| 7:00 pm
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s A Grand Night for Singing
Taste and imagination, the two key ingredients for a first-rate musical revue, abound in this fresh take on the Rodgers & Hammerstein canon, conceived by Tony Award winner Walter Bobbie. Over three decades after the duo’s final collaboration, The Sound of Music, took Broadway by storm, this R&H musical opened the 1994 Broadway season with flair and distinction, garnering wildly enthusiastic notices and earning two Tony nominations, including Best Musical.
Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein may never have imagined “Shall We Dance?” as a comic pas de deux for a towering beauty and her diminutive admirer, nor might they have suspected that one day a lovelorn young lad might pose the musical question, “How do you solve a problem like Maria?” But that’s precisely the kind of invention lavished upon this new revue, with innovative musical arrangements, including a sultry Andrews Sisters-esque “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair,” a swingin’ “Honeybun” worthy of the Modernaires, and a jazzy “Kansas City,” proving how terrifically timeless the remarkable songs of R&H remain.
| 7:00 pm
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Richard Rodgers
Richard Rodgers’ contributions to the musical theatre of his day were extraordinary, and his influence on the musical theatre of today and tomorrow is legendary. His career spanned more than six decades, his hits ranging from the silver screens of Hollywood to the bright lights of Broadway, London and beyond. He was the recipient of countless awards, including Pulitzers, Tonys, Oscars, Grammys, and Emmys. He wrote more than 900 published songs and forty Broadway musicals.
Richard Rodgers (1902-1979) and Lorenz Hart (1895-1943) wrote their first shows together when both were still students attending Columbia University. Their breakthrough came with the score for a 1925 charity show, The Garrick Gaieties, which introduced the classic valentine to their hometown, “Manhattan.”
Over the next five years, they wrote fifteen musical comedies for Broadway and London’s West End before relocating to Hollywood in 1930, where they contributed songs and wrote the scores for several movie musicals, most notably Love Me Tonight starring Maurice Chevalier.
In 1935 they returned to New York to write the score for Billy Rose’s circus musical Jumbo, launching a golden era that included On Your Toes, Babes in Arms, I’d Rather Be Right, I Married an Angel, The Boys From Syracuse, Too Many Girls, Higher and Higher, Pal Joey and By Jupiter. In 1943 the partnership disbanded temporarily when Rodgers collaborated with Oscar Hammerstein II on Oklahoma!, but it resumed with a revision of their 1927 hit A Connecticut Yankee, which opened on November 17, 1943 — less than a week before Lorenz Hart’s death.
For the next two decades Richard Rodgers collaborated exclusively with Oscar Hammerstein II on such musicals as Carousel, Allegro, South Pacific, The King and I, Pipe Dream and The Sound of Music. Collectively, their musicals have garnered dozens of awards including: Pulitzer Prizes; Tonys, Oscars, Emmys, and Grammys; and Drama Desk, Drama Critics’ Circle, Outer Critics’ Circle, Laurence Olivier, and Evening Standard Awards.
After Hammerstein’s death in 1960 Rodgers continued to write for the musical stage, including No Strings, and collaborations with Martin Charnin, Stephen Sondheim and Sheldon Harnick. His fortieth, and final, Broadway musical, I Remember Mama, opened on Broadway less than eight months before his death on December 30, 1979.
The Richard Rodgers Theatre on Broadway was renamed in his honor, and Rodgers and Hart were each commemorated on a US postage stamp at the end of the last century
Oscar Hammerstein II
Oscar Hammerstein II was born on July 12, 1895 in New York City. His father, William, was a theatre manager and for many years director of Hammerstein’s Victoria, the most popular vaudeville theatre of its day. His uncle, Arthur Hammerstein, was a successful Broadway producer and his grandfather, Oscar Hammerstein, a famous opera impresario.
Hammerstein started writing lyrics for the Columbia University Varsity shows while studying law. His earliest works included musical comedies written with a Columbia undergraduate seven years his junior named Richard Rodgers. (The 1920 Varsity show, Fly With Me, was composed by Rodgers with lyrics by both Hammerstein and a fellow classmate of his named Lorenz Hart.) Withdrawing from Columbia Law School after his second year to pursue a career in theatre, Hammerstein took a job with his uncle as an assistant stage manager.
