Synopsis from MTI

The Storytellers introduce the Kingdom of Arendelle, where Townspeople and the royal family – Queen Iduna, King Agnarr, Young Elsa, and Young Anna – celebrate summer (“Let the Sun Shine On”). As the princesses play, Young Anna convinces Young Elsa to use her magical powers to create ice and snow, but Queen Iduna reminds them that magic must stay secret.

Later that evening, the sisters create a magical toy snowman named Olaf (“A Little Bit of You”). As their games grow more adventurous, the Snow Chorus joins in and Young Elsa accidentally strikes Young Anna with her powers. The King and Queen rush to help, and Queen Iduna calls on the Hidden Folk to revive Young Anna. Pabbie and Bulda, the mystical leaders of the Hidden Folk, remove the ice from Young Anna’s head as well as all memories of Young Elsa’s magic.

Young Elsa grows fearful of her powers and isolates herself from her sister until she can learn to control them; the gates to the castle are closed. With no memory of the magic strike, Young Anna wonders why her sister will no longer play with her (“Do You Want to Build a Snowman?”).

Years later, Middle Elsa still struggles to control her powers as her fear grows, while Middle Anna still yearns for her sister’s affection. The King and Queen leave the kingdom to search for answers, but are lost at sea.

On the day of Elsa’s coronation as queen, the Castle Staff reopens the gates. Anna daydreams about how exciting it will be to have life back in the castle while Elsa practices controlling her powers for the coronation (“For the First Time in Forever”).

After the Bishop crowns Elsa, the two sisters finally talk and laugh together. Later, Anna bumps into the charming Prince Hans, and the two immediately fall in love (“Love Is an Open Door”) and decide to marry. The elated couple ask Elsa for her blessing of their marriage, but she refuses. As tensions rise, Elsa accidentally shoots ice into the ballroom, terrifying the guests.

Anna runs out to find Elsa, who has fled to an ice palace of her own making. Elsa lets go of her fear and embraces her powers (“Let It Go”).

On the snowy mountainside, Anna comes upon Kristoff, a local ice harvester, and his reindeer, Sven. They agree to help her find Elsa, and are startled when Olaf, a magical snowman, appears. Olaf vows to help them bring back summer; the snowman and the Summer Chorus fantasize about what it will be like (“In Summer”).

Hans and the Duke of Weselton send out a search party to find Anna and capture Elsa. Meanwhile, Anna, Kristoff, and Olaf finally find Elsa. Anna reveals that Elsa’s powers have set off an eternal winter everywhere. In her panic, Elsa accidentally strikes Anna again. Kristoff seeks a cure for Anna from the Hidden Folk, who think she and Kristoff are a couple (“Fixer Upper”). When Anna faints, however, Pabbie and Bulda inform them that only an act of true love can thaw her frozen heart, so they return to Arendelle to find Hans.

Meanwhile, Elsa is captured and brought back to the castle. When Anna arrives, Hans reveals that he never loved her and was just using her to become King of Arendelle. He leaves Anna to freeze to death, but Olaf helps her escape to find Kristoff.

Hans tells the kingdom that Anna has died and sentences Elsa to death; in her fear, Elsa creates a massive blizzard. As Anna is about to reunite with Kristoff, she sees that Hans has drawn his sword over Elsa. Anna sacrifices herself, stopping Hans’s sword as she turns to ice.

This act of true love between sisters thaws Anna, and Elsa realizes that love can thaw the effects of her powers; the kingdom celebrates while all vow to fill the world with light and love (“Finale”).

2026 PRODUCTION TEAM

BECKY GULSVIG
Mainstage Musical Director

Becky Gulsvig is honored to direct the Mainstage Musical at Trollwood, where, as a high schooler, she starred in Michael Walling’s productions of 42nd Street (Peggy Sawyer), Jesus Christ Superstar (Judas), and Damn Yankees (Lola). Becky grew up dancing under Eddie and Kathy Gasper and graduated from Moorhead Senior High School, where she was a proud Speech Team member and MHS Musical participant under Rebecca Meyer-Larson.

