Theatre by the Sea

About Us

After being closed for almost four years, Bill Hanney finalized the purchase of Theatre By The Sea on June 26, 2007. A producing partnership was quickly established with theatre veterans Amiee Turner and Joel Kipper in the hopes of putting up a show just 6 weeks later! Stephen Sondheim’s nine-time Tony Award-winning musical comedy, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum was chosen for this 2007 sneak preview summer event because it is not only one of America’s greatest and best loved musical comedies but a true celebration of theatre.

Mr. Hanney has independently produced theatrical and musical events and operates movie complexes in four New England states. Having seen numerous productions over the years, Theatre By The Sea has always held a special place in Mr. Hanney’s heart, and he remains committed to continuing the legacy of professional summer theater in Matunuck, which began in 1933.

Ms. Turner, a veteran of the Broadway stage, comes to Rhode Island from her work with a professional theatre in south Florida. Turner has a background in film, television and both commercial and non-profit theatre. As Producing Artistic Director for Theatre By The Sea she combines her eclectic variety of skills in producing, directing, choreography, development and business management.

Mr. Kipper is a native of Kansas City, Missouri, with a BFA in Musical Theatre Performance from Southwest Missouri State. Kipper, the Managing Producer for Theatre By The Sea, is a well-traveled actor who's performed in professional regional theatres across the country and around the world. In addition to his extensive performance experience, Kipper also has a strong background in technical theatre.

On the National register of historic places, Theatre by the Sea has once again been gloriously brought back to life. With an eye to the past and a vision for the future, the Producers will continue to meld traditional classic theatre with the newest award winning favorites.

Click here for History Directions to Theatre By The Sea

2009 Ocean State Theatre Company Staff
Producing Artistic Director: Amiee Turner Producer: Bill Hanney Managing Producer: Joel Kipper
Business Manager: Tom Senter
Director of Marketing and Public Relations: Karen Gail Kessler
Production Manager: Ryan P. McGinty
Casting Director: Todd Eskin

Technical Director: Nick Nevola; Properties Mistress: Jill Tarr; Scenic Artist: Tricia Green
Costume Shop Manager: Marcia Zammarelli; Master Electrician: Jesse Sutton; Wardrobe Supervisor: Samantha Gibbs
Box Office Manager: Ayla Ocasio; House Manager: Michael Daniels; Music Contractor: Michael Sartini

Company Manager: Vincent Lupino; Assistant Co. Managers: Lauren Ustaszewski & Sara Garner
Carpenters: Jacob Womack, Kyle Blanchette, Erin Canfield
Cutter/Draper: Yvonne Maloney; Stitchers: Sylvie Re, Savana Leveille
Sound Technician: Kristin Rizzo; Assistant Stage Manager: Marcie Shellenberger
Volunteer Coordinator: Ottis M. Winslow
Maintenance: Jacob Womack
2009 Intern Staff: Krystina Almaguer, Jenna Broccolo, Jordan Bohl, Lee Eisenberger, Amanda Hall,
Albert Jennings, Anna Kimmell, Molly Kaufhold, Matthew Meigs, Townsend Pass,
Nicole Paynich, Rachel Rice, Ryan Saber

Box Office Associates: Vincent Lupino, Sheila Fowler, Lauren Ustaszewski