In 1919 Hammerstein’s first play, The Light, was produced by his Uncle Arthur; it lasted four performances. Undaunted, he continued to write both lyrics and librettos, principally with Otto Harbach as his collaborating author. His first success, with Harbach, Vincent Youmans and Herbert Stothart, was Wildflower in 1923. Hammerstein found his niche with some of the greatest composers of his day, breathing new life into the moribund artform of operetta with such classics as Rose-Marie (music by Rudolf Friml), The Desert Song (Sigmund Romberg), The New Moon (Romberg), and Song of the Flame (George Gershwin). With Jerome Kern, Hammerstein wrote eight musicals, including Sweet Adaline, Music in the Air and their masterwork, Show Boat. His last musical before embarking on an exclusive partnership with Richard Rodgers was Caren Jones, the highly-acclaimed 1943 all-black revision of Georges Bizet’s tragic opera Carmen.
During the years that Hammerstein was redefining the terms of operetta, Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart were challenging the accepted norms of musical comedy with shows that set new standards for wit, sophistication and innovation. The Rodgers & Hammerstein partnership began with Oklahoma! (1943). Like Hammerstein’s Show Boat and Rodgers & Hart’s Pal Joey, the first Rodgers & Hammerstein musical was a ground-breaking milestone, blending musical comedy and operetta into a whole new genre — the musical play. OKLAHOMA! was also the start of the most successful partnership in Broadway history and was followed byCarousel, Allegro, South Pacific, The King and I, Pipe Dream, Flower Drum Song, and The Sound of Music. Rodgers & Hammerstein wrote one musical specifically for the big screen — STATE FAIR — and one for television — Cinderella. Collectively, their musicals have garnered dozens of awards including: Pulitzer Prizes; Tonys, Oscars, Emmys, and Grammys; and Drama Desk, Drama Critics’ Circle, Outer Critics’ Circle, Laurence Olivier, and Evening Standard Awards.
As producers, Rodgers & Hammerstein presented plays, musicals and revivals, including John van Druten’s I Remember Mama, Anita Loos’ Happy Birthday, Irving Berlin’s blockbuster Annie Get Your Gun, the national tour of Show Boat (1947-49) and six of their own stage musicals (from the Pulitzer winning South Pacific in 1949 to the Tony winning The Sound of Music ten years later). They also produced the motion picture version of OKLAHOMA! and founded their own music publishing firm, Williamson Music (basing the name on the fact that both of their fathers were named William.)
Oscar Hammerstein II was a member of the board of directors of many professional organizations, including the Dramatists Guild and the Screen Writers’ Guild. He received many personal honors and awards including five honorary degrees, two Pulitzer Prizes, two Academy Awards and five Tony Awards.
His last musical was The Sound of Music written with Richard Rodgers in 1959; his last song was “Edelweiss,” written for that musical during its Boston tryout. Oscar Hammerstein II died at his farm in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, on the morning of August 23, 1960.
In 1995 Hammerstein’s centennial was celebrated worldwide with commemorative recordings, books, concerts and an award-winning PBS special, “Some Enchanted Evening.” The ultimate tribute came the following season, when Oscar Hammerstein II had three musicals playing on Broadway simultaneously: Show Boat (1995 Tony Award winner, Best Musical Revival);The King and I (1996 Tony Award winner, Best Musical Revival); and State Fair (1996 Tony Award nominee for Best Score.)
“The Careful Dreamer,” a Time Magazine cover story on Oscar Hammerstein II, was published on October 20, 1947. A biography, Getting to Know Him by Hugh Fordin, was first published by Random House in 1977. A revised edition of Hammerstein’s Lyrics, edited by his son William Hammerstein and containing an introductory essay by the lyricist plus a preface by his protege Stephen Sondheim, was published by Hal Leonard Publishing in 1985.
Composers
Guest Artists
Swearingen & Kelli
Swearingen & Kelli
In addition to their successful careers as established songwriters with multiple albums, the duo is also on a mission to share this iconic music with audiences around the country. Both artists were heavily inspired by the great 70s singer-songwriters and their ability to channel the sounds of that era are immediately apparent at when you hear them perform live.
The duo’s brand new album, Cold-Hearted Truth, bridges the gap between folk singers and country rebels. Recorded in a series of live takes with Grammy Award-winning producer Mitch Dane (Jars of Clay, JJ Heller, The Blind Boys of Alabama), this third LP has been featured on Americana Highways, Cowboys and Indians, and Red Line Roots.
