Triumph of Love - 2002

History

About the UCLA Music Theater Workshop

For over twenty-five years John Hall has led this course in the Department of Music teaching basic techniques in song performance, audition preparation, movement and onstage experience in productions ranging from cabarets and musical revues to fully mounted productions of Music Theater in different styles. Recent productions range from the original 1937 version of Rodgers and Hart’s “Babes in Arms” to the recently revised version of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” to a production of the 1959 musical comedy “Once Upon A Mattress” directed by Carol Burnett. Tonight’s show, “Triumph of Love” premiered on Broadway in 1998 starring F. Murray Abraham, Betty Buckley and our class alum Susan Egan in the leading role of Princess Leonide.

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.

Biographies

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 Biographies

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.

Recognizing the quality of instruction and motivation of student talent in the UCLA Music Theater Workshop, the Maxwell H. Gluck Foundation helps to support the productions and activities of the UCLA Music Theater Workshop. This production of Triumph of Love is made possible by the continued generosity of the Maxwell H. Gluck Foundation, and we thank them.