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Tokyo International Players presents
Beauty and the Beast
Written by Laurence Boswell
Music by Mick Sands
Directed by Karen Pauley
A magical re-telling of the story of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, first performed in this version by the Royal Shakespeare Company. When Beauty's father hears that his long-lost ship packed with pearls has landed safely in harbor, he sets out on a long, difficult journey to claim his fortune and rescue his family from poverty. But when he stumbles across a magical world belonging to a fearsome beast and picks a rose as a present for his favorite daughter, the family find themselves in a nightmarish predicament from which only Beauty can rescue them… This timeless tale of the true nature of beauty and the transformational power of love is brought to glorious life in Laurence Boswell's thrilling and inventive adaptation, which draws on the origins of the tale in French folklore and is filled with music, dance, and song.
ロイヤル・シェイクスピア・カンパニーが初演した「美女と野獣」の物語を、魔法のように再演。 ビューティの父親は、長らく消息を絶っていた船が真珠を積んで無事に帰港したと聞き、自分も財を成して家族を貧乏な暮らしから救おうと、長く危険な旅に出ます。しかし、恐ろしい野獣が住む魔法の世界に偶然足を踏み入れ、愛する娘へのプレゼントにバラを選んだことから、一家は悪夢のような苦境に立たされることに...。父親を救えるのはビューティだけ。ローレンス・ボズウェルのスリリングで独創的な脚色が、美の本質と愛の変容の力を描いた不朽の名作に新たな命を吹き込みました。フランス民話を発祥とする原作を、音楽、ダンス、歌で彩ります。
Director's Notes
I have always been drawn to fairy tales as they are stories that keep being retold, suggesting that there is something timeless about them that speaks to the human condition. This is true about BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, which at its core, is about looking beyond the surface to find the true essence of individuals, in a world that often prioritises outward appearances.
There are many ways to tell this story, and to show the importance of inner beauty. This production takes a fun and quirky approach as I enjoy theatre that combines text based work with movement and physical theatre techniques. Stage directions, such as “chorus becomes country” certainly provided a challenge, but it was exciting watching the ensemble working on these aspects and the creativity of the entire cast became the highlight of the rehearsal process.
Creating a show is a collaborative process that would be impossible without the support of a dedicated team. I am indebted to our choreographer, Dale Geyer, whose creative skill and willingness to embrace the theatricality of this piece has greatly enhanced the production. Thank you, Dale, for being such a joy to work with and for accommodating my unusual requests about horses and dancing flowers.
Joan Chen, our stage manager, has been instrumental in ensuring the success of this production. I truly could not have done this without her. Kate Cwynar, our assistant director, has played a crucial role in the rehearsal process and has consistently stepped beyond her comfort zone to help with anything I have asked. Together, they have created a safe and creative environment for the cast to explore the piece.
Shinji Kobata, as always, went above and beyond in his assistance and dedication to the show, working tirelessly to address issues so that I did not have to. My thanks also go to the board of Tokyo International Players, and particularly to Brian Berdanier for his friendship, support, and assistance throughout this process.
Finally, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work with each member of this wonderful cast and crew. Thank you for all the hard work, creative imagination, and for embracing the challenges to create something magical.
Karen Pauley
There are many ways to tell this story, and to show the importance of inner beauty. This production takes a fun and quirky approach as I enjoy theatre that combines text based work with movement and physical theatre techniques. Stage directions, such as “chorus becomes country” certainly provided a challenge, but it was exciting watching the ensemble working on these aspects and the creativity of the entire cast became the highlight of the rehearsal process.
Creating a show is a collaborative process that would be impossible without the support of a dedicated team. I am indebted to our choreographer, Dale Geyer, whose creative skill and willingness to embrace the theatricality of this piece has greatly enhanced the production. Thank you, Dale, for being such a joy to work with and for accommodating my unusual requests about horses and dancing flowers.
Joan Chen, our stage manager, has been instrumental in ensuring the success of this production. I truly could not have done this without her. Kate Cwynar, our assistant director, has played a crucial role in the rehearsal process and has consistently stepped beyond her comfort zone to help with anything I have asked. Together, they have created a safe and creative environment for the cast to explore the piece.
Shinji Kobata, as always, went above and beyond in his assistance and dedication to the show, working tirelessly to address issues so that I did not have to. My thanks also go to the board of Tokyo International Players, and particularly to Brian Berdanier for his friendship, support, and assistance throughout this process.
Finally, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work with each member of this wonderful cast and crew. Thank you for all the hard work, creative imagination, and for embracing the challenges to create something magical.
Karen Pauley
President's Message
Bonjour et bienvenue!
On behalf of Tokyo International Players, I would like to extend to you our deepest gratitude and warmest welcome to BEAUTY AND THE BEAST! Drawing inspiration from the original French folktale, it's an exciting and offbeat take on a timeless story of the true nature of beauty and the transformative power of love. It also happens to be very funny, and filled with gorgeous music and joyous dancing! The production team is led by my dear friend and longtime creative collaborator Karen Pauley and has spent months pouring their hearts into this show, which also marks our triumphant return to Theater Sun-mall, one of our very favorite performance venues. We can't wait to share it with you!