Swearingen & Kelli have shared the stage with artists including David Bromberg, Crystal Gayle and Kenny Rogers. Swearingen’s song “You’re Not Here With Me” was recorded by folk icon Tom Rush featuring Nanci Griffith on his album, What I Know.
More on Swearingen & Kelli: www.swearingenandkelli.com
Hannah Cruz
Hannah Cruz
Hannah is 16 years old and is in her sophomore year at Bishop Verot HighSchool. Performing has always been her passion and her little 3 year-old self would be so proud to see how far she has come! She has done a variety of shows in a variety of places including at school, Florida Rep, Gypsy Playhouse, Fort Myers Theatre, & Broadway Palm. Some of her performing credits include — Miss Jones – How to Succeed in Business… (Verot), Katherine – Newsies Jr (Fl Rep), Little Gloria – On Your Feet (Broadway Palm), & Carmen Diaz – Fame! (FMT). She is beyond excited to be apart of this show! She would like to thank her family, teachers, & everyone who supports her in doing what she loves!
Hope you enjoy the show! 🙂
@hannah.cruz03
Cara Chumbley
Cara Chumbley
Cara is so excited to be here at Gulf Coast Symphony. This is her third time in Nunsense, but her first time playing Robert Anne! Cara recently moved from Chicago to New York City and has been performing regionally for years. She would like to thank her parents, friends and family for all their love and support. All my love to my 20lb cat Guinness. Enjoy the show!
Carachumbley.com
Kiki Sanchez
Kiki Sanchez
The extraordinarily Peruvian producer, composer, arranger, educator and pianist Luis Enrique “Kiki” Sanchez can capture the hearts of many through his variations of skillful and unique style that have filled the airwaves with a distinctive blend of soulful jazz, tropical, and afro-Peruvian fusion. This gifted musician was born and raised in Lima, Peru where he studied piano with Coco Macedo and Edermi Chavez and started playing professionally at the age of 11. He became a well-rounded musician by playing with his father’s band “Orquesta Majestic” doing corporate venues in Lima. Later he moved to Miami, FL where he has worked with several Jazz and Latin Jazz Artists. He continued to expand his knowledge and education at the Florida Atlantic University where Sanchez earned a Master Degree in Music Composition.
As an educator, Sanchez has also released an Educational DVD titled “The Real Latin Piano and Introduction to Afro-Peruvian Rhythms” (2009) published by ADG Productions and the book “The Real Latin Piano Book” published in 2012 by ADG Productions. Kiki has been doing music clinics and workshops in the States and overseas. He is currently a Music professor at Miami Dade College and also he has been teaching music technology courses at Palm Beach Atlantic University.
Sanchez is very active as an artist, producer, arranger, educator, and pianist. He performed at the inauguration of the Larry Rosen “Jazz Roots” at the Arsht Center in Miami, FL. He also has been the music director of several musical theaters in South Florida. Kiki also has performed in several Jazz Festivals such as: Montreux, St. Lucia, Grenada, Ohio Jazz and Rib and others. He also has been the music director for “Noches Tropicales” Jazz series at Miami Dade County Auditorium. Recently, Sanchez has been performing locally and overseas, during the summer of 2015, he performed at the SFJAZZ Center in San Francisco, CA, Instituto Cervantes in New York, Centro Cultural Kichner in Buenos Aires, Argentina and several other places. Kiki is also the Music Outreach Director of Beauliere Academy of Music in Haiti, where he goes every summer to provide music education.
Kiki was the Director of Music Department at Hurst Chapel A.M.E Church in Riviera Beach, Florida and currently he is the Director of Music Department at Ebenezer United Methodist Church located in Miami, Florida.
In the near future Kiki plans to release two Latin Jazz singles titled “Sanchez’s Blues” and “It is a Peruvian Thing” by Diola Entertainment. Additionally he will also release two other Gospel singles “I Praise You Lord” and “I Want to Give You My Best”.
Finally, Sanchez is so exciting about his 501C3 Non-Profit Organization “PW (Praise and Worship) for the Arts” where the mission is to help and provide music education to kids from less fortunate families and communities. One of Sanchez' dreams is to make a difference through Arts/Music education and to expose its benefits through “PW for the Arts” journey.
