*** The videotaping or other video or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited.***

DIRECTORS’ NOTES

Eric Jensen’s Director’s Notes:

The Scarlet Pimpernel has been a favorite story of mine ever since I was a child. I love the swashbuckling heroism of Percy Blakeney and his British mates as they would rescue the would-be executed aristocrats from the French revolutionaries. But why was it one of my favorites? Was it the fact that the Scarlet Pimpernel was the persona adopted by the wealthy Lord Blakeney? Was it the fact that Percy put on the antic disposition of a dandy so as not to arouse suspicion? Was it a mixture of all these things ? Well it seems that the Scarlet Pimpernel is the inspiration for every superhero story I ever watched and loved as a child. Peter Parker (Spider-Man), Clark Kent (Superman), Tony Stark (Iron Man), and scores of others seem to have their origin that echoes the first character who could be called a superhero… the Scarlet Pimpernel. Originally written as a novel by Baroness Emmuska Orczy, this foppish 18th-century Englishman would zip across the English Channel to save French aristocrats from the guillotine. I loved it, and I hope you will too. As you watch tonight‘s performance, see if you don’t find a common thread of the Marvel and DC heroes that are common in cinema today. I hope you come to realize, like I have, that the Scarlet Pimpernel seems to be the first legitimate superhero that started them all.

I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Chris Kennedy, a very talented director and actor, who is another lover of the Scarlet Pimpernel. The cast has amazed me and made me laugh hard during rehearsals. We have such talented people willing to share their talents and interpretations of these outlandish characters. They bring them to life, and my idea of a fantastic story comes to life! I hope you enjoy this talented cast and crew! I  appreciate the arts in our community and hope you have an enjoyable evening laughing with your friends and family! Love to my wife and son for their support in bringing this show to fruition.

Eric. R. Jensen has extensive experience as a writer, actor, and director.  His plays have been performed at other theaters, and he has done rewrites for many. His passion is all things comedy, and he takes any opportunity to make people laugh. Thank you to his wife, Sandy, their son, Austinn, and to the board of trustees of the Off Broadway Theatre for all of their love and support in his career.  He couldn’t have done it without them. He hopes this adaptation puts a smile on your faces and that you walk away having a wonderful experience enjoying the talent of the cast and show!

Chris Kennedy’s Director’s Notes:

The story of the Scarlet Pimpernel is a classic tale dear to my heart. Ever since reading the book, the tale of bravery, loyalty, and romance was captivating and inspires not only the imagination, but also the message the story tells. That message of humanity despite differences is a powerful echo through history that resonates even today. That selfless sacrifice to go to the aid of others in need is something that every human being admires and looks up to. This new adaptation captures the essence of that message and adds a flair not found anywhere else. Wit, cleverness, and humor abound amongst the backdrop of the first French revolution. Working with the renowned Eric Jensen to bring to life that story through his creative and masterful comedy mind has been a treat. This wonderful theater creates not only great stories, but wonderful opportunities for learning, growth, and friendship. There is no other like it, and I’m honored to be able to contribute in any way to their mission as well as work with this amazing production team and cast. This show will inspire, uplift, and have you laughing throughout it. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to heartily laugh along with the Scarlet Pimpernel! 

Chris Kennedy is glad to be back in this fun retelling of a classic hero tale. He was last seen directing It’s a Wonderful Life here on the OBT stage. Previous shows here include Robyn Hood, Charlie’s Aunt, and Star Ward. Other favorite shows include Scarlet Pimpernel, Joseph, and Daddy Long Legs. He thanks his family, friends, and all of you for your support. Enjoy the show!

CAST BIOS

Brett Andersen as Percy Blakeney

Brett is excited to be back with OBT. You may have seen him in Dracula vs. the Hunchback and recently in SpongeBob the Musical. He is so grateful for the opportunity to perform with this cast and in particular, his wife. He hopes that you are able to sit back, relax and enjoy some laughs even if it is just at him and not with him.

Kimberly Andersen as Marguerite LaCroix

Kim is a huge fan of the OBT and is so excited to be part of this awesome company that brings joy and laughter to people’s lives. Kim gets to play the love interest to her real-life husband! Scarlet Pimpernel is one of her favorite shows, and she could not be more excited to be a part of it!! Kim quotes Elle Woods, who spoke these wise words: “I once had to judge a tighty-whitey contest for Lambda Kappa Pi. Trust me, I can handle anything.”

Jessica Andrews as Genevieve LaCroix/Nun

Jessica is so excited to be doing another show with the OBT. She was most recently seen in Seussical the Musical and The Drowsy Chaperone. She has learned so much from the theater and has improved her skills with every show. She has always loved singing and making people laugh. She was involved in several music programs at the University of Utah while pursuing her degree in Civil Engineering. Her hobbies include karaoke and fire dancing. She has performed at Sandy Amphitheater, Prohibition, and Millcreek Theater.