While we relish the joy of bringing you world-class entertainment, we must also acknowledge the challenges currently faced by the creative arts, especially in these tumultuous times. However, your generosity can make a significant difference in this regard. If you find yourself touched by the humor and heart of today's show, please consider making a gift to TIP, either via our newly refurbished website (https://www.tokyoplayers.org/donations) or the donations box in the lobby. Your contributions enable us to continue creating unforgettable theatrical experiences and ensure that English-language theater remains a vibrant part of our community.
Finally, as my time as president of TIP draws to a close, I would be remiss not to acknowledge some of the people who have supported me on this remarkable journey at the helm. My heart is filled with gratitude to the dedicated performers, crew members, and administrators who have poured their passion into every project and production over these past four years, even in the midst of a global pandemic. I particularly wish to thank my indefatigable fellow Executive Committee members Carlos Quiapo, Taylor Wanstall, and Saya Suetsugu-Johnson, who have been a source of support, inspiration, patience, and friendship through thick and thin. Though my tenure as president may soon be over, TIP remains my artistic home and I look forward to remaining closely involved in the future, whether it be onstage, backstage, or in the administrative trenches.
Finally, thanks once again to you –our audience– for joining us today. Your patronage not only fills us with happiness, but also breathes life into the magical, musical world we strive to create on stage. Your enthusiasm, applause, and shared moments of wonder are the essence of what makes theater so extraordinary, and is quite literally the reason we exist.
Bon spectacle!
Brian Berdanier
President, Tokyo International Players
On behalf of Tokyo International Players, I would like to extend to you our deepest gratitude and warmest welcome to BEAUTY AND THE BEAST! Drawing inspiration from the original French folktale, it's an exciting and offbeat take on a timeless story of the true nature of beauty and the transformative power of love. It also happens to be very funny, and filled with gorgeous music and joyous dancing! The production team is led by my dear friend and longtime creative collaborator Karen Pauley and has spent months pouring their hearts into this show, which also marks our triumphant return to Theater Sun-mall, one of our very favorite performance venues. We can't wait to share it with you!
While we relish the joy of bringing you world-class entertainment, we must also acknowledge the challenges currently faced by the creative arts, especially in these tumultuous times. However, your generosity can make a significant difference in this regard. If you find yourself touched by the humor and heart of today's show, please consider making a gift to TIP, either via our newly refurbished website (https://www.tokyoplayers.org/donations) or the donations box in the lobby. Your contributions enable us to continue creating unforgettable theatrical experiences and ensure that English-language theater remains a vibrant part of our community.
Finally, as my time as president of TIP draws to a close, I would be remiss not to acknowledge some of the people who have supported me on this remarkable journey at the helm. My heart is filled with gratitude to the dedicated performers, crew members, and administrators who have poured their passion into every project and production over these past four years, even in the midst of a global pandemic. I particularly wish to thank my indefatigable fellow Executive Committee members Carlos Quiapo, Taylor Wanstall, and Saya Suetsugu-Johnson, who have been a source of support, inspiration, patience, and friendship through thick and thin. Though my tenure as president may soon be over, TIP remains my artistic home and I look forward to remaining closely involved in the future, whether it be onstage, backstage, or in the administrative trenches.
Finally, thanks once again to you –our audience– for joining us today. Your patronage not only fills us with happiness, but also breathes life into the magical, musical world we strive to create on stage. Your enthusiasm, applause, and shared moments of wonder are the essence of what makes theater so extraordinary, and is quite literally the reason we exist.
Bon spectacle!
Brian Berdanier
President, Tokyo International Players
Choreographer's Notes
In traditional musical theatre, song and movement are used to propel the narrative forward, often with emotional resonance that cannot be accessed by words alone. The characters’ dialogue tells the story, the music highlights and heightens the emotional story, and then the dance extends that emotional storytelling by adding a deeper, physical layer to all this. In fact, this layering and support continues through wardrobe, lighting, sound design, set, and on and on. At its core, however, are the three pillars of words, music, and movement.
The unique script for this production of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST relies heavily on the words. Characters have dialogue, but also become their own narrators speaking directly to the audience to reveal what would be portrayed through song or dance in musical theatre. While this play has some original music, it is often more decorative than imperative. Thankfully, we were able to reach out to the highly talented local composer Tristan Muggridge to create some juicier music for us to add to our production. The result of all this left us with some very heavy lifting - figuratively - from the movement. Our heavy lifting - literally - needed to communicate swaths of the story that were not well defined otherwise. It took me a long time of being confused and uncertain before I was able to find the fanciful spirit that would come to define the movement in Beauty and the Beast. Thankfully, we have an amazingly open-minded cast who were willing to be flexible and silly and confused with me. The bravery of this cast cannot be understated, because it requires incredible courage to put your body at risk to reveal the story in a creative way. Some actors have unlocked new skills while rehearsing this show. Hopefully, their physical investment helps the audience to see, feel, and understand more of the story than the words alone can offer.
Dale Geyer
The unique script for this production of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST relies heavily on the words. Characters have dialogue, but also become their own narrators speaking directly to the audience to reveal what would be portrayed through song or dance in musical theatre. While this play has some original music, it is often more decorative than imperative. Thankfully, we were able to reach out to the highly talented local composer Tristan Muggridge to create some juicier music for us to add to our production. The result of all this left us with some very heavy lifting - figuratively - from the movement. Our heavy lifting - literally - needed to communicate swaths of the story that were not well defined otherwise. It took me a long time of being confused and uncertain before I was able to find the fanciful spirit that would come to define the movement in Beauty and the Beast. Thankfully, we have an amazingly open-minded cast who were willing to be flexible and silly and confused with me. The bravery of this cast cannot be understated, because it requires incredible courage to put your body at risk to reveal the story in a creative way. Some actors have unlocked new skills while rehearsing this show. Hopefully, their physical investment helps the audience to see, feel, and understand more of the story than the words alone can offer.
