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About the Show
Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Faced with the harsh realities that his father is on the naughty list and his half-brother doesn’t even believe in Santa, Buddy is determined to win over his new family and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas.
Musical Numbers
Act One
Overture (Orchestra)
Happy All The Time (Santa, Buddy, Company)
World’s Greatest Dad (Buddy)
In the Way (Deb, Walter, Emily, Michael, Company)
Sparklejollytwinklejingley (Buddy, Store Manager, Company)
I’ll Believe in You (Michael and Emily)
In the Way (reprise) (Emily and Walter)
Just Like Him (Buddy, Deb, Company)
A Christmas Song (Buddy, Jovie, Company)
World’s Greatest Dad (reprise) (Buddy and Company)
Act Two
Entr’acte (Orchestra)
Nobody Cares (Fake Santas, Store Manager, Waitress, Buddy)
Never Fall in Love With an Elf (Jovie)
There Is a Santa Claus (Michael and Emily)
The Story of Buddy (Buddy, Michael, Walter, Emily, Deb,
Chadwick, Matthews, Greenway, Company)
Nobody Cares (reprise) (Santa)
A Christmas Song (reprise) (Jovie, Buddy, Emily, Michael, Walter, Company)
Finale (Buddy, Walter, Jovie, Emily, Michael, Company)
Director’s Message

Holidays, in my family, are filled with traditions, from decorating the Christmas tree and making cookies to watching holiday films together. Elf has become one of those beloved traditions.
I remember my first viewing of the film and the pure joy and genuine laughter I shared with my family as we watched Buddy the Elf discover New York City for the first time. There is such a wonderful innocence and simple perspective that Buddy brings to a world of chaos and bitterness. He is such a great symbol and a reminder for all of us to enjoy the world around us with child-like wonderment, joy and hope. There is often so much going on in our lives that it seems impossible to live in the present without stressing about the future.
After over two years of the stress of the pandemic and the absence of live theatre It certainly feels like the world could use a bit more of Buddy the Elf’s perspective to spread some good cheer all year round and believe in the unbelievable.
My hope, as you watch the show, is that you can share some laughs and live in the moment with your loved ones, creating some holiday memories as this incredible cast spreads some cheer by singing loud for all to hear.
Happy Holidays!
Martin Buote
Director
The Creative & Production Team



Martin Buote - Director
Martin is a member of Marquee’s Board of Directors and is very proud of the great work they do for the community. He has worked in both professional and community theatre for over 30 years. Some of his recent credits include Officer Lockstockin, Theatre Aurora’s Urinetown, for which he was awarded a THEA for Best supporting actor in a musical, Fagin in Oliver! Sparky in Forever Plaid and Captain Hook in Peter Pan for Marquee Productions. He has also directed several productions including Marquees’ Bye Bye Birdie, BIG! The musical and has pulled double duty as the Artistic Director and Voice of the plant in Little shop of Horrors and Director and Genie for Marquee Productions Aladdin, and Hairspray. He trusts that you’ll enjoy watching this show just as much as he enjoyed working with this amazing cast and artistic team.


Baiba Senecal - Choreographer
What a delight to be back at live theatre with such a happy show. Baiba would like to thank the cast for their patience as she fumbled through the “holly sparkle jingle twinkly “ lyrics and while she tried to make sense of her choreo notes.
Sit back and enjoy the magic!


Cheryl Cline - Music Director
Cheryl is excited to share the music of “Elf” with this terrific Marquee cast! She is a proud graduate of the Master of Fine Arts (Musical Theatre) Program at San Diego State University, and holds Bachelor degrees in music and education as well. Cheryl is an active member of the arts community in York Region as a teacher, director and performer. Most recent credits include directing and producing “School of Rock”, “The Little Mermaid” and “Les Miserables” for Newmarket High School’s Musical Theatre program. Favourite other roles include: Vocal Director for “Shrek”, Ms. Sherman in “Fame”, and Demeter in “Cats” all for Unionville Theatre Company, and Director for “Rent”, Music Director for “Les Miserables – School Edition”, and Marmee in “Little Women” for Steppin’ Out Productions. Cheryl is currently Department Head of Music at Newmarket High School, and she is excited to support musical theatre in our community.