Ruth Stokes
Ruth Stokes
Ruth Stokes is a cellist invested in musical collaboration and innovation. Her playing is characterized by a rich, passionate sound and dynamic interpretations. Currently Ruth is working and studying at Penn State University as a Graduate Teaching Assistant for cello and a Master’s student in cello performance. Originally from Minnesota, she received her Bachelor’s degree in 2022 from Frost School of Music at the University of Miami where she was a Stamps Distinguished Ensemble Scholar with the Stamps String Quartet from 2018-2022.
Throughout her undergraduate degree Ruth performed extensively throughout South Florida as well as in New York, South Carolina, and Georgia with the Stamps Quartet. She has spent the summers at music festivals in Ohio, Massachusetts, New York, Minnesota, California, and Pennsylvania, as well as overseas in Germany and Poland.
Ruth has been playing as a principal of the Chamber and Philharmonic Orchestras at Penn State School of Music and won the 2023 Penn State Concerto Competition playing Ernest Bloch’s Schelomo. She also currently plays with the Altoona and Williamsport Symphony Orchestras, and performs solo, chamber, and outreach concerts. Ruth has taught at Penn State since fall 2022 and teaches outside the school both privately and as a faculty member at the State College Academy of Music. She has also recently given performance classes at Concordia Academy in MN and Altoona Area High School in PA.
Ruth’s recent projects include performing Shades for solo cello by Daijana Wallace for the Penn State African American Music Festival, Tan Dun’s Elegy: Snow in June for solo cello and percussion ensemble, Postludium DSCH by Valentin Silvestrov for a Ukrainian sister city benefit concert, ensemble performances featuring piano quartets and trios by Chausson, Brahms, and Mahler, and premieres of both solo and ensemble works by student composers at Penn State. Ruth is currently at work on a variety of fresh solo and chamber projects.
Natalie Brouwer
Natalie Brouwer
Natalie Brouwer is thrilled to be in her first show at Gulf Coast Symphony! She performs professionally as an actor & singer throughout the east coast, and recently made SWFL her permanent base. Some recent shows include I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change; The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time; Laughter on the 23rd Floor (Players Circle Theatre), Miracle on 34th Street (Beach Street Repertory Theatre), Bright Star and Working: The Musical (Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre), and multiple singing engagements with Brian Gurl Productions. MFA in Acting ‘16 (UNC Greensboro). Big thank you to this wonderful and dedicated cast and crew! Special thanks to MM and her family & friends.
Eliette Rogers
Eliette Rogers
Eliette Rogers is a performer living in the Florida panhandle. She graduated from the University of South Florida with a BA in Theatre Performance and a minor in Videography. This is Eliettes first time performing with the Gulf Coast Symphony, and she is so excited to be a part of this show! Some of her credits include touring the U.S with Bright Star Touring Theatre, playing a dancer/combatant in Unto These Hills, Daniela in In The Heights, Anita in West Side Story, and a Dynamite in HairSpray! Special thanks to her faith, family, and friends.
Avalyn Calandra
Avalyn Calandra
Avalyn is delighted to be performing in the Gulf Coast Symphony’s production of Gypsy. Recent credits include Susan Waverly in White Christmas, Charlie Bucket in Willy Wonka, Jr., and Belle in Beauty and the Beast, Jr. She is a 7th grade student and attends Middle School in Cape Coral, FL. Avalyn thanks her family and friends for all their ongoing support.
Patrece Bloomfield
Patrece Bloomfield
Patrece is excited to make her debut on this stage. When not working on a production for theater or her craft as an actress in film and TV, you can find her casting spells as Celestina Warbeck, the “Singing Sorceress” in Diagon Alleyat Universal Studios.
Patrece has co-starred on HBO’s “The Outsider”, portrayed “Delores Van Cartier” in “Sister Act”, portrayed Armelia in “Aint Mis-Behavin”, performed multiple cabarets, and her favorite role to date, portraying the legendary “Billie Holiday” in “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill” at The Dr. Phillips performing arts center. Patrece is grateful to the support of her loving family and friends.
Whitney Grace
Whitney Grace
Whitney Grace, a Punta Gorda native, has been giving audiences the old Bazazz since she was 5 years old. Whitney’s journey has taken her across the vibrant stages of Florida’s regional theaters. She was most recently seen playing the role of Sister Hubert in the musical Nunsense with the Gulf Coast Symphony.
