M a r k   H a r e l i k ' s

RUN: June 28 - July 28, 2002 (Return engagement August 30-31, 2002)

SYNOPSIS: The Immigrant is a heartfelt, funny, lovable play which brings a fresh slant on the age-old story of immigration and assimilation. It is a charming biographical tale of the author's grandfather, a Russian Jew, who arrived in the Port of Galveston Texas at the turn of the century. The play spans thirty years of the family's growth and contributions to the town of Hamilton, Texas.  MORE...

	Matthew Venuto as "Haskell Harelik" Matthew is a new addition to the Center Players' family. He is a native to Freehold and was raised in Monmouth County. Experienced in theater productions, Matthew has been absent from the play genre for the past few years... instead, working on independent films with 105 Productions, as well as doing some television and commercial work. Primarily he as spent the past two years working weekly with Red Bank's Improv Comedy Jam... performing as well as studying comedy and improvisational technique. He is currently working on bachelors' degrees in the areas of economics and foreign languages. Matthew has promised to give 100% for you on stage.
	Jody Reisa Nurre as "Ima Perry" A resident of Freehold, Jody appeared most recently in Center Players' production of Play On! She received a BFA at SUNY Albany in Theater Arts, continued her studies at Circle in the Square's professional conservatory program in NYC. She has played a variety of roles including her award-winning rendition of "Charlie the Chicken," Cory in Barefoot in the Park, Luella in The Diviners, and Rizzo in Grease. She has also worked behind the scenes as Asst. Stage Manager for CSC's production of Moliere's The Learned Ladies starring Jean Stapleton. Jody is thrilled to be a part of this very talented cast!
	Peter Stern as "Milton Perry" This production marks Peter's debut with Center Players. He is enthused to be working with this very talented cast of actors and the fabulous crew. He has appeared in numerous community theater productions and most recently as Willy Loman in Death of A Salesman. Peter makes his home in Freehold where he lives with his wife Judi and his two dogs. He has two children, Jennifer and Howard, of whom he is extremely proud. Thanks to Bernice and Pam for their wonderful direction and insight. He dedicates this performance to Dorothy who has always been there for him and who he loves very much.
	Adena Wirski as "Leah Harelick" First appearing on Center Players' stage in The Immigrant, Adena has been in a number of shows since "the bug" bit her in '96. Each experience is her favorite. She sends her undying gratitude to the cast & crew that defines dedication. And also to all her friends and family for their support and love. This show is dedicated to her brother Dion, who tells her she's a star. "I love you Goose." To the audience - "Please open your hearts, relax and float back in time with us.".
BEHIND THE SCENES:
	Bernice Garfield-Szita, Director A resident of Manalapan, Bernice is honored to direct the talented and dedicated cast and crew of The Immigrant. She has been inspired by the arts and drama since childhood and has been active in theater for the past thirty five years. Bernice is no stranger to Center Players as she was a member of the Board that opened Center Playhouse in March 2001. She co-directed the premier Signature Series offering, Crossing Delancey, produced Laughter on the 23rd Floor, and played 'Gerry Dunbar' in Play On!  The Immigrant has special meaning to Bernice since her grandparents also immigrated to the United States from Russia at the turn of the century. The love and poignant humor of the characters remind her of her gratitude for her wonderfully supportive husband Bob and her fine daughters Pam and Stacey.  MORE...
	Pamela Reneé, Assistant Director Pam, from Ocean Grove, most recently portrayed Violet/Diana in Play On! with Center Players. She has also recently been seen as Emily Webb in Our Town with the New Peapack Players. She earned a BA in Theatre at the University of Pittsburgh and acted professionally for four years at Sight and Sound Entertainment Center in Lancaster County. She's directed Marsha Norman's Getting Out and Third and Oak: The Laundromat, along with directing herself in A Lovely Light, a one-woman play about the life of poet, Edna St. Vincent Millay. Pamela is grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a wonderful theatre family at Center Players and values every minute spent working with and growing from The Immigrant.

Winners of "The Immigrant" Essay Contest!