Category Archives: Press Releases

Moliere’s THE LEARNED LADIES at Cincinnati Actor’s Studio Aug. 3-6

CASA_The Learned LadiesWhat does it mean to be a male or female in the world?

JULY 31, 2017—Tristate audiences are invited to explore the idea that function requires form as Cincinnati Actor’s Studio & Academy presents Moliere’s THE LEARNED LADIES.

It is 1630 in France. Spain’s Christopher Columbus introduced Europe to unknown civilizations whose reach is re-defining the term: “Conventional Wisdom”. In response to this period of philosophy and discovery, French women of a “certain” class are gathering to expand their intellectual horizons and fight to elevate their spot on the social ladder.

Moliere’s THE LEARNED LADIES shows us that despite enlightenment, however, some things never change. For all their lofty aspirations, the women of this Salon must still deal with the mundane concerns of daily living–romance, finances, and what is a woman’s place in the world. Sound familiar?

This production is the 3rd in CASA’s 2017 Summer Series and runs from August 3rd- 6th at Essex Studios. This show is directed by Cheryl Couch. Cast includes: Alena Firlie, Katie Tierney, Haley Gillman, Meg Griffin, Eliza Martin, Amber Smith, Julie Deye, Grace Wesson, Nora Tighe, Leanne Hays, & Olivia Dunn. Production crew includes Matt Berman as Asst. Director/Stage Manager and Finney Kutcher as Costume Designer.

Performances run August 3rd – 6th at 7:30PM and will take place at Essex Studios, 2511 Essex Pl, Cincinnati, Ohio 45206. Tickets can be reserved by emailing casatics@gmail.com. T ickets: Adults $15, Students $10. Summer Subscriptions are also available. For more information: www.casastudioacademy.com

This production of THE LEARNED LADIES offers the opportunity to explore these very modern themes through the pen of the renowned French playwright, Moliere. In the capable hands of long-time Cincinnati Director and Teacher, Cheryl Couch, the all-female cast of young thespians will lead audiences in an examination of these questions in an entertaining production that will satisfy both traditional and contemporary theatre fans. Ms. Couch notes that the production is staged to create a dialogue around relationships as well.

Ms. Couch states: “Audiences will be surprised at the humor and grace with which these young actors have embraced the challenge of bringing this stylized form of theater to life”.

In addition, as part of The Ghostlight Project, all summer long, theaters and theatre-makers across the country will take part in this initiative, meeting their neighbors, making meaningful connections with community organizations in their area, and learning how to be of service. CASA is proud to be taking part in this initiative. Throughout our Summer Series, CASA will be collecting canned foods for the Freestore Foodbank of Cincinnati as well as clothing & household items for the Off the Streets program at Anna Louise Inn, located in Clifton. See boxes in our lobby to donate.

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The Drama Workshop Celebrates Another Successful Season

TDW_The Honk

TDW’s production of THE ODD COUPLE garnered 17 awards from the Association of Community Theatres, highlighting a very successful year for the Cheviot-based theatre company. The group’s 2017-2018 season starts on August 11 with the musical comedy A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM. Pictured are Chris Bishop as Oscar Madison & Eric Thomas as Felix Ungar. Photo by Kristy Rucker.

(Cheviot, Ohio) The Drama Workshop has concluded another great year of theatre in its home in the Cheviot business district, and is excited to build on last year’s success as it prepares for its 2017-2018 season.

For the 2016-2017 season, The Drama Workshop set a record for attendance, with over 4,000 patrons. Additionally, the group set a record for recognition received from the Association of Community Theatres of Greater Cincinnati, with 69 awards for excellence in acting, direction, and other performance and technical areas ranging from scenic design to properties to costuming.

TDW’s production of THE ODD COUPLE, directed by Ray Persing, led the group with 17 awards. “I think a lot of our success is due to attention to detail, whether it’s performances or the different technical areas,” he said. “People know that when they come to TDW that they’re going to see a great show, and at a great price. It’s a cheaper evening out than going to a movie.”