Dale Geyer
Cast
Kristen Watts
Beauty
Kristen doesn't really have words to describe how much this role means to her, so she wrote a plain, boring bio instead: Kristen is an active singer, actress, and narrator here in Tokyo, and is best known for her work as an MC on NHK's eTV show 高校講座 English Communication I. She can also be seen singing in hotel lounges and events across Tokyo, and helping teach summer workshops with Tokyo Kids Write. Past theater credits include Gerda in THE SNOW QUEEN with TTFC, as well as Sylvia in THE TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA and Johanna in SWEENEY TODD with TIP. She can be found on Instagram and Twitter @KristenWattsJpn
Kristen doesn't really have words to describe how much this role means to her, so she wrote a plain, boring bio instead: Kristen is an active singer, actress, and narrator here in Tokyo, and is best known for her work as an MC on NHK's eTV show 高校講座 English Communication I. She can also be seen singing in hotel lounges and events across Tokyo, and helping teach summer workshops with Tokyo Kids Write. Past theater credits include Gerda in THE SNOW QUEEN with TTFC, as well as Sylvia in THE TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA and Johanna in SWEENEY TODD with TIP. She can be found on Instagram and Twitter @KristenWattsJpn
Zach Pickle
Beast
Zach is so excited to do his first show with TIP! Originally from Michigan in the United States, Zach studied theatre at Hope College. Some of his acting credits include INTO THE WOODS, BRIGHT STAR, and SEAGULL. Currently he lives in Yokohama, where he teaches English at a kindergarten. Zach wants to thank the lovely people at TIP for providing him with community, excitement, and intensive thigh workouts.
Zach is so excited to do his first show with TIP! Originally from Michigan in the United States, Zach studied theatre at Hope College. Some of his acting credits include INTO THE WOODS, BRIGHT STAR, and SEAGULL. Currently he lives in Yokohama, where he teaches English at a kindergarten. Zach wants to thank the lovely people at TIP for providing him with community, excitement, and intensive thigh workouts.
Nicolas Gregoriades
Jean Louis
This is Nicolas’s eighth mainstage show with Tokyo International Players and he is happy to be reunited with some of his pals from PRIDE AND PREJUDICE. He also did a staged reading of CONSTELLATIONS and some Zoom shows for TIP at the height of the pandemic. After a lifetime of avoiding musicals, Nicolas is attempting to dance and sing for the first time at the ripe age of 45. He would like to thank his six rambunctious stage children for being relatively gentle with him and his ethereally elegant stage wife for literally guiding him through the show. The ensemble deserves recognition for their tremendous movement work and physical endurance. Special thanks to Karen and Dale for shaping this piece into something innovative and exciting with their genius. Nicolas also wants to thank his students and colleagues at Saint Maur International School, where he teaches English and Drama, for continuing to be a source of inspiration.
This is Nicolas’s eighth mainstage show with Tokyo International Players and he is happy to be reunited with some of his pals from PRIDE AND PREJUDICE. He also did a staged reading of CONSTELLATIONS and some Zoom shows for TIP at the height of the pandemic. After a lifetime of avoiding musicals, Nicolas is attempting to dance and sing for the first time at the ripe age of 45. He would like to thank his six rambunctious stage children for being relatively gentle with him and his ethereally elegant stage wife for literally guiding him through the show. The ensemble deserves recognition for their tremendous movement work and physical endurance. Special thanks to Karen and Dale for shaping this piece into something innovative and exciting with their genius. Nicolas also wants to thank his students and colleagues at Saint Maur International School, where he teaches English and Drama, for continuing to be a source of inspiration.
Charlotte Hammond
Helene/The Witch
Charlotte trained in Musical Theatre at the London College of Music. Having just moved to Japan, she is honored to have been welcomed with open arms to TIP! Before making the move to music teaching, which she adores, Charlotte worked as a professional stage and screen actress in London. She performed in multiple Off West End and fringe productions, commercials, award-winning short films, and sang her way around Europe with her vintage girl group. Charlotte is thrilled to be performing alongside the talented cast of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST under Karen's exceptional direction.
Charlotte trained in Musical Theatre at the London College of Music. Having just moved to Japan, she is honored to have been welcomed with open arms to TIP! Before making the move to music teaching, which she adores, Charlotte worked as a professional stage and screen actress in London. She performed in multiple Off West End and fringe productions, commercials, award-winning short films, and sang her way around Europe with her vintage girl group. Charlotte is thrilled to be performing alongside the talented cast of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST under Karen's exceptional direction.
Alina Ito
Andre
Alina is delighted to be making her TIP debut with BEAUTY AND THE BEAST! Alina grew up all over the world, but returned to Tokyo last June after graduating from Yale University, where she studied Computer Science and Theater Studies. After being surrounded by theater for over 10 years, she's so grateful to have found another theater community here in Japan. Some of Alina's theater highlights include playing Hero from MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING (Off-Broadway Theater at Yale University), Brynn Tang from AUNTIE'S (The Blank Theater and the Yale Playwrights Festival), Roberta Victor, Theresa Liu, et al. from WORKING (The Whitney Theater at Yale University), and Candy from ZOMBIE PROM (Cranbrook Schools). Off-stage, Alina works as an editorial content creator (which is really just a fancy way of saying "writer") for Tokyo Weekender. Enjoy the show!
