Synopsis
Act One
Early one fateful morning in the Garden of Reason (located just outside mythical
Sparta), the scholar Hesione searches the sky for auspicious signs. Today
is the day that her young nephew Prince Agis will overthrow Princess Leonide
and take his place as the rightful ruler of Sparta. She is joined by her brother
Hermocrates, a stern philosopher, and their servants Harlequin and Dimas in
rejoicing that their exile will soon end with the death of the usurper Leonide
(“Day of Days”).
When they leave to prepare for the coup d’etat, a young girl enters
the Garden with her maid servant. It is no other but the Princess Leonide
with her confidante Corine who has spotted young Agis and has fallen madly
in love. She vows to win the young man’s affection not knowing he has
sworn to kill her that very evening (“Anything”). Leonide and
Corine must disguise themselves as young scholars to gain entrance to the
Garden of Logic. Posing as Lord Phocion and Troy, the two women hope to get
closer to Agis but are discovered by the servant Harlequin. Instead of turning
the two “dress-passers” over to Hesione and Hermocrates, Harlequin
agrees to help them for he is smitten with the young Corine.
Agis enters and meets the two “gentlemen” and agrees to help
Phocion win acceptance with his Uncle Hermocrates (“The Bond That Can’t
Be Broken”). Leonide is shocked when Agis reveals that he is the true
Prince of Sparta, sworn to kill the Princess who has taken his throne but
decides she must continue her plan to keep close to the young man. First she
must get permission to stay in the Garden. Meanwhile, Corine has cemented
her ‘relationship’ with Harlequin (“Mr. Right”). Leonide
meets him (“You May Call Me Phocion”) but Hesione refuses. Corine
next meets the grumpy gardener Dimas who discovers she is a woman but falls
for Corine’s considerable charms and agrees to help the Princess win
Agis.
Hermocrates discovers the young ‘Phocion’ in his garden and warns
her of the disciplined life he follows which disdains anything but masculine
logic (“Emotions”). He quickly sees through the Princess’
disguise and she confesses to be a young woman named Aspasie who confesses
her admiration for Hermocrates goes beyond logic. By physical seduction she
persuades the philosopher to allow her to remain and maintain her disguise
as a young man. Hermocrates agrees but has Dimas follow the intruder and instructs
him to keep Agis away from his visitor.
Agis and ‘Phocion’ meet and the Princess learns her young man
has been brainwashed about the “odious sex that goads men to love”.
They fight and she reveals that she is a woman who has been victimized by
the evil Princess Leonide and is fleeing from a repulsive suitor, Hubert,
that the Princess is forcing her to marry (“The Sad and Sordid Saga
of Cécile”). The young man is entranced and vows to help her
escape the evil plans of Princess Leonide. Seeking solitude to explore his
new feelings for ‘Cécile’ he sings of new found emotions
(“Issue in Question”).
Hesione returns to inform the young ‘Phocion’ he must leave,
but is taken by surprise when the young stranger confesses his love for her
by exchanging portraits. She tells of how she has found solace in the tranquility
of her garden (“Serenity”) but she is smitten with ‘Phocion’
and promises to help win her brother’s approval to let him stay.
Hermocrates is the next person to receive a portrait. With Hermocrates stricken
with ‘Aspasie’, Hesione in love with ‘Phocion’ and
Agis mad for ‘Cécile’ all seems under control and moving
according to plan. That is, until all three suitors show up at the same moment
and Agis accidentally blurts out that he has revealed his true identity to
the young stranger in their midst. Confused by this dangerous turn of events
and unnerved by what they are feeling, they all reflect on the condition of
their hearts and conclude the act (“Teach Me Not To Love You”).
Act Two
Corine and her two new boyfriends try to cheer the Princess (“Have
A Little Faith In Me”). The two philosophers, Hesione and Hermocrates,
meet for meditation. They focus on a miniature topiary tree and they recognize
the restraints placed upon the tree mirror the limits they have placed upon
their own lives (“The Tree”). They leave eager to begin anew.
Dimas tries to persuade Agis to repair his relationship with ‘Cécile’
when (according to plan) the arrival of the treacherous Baron Hubert du Vinaigre
de Fromage Bleu who has come to find his promised Cécile. After insulting
Agis as well as his Aunt and Uncle, the Baron Hubert, who is Harlequin in
disguise, provokes Agis to fight and to confess his true feelings toward ‘Cécile’.
