August 5, 2007

Palace of Fine Arts Theatre
San Francisco

CAST DETAILS

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PERFORMERS

Susan Anton

Mary Jo Catlett

Connie Champagne

Carole Cook

Raúl Esparza

Jason Graae

Maurice Hines

Paullette Ivory

Lucy Lawless

Kimberley Locke

Jon Maher

Joey McIntyre

Freda Payne

Sarah Lowe

Valarie Pettiford

Jai Rodriguez

Andrew Samonsky

Phoebe Snow

Bruce Vilanch

Paula West

Marissa Jaret Winokur

Carol Woods

BD Wong

Stars of Jersey Boys

Michael Orland
Musical Director

David Galligan
Director

SUSAN ANTON

It was over 30 years ago that Susan Anton first burst into public consciousness and, ever since she has been captivating theater, television, and film-going audiences with an ingratiating style and easy charm that is found among only a handful of performers. Her five and a half year tenure in Las Vegas as Special Guest Star with the Great Radio City Music Hall Spectacular and its renowned Rockettes, preceded by a 2 year U.S. national tour of the same production, makes her not only one of the most popular and glamorous stars on the Las Vegas Strip, but a true veteran of the theatre. During time off from the Radio City show, Susan headlined her own one woman show to sold-out audiences for two months at the prestigious Desert Inn Hotel and brought back to Las Vegas a type of entertainment rarely found there today.

Far removed from the glamour and lights of Las Vegas, however, was Susan’s early life…a life that bore more than just a slight resemblance to television’s Walton’s. The daughter of a police detective and the eldest of five children, Susan was raised in the small town of Oak Glenn, California on an apple ranch. Susan attended high school in the neighboring valley of Yucaipa. And, it was there, that her life began to change dramatically. On a dare from her high school boyfriend, she entered the Miss Redlands beauty contest. Entranced with the charisma of such performers as Doris Day, Susan Hayward, and Ginger Rogers, Susan elected to sing the torch song, “Since I Fell for You.” The powerful performance, aside from her intellect and obvious beauty, left the judges with no decision other than to award her the Redlands title. Susan continued her success in pageants by winning the Miss California crown in 1969 and went on to become second runner-up to Miss America in 1970

Susan appeared in numerous television commercials as the Muriel Girl. Her co-stars in those spots often included other budding stars such as Treat Williams and Tom Selleck. The campaign, hugely popular with the American public, was the catalyst for many appearances on the Las Vegas Strip, the first in which she headlined a production called “Turn it On” with French heartthrob Jean-Paul Vignon at the Hacienda Hotel. From that point forward, she appeared frequently on “The Merv Griffin Show” and quickly became one of Merv’s favorite guests. Susan’s appearances on Merv placed her firmly in the national spotlight and served as a launching pad for her transition into theater, films and television.

Susan made her Broadway debut by replacing Candice Bergen in David Rabe’s Tony nominated play “Hurleyburly,” directed by Mike Nichols. The show not only featured Susan, but a cast of both established stars and newcomers, including Danny Aiello, Kevin Spacey, and Frank Langella. Preceding “Hurleyburly,” she starred in the U.S. national touring company of the Neil Simon/Marvin Hamlisch musical “They’re Playing Our Song” and toured the U.S. with Elizabeth Ashley in “A Couple of White Chicks Sitting Around Talking”. She returned to Broadway in 1991 to co-star with Keith Carridine and the original Broadway cast of Tommy Tune’s Tony award winning musical “The Will Rogers Follies.”

Susan returned to the stage when she starred in Eve Ensler’s “The Vagina Monologues” at the Alcazar Theatre in San Francisco (June 2001), the Canon and Coronet Theatres in Los Angeles (August 2001) and the Cashman Center Theatre in Las Vegas (October 2002). She continues to perform in Las Vegas and around the country annually.

Susan first emerged on the big screen in the film “Goldengirl,” and went on to appear in such other films as “Making Mr. Right” (with John Malkovich), “Cannonball Run II” (with Shirley MacLaine and Burt Reynolds) and “New Jersey Turnpikes” (with Kelsey Grammer). And, as she has in every other medium, Susan has been a significant star on the small screen. For three seasons, she was part of the cast of the world’s most popular television series “Baywatch” playing the role of Jackie Quinn. She starred in the international series “Sail Away with Susan Anton”, as well as The Travel Channel’s “Las Vegas!” produced by Susan and her husband, Jeff Lester. She also hosted “Perfect Buns”, one of the most prominent exercise infomercials on television.
Susan’s other television credits include the Warner Brother’s series “Nick Freno, Licensed Teacher;” NBC’s “City Guys;” the critically acclaimed Steven Bochco series “Civil Wars;” as well as “Quantum Leap,” “Night Court,” and “Murder She Wrote.” She starred in ABC’s “Cliffhangers” as well as her own variety show on NBC, “Presenting Susan Anton.” She has displayed her comic abilities on Gary Shandling’s “Larry Sanders Show,” “The Ben Stiller Show” and “Blossom.” This is Susan’s forth appearance in a “Help is on the Way” production. . TOP

MARY JO CATLETT

A versatile actress and comedienne, Ms. Catlett's career has spanned film, television, Broadway and regional theater. Her film credits include "Serial Mom," "The Champ", "Best Little Whorehouse in Texas," "O'Hara's Wife" and "Semi-Tough." On television, she was nominated for an Emmy for her role as Mary Finnegan on "General Hospital", was a regular on "Diff'rent Strokes", and appeared in such shows as "Murder She Wrote," "MASH," "Mr. Belvedere," "Bob Newhart," "Night Court," "Matlock," "Gimme a Break," "Saved by the Bell", "Fantasy Island", "Maude", and "Kojak". On Broadway, Ms. Catlett was the original Ernestina in "Hello Dolly!", played Mabel in "Pajama Game," and appeared in "Canterbury Tales," "Lysistrata" with Melina Mercouri, "Fashion", "Different Times" (as six different characters), "Promenade", "Play Me a Country Song", and "Something's Afoot." In regional theater, Mary Jo appeared as Madame de la Grand Bouche in "Beauty and the Beast," as Lotte in "Lettice and Lovage", Lola in "Come Back Little Sheba" (for which she won a LA Drama Critics Award), Mama Rose in "Gypsy," Mother Superior in "Nunsense", Madge in "Philadelphia Here I Come" (another LA Drama Critics Award), Annie in "Annie Get Your Gun," and with Robert Morse in "How to Succeed in Business." Audiences may also recognize her from her over 30 national commercials. Ms. Catlett’s most recent role was that of Mrs. Puff in “Spongebob Square Pants.” This is her eighth appearance in "Help is on the Way." TOP

CONNIE CHAMPAGNE

Connie Champagne began her eclectic career with roles at San Francisco’s Magic Theatre and Theatre on the Square, and holds an MFA from the American Conservatory Theatre. She was recruited by "Vegas In Space" director Phillip R. Ford to portray the cult heroine Neely O’Hara in his long-running stage adaptation of "Valley of the Dolls", which inspired her interest in drag as a theatrical form. An “unwitting pioneer of the Cocktail Nation,” Champagne was the winner of the SF Weekly Wammie Award for Outstanding Cabaret Performer for her work with Scrumbly Koldewyn in "Connie Champagne and her Tiny Bubbles."

