IN THE HEIGHTS |
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Lin-Manuel Miranda |
Quiara Alegría Hudes |
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| Conceived by Lin-Manuel Miranda | ||
| Approximate run time: Two hours, 20 min with one 20 min intermission | ||
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Song List
ACT I
"In the Heights" — Usnavi and Company
"Breathe" — Nina and Company
"Benny's Dispatch" — Benny and Nina
"It Won't Be Long Now" — Vanessa, Usnavi, and Sonny
"Inútil" — Kevin
"No Me Diga" — Daniela, Carla, Vanessa, and Nina
"96,000" — Usnavi, Benny, Sonny, Graffiti Pete, Vanessa, Daniela, Carla, and Company
"Paciencia y Fe" — Abuela Claudia and Company
"When You're Home" — Nina, Benny, and Company
"Piragua" — Piragua Guy
"The Club" — Usnavi, Vanessa, Nina, Benny, and Company
"Blackout" — Usnavi, Vanessa, Benny, Nina, Kevin, Sonny, Graffiti Pete, Abuela Claudia, Carla and Company
ACT II
"Sunrise" — Nina, Benny, and Company
"Hundreds of Stories" — Abuela Claudia and Usnavi
"Enough" — Camila
"Carnaval del Barrio" — Daniela, Carla, Vanessa, Usnavi, Sonny, Piragua Guy, and Company
"Atención" — Kevin
"Alabanza" — Usnavi, Nina, and Company
"Everything I Know" — Nina
"No Me Diga (Reprise)" — Carla, Nina, Vanessa, and Daniela
"Piragua (Reprise)" — Piragua Guy
"Champagne" — Vanessa and Usnavi
"When the Sun Goes Down" — Nina and Benny
"Finale" — Usnavi and Company
Cast
Understudies
Creative Team
Director's Notes
About the Authors
Meet the Company
Deonte Allen is a graduate of Santa Monica College and UCLA, born and raised in Los Angeles. Growing up spending most of his free time in sports, he was surprised and excited to discover a new passion for the performing arts with some of his favorite roles including Black (The Wild Party), Banquo (Flamenco Macbeth), Gargoyle (The Hunchback of Notre Dame), Shrek (Shrek) , and Genie (Aladdin). He is so excited to be casted in his 4th show with the Morgan Wixon theater and thrilled to share the stage with his talented barrio familia in In the Heights. No Pare Sigue Sigue!
Adrian is excited to be performing with The Morgan Wixson Theatre in his first production of In The Heights. He has performed regularly with the Gay Men's Chorus of Los Angeles since 2011 and as a backup dancer for pop artists Beth Ditto & Margot Price. Adrian recently performed as Benjamin Coffin III in Rent with Conundrum Theatre Co.
 adrianoayala |
 adrianomarayala |
Samantha (she, her/ella) is finally home In The Heights. She is honored to be a part of this extended familia like no other. Most recently she was seen at the HFF23 in Losing Your Humanity as Michelle. Other recent theatre credits: Deadly (Minnie Williams), Pippin (Leading Player), Daddy’s Dying Who’s Got the Will (Sara Lee), Dangerous Obsession (Sally), Women of 4G (Baston), Wait Until Dark (Susan), Major Barbara (Barbara), Sordid Lives (LaVonda), Twelfth Night (Feste & Olivia), Lend Me a Tenor (Maggie,) Two Gentleman of Verona (Sylvia), Steel Magnolias (Shelby), The Rocky Horror Show (Magenta), Hedwig (Yitzak). On screen you can catch her in the Ceasar and Otto series. Sam was born in Venezuela (prayers), raised in the Sooner state and is part NYer. Samantha received her BFA from Webster Conservatory. Let’s love each other y’all, we need it!! Loves and hugs!! www.samanthabarrios.com
| https://www.twitter.com/TSamanthaB |
| TSamanthaB |
Joyce Blackmon is so honored to be playing the role of Daniela. Her previous credits include Ronnette in Little Shop of Horrors, Yellow Girl in Shout the Mod Musical, and Ensemble in 9 to 5. She is so delighted to be here and would love to thank her family, friends, and her team for all their constant support. Lastly but certainly not the least, thank you Lin-Manuel Miranda for creating this space for actors and for continuing to do so, you brought this whole family of a cast together, no pares sigue sigue !!!
