Behind the Rehearsal Scenes

"It's a Wonderful Life" -A Musical: Rehearsal Fall 2012

It has been such a pleasure to watch this cast come together over the past few weeks....I have been sneaking into rehearsal and taking footage for your viewing pleasure.

The night before last the CVFT Orchestra joined in the fun....there is just something about adding them into the mix.  Tomorrow night is dress rehearsal -can't wait to see that. In the meantime - here is the sneak peak.
As always....Get Your Tickets Here


Jibs
CVFT Insider

Leading Man - "It's a Wonderful Life" A Musical

Joel Peterson as George Bailey

Joel studies at St. Olaf College in Northfield (class of '13!)

and is a Chaska Senior High School Graduate

Role: George Bailey

Started in the theatre: 16

Age: 22

City: Chaska

CVFT: Please tell us how it all started. Your theater life that is.
Joel: "I knew theater was for me when I learned sports were not for me. No, but in all seriousness, I've always enjoyed singing, and my friends and family have considered me somewhat of a performer, so theater seemed a logical next step. I started in my sophomore year of High School and I haven't looked back, except right now, for the sake of this blog."

CVFT: Why Chaska Valley Family Theater?

Joel: "I continue to audition for and participate in shows at CVFT not only for the increasing quality they bring professionally, but for the camaraderie and friendliness of everyone involved. Doing "community theater" right is actually not as easy as it sounds, and I think CVFT has struck the perfect balance between taking the art of theater "seriously" and making sure anyone who is interested gets their fair chance at the authentic stage experience." 

CVFT: Your thoughts on your character and the show?

Joel: "As George Bailey, I really enjoy trying to capture his shifting mood as he descends into abject depression and desperation. It's a challenge, but one I find extremely rewarding to try to master. Collectively, I think the brisk pace of the show, combined with the upbeat and lively chorus numbers make "It's a Wonderful Life" light and enjoyable, even when dealing with some pretty heavy subject matter. Our cast does such a great job of bringing Bedford Falls to life.

CVFT: Any pre-show rituals?

Joel: "My pre-show rituals, as anyone who has seen me can tell you, basically consist of a lot of pacing and seemingly random sips of water. I wish there was more method to my madness, but sadly it isn't so. I do, however, enjoy getting to the theater very early on performance dates, simply to be able to have a moment of calm before the storm."

CVFT: Has your family been a part of your CVFT experience?

Joel: "There is no "F" in my personal CVFT. The only memorable experience in theater with family I've had is in Tom Sawyer (also done by CVFT). My dad was brought in as a last-minute character to portray someone called "Mr. Dobbins". Having no theater experience, he outdid himself. I remember him rushing on to stage, excitedly delivering his line: "Mr. Dobbins! Mr. Dobbins! Come quick! We need a coroner! There's been a MURDER!" Definitely a highlight for me.

CVFT: Any other fun behind the scenes tid bits you care to share? 

Joel: "I've had to sit out of dance rehearsals for a variety of reasons, and so I've left my talented better half alone on stage for all of the partner dancing. She's done a great job of learning all of the steps without me (perhaps excluding the trust fall). If, on opening night, while we are dancing together, you say to yourself "Wow, she is so effortless in those dance steps - it's like he's not even there!" ...there is a reason for that." 

Thanks so much, Joel. We caught of glimpse of you at rehearsal last night - "wow", said all. Your voice is amazing - as is the rest of the cast. Goosebumps two weeks out!? That's a first for me. Counting down the days until open....to get your tix please check us out here.

Jibs
CVFT Insider

Meet our Leading Lady!- "It's a Wonderful Life"-The Musical

Nikki Allen as Mary Hatch Bailey

Nikki studied at the University of Minnesota - vocal performance

Role: Mary Hatch Bailey
Started in the theatre: 6th grade
Age: 27
City: Edina
Day Job: Usset, Weingarden, and Liebo PPLP

Nikki Allen brings her vocal talent to the stage as Mary Hatch Bailey in CVFT's holiday show - "It's a Wonderful Life" A Musical. According to my sources at IMDb, Nikki's character is "...one of the most famous female characters in movie history." http://www.imdb.com/character/ch0004663/bio 

"Mary is bubbly, smart, deeply goodhearted, and not without a clever streak. Though she is in most ways the definition of a proper lady, she has a lighthearted spirit and occasionally enjoys being shocking."