Champagne has toured extensively with swing band The New Morty Show, and recorded a CD, "Morty-fied," on SlimStyle Records. For a full discography, visit conniechampagne.com/music.html. She continues to sing with the group to this day. In addition to NMS, Champagne has shared the stage with a variety of artists and groups including: Romeo Void (supporting Cindy Lauper), Brian Setzer, Chris Isaak, the Magnum Brutes, the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus, and Royal Crown Revue, and has been nominated for the Cable Car Awards' Entertainer of the Year. The San Francisco Examiners’ Readers Poll, compiled by staff writer Julian Guthrie, rated Connie #30 among “...the Top One Hundred Best Things About San Francisco,” (ten notches above the Golden Gate Bridge!) Robin Eisgrau of New York 's THE PAPER magazine listed Connie among her top ten faves, and Research Magazine creator V Vale devotes a chapter to Connie’s unique life and career in his book "Swing! The New Retro Renaissance" (V Search Publications).

Well-known for her roles portraying Judy Garland, Champagne first appeared as the legendary star in the Off-Broadway production of "Christmas With The Crawfords." New York Times critic Neil Genzlinger described Champagne’s performance as “a subtle masterpiece of parody and homage.” Champagne again received rave notices for her performance as Garland—this time on the other side of the rainbow—in the Los Angeles production of "Judy’s Scary Little Christmas" directed by Broadway legend Kay Cole, for which she won the Ovation Award™ for Best Actress in a Musical. Inspired by Harry Lit of Castrobear Presents, Champagne, along with director F. Allen Sawyer and musical director Joseph Collins, created" , which played to sold-out audiences at the Empire Plush Room. The show was subsequently the recipient of the Dean Goodman Award for Outstanding Cabaret show. With Collins and Sawyer again on board, Champagne revisits Garland at the New Conservatory Theatre Center in "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road." As she did in" iMagine," Champagne assembled the repertoire Garland might sing today—ballads from the likes of Rufus Wainwright and Elton John, show-stoppers from Peter Allen and John Cameron Mitchell, and some improbable rock tunes that take on a whole new meaning, once they’ve been Judy-fied.

Connie Champagne has been a treasured regular at impresario Marc Huestis’ Castro Theatre extravaganzas, sharing the stage with camp master John Waters and show biz legends Ann Miller and Debbie Reynolds, to name a few. In her spare time, Champagne also sings with the Mood Swing Orchestra and with vocal group, the Whoa Nellies. Mood Swing performs traditional big band tunes in the style of the 1940s, while the Nellies (led by Leigh Crow, formerly Elvis Herselvis) features pop bubblegum hits by the Mamas & the Papas, the Cowsills, Partridge Family, and their favorite—the Monkees—a perfect blend of harmony and camp. This is Connie's second appearance in a "Help is on the Way" production.. TOP

CAROLE COOK

Carole created the role of Maggie Jones in the New York, Los Angeles and Tokyo companies of Michael Stewart and Mark Bramble's Tony Award winning musical, "42nd Street," and originated the role of Blanche Daly in Bernard Slade's Broadway hit, "Romantic Comedy." She was the first actress in the world to follow Carol Channing in "Hello, Dolly!," playing the role for two years in Australia and New Zealand. She also has the distinction of being the only actress to have played the title role in major productions of "Auntie Mame" and the musical version, "Mame." She co-starred in the Los Angeles and national companies of Oliver Hailey's "Father's Day," for which she received a Los Angeles Drama Critic's Circle nomination as Best Actress. She later went on to star in the Australian production of that play. She won Best Actress Awards in Los Angeles for George Furth's "The Supporting Cast," Jack Hefner's "Patio/Porch" and James Golman's "The Lion in Winter" directed by David Galligan at the Pasadena Playhouse and co-starring her husband of 37 years, Tom Troupe. In Elliot Martin's highly successful national tour of Robert Harling's "Steel Magnolias," Carole played the irascible "Quiser" for which she received a 1990 Helen Hayes Theatre Award. She has starred in many musicals including "Stop The World, I Want to Get Off," "Annie Get Your Gun," "Kismet," "Anything Goes," "Call Me Madam" and a few seasons ago starred in the New York production of "Radio Gals." She more recently appeared opposite Julie Harris in a hit revival of "Ladies in Retirement." Ms. Cook once again played "Dolly!" in Birmingham, Alabama's SummerFest Celebration and reprised the role in Oklahoma City in October.

Ms. Cook's feature films include: "The Incredible Mr. Limpet," "Palm Springs Weekend," "The Gauntlet," "American Gigolo", "Sixteen Candles," "Fast Money," "Grandview U.S.A.," "Summer Lovers," "Lost & Found" and she is the voice of Pearl in the animated Disney film, "Sweating Bullets." On television, Carole was Donna La Mar in "Cagney & Lacy," Cora in "Dynasty," a regular on the "Merv Griffin Show" and has guest starred on most major television series. She has toured extensively in her highly acclaimed one-woman show, "Dress Up." Lucille Ball who put her under contract to Desilu and changed her name from Mildred Frances to Carole, after Lucy’s friend, Carole Lombard, brought Carole to Hollywood. In 1995, Carole received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Baylor University. For the past 18 years she has been deeply involved in the fight against AIDS starring each of those years in David Galligan's S.T.A.G.E. Benefit in Los Angeles. This is her eleventh appearance in "Help is on the Way." TOP