Sheryl Thomas - Producer/Executive Director-Marquee Theatrical Productions
Original Founder and Executive Director of Marquee, Sheryl has been in the magical Musical Theatre world both on and off-stage for over 45 years (who said that?). Stemming from a musical family, she lives her passion every day at Marquee, assisting the youth in our community to grow in confidence through Marquee’s educational programs.. With over 25 adult and youth programs/shows per year, this creative outlet keeps her feeling fulfilled. This truly is her dream job. Special thanks to our team leaders, and to this warm and talented cast and crew for their tremendous hard work and positive attitudes. You are such amazing people! She sends her love and sincere thanks to her hubby Brad for his understanding, patience and ongoing support.


Robert Cline - Stage Manager
Robert is excited to be working for the first time with Marquee Productions as Stage Manager for this year’s production! Recent Stage Manager credits are with Ovation (“Something Rotten” (2022), Show of Shows (2022)), UTC (Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” (2020), Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” (2019), “The Wizard of Oz” (2018), “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” (2017), Disney’s “Little Mermaid” (2016)). Outside of theatre, Roberts works as a Senior Product Analyst and enjoys driving his Challengers, his Voodoo at the cottage – all while listening to a little country music. Congratulations to the cast of “Elf The Musical” on an amazing show and a huge thanks to Sheryl, Martin, Cheryl and Baiba for their support and efforts bringing this show to the stage!!


Dale Matushige - Conductor
This is Dale’s 9th musical production with Marquee Theatrical Productions since retiring from her role of high school music teacher. She continues to involve herself in numerous musical activities: trombonist in the After Hours Big Band, singer/accompanist in Take Note Vocal Ensemble and Conductor of the Newmarket Citizens Band. Dale gives special thanks to the members of the Elf Band, for their friendship, talents, commitment and the many hours of practice put into their craft. Much love to her husband Itsu and family for continued love and support of all her musical endeavours. Dale sends hugs to her favourite little folks, Rowen, Avery and Jake: enjoy the show!!


Dave Taugher - Assistant Stage Manager
Dave is thrilled to be part of another Marquee production. He has previously work as an Assistant Stage Manager for over a dozen shows including Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, Les Miserable, and We Will Rock You to name a few. Dave is pleased to be working with so many talented, energetic, and fearless people, and hopes you enjoy the show as much he has enjoyed working on it. When not involved in musical theatre Dave works downtown Toronto as a computer engineer. Also a big thanks to my man Craig for your continuous love and support. Enjoy the Show!


Rebecca Prins - Assistant Stage Manager
Rebecca is excited to be back in the theatre and working with this incredible cast and crew. She has been involved in multiple Marquee productions, both on and behind the stage, including Les Mis, Wizard of Oz, WWRY, Joseph and many more. Thanks to the family for their support and Midas for the snuggles. Rebecca is extra excited to be featured in Dave T’s (the Selfie King) many backstage pictures as smiling is her favourite!


Brenda Hillaby - Costume Co-Ordinator
Brenda is delighted to be “back” as the Costumer for ELF. Being part of the fantastic theatre family at Marquee has been part of Brenda’s life for many years as she has been a Performer (The Sound of Music, Wizard of Oz, Les Mis, Mary Poppins, The Little Mermaid, All Shook Up, Mamma Mia) Assistant Stage Manager and Head of the Costume Department for numerous adult and youth productions. The drive from Orangeville is well worth it as she loves every moment of her theatre life and her theatre family. Enjoy this spirited and talented cast and be sure to keep singing loud for all to hear. Luca and Leo…xoxo Nana


Peter Thorton - Set Design, Construction Lead
Peter has designed sets for Marquee since its inception. With about 100 set designs, Peter finds that when he thinks he has reached the limits of his abilities, some new challenge arises. He designed the flying car for Marquee’s past production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, a true spectacle that the audience enjoyed. That’s his purpose. To design something that the audience will enjoy. This set is no exception to that statement. He wants to thank his wife, Beauty, who puts up with his absences and sends his thanks to his partners in crime, Nick and Brad for all these construction endeavours.
Nick Cobbold - Set Construction
Nick has been involved in community theatre for over 30 years. Graduating from Ryerson in Theatre Technical Production, he uses the knowledge he learned with his love of construction to help Marquee build their sets for the last 15 years now. Thanks to his wife Diane for her constant support.
Brad Morrison - Set Construction
Always ready to lend a hand, Brad has been helping out with set needs at Marquee since 2009. In jest, he tends to wear the hat of “Procurement Manager” to get supplies required for all projects at Marquee. He enjoys meeting all the great people at Marquee and loves to see it all come together. He hopes that you enjoy the show!
Yvonne Hoben - Props
Yvonne is very excited to be helping out with Elf The Musical. Musical theatre is a passion of hers and she prefers to be a part of it behind the scenes. Yvonne is a wife and a mom of 2 teenage girls who have always been involved in the arts. She works at a local elementary school as a Special Education Assistant and loves being able to give back to her community.
Lori Sandler - Props
Lori is a retired social worker who spent her career working for CAS, YRDSB, Sick Kids and various other organizations within the special needs community. She has always loved live theatre and has enjoyed coming out to see her nephew and nieces perform in Marquee productions over the past several years. When the opportunity to get involved in a production herself came up, she jumped at it. She’s looking forward to her first backstage experience!


