia (she/her) is a New York City based actor and writer. Raised in northern Colorado, Julia can often be found wandering outside looking for trees to climb. Julia also makes cosplays of whatever has currently caught her fancy. Recently, Julia has created and produced the audio drama Things(Un)Said, which was submitted and workshopped at the Austin Film Festival in 2019 and again in 2020, where the pilot episode placed in the top 20 percent of all entries. Julia used to find writing about herself in third person annoying, until she realized it just brings her closer to her first hero, Elmo :)
Andrew Faria (Art) is extremely grateful to be playing Art Garfunkel in Mr. Garfunkel with the Soundbites Theatre Festival. Off-Broadway: A Guide for the Homesick. Opera: Dead Man Walking (The Metropolitan Opera). Theatre: Rent (Paper Mill Playhouse), Lewis Loves Clark (NAMT), Tony in West Side Story (Fireside Theatre), Seymour in Little Shop of Horrors (Great Lakes Theater/Idaho Shakespeare Festival), and Snoopy in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown (Forestburgh Playhouse). Bachelor of Music from Baldwin Wallace University. For Maria. @andyfaria_
Nick Hornedo (Paul/Brian) is a stand-up comedian based in Brooklyn, NY. His comedy has been featured on PBS, Vulture, and Pod Save America. Nick’s solo show, Watch This When You Get Home, will be making its international debut at the 2025 Edinburgh Fringe Festival with Underbelly.
Rodrigo Torrejon (Scott) Rodrigo is excited to be involved in this year's Sound Bites Festival. TV/Film: Zero Day on Netflix (Co-Star), Regional: World Premiere of Mr. Holland's Opus (Manny), Once (Violinist). #BWMT Alumni #YJ4L.
THE CREATIVE TEAM
Sarah Connolly (Director). Recent directing credits include For(e)bear (Brooklyn Center for Theatre Research), A Change of Air (Masquerade Theater), The Betrothed (The Tank), Running After Bobby (Ensemble Studio Theatre), The Glass Between Stars (The Tank), Landis and the Bear (Samuel French Annual Short Play Festival), and Mouse Trap (New York Theatre Festival). Connolly is the Co-Artistic Director of the theater collective, Patchworks NYC and a member of the Board of Directors of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit, The Facing Project. BA Wesleyan University.
Mateo Lincoln (Music Director). Mateo is a music director, music assistant, pianist, and composer based in New York City. He has music directed shows ranging from Cabaret to Next to Normal to Pirates of Penzance in theaters, a pub, and even a stadium. As a composer, he has written two musicals (including an award-winning musical version of The Tempest), chamber music, a classical song cycle, and incidental music for theater, and his music has been performed in the U.S. and U.K. Mateo graduated with a BA in Music and Comparative Literature from Harvard University and an MPhil in English Literature from the University of Cambridge. Reach out if you’re interested in working together! www.mateolincoln.com
Press Delete
Cast
Sammy……………Joel Chapman
Priyanka……………Jhansi Rajgarhia
Pete……………Brady Richter
Priscilla……………Monica Ho*
Sammy’s Mom……………Annie Sherman*
* Indicates member of Actors’ Equity Association.
Scenes & Songs
Scene One – Sammy’s Childhood Home.
“That’s The Way It Is” – Sammy & Sammy’s Mom
“That’s the Way It Is” (reprise) – Sammy & Sammy’s Mom
Scene Two – 20 Years Later, A Restaurant.
“Hey Priyanka” (Part I) – Sammy & Priyanka
“The Big Red Button” – Pete & Priscilla
Scene Three – Sammy & Priyanka’s Home.
“Hey Priyanka” (Part II) – Sammy & Priyanka
Scene Four – Sammy & Priyanka’s Home.
“Hey Priyanka” (Part III) – Sammy & Priyanka
Scene Five – The Choice.
