As we gather in this shared space, I am thrilled to welcome you to our production of "Kringle's Window." This enchanting play invites us to peer into a world where magic and wonder intersect with the ordinary, where the spirit of generosity and the joy of giving illuminate even the darkest corners.
"Kringle's Window" is more than a holiday tale; it is a celebration of the human spirit, the power of kindness, and the magic that resides in each of us. As a director, my vision for this production is to transport you to a place where belief in the impossible is not only encouraged but essential. The play invites us to rediscover the joy of embracing the unknown, of finding beauty in unexpected places, and of connecting with others through acts of kindness.
Our talented cast and crew have poured their hearts into bringing this story to life. From the charming characters to the festive set design, every element has been carefully crafted to immerse you in the magic of the season. We hope to awaken the childlike wonder within each of you, encouraging you to look at the world through the lens of possibility.
"Kringle's Window" is not just a play; it is an invitation to believe in the extraordinary, to embrace the spirit of giving, and to find joy in the simple pleasures of life. As the curtains rise, allow yourself to be transported to a world where the magic of the holidays becomes tangible, and where the message of love and generosity transcends the boundaries of the stage.
Thank you for joining us on this magical journey. May "Kringle's Window" warm your hearts and inspire you to carry the spirit of joy, kindness, and wonder into the holiday season and beyond.
Produced by special arrangement with
Dramatist Play Service
New York
Micheal Kott (Director / Producer) Micheal has been involved with the Jedlicka Performing Arts Center since 1997 - His first production was the Midwest Premier of BLOOD BROTHERS. Micheal has been involved in over 80 productions here at JPAC as actor, director or designer. Favorite roles include Edna in the Midwest premier of HAIRSPRAY, Lumiere in BEAUTY and THE BEAST, Pop in Queen's WE WILL ROCK YOU and Richard Jannings in Rupert Holmes' SOLITARY CONFINEMENT. Micheal is the Associate Dean of Learning Resource and Performing Arts Center here at Morton College. "I am thrilled to be at the helm of JPAC and excited to help revitalize the academic theatre program at MC. Watch us as we grow."
Joelle Beranek (Costume Designer) is so happy to keep her costume designer “hat” on by costuming JPAC productions. You may have seen her work at JPAC from 2008-2012 (most memorable Hairspray, Phantom of the Opera, and Copacabana) as well as the more recent two JPAC seasons. Joelle is a graduate of Northwestern University, proud mom of three, and has a lively career in the event planning industry. Thanks for coming out to support the ‘working’ world of the arts!
De La Torre (Stage Manager) I started as an actor with She Kills Monsters and the Addams Family. My first lead role was Tito in Stand and Deliver. At the end of senior year, I practiced 2 monologues for a scholarship at JPAC. Though I aspired to be an actor in college, being a stage manager shifted my aspirations in theatre
Casey Nussbaum (Construction) This is his second show at Morton College instead of doing lights this time he is doing some acting in the show which he is playing ( Rented Santa, an Elf, and making magic ) and he is also a shop builder helping Gary with the set which he has loved for how it has turned out. His theatre Carrer so far is for Tech at Highschool: The Crucible,for District 99 theatre he helped out with The Little Mermaid, and Beauty and the Beast for acting he did The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Morton East Highschool) Tech at Morton College Steel magnolias and for acting Kringles Window He is loving being in this department and will be in more tech or acting and shop building as well and is glad to be apart of the Theatre department at Morton College. And a quote he says every time the set is getting built he says " It looks better every day we build it"
Anthony Crespo (Crew) - This is Anthony's first show at Morton College - In fact, it's his first time running crew. Anthony was involved in many production at Morton West, but on stage. Anthony is a first year student here at MC and he is one of four recipients of MC's first annual theatre scholarship.
Gary Dennis (Technical Director / Designer) is a native of Mobile, Alabama where he discovered his love of theater . While there he performed as Curly and Jud in Oklahoma, Gus in Babes in Arms, and Amos Heart in Chicago. Gary attended the Alabama School of Fine Arts in Birmingham, Alabama, and University of South Alabama in Mobile pursuing a career in Theater Arts and Opera. Gary was Technical Director/Producer at the Entertainer Dinner Theater in Mobile, Alabama, producing such shows as Guys and Dolls, The Wizard of Oz, and Bells are Ringing. Gary married Sharon in 2007 and relocated to Nashville, Tennessee, where his two daughters were born. In 2018, Gary, his wife and children went to St. Thomas, USVI, to help rebuild after two category five hurricanes made landfall. They stayed 3 years. Gary’s wife and children are also talented performers. They helped restore the Pistarkle Theater and performed Babes in Toyland, Evita, Death Trap, and Dreamgirls. Looking for their next adventure, and growing tired of sitting under palm trees in 76-degree weather, Gary and his family moved to the Chicago area in December of 2021, where Gary is living his dream as Technical Director/Production Manager at the JPAC, and his family are happy and currently active in theater.
Director………………………………………..…………...........Micheal A. Kott
Stage Manager……………………..………….……............... De La Torre*†
Costumes....................................................................Joelle Beranek
Lights ……………….…………...…..............…..........….…….... Zuzel
Sound …………….……………….…...……................................Irma Gupta
Stage Crew............................................................Casey Nussbaum,
Gary Dennis
Set Design/Construction…….....…...…..……........……….. Gary Dennis
Casey Nussbaum*
De La Torre*
Micheal Kott
Props…………………………..........………..............................Gary Dennis
Casey Nussbaum*
Sophia De La Torre*†
Micheal Kott
*Denotes Morton College Student
† Denotes Talent and Leadership Scholarship Recipient (theatre)