Alina is delighted to be making her TIP debut with BEAUTY AND THE BEAST! Alina grew up all over the world, but returned to Tokyo last June after graduating from Yale University, where she studied Computer Science and Theater Studies. After being surrounded by theater for over 10 years, she's so grateful to have found another theater community here in Japan. Some of Alina's theater highlights include playing Hero from MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING (Off-Broadway Theater at Yale University), Brynn Tang from AUNTIE'S (The Blank Theater and the Yale Playwrights Festival), Roberta Victor, Theresa Liu, et al. from WORKING (The Whitney Theater at Yale University), and Candy from ZOMBIE PROM (Cranbrook Schools). Off-stage, Alina works as an editorial content creator (which is really just a fancy way of saying "writer") for Tokyo Weekender. Enjoy the show!
Laura Pollacco
Phillipe
Laura is thrilled to be back with TIP in this energetic rendition of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST which challenges her physically in a way no play has before! Laura has studied drama both in the United Kingdom and in Japan, including formal training at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. This is her fourth play in Tokyo in the last year, having starred as Lizzie in TIP's PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, as well as Liz in THE WHALE and Rosencrantz in HAMLET (both with Sheepdog Theatre). Laura can't seem to stay away from theatre; it's where she feels at home, where she meets like-minded people, and where she gets to explore characters from all walks of life, learning more about herself as she does so. She is thrilled to have been offered so many opportunities and can't wait for you to enjoy this production!
Laura is thrilled to be back with TIP in this energetic rendition of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST which challenges her physically in a way no play has before! Laura has studied drama both in the United Kingdom and in Japan, including formal training at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. This is her fourth play in Tokyo in the last year, having starred as Lizzie in TIP's PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, as well as Liz in THE WHALE and Rosencrantz in HAMLET (both with Sheepdog Theatre). Laura can't seem to stay away from theatre; it's where she feels at home, where she meets like-minded people, and where she gets to explore characters from all walks of life, learning more about herself as she does so. She is thrilled to have been offered so many opportunities and can't wait for you to enjoy this production!
Hiep H. Do
Emile
Hiep is thrilled to be back on stage in his second production with TIP. His first involvement with TIP was in the 2023 fall musical production I LOVE YOU, YOU'RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE. He is excited for his first role in a play and cannot wait to show everyone all the effort the cast has put into this retelling of the classic Beauty and the Beast! Grab a scoop of ice cream and enjoy the show! 😉
Hiep is thrilled to be back on stage in his second production with TIP. His first involvement with TIP was in the 2023 fall musical production I LOVE YOU, YOU'RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE. He is excited for his first role in a play and cannot wait to show everyone all the effort the cast has put into this retelling of the classic Beauty and the Beast! Grab a scoop of ice cream and enjoy the show! 😉
Ophelia Rose
Veronique
Ophelia couldn’t be more delighted to have this opportunity to live out her Villain Era on stage. Her formal training is in musical theatre, having earned a BFA in musical theater performance with emphasis in dance, partner lifting, and voice work. You may remember her from the six characters she played in the 2022 TTFC production of THE SNOW QUEEN, or perhaps you wondered what happened to the charming Miss Bingley, and who was under that lace veil shouting nonsense during the 2023 TIP production of PRIDE AND PREJUDICE. Wonder no longer. Ophelia sincerely hopes you are entertained by watching Veronique onstage—if not for her sparkling personality, then at least for the satisfaction of watching her fail.
Ophelia couldn’t be more delighted to have this opportunity to live out her Villain Era on stage. Her formal training is in musical theatre, having earned a BFA in musical theater performance with emphasis in dance, partner lifting, and voice work. You may remember her from the six characters she played in the 2022 TTFC production of THE SNOW QUEEN, or perhaps you wondered what happened to the charming Miss Bingley, and who was under that lace veil shouting nonsense during the 2023 TIP production of PRIDE AND PREJUDICE. Wonder no longer. Ophelia sincerely hopes you are entertained by watching Veronique onstage—if not for her sparkling personality, then at least for the satisfaction of watching her fail.
Thelma Heimisdottir
Marie Claire
Thelma is excited to make her Tokyo International Players debut as Marie Claire in BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. Originally from Iceland and raised in England, Thelma honed her acting skills in Japan, where she studied for three years and immersed herself in both the language and culture. Her diverse acting portfolio includes roles in school musicals, various short films, and regular appearances in Japanese dramas and on television. Thelma's passion for acting stems from her love of storytelling and the joy of bringing characters to life. She extends her heartfelt thanks to Karen and Joan for this wonderful opportunity to enchant audiences in this quirky adaption of Beauty and the Beast.
Thelma is excited to make her Tokyo International Players debut as Marie Claire in BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. Originally from Iceland and raised in England, Thelma honed her acting skills in Japan, where she studied for three years and immersed herself in both the language and culture. Her diverse acting portfolio includes roles in school musicals, various short films, and regular appearances in Japanese dramas and on television. Thelma's passion for acting stems from her love of storytelling and the joy of bringing characters to life. She extends her heartfelt thanks to Karen and Joan for this wonderful opportunity to enchant audiences in this quirky adaption of Beauty and the Beast.