Musicians
Edward Barton (Keyboard), Nick Pauly (Viola)
BIOS
THE WRITERS
Joel Chapman (Sammy, music, lyrics, book). Joel is a New York City-based songwriter, bass-baritone, and conductor. With backgrounds in choral music, accessibility advocacy, musical theater, and comedy, Joel brings fresh spins and improbable ideas to the forefront of his art and leadership.
He is co-creator of Gravity, a New(tonian) Musical — 2025 Lucille Lortel Finalist, 2017 O’Neill National Music Theater Conference finalist — and the Desi Musical Theatre Songbook. Joel is also a classical bass-baritone, recently soloing with the esteemed Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra. He is a composer in the BMI Musical Theater Writing Workshop. | @joelchapmanmusic
Jhansi Rajgarhia (Priyanka, music, lyrics, book). Jhansi is an Indian musical theatre performer and writer. A new immigrant to the USA, she has worked extensively on stage and screen in India, with some of her credits including Aladdin by Disney India, and Queens of Comedy on Amazon Prime. She is a lyricist at the BMI workshop, and a cast member of Broad Comedy. She is currently developing the first ever Desi Musical Theatre Songbook, a collection of songs that reflect all facets of the South Asian experience.
She has a significant following on instagram with her political comedy content. | @thejhansiway
THE CAST
Monica Ho (Priscilla). Monica is delighted to participate in Sound Bites! She is a graduate of the American Conservatory Theater MFA program, class of 2020. Monica grew up in the SF Bay Area and is now based in Brooklyn. Broadway nat'l tour credits: A Christmas Carol (BroadwaySF). Regional credits: The Great Leap (San Jose Stage); The Song of Summer (SF Playhouse); Top Girls (American Conservatory Theater); and The Good Person of Szechuan (California Shakespeare Theater). She is immensely thankful to her friends and community for their support. @Monica_Gardeningtool
Brady Richter (Pete). Brady has loved being in NYC for the past six years. Originally from Chicago, Brady has acted, sung, and danced in plays and musicals since he was in 2nd grade. After graduating college in 2015, Brady returned to Chicago to pursue theatre professionally for several years. Although he isn't currently pursuing professional theatre at this point, he still loves to perform. He runs a tutoring company, and his passion is dancing West Coast Swing, a social dance style.
Annie Sherman (Sammy’s Mom). Annie has performed in national and international tours including Jack O'Brien's The Sound of Music (Elsa Schraeder), Matthew Warchus' A Christmas Carol (u/s Belle/Little Fan), and Bartlett Sher's The King and I (Anna alternate). Favorite regional credits include A Little Night Music at Denver Center for the Performing Arts, Sammi Cannold's Ragtime on Ellis Island, and Darko Tresnjak's Macbeth at Los Angeles Opera. Annie received her B.A. Music from Stanford University and M.M. Vocal Performance from UCLA. She's jazzed to be a part of the Sound Bites Festival!
THE CREATIVE TEAM
BT Hayes (director). BT Hayes is a director, producer, performer, and writer. They are a first-year member of the 2024 BMI Bookwriting Cohort. Directing work has appeared at The Tank, Under St. Mark's, Brooklyn Art Haus, The Rat NYC, Caveat, Notch Theatre Company, and Edinburgh Fringe. Hayes is also a proud alum of The 24 Hour Plays: Nationals Playwriting Cohort of 2024, where she debuted My Titties Are Where I Keep The Horrors at Classic Stage Company. Her Edinburgh Fringe debut play, 13th Morning, is available through 1319 Press. www.bthayes.com
Edward Barton (Music Director). Edward is a composer for film, TV, and theater. He is currently enjoying his second year at the BMI Musical Theater Workshop. He is also musical director at The Barrow Group. Brooklyn-born.
Nick Pauly (viola). Nick is a violist, composer, and improviser from Brooklyn.
Music, Lyrics & Book by Jhansi Rajgarhia & Joel Chapman
Music Direction by Edward Barton
Directed by BT Hayes+
+ Indicates member of Stage Directors and Choreographers Society.