Things move rapidly now with the three suitors Hesione, Hermocrates and Agis
all wanting to escape the Garden of Reason with the object of their affection.
Princess Leonide now is beginning to wonder about her actions (“What
Have I Done”). Even Harlequin, Dimas and Corine notice a change in the
Princess (“Henchmen Are Forgotten”).
When Hermocrates, in his nuptial attire, meets with Agis he tries to explain
his new feelings and his change of attitude (“Love Won’t Take
No For An Answer”). Joined by Hesione who also has planned to escape
the two philosophers cannot help but confess their secret. Love has changed
them, but when they reveal their portraits they realize they have been duped
and demand that Cécile, Phocion and/or Aspasie come clean. Princess
Leonide confesses. She lied to them all for love of Agis but realizes how
much harm can happen when “love” is out of control. Agis is moved
by what she says and tells her that when he is ruler…”Sparta will
be ruled by the mind tempered by the heart” and they will rule together
as man and wife. Corine is united with her two “henchmen” Harlequin
and Dimas. As they leave the garden Hesione consoles Hermocrates.
Cast Biographies
Carlos Avilas
Carlos Avilas (Harlequin) is very excited to finally be playing a character
that didn’t originate from a cartoon. Currently a senior in the Theatre
Department, his credits include Charlie Brown in “You’re a Good
Man, Charlie Brown,” Twin in CLO South Bay’s “Peter Pan,”
Willie in “Family Fotos,” and “Once Upon A Mattress”
directed by Carol Burnett. He can currently be seen at Disneyland with his
good friends Cinderella, Snow White, and Belle as a Storyteller and also with
his best friend Elliot the Dragon in Disney’s Electrical Parade. Many
thanks to John, Gary, and Joan for an amazing four years and to all of the
great friends made during Workshop.
Claire Broderick
Claire Broderick (Corine) is thrilled to have a man on each arm in this show;
she is even more excited to be crossing-dressing on the stage once more. Claire
has played a Choir Boy in “The Man Who Came to Dinner,” the Prince
in “Sleeping Beauty,” the title role in her middle school’s
production of “Oliver,” and she even moonlighted as a delinquent
as ‘Velma’ in “West Side Story.” Claire’s other
theater memories include falling off the Ark as ‘Yonah’ in “Children
of Eden,” watching the all-male kickline as ‘Connie’ in
“Good News,” and baking clams as ‘Julie Jordan’ in
Carousel.
Todd James Caleca
Todd James Caleca (Hermocrates) is a junior vocal performance major once again
performing for UCLA’s Music Theater Workshop. His past credits include;
“You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” (Schroeder), “Babes
in Arms” (Valentine LaMar), “Wizard of Oz” (Tin Man), “Children
of Eden” (Cain/Japheth), “Godspell” and “Camelot.”
Todd dances nightly…at the Disneyland Resort in Disney’s Electrical
Parade at California Adventure, and is currently playing the role of ‘La
Podesta’ in Opera UCLA’s “La Finta Giardiniera,” by
Mozart. Todd wishes to thank his cast, friends and family for their love and
support of him and his music! This one’s for grammy!
Minglie Chen
Minglie Chen (Princess Leonide) is a mass communication major at UCLA. Her
favorite roles include Kim in “Miss Saigon” (Germany), Sally in
“You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” (UCLA), Diane in “bare”
(Los Angeles), and Mulan at Disneyland. Love and thanks to her family, friends,
and teachers.
Kendra Doyle
Kendra Doyle (Corine) is excited to be returning for her third year in UCLA’s
Musical Theater Workshop class, John Hall, Director. Her past credits include
“You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” (Sally), “Boy’s
Life” (Lisa), “Meet Me In St. Louis” (Esther), “Bye
Bye Birdie” (Rosie), and “The Wiz” (Dorothy). Kendra would
like to thank her family and friends for all of their love and support, “I
don’t know what I would do without you guys, thank you so much!”