Tim Jeffares
Beast’s Man
Tim first appeared with TIP in 2016’s production of MACBETH. Since then he has appeared in another 10 TIP productions, ranging from musicals to contemporary drama and most recently 2023’s production of PRIDE AND PREJUDICE. As keen attendees of TIP productions may note, he normally takes on roles as humans. On this occasion he gets to test his metal as a mechanical robot, which seems to provide some leeway to muck around with the lines…yippee!
Tim first appeared with TIP in 2016’s production of MACBETH. Since then he has appeared in another 10 TIP productions, ranging from musicals to contemporary drama and most recently 2023’s production of PRIDE AND PREJUDICE. As keen attendees of TIP productions may note, he normally takes on roles as humans. On this occasion he gets to test his metal as a mechanical robot, which seems to provide some leeway to muck around with the lines…yippee!
Ann Jenkins
Beast's Maid
In fiction a character called Jenkins is usually found in some servile capacity, so Ann is cast as befits her surname. It's not the first time that she has played the help in France. Some may remember her as Eugénie, the disgruntled chambermaid of the Hôtel Coq d'Or in TIP's 2015 production of the French farce A FLEA IN HER EAR. She seems no more content in her work here, although her personal life appears a little rosier. Again, she tries her best to do a lot with a little, and make the most of her fleeting moments upon the stage. It's something of a challenge to upstage Le Grand Amour in this piece—no intimacy co-ordinator was required for her and her counterpart as their scenes are all quite mechanical!—but Beauty & Beastie aren't the only pair destined to live happily ever after. Merde! Spoiler alert!
In fiction a character called Jenkins is usually found in some servile capacity, so Ann is cast as befits her surname. It's not the first time that she has played the help in France. Some may remember her as Eugénie, the disgruntled chambermaid of the Hôtel Coq d'Or in TIP's 2015 production of the French farce A FLEA IN HER EAR. She seems no more content in her work here, although her personal life appears a little rosier. Again, she tries her best to do a lot with a little, and make the most of her fleeting moments upon the stage. It's something of a challenge to upstage Le Grand Amour in this piece—no intimacy co-ordinator was required for her and her counterpart as their scenes are all quite mechanical!—but Beauty & Beastie aren't the only pair destined to live happily ever after. Merde! Spoiler alert!
Doug Brittain
Wardrobe/Ensemble
Doug could not think of a better show than BEAUTY AND THE BEAST to make his TIP debut. In the early 2000s Doug was a part of numerous Niigata JET Charity Musical productions, always looking for the laughs as Rooster Hannigan from ANNIE, Cowardly Lion from WIZARD OF OZ, Mr. Harry MacAfee from BYE BYE BIRDIE and Doc from WEST SIDE STORY (not as many laughs as the other shows). After moving to Tokyo he spent many years away from the stage before joining the Pirates of Tokyo Bay bilingual improv group, where he has the opportunity to take many risks with members that have always got his back. Doug would like to thank Ayako for encouraging to do what makes him happy.
Doug could not think of a better show than BEAUTY AND THE BEAST to make his TIP debut. In the early 2000s Doug was a part of numerous Niigata JET Charity Musical productions, always looking for the laughs as Rooster Hannigan from ANNIE, Cowardly Lion from WIZARD OF OZ, Mr. Harry MacAfee from BYE BYE BIRDIE and Doc from WEST SIDE STORY (not as many laughs as the other shows). After moving to Tokyo he spent many years away from the stage before joining the Pirates of Tokyo Bay bilingual improv group, where he has the opportunity to take many risks with members that have always got his back. Doug would like to thank Ayako for encouraging to do what makes him happy.
Georgia Ryder
Wardrobe/Ensemble
Georgia is excited to make a return to the TIP main stage in her role as the Wardrobe in BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. After graduating with a Bachelor of Performing Arts majoring in Musical Theatre from the National Academy of Performing Arts in New Zealand, she moved to Japan to begin a new career. Since then, she has been involved with TIP for a number of years, recently making her Assistant Director debut with TIP Youth’s production of IMAGINE A DRAGON. Georgia has performed with TIP in JOHN HEMSTOCK BLACK, NATURAL SHOCKS and a number of online staged readings. She has thoroughly enjoyed the rehearsal process of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST and is ecstatic for you to enjoy the result.
Georgia is excited to make a return to the TIP main stage in her role as the Wardrobe in BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. After graduating with a Bachelor of Performing Arts majoring in Musical Theatre from the National Academy of Performing Arts in New Zealand, she moved to Japan to begin a new career. Since then, she has been involved with TIP for a number of years, recently making her Assistant Director debut with TIP Youth’s production of IMAGINE A DRAGON. Georgia has performed with TIP in JOHN HEMSTOCK BLACK, NATURAL SHOCKS and a number of online staged readings. She has thoroughly enjoyed the rehearsal process of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST and is ecstatic for you to enjoy the result.
Holly McNamee
Vanity Table/Ensemble
Holly is delighted to be making her TIP debut in BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. She is from the USA, where she performed in numerous shows and in a variety of styles. Holly has lived in Japan for five years: before Tokyo she lived in Nagoya and performed with THE NAGOYA PLAYERS. In Nagoya she was in OUR TOWN, VAGINA MONOLOGUES, as well as variety shows. She’s lived in Tokyo for a year and this is her first theatre show here. She is hoping to be more involved in performing arts in Tokyo. During the day she is a preschool teacher and enjoys teaching young learners. She would like to thank Karen and Joan for this chance!