A musical comedy centering Sammy–whom we meet at age five and follow to twenty five–and Priyanka, his best-friend-turned-lover.
A pair of incompetent universe creators—Priscilla and Pete—who keep fumbling everything by showing Sammy the nature of his universe.
A gut-wrenching decision.
Roommate Horror Story
Music by George Luton
Book & Lyrics by Rachel Aberman
Story by Rachel Aberman & George Luton
Music Direction by George Luton
Directed by Billy Eric Robinson
We’re getting ready for girls night out! What could go wrong?
Setting
Friday night in a small two-bedroom New York City apartment, present day
Cast
Molly……………DeNoia
Stephanie……………Gabrielle Filloux*
Jessica……………Emily Drossell
Dawn……………Caylen Cara
The Stranger……………Jenna Levere
* Indicates member of Actors’ Equity Association.
18
“Most Likely” - Stephanie, Jessica, Dawn, Molly
“Live (Interlude)” - Molly
“Up to You” - The Stranger, Molly
“Most Likely (Reprise)” - All
Musicians
Ammon Taylor (Keyboard), Lucy Horgan (Bass), Jonah Wolfson (Percussion)
BIOS
THE WRITERS
Rachel Aberman (Book, Lyrics, Story) Rachel is a musical theatre lyricist and playwright based in Queens, who is inspired by how people form identities within their community and relationships. Her most recent musical, Sunday Brunch–exploring existential dread in the transition out of college–was showcased at 54 Below and Greenroom 42 in 2023. Her first musical, My Buddy, Nellie–about a relationship lost and rekindled–was written and showcased in 2020. Her children’s book, “Caterpillar and His Very Special Apartment” was published in 2022. She is a graduate of Muhlenberg College and a lyricist in the Advanced BMI Lehman Engel Musical Theatre Workshop.
George Luton (Music, Story) George is a musical theatre composer, arranger, orchestrator, and conductor based in NYC. Off-Broadway: The York Theatre (More Than This World), The Tank (Alice, Of Sleepless Nights), Lincoln Center (Helen & Cassandra, Face to Face). George is a two-time recipient of the Jean-Slater Edson Prize in Composition, an artistic fellow through the NYPL, and a member of the advanced BMI Musical Theatre Workshop. They currently serve as a musical arranger for the A24 animated show Hazbin Hotel on Amazon Prime and tour as an improvisational pianist with the Broadway’s Next Hit Musical comedy show. @GeorgeLuton.music www.GeorgeLuton.com
THE CAST
Caylen Cara (Dawn) Caylen is a creative force and co-owner of The Artists Avenue, where they direct, stage manage, and mentor rising theatre talent. Onstage, they’ve rocked roles like Mrs. Lovett (Sweeney Todd), Gingy (Shrek), and a sleepover attendee in Truth, Dare, or Lesbian. Offstage, they dabble in hair design with credits in The Tonys, Broadway Red Carpet, Fashion Week, and featured in Canvas Rebel. Their acting credits also include Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Paramount+. Grateful to be part of another project, Caylen thrives on storytelling and collaboration in the arts—thanks to Mama and Aaron for their support.
Anna DeNoia (Molly) Anna is an NYC-based theatre creator, as well as a passionate performer, producer and prankster. Songwriting experience includes the Johnny Mercer Songwriter’s Project, the Orchard Project, and the BMI Musical Theatre Writing Workshop. Original musical theatre works include the viral song cycle Open, Stay, which has been produced nationwide through Uproar Theatrics, as well as the new musical Grace and the Ghost, which was a NMTC semi-finalist in 2023. Studio cast recordings of both Open, Stay and Grace and the Ghost— written by, produced by, and featuring Anna— are available on all streaming platforms.
