The San Diego Junior Theatre Board of Trustees

Dear Darien Webster, Lizbeth Persons Price, Ken Ruggiero, Catherine Morrison, Becky
Biegelsen, David Braun, Krista Cabrera, Stephen Flach, Celestina Cozic, Joan Dawson,
Michael Luisi, Dr. Joseph M. Marron, Karen Quiones, Jason Rao, and Ron Williams: We are
very disappointed with your decisions.Please read the list of signatures and comments on
this petition, and reconsider your decision. The secrecy of the SDJT Board of Trustees must
come to an end. We demand transparency and change.

Name

From

Comments

1.

Sebastian Mellen

San Diego, CA

2.

wg Mills

ROUND ROCK, TX

3.

Micah Fong

San Diego, CA

4.

Steph L

SCOTTSDALE, AZ

5.

Spencer Williams

Chula Vista, CA

6.

Molly Nilsen

Coronado, CA

Rayme Sciaroni was my first director at Junior Theatre, in

the Sound of Music 2012. He always brings such a bright,
positive energy wherever he goes, and that for me is what
makes Junior Theatre so special. Junior Theatre is a safe,
happy environment where I can go and not think about
anything else going on. Rayme plays a big part in creating
that for me, and every other kid who goes to JT. He is such
a special person and an amazing director, and I couldn't
imagine not being able to work with him again. And Tony
Cucuzella, he pretty much makes the show's happen. He
designs absolutely beautiful sets for every show, teaches
the cast and crew about working backstage, he is just such
an important part of JT. JT is a totally different place
without Rayme and Tony, it will never be the same without
them.

7.

Kelsey Bradshaw

San Diego, CA

Both Tony and Rayme make Junior theater what is is: a

family. They do everything for every show and make each
kid feel special to a pert of it!

8.

Thomas
Reasoner

San Diego, CA

9.

Kaylee Thomas

lakeside, CA

10.

Robin Myrman

San diego, CA

Your kidding? How can the people that make JT be fired?

I'm very shocked. Because of the impact JT had on my
daughter I always thought if I ever won the lotto JT would
be top of my list and seeing Tony there and everything he
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Page 1

Signatures 1 - 10

Name

From

Comments

10.

Robin Myrman

San diego, CA

(continued from previous page)

11.

Maureen Horowitz San Diego, CA

I am Appalled that these 2 incredible , talented men were

let go . My daughter Sydney Rose has done many a show
with both these Gentlemen .. They are Pure Class and
total professionals .. All I can say is "What The Hell are you
Guys Doing ..!!!!

12.

Ruth Mellen

San Diego, CA

Hard to imagine JT without those two pillars of the

community . . .

13.

JASON MADDY

SAN DIEGO, CA

This is a serious injustice.

14.

Janet Jarrell

San Diego, CA

Two of the best! Bring them back!

15.

Nick Asaro

San Diego, CA

I have had the pleasure of being a student at JT and

seeing all of the good work and passion Rayme and Tony
put into every show. Please keep them in the staff so that
with their talents, current and future JT students can
receive that same sort of great experience and excellence
with their shows as I and many other alumni received each
and every time we worked with them.

16.

Maggie Cole

La Mesa, CA

17.

John Michel

Santee, CA

This was not only unexpected, but it's also a heresy and
illogical. Under Rayme and Tony, JT has witnessed a
performance renaissance like no other. Their leadership,
determination, and skillful management helped JT put on
some of the best youth theatre productions ever witnessed.
As an alumni who was part of multiple shows involving
these two, I have to say this is something that must be
rectified.
Not only have these two gentlemen produced several high
caliber shows, but they have brought in the performing
talent to be able to show them to the world. Not only that,
but the quality of shows thanks to their contribution rivals
that of professional shows.
So for JT to just throw these two out in the cold without any
explanation is something that is unacceptable. At the very
least an explanation should be issued for their sudden
dismissal, but I highly doubt that whatever they have done
warrants the kind of action that JT put upon them
For shame.

18.

Lara Nestor

Rancho Cucamonga,
CA

Bring them back. Just do the right thing.

19.

Fred Strack

San Diego, CA

This cannot stand and the Board must be held

accountable, the lack of transparency will destroy JT.

20.

Amy Shaffer

San Marcos, CA

21.

Jake Grover

Sabree, CA

22.

Zach Bunshaft

El Cajon, CA
Page 2

did for those kids was why and what my vision of JT is. So
disappointed

This is a load of barnacles...