Holly is delighted to be making her TIP debut in BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. She is from the USA, where she performed in numerous shows and in a variety of styles. Holly has lived in Japan for five years: before Tokyo she lived in Nagoya and performed with THE NAGOYA PLAYERS. In Nagoya she was in OUR TOWN, VAGINA MONOLOGUES, as well as variety shows. She’s lived in Tokyo for a year and this is her first theatre show here. She is hoping to be more involved in performing arts in Tokyo. During the day she is a preschool teacher and enjoys teaching young learners. She would like to thank Karen and Joan for this chance!
Marina Haga
Screen/Ensemble
Marina is delighted to make her TIP debut with BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. Growing up in Miyazaki, Marina relocated to Vancouver, Canada in 2015 to pursue her passion for theatre. Highlights from her theatre career include performances in RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN’S CINDERELLA (Theatre Under the Stars), BACK TO THE FUTURE THE MUSICAL (The Geekenders), and her recent portrayal of Ms. Fleming in HEATHERS (Model Production). After graduating from a Canadian secondary school, Marina furthered her musical theatre education at The American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) in Los Angeles and New York, honing her skills professionally before the pandemic. Currently a full-time student at Sophia University, Marina is thrilled to be back on stage and ready to dazzle audiences once again!
Marina is delighted to make her TIP debut with BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. Growing up in Miyazaki, Marina relocated to Vancouver, Canada in 2015 to pursue her passion for theatre. Highlights from her theatre career include performances in RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN’S CINDERELLA (Theatre Under the Stars), BACK TO THE FUTURE THE MUSICAL (The Geekenders), and her recent portrayal of Ms. Fleming in HEATHERS (Model Production). After graduating from a Canadian secondary school, Marina furthered her musical theatre education at The American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) in Los Angeles and New York, honing her skills professionally before the pandemic. Currently a full-time student at Sophia University, Marina is thrilled to be back on stage and ready to dazzle audiences once again!
Davide Capretta
Ensemble
Davide is beyond excited to make his stage debut with TIP for BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. After doing his studies in both Italy and the U.S. he has spent his last six years in Japan where he fell in love with the performing arts. He believes it is a great honor to be able to provide inspiration through entertainment to audiences and to be a channel between imagination, dreams, and reality. For that, he is deeply grateful to all the people involved in the production!
Davide is beyond excited to make his stage debut with TIP for BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. After doing his studies in both Italy and the U.S. he has spent his last six years in Japan where he fell in love with the performing arts. He believes it is a great honor to be able to provide inspiration through entertainment to audiences and to be a channel between imagination, dreams, and reality. For that, he is deeply grateful to all the people involved in the production!
Amy King
Ensemble
Amy is originally from Ireland where her love of drama formed. She has previously performed in RIDERS TO THE SEA, TWELFTH NIGHT, SPRING AWAKENING and more, but this will be her first time taking part in a show in Japan and also her first TIP performance. She is excited for everyone to see the fever dream that is BEAUTY AND THE BEAST.
Amy is originally from Ireland where her love of drama formed. She has previously performed in RIDERS TO THE SEA, TWELFTH NIGHT, SPRING AWAKENING and more, but this will be her first time taking part in a show in Japan and also her first TIP performance. She is excited for everyone to see the fever dream that is BEAUTY AND THE BEAST.
Eliza van Kan
Ensemble
Eliza van Kan is absolutely honored to join the Tokyo International Players’ production of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST as a member of the ensemble. She played piano for TIP’s previous production of I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE (2023). She’s also participated with Tokyo Theater For Children as pianist for THE SNOW QUEEN (2022) and held an ensemble role in THE WEIRDEST KID I KNOW (2019). With two degrees in music education, Eliza teaches music full-time at Yoyogi International School. She sends her love and thanks to the wonderful cast, production team, and Martina, for supporting her while she fills her days end to end with music.
Eliza van Kan is absolutely honored to join the Tokyo International Players’ production of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST as a member of the ensemble. She played piano for TIP’s previous production of I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE (2023). She’s also participated with Tokyo Theater For Children as pianist for THE SNOW QUEEN (2022) and held an ensemble role in THE WEIRDEST KID I KNOW (2019). With two degrees in music education, Eliza teaches music full-time at Yoyogi International School. She sends her love and thanks to the wonderful cast, production team, and Martina, for supporting her while she fills her days end to end with music.
Jazlaan Karshis
Ensemble
After learning about TIP through a chance encounter, Jazlaan “Jazz” Karshis is excited to make his debut on the grand stage with fellow castmates and new friends. Moving to Japan permanently in 2015, Jazlaan had all but given up on his dream of acting on stage, only scratching the itch at karaoke by singing musical numbers. Now, be it as a servant, a tree, or a statue, Jazlaan is ready to give it his all and put on a show!
After learning about TIP through a chance encounter, Jazlaan “Jazz” Karshis is excited to make his debut on the grand stage with fellow castmates and new friends. Moving to Japan permanently in 2015, Jazlaan had all but given up on his dream of acting on stage, only scratching the itch at karaoke by singing musical numbers. Now, be it as a servant, a tree, or a statue, Jazlaan is ready to give it his all and put on a show!