Whitney’s star has also shone brightly at esteemed venues like Palm Beach Dramaworks in The Science of Leaving Omaha (Ruth Ellen), the Maltz Jupiter Theater in Hairspray, Mamma Mia, and How to Succeed.., Gablestage in White Guy on the Bus (Molly), The Wick Theatre in Milk and Honey (Barbara), Cinderella (Gabrielle), Brigadoon, Crazy For You, and West Side Story (Minnie), TheatreZone in The Secret Garden (Martha), and The Show Palace in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Sarah).
Rave reviews have poured in for Whitney’s captivating one-woman cabaret musicals. “Showstopper: A Love Letter To Broadway” and “The Lullaby of Broadway: A Tribute to the City That Never Sleeps” have taken audiences on unforgettable journeys through the magic of song. Her cabaret shows, filled with heart and soul, have graced stages such as Cape Cabaret, The Ascot Experience, The Charlotte Harbor Events Center, and prestigious country clubs throughout Florida. In 2022, Whitney won the ‘Punta Gorda Chamber’s Got Talent’ Show, further solidifying her reputation as a dynamic and captivating performer.
Currently, Whitney is immersed in rehearsals for the upcoming production of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, where she is set to embody the role of Judy Haynes with the Fort Myers Theatre. The show will open November 30th and will tour in Fort Myers, Punta Gorda, and Marco Island.
Beyond the spotlight, She also owns and operates Growing With Grace Studios; a performing arts school nestled in Arcadia, FL. A homeschool graduate and alumna of Palm Beach Atlantic University, Whitney’s commitment to excellence was acknowledged with the prestigious Women of Distinction Award. With gratitude in her heart, she extends special thanks to her director Mark, her parents Tom and Linda, her fiancé Daniel, and the Lord. For sweet Myra. Psalm 77:11-12
Whitney Grace, a Punta Gorda native, has been giving audiences the old Bazazz since she was 5 years old. Whitney’s journey has taken her across the vibrant stages of Florida’s regional theaters. She was most recently seen playing the role of Sister Hubert in the musical Nunsense with the Gulf Coast Symphony.
Whitney’s star has also shone brightly at esteemed venues like Palm Beach Dramaworks in The Science of Leaving Omaha (Ruth Ellen), the Maltz Jupiter Theater in Hairspray, Mamma Mia, and How to Succeed.., Gablestage in White Guy on the Bus (Molly), The Wick Theatre in Milk and Honey (Barbara), Cinderella (Gabrielle), Brigadoon, Crazy For You, and West Side Story (Minnie), TheatreZone in The Secret Garden (Martha), and The Show Palace in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Sarah).
Rave reviews have poured in for Whitney’s captivating one-woman cabaret musicals. “Showstopper: A Love Letter To Broadway” and “The Lullaby of Broadway: A Tribute to the City That Never Sleeps” have taken audiences on unforgettable journeys through the magic of song. Her cabaret shows, filled with heart and soul, have graced stages such as Cape Cabaret, The Ascot Experience, The Charlotte Harbor Events Center, and prestigious country clubs throughout Florida. In 2022, Whitney won the ‘Punta Gorda Chamber’s Got Talent’ Show, further solidifying her reputation as a dynamic and captivating performer.
Currently, Whitney is immersed in rehearsals for the upcoming production of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, where she is set to embody the role of Judy Haynes with the Fort Myers Theatre. The show will open November 30th and will tour in Fort Myers, Punta Gorda, and Marco Island.
Beyond the spotlight, She also owns and operates Growing With Grace Studios; a performing arts school nestled in Arcadia, FL. A homeschool graduate and alumna of Palm Beach Atlantic University, Whitney’s commitment to excellence was acknowledged with the prestigious Women of Distinction Award. With gratitude in her heart, she extends special thanks to her director Mark, her parents Tom and Linda, her fiancé Daniel, and the Lord. For sweet Myra. Psalm 77:11-12
Production Team
Swearingen & Kelli
Swearingen & Kelli
In addition to their successful careers as established songwriters with multiple albums, the duo is also on a mission to share this iconic music with audiences around the country. Both artists were heavily inspired by the great 70s singer-songwriters and their ability to channel the sounds of that era are immediately apparent at when you hear them perform live.