-

Signatures 10 - 22

Name

From

Comments

23.

Tim West

San Diego, CA

The petition says they were given no reason for their

termination. Even if that is in your legal prerogative and
counsel, you must know it is particularly harmful to bear
dismissal in the world of theatre, where personal reputation
is so important. I believe it is in your respected
organization's best interest in the community to provide
some minimal explanation to the parties involved, if
(understandably) not the general public.

24.

Patrick Gates

Spring Valley, CA

25.

Mia Bane

Beaverton, OR

I worked with Tony for fifteen years at SDJT. As a designer

of both lighting and scenery for many productions, Tonys
support was invaluable. He made the experience a
pleasure b

26.

Christina Hills
Brown

San Diego, CA

Bring them back!!

27.

Melissa
Fernandes

San Diego, CA

We pride ourselves in San Diego on being a tight theatre

community- a family. This will end up hurting your bottom
line and reputation. Any trust our family had is gone. They
are owed at the very least, an explanation.

28.

Heather Tollefson

Chula Vista, CA

This is an absolute outrage! My daughter has been with JT

for several years and has had the opportunity to be
involved in several shows with both of these gentlemen.
The students see how much they put in to every show.
Some of the shows have rivalled Broadway level
performances. The kindness, patience, and
professionalism shown by Rayme and Tony set an
example for everyone who has ever dealt with them at
Junior Theatre. My daughter is absolutely devastated.

29.

Magenta Brown

San diego, CA

30.

Betsy Dunbar

San diego, CA

31.

Jan Gates

Spring Valley, CA

32.

Richard Mellen

San Diego, CA

33.

Bryant Hernandez San Diego, CA

They are true artists with huge hearts for the children! How
dare the board to rid these two with no understanding how
theatre works.

34.

Haley C

San Diego, CA

How can I even begin?.. I have been involved with SDJT

for MANY years! Tony and Rayme have not only been role
models to myself but MANY other students. I am an alumni
of SDJT and I am lucky to say I have had the pleasure of
working with these two men over the years, they both of
taught me so much about theatre and I am forever grateful
for them! JT will NOT be the same with out these two
wonderful men and it sadness me. So many people are
hurting from this!

35.

Alexis Park

San Diego, CA

36.

Elana Levinson

FOREST HILLS, NY
Page 3

Signatures 23 - 36

Name

From

Comments

37.

Kellen Gaughan

San diego, CA

38.

Patricia Park

San Diego, CA

If you cannot reconsider this decision, then and in addition

to, a reason has to be given ~ many have benefitted over
the years by their expertise and their building a lovely
theater community. Explanation, please.

39.

Eevie Perez

San Diego, CA

Rayme and Tony are the SOUL of JT. There is no Jt

without Rayme and I can say he is one of the best and
most supportive wonderful directors and people I have
ever met

40.

Francia Cohen

El Cajon, CA

Tony is Sdjt!!! He is the heart and soul. Rayme too

41.

Luis Sherlinee

San Diego, CA

42.

Dariane Wood

San Diego, CA

I've been a part of JT since was 6 years old and now I've
been working there. With out a doubt, it's been a second
home for me and Tony and Rayme were part of making it
feel like home, where everyone is accepted. I have the
best memories of this place all because of Tony Rayme.
They are the ones that are constantly in them. They were
and still are apart of changing kids lives; filling them with
an experience of a theatrical education, leadership skills
and the list goes on. I feel so heartbroken to hear about
this sad news. They are the central icons of the longest on
going youth theater company; that I can't imagine
someone else taking over their positions.

43.

Jordan Bunshaft

El Cajon, CA

I adore both Tony and Rayme and can't imagine JT without

them.

44.

Devon
Hollingsworth

La Mesa, CA

I respect, love, and admire these men and all they have
done for the children of San Diego Junior Theatre
throughout the years.

45.

Villafan Sofia Mai

San didgo, CA

Involves with junior theatre since 2003

46.

Whitney DeSpain

Carlsbad, CA

I hope the board is aware of the damage this is doing to

Junior Theatre's reputation. Tony has devoted his life to
that theatre and the children who go through the program.
Rayme has been completely committed to his students.
Firing them is absolutely unconscionable. If you do not
correct this mistake immediately, I fear for the future of
your organization. There are other options for youth theatre
in San Diego. Without Tony and Rayme, you will lose
students, their families and your supporters.