Tobie Braverman, TDW’s president, is extremely proud of the group’s accomplishments. “We have been overwhelmed by our attendance numbers as well as the recognition we have received in both awards and patron feedback.   It’s sometimes easy for people to forget that this is an all-volunteer group, which year after year, presents theatre of outstanding quality.”

In addition to the local accolades, TDW was selected to participate in the Ohio Community Theatre Association state festival this year, restaging a portion of last season’s hit, ALWAYS…PATSY CLINE, over Labor Day weekend. The group also represented the State of Ohio at the American Association of Community Theatres 5-state regional festival with a restaged version of the 2016 hit, UNNECESSARY FARCE.

TDW’s new five-show season kicks off on August 11, with the hysterical musical comedy, A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM, followed by four more shows between October 2017 and May 2018: the dark comedy, NATURAL CAUSES; the uproariously funny farce, INSPECTING CAROL; a new thriller by a local playwright, “THE GIRLS OF MILLER’S COURT: THE HUNT FOR JACK THE RIPPER; and the stage adaptation of the classic comedy, THE STING.

Season tickets are $70 each, and may be ordered by phoning the TDW box office at 513.598.8303. In addition to a discount over the regular ticket prices, season ticket holders also receive reserved, preferred seating in what is normally a general seating venue. 285 patrons have already signed up for the next season, representing almost one-third of the available seats.

In addition to season tickets, single show tickets for A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM are also on sale, and can be ordered through the TDW box office. Seating is limited, and advance reservations are strongly recommended.

The Drama Workshop was founded in 1954. TDW is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to advancing education and promotion of the theatrical arts. The Drama Workshop is widely recognized as one of greater Cincinnati’s most accomplished community theater organizations, garnering dozens of awards annually from the Association of Community Theatres of Greater Cincinnati.

TDW productions are frequently been selected to represent the Southwest Ohio region at the Ohio Community Theatre Association annual conference, including this past season with our production of “Aways…Patsy Cline”. TDW was also honored to represent the state of Ohio at the 2013 and 2017 American Association of Community Theatre regional conferences. The Drama Workshop has been recognized the Cincinnati Preservation Association for their efforts to rehabilitate the former Glenmore Bowl into The Glenmore Playhouse.

Prospective members, and individuals or businesses interested in becoming involved or in helping advance TDW’s mission are encouraged to contact the group through our website at www.thedramaworkshop.org, or by phone at 513.598.8303.

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The Carnegie Opens 2017-18 Theatre Season With THE FULL MONTY

TC_Full Monty promo1.jpgPLAYING WEEKENDS AUGUST 12-27, 2017

(COVINGTON, KY) – The Carnegie is preparing to “bare it all” with the 2017-18 Theatre Series opener, THE FULL MONTY, running weekends, August 12-27, 2017.

Directed by Matthew Wilson, THE FULL MONTY tells the story of a band of steelworkers from Buffalo, NY who lose their jobs when the mill closes. The men cook up a hilarious scheme to reinvigorate their bank accounts and self-confidence by becoming a male striptease act, but it won’t be easy. Between learning to dance, dealing with body issues, and revealing the plan to their wives, the men must expose more than their bare-bottoms to make the plan a reality.

“This show offers a lot of hilarity and all-out fun, while also telling a heart-warming tale about a man trying to be the kind of father his son deserves,” said Carnegie Theatre Director Maggie Perrino. “Not every show can have you roaring with laughter one minute, and be tugging at your heart strings the next. THE FULL MONTY is truly a special evening of theatre.”

Performances of THE FULL MONTY will run weekends August 12 – 27, Friday & Saturday evenings at 7:30pm, Sundays at 3:00pm. Tickets are $30, $27 for Carnegie Members, Northern Kentucky Chamber Members and Enjoy the Arts Members, $23 for students. Tickets can be purchased through The Carnegie Box Office, open Tuesday – Friday 12pm – 5pm, in person or by phone at (859) 957-1940, or online at www.thecarnegie.com. Patrons seeking group or student tickets should call to make arrangements.