| Lnnylynn |
This is Natalie's first show with the Morgan Wixson Theatre, and she is so excited! Natalie has taken part in many other productions such as "The Addams Family" (Morticia Addams), "Into the Woods" (Cinderella), "Lion King", "The Little Mermaid", "Lord of the Flies" (Sam), "Bring it On" (Campbell Davis), High School Musical, Pippin (Frastrada), "A Midsummer Night's Dream" (Puck), "Juanita's Statue" (Juanita), "Songs for a New World" (Woman 2), "Clue!" (Yvette) and many others! She'd like to give a special shout-out to her Grandfather, George Chavez, who she's truly kept in her heart for the entirety of this show. "Thank you for Everything I Know!"
| nataliemchav |
| nataliemchavez |
MICHAEL DUMAS (Ensemble) could not be more excited to return to the barrio after 7 years! His favorite performances include Robert Martin (The Drowsy Chaperone) with JFED, Newsies (Spot Conlon/Splasher) and West Side Story (Action/Dream Tony) with ARTS, and The Theory of Relativity (Swing) with Foothill Performing Arts Council. Michael would like to thank his family and friends for their incredible love and support. Alza la bandera!
| @michael_dumas |
L.A. born & raised, Eadric has been performing in theaters across the greater Los Angeles area since they were 4 years old ranging from playing a prince (R&H Cinderella) to a pickpocketing g*psy (Hunchback of Notre Dame) and is absolutely treasuring the opportunity to play Sonny alongside such a talented and supportive cast and crew! Not to mention the honor and privilege of being both one of the dance captains as well as one of the cast deputies and prides himself on being able to support others in any way he can. That and his amazing hugs, seriously.
| @eeeadric |
Sebastian Estrada (Ensemble) : Sebastian is very excited to be a part of In The Heights at the Morgan-Wixson Theatre. He has recently been in high school productions of Puffs as J. Finch Fletchley and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee as Leaf Coneybear. Sebastian is still in high school, however plans on going to college and getting a BFA in Musical Theater. He would like to thank his family for always supporting his endeavors and convincing him to audition.
| _seb4stian.e_ |
Bianca is beaming to make her MWT debut and her return to theater. There’s no better way to get back into it than with this show. Not only does it represent a huge part of her beautiful community, it also brings a taste of her east coast roots to the west, which ain’t bad either. Having the opportunity to tell the story of a woman’s journey into a new country and creating a life for herself is an honor and a privilege as it is reminiscent of her own mother’s story. She can not stress enough how much she loves this cast and crew. Once you see the lights go up on that stage, you will too. She has been seen in various ads for companies including Apple, Amazon, AT&T, and Bumble. You can catch her around LA as Mirabel from Encanto. Para mi chimo.
| _ThatsSoBianca |
Julian is ecstatic to be joining Morgan Wixson's Production of In The Heights! Going into his Junior year of College, Julian studies Film and Television at CSU Northridge in hopes to Direct, Produce, and write. He also Most recently made his Music Direction Debut with Lion King Kids at Jaxx Theatricals! Previous Credits include: Rent, The Little Mermaid, The Wild Party, Grease, Chess, West Side story, Little Shop of Horrors, and many more! Thank you to the cast, crew, and production team for creating a truly amazing experience with the show. He hopes the show you enjoy the show as much as he has.