Becky moved to NYC in 2000 and has been New York City-based for the past 25 years. Her Broadway credits now include Hairspray (Amber), Legally Blonde (Original Broadway Cast), School Of Rock (Patty), Come From Away (Beverley & Others), and A Beautiful Noise (Jaye). Becky also starred in three 1st National Tours: Legally Blonde (Elle Woods), Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Cynthia Weil), and Come From Away (Beverley & Others). She has worked on television, in commercials, voice-overs, and performed on the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and (twice!) on the Tony Awards.

Simultaneously to her Broadway credits in the past 5 years, Becky founded and runs a Theatrical Enrichment program for children in New Jersey, where she lives with her husband, daughter, and 2 dogs. Becky would like to give a shout-out to her Mom (Patty Gulsvig) for getting the ball rolling by paying for dance lessons and always being so fierce and supportive. Becky is extra proud to direct at this new Trollwood facility, which her Dad, the late Kris Gulsvig, helped to plan after both of his kids had graduated, because he saw what the theatre community can do for kids, families, and this wonderful FM community full of such wonderful talent and artistry!

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BRYAN DUNCAN
Production & Hiring Manager

Bryan has been the Campus Lighting Director at Concordia College for the past 34 years. In 2005, 2009, and 2013 he was honored as an Exhibition Finalist in the World Stage Design competition in Toronto, Seoul, and Cardiff, respectively. Several of Bryan’s lighting designs have been honored by the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival including designs for The Diviners, The Adding Machine, Pippin, and West Side Story. Bryan is also the lighting designer for the 2-time Regional Emmy © Award winning Concordia Christmas Concerts. He returns for his 15th season at Trollwood and looks forward to a fantastic summer!

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GRADY BOWMAN
Choreographer

An Atlanta based director, choreographer, and educator, Grady Bowman has been recognized by Dance Magazine for his extreme versatility in both style and genre. With more than two decades of industry experience, his bold vision and instinctive storytelling has created emotionally charged and visually striking work across Broadway, film, television, concert dance and more.
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Select credits include Olney Theatre Center’s Singin’ In The Rain (Helen Hayes Nomination for Outstanding Choreography), BIG APPLE CIRCUS at Lincoln Center; WORLD’S GOT TALENT on Hunan TV (China) and Co-choreographer (Finale) of THE CHER SHOW on Broadway. Grady is the co-founder of GxA Creative, a bicoastal creative direction and choreography team which has been featured at Dance Camera West, BronzeLens, and the LA Dance Film Festival and featured by Dance Magazine and DanceFilmmaking.com.
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​With his extensive background in theater and his conservatory training at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, Grady’s performing career includes 5 Broadway shows: BILLY ELLIOT, SOUTH PACIFIC (2008 revival), HONEYMOON IN VEGAS, WONDERLAND, and THE PIRATE QUEEN. He also toured internationally with FOSSE and the acclaimed dance company PILOBOLUS DANCE THEATRE as well as appeared in the films FORREST GUMP and THE LAST FIVE YEARS.

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KRISTIN GRIFFEATH
Music Director

Dr. Kristin Griffeath hails from Plymouth, Minnesota and brings over fifteen years of experience teaching music at the elementary and collegiate levels. Griffeath attended the Lawrence University Conservatory of Music in Appleton, WI, where she double majored in Music Education (Choral/Vocal) and Piano Performance. She studied at the University of Arizona in Tucson, teaching elementary music while earning a master’s degree in voice performance.  At the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory of Music and Dance, she pursued a DMA in vocal performance and a second master’s degree in musicology.  After twelve years of teaching voice, music history, and opera as a full professor at Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford, Oklahoma, she relocated with her family to the Fargo-Moorhead area in the fall of 2023. She currently teaches elementary music for the West-Fargo Public School District at Horace Elementary, where she enjoys helping young musicians discover the amazing world of music-making. She has recently enjoyed a chance to return to the voice studio at Concordia College, where she now teaches applied voice.  The last two summers have brought exciting opportunities to work with Trollwood students in the Musical Theatre Conservatory summer course, and she is thrilled to be stepping into music direction for Trollwood’s 2026 Mainstage Musical production of Frozen.