Emily Drossell (Jessica) Emily is a queer femme performer, librettist, dramaturg, and comedian unable to observe the rule of threes. NYC: More Than This World (The York), Helen & Cassandra (Lincoln Center), Face to Face (Lincoln Center), Alice (The Tank), Miss March (The Paradise Factory), Truth, Dare, or Lesbian (Off the Lane), The Visit (Columbia). Her work as a lyricist has garnered recognition from the NYPL (Across a Crowded Room Fellowship), The York Theatre (NEO Artist), and The Johnny Mercer Songwriters Project. When not performing or creating theatre, Emily can be found writing satire for The Broadway Beat! emilydrossell.com @emily_drossell
Gabrielle Filloux (Stephanie) Gabrielle’s recent credits: Off-Broadway: THE Z TEAM (Tiffany) at Theatre Row, MORE THAN THIS WORLD (Diane) at The York Theatre, THE OFFICE! A MUSICAL PARODY (Angela & Others, dance capt.) at The Jerry Orbach Nat’l Tour/Cruise: HAIRSPRAY (Penny) & FLIGHT (Katie) at RCCL, THE OFFICE! A MUSICAL PARODY Regional: Goodspeed Musicals, Hartford Stage, Cabrillo Stage, TheaterWorks, New London Barn Playhouse Workshops: FIVE: THE MUSICAL PARODY (Marla Maples), WHITE ROSE: THE MUSICAL (Sophie Scholl), various new works with TRW, BMI Lehman Engel MT Workshop, TNNY, and NETC. I love new work!!! IG: @gabrielle_filloux, www.gabriellefilloux.com
Jenna Levere (The Stranger) Jenna is a NYC based actress. She had previously performed at Radio City music Hall and the Rose theater as a vocalist. Other shows include Clue the Musical (Swing) South Pacific (Nellie u/s) and Hair (Sheila). Her Instagram is @jenlevere and website is jennalevere.com
THE CREATIVE TEAM
Billy Eric Robinson (Director) Billy (they/them) is a Neuroqueer theatre maker, thrilled to return to Soundbites after directing Tiktaalik: The Musical last year. Billy creates theatre that leads with accessibility, community, and authentic representation. Most recently, they have worked as a director, dramaturg, deviser, actor, and stage manager with Epic Players, a neuro-inclusive theatre company. They also spent several years as a stage manager for Sleep No More at the McKittrick Hotel. Billy would like to thank their boyfriend, Oliver, for his love and support, as well as George Luton for bringing them onboard. Find Billy's Instagram: @BillyEricRobinson.
George Luton (Music Director) George has accompanied shows and conducted orchestras across the city at Prospect Musicals (Move Meant), 54 Below (Grace and the Ghost), Off the Lane (Ghost Quartet, Truth Dare or Lesbian, Hootenanny Tonight, Open Stay), Balance Arts Center (PreScripted), and Green Room 42 (On a Wing and a Chair), as well as throughout the northeast at Purple Summer Productions (Hair, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Spring Awakening), Island Theatre Workshop (Mary Poppins, Once Upon a Mattress), Theatre On the Go! (Mean Girls), and the Powerhouse Theatre (The Spitfire Grill). Follow George @GeorgeLuton.music or at www.GeorgeLuton.com
Emily Drossell (Producer) Emily is a queer femme producer, performer, and librettist. Select producing credits include The York Theatre's 2024 NEO Concert (GreenRoom 42), Gay Femme Mayhem (The Tank), and The Picture of Dorian Gray (BMI Musical Theatre Workshop). A lyricist and bookwriter herself, Emily's writing credits include More Than This World (The York), Alice (The Tank), Miss March (The Paradise Factory), Truth, Dare, or Lesbian (Off The Lane), and Face to Face (Lincoln Center), which earned her a writing fellowship through the New York Public Library. This summer, she'll be partaking in the Johnny Mercer Songwriters Project. emilydrossell.com @emily_drossell
Stealing Time
Setting
Present day
Cast
Alex……………Amanda Ribnick
Gaia……………Jordan Underwood*
Ivy……………Sydney Zarlengo
* Indicates member of Actors’ Equity Association.