47.

Carolyn Miller

San Diego, CA

Tony and Rayme gave so much to JT. My daughter spent

many years at JT. Tony was an amazing mentor and
teacher. Catherine loved crewing shows because she got
to work with Tony. Please reconsider your decision.

48.

Megan Goldfarb

San Diego, CA

49.

Linda Maddy

San Jose, CA

50.

Jeff Rabine

Chula Vista, CA
Page 4

Truly sad day!

-

Signatures 37 - 50

Name

From

Comments

51.

Alicia Gonzalez

San Diego, CA

52.

Nicole Gustafson

San Diego, CA

53.

Amy S.

San Diego, CA

54.

Madison C

san diego, CA

56.

Noah Mullins

Leonay, Australia

57.

Emma W

San Diego, CA

58.

Connor Marsh

Oceanside, CA

59.

Devon B

San Diego, CA

60.

Jody Beene

West end, NC

61.

Zena Gallouzi

San Diego, CA

62.

I carol Kedziora

San diego, CA

63.

angie ringer

la mesa, CA

My son was involved in JT for many years and his

experiences were a huge part of his childhood. My
daughters were also involved in several productions. Tony
was always admired for being professional, creative,
talented, and clearly the backbone of JT. His passion
couldn't have been more obvious and his devotion allowed
the kids to experience incredible production value in a
youth setting. I can't tell you how many times I've heard
people say that "Tony is the bread and butter of JT".
Recently, they even had a barbeque to celebrate his 20
plus years of service. It was clear that Rayme was
completely devoted to his position and nurturing a love of
theatre with the kids. The way these 2 devoted men have
been treated is deplorable. It has been posted on social
media that they were "escorted out of the building". JT
taking the position of not providing explanation is
damaging their reputation as, people are speculating.
There is clearly something the Executive Director and/or
Board doesn't want us to know. Not only have 2 deserving
and committed men lost their jobs, but the students,
families, and alumni of San Diego Junior Theatre who
considered the organization and it's leaders part of their
extended family have been treated with no respect. I hope
these 2 gentleman find restitution somehow. Disgraceful.

I am uncomfortable rushing to judgement without all of the

information but I cannot fathom what two amazing men like
Rayme and Tony could have done to deserve this
treatment. They both went out of their way to make
students feel safe and, like many are saying in these
comments, truly represented the passion of JT. I see this
as a large mistake and wish we could have some insight
into this seemingly rash decision. They will both be greatly
missed around the Casa del Prado.

I am signing this petition for Tony only. I will forever be

grateful for his influence on all 4 of the Ringer children
during the past 15 yrs! thank you tony for being the person
that you are. And giving all of them equal opportunity to
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Signatures 51 - 63

Name

From

Comments

63.

angie ringer

la mesa, CA

(continued from previous page)

64.

Ellie Kinsey

Wilmington, NC

65.

Madeleine Barker

Coronado, CA

66.

debra rodebaugh

Santee, CA

67.

Lou Rasse

San Diego, CA

68.

Ruby Ross

San Diego, CA

69.

Shamus Brown

San Diego, CA

70.

Pierre Cozic

San Diego, CA

71.

Sebastian Mellen

San Diego, CA

Both Tony and Rayme have made an amazing impact on

my life, and are wonderful, caring people. They have built
JT into a wonderful, safe space for all looking to express
themselves through theatre. They are both amazing people
and are instrumental to JT! The organization will crumble
without them. Please reconsider!

72.

Melissa Wood

San Diego, CA

Two amazing professionals with a heart for children and

theater. It's absolutely unacceptable.

73.

Juell Solaegui

San Diego, CA

You are losing wonderful people, and so is every

supporter, parent and junior theatre student/artist.

74.

Vincent Pasquill

San Diego, CA

I've been growing more and more distant from Junior

Theatre since graduating, in large part due to the many
changes and questionable decisions made since I left. This
latest action is just a confirmation that Junior Theatre is
heading in a direction I do not and cannot support.

75.

Dakota Ringer

La Mesa, CA

I cant believe I even have to sign this...

76.

Benjamin Shaffer

New york, NY

77.

Alyssa Slagle

El Cajon, CA

78.

Debby Slagle

BULLHEAD CITY, AZ

79.

Shelby Myrman

San diego, CA

80.

Katie Armstrong

Roxbury crossing, MA Without Tony and Rayme JT will fall a part.

81.