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ERIK AULT
Orchestra Director

Erik Ault is thrilled to be starting his first year as the Pit Orchestra Director at Trollwood for the Mainstage Musical. Erik is the High School Band Director at Hawley High School, where he teaches students in grades 8–12 across concert bands, jazz band, pep band, individual lessons, and their pit orchestra. Erik is an educator dedicated to creating meaningful musical experiences for students, pushing them to be life-long musicians.

Erik has contributed to over sixteen theatrical productions throughout the Fargo–Moorhead area. He has served as the Percussion Mentor at Trollwood Performing Arts School for the past three Mainstage shows, rehearsing and leading musicians in the summer productions. His collaborative approach centers on building a team through music, community in the ensemble, and stylistic versatility across genres. Erik is a graduate of Concordia College where he earned a Bachelor of Music in Instrumental Music Education. He has directed collegiate ensembles including the Concordia Echo Band, Concordia Symphonia Orchestra, and Concordia Percussion Ensemble. Erik teaches private lessons for local students and has also instructed various music classes for students from elementary through high school. His performance background includes work with wind ensembles, orchestras, percussion ensembles, and jazz groups. Erik is passionate about helping students grow as confident, empathetic young people—both in the pit and beyond!

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DAVID TRIPTOW
Associate Choreographer

David Triptow (he/him) is a movement artist, choreographer, musician, and yoga educator based in Fargo, North Dakota, and an alum of Trollwood Performing Arts School. David began his artistic training in the Fargo–Moorhead community, studying dance at Red River Dance, participating in the theatre department at Fargo North High School, and performing in five Mainstage Musical productions under the direction of Michael Walling before continuing his studies nationally and internationally.

David holds a B.M. in Music Education with a Dance minor from Millikin University. His performance career has taken him across the United States, Canada, and Europe, including touring internationally with the North American tour of PJ Masks Live! and performing as Riff in West Side Story at SummerStage while living in New York City. Additional regional credits include The Prom (Trent Oliver), Peter and the Starcatcher (Peter), and White Christmas (Phil), among others.

As a choreographer and educator, David has travelled nationally, collaborating with artists and creative teams in both professional and educational settings. He is currently active in the Fargo and West Fargo Public School Districts, choreographing musical theatre productions and working with artists of all ages, as well as collaborating with local dance companies throughout the region.

David is honored to return to Trollwood this summer as the Associate Choreographer, giving back to a program that played a pivotal role in his artistic development and continues to foster curiosity and creative excellence in young performers.

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JACK MEHLER
Scenery & Lighting Designer

Jack Mehler has designed lighting and scenery for theatre, dance, and corporate events for over thirty years based in New York. He was the 2013 recipient of the Korean Musical Theatre Award for Lighting Design of the year (the Korean Tony) for Rebecca and the 2012 recipient for Elisabeth. His work for TPAS began in 1996 with the scenery design for Guys and Dolls, and he has designed scenery and/or lighting for 26 TPAS productions. He was an owner’s consultant for the current Bluestem/Trollwood facility, which opened in 2009. His work has also been seen with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, BalletMet, Ballet West, Donald Byrd/Spectrum Dance, Cleveland Play House, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, The Joffrey Ballet, Manhattan Theatre Club, New York City Ballet, Northshore Music Theatre, Riverside Theatre, Seattle Rep, Spoleto Festival (Italy), Paper Mill Playhouse, Walnut Street Playhouse, Washington Ballet, The WPA Theatre and many others. He is a founding board member of A.C.T. of Connecticut and has designed many productions there. Jack lives in Bronxville, NY with his wife of 31 years, Marquerite. They have three grown children and a bunny named Albert.

