HOMEGROWN TALENT IN THE PIT ORCHESTRA OF COMPANY
Wagner College Theatre is proud to spotlight the exceptional musicians powering its Main Stage production of Stephen Sondheim’s COMPANY, showcasing a pit orchestra deeply rooted in the Wagner and Staten Island community. Composed of students, alumni, and faculty, the ensemble is a shining example of Wagner’s commitment to cultivating ties to the local community.
The Orchestra: Where Experience Meets Community
At the helm is Dr. Lauri Young, who has been WCT’s Resident Music Director for over 25 years. A cornerstone of the Theatre Department, Dr. Young continues to set a high bar for musical integrity and collaboration.
Joining her on Keyboard 2 is Joshua Sottile (‘16), a Theatre Performance graduate whose Wagner credits include CAROUSEL, MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG, and DAMN YANKEES. Sottile, an accompanist for the department, debuted as Music Director on last spring’s RENT. Up next he will music direct Wagner’s spring production of BRIGHT STAR .
Sabrina Isaac (Reed 1) is a Staten Island-based freelance woodwind performer and educator with degrees from the Mannes School of Music and Montclair State University. Isaac regularly performs in New York orchestras and teaches both privately and at NYC schools. She made her WCT debut in CITY OF ANGELS.
Curtis Holtgrefe (Reed 2) serves as Music Director of both the Wagner College Band and Jazz Ensemble and also gives lessons to Wagner students studying reed instruments.
Michael Gennari (Reed 3) is Staten Island based musician and a new addition to the Wagner family who adds depth and versatility to the section with a broad range of woodwind expertise.
Tim Wendt (Trumpet) is a longtime fixture of the WCT pit orchestra with COMPANY his 26th production at Wagner and his 327th musical overall. During WCT’s 2023-24 season Tim celebrated the milestone of his 300th career musical with ME AND MY GIRL. Wendt’s illustrious career spans national tours, Broadway, and TV appearances.
Dr. Ryan Hayward (Trombone) Wagner faculty member, teaching instrumental lessons in brass, brings technical expertise and teaching experience to the brass section.
Justin Kemp (Drums) is a familiar face in Wagner’s orchestra pit and an accomplished musician whose steady rhythm keeps the ensemble moving.
STUDENT EXCELLENCE
Joining the faculty, guest artists, and alumni are three student musicians who bring incredible talent to the ensemble.
Emily Alcaide is a senior Theatre Performance major from Central Jersey whose past credits include DAUGHTER OF LEDA, THE VEHICLES THAT BROUGHT ME HERE, SOMETHING ROTTEN, and AS YOU LIKE IT. Frequently performing on guitar and bass in NYC and NJ and will appear in WCT’s upcoming production of William Inge’s PICNIC. For COMPANY you’ll hear her on bass.
Maddie Vaillancourt is senior Theatre Performance major playing cello in the pit. Her past WCT credits include ONCE UPON A MATTRESS, CITY OF ANGELS, DAUGHTERS OF LEDA, ME AND MY GIRL, and THE PROM. She’s previously brought her talents on the cello to the bands for A GRAND NIGHT FOR SINGING and REBEL GENIUS.
Behind the scenes, junior Theatre Performance major Vasilisa Zhidkova serves as Assistant Music Director and Rehearsal Pianist, playing a crucial role in shaping the production's musical identity throughout the process. Hailing from Moscow, she will be joining Dr. Young and Joshua Sottile for a joint piano recital on December 6th at 8pm in the Wagner College Music Performance Center.