Sarah Kaplan

San Diego, CA

82.

Jade Moujaes

San Diego, CA

Without Tony JT is nothing

83.

Emily Boyle

Coronado, CA

My daughter has been involved with Junior Theatre for

over 5 years. It has become central to her growth as a
performer and as a human being. Rayme directed three of
the five shows she performed in, and we have always been
impressed with his kindness, spirit, enthusiasm, and
genuine love for his work. Rayme and Tony ARE Junior
Theatre; without them, I am not sure we belong there
anymore. It is a great sadness, and completely

shine, the chance to learn skills that they can and are
taking with them into their adult lives. Your a miracle. you
are the heart of JT

Too many comments. This is absurd.

Pls

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Signatures 63 - 83

Name

From

Comments

83.

Emily Boyle

Coronado, CA

(continued from previous page)

84.

Sharon Cole

San Diego, CA

Both Tony and Rayme have made such an impact on my

daughter. They both taught her to be passionate and
professional while she continues her education as a
theatre major at UCSD.
SDJT will never be the same without Tony and Rayme.
The children admire & respect them, they have shown true
leadership.

85.

January
Armstrong

San Diego, CA

Tony is an incredible person, and very hard worker! he

puts his all in what he does and have known him since
1998 he is the root of junior theatre and deserves a lot
more than this. I hope he gets this job back he made a
huge impact is all of our lives

86.

Ashlea Lograsso

San Diego, CA

Tony is amazing! I met him way back in 1997 and he was

always professional and great with us kids. He's talented
and loyal to JT. I expected Tony would retire from JT at a
ripe old age and be celebrated for all his hard work. I hope
he gets his job back!
Ashlea Armstrong-Lograsso

87.

Michael
Armstrong

San Diego, CA

My daughter Katie, whos is a JT Alum and I were truly

shocked and disappointed upon hearing that SDJT had
terminated the employment of Tony and Rayme. These
two gentlemen are extremely talented and dedicated
professionals who inspired our kids. I would request that
you seriously reconsider your decision.

88.

Alex Dunbar

San Diego, CA

I did Junior Theatre at the age of 9, and Tony was the most
passionate techie I've ever met, He taught lights, sound,
and patience, He deserves to stay and continue his work

89.

Anna Strickland

San Diego, CA

90.

ELise Hall

Lakeside, CA

91.

Brett Atchison

Sd, CA

92.

Phillip Magin

Del Mar, CA

93.

Sandra Ruiz

Lemon Grove, CA

94.

Nicole Elledge

San Diego, CA

95.

Deb Adir

EDINA, MN

Page 7

incomprehensible, especially with the secretive posture the

organization is taking. A tragic loss.

I was in Junior theatre for about 2 years elementary

school. I remember these 2 wonderfully talented men
teaching me how to act in this wonderful program junior
theatre. They left a great impact on me and everyone else
in junior theatre.

Rayme and Tony are both amazing educators and artists.

They made my experience at JT so special. JT will not be
the same without them.

Signatures 83 - 95

Name

From

Comments

96.

Greg Hasson

San Diego, CA

As a pit orchestra musician for about ten JT productions

and four Spring Swing shows I hold Rayme and Tony in
high regard. They show great professionalism, dedication
and passion for musical theater and working with young
people and are clearly loved by the cast, crew and JT
community as a whole.

97.

Kelly Scheurer

Coronado, CA

98.

Linda Turner

San Diego, CA

SDJT Board of Directors--My feeling is this is a bottom line

decision. Tony and Rayme have not only brought their
exceptional talent to the JT stage but have given children
the opportunity to find a safe place to be themselves,
develop the confidence so many youth are lacking and
helped them find and develop their passion for the arts.
This kind of care and dedication needs to be rewarded not
dismissed. Truthfully, I don't want Tony & Rayme to be
rehired by JT because dear SDJT board of directors, you
don't deserve them. Tony and Rayme deserve so much
better. This abrupt and unexplained dismissal may be
leaving them without references. I feel their artistic
accomplishments speak for themselves, but I'm ready and
quite willing to write each of them a letter of reference.
Something much better is waiting for them and their fans
will follow. Hopefully a more insightful theatre company
and board of directors will value what these amazing men
have to offer and compensate them accordingly. Break a
Leg Gentlemen.

99.

Carrin Edwards

La Mesa, CA

He's amazing and does wonderful work with kids and the
community.

100.