Emily Dahl as Miss Robbins

This is Emily’s first performance with OBT, and she is super excited to be a part of this incredible show! Emily has been a theater gal for years and has been in shows all over Utah County, including Joseph, Annie, and Seussical. Emily is currently in the U’s Institute choir for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She is also a creator and voice actress in her own Spotify podcast, “Disney’s The Owl House Season 4 and 5.” Emily is hoping to one day become a voiceover actress and singer. She thanks her family and nieces for claiming she’s “the Cool Aunt” in the family!

Mary Diehl as Guard DuMasse 

It all started when her parents started dating while in a play together, playing an engaged couple. Six weeks later, they were married! And five kids later, Mary was born. Mary played a peddler in Three Little Pigs in kindergarten, and in high school she played in the ensemble of Camelot. Mary was hooked, so 17 years later she decided to audition with the OBT, making this her debut show! Thanks to all my wonderful supporters, I couldn’t have performed as well without you.

Christie Foster as Alfreda Houseman 

Christie is ecstatic to debut in her first OBT show, rekindling her lifelong passion for performing. Recently, she was delighted (and horrified! If you know, you know) audiences as Queen Aggravain in Once Upon a Mattress. Her versatile talent shines through roles like the Duchess in Alice in Wonderland: The Rock Musical and Mrs. Phelps in Matilda. Off stage, Christie treasures quality time with her husband and their three wonderful children.

Adam Frary as Hal Dithers 

No, you aren’t seeing double. This is the second time Adam has been in The Scarlet Pimpernel recently. The first experience was so lovely that he decided that performing in the OBT version would be très magnifique. Adam was trained in the art of singing by church choirs, and by trying to sing louder than his nine siblings. Last year, he turned his love for singing into a love for performing and here we are.

Monte Garcia as Elton Whitmore 

Monte is delighted to perform at the OBT again. He was in last season’s Robin Hood as Sheik Hugh Booté and has previously been in several OBT shows including Star Ward, Greece is the Word, and Pirates of the Carabeener. Some favorite roles he has performed elsewhere are Bernardo in West Side Story, Beast in Beauty and the Beast, Chauvelin in Scarlet Pimpernel, Radames in Aida, Pseudolus in Forum, and most recently as Adolpho in The Drowsy Chaperone. He lives in Sandy with his lovely and ever-supportive wife. “Thanks for being my person, Jen!”

Kimberly Hampton as Guard Bowen  

Kimberly may work in an office during the day, but she’s swapping her desk chair for a rapier and gun, performing as Bowen, a guard with an identity crisis on the streets of Paris. She’s excited to be a part of the Off Broadway Theatre production of Scarlet Pimpernel: An Adaptation by Eric R. Jensen, and she invites you to laugh along with her as she makes her community theater debut.

Austinn Jensen as Dewhurst Tippler (Understudy)

There’s so much to observe when you get an understudy with amazing looks, sharp wit, and timing so precise that if jokes were darts, they would hit the bullseye every time. OBT could find no such person, so they called Austinn instead. He was last seen acting in Three Penny Theatre’s Power Plays and assistant directing in Lore of The Rings earlier this season. Some of his favorite roles include the dentist in Little Shop of Horrors, Hamlet in Hamleton, Babs in Eric Jensen’s Charlie’s Aunt, and Captain Crook in Peta Pun. If you happen to be at a performance where he’s filling in as Dewhurst, he apologizes for any inconvenient laughs, as there may be many added to your viewing experience.

Anna Kennedy (Musical Director) as Miss Grayson 

Anna is thrilled to be back on the OBT stage! You may remember her from the fan favorite: It’s a Wondrous Life. She has been acting for years, but singing for two more years than she has acted. She would like to thank her brother for the “nepotistic opportunity” to work on this show, but she’s more talented than he is, so… She’d also like to thank her family (both blood and OBT) for their undying support. Congrats on reading this whole blurb!

Chuck MacDermott as Ozzy Manwell 

This is Chuck’s debut with the Off Broadway Theatre! His love for the theater dates back to his younger years, but after taking a hiatus from theater he has returned to the stage. He is excited to be working with Off Broadway Theatre in Scarlet Pimpernel: An Adaptation by Eric R. Jensen. Some of his favorite roles have been Old Joe in A Christmas Carol, Mr. Mushnik in Little Shop of Horrors, Samuel in Pirates of Penzance, and Bill Sykes in Oliver!