RAÚL ESPARZA

Raul's Broadway credits include:" Company" (Tony nomination, Drama Desk Award, Outer Critics Circle Award), "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. "The Rocky Horror Show" (Theatre World Award); "Cabaret," "Taboo" (Tony nomination, Drama Desk Award), Off-Broadway: "The Normal Heart," "The Green Violin" (Barrymore Award), "Comedians." "tick, tick…BOOM"! (Obie Award, Drama Desk nomination); National Tour: "Evita" (Joseph jefferson nomination); Regional: "Company" (Cincinnati Playhouse); "Sunday in the Park With George" (Helen Hayes nomination) and "Merrily We Roll Along" (Kennedy Center Sondheim Celebration); "Fur" and "Slaughterhouse 5" (Steppenwolf); "Cry the Beloved Country," "Richard II" and "A Christmas Carol" (Goodman Theatre); "The Washington- Sarajevo Talks" (Victory Gardens); "Arcadia" and "What the Butler Saw" (Meadowbrook Theatre); "Messiah" (National Jewish Theater); "Grease" (Drury Lane Oakbrook); "Mixed Blessings" (Coconut Grove Playhouse). HOLA Jose Ferrer Acting Award. 2006 Sundance Theatre Lab. Film: Sidney Lumet’s "Find Me Guilty." This is Raúl's first appearance in a "Help is on the Way" production. TOP

JASON GRAAE

The "New York Times" recently said that "Nowadays, probably no other performer could infuse (that song) with the manic mischief that Jason Graae, a frisky clown with a real tenor, pumped into it..." His solo show, "Coup de Graae!" won the 2006 New York Nightlife Award, as well as the Bistro Award for Best Major Engagement, and was listed in TimeOut NY's Top 10 Cabaret shows of the year. He has appeared on Broadway in "A Grand Night For Singing," "Falsettos," "Stardust," "Snoopy!" and "Do Black Patent Leather Shoes Really Reflect Up?" Off- Broadway shows include "Hello, Muddah, Hello, Fudduh," for which he was nominated for a Drama Desk Award, "Forever Plaid," Olympus on My Mind," "All in the Timing" and many more.

Jason made his Metropolitan Opera House debut as featured vocalist in Twyla Tharp's "Everlast" with American Ballet Theatre, and in NYC has performed his one-man show at Rainbow and Stars and Birdland, among others.
In Los Angeles, he just won the 2006 L.A. Drama Critics Circle Award. He won an Ovation Award for "Forbidden Broadway Y2KLA!," an Artistic Director's Achievement Award for "Fully Committed" and a Santa Barbara Indie Award for "High Button Shoes." Jason originated the role of "Houdini" in the L.A. production of "Ragtime" at the Shubert Theatre. Other L.A. credits include "Marcellus" in "The Music Man" at the Hollywood Bowl, many shows at Reprise!, and "Grand Hotel" and "The Grand Tour" at The Colony.

On TV, Jason has appeared on dozens of shows including "Six Feet Under," "Rude Awakening," "Friends," "Frasier," "Sabrina the Teenage Witch," "Living Single," and "Caroline in the City," On PBS, he was a guest soloist twice with the Boston Pops ,and once with Marvin Hamlisch and the National Symphony on "Holiday for the Troops at The Kennedy Center."Movies include Disney's "Home on the Range," "On Edge," "Gepetto," and "The Dukes of Hazzard in Hollywood."

He has been heard on many cartoons and for five years he was the voice of "Lucky, the Leprechaun" for Lucky Charms Cereal, a balanced part of your complete breakfast. He made his Los Angeles Opera debut as "Njegus" in "The Merry Widow," repeating the role with Houston Grand Opera and New Orleans Opera.Also with L.A. Opera he was featured as "Offenbach" in "The Grand Duchess," directed by Garry Marshall. He played "Frosch" in "Die Fledermaus with Washington National Opera and recently with San Francisco Opera. This past year he has sung with the American Songbook Series at Jazz at Lincoln Center, the New York Festival of Song, Caramoor Music Festival, The National Symphony at Wolf Trap, Oklahoma City Symphony,and Lyrics and Lyricists at the 92nd Street Y. He has also been touring the country with his one-man show as well as with Jerry Herman in "Hello, Jerry!"

Jason has recorded over forty CDs, including original cast albums, concerts, compilations, and his two solo CDs, "You're Never Fully Dressed without a Smile - Jason Graae sings Charles Strouse," and "Jason Graae LIVE at The Cinegrill"(Fynsworth Alley). This is Jason's first appearance in a "Help is on the Way" production. TOP

MAURICE HINES

Maurice Hines: As Performer - Broadway: "Uptown… its Hot" (Tony Nomination,) National Tour: Jelly Roll Morton in "Jelly's Last Jam," Nathan Detroit in "Guys and Dolls," "Eubie!, Bring Back Birdie" with Chita Rivera and Donald O'Connor, "Sophisticated Ladies," "Harlem Suite." Film: Francis Ford Coppola's "The Cotton Cub." As Director/ Choreographer - Broadway: "Uptown… its Hot," "Hot Feet!" National Tour: "Satchmo," "Harlem Suite," International: "Havana Night" (Cuba), "The Red Shoes" (Dominican Republic.) NY: "the Radio City Spectacular." All of Mr. Hines' performances are dedicated to his mother Alma, and his manager Stanley Kay. This is Mr. Hines first appearance in a "Help is on the Way" production. TOP

PAULETTE IVORY

Paulette Ivory has gone on to be one of London’s most acclaimed singer/ actresses. She has appeared regularly on the West End stage, TV and Film. She played the title role of Aida in Elton John and Disney's "AIDA" on the National US tour to critical acclaim and was also nominated for a Helen Hayes Award for best lead actress. Paulette was recently nominated for a NAACP Award her role as Lutibelle in "Purlie" at the Pasadena Playhouse. She played the female lead Nala in Disney’s "The Lion King" and you may have recently seen this British born actress in a recurring role on “The Young And The Restless” as Vanessa Sheerer. Other screen credits include: "Lords Of Dogtown," Danielle Steele’s "The Ring." West End credits include Brenda in "Smokey Joe’s Café," "Yum Yum in "The Hot Mikado," and "Buddy." This is Paulette’s second venture with director Sheldon Epps which she thrilled about and feels very blessed to be a part of this amazing company. This is Paulette's first appearance in a "Help is on the Way" production.. TOP

LUCY LAWLESS

Born in New Zealand in 1968, Lucy Lawless grew up fifth in a family of seven children. With four older brothers as role models, her mother said she didn’t know she was a girl till she was eight. By this age, she and her best friend were adapting fairytales into plays that they would inflict on any possible audience. Apart from a brief flirtation with the idea of becoming a forensic pathologist, brought on by watching "Quincy, M.D.," acting has always been her passion. As fate would have it, Lucy was the local kid on the spot when an American actress pulled out of the role of "Xena" – at that time just a guest character on "Hercules, the Legendary Journeys," which was filming in her hometown. The character struck a chord with audiences and spun off into her own series. Since then she has played 'Rizzo' in "Grease" on Broadway, hosted "Saturday Night Live," pulverized Callista Flockhart in claymation on "Celebrity Deathmatch," and saved Bart and Lisa on "The Simpsons." Roles on "X-Files" and "Battlestar Galactica" cemented her cult-TV status.