Ed Hollingsworth

La Mesa, CA

I first worked with Tony professionally in 1981. I have

known him longer than I have known my wife. He is an
honorable man, dedicated to the kids of Junior Theatre. I
have been in awe of Rayme's talents for years. Both a
proven assets to Junior Theatre. I do not understand their
dismissal.

101.

Rebecca K

Seattle, WA

I was a junior theater kid from 98'-2009. I decided based

on my years at JT to pursue a HS with a theater program,
and later a undergrad degree in Technical theater design
from Emerson. - ALL of that would not have possible
without Tony. He saw me thru both programs, and
welcomed me back to help with several productions post
grad. I will always be grateful for the care, support , and
guidance he has shown me and the community over the
last 20-25yrs of service to SDJT & The Theater community
of San Diego. It's a sad day when JT loses the very thing
that makes it great.

102.

Fatima Pimienta

San diego, CA

Page 8

Signatures 96 - 102

Name

From

Comments

103.

Jenna D

San Diego, CA

I grew up at Junior Theatre and my experience and love for

theatre were shaped by both Tony and Rayme. I have
always felt that the fantastic production quality that Tony
provided--without fail--for every show at hand and Rayme's
passion for creating a safe and welcoming environment for
every child involved is what made JT stand out from the
rest. JT will not be the same without these two talented
and insightful men. It's a shame that all that they have to
teach will not reach so many more young artists through
this decision. I wish them the best and I hope that they will
at least receive the closure they deserve.

104.

Michelle Brice

San Diego, CA

105.

Marissa
Moorhead

Santa Cruz, CA

106.

Avery Henderson

Oceanside, CA

I had the joy and privilege of working with Rayme when I

was a kid 12 years ago. I still remember the lessons he
taught me and the love and care he showed to his work
and each and every student.

107.

Lucy Larom

San Diego, CA

And we need an explanation for this action!

108.

Marian H

La Mesa, CA

I have the utmost respect for Tony and all he has done for
Junior Theatre over the years. He has guided thousands of
children through shows, having comforted the tears of
disappointment and participated in the triumphant
moments. His patience appears to be unending. As a
craftsman, he constantly amazes the parents and children
alike with the intricacy and creativity of his sets. I have total
confidence in Tony's integrity. Not having Tony to guide
the children will be a devastating loss to San Diego Junior
Theatre. As for Rayme, he is the consummate professional
both as a musician and a director. He is a fine example to
the children of Junior Theatre, not only for his abilities, but
for his integrity and honesty as well. I sincerely hope the
board at SDJT reconsiders its decision to dismiss these
valued artists and teachers.

109.

DR

Fredericton, Canada

I love both Rayme and Tony. They are amazing people.

Without them JT will go down the tubes, and I strongly
believe that SDJT will soon no longer exist. I hope that
Rayme and Tony are able to go on and do greater things,
with companies that honor them more.

110.

Johnny Nilsen

Coronado, CA

We consider JT to be akin to a family -- that has always

been it's greatest appeal. To lose two key family members
so suddenly, without explanation or consultation, is
extremely upsetting. JT is not merely the board. JT
consists of all who who participate (past and present) -especially the kids. Who speaks for them in matters such
as this? We all know that they are crazy about Rayme and
Tony. They deserve a voice when it comes to a decision as
dramatic as this one.

Page 9

Signatures 103 - 110

Name

From

Comments

111.

Melina Bradley

San diwgo, CA

112.

Lupe Paniagua

San Diego, CA

113.

anonymous
anonymous

San Diego, CA

The current management at SDJT should be ashamed.

114.

Jill Perez

San Diego, CA

These two amazing dedicated hard working professionals

had all the heart at this organization, the talent, the work
ethic and the little be of all the performers. What a huge
misstep.

115.

Matjaz Bratus

Ljubljana, Slovenia

116.

Clare Parme

San Diego, CA

117.

ERIKA SOMLAI

BUDAPEST, Hungary

118.

Karen Kennedy

ASHEVILLE, NC

119.

Debra Connolly

TOMS RIVER, NJ

120.

Lori Morse

Venezia, Italy

121.

Lauren Green

New York, NY

122.

Casiha Felt

Marietta, OH

123.

Julia Ramsey

San Diego, CA

124.

Lani Kian

SAN DIEGO, CA

125.

Zoe N

Coronado, CA

126.

Kristin Larson

Des moines, IA

127.

Megan Decker

Lakeside, CA

128.