The duo’s brand new album, Cold-Hearted Truth, bridges the gap between folk singers and country rebels. Recorded in a series of live takes with Grammy Award-winning producer Mitch Dane (Jars of Clay, JJ Heller, The Blind Boys of Alabama), this third LP has been featured on Americana Highways, Cowboys and Indians, and Red Line Roots.
Swearingen & Kelli have shared the stage with artists including David Bromberg, Crystal Gayle and Kenny Rogers. Swearingen’s song “You’re Not Here With Me” was recorded by folk icon Tom Rush featuring Nanci Griffith on his album, What I Know.
More on Swearingen & Kelli: www.swearingenandkelli.com
Hannah Cruz
Hannah Cruz
Hannah is 16 years old and is in her sophomore year at Bishop Verot HighSchool. Performing has always been her passion and her little 3 year-old self would be so proud to see how far she has come! She has done a variety of shows in a variety of places including at school, Florida Rep, Gypsy Playhouse, Fort Myers Theatre, & Broadway Palm. Some of her performing credits include — Miss Jones – How to Succeed in Business… (Verot), Katherine – Newsies Jr (Fl Rep), Little Gloria – On Your Feet (Broadway Palm), & Carmen Diaz – Fame! (FMT). She is beyond excited to be apart of this show! She would like to thank her family, teachers, & everyone who supports her in doing what she loves!
Hope you enjoy the show! 🙂
@hannah.cruz03
Cara Chumbley
Cara Chumbley
Cara is so excited to be here at Gulf Coast Symphony. This is her third time in Nunsense, but her first time playing Robert Anne! Cara recently moved from Chicago to New York City and has been performing regionally for years. She would like to thank her parents, friends and family for all their love and support. All my love to my 20lb cat Guinness. Enjoy the show!
Carachumbley.com
Kiki Sanchez
Kiki Sanchez
The extraordinarily Peruvian producer, composer, arranger, educator and pianist Luis Enrique “Kiki” Sanchez can capture the hearts of many through his variations of skillful and unique style that have filled the airwaves with a distinctive blend of soulful jazz, tropical, and afro-Peruvian fusion. This gifted musician was born and raised in Lima, Peru where he studied piano with Coco Macedo and Edermi Chavez and started playing professionally at the age of 11. He became a well-rounded musician by playing with his father’s band “Orquesta Majestic” doing corporate venues in Lima. Later he moved to Miami, FL where he has worked with several Jazz and Latin Jazz Artists. He continued to expand his knowledge and education at the Florida Atlantic University where Sanchez earned a Master Degree in Music Composition.
As an educator, Sanchez has also released an Educational DVD titled “The Real Latin Piano and Introduction to Afro-Peruvian Rhythms” (2009) published by ADG Productions and the book “The Real Latin Piano Book” published in 2012 by ADG Productions. Kiki has been doing music clinics and workshops in the States and overseas. He is currently a Music professor at Miami Dade College and also he has been teaching music technology courses at Palm Beach Atlantic University.
Sanchez is very active as an artist, producer, arranger, educator, and pianist. He performed at the inauguration of the Larry Rosen “Jazz Roots” at the Arsht Center in Miami, FL. He also has been the music director of several musical theaters in South Florida. Kiki also has performed in several Jazz Festivals such as: Montreux, St. Lucia, Grenada, Ohio Jazz and Rib and others. He also has been the music director for “Noches Tropicales” Jazz series at Miami Dade County Auditorium. Recently, Sanchez has been performing locally and overseas, during the summer of 2015, he performed at the SFJAZZ Center in San Francisco, CA, Instituto Cervantes in New York, Centro Cultural Kichner in Buenos Aires, Argentina and several other places. Kiki is also the Music Outreach Director of Beauliere Academy of Music in Haiti, where he goes every summer to provide music education.
Kiki was the Director of Music Department at Hurst Chapel A.M.E Church in Riviera Beach, Florida and currently he is the Director of Music Department at Ebenezer United Methodist Church located in Miami, Florida.
In the near future Kiki plans to release two Latin Jazz singles titled “Sanchez’s Blues” and “It is a Peruvian Thing” by Diola Entertainment. Additionally he will also release two other Gospel singles “I Praise You Lord” and “I Want to Give You My Best”.