Amber East
Amber East (Princess Leonide) is a theater major, finishing her last year
at UCLA. Credits include Williamstown Theater Festival: “Buffalo Gal,”
“Can-Can,” “Serendipity and Serenity,” “Bluebird,”
Lew Black Comedy Night, “the WTF Cabaret; UCLA Theater: “Once
Upon A Mattress” (directed by Carol Burnett), “You’re a
Good Man, Charlie Brown,” “Babes in Arms,” Pedestrian; Film:
“Never Get Outta the Boat” (New Crime Productions). Amber gives
endless thanks to John, Gary, Joan, Danny and her wonderful family.
Justin Macuga
Justin Macuga (Hermocrates) hails from the lovely steel city of Pittsburgh,
PA where he attended Carnegie Mellon University. In this, his first year at
UCLA, he is thrilled to be appearing in his first musical production after
appearing in the one-act, “Bookends” produced by the Theater Department.
Justin thanks God for his talents and his beautiful parents for providing
him with endless opportunities, encouragement, support, and love. Special
thanks to John, Gary and everyone involved for all their hard work.
Jamie Martin-Chamberlin
Jamie Martin-Chamberlin (Hesione) is a Senior Vocal Performance major. Some
past favorite roles include Lucy in “You’re a Good Man, Charlie
Brown” (UCLA Music Theater Workshop), The Witch in “Into the Woods,”
Kate in “Kiss Me, Kate,” and Dolly in “Hello, Dolly!”
Jamie is also thrilled to be singing the role of Arminda in Opera UCLA’s
production of Mozart’s “La Finta Gardiniera” in February.
She wishes to thank her loving family for their support throughout her college
career.
Cameron Matthews
Cameron Matthews (Harlequin) is honored to be taking part in another production
with the UCLA Music Theater Workshop. This is his third Workshop production:
“You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” (Snoopy) and “Babes
in Arms” (Gus). Currently a third year theater major in the UCLA School
of Theater, Film, and Television, Cameron is in his fifth year at Disneyland.
There he has performed in a number of parades and shows, most recently he
could be seen as Young Hercules in the musical production “Animazement
– The Musical.” Love and thanks goes out to his devoted Hannah,
friends, and family as well as the audience for coming to see the show!
Myles Nye
Myles Nye (Dimas) is a third year student presently studying acting and playwriting.
His interests include improvised theater, tap dancing, and Scrabble. Myles
is a member of the elite Destroyers of “The Mike and Ben Show,”
UCLA TV’s finest and only sketch comedy TV show, which can be seen Monday
through Thursday nights at 10PM on Channel 29 in the dorms, or seen online
at www.uclatv.com He has written a version of “Hamlet” for the
Muppets and an illustrated book of stories with a message. He thanks his family,
his friends, and his girlfriend Maureen for their love and encouragement.
Ryan Scott Oliver
Ryan Scott Oliver (Agis) is a 17-year old freshman at UCLA, majoring in music
composition. Favorite credits include Billy Bigelow (Carousel), Bottom (A
Midsummer Night’s Dream – by Benjamin Britten), Cinderella’s
Prince (Into the Woods), Juan Peron (Evita), Schaunard (La Bohème),
Hoffmann (The Tales of Hoffman), Melchior (Amahl and the Night Visitors),
Biterolf (Tannhauser), Perchik (Fiddler on the Roof), Prince Dauntless (Once
Upon A Mattress), Sky Masterson (Guys and Dolls), and Joe Hardy (Damn Yankees).
Travis Robertson
Travis Robertson (Dimas) is a third year theater major here at UCLA and is
honored to be part of the cast of “Triumph of Love.” Travis graduated
from the Orange County High School of the Arts where his credits include Oliver
and Big River. Travis also had the opportunity to perform in a Christmas special
with Don Ho and Debbie Reynolds. His college credits include “The Trial…”
directed by Dr. Beverly Robinson, a graduate student project called “Abuja
Woman” and last year he co-directed Ntozake Shange’s “Spell
#7.” Travis would like to thank God for all of these amazing opportunities
and his mother for her undying support and love. Look out world, he’s
just getting started!
Elisabeth Rosenberg
Elisabeth Rosenberg (Hesione) is thrilled to be a part of “Triumph of
Love.” Her musical theater credits include “Oliver!” (Charlotte/Rose
Seller), “Little Shop of Horros” (Ronnette), “Jesus Christ
Superstar;” she has performed the following operatic roles – “The
Magic Flute” (2nd Lady), “Susannah” (Susannah), and “La
Bohème.” A vocal performance major at UCLA, Ms. Rosenberg is
currently covering the role of “Sandrina” in W.A. Mozart’s
“La Finta Giardiniera.” Elisabeth would like to thank John, Gary,
Bill, and Joanie for their endless energy and devotion to theater and education.