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| julianhennech |
Rubén Gabriel Hernández (He/Him/El) is a creative artist/director/producer/performer who you may have seen working on and off stage in many productions/events throughout the years. His work focuses on the uplifting of diasporic voices and intimate queer stories, often at mythic scales. He is ecstatic to be joining this incredible cast and team and welcomes you with open arms to enjoy, connect, and stay hydrated.
| Mazapanzon |
(she/her/hers/ella) Stephanie is ecstatic to be a part of this production! This show holds a very special place in her heart, and it has always been a dream of hers to be a part of this show. Previous credits include Escape to Margaritaville (Tammy), The Marvelous Wonderettes (Cindy Lou), Almost, Maine (Marge), and In the Heights (Camila). She'd like to thank her mom, dad, Pancho, Ari, and her Amá for all their love and support. She'd also like to thank the cast for all the laughs and the memories. Besos y abrazos- WEPAAAA!
| deaarsteff |
Lauren Josephs is thrilled to be a part of this wonderful cast telling a truly vital story. She is a graduate of UC Irvine and this is her first show with The Morgan-Wixson Theatre! Some of her favorites credits include Bea in Something Rotten, Katherine in Newsies, and Reno Sweeney in Anything Goes. Lauren wants to thank her Heights family for being the most amazing people, and her own family and friends as well for all their constant love and support.
| Lauren_Josephs |
Olivia has a B.A. in English and a minor in Theater Arts from California Lutheran University. Her previous acting credits include Something Rotten (Simi Valley CAC) and 42nd Street (Rose Center Theater). She was last seen in Elf at Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center. She’s grateful to have a chance to celebrate her community and to be uplifted by her cast familia in return. Te quiero todo.
| @livbug_21 |
| @livbug_21 |
Caitlyn is thrilled to be making her Morgan-Wixson debut in a dream show! Stage credits include: Olive in 25th Annual…, Swing in Something Rotten, Charlotte in Elf, Ensemble in Mamma Mia, Caroline in Theory of Relativity, and Ensemble/Dance Captain in Drowsy Chaperone. Outside of theatre, she has been working as a Dialogue Coordinator for Bento Box Animation and looks forward to getting back to recording more shows soon. Caitlyn’s greatest joy and #1 fan is her cat Penelope. All my love to my theatre fam and besties Philip & Ariella.
| caityrose1992 |
Yessenia is thrilled to be making her debut at MWT. She has performed with California Theatre (Beauty and the Beast) and RCP (In the Heights). She grew up training in Taekwondo; and began Salsa dancing in college. Her interest in singing also set off in the college church choir. She has a bachelor’s degree in Business from the University of San Diego; and is currently a Sr. Business Analyst within the health care industry and a California Realtor. Yessenia would like to thank her family and friends for their support!
| @yesseniarealty |
Gabriel is thrilled to continue his foray into the musical theater universe as Usnavi in Morgan-Wixson's In The Heights. Recently he had the pleasure of working in The Fable Theatre's production of Merrily We Roll Along as ensemble, swing, and Joe Josephson understudy. His original music can be found on all streaming platforms under the alias Michael Days. All the love and gratitude goes to his family for their never-ending support, to Lin, Quiara, and Alex for giving this story life, and to the whole cast and crew of this production for all of their hard work and dedication. No hay quinto malo!
| themichaeldays |
After a four year hiatus, Karla is happy to be making her debut at MWT, and overjoyed that her comeback is not only her favorite musical but that she gets to share this incredibly important story of home, family, love, and community in her family’s old barrio. She’s extremely grateful to her partner, family, friends, and the dreamteam for all their love and support! Some of her favorite past roles include Abuela Claudia (In the Heights) and Bad Idea Bear/Mrs.Thistletwat (Avenue Q) at Los Angeles Valley College and singing in “Heartbreak {A Working Title}” an original show by VV Productions. Karla wants to thank Ariella, the creative team, crew, and cast for their kindness, patience, lessons, and for believing in her! It truly is an honor to bring this story to life with such big hearted and talented people! “We’re home!” Para mi mami, que siempre está conmigo, seguiré haciéndote orgullosa de todo lo que se!
| @mellorinegirl17 |
Jenna is so excited to bring this beloved story to life alongside an amazing cast and production team. Other favorite credits include playing DJ Irene in ARENA: A House Music-al, and many showcases with The MOB Dance Company including Choreographer's Carnival, World of Dance LIVE, Welcome to the 805, and two dance films; Invite Only 2020 and 2021. Jenna has also trained with Society Training Program, Millennium Dance Complex Pittsburgh, and Margie Haber Acting Studio in Los Angeles. They are thankful for having such a supportive community including her partner, friends, family, and mentors along the way.