The Cast


Anthony Chow - Store Manager, Ensemble
Anthony is delighted to join the cast and crew of Elf in spreading Christmas cheer this holiday season! This is his first show with Marquee and, frankly, the entire experience – he can’t lie – it makes him tingle! Many thanks to friends old and new for their support and guidance. *Please note his portrayal of middle management is purely fictional; no identification with actual persons should be inferred. Enjoy the show!


Benjamin Conroy - Buddy
Benjamin is jingling with excitement to be a part of ELF! He can’t wait to invite you into the wonderful story of Buddy. This is his first show with Marquee and he has had a blast working with this team. Benjamin graduated from the Canadian College of Performing Arts in Victoria BC where he received a diploma in Musical Theatre. While attending school, Benjamin was seen in West Side Story as Baby John, Newsies as Jack Kelly and The Crucible as Giles Corey. Other stage credits include How To Succeed In Business, Oliver and Mary Poppins (Oshawa little Theatre) Grease, Little Shop Of Horrors and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (First Act Youth Company). He would like to thank his friends and family for their extended support in his theatre endeavours and sends a special shoutout to Nicole Strawbridge (Jovie) who he couldn’t be more thrilled to be sharing the stage with once again!


Chloe McArthur - Elf, Ensemble
Chloe McArthur is in grade 3 at Stonehaven Elementary School in Newmarket. Having grown up watching her family in musicals, Chloe is thrilled to perform in her first show on stage! She has participated in two years of Marquee’s Summer Camps during covid, where she did “Camp Rock” and “Seussical”. Chloe is very excited to play an Elf and share her Christmas spirit. Outside of theatre Chloe enjoys gymnastics and horse back riding. She thanks her family for all their enthusiasm in all things musical.


Chyler Horton - Elf, Ensemble
Chyler is very excited to be doing her first adult cast show. Made even more special because she’s sharing the stage with her mom! She has really loved making new friends in this cast. Chyler has played the role of Jasper in 101 Dalmatian’s junior (kinderstages), Mowgli in the jungle book (kinderstages) and Jane in the Descendants (intermediate youth group). Chyler plays hockey and loves to dance, which she started doing competitively last year. Other things she loves: Spider-Man, swimming, playing with friends and little brother Coen, hanging out on FaceTime with cousin Addison, reading superhero books with daddy and doing crafts with mom. Thank you mom and dad for driving me everywhere and always making sure I have snacks. Special thanks to Grammy, Grandpa, Nana and Morfar for all the love and support.


Clive Lacey - Walter Hobbs
A community theatre director, designer, and performer Clive has been involved in over 60 productions in and around Toronto. This is Clive’s second show with Marquee previously filling the grumpy but teachable father role in Mary Poppins. Hmm? Elsewhere: Higgins, My Fair Lady; Fagin, Oliver; Julian Marsh, 42nd Street; all with EMP; Senex in SMT’s Funny thing Happened on the Way to the Forum; Buddy in Follies with Theatre Unlimited; Higgins with Clarkson Musical Theatre and about 40 other characters here and there. Thanks to Martin, Baiba, and especially Cheryl for all their hard work and patience. Clive’s most recent post-pandemic performance was as Harry Raymond in Scarborough Guild’s production of Stillborn Lover. Now for something completely different.