Finally, Sanchez is so exciting about his 501C3 Non-Profit Organization “PW (Praise and Worship) for the Arts” where the mission is to help and provide music education to kids from less fortunate families and communities. One of Sanchez' dreams is to make a difference through Arts/Music education and to expose its benefits through “PW for the Arts” journey.
Ruth Stokes
Ruth Stokes
Ruth Stokes is a cellist invested in musical collaboration and innovation. Her playing is characterized by a rich, passionate sound and dynamic interpretations. Currently Ruth is working and studying at Penn State University as a Graduate Teaching Assistant for cello and a Master’s student in cello performance. Originally from Minnesota, she received her Bachelor’s degree in 2022 from Frost School of Music at the University of Miami where she was a Stamps Distinguished Ensemble Scholar with the Stamps String Quartet from 2018-2022.
Throughout her undergraduate degree Ruth performed extensively throughout South Florida as well as in New York, South Carolina, and Georgia with the Stamps Quartet. She has spent the summers at music festivals in Ohio, Massachusetts, New York, Minnesota, California, and Pennsylvania, as well as overseas in Germany and Poland.
Ruth has been playing as a principal of the Chamber and Philharmonic Orchestras at Penn State School of Music and won the 2023 Penn State Concerto Competition playing Ernest Bloch’s Schelomo. She also currently plays with the Altoona and Williamsport Symphony Orchestras, and performs solo, chamber, and outreach concerts. Ruth has taught at Penn State since fall 2022 and teaches outside the school both privately and as a faculty member at the State College Academy of Music. She has also recently given performance classes at Concordia Academy in MN and Altoona Area High School in PA.
Ruth’s recent projects include performing Shades for solo cello by Daijana Wallace for the Penn State African American Music Festival, Tan Dun’s Elegy: Snow in June for solo cello and percussion ensemble, Postludium DSCH by Valentin Silvestrov for a Ukrainian sister city benefit concert, ensemble performances featuring piano quartets and trios by Chausson, Brahms, and Mahler, and premieres of both solo and ensemble works by student composers at Penn State. Ruth is currently at work on a variety of fresh solo and chamber projects.
Natalie Brouwer
Natalie Brouwer
Natalie Brouwer is thrilled to be in her first show at Gulf Coast Symphony! She performs professionally as an actor & singer throughout the east coast, and recently made SWFL her permanent base. Some recent shows include I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change; The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time; Laughter on the 23rd Floor (Players Circle Theatre), Miracle on 34th Street (Beach Street Repertory Theatre), Bright Star and Working: The Musical (Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre), and multiple singing engagements with Brian Gurl Productions. MFA in Acting ‘16 (UNC Greensboro). Big thank you to this wonderful and dedicated cast and crew! Special thanks to MM and her family & friends.
Eliette Rogers
Eliette Rogers
Eliette Rogers is a performer living in the Florida panhandle. She graduated from the University of South Florida with a BA in Theatre Performance and a minor in Videography. This is Eliettes first time performing with the Gulf Coast Symphony, and she is so excited to be a part of this show! Some of her credits include touring the U.S with Bright Star Touring Theatre, playing a dancer/combatant in Unto These Hills, Daniela in In The Heights, Anita in West Side Story, and a Dynamite in HairSpray! Special thanks to her faith, family, and friends.
Avalyn Calandra
Avalyn Calandra
Avalyn is delighted to be performing in the Gulf Coast Symphony’s production of Gypsy. Recent credits include Susan Waverly in White Christmas, Charlie Bucket in Willy Wonka, Jr., and Belle in Beauty and the Beast, Jr. She is a 7th grade student and attends Middle School in Cape Coral, FL. Avalyn thanks her family and friends for all their ongoing support.
Patrece Bloomfield
Patrece Bloomfield
Patrece is excited to make her debut on this stage. When not working on a production for theater or her craft as an actress in film and TV, you can find her casting spells as Celestina Warbeck, the “Singing Sorceress” in Diagon Alleyat Universal Studios.
Patrece has co-starred on HBO’s “The Outsider”, portrayed “Delores Van Cartier” in “Sister Act”, portrayed Armelia in “Aint Mis-Behavin”, performed multiple cabarets, and her favorite role to date, portraying the legendary “Billie Holiday” in “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill” at The Dr. Phillips performing arts center. Patrece is grateful to the support of her loving family and friends.