| jennasmall_ |
Ethan is thrilled to be a part of this iconic show that means so much to his community. Past favorite credits in Cornelius Hackl in Hello, Dolly!, Captain Von Trapp in The Sound of Music, the Sour Kangaroo in Seussical, Cinderella's Father in Into the Woods, and shows such as Jesus Christ Superstar and Rent. You can also find him singing with WestBeat and Mixed Company's Handbell Carolers during the holiday season.
Jorchual was born in Venezuela, raised in both Colombia and his natal country in which he develop a passion for acting, dancing and film. Jorchual came to Los Angeles in the pursue of a career in film as both an actor and a Filmmaker. He was able to stablished himself in the industry working in films, TV, commercials and music videos . Making his way in the industry he opened his very own Creative agency and film studio in LA. This is Jorchual’s first musical and he couldn’t be more excited to welcome you to El barrio!
| @jorchual |
| @jorchual |
Cynthia is thrilled to be part of the vibrant world of “In The Heights” and is grateful to be embraced by her new Barrio family. Cynthia has performed in various roles including Princess Tiana at Walt Disney World, Cookie Wilson in Smile, Alice's Daughter in Big River and more. She has also extended her performances to the realm of indie films, and has made an appearance in Netflix’s “Hustle” starring Adam Sandler. Cynthia would like to thank MWT for warmly welcoming her into their talented ensemble. It is an honor for her to share the stage with such incredible performers. She thanks director Ariella, choreographer Leo, and the entire production team for their creativity and passion in bringing “In The Heights” to life.
| @cynthiavassor |
Javon is very excited to be making his return to the Morgan-Wixon Stage. Credits Include Benvolio in Romeo And Juliet: Choose Your own Ending, Harlem Ensemble in Ragtime at The Kentwood Playhouse. When he’s not on stage enjoys vibing with his friends and family and outdoor walks. Javon wants to give love to his mom for being my number 1 fan and inspiring me to work harder and to be a Better man than I was the day before! ¡Wepa!
| @wavonjillis |
Ariella Salinas Fiore is an Actor, Creator, Director, Writer, Producer, Intimacy Director/Coordinator, Death Doula, Maker, and Activist. Raised in Los Angeles by immigrant parents from Central America, she graduated from the Hamilton Music Academy and UCLA and nothing feels more like home than being in the theatre. She is a lifelong advocate for body neutrality, and for plus size, queer, and Latinx representation in the media and strongly feels everyone has a story to tell. This is her 5th production of In the Heights, having been an actor in 4 previous productions, including the West Coast Regional Premiere of the show. She is thrilled with the opportunity to bring this story, which means so much to her, to her hometown of Santa Monica and at one of her home theaters. The gratitude she feels towards the board for the chance she has been given, towards her incredible cast and team, and to her family and friends for their unwavering support is immeasurable. She just directed the world premiere of a musical she co-wrote called Losing Your Humanity: A Zombie Musical, presented at the 2023 Hollywood Fringe Festival. Earlier this year she served as the assistant director for the successful Los Angeles run of Merrily We Roll Along. She has been on the Morgan Wixson stage as an actor in a few shows over the last 13 years including Urinetown, Glorious, and last summer’s Romeo and Juliet: Choose Your Own Ending. She is a proud member of Kaiser Permanente’s Care Actor team. TV credits include Shameless and Angie Tribeca. She is represented by Eris Talent Agency. You can see more of what is going on with her by following her on IG: @ariellasalinasfiore
| @ariellasalinasfiore |
Leonel Ayala (Choreographer)(He/Him): Leo is a freelance choreographer located in Los Angeles. He is excited to be making both his Morgan-Wixson debut AND his theatrical choreographer debut! Leo has performed in 4 different productions of In The Heights, with Palos Verdes Performing Arts being his most recent. Previous credits include: In the Heights (PVPA, MTWest, Candlelight, VPAC), 9 to 5! (MTWest), A Chorus Line (Welk Resort), Something Rotten! (MTWest), Legally Blonde (Cupcake), Edges (CSUN); TV: “The Oprah Winfrey Show”, “Dancing with the Stars”, “Cupcake Wars”, “America’s Got Talent”, and “The Voice.” You can also find him at Disneyland hosting the Tomorrowland Terrace Dance Party! He hopes this story moves you as it has continued to move him for the past decade. Thank you for supporting the arts; you are in for a treat with this cast! Special thanks to family and friends for their continued love and support, to this cast for trusting him and to Ariella for the opportunity to share this story as her choreographer. For Daniella, my guardian angel. Instagram/TikTok: @LeoAyala94