Michelle/Peter
Huggins/Dunbar

Santa Ysabel, CA

129.

Audrey Hannah

Los Angeles, CA

130.

Leonor Franks

San Diego, CA

131.

Audrey Atwater

San Diego, CA

132.

Blake Faris

San Diego, CA

133.

Amy Echols
Starkey

San Diego, CA

Page 10

My sympathies to Tony and Rayme and all affected by this

sudden news. Not knowing the circumstances, I can only
add that both have always provided a safe and quality
environment for the young artists at JT. While the general
public may not be entitled to the information, I hope the
Board of JT is able to provide Tony and Rayme information
on what has occurred. Any arts organization would be
fortunate to have these individuals on board.

As a former colleague of Tony and Rayme, I'm astounded

to learn they're no longer with San Diego Junior Theatre.
I've admired and respected their work for many years and
can't imagine what prompted their simultaneous departure
from the organization.

These two amazing individuals embody what junior theatre

is all about and I truly hope this can be remedied as soon
as possible!!

Signatures 111 - 133

Name

From

Comments

134.

Nicole Wood

San Diego, CA

We need them back they are amazong people and care

strongly for the theatre, please bring them back.

135.

Lian Gilor

San Diego, CA

Bring back these amazing kind people! We all love them

and need them back!

136.

Julie Inserra

Chula vista, CA

137.

Helena Woods

New york, NY

138.

Julia Starkey

San Diego, CA

139.

Penny Bacon

Didsbury, Canada

140.

Hailee Zinn

SAN Diego, CA

141.

Rick Semmens

Asheville, NC

143.

ryan tollefson

chula vista, CA

145.

Camille
Fundingsland

San diego, CA

146.

Alana Fineman

Tacoma, WA

147.

Dennis Dizon

Chula Vista, CA

148.

Angel
Perez-Pippins

San Diego, CA

149.

Alicia Vicars

San Diego, CA

150.

Luke Benning

La Mesa, CA

151.

Summer Kocher

San Diego, CA

152.

Jim Gates

Spring Valley, CA

153.

Lexi Blake

Chula Vista, CA

Rayme and Tony are really great role models, and they're
really nice.

154.

Brian Gabriel

San Diego, CA

For the past 4 years these two people have left deep
impacts and great memories from little mermaid all the way
to now.. I'd hate to see them leave JT and I just want them
to know they are very special to me.

155.

name not
displayed

Waterbury, CT

There is no way this will be any sort of "smooth transition".

You cannot fire the two men who contribute the most to the
establishment or the shows, with no explanation. Very
disturbing.

156.

Marc Cohen

El Cajon, CA

157.

Casey PJ

San Diego, CA

158.

Tami Schmidt

North Hollywood, CA

159.

Mackenzie Wrap

Foothill Ranch, CA

Page 11

Rayme and Tony have been a huge part of my life at JT,

as well as so many others. It truly would be terrible to see
them go, for both the organization and the students they
have impacted.

San Diego deserves to have the BEST!!

Rayme and Tony are one of the major reasons I went to

Junior Theatre

I personally feel that JT needs Rayme and Tony. It is a

horrible loss. I really hope that Rayme and Tony get hired
again. It really disappoints me to see them get fired/layed
off, they are great human beings and they made JT extra
fun for me.
-

Signatures 134 - 159

Name

From

Comments

160.

Gabe Starkey

San Diego, CA

161.

Adam C.

Altadena, CA

162.

Allison Parra

Poway, CA

They are way to important to everyone and me and they

worked so hard and they always put on amazing shows

163.

Mitch Jenkins

San Diego, CA

Tony C is one of the finest human beings in the city it is

unconscionable that he has been let go.

164.

Cecilia
Harchegani

China vista, CA

165.

Talia Berkstein

Orange, CA

166.

Gianna M

San Diego, CA

167.

Marlene Paradee

St Andrews, United
Kingdom

168.

Jackee Bianchi

San Diego, CA

169.

Emily Morrison

Washington, DC

170.

Sofia Garcia

San diego, CA

171.

Phoenix Webb

San Diego, CA

No one should be fired without cause!

172.

Mary Adsit

San Diego, CA

We MUST work together to make this happen. Justice is

everything!

173.