Scott Macdonald as Commander Chauvelin

Scott believes that theater embiggens the soul of the smallest man. He is excited to be playing mean old Chauvelin in this production with such an amazing and talented cast. In the past Scott has played multitudinous roles, from maniacal bad guys to endearing hobos to dashing heroes. When not theater-ing, Scott likes to bike, ski, big-wheel, and talk in the third person, and is grateful for the support of his son, Jonas, his girlfriend, Jill, and his friends and family.

Jeffrey North as Dewhurst Tippler & understudying as Commander Chauvelin

Jeff is thrilled to be returning to the OBT stage as Dewhurst!! Jeff has really enjoyed this character and acting foppish with the other bounders! Jeff was most recently on the OBT stage as Jed Bridger in Utahoma! Jeff has been in other OBT shows, such as Grouch in How the Grouch Stole Christmas, Raul in Phantom of the OBT, and Barky the Werewolf in Forever Dead. Jeff is most excited to be doing a show with his amazing wife again! Enjoy!!

Nikki North as Citizen Robespierre

Nikki’s been performing for many years and loves (almost) every moment of it! You may have seen her with OBT as Janet in The Drowsy Chaperone, Edith in Eric Jensen’s Pirates of Penzance, or Helga/McGonandull/Minerva in Dracula vs. Henry Botter. Other faves include Florence in Curious Savage, and Queen Anne in The Three Musketeers. Nikki is PUMPED to finally play the villain! P.S. Thanks and love to the sexiest fop, Dewhurst!

Emerson Peery as Percy Blakeney 

This is Emersons third show with OBT. You’ve probably seen them in Pirates of Penzance or Eric Jensen’s Charlie’s Aunt, but this time they get to be as extra as possible, and are very excited to be in this production! Emerson aspires to be a voice actor and comedian, and while you can find their talents online, tonight you get to see them here! Emerson is 26 years old and loves tuna fish sandwiches and playing the piano. We’ve locked away all the pianos because they just….won’t…stop! Anyway, here’s their send-off: “Well, great Neptune’s Nappy, we hope you enjoy this show that is ever so Odds Bodkins!! Sink me!!!”

Wendy Johnson Richhart as Alfreda Houseman

Wendy Johnson Richhart debuts with Off Broadway Theatre as Alfreda the housekeeper (and Robbins the maid for an exclusive two-night engagement). Perhaps she’s been typecast, since she’s been head housekeeper and maid for the past 34 years at her own home? Favorite past roles include Essie in You Can’t Take it With You, Lucrica Otis in The Canterville Ghost, Clairee in Steel Magnolias, and Madame in Cinderella. Offstage, Wendy acts like a real estate agent, yoga & aqua fit instructor, wife, mom, and her favorite role ever: grandma/yaya! She sends love to her family, friends, and especially her grandbabies.

Dan Smuin as Balfour/General Hood/Executioner 

Dan is excited to be back on stage with OBT. He is grateful to be able to perform alongside this amazing cast. Dan fell in love with acting in high school when, one day, he called the junior high school his brother attended, pretending to be their dad, and excused his brother from classes so they could go to lunch. Also, a big thanks to his wife and kids for their never-ending love and support.

Jill Stark as Miss Grayson 

Hey, everyone, it’s your quirky old Jill who has been playing old British ladies since she was 24. It feels closer to reality now. She has been performing since she could talk and has been in various OBT shows and Laughing Stock improv for almost 17 years. She is still educating young minds when she isn’t attempting to make people laugh. She thanks her friends, family, and dogs who support her weird hobbies. Also, thank you to Scott who is her partner in crime in life and on obstacle courses.

Clarence Strohn as Benjamin Dunn 

Clarence has delighted theater fans for more than 35 years as a villain, hero, or insane sidekick. He is honored to be chosen once again to be a part of another OBT first. Clarence is excited to entertain you alongside a great cast and crew! He has a whole tribe of people–some close, some far away–who love, support, and depend on him. He couldn’t be here without their love and support.

Bryn Swain as Amelia LaCroix 

This is Bryn’s debut with the OBT. She is ecstatic to be part of this show! When Bryn isn’t on stage, she teaches elementary theater, where she recently directed Seussical Kids and Frozen Kids. Recent acting credits include Bird Girl in Seussical (Murray City Arts Council), Lady-in-Waiting in Twelve Dancing Princesses (SugarFactory Playhouse), and Ensemble in The Three Musketeers (Parker Theater). Much love and appreciation to her parents, A Sauce, Kyle the Film Major, and Libby on the Label.