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JACOB CLOUSE
Sound Designer/Audio Director

Jacob Clouse is a sound designer, composer, and audio engineer based in West Lafayette, Indiana. Jacob started his career in school, working as a member of the tech crew and stage crew at his high school in Clarence, New York. From there, his love and passion for theatre and providing audiences with unforgettable experiences grew, and he has not looked back. Jacob earned his B.F.A. in Theatre, with a concentration in Design & Technology from SUNY University at Buffalo. He is also currently pursuing an M.F.A in Sound Design from Purdue University, where he is a professor of record for an introductory class into sound design and is the sound supervisor for both of Yue-Kong Pao Hall’s blackbox and proscenium theatres. Jacob has contributed to over thirty theatrical productions throughout his years in school, working in both academic and professional settings. Jacob was just the sound designer and composer for Purdue University’s productions of A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare in the spring of last year that brought the world of Shakespeare into a music festival, and is co-designing a production of Galinthias by Bennett Ayres which will use an all-female acapella group to create a modern twist on Ancient Greek music. Jacob is very grateful to be able to bring his love of theatre to Trollwood this summer, as he strives to be able to pass the knowledge he has on to the next generation to create the next wave of designers.

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LEAH VOGEL
Stage Manager

Leah Vogel (PSM) is an active member of the performing arts community in the FM area. After graduating from NDSU, Leah interned in Stage Management at The Juilliard School, spent 3 summers at Santa Fe Opera, and worked 7 years in NYC in Stage and Production Management including 4 years as the Touring Stage Manager for Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival’s education tour. Locally, Leah has Stage Managed productions with Theatre B, FM Opera, NDSU Opera Theatre, Act Up Theatre, Lyric Opera of the North, and Theatre NDSU.

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YARELIS RODRIGUEZ
Assistant Stage Manager

Yarelis Rodriguez is a recent SUNY Fredonia graduate. Her credits include Die Fledermaus (ASM), Little Women (ASM), The Crucible (ASM), Così fan tutte (SM), Twelfth Night (ASM), The Lightning Thief (SM), Stop Kiss (SM), Stormboy (SM) and Blithe Spirit (SM). This is her first production with Trollwood and she is thrilled to be part of the team!

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KATIE CURRY
Costume Designer/Director

Katie Curry is in her twelfth year as costume designer and shop manager at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota and her second year as the costume director for Trollwood. After graduating from Berry College in Rome, Georgia, she worked at the Georgia Shakespeare Festival in Atlanta, Theatre by the Sea (RI), the Ocean State Theatre Company (RI), Coastal Carolina University (SC), the University of Minnesota Morris, and The Black Hills Playhouse (SD) to name a few. Locally, Katie has designed for Theatre B and the Fargo Moorhead Community Theatre.

In 2020, Katie was honored to receive the URTA Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Training in the area of Costume Design and Technology. The award recognizes outstanding work of instructors, coaches, and mentors, for excellence in the training and preparation of undergraduate theatre artists. It is awarded to one costumer each year. In 2024, she received the Ole and Lucy Flaat Distinguished Service Award.

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COURTNEY WINKELMAN
Charge Artist

Courtney (she/her) is THRILLED to be returning to Trollwood for her sixth summer! She currently lives in Austin, TX where she works full-time teaching scenic painting at Texas State University. Courtney graduated in 2016 with a BFA in Theatre: Design & Technology from Auburn University and was The Scenic Artist Apprentice at Steppenwolf Theatre Co. for their 2019-2020 season. Her previous Trollwood Performing Arts credits include Freaky Friday, Singin’ in the Rain, The Addams Family, Mamma Mia! (Charge Artist) and Hello Dolly! (Scenic Artist). Other Scenic Painting credits include Violet, Great Comet… (Auburn University); The Pillowman, Doubt (The Gift Theatre); A Chorus Line, Billy Elliot, Memphis (Porchlight Music Theatre); and 5 seasons at Texas Shakespeare Festival. Courtney’s has also painted for shows, including The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, the CMA Awards, and productions at Walt Disney World. Courtney is the proud daughter of Mike and Val Winkelman and is so thankful for all their love and support over the years.