But it was "Celebrity Duets" in October of 2006 that propelled Lucy in a new creative direction. On the final night, when she got to sing a song of her own choice, "Tell Mama!," Lucy recounts that, “…something broke wide open inside me; a lifetime of self-consciousness burst. I have become a junkie for live performance. I can’t get enough and I can’t give enough.” Since then she has performed sold out shows at the famed Roxy in Los Angeles and the Canalroom in New York. “It’s a great way to meet your fans,” she notes.

She is grateful to all her fans including a sizeable gay contingent owing to 'Xena’s’ status as a lesbian icon. As such, she has been a supporter of REAF in San Francisco and The Trevor Project, a national hotline for gay and questioning youth. In Lucy’s own words, “gay teens are three times more likely to commit suicide than their straight peers. It’s a disgrace that in this country we are still shaming kids to death. Shame Kills!”

I n her own country, she is a trustee for the National Children’s Starship Hospital and received an Order of Merit of New Zealand from the Queen for services to the community. Her proudest moment was being part of the push to set up Pua Waitahi multi-agency center against child abuse in Auckland, where social workers, police and medial specialists are under one roof, greatly improving communication and trust between departments devoted to the fight against the abuse of children. Lucy has three children, Daisy, Julius and Judah and has been married to Rob Tapert, her greatest fan, for ten years. She is a sucker for "Seinfeld" and "Court TV." This is Lucy's second appearance in a "Help is on the Way" production. TOP

KIMBERLEY LOCKE

From Gallatin, TN native to TV and music star via the hit series "American Idol," Kimberley Locke quickly rose to fame when she became the second runner-up on season two of the Fox-TV competition. In addition to being featured on two cast albums, landing in third would find the Last-Girl-Standing taking part in the national Idol concert tour. Shortly after the tour ended, Locke released her Curb Records debut album "One Love," which features the #1 Billboard Single Sales hit "8th World Wonder," as well as "Wrong," "Over the Rainbow," and the new single, "I Could," (a top 10 AC smash). "8th World" became a top 10 AC radio and top 20 Pop radio hit, as well as a #1 Dance (Remix) smash. "Wrong" hit the top 40 Pop radio charts as well. Music videos for both tunes, as well as "Coulda Been," have been produced. Locke headlined her own "One Love Live" concert tour in support of the CD. A holiday recording of "Up On The Housetop" was #1 Billboard AC hit for 4 weeks in December 2005.

March 2005 found her on tour for GSN (Game Show Network) hosting contests wherein winners received scholarship funds. GSN/Bank of America's "Get Schooled" toured shopping malls in large US cities through June '05. The cable net aired a documentary hosted by Locke in September '05. Kimberley recorded "A Dream Is a Wish" for the DisneyMania 3 album and appears in the accompanying TV/DVD special as well. Also for Disney, she duets with Peabo Bryson on "Wishes," for a Disney/Make-a-Wish CD (both in-stores).

Signed with Ford Modeling Agency, Kimberley is in her second year as spokes-model for the popular fashion retailer Lane Bryant and is currently seen in the national campaign. She is currently recording her follow-up album to "One Love," which debuted at #16 upon its release. Titled, "Based on a Ture Story" Locke co-write 9 new songs for the project teaming with collaborators who have helmed hits for Whitney Houston, Jesse McCartney, Destiny's Child, Anastasia, Backstreet Boys, Patti LaBelle, and more. The sophomore set includes the first single, "Supawoman," and will be released on Curb Records in summer '06 featuring writers/producers: Denise Rich, Matthew Gerrard, Danielle Brisbois, Mark Feist & Damon Sharpe, and Allan Rich & Jud Friedman. www.kimberleylockeweb.com. This is Kimbereley’s second appearance in a “Help is on the Way” production.

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SARAH LOWE

Sarah is honored and thrilled to get to do what she always dreamed of – dancing with her grandmother, Ruby Keeler! Sarah is the third generation of professionals to go into this business we lovingly call show. She grew up backstage and has known since the age of three that this is where she is most happy. In Las Vegas, she was seen in the opening company of "Mamma Mia" where she performed in the ensemble nightly and covered the role of Sophie. Off-Broadway, she was seen in the "Donkey Show," a disco retelling of "A Midsummer's Night Dream" where she was fortunate enough to have played all the roles. Regional credits include: "Pippin," "Evita," "42nd Street," "Gypsy," and "No, No, Nanette." TV roles include: "General Hospital," "Guiding Light," "All My Children," "Passions," "Sunset Beach," and "Happy Hour." This is her first appearance in a "Help is on the Way" production.
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JON MAHER

Jon is a versatile actor, performer and interpreter who has made a niche for himself within the entertainment industry. Recent theater work includes West Coat premiers of “The Language of Flowers,” “Hot Mikado,” and “ The Actor’s Fund.” Additional theatre credits include “Brush Up Your Shakespeare” performed before the opening of Los Angeles Shakespeare Festival, “Hoboland,” “She Had it Coming,” “The Gay 90’s…” and the West Coast premier of “F.L.O.W.” Jon is frequently referred to as The Sign Language Guy for his interpreted performances in productions such as “Self Defense,” “The Mysteries,” “The Exonorated,” “The Guys” “Spoon River Anthology,” “Master Class,” “Angels in America,” “Death and the Maiden,” “By Jeeves,” LosAngeles Master Chorale, Dream Foundation, S.T.A.G.E., and numerous other events. Film credits include “Baby Sitters Club,” “Carlton’s Death,” “Farce,” “Kiss Me Later,” and “June.” Television credits include “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” “The Pretender,” “The Red Cross Christmas Special,” “Twice Tried,” “The Marilu Show,” The Mo Show,” and “Comedy Tonight.” He is also a past winner of the Great West Comedy Competition. This is Jon’s eleventh appearance in a “Help is on the Way” performance.