Whitney Grace
Whitney Grace
Whitney Grace, a Punta Gorda native, has been giving audiences the old Bazazz since she was 5 years old. Whitney’s journey has taken her across the vibrant stages of Florida’s regional theaters. She was most recently seen playing the role of Sister Hubert in the musical Nunsense with the Gulf Coast Symphony.
Whitney’s star has also shone brightly at esteemed venues like Palm Beach Dramaworks in The Science of Leaving Omaha (Ruth Ellen), the Maltz Jupiter Theater in Hairspray, Mamma Mia, and How to Succeed.., Gablestage in White Guy on the Bus (Molly), The Wick Theatre in Milk and Honey (Barbara), Cinderella (Gabrielle), Brigadoon, Crazy For You, and West Side Story (Minnie), TheatreZone in The Secret Garden (Martha), and The Show Palace in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Sarah).
Rave reviews have poured in for Whitney’s captivating one-woman cabaret musicals. “Showstopper: A Love Letter To Broadway” and “The Lullaby of Broadway: A Tribute to the City That Never Sleeps” have taken audiences on unforgettable journeys through the magic of song. Her cabaret shows, filled with heart and soul, have graced stages such as Cape Cabaret, The Ascot Experience, The Charlotte Harbor Events Center, and prestigious country clubs throughout Florida. In 2022, Whitney won the ‘Punta Gorda Chamber’s Got Talent’ Show, further solidifying her reputation as a dynamic and captivating performer.
Currently, Whitney is immersed in rehearsals for the upcoming production of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, where she is set to embody the role of Judy Haynes with the Fort Myers Theatre. The show will open November 30th and will tour in Fort Myers, Punta Gorda, and Marco Island.
Beyond the spotlight, She also owns and operates Growing With Grace Studios; a performing arts school nestled in Arcadia, FL. A homeschool graduate and alumna of Palm Beach Atlantic University, Whitney’s commitment to excellence was acknowledged with the prestigious Women of Distinction Award. With gratitude in her heart, she extends special thanks to her director Mark, her parents Tom and Linda, her fiancé Daniel, and the Lord. For sweet Myra. Psalm 77:11-12
Whitney Grace, a Punta Gorda native, has been giving audiences the old Bazazz since she was 5 years old. Whitney’s journey has taken her across the vibrant stages of Florida’s regional theaters. She was most recently seen playing the role of Sister Hubert in the musical Nunsense with the Gulf Coast Symphony.
Whitney’s star has also shone brightly at esteemed venues like Palm Beach Dramaworks in The Science of Leaving Omaha (Ruth Ellen), the Maltz Jupiter Theater in Hairspray, Mamma Mia, and How to Succeed.., Gablestage in White Guy on the Bus (Molly), The Wick Theatre in Milk and Honey (Barbara), Cinderella (Gabrielle), Brigadoon, Crazy For You, and West Side Story (Minnie), TheatreZone in The Secret Garden (Martha), and The Show Palace in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Sarah).
Rave reviews have poured in for Whitney’s captivating one-woman cabaret musicals. “Showstopper: A Love Letter To Broadway” and “The Lullaby of Broadway: A Tribute to the City That Never Sleeps” have taken audiences on unforgettable journeys through the magic of song. Her cabaret shows, filled with heart and soul, have graced stages such as Cape Cabaret, The Ascot Experience, The Charlotte Harbor Events Center, and prestigious country clubs throughout Florida. In 2022, Whitney won the ‘Punta Gorda Chamber’s Got Talent’ Show, further solidifying her reputation as a dynamic and captivating performer.
Currently, Whitney is immersed in rehearsals for the upcoming production of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, where she is set to embody the role of Judy Haynes with the Fort Myers Theatre. The show will open November 30th and will tour in Fort Myers, Punta Gorda, and Marco Island.
Beyond the spotlight, She also owns and operates Growing With Grace Studios; a performing arts school nestled in Arcadia, FL. A homeschool graduate and alumna of Palm Beach Atlantic University, Whitney’s commitment to excellence was acknowledged with the prestigious Women of Distinction Award. With gratitude in her heart, she extends special thanks to her director Mark, her parents Tom and Linda, her fiancé Daniel, and the Lord. For sweet Myra. Psalm 77:11-12