Needless to say -can't wait to see this! Here's a behind the scenes look at our leading lady:

1. When did you know theater was for you? 

"My Grandpa was a very talented performer.  I remember attending his plays and musicals when I was really little.  Theater was a combination of my favorite things! Singing, dancing, costumes, makeup - I was hooked!  My first play was in sixth grade.  It was called "Commercials" and I was a cereal box.  I still have my costume."

2. Pls tell us something you have learned from your experience with CVFT.

"I have been singing most of my life, but since my involvement with CVFT, I am now comfortable in my dancing shoes!  CVFT is so fortunate to have such a talented and patient group of choreographers." 

3. What is your favorite thing about the show/what you think people will enjoy most...

"Most people have probably seen the movie but I imagine very few are familiar with the musical.  This show is FILLED with gorgeous music.  The audience will get to experience It's a Wonderful Life in a whole new way.  The music is a wonderful addition to a wonderful story. "

4. Any pre-show rituals before you go on stage?

"Before a performance, I usually try to keep my talking to a minimum and eat a banana (something my high school voice teacher suggested).  Right before I go on stage, you can usually find me pacing in the wings!"

5. Do you have family participating in the show?

"Everyone is coming to see it, and my mom is helping with costumes!"

6. Any behind the scenes antics you can share?

"Before we had a phone for the phone scene, we had to use a Barbie doll. That might explain why we have a hard time keeping a straight face during that scene."

Thanks, Nikki and break a leg! 
Also, just so you know - I spoke with the Producer of this show last night and it looks like opening night (November 30th) might sell out - other shows are filling up too. If you are thinking of joining us, please get your tickets - www.cvft.org/tickets

Jibs
CVFT Insider

Music Man Cast List

Hello,

We want to thank you for auditioning for The Music Man last week. The casting process is a difficult one, especially with as much talent as we have in the area. You provided an enjoyable challenge for myself and the production staff, and should be proud of your efforts.

The unfortunate side to casting a show is that we can not accommodate all who auditioned. But there are more ways to help out CVFT than performing. We are in constant need of set builders, costume sewers, concession sellers; the list goes on. If you do not find yourself on this cast list, please consider volunteering your time through one of these avenues. Contact our producer, Heather Brands, if you are interested ( heatherbrands@q.com ) 

I would also encourage you to audition for our upcoming show, Seussical. Audition dates are January 2nd and 3rd. More information can be found at www.cvft.org 

For questions, clarifications, or to decline a role, please email me at horgangj@gmail.com 

This cast list is also available to view at chaskavalleyfamilytheatre.blogspot.com/