The 2017-18 Carnegie Theatre Series is sponsored by the Otto M. Budig Family Foundation.

THE FULL MONTY is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

About The Carnegie: The Carnegie is Northern Kentucky’s largest multidisciplinary arts venue providing theatre events, educational programs and art exhibitions to the Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati community. The Carnegie facility is home to The Carnegie Galleries, the Otto M. Budig Theatre, and the Eva G. Farris Education Center.  More information about The Carnegie is available at www.thecarnegie.com or by calling (859) 491-2030.

The Carnegie receives ongoing operating support from Cincinnati Wine Festival, The Greater Cincinnati Foundation, Kenton County Fiscal Courts, The City of Covington, and the Kentucky Arts Council. The Carnegie is also supported by the generosity of more than 40,000 contributors to the ArtsWave Community Campaign.

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THE FULL MONTY Cast and Production Team List

CAST LIST:

  • Jerry- Zachary Huffman
  • Dave- Sean Mette
  • Horse- R. Deandre Smith
  • Harold- Brian Anderson
  • Ethan- Robert Breslin
  • Malcolm- Kelcey Steele
  • Jeanette- Sherry McCamley
  • Georgie- Lormarev Jones
  • Vickie- Aubrey Wilson
  • Nathan- Peanut Edmonson
  • Pam- Sara Kenny
  • Keno/Ensemble- Jesse Lawrence
  • Teddy/Ensemble- Spenser Smith
  • Tony/Ensemble- Stephen Welch
  • Minister/Ensemble- Don S. Wong
  • Reg/Ensemble- BJ Simpson
  • Susan/Ensemble- Courtni Nicolacci
  • Estelle/Ensemble- Sarah Willis
  • Molly/Ensemble- Kathryn Klens
  • Joanie/Ensemble- Jules Shumate

PRODUCTION TEAM:

  • Director- Matthew Wilson
  • Choreographer- Jay Goodlett
  • Music Director- Xan Jeffery
  • Stage Manager- Carissa Gandenberger
  • Asst Stage Manager/Props- Kylie Kanter
  • Scenic Designer- Doug Stock
  • Costume Designer- Cheyenne Hamberg
  • Wardrobe Manager- Josh Newman
  • Sound Designer- Avery Reynolds
  • Production Manager- Bleu Pellman
  • Producer- Maggie Perrino

Tickets:

  • $30 Adults
  • $23 Students
  • $27 Carnegie Members, Northern Kentucky Chamber Members, Enjoy the Arts Members
  • $25 Groups of 8 or More

Performances:

THE FULL MONTY will include *eight performances:

Saturday, August 12, 7:30pm ● Sunday, August 13, 3pm
Friday, August 18, 7:30pm ● Saturday, August 19, 7:30pm ● Sunday, August 20, 3pm

Friday, August 25, 7:30pm ● Saturday, August 26, 7:30pm ● Sunday, August 27, 3pm
*Please note that opening night takes place on a Saturday

Select Bios

Matthew Wilson – Director
Matthew Wilson has been a fixture in the Greater Cincinnati theatre scene for over twenty years having performed in numerous shows with Cincinnati Landmark Productions, Children’s Theater of Cincinnati, Falcon Theater and The Drama Workshop to name a few.  It is however as a director that he has made his biggest mark in recent years earning praise from critics and audiences alike for his productions of DAMN YANKEES, THE ROCKER HORROR SHOW, CHICAGO, RENT, 1776 (Warsaw Federal Incline Theater) INTO THE WOODS, THE WILL ROGERS FOLLIES, A CHORUS LINE, SHE LOVES ME, (Covedale Center for the Performing Arts) and THE WIZARD OF OZ at the Carnegie.  Next he will tackle his dream role of the Emcee in CABARET and directing SPAMALOT both at the Warsaw Federal Incline Theater.

Zachary Huffman – Jerry Lukowski
Zachary Huffman has taken the stage at The Carnegie playing Bobby in 2015’s COMPANY. He has been seen around Cincinnati in many different productions, most recently in THE CIVIL WAR with Showbiz Players. Some favorite roles include; Thomas in THE STORY OF MY LIFE, Roger in RENT, and Bobby Strong in URINETOWN.