David Moore - Greenway
This is David’s 20th season with Marquee. He has been a part of over 30 musicals as an actor, stage manager and producer. Some of his favourite roles include Professor Callahan in Legally Blonde, Sheriff Earl in All Shook Up, Mr. McMillan in Big. He has had the pleasure of sharing the stage with some exceptional actors and Elf is no exception. Thanks to the creative team for their amazing work and vision for this wonderful holiday treat. David is a retired elementary school principal who continues to sing with 4 local choral groups, and does freelance work as a photographer, videographer, audio recorder and animator. He would like to thank his amazing wife Anne and his family for their ongoing support of his theatrical pursuits. Always remember that the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear! Merry Christmas and enjoy the show!


Dave Simpson - Santa Claus
Dave is very happy to finally be back working with Marquee. Dave’s previous encounters of a theatrical nature besides backstage work have been as a chorus member in “Godspell”, “Oliver!” and “Little Shop of Horrors”, Pilate in “Jesus Christ Superstar”, the Captain in “Anything Goes”, Jacob in “Joseph”, the Grandfather in “Guys and Dolls”, Tevye in “Fiddler on the Roof”, Mayor Shinn, in “The Music Man”. In fact, any show that needs an old guy with a beard! Dave is truly thankful to longsuffering Mrs. Claus (Judy) for her support and encouragement to get out of the house.


Elizabeth Keith - Ensemble
Elizabeth is thrilled to be making her official musical theatre debut as part of the ensemble in Elf! She has always loved singing and dancing and is excited to be bringing that love to this show. Elizabeth is a local reporter, wife, amateur baker and Christmas movie fanatic! She wants to thank her amazing castmates, the team behind the scenes, and Marquee for the opportunity to be a part of this incredible production. She wouldn’t be here without the support and encouragement of her family and friends! Elizabeth hopes you leave here tonight feeling sparklejollytwinklejingley!


Granaz Ghalehvand - Ensemble
Elf the musical is Grace’s first experience in musical theatre and adult productions. Grace is part of the ensemble in this show and is thrilled to perform on the stage for the first time. This experience has given her a chance to explore her talents in musical theatre and she would love to perform in more shows in the future. Grace is a full time pharmacist and works at a clinic during the day. She is an avid music lover and has been taking vocal lessons for a few years. She is also taking piano and dance lessons in her spare time. Grace loves to sing and dance and is very excited to be part of this fun show.


Helen Kelson - Dance Captain, Sam, Ensemble
Welcome back to the glitz and glam of theatre life, along with a good dose of gumdrops this year! Helen is happy to be back onstage with Marquee, having previously performed in Mary Poppins, Joseph, All Shook Up, We Will Rock You, and Matilda. Cheers to Baiba for her trust, Martin for the inspiration, Cheryl and Rob for their patience and expertise, and Sheryl for all you do! Love to her ever-supportive family — her husband and biggest fan Josh, her Hero Penny, and her favourite Elf Jack, and Mom and Dad. And YOU are on The Nice List for supporting community theatre! Merry Christmas!


Joshua Ublansky - Macy’s Santa, Charlie, Jim, Ensemble
Josh is a lifelong fan of musical theatre who is thrilled to finally be in his first production. Elf rehearsals have been the highlights of his week and he is grateful for the fun, friendly, and supportive cast and crew who made this an incredible experience. Although new to the world of theatre, he has always enjoyed the music from a young age and grew up singing along to shows like Mamma Mia, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and many Disney movies! Josh (or as some call him, Mr. Ublansky) is a high school science teacher who likes to sing, play guitar, and learn about obscure random facts in his spare time. He may be a “fake” Santa Claus, but he guarantees to bring real Christmas (and Hanukkah) cheer by singing loud for all of you to hear!


Julie Lennick - Deb, Mrs. Claus
Julie is thrilled to join the cast of Elf, The Musical with Marquee Theatre Productions! A retired Toronto Police dispatcher, Julie has called Newmarket her home for almost eight years. After her birth in a trunk to Canadian actors Ben and Sylvia Lennick, theatre has always been in her blood. Favourite previous roles include Mama Rose in Gypsy, Anna in The Rink, Adelaide in Guys and Dolls, Sally in Cabaret and Rizzo in Grease. She recently portrayed Melissa in a Toronto production of Love Letters. When not saving children as a school crossing guard, Julie has her hands full running agility with her rescue pup, riding her horse and letting her cats boss her around. She is very happy to get back on the boards in her own neighbourhood!