Now, without further ado, I present The Music Man cast. This list 

• • • PLEASE READ THROUGH THE ENTIRE CAST LIST, AS YOUR NAME MAY APPEAR MULTIPLE TIMES. • • •

Harold Hill: Tom Keenan

Marian Paroo: Marina Jurica-Preston

Marcellus Washburn: Bill Coldwell

Winthrop Paroo: Ben Gunderson

Mrs. Paroo: Gillian Barrow

Mayor Shinn: Todd Preston

Eulalie MacKecknie Shinn: Martha Keenan

The School Board Quartet

— Jacey Squires: Austin Gumbiner

— Ewart Dunlop: Joel Peterson

— Oliver Hix: Mark Taintor

— Olin Britt: Dan Nelson

Tommy Djilas: Kyle Szarzynski

Zaneeta Shinn: Jessica Schue

The Pick-a-Little Ladies

— Alma Hix: Ginny Fogg

— Gladys Squires: Jennifer Boothroyd

— Maud Dunlop: Robyn Chargo

— Ethel Toffelmier: Jennifer Sopoci-Hardin

Amaryllis: Claire Shinners

Charlie Cowell: Clayt Beitel

Gracie Shinn: Shannon Moore

Constable Locke: Tom Kocka

Train Conductor: Tom Rolloff

Farmer: Bob Thomas

Farmer's Wife: Carol Thomas

Adult Singers Ensemble

— Nikki Allen

— Tom Barnett

— Heather Beitel

— Jennifer Boothroyd

— Cassie Boothroyd

— Don Boothroyd

— Kris Causton

— Robyn Chargo

— Ginny Fogg

— Mindy Gallagher

— Austin Gumbiner

— Amanda Hansen

— Stacie Jensen

— Nancy Kizilos-Clift

— Tom Kocka

— Sherri Krueger

— Sara Loca

— Kristin Matthews

— Dan Nelson

— Joel Peterson

— Stefany Pratt

— Arne Rimmereide

— Kelly Rohde

— Tom Rolloff

— Kory Sawinski

— Jennifer Sopoci-Hardin

— Emily Staunton

— Michelle Stecker

— Emily Stern

— Katy Stromberg

— Elizabeth Studenski

— Wayne Studenski

— Kyle Szarzynski

— Mark Taintor

— Bob Thomas

— Carol Thomas

— Vicki Turner

— Andy Turner

— Mary Twite

— David Vandergriff

— Hannah Weinberg

Children Singing Ensemble

— Petra Causton

— Alyse Delorenzo

— Connor Eaton

— Jamie Kizilos-Clift

— Hunter Krueger

— Molly Maves

— Caroline Pernat

— William Pratt

— Wesley Quist

— Téa Sopoci-Hardin

— Rebecca Twite

— Nathan Wurst

— Callen Zemek

Pick-a-Little Ensemble

— Stacie Jensen

— Nancy Kizilos-Clift

— Stefany Pratt

— Kelly Rohde

— Carol Thomas

— Hannah Weinberg

Adult Dance Ensemble

— Nikki Allen

— Tom Barnett

— Cassie Boothroyd

— Holly Bryant

— Austin Gumbiner

— Stacie Jensen

— Sara Loca

— Joel Peterson

— Julie Peterson

— Kory Sawinski

— Kelly Schlepper

— Jessica Schue

— Jennifer Sopoci-Hardin

— Michelle Stecker

— Emily Stern

— Katy Stromberg

— Elizabeth Studenski

— Kyle Szarzynski

— Andy Turner

— David Vandergriff

— Hannah Weinberg

Children Dancers

— Maddie Kerlin

— Shannon Moore

Shipoopers (those indicated with a * are considered understudies for this section)

— Nikki Allen

— Tom Barnett

— Clayt Beitel

— Holly Bryant

— Bill Coldwell

— Austin Gumbiner

— Stacie Jensen*

— Tom Keenan

— Tom Kocka

— Sara Loca

— Joel Peterson

— Julie Peterson

— Marina Jurica-Preston

— Kory Sawinski

— Kelly Schlepper

— Jessica Schue

— Jennifer Sopoci-Hardin

— Richard Staunton*

— Michelle Stecker

— Emily Stern*

— Katy Stromberg

— Kyle Szarzynski

— Andy Turner

— David Vandergriff

— Hannah Weinberg

Boys Band

— Jacob Boothroyd

— Connor Eaton

— Ben Gunderson

— Owen Hasting

— Hunter Krueger

— Aidan Pratt

— William Pratt

— Wesley Quist

— Piers Rimmereide

— Kory Sawinski

— Tad Williamson

— Nathan Wurst

— Benett Zemek

— Callen Zemek

Again, thank you for your interest in Chaska Valley Family Theatre.

Sincerely,

Guthrie J. Horgan

Guthrie J. Horgan
(952) 649-9288
horgangj@gmail.com

Get to Know...Our Beloved Stage Managers

It's a Wonderful Life" Katie Spille & Lynn Olson

"Here at CVFT, we know we would not be anywhere without our beloved stage managers. As actors and actresses, we like the costumes and the singing and the antics but we're theatre people for goodness sake -we need organized leaders to focus our chaos. Not sure if our friends in the pit feel the same (they are pretty organized folk) but I do know they appreciate all the time and talent that comes from behind the curtain.

I have been lucky enough to work alongside the dynamic duo you are about to meet and let me tell you - this team has their act together. I recently went from being on stage to working for Katie "in the wings". She told me,  "you have crossed over to the dark side"and she was right.

I saw for myself what an amazing feat it is to not only get people where they should be (that includes a cast of 30+ kids sometimes!) but dress these people, move the right props and furniture at the right time -organize it all in the dark -then there is the curtain, "moving the wagons" (big set pieces on wheels), on and on. Needless to say, our shows would not be the high caliber you've all come to expect without this imperative component in the mix.

Without further ado, here are just a few fun facts to get to know "It's a Wonderful Life" Stage Manager Team Extraordinaire - Katie Spille (left) and Lynn Olson

Always hard at work. Here is the team early on in plotting and planning "It's a Wonderful Life" 10/12

Katie Spille, Co-Stage Manager – “It’s A Wonderful Life”

30-something from Chaska

1.) What is your story? Occupation, hobbies, accomplishments…please tell us.

Katie is an Auditor at InterplX Technologies. She also serves as Secretary of the Lions Club. Katie likes to read, watch movies, and possesses a vast wealth of pop culture knowledge.

2.) Why community theater...what does being a part CVFT mean to you? Why is it special?