Sean P. Mette – Dave Bukatinsky
Sean P. Mette has been in several previous performances with the Carnegie, most notably as the Cowardly Lion in THE WIZARD OF OZ and Marcellus Washburn in THE MUSIC MAN. Sean is also the Founder and Artistic Director of Autumn Kaleidoscope, whose productions of MY DARLING DILOPHOSAURUS and FURLESQUE both premiered at the Cincinnati Fringe Festival

R. DeAndré Smith – Noah “Horee” T. Simmons
R. DeAndré Smith has performed on stages nationally and internationally, performing with companies based in Montana, Ohio, and Virginia. His favorite credits include I HAVE A DREAM: The Life and Times of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., ONCE ON THIS ISLAND, BIG RIVER, BAT BOY the Musical, RENT, A WRINKLE IN TIME, and JERRY SPRINGER the Opera.

Kelcey Steele – Malcom MacGregor
Kelcey Steele is once again appearing on the Carnegie stage, having performed last year as Drew Boley in ROCK OF AGES. Other favorite credits include: Mark Cohen (RENT) and Billy Crocker (ANYTHING GOES) at the Incline theater, and Charlie Dalrymple (BRIGADOON) at the Covedale. Kelcey is also a retired Irish dancer, having placed as high as 3rd in the world

Spenser Smith – Teddy Slaughter

Spenser Smith is returning to The Carnegie after appearing last summer as Franz in ROCK OF AGES. This summer, Spenser appeared as Richard Hannay in THE 39 STEPS at NKU. Favorite roles include Leo Bloom in THE PRODUCERS, Lord Farquaad in SHREK, THE MUSICAL and Chip Tolentino in SPELLING BEE. Spenser earned a BFA in Acting from NKU where his favorite roles include Inspector Truscott in LOOT, for which he won an Acclaim Award. During normal business hours, Spenser is the Development Director at Madcap Puppets.

Sherry McCamley – Jeanette Burmeister
Sherry McCamley will make her Carnegie onstage debut as Jeanette. She was Music Director/Pianist at The Carnegie for productions of AVENUE Q and SPAMALOT. Sherry has long been a fixture on the local theatre scene, having directed, musical directed, and performed in dozens of productions.  Some of her favorite acting roles include Mrs. Bates in EMMA (Playhouse in the Park), Rita in COWGIRLS (Ensemble Theatre), Ms. Pennywise in URINETOWN THE MUSICAL (Showbiz Players) and her bucket list role, Mama Rose in the Covedale’s production of GYPSY.  Recently, through a grant from the Cincinnati Arts Ambassadors Fellowship Program, Sherry wrote a cabaret-style show with Cathy Springfield dealing with mental health issues called “She’s Crazy: Mental Health & Other Myths,” and they have been performing the show in theaters and for various mental health agencies in OH, KY, and PA. Sherry is Drama Director/Teacher at Milford High School. Sherry has sung and played piano in cabaret shows in NYC, CA, PA, and all over the Cincinnati area.

Sara Kenny – Pam Lukowski
Sara Kenny is no stranger to the Carnegie Stage. She was last seen in Regional Premiere hit musical DISENCHANTED playing Snow White. Sara has also been in MUSIC MAN (Ethel Toffelmeier) and COMPANY playing Amy (“Not Getting Married Today”) at The Carnegie. Sara has worked with The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati, The Commonwealth Theatre Company, Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati as well as performance opportunities in Louisville, KY & Iowa at The Old Creamery Theatre. Favorite professional credits include: SNOOPY!!! THE MUSICAL (Lucy Van Pelt), TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD (Stephanie Crawford), LIFE COULD BE A DREAM (Mrs. Varney), NEXT TO NORMAL (Diana u/s), NUNSENSE (Mother Superior), and UNIDENTIFIED HUMAN REMAINS AND THE TRUE NATURE OF LOVE (Jerry). Sara graduated with her BFA in performance from Northern Kentucky University and completed a Performance Internship at the Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati.