Scenes & Songs
Scene One – The Crew’s Lair
“Steal Back Time” - Full Company
Scene Two - The Journey
“When I have More Time” - Full Company
Scene Three- The Time Vault
“The Heist” - Full Company
“Time Isn’t” - Full Company
Musicians
Topher Paolucci (Keyboard)
BIOS
THE WRITERS
Raiah Rofsky (Composer) (she/they) is a composer located in New York City. Her music has been produced and performed at Phoenix Theatre Company, 54 Below, Joe's Pub, Prospect Musicals, and more. Raiah is currently part of the third cohort of the MTF Makers™ program alongside librettist Nay Harris, where they are writing their original musical Inevitable Transitions. Most recently, Raiah and collaborator Danielle Koenig, became finalists for the sixth volume of Write Out Loud with their song "Start This Car." As a queer, Jewish, and neurodivergent artist, Raiah is dedicated to centering her artistic practices around lifting up marginalized voices.
Abbie Goldberg (Lyricist/Bookwriter) is a multidisciplinary artist from the mountains of Maine. They are a member of Pink Umbrella Theater’s Disability Cohort and an alumnus of Broadway Advocacy Coalition’s Theater of Change program, the Join for Justice Community Organizing Fellowship, The New Opera and Musical Theater Initiative, and New York University’s Graduate Musical Theatre Writing program. Their work has been performed at Lincoln Center, Joe’s Pub, Theatre Creation in Tokyo, Japan, Rattlestick Theater, and more. Their writing has been published by HowlRound, Autostraddle, Dame, Sinister Wisdom, AK Press, and more. They have been reviewed by their psychiatrist as “such a good storyteller.”
THE CAST
Amanda Ribnick (Alex) is a NYC-based performer, songwriter and composer/lyricist. Amanda was Playbill’s Featured Songwriter of the Month (2024) and won the Knight New Work Award for her musical web-series, Underground (2020). Favorite roles include Annabeth in The Lightning Thief, Eva in Bring It On, and Teresa in Circle Mirror Transformation. Amanda has cultivated an online presence of 25K+ followers and 800K+ likes on TikTok with honest musical theatre compositions and behind-the-scenes looks at her life in the arts. She lives for new works and is thrilled to be part of Stealing Time. Say hi! @amandaribnick on TikTok and Instagram.
Jordan Underwood (Gaia) (they/he). Off Broadway: Annie Dorsen's The Slow Room. Boston: La Boheme (Boston Lyric Opera), Eight (A.R.T.'s Oberon), An Inspector Calls (Boston Center for the Arts). Regional: Snug in A Midsummer Night's Dream (Toms River Shakespeare Festival), Oberon/Theseus/Hippolita/Snout/Cobweb in A Midsummer Night's Dream (Shakespeare in the Valley), Lucetta in The Two Gentlemen of Verona (Shakespeare in the Valley). @jordallenhall.
Sydney Zarlengo (Ivy) (they/them) is a multi-hyphenate actor, dramaturg, and activist-educator. As a performer, they strive to tell stories that make people reflect on the world around them and perhaps begin to look at it a bit differently. As an activist, they work toward integrating accessibility and inclusion into mainstream theaters and educational spaces, as well as recontextualizing history through a disability lens. In 2023, Sydney staged the world's first all-neurodivergent production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time and made the subsequent documentary about the process to demonstrate the power and simplicity of accessible theater. @disabled.autistic.lesbian
THE CREATIVE TEAM
Susanna Jaramillo (Director) (she/her) is a Jersey-born, Queens-based director and stage manager. Artistically, Susanna believes in radical inclusion and aims to create work that subverts our expectations of identity. She has worked with Mercury Store, The Geffen Playhouse, MCC Theatre, Roundabout, Second Stage, The Atlantic, JACK, The Fisher Center at Bard, The Workshop Theatre, The Motor Company, Keen Company, John Jay College, and at the Professional Performing Arts School. Susanna is an alum of the Roundabout Director's Group and the inaugural Drama League Irene Gandy Directing Assistantship Program and a current member of the 2024-2026 WP Theater Lab.