Gregory Martin

San Diego, CA

I have not had much of a chance to work with Ramye, but

from what I have seen he has brought together not only
individual casts but all of the jt kids. He is energetic and fun
and everyone loves him. Tony, on the other hand, I have
worked with quite a bit. As a young kid in my first show,
Cats back in 2008, he was the adult figure we all looked up

It is so hard for me to make a decision based on what little

information I have, but this just seems so unreal. Junior
Theatre has always been an inspiration to me and I have
been deeply impacted by everyone involved. I have
worked with both Tony and Rayme many times and all they
wanted was for me to succeed. They helped me be a part
of something so amazing I couldn't even dream for
anything better. These men made theatre my life and safe
place. I can't imagine what this organization will be like
without them and I can't believe that future students may
never gain the wonderful teachings of these two
inspirational, hardworking men. I hope only the best for
Tony and Rayme and I am heartbroken to see them go.

I have great respect for both these amazingly talented

artists. After growing up at Junior Theatre with Tony as the
most reliable and dedicated production manager anyone
could ask for, I am shocked to hear that anyone would be
unsatisfied with him in any way. Tony built the most
incredible sets, show after show, and was always there to
help in whatever way possible. There is no JT without
Tony. I also worked with Rayme as my musical director,
and he was a joy to work with. To say I'm disappointed
with this decision would be an inderstatement.

(continues on next page)

Page 12

Signatures 160 - 173

Name

From

Comments

173.

Gregory Martin

San Diego, CA

(continued from previous page)

174.

Crystal Solsbak

Lakeside, CA

175.

Mike C.

Coronado, CA

Without a proper explanation for this action, the Junior

Theatre Board of Trustees does nothing but tarnish the
wonderful reputation of these men and San Diego Junior
Theatre in general. Honesty is always the best policy,
regardless of the circumstances/legalities, primarily
because speculation has the potential to do more harm
than good. Perhaps we, as the parents and students of
Junior Theatre should boycott all future classes and shows
until a reasonable explanation is proferred/the board is
held accountable for its actions. To deprive two wonderful
men of their livelihoods, after so many years of dedication
to the organization, is unconscionable without a legitimate
explanation.

176.

Francesca
D'Amico

San Diego, CA

They have both been amazing coaches and helpers for me

and probably many other students. I would love to have
them back.

177.

Kayla Solsbak

Lakeside, CA

178.

Kelly Tate

Las Vegas, NV

179.

Kate J.

Boston, MA

180.

Phillip Bowen

Los Angeles, CA

181.

Cheryl Cole

La Mesa, CA

182.

Aminah Al-Jaber

Washington, DC

Page 13

to, and provided a safety net for us all when we had any
problems or worries. He also managed to make two
gigantic piles of trash to be a sturdy set for us to jump and
climb all over, a truly amazing feat. Having seen many
different set builders Tony builds some of the highest
quality and most functional sets I have ever seen. They are
easily professional grade and having that environment on a
childrens theater stage is what help creates the
professional theater jt is known for. Firing these two people
without explanation is not only cruel, but also taking a large
chunk out of the foundation of what jt was built from and
why it has had the success it has had.

I've been attending JT camps & performing in shows with

Tony's designs and expertise since I was 11 years old. I
also worked as an aid for camps for 6 years, and was the
President of Confetti with Rayme as my advisor. I have
nothing but wonderful things to say about the character
and talent of both of these men. JT is losing such an
integral part of its organization. Sending Rayme & Tony so
much love and hoping that there is transparency, if not
reconsideration of this harsh decision.

Signatures 173 - 182

Name

From

Comments

183.

Kiefer Shackelford Los Angeles, CA

184.

Shelby Pinckard

Honolulu, HI

185.

April Kaneaster

San Diego, CA

186.

DeeAnn Jamison

El Cajon, CA

187.

Kami Goldstein

San Diego, CA

188.

Elena Trueba

Coronado, CA

189.

Kelly Taylor

El Cajon, CA

190.

Charly
Montgomery

San Diego, CA

191.

Sophia Oberg

San Diego, CA

192.

LaVon W

San Diego, CA

Page 14

Tony is not only a wonderful educator but a man of great

integrity. I appreciate the hours he put in for the students,
particularly those when nobody was around. How a man
who was often the first to arrive and last to leave the
theater was terminated is beyond me. Tony's legacy as an
educator at JT is nearly unrivaled and he deserved to
leave on his own terms. We were so lucky to have him. He
will be sorely missed!

Why?

Tony and Rayme represent the heart and soul of Junior

Theatre with their hard work, dedication, and love for the
students.

Signatures 183 - 192