Aubrey Wilson – Vicki Nichols
Aubrey Wilson is making her debut with The Carnegie. Favorite credits include THE GREAT AMERICAN TRAILER PARK MUSICAL (Pippi), BLOOD BROTHERS (Linda), NEXT TO NORMAL (Natalie) and PROOF (Catherine).

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Expanded 2018 ‘Summer Classics Season’ Announced for Warsaw Federal Incline Theater

Four-Show Season Features Classics, Comedy and the Caribbean

CLPCincinnati Landmark Productions announced today its newly expanded 2018 Summer Classics Season at the Warsaw Federal Incline Theater.

The 2018 Summer Classics Season, presented by TriHealth, includes:

  • BYE BYE BIRDIE, May 2-27, 2018
  • ONCE ON THIS ISLAND, June 6 – July 1, 2018
  • THE MYSTERY OF IRMA VEP, July 11 – August 5, 2018
  • JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, August 15 – September 9, 2018

The popular series expands from three productions to four in 2018. This follows Cincinnati Landmark Productions’ decision to expand the runs of each production from three weeks to four weeks in 2016. Officials say they are simply trying to quench patrons’ thirst for fun, summer-time theater in Cincinnati.

“This company began as a summer theater provider,” said Tim Perrino, Executive Artistic Director of Cincinnati Landmark Productions. “It’s in our DNA. So expanding this series was a natural step. But we couldn’t do it without the support of our enthusiastic patron base. They told us they want more, so we’re giving them more. The 2018 season is a going to be a runaway hit.”

WFIT_Sign at nightThe Warsaw Federal Incline Theater is the purpose-built, 229-seat performing arts center and parking garage in the Incline District in East Price Hill. Located at the corner of Matson Place and West 8th Street, the $6 million project opened on June 3, 2015.

Subscriptions for the 2018 Summer Classics Season – only $96 – are now on sale.

Subscribers to the 2017 Summer Classics Season will have their seats held for renewal until March 2, 2018. All seats not renewed by that time will be released. Tickets to individual shows go on sale on April 2, 2018.

The Warsaw Federal Incline Theater is programmed year-round by Cincinnati Landmark Productions, culminating in over 120 show nights. In addition to the Summer Classics Season, the venue hosts the three-show District Series season (September to May), an edgier slate of productions designed as an alternative to the concurrent Marquee season at the Covedale Center.

Cincinnati Landmark Productions has been serving the West Side for over 30 years – first through its Cincinnati Young People’s Theatre program and then through its ownership and management of the Covedale Center for the Performing Arts in West Price Hill.

For more information about the Warsaw Federal Incline Theater, visit www.clpshows.org or call (513) 241-6550.

# # #

More about the 2018 Summer Classics Season
at the Warsaw Federal Incline Theater:

BYE BYE BIRDIE
May 2-27, 2018
Book by Michael Stewart; Music by Charles Strouse; Lyrics by Lee Adams

A loving send-up of pre-Beatles, 1960’s small-town America and Rock & Roll, Bye Bye Birdie remains as fresh and vibrant as ever. Teen heartthrob Conrad Birdie gets drafted, so he chooses All-American girl Kim MacAfee for a very public farewell kiss. With a tuneful high-energy score, riotous teen romance and a hilarious script, Birdiecontinues to thrill audiences around the world. Hit songs include “Put on a Happy Face,” “One Last Kiss,” “One Boy,” “A Lot of Livin’ to Do,” “Kids!” and “Rosie.”

ONCE ON THIS ISLAND
June 6 – July 1, 2018
by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty

Ti Moune, a peasant girl, falls in love with a wealthy boy from the other side of the island, Daniel. Unbeknownst to her, the pompous gods of the island make a bet over which is stronger, love or death – the stakes being Ti Moune’s life. When Daniel returns to his people, Ti Moune is shunned because of her lowly status. Her determination and capacity to love is not enough to win Daniel’s heart. Will Ti Moune pay the ultimate price? Winner of the 1995 Olivier Award in London for Best New Musical, this show features exciting island-flavored songs, including “Waiting for Life,” “One Small Girl,” “The Human Heart” and “Why We Tell the Story.”