CREW BIOS

Stacee Hunsaker – Stage Manager

Stacee Hunsaker is excited to be a part of the Off Broadway Theatre once again. “It’s not that I don’t like humans—it’s just that you’re not a cat and that disappoints me. Stop spraying Lysol and remember, kids: only you can prevent linger longers.” Previous roles include Mimi in Guys & Dolls with Cottonwood Heights, Amy Spettigue in Eric Jensen’s Charlie’s Aunt with the Off Broadway Theatre, and Alabama Lamb in Big Fish with Sandy Arts Guild.

Viveann Godwin –  Sound & Light Tech

Viveann is happy to be back with the OBT family in another fun production after a short break. You may have seen her playing Crocky, Dr. Hamblin, Bride of Frankie, and other fun characters. She hopes you enjoy this production and have a good laugh!

Robbie Dalley – Sound and Light Consultant:

A Primetime Emmy Award winner (yes, it is true!), Robbie has spent the past 20 years working all things tech for various groups, including the Sugar Factory Playhouse. He helped to start the OBT’s inhouse tech program and has continued to help push the boundaries of what is possible for our theater. Always behind the scenes, he is a dad to a great, soon-to-be-10-year-old son (Robbie), two cats (Penelope & Charlie), and a Corgi (Flora). He divides his non-theater time between work and family.

August 2 – August 31

October 4 – October 26

November 1 – November 30

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Bing Fang, trustee and chair
Clarence Strohn, trustee and vice chair
Sandy ThuyAnn Jensen, trustee and secretary
Brett Andersen, trustee
Christopher Cheeney, trustee 
Jeff Driggs, trustee
Ben Eddington, trustee
Monte Garcia, trustee
Jim Morgan, trustee 
Kelly Wideman, trustee

OFFICERS

Eric R. Jensen, Co-Founder / Artistic & Technical Director
Sandy ThuyAnn Jensen, Co-Founder / Executive Director
Bing Fang, Chief Financial Officer
Kevin Hicks, Treasurer
Kelly Wideman, Marketing Director

CONSULTANTS

Aaron Bellis, consultant
Nic Brown, consultant
Austinn Jensen, consultant
Daniel Gillette, consultat

ERIC R. AND SANDY HUBBLE JENSEN’S BIOS

Eric and Sandy are co-founders of the Off Broadway Theatre and Laughing Stock improv comedy troupe. They have worked closely for some 30 years, dedicating much of their time to building and growing the Off Broadway Theatre. They have been married for 30 years and have one son, Austinn, who has grown up acting in numerous OBT and other productions.

Eric, the artistic and technical director for the OBT, grew up in Murray, Utah. He received his bachelor’s degree in theater arts at the University of Utah and his master’s degree in secondary education at the University of Phoenix. As executive producer and lead playwright, director, set designer, costumer, actor, and improviser, he guides many aspiring talents at the OBT. He teaches improv classes while mentoring up-and-coming playwrights, directors, stage managers, and set designers. His acting, writing, and directing experience has also been featured at Desert Star, Centre Point Legacy, Hale (both Orem and West Valley), and Egyptian theaters. He has taught and performed high school workshops and elementary school assemblies, as well as for some after school programs. Eric also teaches K – 6 as a fine arts specialist  in the Davis School District, inspiring children to love theatre, music, dance, and all things art. Under Eric’s leadership, OBT won the Best Community Theatre award from the Utah Theatre Association in 2000, recognizing the quality of the theatre and Eric’s work with high schools and the community.

Sandy serves as the executive director of the theatre, as well as executive producer, box office manager, and social media specialist, with more than 30 years of experience in small business management. She has an extensive acting background, including the OBT, Hale Centre Theatre WVC, The Grand Theatre, Sundance Theatre, Salt Lake Acting Company, Pages Lane, and Stage Right Theater. Sandy continues to work tirelessly to grow volunteer opportunities at the OBT. She was born in Vietnam and has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, with endorsements in ESL, STEM, and Gifted. She teaches 1st grade in the Davis School District. She has earned two Presidential Awards for Volunteering and has been recognized in Who’s Who of America.   

The Off Broadway Theatre has been said to have a feel of “family,” and that’s because it is. Eric and Sandy’s mission has always been to provide a place where people can come together and make laughter ring true and provide a safe place to hone skills and develop friendships. Through the art of live performances, the theatre has reached many new friends, and its charitable outreach program has provided wonderful opportunities to serve our community. 

Eric and Sandy also co-founded Laughing Stock Improv and have performed together on the OBT stage as well as at corporate and  school events. They are proud to have such a long-running improv show with some amazingly talented improvisers who have been with the company for a long time.

Thank you for your many years of support and patronage at the Salt Lake downtown location, and for following us here to Draper. Please continue to donate to help us forge another 25+ years of spreading laughter in Utah! Go to www.theOBT.org to donate today.