Krystal Sandler - Emily Hobbs
Krystal is excited to finally be back in the theatre playing the sweet, but feisty role of Emily in this fun family musical! Elf marks Krystal’s 5th show with Marquee and the first with her daughter Madelyn. Previous credits include Matilda, Mamma Mia, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Marquee’s studio has become like a second home for her entire family in recent years and she’s so grateful for the wonderful friendships that have formed there. When Krystal is not performing, she’s busy being a mom and running her graphic design business. Many thanks go out to Randy and her very supportive family, friends and fabulously talented creative team!


Kynsi Horton - Charlotte Dennon, Ensemble
Kynsi has really loved getting to learn Baiba’s choreography and dance with all the cast members. She has been a part of the Marquee family for almost 15 years and has met so many important people in her life through doing shows here. She has had the honour of being a part of BIG the Musical, Legally Blonde and Mamma Mia with Marquee and loved ever second of it. Elf the musical is a fun holiday show filled with so much joy and she couldn’t be happier that her daughter Chyler is finally old enough to do a show with her! Thanks so much to Kevin for all the extra support while Chyler and I were busy with rehearsals! Special shout out to Coen and all our family and friends, love you!


Laurie Thomas - Chadwick, Police Officer, Ensemble
Laurie was bitten by the “musical theatre bug” in her grade 11 year at Aurora High School when she performed the role of Schroeder in You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown. She has been involved in over 25 of Marquee’s productions, either performing on stage, playing in the orchestra or carrying out the duties of Music Director. Her favourite roles include Lily in Annie, Silly Girl in Beauty and the Beast, Brooke in Legally Blonde, multiple characters in Shrek, and Sylvia in All Shook Up. This show is extra-special for Laurie, since it is the first time in many years that she is performing alongside her Dad, Paul. Laurie would like to thank Marquee for another performance opportunity, the artistic team for their leadership and the cast for all the fun memories and friendships.


Lee Valler - Emma Van Brocklin, Ensemble
Lee is thrilled to make her Marquee debut in Elf The Musical alongside her fiancé Josh! She has been performing in community musical theatre for over 15 years and has loved every minute of it. Her most recent show was Footloose at Wilfrid Laurier University. She enjoys working as an Autism Behavioural Therapist and running her own dog training company, “Pawsitive Pups”. Lee has a service dog, Jagger, who has been a great support for her and a fluffy face for the cast to see each week. He hopes to one day make his theatre debut too! Lee is grateful to her fiancé, friends, and family for their love and support and would like to thank all involved in Elf for making this such a rewarding experience. Sit back and enjoy the snow…I mean show!


Lia Baird - Tiara, Ensemble
Lia is so grateful to be back working with an incredible cast and crew, and to be back on stage! With a never-ending passion for dance and theatre, she is glad to finally return with a show full of magic and holiday spirit for the whole family! Lia joined the Marquee family in 2018 for We Will Rock You, followed by Mamma Mia. Other show highlights include: The Addams Family & Shrek the Musical with City Youth Players, Footloose & Celebrate 10 Musical Revue with Steppin’ Out Theatrical Productions. A huge thank you to all the elves who had a hand in bringing this SparkleJolly show to life – builders, painters, props, stage crew, families and more. It takes a [Santa’s] village, and we couldn’t have done it without you!


Madelyn Sandler - Elf, Ensemble
Elf is Madelyn’s first adult production, but she’s no stranger to the stage! Since her very first role of “Flounder” in Marquee’s The Little Mermaid Kids at the tender age of 4, Madelyn has gone on to perform in 8 additional Marquee productions in their fabulous kids programs! Favourite roles include “Matilda” in Matilda Jr., “Carlos” in Disney’s Descendants and she will soon be appearing as “Donkey” in Marquee’s upcoming performance of Shrek Jr. in January. Madelyn is in grade 4 at Northern Lights Public School and when not doing theatre, she enjoys playing soccer, creating art and playing with anything squishy. As a lover of everything to do with Christmas, Madelyn is very excited to be part of this production!


Nathan Chou - Elf, Macy’s Boy, Ensemble
Nathan is thrilled to be in his first “adult” musical! Thanks to Marquee for starting his theatre journey several years ago in their amazing kids program! He has played ‘Baloo’ in The Jungle Book, ‘Michael Hobbs’ in Elf Jr, ‘Bruce Bogtrotter’ in Matilda Jr, and will be starring in the upcoming Shrek Jr production as ‘Donkey.’ Thanks to his family for supporting his love of theatre!