Topher Paolucci (Music Director) is a Brooklyn-based music director and composer from Long Island, NY. He has ten years of music directing experience. He recently worked as a Music Assistant for Take the Lead, a Music Director for Broadway Workshop, and currently works as a Substitute Music Director for The First Presbyterian Church of Oyster Bay. He has an MFA from NYU Tisch in Musical Theatre Composition and BA in Global Communications from the University of Pennsylvania. When not directing or assisting, Topher spends his time composing his lesbian grunge rock vampire musical or watching film analysis videos of movies he’s never seen.
Music by Raiah Rofsky
Lyrics and Book by Abbie Goldberg
Music Direction by Topher Paolucci
Directed by Susanna Jaramillo
What would you do for more time? In Stealing Time three people go on a heist to steal back the futures, pasts, and presents they feel they were denied. Along the way they learn a little something about crip time.
Sunbeam
Music, Lyrics & Book by K Stanger
Directed by Sarah Kimberly Becker
Sunbeam is a heartfelt and comedic exploration of faith, as K navigates her Mormon upbringing and chats with God—singing through the trauma on her little red piano.
Setting
A dusty attic within the confines of K’s mind. Right now.
Cast
K……………K Stanger
God……………Julia VanTrees Cowitt
Songs
A Sunbeam – K
Stomach Bug - K
What We’re Ignoring - K
I Hold You - K and God
BIOS
THE WRITERS
K Stanger (Writer, K). K is a New York based playwright, performer, and creator. She strives to build art through care, community and laughter. K as a playwright expands the comedic into the vulnerable with stories focusing on women, queerness, and survival. K's recent credits include, ORACLE (Reading at LaMama ETC), 100 FEET IN THE AIR (The Tank NYC), and SUNBEAM (Sarah Lawrence College).
THE CAST
K Stanger (Writer, K). K is a New York based playwright, performer, and creator. She strives to build art through care, community and laughter. K as a playwright expands the comedic into the vulnerable with stories focusing on women, queerness, and survival. K's recent credits include, ORACLE (Reading at LaMama ETC), 100 FEET IN THE AIR (The Tank NYC), and SUNBEAM (Sarah Lawrence College).
Julia VanTrees Cowitt (God). Julia is excited to be reprising her role as God! A writer, actor, puppeteer, and theatre educator, Julia earned her BA in Anthropology at SUNY Purchase and her MFA in Theatre at Sarah Lawrence College. Originally from Los Angeles, Julia currently resides in New York. Learn more at juliavantreescowitt.com and @juliavantreescowitt on Instagram.
THE CREATIVE TEAM
Sarah Kimberly Becker (Director). Sarah is a NYC based theatre maker and educator. Her artistic practice centers around women and femme stories in visceral and emotionally raw landscapes. Becker has previously performed at Regional Theatres such as ZACH Theatre (Austin), The Catastrophic Theatre (Houston), Austin Playhouse (Austin), The Tank (NYC), and directed plays and readings at Street Corner Arts (Orphans by Lyle Kessler) and La Mama ETC (K. Stanger’s Oracle). Becker is an MFA Candidate in Theatre at Sarah Lawrence College.
Til Death Do Us Part
Setting
Louise and Howard’s Dining Room, the present
Cast
Louise……………Christine Donnelley*
Howard……………James Harter*
*Indicates member of Actors’ Equity Association.