“I was a theatre major and wanted to keep practicing on that. I like to do one show a year; the last couple of years it has been three a year. I came to CVFT after starting with Waconia and Norwood theatres, then came to CVFT because it was fun, found good friends. They keep asking me back."

3.) How does your family participate in the show? In it? Coming to see it?

"They will be coming to see it. They come for all my shows."

4.) Lessons CVFT has taught you? Or general theatrical tips you can share?

"I have learned how to fly (theatrical rigging system done with lines/ropes to move set pieces and people in and/or off the stage), how to push a life-sized Jeep, and done much more set building than ever before. I suggest learning something new from each person you work with."

5.) Trivia about the show you can let us in on...

"We have an excellent backstage crew who are ready to get to work."

Lynn Olson, Co-Stage Manager – “It’s A Wonderful Life”

Resident of Minnetonka

1.) What is your story? Occupation, hobbies, accomplishments?

Lynn is an Administrative Assistant for the City of Edina. She enjoys scrap booking and spending time at the cabin.

2.) Why community theater...what does being a part CVFT mean to you? Why is it special?

“I took my daughter Courtney to her first show when she was eight. She sat on the edge of her chair and afterward said, “I want to do that.” In search of that kind of outlet, we came across CVFT. After Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat in 2010, we realized what a great community it was and wanted to be an active part. What keeps us here is the whole aspect of

family, getting the family involved, treated as a big family by everyone else.”

3.) Lessons learned from CVFT? Or general theatrical tips you can share?

“I have never been a part of a theatre until CVFT. I have learned an incredible amount about the behind-the-scenes aspect, and especially a lot of about patience.”

Thanks, Lynn & Katie - good stuff.

We are rapidly moving towards tech weeks – and a little bird told me we are loading in this coming weekend. Boy, the time sure whips by this time of year – we will be at dress rehearsal before we know it! Please be sure to book your tix if you haven’t done so already. Director Bill Coldwell and Producer Dan Bergner have reported an increase in ticket sales over last year  - which quite possibly could mean selling out. Don’t miss out!  www.cvft.org

BEHIND THE SCENES..."It's a Wonderful Life"

We snuck into rehearsal last night to see preparations underway for CVFT's upcoming holiday family musical - "It's a Wonderful Life". By this time I should not be surprised at the quality of talent that CVFT attracts, but I am. Every time. 

Last night more than 60 talented people (of all ages, sizes, and flavors) were on hand to rehearse "Harry's Comin' Home"...a little song and dance ditty that is sure to lift all spirits high. Not sure how many times they have practiced this number but it is already good!  We left the rehearsal anxiously awaiting the next time we could watch. 

Thanks to all for allowing us see behind the scenes. We just bought our tix for opening night!

Looking for Pit Musicians for "It's a Wonderful Life"

Looking for Pit Musicians for "It's a Wonderful Life"
  The following instruments are needed: Alto Sax, Tenor Sax, Oboe/English Horn, Percussion, Strings.  If interested, please email Drew at andrew.hasty@isd47.org.  Thanks!

Cast List Posted!

Thanks to everyone who auditioned for “It’s a Wonderful Life.”  We appreciate your time and talent.

Out all-cast meeting is MONDAY OCTOBER 8^th starting at 6:30.  Details to follow.

Young George Bailey      George Mulder

Young Mary Hatch           Caroline Pernat

Young Sam                          Andrew Morton

Young Marty                      Piers Rimmeriede

Newsboy                             Callen Zemek

Zuzu Bailey                         Jane Kihne/Isabelle Erhart (shared performances)

Janie Bailey                         TBD

Pete Bailey                         William Pratt

Newsies Kids (Sing and dance featured part in “Harry’s Comin’ Home”):

Claire Shinners, Taler Mechtel, Hannah Seeman, Callen Zemek, Piers Rimmereide, Wesley Quist

Kids Chorus ( All listed above PLUS Sing in Prologue, Harry’s Comin Home, and finale – also will appear in misc townspeople scenes)

(Newsies Kids above plus the following): Owen Hasting, Clayton Mechtel, Dallin Pratt, Tad Williamson, Grace Arndt, Molly Maves, Katryn Rosenoff, Katie Marusich, Alyse DeLorenzo, Tea Spoaci Hardin, Elise Brown, Gianna Arthur, Stella Buselmier.