Nicole Strawbridge - Jovie
Nicole is a graduate of The Randolph College for the Performing Arts where she studied voice, acting, and dance. She has performed around the GTA in various festivals, corporate events, and musical productions. Favourite stage credits include Miss Honey – Matilda The Musical, Julia Sullivan – The Wedding Singer, Jo March – Little Women, Mary Poppins – Mary Poppins, Cosette – Les Miserables, Woman 1 – Songs For A New World, and Serena – Legally Blonde. Aside from being on stage, she also works behind the scenes as a stage manager, producer, director, choreographer, and audition coach. Nicole sends a huge shout out to her partner Colin for coaching her material and being the most supportive human on the planet (Love you to the moon and back)! So much love to her family, friends and of course her ride or die Benjamin (Buddy The Elf). Enjoy the show!


Paul Thomas - Matthews, Police Officer, Ensemble
Has been involved in music for over 60 years. Was the lead singer, played bass guitar, rhythm guitar, keyboards and drums in three rock bands and played bass for three Anglican churches. Has appeared on stage in Jesus Christ SuperStar, Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Annie and Guys and Dolls. Has been involved in set building for Marquee since day one. Loves working with wood and is an accomplished Artisan. It has been years since appearing in a musical and is very happy to be performing in this show. Many thanks to my two beautiful daughters, Sheryl and Laurie for all the encouragement and help they gave me to prepare for this adventure. To Director Martyn and his production crew for trusting in me and allowing me to be a part of musical theatre once again.


Penelope Halkidis - Elf, Ensemble
Penelope is 9 years old and in the 5th grade. Penelope started her acting career at 8 years old with the production “High School Musical” and after her first taste of the Musical theater world she was hooked. Penelope has also been a part of Mary Poppins, Matilda, and is working on Shrek. In her free time Penelope enjoys drawing, reading and she has even begun to write her own plays. She is currently trying to have her school on board with her plays. She is excited to tell you sit, relax and enjoy the show!


Sebastian Dobre - Michael Hobbs
Sebastian is very excited to make his acting debut in the adult musical Elf. He loves being a 5th grader at Oak Ridges Public School. When he’s not in school, Sebastian enjoys playing soccer, spending time with his friends and family, watching movies and playing his Nintendo switch. Sebastian would like to thank his mom and dad, for their love and support. He also wants to thank Marquee for giving him this opportunity to enjoy this experience.


Shayla Cytrynbaum - Elf, Ensemble
Shayla Cytrynbaum, 9 years old, is honoured to be part of Elf the Musical! Shayla lives in Aurora, Ontario with her parents and younger brother. She is a French Immersion student in Grade 4 at Lester B Pearson P.S. Shayla is best known for her roles as Lavender in Matilda the Musical, Charlie in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and for her various roles in Elf Jr the Musical. She is currently also in the cast of Shrek Jr the Musical. Shayla’s favourite subjects is school are English, French and Gym. In her spare time, Shayla enjoys acting, singing, dancing, gymnastics, trampolining, Roblox, Animal Crossing and playing with Lego. She is also an avid reader who loves to swim. Shayla would like to express her gratitude to Marquee Theatrical Productions for this wonderful opportunity!
The Band


Adrian Lo - Bass
Adrian Lo is a Hong Kong born Chinese-Canadian conductor, bassist, composer and educator. His earliest musical influences came from his training as a classical pianist, and from his father’s love for 60s pop-rock. He received his bachelor’s degree in Music Education (Jazz) at the University of Toronto, Faculty of Music in 2022. Currently, he is a graduate student at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE), working to complete his Master of Teaching degree. Adrian is thrilled to return to Marquee Theatrical Productions as a bassist following his 2016 theatre debut with the company’s production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat!


Dawn Ellis-Mobbs - Flute
Dawn Ellis-Mobbs is an experienced flutist, freelance musician and music educator who has performed with several orchestras and chamber ensembles in Ontario. Dawn has performed with the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony, Kitchener-Waterloo Chamber Orchestra, Orchestra Toronto and Ottawa Valley Festival and was a member of the Ardeleana Trio. She is passionate about community music and completed a Master of Arts in Community Music degree following her studies in Orchestral Performance at the Glenn Gould School. Dawn has worked with students in JK – Grade 12 as a music educator and has recently worked with the Toronto Symphony and musiccare by Room 217 as an arts administrator designing programs in music education.