Scenes & Songs
Scene One – Louise and Howard’s Dining Room
“Fine” - Louise & Howard
“Bored” - Louise
“The Perfect Crime” - Louise & Howard
“Now What?” - Howard & Louise
Musicians
Ian Yan (Keyboard)
BIOS
THE WRITERS
Simon Broucke (Music, Lyrics, & Book). Simon is a composer/lyricist, orchestrator, music director, and dramaturg based in New York City. He has worked on several theatrical productions and workshops, including A Comedy of Errors (The Public Theater), Last Coffee in Rockville (The Farm), and The King's Wife (Playwrights Horizons). He has also composed dance music for the Columbia Ballet Collaborative and the Schoen Movement Company. His orchestral arrangements of cinematic music have been performed by pops orchestras in the United States and Europe. He is a recipient of the New York Youth Symphony Musical Theatre Songwriting Director’s Award for Commitment and Achievement, and is a current member of the advanced BMI Lehman Engel Musical Theatre Workshop. simonbroucke.com
THE CAST
Christine Donnelly (Louise). Originally from Massachusetts and lately from Chinatown, NYC, Christine Donnelly is over the moon to be playing Louise in ’Til Death Do Us Part at Sound Bites 12. She has appeared in theater, TV and cabaret. A recipient of Backstage’s Bistro Award and a New York Innovative Theater Award for Follies at APAC, she was seen and heard for nine seasons in Jeff Weiss’ legendary Hot Keys. Her TV work includes roles on Jessica Jones, A Crime to Remember and Unravelled. christinedonnellyactor.com
James Harter (Howard). For many of the past 10 summers, Jim has performed in various parks in Queens with Hip-to-Hip Shakespeare Co. Musicals he’s been in include the original John Gay Beggars Opera (Peacham), Follies (Waissman), and several shows at Don’t Tell Mama. Other plays include Separate Tables (The Major), Sweet Bird of Youth (Boss Finley), Harvey (Dr. Chumley), The Gin Game (Walter), and The Cherry Orchard (Gaev). Jim is excited to be appearing in this charming musical for his first Sound Bites.
THE CREATIVE TEAM
Mandarin Wu (Director, Choreographer). Mandarin Wu is a director, choreographer, and performer. Theatre Directing/Choreography credits: Skin (Rattlestick Theater), Romance of the Western Chamber (off-Broadway), Legally Blonde (National Chia-Yi University, Taiwan), Tropical Angels (National Taichung Theater), Helen (Pan Asian NuWorks), and readings of Eastbound (NY Theatre Barn). Selective performance credits: The Pearl of the East (Sound Bites 2024), A Dream of Red Pavilions (Pan Asian Rep), Follies (APAC), A Chorus Line (Public Theater Gala), and Orfeo ed Euridice at The Metropolitan Opera (dir. Mark Morris), The King and I, and Mulan. Solo works Pleased and PERIOD. were featured in Pan Asian Rep’s NuWorks. Mandarin teaches in the Musical Theatre Program at Marymount Manhattan College and holds a Dance BA from UC Irvine and a Dance MFA from NYU Tisch. She and collaborator Zonia Tsang are 2025 NYFA Queens Arts Fund: New Works recipients, developing a new musical exploring identity and resilience as Asian American artists.
Ian Yan (Music Director). Ian Yan is a composer, music director, and writer from Hong Kong, based in New York City. Shows written include Everything's Perfect and Ted Wants to Die, Re-Orient, (NMTC 2022 semi-finalist) and The 126th Annual Varsity Show at Columbia University. He also attended the graduate program of the Dramatists Guild’s Musical Creators Institute. As a theater musician, Ian has worked closely on Music Departments with Alex Lacamoire, Tom Kitt, Mary-Mitchell Campbell, Jennifer Nettles, and numerous other theater luminaries. He is delighted to be MDing his dear friend Simon's show! ianyanmusic.com
Music, Lyrics & Book by Simon Broucke
Music Direction by Ian Yan
Choreographed by Mandarin Wu
Directed by Mandarin Wu+
+ Indicates member of Stage Directors and Choreographers Society.
On the night of their 50th wedding anniversary, Louise and Howard bond over their mutual plans to murder each other.