George Bailey                    Joel Peterson

Mary Hatch                         Nikki Allen

Sam Wainwright               Dobbs DeCorsey

Harry Bailey                        Guthrie Horgan

Henry Potter                      Mark Taintor

Peter Bailey                        Tom Keenan

Joseph, an angel              Bob Thomas

Clarence                              Ken Smith

Ernie                                      Tom Barnett

Bert                                       Dan Bergner

Mr Gower                           Ron Roeser

Ma Bailey                            Mari Beth Schulke

Uncle Billy                           John Matthews

Ruth Dakin Bailey             Tabitha Kerr

Violet Bick                           Bailey Murphy

Martini                                 Dan Witte

Adult Ensemble/Chorus Roles

Singing Trio                         (in “Harry’s Comin’ Home”):  Stefany Pratt, Robyn Chargo, Jennifer Sopoci Hardin

Mrs. Partridge                   Martha Keenan

Jane Wainwright              Anne Fleming

Randall                                 Mike Ellis

Tom                                       Reed Schulke

Reinemann                         Alan Kretzschmar

Ed                                           Arne Rimmeriede

Mrs. Hatch                          Cornell Ellison

Bank Teller                          Jenni Charrier

Mrs. Davis                           Jean Kretzschmar

Bank Deputy                      Jennifer Boothroyd

Mrs. Thompson                Stefany Pratt

Neighbors:                          Nancy Kizilos-Clift, Carol Thomas

Mrs Martini                        Robyn Chargo

Teen High School Dance/Chorus Roles (Also in Adult Ensemble if available)

Freddie                                Ryan Denker

Marty                                    Tristan Pratt

Sr Girls                                  Cassie Boothroyd, Ariel Crabtree, Jamie Kizilos-Clift

High school Dancers:      Kristen Matthews, Kayla Peters, Katlyn Powers, Lauryn Bolz, Katie Morton, Brandon Pratt, TJ Kegel

Get to Know Cinderella: Into the Woods

Hi, Gang!


I recently ran into Bethany Jackson who is playing the lovely Cinderella in the upcoming Chaska Valley Family Theater summer production of Into the Woods (btw -NOT to be missed). Bethany (below left) is new to the CVFT theater family but NOT to theater. She is a vocal performance major and theater minor at Northwestern College in St. Paul. This is the inside scoop...

Bethany Jackson/Cinderella at rehearsal (on left) 

with Anna Stauber/Little Red Riding Hood 

What does being a part CVFT mean to you? Why is it special?

Bethany/Cinderella: "I'm SO excited to FINALLY actually be in a CVFT show.... after years of seeing them, having friends involved, and hearing about it, I finally decided to audition and it has been somewhere between thirty and forty TIMES more fun than I thought it would be. This is an amazing group of people putting together a REALLY amazing, really challenging show.... there is something quite awesome and joy-filled about that, let me tell you."

Tell me about your character and what she would say about coming to the show.

Bethany/Cinderella:  "CInderella would say: "I just want everyone to be there! I want to see all my friends and make sure that everyone is included. If you don't come, my feelings might get hurt a little, but I guess I am used to it, so I probably won't yell at you....although I might complain sadly to my bird friends."

Other things we should know about you?
"I saw Chaska Valley Family Theater's Fiddler on the Roof 3 times because Ann Nelson was in it and I love her."

Any rehearsal funny stuff we should know about? 

"Oh, you know..... that one time when Dave Vandergriff was playing a female cow being milked for magic milk."

Dave/Milky White is see here (right) practicing with his arm crutches. I have seen him DANCE with those things...if I can get the video pulled together I will post. VERY impressive.

Show run is at the end of July - here is the link to reserve your seats... TIX

Hope to see you there! 


Jibs
CVFT, Behind the Scenes Gal

COOL (Free) SHOW this SATURDAY!

It's going to be a hot one this week....but we have something to cool you down. 

The Dragonfly Theater Arts Camp is performing "Off the Wall, the Mother Goose Mystery Musical" this Saturday, June 30th at the Chaska Community Center. Show times are at 1PM and 2:30 PM. Air conditioning is FREE and so are the performances!

The play, directed by the beloved, Charlie Title is a festive tale of well-known Mother Goose Characters. Just when you thought you knew their stories, all your favorites find themselves standing in a lineup, trying to sing and dance their way out of a sticky situation. A perfect afternoon delight for the kids and kids at heart. 

We hope to see you there!

*********

Dragonfly Theater Camp is a summertime must for kids, ages 8-13, who are interested in the theater. The week long camp is lead by Charlie Title and runs daily M-F 8 AM to 2 PM with performances on Saturday.  Due to popular demand, the camp will be offered twice this year. Next session is August 13 - 18, 2012.  All camps and performances are conveniently held at the Chaska Community Center.  For more information please visit us online at www.cvft.org/dragonfly.htm