JOEY MCINTYRE

Joey McIntyre is a modern throwback to the classic song-and-dance men of show business, a veteran who has starred on Broadway (in "Wicked") and off (Jonathan Larson's "tick, tick, Boom!"), TV (Dancing with the Stars, Boston Public), film (Tony and Tina's Wedding, The Fantasticks), records (selling 35 million as the youngest New Kid on the Block and a hit solo single, "Stay the Same") and the concert stage.

Fittingly, with his fifth solo album, "Talk to Me," McIntyre tackles the great standards- a record he's been waiting to make for a long time. "I've sung these songs my whole life- on stage, in my dad's, at family gatherings- but recording them for posterity is a much different venture,"says McIntyre. "The challenge of making them new somehow was a labor of love, but I think we were able to capture our own unique take on them, trying them on for size and making them fit comfortably."

McIntyre performed two of the songs from the album during the 38-city "Dancing with the Stars—The Tour," a national arena jaunt from San Diego on Dec. 19 through Atlantic City, N.J., on Feb. 11. "It was a great fit for this record- the romance between these great songs and the classic dances. I could not have asked for a better kick-off to this album. Performing for so many people each night and seeing them respond so well to the music is a real gift!" The new CD sold 10,000 copies in eight weeks on the tour.

McIntyre continued his songwriting, using his own money to record a solo single, "Stay the Same," which became a national hit when it was picked up by some local DJs. The "Stay the Same" album, eventually released by Sony's Columbia Records, went on to sell a million copies around the world. It was followed by the solo efforts "Meet Joe Mac" on Q/Atlantic Records in 2001, "One Too Many," a live album featuring Joey and Emanuel Kiriakou on Bacouris/ New Line Records in 2002 and 8:09 on Artemis Records in 2004.

In 2004, he took on the male lead of Fiyero opposite Tony winner Idina Menzel in the smash Broadway musical, "Wicked." He also appeared on the very first season of the hit ABC show, "Dancing with the Stars," a decision he was skeptical about at first, but later was glad he did. "I always wanted to study dance and the show was like going to school. I really learned ballroom dancing and I knew I'd be able to perform before millions of people. I just didn't know it would be 20 million. But musical theatre was in my blood. I've done "Music Man," "The Sound of Music," "Oliver!," and to me this was a lot like that. Performing live is such a special experience. The connection I have to the audience is what its all about for me."

McIntyre takes that same crowd-pleasing sensibility onto his new album. "Success for me is being able to bring out the greatness of these songs for the listener," he explains. "If I can allow the song to speak for itself, that's an accomplishment. You don't want any artificial feeling when you sing this stuff. It has to be true. These songs are hallowed ground." The next step is getting out there and singing these songs for an audience, something McIntyre has enjoyed doing for most of his life. "The album means a great deal to me. I'm in this for the long run," he explains. "I've been around this business awhile. It been a great ride so far and I've been able to do the things I love, no matter the ups and downs. Like my father would say, ‘Keep on punching.'" On "Talk to Me," he leads with a firm right hand straight to your heart, launching the next round of his career as a 21st century song and dance man. This is Joey's second appearance in a "Help is on the Way" production.
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FREDA PAYNE

Ms. Payne is an accomplished and internationally acclaimed chanteuse whose musical tastes span a range from Miles Davis to Motown. Her multi-faceted career spans over 4 decades and includes Broadway, concerts, TV and movies. Freda started her career by singing radio commercial jingles in her hometown of Detroit, Michigan. This quickly caught the attention of music executives and other artists. At the age of 17, the legendary Pearl Bailey gave Freda her first professional job, which paved the way for her to share the stage with other legends such as Lionel Hampton, Sammy Davis, Jr., Billy Eckstein, Quincy Jones, Bill Cosby, George Burns, Bob Hope and many others. The young protégé of Quincy Jones during his big band era, Freda toured with him, performing at theatres that included the world famous Apollo in New York City and the Regal in Chicago. Her recording successes include her gold record singles “Band of Gold” and “Bring the Boys Home”. Other singles include “Deeper and Deeper”, “Cherish (What’s Dear To You)”, “You Brought the Joy” and several albums. Additionally, Freda has starred in the Broadway production of Duke Ellington’s "Sophisticated Ladies," "Ain’t Misbehavin," "Jelly’s Last Jam" and the Tony Award™ winning production of "Hallelujah Baby." Freda portrayed the great Ella Fitzgerald in the production "Ella Fitzgerald: The First Lady of Song," and is currently enjoying great success touring the country in her solo production of "Freda Payne: A Tribute to Ella Fitzgerald." This is Freda's first appearance in a "Help is on the Way" production.
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VALARIE PETTIFORD

Radiant, Queens-born triple-threat Valarie Pettiford has illuminated stage, screen and television. She was principal dancer under the legendary Bob Fosse in his final productions “Dancin'” and “Big Deal,” the latter of which she was also dance captain. She was later Tony-nominated and Outer Critics Award-nominated for her starring role in the retrospective “Fosse”. Her Broadway/touring resume sparkles with highlights such as “Sophisticated Ladies,” “Chicago” (London West End), “West Side Story” and “Grind.” In movies, she’s shined in Francis Ford Coppola’s “The Cotton Club,” “Like Mike” and a thunder-stealing turn in “Glitter” playing Mariah Carey's jazz singer mom. She has just wrapped work on the new feature film “Step Show.” On television she has enjoyed a multitude of credits, including the daytime drama “One Life To Live”, the hit sitcom “Frasier”, the acclaimed dramatic series’ “The West Wing,” “The District” and “CSI:Miami”, as well as her current prime time residency on UPN’s “Half & Half” playing "Big Dee Dee Thorne,” for which she is a three time NAACP Image Award nominee.

Ms. Pettiford earned NAACP, Vancouver Readers Sun Award, and Roby Award honors for her portrayal of “Julie” in “Showboat”. She regularly graces venues from the Kennedy Center to the Geffen Playhouse, Actors Theater of Louisville and Yale Repertory. Ms. Pettiford also lends her talents to any number of charitable benefit performances. Now a Los Angeles resident, she was a marvel of versatility in her one-woman show, “Finding My Voice”, at Pepperdine University. She just won rave reviews as “Queenie” in the West Coast premiere of “Wild Party.” Ms. Pettiford can also be seen performing two one-woman shows this summer, June 9th and 10th at the Gardenia Theatre, and July 8th at the historic El Portal.