Lorelei McKelvey
Ensemble
Lorelei is excited to make her theater performance debut in BEAUTY AND THE BEAST with TIP. She has had roles in three short films as she is looking to transition her career as a data scientist to performance. She has had 10 years of private singing lessons starting with opera and transitioning to musical theater, and has been taking private acting lessons for three years with actor/comedian Mark Christopher Lawrence and ELFS Japan. She has also studied martial arts most of her life and enjoys bringing physical elements into her performance. She is very excited for the opportunity to work with Karen and the cast and crew!
Lorelei is excited to make her theater performance debut in BEAUTY AND THE BEAST with TIP. She has had roles in three short films as she is looking to transition her career as a data scientist to performance. She has had 10 years of private singing lessons starting with opera and transitioning to musical theater, and has been taking private acting lessons for three years with actor/comedian Mark Christopher Lawrence and ELFS Japan. She has also studied martial arts most of her life and enjoys bringing physical elements into her performance. She is very excited for the opportunity to work with Karen and the cast and crew!
Nikita Noah
King of Mirrors/Ensemble
Nikita Noah is a freelance translator, globetrotter and performer. He's been involved in theatre and music since childhood, having taken part in productions staged by his hometown company La Cueva de Salamanca including a stage adaptation of Mozart's singspiel THE MAGIC FLUTE as Papageno. He has trained and played all around Europe, at Cours Florent in Paris, Nancy Tuñón Studio in Barcelona and die schauspielfabrik in Berlin, where he played ROBERTO ZUCCO in Koltès' celebrated piece and took part in short film while providing vocals to local musicians. He was last seen at TIP's I LOVE YOU, YOU'RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE last autumn, which marked his debut in Tokyo.
Nikita Noah is a freelance translator, globetrotter and performer. He's been involved in theatre and music since childhood, having taken part in productions staged by his hometown company La Cueva de Salamanca including a stage adaptation of Mozart's singspiel THE MAGIC FLUTE as Papageno. He has trained and played all around Europe, at Cours Florent in Paris, Nancy Tuñón Studio in Barcelona and die schauspielfabrik in Berlin, where he played ROBERTO ZUCCO in Koltès' celebrated piece and took part in short film while providing vocals to local musicians. He was last seen at TIP's I LOVE YOU, YOU'RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE last autumn, which marked his debut in Tokyo.
Chika Ota
Ensemble
Chika is delighted to be making her TIP debut with BEAUTY AND THE BEAST! It is her first time participating in an all-English show. Chika was born and raised in Chiba and fell in love with musical theatre when she was 15. After she graduated from high school, she embarked on professional musical study and is currently working as a singer. Highlights from her singing career include performing at a concert with cast members from Tokyo Disney Land and Universal Studios Japan, as well as singing at the PRINCESS MUSICAL CELEBRATION (TIAM Productions) and HIBIYA CINEMA FESTIVAL 2023 (Tokyo Midtown Hibiya). Her dream is to work overseas as a professional performer and she has been studying English since she was 21. She’d like to thank everyone at TIP for their gentle support during the rehearsals.
Chika is delighted to be making her TIP debut with BEAUTY AND THE BEAST! It is her first time participating in an all-English show. Chika was born and raised in Chiba and fell in love with musical theatre when she was 15. After she graduated from high school, she embarked on professional musical study and is currently working as a singer. Highlights from her singing career include performing at a concert with cast members from Tokyo Disney Land and Universal Studios Japan, as well as singing at the PRINCESS MUSICAL CELEBRATION (TIAM Productions) and HIBIYA CINEMA FESTIVAL 2023 (Tokyo Midtown Hibiya). Her dream is to work overseas as a professional performer and she has been studying English since she was 21. She’d like to thank everyone at TIP for their gentle support during the rehearsals.
Cookie Qu
Ensemble
Cookie is absolutely delighted to join the TIP mainstage show for the first time as a cast member. Previously, she has had the pleasure of working behind the scenes for JOHN HEMSTOCK BLACK, PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, and I LOVE YOU, YOU'RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE as the stage manager or assistant producer. She also enjoyed performing with TIP in the LAFCADIO HEARN'S KWAIDAN project at Tokyo American Club. She is deeply grateful for the incredible friendships and experiences that TIP has offered her, which bring a unique joy to her life alongside her day job as a management consultant. Before moving to Tokyo, Cookie has also participated in productions both as cast and crew during her time at NYU and in high school in Beijing.
Cookie is absolutely delighted to join the TIP mainstage show for the first time as a cast member. Previously, she has had the pleasure of working behind the scenes for JOHN HEMSTOCK BLACK, PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, and I LOVE YOU, YOU'RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE as the stage manager or assistant producer. She also enjoyed performing with TIP in the LAFCADIO HEARN'S KWAIDAN project at Tokyo American Club. She is deeply grateful for the incredible friendships and experiences that TIP has offered her, which bring a unique joy to her life alongside her day job as a management consultant. Before moving to Tokyo, Cookie has also participated in productions both as cast and crew during her time at NYU and in high school in Beijing.