Grant Tyler
Grant Tyler (Agis) was last seen on the stage of Schoenberg Hall in the Carol
Burnett Awards, which garnered him first place. He is more than honored to
be a part of “Triumph of Love;” his first production of this musical
was at the Orange County High School of the Arts – playing the role
of Agis. After graduation Grant plans to continue pursuing a career in theater
TV and film. Eventually he knows his heart will lead him back to the world
of academia where he will give back what has so kindly been given to him.
Thank yo and enjoy!
Production Briographies
Yoli Bennett
In addition to her duties as Wardrobe Supervisor for Legoland California,
Costumer Yoli Bennett has designed costumes for many musical productions in
Southern California including her ‘home-base’ with the Carlsbad
Community Cultural Center. At UCLA we have seen her designs for “You’re
a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” “Into the Woods,” “Once
Upon A Mattress” and “Babes in Arms.”
Robert Deman
Scenic Designer Robert Deman is noted for his versatility in designing productions
of opera and musical theater. Whether a standard from the repertory like “Madame
Butterfly” or more esoteric fare such as “Four Saints in Three
Acts,” his sense of style and command of stagecraft make each production
a new experience. His recent designs for UCLA Music Theater include “Babes
in Arms,” “Into the Woods” and “Once Upon A Mattress”
with Carol Burnett director.
Bill Szobody
Bill Szobody’s choreography credits include “Calamity Jane,”
Sierra Repertory Theatre; “Singin in the Rain,” Westchester Broadway
Theatre; “Crazy For You,” Peninsula Players. He also acted as
Pat Birch’s assistant choreographer on the Broadway National Tour of
“Parade.” Bill has taught dance for the past 14 years; and, has
choreographed for various dance companies in the Chicago area, where he co-directed
an educational dance program for elementary students. Bill has performed on
professional stages across the globe. On Broadway, he appeared in the original
cast of “Cabaret” (with Alan Cuming), “Dream,” and
“Parade.” At the Ahmanson Theatre, here in Los Angeles, he performed
the role of Benoit in the national tour of “Martin Guerre.”
Daniel Gary Busby
The “young, energetic and talented” (LA Weekly) Daniel Gary Busby
has had a varied career as pianist, singer, conductor, teacher, administrator
and music critic. His theatrical credits span from Stephen Schwartz’s
“Godspell” to Igor Stravinsky’s “The Rake’s
Progress.” As conductor, Busby has toured Europe and South America,
conducting in Berlin, Leipzig, Budapest and Vienna, as well as Florence, Rome,
Venice and Bogota. After completing his DMA in Instrumental Conducting at
UCLA, Dr. Busby joined the faculty of the University of Southern California.
He left USC to return to UCLA, where he has a joint appointment in theater
and music departments. His students are currently performing on Broadway,
in national tours and in Europe and Asia, as well as in many local productions
here in Los Angeles.
John Hall
As the resident stage director for the UCLA Department of Music, John Hall
has produced more than 70 operas and musicals at UCLA. Alumni of his productions
are currently performing leading roles on Broadway, in national and international
touring companies and opera houses in Europe and the US. Recent productions
have included the rarely performed Kander and Ebb show “Flora, the Red
Menace,” Leonard Bernstein’s “Candide,” the original
1937 version of Rodgers and Hart’s “Babes in Arms,” and
last years’ “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.” As
a lyricist, Hall has achieved worldwide critical acclaim. With UCLA alum Jake
Heggie, he wrote the song cycle “Encountertenor,” which was premiered
by Brian Asawa in London’s Wigmore Hall last year and will receive it’s
American premiere at Alice Tully Hall this January. With UCLA colleague Roger
Bourland, Hall has been the lyricist for two extremely successful contemporary
choral works: “Hidden Legacies,” a cantata about the AIDS crisis,
which has been produced over fifteen times all around the country, and has
been aired on Canadian television, and in 1994, he directed the Carnegie Hall
premiere of his commemorative cantata “Flashpoint/Stonewall.”
John Hall also teaches at SongFest working with master teachers Martin Katz,
Ruth Golden, and Graham Johnson.