Ms. Pettiford’s latest endeavor is her stunning debut CD, “Hear My Soul,” filled with some of the finest compositions of all-time. It’s an overview not only of the distinguished alto’s career, but also her life. Valarie’s most telling asset is her verve for fresh opportunities. So much so, that one accustomed to seeing her excel in one medium would be positively floored to discover what she has also achieved (and is still achieving) in another. This is Valarie’s third appearance in a “Help is on the Way” production. TOP

JAI RODRIGUEZ

Jai Rodriguez is a talented actor, singer and dancer who starred as Zanna in the off-Broadway musical hit “Zanna , Don’t!” Jai joined “Zanna, Don’t!” after a long-running turn on Broadway starring as Angel in Jonathan Larson’s Tony Award-winning musical “Rent.” Jai’s other theater credits include “Spinning Into Butter” at Lincoln Center Theatre, “Sad Hotel” at the White Barn Theatre, and “Rent” in Canada. On “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy,” Jai used all aspects of his professional training and skills as a performer plus his social charisma to coach straight subjects on everything from how to mix ‘n mingle in a social setting, to conversation skills and even being at ease on the dance floor.

Jai also appeared in the movie "The Producers" as Sabu the Houseboy and "The New Guy" as Jose, the drag queen prisoner. While on hiatus from "Queer Eye" Jai appeared on Broadway as Carmen Ghia in "The Producers." Jai started his singing career performing with his local charge choir at Smithtown Gospel Tabernacle. In 2006, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue his music career and was among the top finalists in the TV hit series "Celebrity Duets." This is Jai's first appearance in a "Help is on the Way" production.

ANDREW SAMONSKY

Andrew Samonsky is honored to be a part of such an incredible event for this wonderful organization. Recently, Andrew was in Los Angeles performing in the Actor's Fund and STAGE benefit concerts. Before that, he played the role of Jonathon to rave reviews in the Los Angeles premier of "tic...tic...Boom!" at the Coronet Theater. He was James in "Shenandoah" starring Scott Bakula at the The Ford's Theatre. He originated the role of Nick in the national tour of Disney's "On The Record." Favorite regional credits include: "Smokey Joe's Café" (Mason Street Warehouse), "Forever Plaid," "Once Upon a Mattress," "Into the Woods," "Sara Plain and Tall," and "Captain Gravy's Wavy Navy". Andrew received an MFA in Acting from UC, Irvine. He currently resides in New York City. Happy Birthday, Dad! This is Andrew's first appearance in a "Help is on the Way" production. TOP

BRUCE VILANCH

Bruce Vilanch is a two-faced fella: Bearded, he is one of the most sought-after comedy writers in Hollywood, winner of a bunch of Emmys and noted as the “Hollywood Square” just to the left of Whoopi. Shaved, he spent two years as Edna Turnblad, Baltimore housewife and superstar, on tour and on Broadway in the smash musical adaptation of the John Waters film “Hairspray.”

Most recently, Bruce was seen on VH1’s popular fitness and nutrition reality-series, “Celebrity Fit Club,” which finished its third season. Participating in a type of extreme-makeover-body-edition, the Celebrity Fit Clubbers went through 100 days of Fit Club training. Along the way, they learned about fitness, diets and nutrition.

Who knows what Bruce will look like for his next performance? In addition to “Hairspray,” he has appeared in such legendary epics as “Ice Pirates,” “Mahogany” and “The Morning After.” A frequent guest on talk shows, Bruce won his Emmys for co-writing back-to-back Oscar shows with Billy Crystal. He’s written 16 Oscar-casts so far, as well as a number of Tonys, Grammys, and even Emmys, although he never got an Emmy for writing an Emmy – that would be award-show incest of the lowest order. His bizarre career was documented in the film “Get Bruce!,” released by Miramax and perpetually available on Buena Vista Home Video.

Bruce’s one-man show, “Almost Famous,” tickled Off-Broadway audiences for three months and has made a number of appearances around the country. He is frequently mistaken for Brad Pitt. This is Bruce’s fifth appearance in a “Help is on the Way” production. . TOP

Paula West has been thrilling national and international audiences with her heartfelt renditions of well-known standards and unique interpretations of dynamic jazz songs. With a particular dusky soulfulness, West has captured the hearts of critics and audiences alike from coast to coast. Known and respected for her creative and distinct repertoire, West adds her own depth and drama to whichever song she chooses for the moment, creating whole new frameworks of meaning for American favorites.

Born into a Marine Corps family, Paula West grew up in San Diego. "My parents didn't have a lot of jazz records. My father liked to listen to classical music. Moving to San Francisco, she attended singing classes and jam sessions. Drawn to songs with interesting harmonics and literate lyrics, West always keeps two things in mind - communication with the audience and an intelligent approach to lyrics.

Paula has performed to sell-out houses annually at The Empire Plush Room in San Francisco and at The Oak Room in New York's Algonquin Hotel, increasing her exposure via films, radio broadcasts and performances in France, Italy and Switzerland. West has also sung at major jazz festivals and has shared the bill with numerous jazz luminaries including Rosemary Clooney, Stacey Kent, Mose Allison, Freddy Cole, Jimmy Scott, Oscar Brown Jr., Rita Rudner, Mavis Staples and Dave Frishberg.

Paula’s recent appearances include Birdland, The Blue Note, Jazz at Lincoln Center, (NYC) Sculler’s (Boston), Jazz Aspen and a performance at The White House in a salute to American writers. Steven Holden of The NY Times comments: “…Ms. West has blossomed into a savvy and blues interpreter and is as persuasive an illustration as I’ve seen that an inspired collaboration between singer and musicians can charge a career and send it hurtling in the right direction.” Paula has worked with such jazz greats as Bobby Hutcherson, Bill Charlap, Frank Weiss, Mulgrew Miller, Peter Washington, Eric Reed, Victor Lewis, Bruce Barth and Regina Carter. Paula’s next NYC gig is at the Algonquin beginning on Oct. 24, 2006.

Critically acclaimed CDs include “Temptation”, “Restless” and “Come What May”, which received the California Music Award for Outstanding Jazz Album, as well as guest appearances on Eric Reed’s “Max Jazz Christmas” CD, “Merry Magic,” and Frank Mantooth’s final project, “Ladies Sing for Lovers,” featuring Karrin Allyson, Ann Hampton Callaway, Sheila Jordan and Oleta Adams.