Crew
Director
Karen Pauley
Assistant Director
Kate Cwynar
Stage Manager
Joan Chen
Asst. Stage Manager
India Hudson
Choreographer
Dale Geyer
Producer
Shinji Kobata
Theater Liaison
Shinji Kobata
Language Coach
Brian Berdanier
Lighting
Marty Pauley
Kaori Hiroki
Sound
Jack Merluzzi
Props Master
Troy Fisher-Harper
Props Assistants
Jonah Hagans
Mayo Yamamoto
Kristin Troilo
Hideo Komori
Set Design
Yuko Ono
Projection Design
David Howard
Asst. Projection Design
Joan Chen
Costumes
Ashley Ellerman
Paula Yagisawa
Kristen Watts
Amy Gray
Erika Morooka
Intimacy Coordinator
Juri Ito
Backstage Crew
Filip Checinski
Akesa Mar
Olivia Tobari
Box Office
Chieko Tanaka
Carlos Quiapo
Front of House
Taylor Wanstall
Photographer
Mansa Ito
Rodger Sono
Composer (Waltz)
Tristan Muggridge
Musicians
Eliza van Kan
Dillon Jeffares
Tristan Muggridge
Translator
Chieko Tanaka
Graphic Design
JQ Chen
Digital Program Design
Joan Chen
TIP Liaison
Rachel Walzer
Makeup and hair supervised by John Parker and expertly styled by the students and teachers of Yamano Beauty College
Special Thanks to
Kiesselbach Butai Lights
Sponsors
The British School in Tokyo
The British School in Tokyo (BST) is the biggest British international school in Japan, providing a holistic education to international students from age 3 to 18. There are over 1,100 students representing 60+ nationalities across the two campuses of BST.
The Primary School is located at Azabudai Hills, a step away from Tokyo Tower; while the Secondary School is at Sangenjaya, only two stops from Shibuya. BST provides a ‘through’ education. Nursery children joining BST at age 3 will automatically be enrolled to Year 1 at age 5. The students graduating at Year 6 (aged 12) will move straight to Year 7, starting their study at Secondary School and finishing when they are 18 years old.
In its 35 years of history, BST has continually grown and flourished, with a commitment to excellence – delivering education founded in the English National Curriculum and embracing all that our international and Japanese setting provides. It has developed a reputation as one of the best international schools in Japan, and its students transfer to leading universities worldwide.
Contact:
admissions@bst.ac.jp
www.bst.ac.jp
Primary School (Azabudai Hills): 03-5544-9160
Secondary School (Sangenjaya): 03-3411-4211
The Primary School is located at Azabudai Hills, a step away from Tokyo Tower; while the Secondary School is at Sangenjaya, only two stops from Shibuya. BST provides a ‘through’ education. Nursery children joining BST at age 3 will automatically be enrolled to Year 1 at age 5. The students graduating at Year 6 (aged 12) will move straight to Year 7, starting their study at Secondary School and finishing when they are 18 years old.
In its 35 years of history, BST has continually grown and flourished, with a commitment to excellence – delivering education founded in the English National Curriculum and embracing all that our international and Japanese setting provides. It has developed a reputation as one of the best international schools in Japan, and its students transfer to leading universities worldwide.
Contact:
admissions@bst.ac.jp
www.bst.ac.jp
Primary School (Azabudai Hills): 03-5544-9160
Secondary School (Sangenjaya): 03-3411-4211
Yamano Beauty College
山野美容専門学校
The Improvazilla Show
The TCS Improvazilla Show and School of Improvisation
Improvazilla is Tokyo’s hilarious and longest-running improv comedy show!
Our next show is on Friday, April 26th!
Doors open 7:30pm - Show starts from 8pm
Improvazilla is Tokyo’s hilarious and longest-running improv comedy show!
Our next show is on Friday, April 26th!
Doors open 7:30pm - Show starts from 8pm
Patrons and Donors 2021-2024
Honorary Lifetime Patrons
Yoshi Allan
Fran & Don Dillon
Malcolm Duff
Susan Inman
Miranda Kenrick
Barbara Knode
Karen Sieg
Ivan Woodhouse
Gifts of ¥100,000 or more
Bob & Wendy Macdonald
Jeannette Ohmae
Michelle Wagley
Gifts of ¥10,000 to ¥99,000
Anonymous
Brian Berdanier
Jim & LaJuana Berdanier
Laura Bray Nakano
Joanna Chinen
Sylvie De Repentigny
Atsushi Ebuchi
Friends of Kate Prior
Nicolas Gregoriades
Kelly Haavaldsrud
Yuko Kasai
Steve & Sharon Knode
Takeshi Mayama
Maya Mori
Benjamin Porter
Saya Suetsugu
Rhonda Tezuka
TIP Youth
Michael Wagner
Rika Wakasugi
Mayuka Wake
Jeremy White
Sharon Yamakawa
...and generous audience members of I LOVE YOU, YOU'RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE in October 2023
Gifts up to ¥9999
Ursula Bartlett
Hugo Delacharlery
Ann Endo
Janet Fuentes
Dale Geyer
Irmgard Gregoriades
Scott Hernalsteen
Kazuko Inoue
Annis Miwa
Paul Pasion
Kenneth Sell
Patricia Wagner
Rachel Walzer
Tip Board 2023-2024
President: Brian Berdanier
Vice President: Taylor Wanstall
Secretaries: Saya Suetsugu, Zack Kobayashi
Treasurer: Carlos Quiapo
Joan Chen
Julius Fuentes
Karen Pauley
Jon Reimer
Chieko Tanaka
Advisors to the Board for 2023-2024:
Scott Hernalsteen
Kazuko Inoue
Ann Jenkins
Shinji Kobata
Jack Merluzzi
Marty Pauley
Laura Pollacco
Rachel Walzer
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