| @LeoAyala94 |
Jenny Chaney is an accomplished musician, teacher, world traveler and animal lover. Born into a musical family in Seoul, South Korea, Jenny studied piano and violin at an early age and continued her training after immigrating to the US at age 12. She received her music education at California State University Northridge where she studied piano performance and pedagogy. She has been music director/keyboard player in over 35 productions throughout Southern California where she also maintains a private music studio in Los Angeles. This is Jenny’s 3rd production of ITH, the first 2 as rehearsal accompanist/pit musician at Pasadena City College and Rubicon Theatre in Ventura, CA. She is thrilled and honored to be music director for Morgan-Wixson Theatre’s production of In The Heights.
Emily is so beyond happy to be the PSM for her favorite musical, In The Heights. Wepa! Her previous Stage Management work includes: Cinderella (2022), Andrew Lippa's Wild Party (2022), Drunk Theatre Company (2023), and Whisper the Musical (2023). She also works at the Morgan-Wixson Theatre as the Box Office & Facilities Manager. She would like to thank her Mom, partner Andrew, and roommate Ryan for all their support and love. Thanks to the Morgan-Wixson Theatre for producing such an important show. She dedicates this show to all the dreamers out there. No pare, sigue sigue!!
| @overrr__easy |
Emily OckoMichalak (Assistant Stage Manager)
Emily is thrilled to be part of the immensely talented cast and crew of "In the Heights." As a dedicated member of Morgan-Wixson’s YES program and an incoming 10th grader at Marlborough School, she is truly grateful for the opportunity to contribute more to her community as Assistant Stage Manager. The warmth and welcoming atmosphere of this group have made her experience even more special. Emily deeply appreciates the hard feelings work and dedication that have gone into bringing this show to life and feels incredibly fortunate to be part of such a magical production. Enjoy the show!
Emily is thrilled to be part of the immensely talented cast and crew of "In the Heights." As a dedicated member of Morgan-Wixson’s YES program and an incoming 10th grader at Marlborough School, she is truly grateful for the opportunity to contribute more to her community as Assistant Stage Manager. The warmth and welcoming atmosphere of this group have made her experience even more special. Emily deeply appreciates the hard feelings work and dedication that have gone into bringing this show to life and feels incredibly fortunate to be part of such a magical production. Enjoy the show!
| emilyockomichalak |
Samantha Jo is a Valley native who designed and made her first costume at ten years old for her role as Hermia in A Midsummer Night's Dream. Samantha Jo started her career working all over the San Fernando Valley with a variety of youth theater groups, whom she has to thank for her nearly endless supply of patience and inspiration. She currently runs the costume shop at Los Angeles Valley College, teaching costume construction and stage makeup. She also runs a small business, Cat Scratch Clothing, where she makes clothing and more, many of which are from recycled materials. She is only able to do so much because of her amazing support system of her husband, daughter, father, mother, brothers and friends.
| @catscratchclothing |
Nicole German (Prop Mistress)
Nicole is not only excited to work on In the Heights, but also thrilled to be working at the Morgan Wixon for the first time and "propping" her second show with her BFF, Ariella! This show is incredibly "prop heavy," but working with this very kind and talented cast and crew has been such a pleasure. Nicole would like to thank Ariella for the opportunity to work on this wonderful show, Emily and Andrew for their help and professionalism, and lastly to her husband Michael and daughter Mason for "hanging in there while mom works at the theatre."