West has been featured on numerous television programs including A&E’s “Breakfast with The Arts” and also on The Oxygen Network. Her film appearances include Chris Columbus’ “Bicentennial Man” starring Robin Williams and The Lynn Hershman film “Teknolust” starring Tilda Swinton. This is Paula’s eighth appearance in a “Help is on the Way” production. TOP

MARISSA JARET WINOKUR

Marissa Jaret Winokur is happy to be back in LA after a whirlwind run as 'Tracy Turnblad' in the hit Broadway musical "Hairspray," where she won a Tony Award, Drama Desk Award and an Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Actress. Winokur was recently seen co-starring with Drew Barrymore and Jimmy Fallon in the Farrelly Brothers film "Fever Pitch" from Fox 2000, and last year co-starred on the hit comedy “Stacked” with Pamela Anderson on FOX. She just finished filming the series lead in Greg Garcia’s new pilot, "The Stumps Of Hollywood," for 20th Century Fox and CBS.

A native of New York, Marissa started her career on the stage, appearing as 'Jan' in the Broadway production of "Grease." After moving to Los Angeles, Marissa quickly landed roles in the features "Teaching Mrs. Tingle" and "Never Been Kissed." These were followed by her memorable roles in "Scary Movie" and "American Beauty," where she immortalized the phrase “You are so busted.” In television, she starred alongside Fran Drescher and Mark Consuelos in the ABC Family Channel romantic comedy "Beautiful Girl." Winokur also Executive Produced the film, which was ABC Family's highest rated original movie of the year. Marissa has recurred on "Dharma and Greg" and "Moesha," and her guest starring roles include "Curb Your Enthusiasm," "Jack and Bobby," "Just Shoot Me," "Felicity," and "Get Real."
She is currently recording a children’s music album with New Line records. Her rendition of "Baby Face" can be heard on the "Son Of The Mask" soundtrack, which is in stores now. This is Marissa's first appearance in a "Help is on the Way" production. TOP

CAROL WOODS

Carol is known to audiences around the world for her stage, film, television, concert and nightclub appearances. For her critically acclaimed performance in the long running London production of "Blues In The Night," she was nominated for an Olivier Award. Broadway credits include: "Chicago," "One Mo Time,"" Follies," "Smokey Joe’s Café," "Stepping Out," "The Goodbye Girl." "Grind" and "Big River." A founding member of The National Actor’s Theatre, Carol appeared in: "The Crucible" and "A Little Hotel On The Side." Off Broadway: "One Mo’ Time," "Taking My Turn," and "First Lady Suite." 1st National Tours: "The Full Monty" and "Chicago." Abroad Carol starred in the London productions of "One Mo’ Time" and "Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom" at the Royal National Theatre. Film and television credits: Julie Taymor’s "Across The Universe," Paramount Pictures "The Honeymooners," Woody Allen’s "Sweet and Lowdown," "Eddie Murphy Raw," "Night And The City", "Stepping Out" and "Copland ." Television: "The Practice," “Third Watch”," Law & Order" and "The Parent Hood" (Series Regular). Carol made her solo Carnegie Hall 2000 debut at Weill Recital Hall – "An Evening With Carol Woods." Other New York appearances: The Village Gate, B.Smith’s, Rainbow & Stars and Michael’s Pub. This is Carol's first appearance in a "Help is on the Way" production.

BD WONG

Born and raised in San Francisco, California, BD Wong is the only actor ever to have received all five major New York Theater awards for a single role. For his performance in “M. Butterfly,” his Broadway debut, he received the Drama Desk Award, the Outer Critics Circle Award, the Theater World Award, the Clarence Derwent Award, and the Tony Award.

BD is in his eighth season on the top-rated series "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" where he appears as Dr. George Huang, a forensic psychiatrist and expert on the criminal mind. Wong gained notice as a cast regular on HBO’s critically acclaimed series "Oz", playing the resilient prison priest Father Ray for the show’s five-season run. His other television credits include a starring role in ABC’s "All-American Gir"l and HBO’s telefilm "And the Band Played On," as well as guest-starring roles on "Welcome to New York," "Chicago Hope," "The X-Files," "Bless This Hous"e and "Shannon’s Deal." He will soon been seen in the Hallmark Mini Series, "MARCO POLO."

Wong has also appeared in more than 20 feature films, including" Jurassic Park," "The Freshman," 'Father of the Bride" (1 & 2)," Seven Years in Tibet," "Executive Decision," "The Salton Se"a and "Stay." Wong can also be heard as the voice of Shang in the Disney animated films "Mulan" and "Mulan II."

Wong’s additional New York theater credits include “The Tempest,” “A Language of Their Own,” “As Thousands Cheer,” and the Broadway musical revival of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” in a critically acclaimed performance as Linus and the Roundabout Theatre’s production of Stephen Sondheim’s “Pacific Overtures,” for which he received a Drama League nomination for distinguished performance.

BD published his first book, Following Foo: the electronic adventures of the Chestnut Man (Harper Entertainment), which chronicles his son Jackson’s struggle for life after he was born 11 weeks premature. BD currently resides in New York City. This is his first appearance in a "Help is on the Way" production.TOP

STARS OF "JERSEY BOYS"

JARROD SPECTOR (Frankie Valli)
Having attended Princeton University and trained at the Atlantic Theatre Conservatory, Jarrod is thrilled to have finally surpassed the success he enjoyed as a six-year-old boy on "Star Search" and honored to be a member of his second phenomenal "Jersey Boys" company. Theatre credits include: Broadway; "Les Misables" (Gavroche); national tours; "Jersey Boys (Frankie Valli), "Les Miz," and "Twist (Pistol); Off-Broadway: "Hamlet" (Hamlet), "Our Country's Good" (Sideway), and "The Viy" (Gorobets).

DREW GEHLING (Bob Gaudio)
Drew is thrilled to be a part of the amazing "Jersey Boys" cast. Past credits include shows and workshops Off-Broadway, at the Paper Mill Playhouse, the Roundabout Theatre Company, the Utah Shakespearean Festival, and a residence at Dartmouth with the New York Theatre Workshop. Favorites include: "The Flamingo Kid" (workshop), "Moby Dick" (NYTW), "Hello, Dolly!" (Paper Mill), "Candide," "Assassins," "Myths and Hymns," "Rickard III," "The Duchess of Malfi," and "Nightingale" (a new musical by Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater). Film: "Blinders" (starring Jamie-Lynn Sigler) and "bully" (Rockstar Games). He is a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University.

