Get to Know the Cast of "Music Man"...Martha Keenan and & Ben Gunderson

Cast of Characters for "The Music Man" Continues...

Martha Keenan as "Eulalie Mackechnie Shinn"

Martha Keenan and her husband, Tom Keenan (Harold Hill) started with CVFT in "Joseph" in 2003.  "Tom was doing photography for CVFT and came home and said "We have to get involved in a show there, it looks so fun", said Martha.

The duo has done "Joseph", "White Christmas", "It's a Wonderful Life", and now, "The Music Man". Tom was also in "Cinderella" as the King. The duo are dearly loved by all on and off the stage.  

The two met while performing in a singing and dancing group called Young Americans in 1982. They share the love of performing, making people happy and making people laugh. Martha said, "If  I can take their minds off the troubles in their lives for just a little while i feel great- CVFT has been a place that balances great talent and superior shows with fun and lasting relationships, no envy or competition , just a family feel and the satisfaction of putting on quality uplifting shows." 

Today is the final performance for "The Music Man" on the Chanhassen High School stage. There are tickets but not many -so please call the box office if you plan on attending what is being called, "the best CVFT performance I've ever seen!"...952-250-7206.

'"The Music Man" also features one of our younger members, Ben Gunderson as Winthrop Paroo. Ben is a wonderful addition to the CVFT family. His mom and dad have also played a huge supporting role behind the scenes in making the show a success.

Ben is a Chaska Middle School West 7th Grader who started in "The Music Man " in July 2010 as a chorus member. He has also played Randolph Mcafee in "Bye Bye Birdie" in 2011, and was a horse in CVFT's "Cinderella" as well as a Thief in "Oliver!" 2012.

When asked why theater, Ben said, "LOVE LOVE LOVE IT!! Love to perform live!". Ben also thinks CVFT is "The BEST organization ever!  Best productions! Best Directors! Best EVERYTHING!!!".

Ben has also performed alongside his sister, Leah, who joined him on the "Cinderella" stage. Ben sys, CVFT is also like a family to him filled with wonderful people, talented people and great fun productions. 

Ben alongside Claire Shinners who plays Amaryllis in "The Music Man"

Thanks to all cast and crew for a wonderful production. We are looking forward to the final show today at 2:00 PM. Please join us if you can. www.cvft.org or 952-2500-7206.

Jibs

CVFT Insider and Musical Theater Lover