Ernesto De Luca - Tenor Sax, Clarinet
Seasoned musician with 18 years of experience, currently studying piano and organ with Karen Rymal. As well, plays flute and tenor saxophone. He is proficient at accompaniment and innovative compositions for chamber and ensemble rehearsals. Currently as the Music Director of All Saints Anglican Church in King City, he is hardworking and diligent with a fluent understanding of church music and worship. He has performed with orchestras across GTA, such as the York University Orchestra, the Kindred Spirits Orchestra (KSO), and the Greater Toronto Philharmonic Orchestra (GTPO). His passion for collaborative ensembles spanned to performing as a musician in the pit band for musicals, such as “Into the Woods” and many others.


Fred Lock - Flute, Piccolo, Clarinet, Alto Sax
Fred began his musical career on the Clarinet which he played exclusively throughout elementary and high school receiving multiple awards. While earning a diploma in jazz & commercial music at Humber College he learned the Flute and, Saxophone which became his primary focus while studying jazz performance at York University (and beyond). Fred can be seen performing regularly in Toronto and the GTA in various Jazz, Funk, and R&B groups. He is looking forward to joining the band for the Marquee production of ELF.


Glenda Colucci - Keyboard
Elf is Glenda’s first experience with a performance pit band. She is playing keyboard but will sound more like a string quartet and other assorted instruments. Glenda also plays tenor sax with Newmarket Citizens Band and After Hours Big Band.


Joseph Naccarato - Drums
Thrilled to be back for his eighth show with Marquee as a member of the band. Previous productions that Joseph has been involved with include All Shook Up, Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and We Will Rock You. Music has always been a vital part of his life and he continues to pursue numerous musical avenues, including driving the rhythm of an 18 piece Big Band. He is thankful and very appreciative of the efforts of the entire Marquee family to bring this fantastic musical to life!


Lydia Van der Veen - Keyboard
Lydia is very excited to be joining the amazing band of Marquee Theatre Productions, back live (YAY!), having previously had the pleasure of playing Keyboards in Little Mermaid and Chitty-Chitty Bang-Bang, as well as being in the casts of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, All Shook Up! and Matilda. When not busy practicing and rehearsing, she is an elementary homeroom and Music teacher with the York Region District School Board. Lydia is extremely grateful for this opportunity, and would like to thank her family, whose support and flexibility have allowed her to, again, indulge in her love of being involved in musical theatre!


Michael Kearns - Trombone
Michael is excited to perform with this talented group. He has played trombone in various productions before in Florida, Indiana, and Ontario, including Crazy for You, The Threepenny Opera, A Chorus Line, and The Music Man. Additionally with Princess Cruise Lines, Royal Caribbean Cruises, and Carnival Cruise Lines, he has performed a variety of Vegas-style shows. A highlight of his career was playing the “Rat Pack Show” at Fallsview Casino Resort in Niagara Falls. Michael looks forward to this production and the magic it will bring to Newmarket.


Susan Guido - Trumpet
Susan Guido grew up with music being a significant part of her life. She returned to music ten years ago, immersing herself within the music community. She is a member of the Aurora Concert Band, organized a small ensemble North of Dixie, co-founder of Borealis Big Band and also a member of the Motown/R&B dance extravaganza called Soul Benefit. Susan has been able to live out her dream of being a member of many pit bands for different music theatre companies within the for shows such as Assassins, All Shook Up and Matilda. She is excited to be returning to Marque Theatrical Productions. Susan is thankful for the love and support of her family. Music has been a personally rewarding experience and many times the light within life’s challenges.


Tim Henry - Trombone
Tim has a degree in Music Education and taught in high schools in York Region for over 25 years. Though currently retired, Tim plays in several community concert bands and jazz bands in addition to being the founder and trombonist in the professional Blackboard Blues Band. He continues to keep up his music teaching interest by leading a jazz band as part of the New Horizons program for adult musicians. Tim is glad to be a part of this fun show.


Vittorio Polsoni - Baritone Sax, Bass Clarinet, Clarinet
Vittorio has been on musical ride with MARQUEE for many shows. Being a senior, he gets very emotional when he gets invited back again to join the “pit” band. There is a lot of excitement when all his family ( even grandkids ) come to the shows! He still enjoys riding his bicycle ( an ancient PEUGEOT ), and loves to spend time at his Georgian Bay cottage…it’s a good life!


Behind the Scenes
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Rehearsals
Backstage Fun
























































Promo Video