THE MYSTERY OF IRMA VEP
July 11 – August 5, 2018
by Charles Ludlam

A sympathetic werewolf, a vampire, an ancient Egyptian princess brought to life, a lonely British Lord named Edgar, his new wife, her snooty maid, a disappearing/re-appearing groundskeeper and other macabre and madcap characters make this a comedy that has everything – especially when you consider that they’re all played by only two actors in a bewildering series of costume changes and clever scenes that will make your head spin! Can Lord Edgar’s expedition to Egypt discover the secrets of immortality? This is the kind of fun that gets people hooked on theater in the first place. Far and away the funniest two hours you’ll experience on stage!

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR
August 15 – September 9, 2018
Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber; Lyrics by Tim Rice

What’s the buzz? Jesus Christ Superstar has wowed audiences for over 40 years. A timeless work, the rock opera is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary and universally-known series of events but seen, unusually, through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. Loosely based on the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, Superstarfollows the last week of Jesus Christ’s life. The story, told entirely through song, explores the personal relationships and struggles between Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdalene, his disciples, his followers and the Roman Empire. The iconic 1970s rock score contains such well-known numbers as “Superstar,” “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” and “Gethsemane.”

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The Regional Premiere of Roald Dahl’s JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH at Beechmont Players

BPI_James and the Giant Peach logoBeechmont Players is excited to present the regional premiere of

Roald Dahl’s JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH
Words and Music by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul
Book by Timothy Allen McDonald
Based on the book by Roald Dahl

August 4 – 12, 2017
At the Anderson Center Theater
7850 Five Mile Road
Anderson Township, OH 45230

Directed by Fred Tacon
Choreography by Dee Ann Bryll
Vocal Direction by Sarah Mizelle
Music Direction by Charles Wilhelm
Produced by Pam Kaesemeyer

Come see this fresh and delightfully offbeat musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s fantastical tale about a boy, his extraordinary friends, and their amazing journey across the ocean on a giant piece of fruit! To escape the clutches of his evil aunts, the orphaned James and his companions must overcome hunger, sharks, and each other to discover the true meaning of home and family. Complete with a live orchestra, puppetry, magical special effects, and a giant peach, of course! The whole family will love this musical “masterpeach!”

Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach features a wickedly tuneful score by the red-hot Oscar and Tony winning songwriting team of Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (Dear Evan Hansen, Dogfight, A Christmas Story the Musical, and movies La La Land and Trolls), and a fun and quirky book by Timothy Allen McDonald (Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka, The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley, Between the Lines).

Cast:

  • James – Andrew Ramos
  • Ladahlord – Mark Culp
  • Spiker – Emily Martin
  • Sponge – Kendra Struthers
  • Lady Bug – Jessica Nguyen
  • Spider – Jaqlyn Schott
  • Grasshopper – Zachary Julian
  • Earthworm – Nathan Henegar
  • Centipede – Karl Bolinger

Ensemble:

  • Bert Bathiany
  • Amanda Bauer
  • Anna Beyette
  • Jill Blessing
  • Pam Blessing (Dance Captain)
  • Emily Church
  • Parker Culp
  • Jody Hart
  • PJ Karpew
  • James Martin
  • Matthew Nassida
  • Maria Ramos
  • Rebecca Wiesman

Performances:

  • Friday, August 4, 2017 @ 8pm
  • Saturday, August 5, 2017 @ 8pm
  • Sunday, August 6, 2017 @ 3pm
  • Friday, August 11, 2017 @ 8pm
  • Saturday, August 12, 2017 @ 3pm and 8pm

Tickets:

Buy tickets online at or call the box office at 513-233-2468.

  • Adults: $15
  • Students/Seniors: $13
  • Groups 10+: All $13 (must call box office, not available online – 513-233-2468)

Produced by special arrangement with Music Theatre International.

Beechmont Players, Inc.
www.beechmontplayers.org

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