JEREMY KUSHNIER (Tommy DeVito)
Jeremy is very excited to be a member of the "Jersey Boys" family. As a singer/songwriter, he has released two independent CDs which are available on his website at www.jeremykushnier.com. Broadway credits include: originated the role of Ren in "Footloose" (Helen Hayes Award and Outer Critics Award Nominee), "Rent." Tours: "Rent," "Aida," and "The Who's Tommy." Regional: "Jesus Christ Superstar," "The Full Monty," "Bright Lights, Big City," and "The Rhythm Club." In film he appeared in "The Adulterer" and television credits include "FX," and John Woo's "Once a Thief."

MICHAEL INGERSOLL (Nick Massi)
Michael is proud to make his National Tour debut with he extraordinary team of "Jersey Boys." He hails from Chicago where credits include "tick, tick, 'Boom!" (Jonathan Larson) and "I Love You, You're Perfect Now Change." Regional credits include "Of Mice and Men" (George), "Floyd Collins" (Floyd Collins), "Bat Boy: The Musical" (Bat Boy), Disney's "Beauty and the Beast" (Lumiere), "Picnic" (Hal), "The Wizard of Oz" (Tin Man), and "Shakespeare's R&J" (Juliet) at Playhouse on the Square. He also appeared in the film "Walk the Line."

MICHALE ORLAND , Musical Director

Michael is currently the Pianist, Arranger and Associate Musical Director for the hit FOX-TV series AMERICAN IDOL. Through this amazing opportunity, Michael has appeared on OPRAH, ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT, and THE WAYNE BRADY SHOW, and has collaborated with music industry giants such as Burt Bacharach, Neil Sedaka, and Diane Warren, to mention just a few. He also served in the same capacity for the successful summer series AMERICAN JUNIORS and has Associate Produced two hit singles (GOD BLESS THE U.S.A. and WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS NOW IS LOVE) for AMERICAN IDOL as well as the hit compilation CD from AMERICAN JUNIORS.

Michael began his impressive musical career in his hometown of Worcester, Massachusetts at the tender age of three, when he escorted each member of his family, one by one, to see ìMARY POPPINSî and then sat down at the piano and played the songs by ear. Since this auspicious beginning, he has become one of the most acclaimed musical directors on the concert and nightclub scene.

In addition to playing and conducting for many celebrities including Lucie Arnaz, Kaye Ballard, Deborah Gibson, Shecky Greene, Jennifer Holliday, Lainie Kazan, Sally Kellerman, Gladys Knight, Barry Manilow, Chita Rivera, and the late Nell Carter and Wayland Flowers & Madame, Michael played for the hit shows ìFORBIDDEN BROADWAYî, ìRUTHLESS!î, and ìWHEN PIGS FLYî in Los Angeles. He made his Hollywood Bowl debut accompanying the legendary MGM star Ann Miller.

Prior to AMERICAN IDOL, television appearances have included The Rosie OíDonnell Show, Leeza, The Maury Povich Show, and Geraldo. He also appeared on the hit sitcom ìTHE NANNYî performing an original song. Look for an upcoming appearance on the UPN sitcom ìHALF & HALFî where Michael not only performs an original song, but also nails a line of dialogue with the perfect comic timing he has acquired from sitting through years of nightclub acts.

An accomplished songwriter, his songs have been featured on several daytime soaps and primetime shows. On recordings, he can be heard on Debbie Gravitteís ìAlan Menken Albumî and ìMGM Albumî; Rita McKenzieís ìEthel Mermanís Broadwayî, ìRuthless! The Musicalî, and produced and arranged Roslyn Kindís ìCome What Mayî. Michael is currently working on a solo piano album due out soon. Please visit Michael's web site periodically for news updates and upcoming events.. This is his first musical direction of "Help is on the Way." TOP

For the past 23 years he has directed and co-produced the annual S.T.A.G.E. fundraisers for AIDS charities, saluting the theatre music of noted composers and lyricists. He has co-produced recordings of nine of the events: "Strouse, Schwartz and Schwartz," "Dream, the Lyrics and Music of Johnny Mercer," "Jerome Kern: Life Upon the Wicked S.T.A.G.E."; "Harold Arlen, Over the Rainbow;" "George & Ira Gershwin: A Musical Celebration;" "ABC Adler, Bock & Coleman;" and "Stephen Sondheim: A Celebration." He has also helmed all of the S.T.A.G.E. Too benefits for The Actors’ Fund of America - "Kurt Weill: The Centennial," "Tap Your Troubles Away: The Words and Music of Jerry Herman," "The Richard Rodgers Centennial-Something Wonderful," "Sing Happy, The Words and Music of Kander and Ebb," "The Best is Yet to Come- The Music of Cy Coleman," "Hooray For Love- A Celebration of the Music of Harold Arlen" and most recently "Everything’s Coming Up Roses: The Jule Styne Centennial." Galligan co-produced the Actors’ Fund recordings "Tap Your Troubles Away: The Words and Music of Jerry Herman" and "Kurt Weill: The Centennial" as well as Dale Kristien’s first solo recording – "Beauty of Broadway" and Pamela Myers’ debut CD "The Chance to Sing." For The Center Theatre Group he directed "Loesser is More" at The Doolittle Theatre and "An Evening With Noel Coward" as well as Lansford Wilson’s "A Poster of the Cosmos" with Brian Kerwin paired with The Los Angeles cast of "The Phantom of The Opera" performing Leonard Bernstein at the Taper. Among his other recent credits, the original musical "Vampire Virgins from Venus" and the writing and staging of Valarie Pettiford’s new one woman show "Finding My Voice." He stage directed the Ford Motor Company’s special "Heroes for the Planet" starring Charlotte Church and Haley Joel Osment that aired on the A&E network. He also staged "IMPACT at Ford Field," the opening extravaganza of the new Detroit Lion’s Stadium, starring Gladys Knight. David Galligan, a native San Franciscan, began his career at the famed Opera Ring under the guidance of Irma Kay to whom he owes an eternal debt of gratitude. He is the recipient of the Los Angeles Stage Alliance’s Ovation Career Achievement Award for 2005. David has staged ten "Help is on the Way" and all eight "Help is on the Way for the Holidays" productions.. TOP