Nicole is not only excited to work on In the Heights, but also thrilled to be working at the Morgan Wixon for the first time and "propping" her second show with her BFF, Ariella! This show is incredibly "prop heavy," but working with this very kind and talented cast and crew has been such a pleasure. Nicole would like to thank Ariella for the opportunity to work on this wonderful show, Emily and Andrew for their help and professionalism, and lastly to her husband Michael and daughter Mason for "hanging in there while mom works at the theatre."
Melodie is so proud to be associated with this production of IN THE HEIGHTS! Having served as performer, director, producer, specialty makeup artist, or scenic designer/artist for numerous other shows, she is so grateful to director Ariella Salinas Fiore for giving her this opportunity to work with a production team and cast of passionate professionals. Originally asked to co-produce this show with the incomparable Philip McBride, stepping into the scenic designer and scenic artist roles has been a life-changer for Melodie. Having worked exclusively with Samantha Barrios (Camila) on multiple award-winning scenic designs and execution, IN THE HEIGHTS is Melodie's first solo project. It was her joy to support the telling of this wonderful and important story, through color, composition, and authenticity. She gives thanks and praise to Bill Wilday (set designer and production technical director), for his partnership and support in bringing Washington Heights, New York to Santa Monica's Morgan Wixson stage. And finally, she's especially grateful for John C., without whom she would have lived on Cheetos and no breaks for weeks leading up to opening night.
Philip McBride is an LA-based performer and producer. Recent and upcoming producing credits include Merrily We Roll Along, Something Rotten!, elf – the musical, Losing Your Humanity (2023 Hollywood Fringe), Broadway and Beyond (June/July) and The Prom (September/October). Recent performing credits include Merrily We Roll Along (Charley), Something Rotten! (Nick Bottom), [title of show] (Hunter), Plaid Tidings (Sparky), It’s Only Life (LA Premiere), elf – the musical (Buddy), Seussical (Horton) and Mary Poppins (Bert). When not producing or performing, Philip uses his spare time to pursue his other passion as arranger/orchestrator for his music publishing company, Pikakee Music. Favorite arranging/orchestrating credits include On The Twentieth Century, Bucket List Cabaret Series and Relationship Status: It’s Complicated. For all of my guardian angels – who have the best seats in the house. For more info: PhilipLMcBride.com
Amanda is so excited to be part of this amazing show. She loves being behind the scenes as well as performing on stage. Some of her favorite roles she’s played in the past are: Christine in A Chorus Line, Ursula in Bye Bye Birdie, Lil Inez in Hairspray, Ensemble in In The Heights! Amanda wants to thank Ariella and the rest of the production team for all of their support and guidance. She hopes you enjoy the show.
| Amanda_Lenora |
| Amanda_Lenora |
Mikael Mattsson is an LA-based actor, fight choreographer, and stage combat professional for both screen and stage. Born and raised in Sweden, he began his career over 20 years ago, and has been permanently residing in LA since 2014. Mikael has choreographed everything from commercials to Shakespeare. Some favorite projects include: Macbeth (Long Beach Shakespeare Company), Spring Awakening (Windward School), Peter and the Starcatcher (MWT), Moon Over Buffalo (Santa Monica College), and Losing Your Humanity (Broadwater). Mikael is a proud graduate of USC School of Dramatic Arts (BA), and Guildford School of Acting (MFA). Mikael is super excited to be back choreographing at MWT.
| the_pantsless_actor |
Multimedia
Photo Credit: Joel D. Castro
Photo Credit: Joel D. Castro
Photo Credit: Joel D. Castro
Photo Credit: Joel D. Castro
Photo Credit: Joel D. Castro
Photo Credit: Joel D. Castro
Photo Credit: Joel D. Castro
Photo Credit: Joel D. Castro
Photo Credit: Joel D. Castro
Photo Credit: Joel D. Castro
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