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The Ripe & Ready cast is a diverse group of individuals in their 60s, 70s and 80s; African-Americans, Asians, and Caucasians; rural and city dwellers; former executives and domestic workers. Although only two of the members had any previous acting experience, getting them up to speed was no problem. Says Carter: "Older people take more risks. They enjoy getting up in front of large audiences -- they're through worrying about what people think." And what do people think? Standing ovations say it all.
ABOUT THE DIRECTOR
Founder of the Ripe & Ready Players, SUZANNE DYSLIN CARTER completed graduate studies at the College Conservatory of Music in Cincinnati, Ohio. Suzanne studied and performed opera, musical theatre and jazz for ten years in New York City and Europe. During this time she also taught in inner city schools in New York City where she turned her classes into little shows to focus the attention and channel the energy of her students in creative directions. Later she taught singing and musical theatre and served as musical director for many productions at Vancouver City College. She is now part of the theatre faculty at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. There she is a teacher, musical director and composer who has written original music for several major productions. Ms. Carter continues to perform locally as a jazz singer.
ABOUT THE CAST
 BOBBIE BROOKS CROW is known fondly as "The Hat" among the members. After 18 years of studying, she graduated several years ago with a B.A. in Art at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. She is now working on a degree in Anthropology. A well known local artist and sculptor, she also makes wine, sings in her church choir, and volunteers at community events. She says, "Being in R&R is like a theatre course at the University. I have learned so much. Improvisation is the operative word here. "
 LADD DURYEA has performed at Chattanooga Theatre Center, Barking Legs Theatre, Theatre-Sanwiched-In, and Springboard Productions. Prior to retirement he was Vice President of Human Resources for Constar International. "I welcome the invitation to participate in R&R to develop new skills and abilities in entertaining people."
ANDRES ALISAGO is a retired physician and a new member of the troupe. Andres is an avid photographer and ballroom dancer, as well as a member of the Scenic City Chorale. He is loved for his great big smile and is a fine addition to the group.
 HILDA ALISAGO is a retired physician and is originally from the Philippines. She sings in her church choir and the Scenic City Chorale and has really taken to acting with the Players. "I enjoy performing to live audiences, making them laugh. Growing old is a blast", says Hilda.
 CARL BENNETT
Looking every bit the part of the distinguished actor, Carl has been acting, singing, and dancing for over 40 years. He has been with the Players since 2000 and "loves every minute of it"! Carl also helps recruit for the Players and handles some of the business details.
 EMMA BUSH
 IZOLA HUMPHREY
 JANE SOUTHERLAND
Beloved by her students, Jane retired after 30 years of teaching elementary school. She sings with the Scenic City Chorale and her church choir. She has been with the Players since 2002 and "loves developing as a character actor".
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