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EMILY COOK
Props Director

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CEDAR REMMEN
Technical Director

Cedar (he/him) is excited to be back with Trollwood Performing Arts for the seventh time this summer. He previously worked on Mamma Mia! as Assistant Technical Director/Shop Foreman, and on The Addams Family and Singin’ In The Rain as Lighting Director. Additionally, he served as Technical Director on Mary Poppins Jr., Beauty and the Beast Jr., and Jungle Book Kids. When not at Trollwood, he works as the Technical Director at Concordia College and as a freelance designer. He holds a BFA in Theatre Design and Tech from North Dakota State University. He would like to thank his lovely wife and family for always supporting the arts.

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JAMES PACK
Assistant Technical Director/Shop Foreman

Escaping the raging 115-degree heat in the desert of Tucson, AZ, this is James Pack’s (He/Him) second season with Trollwood. He has a BA in Theatre Arts from the University of Arizona and an MS in Entertainment Business from Full Sail University. When he isn’t fleeing to cooler climates, he works full-time at the University of Arizona as the Scene Shop Supervisor and Master Carpenter for the School of Theatre, Film and Television. James is also an award-winning author and a member of the Horror Writers Association.

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ALEX RAETHER
Sound Technician

Alex Raether is an award-winning sound designer and collegiate-level scenic designer based in Brookings, South Dakota. His care and skill in sound design come from years of training as a musician and singer, and training at South Dakota State University in audio engineering. Recently, Alex was awarded the Regional Sound Design Award at ACTF Region 5 Festival 57 for his work on Macbeth at South Dakota State University. Alongside his work in sound, he is a skilled carpenter who worked on the film Medora: Empress of the Badlands and designed the set for the world premiere of The Escape Thingy. He is continually interested in refining his skills and bringing fresh ideas to whatever project comes next.

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JULIA JONES
Scenic Artist

Julia Jones could not be more excited to return for her fourth summer at Trollwood! She earned her bachelor degrees in Theatre and Art from the University of Montevallo. Her previous Trollwood Performing Arts scenic painting credits include Mamma Mia, Singin’ in the Rain, and The Addams Family. Other scenic painting credits include Rent and Tartuffe (University of Montevallo) and God of Carnage (South City Theatre). Julia takes on many different technical roles in the theatre including lighting and managing. She spent summers as an electrician at the Utah Festival Opera and Musical Theatre (Logan, UT) and at The Lost Colony (Matteo, NC). She also works for various artists as a studio assistant. Two of her own artworks were exhibited in the 2025 Robin Nance Metz Art Competition.

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CLAIRE TWEDT
Assistant Costume Shop Manager

Claire is a Moorhead native and a Trollwood alumna, excited to return for her third year as a member of the Mainstage Musical team. She holds a BA in Theatre from Luther College and has been working in the theatre industry around Wisconsin ever since. She is currently working at the Children’s Theatre of Madison, where she works as a Stitcher and costume crafts specialist as well as Wardrobe Supervisor. She has a passion for costumes and arts education and looks forward to working with motivated and enthusiastic students this summer to help broaden their knowledge of costuming as well as creating beautiful costumes for Frozen.

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ANNIE HARDT
Hair & Makeup Designer/Director

Annie Hardt is so excited to be returning to Moorhead to design hair and makeup for Frozen at Trollwood. A graduate of Minnesota State University Moorhead, Annie discovered her passion for wigs and makeup during her time here and working with Strawhat Players. She has gone on to work professionally as a wig stylist, makeup artist, and designer, including over 8 years in Las Vegas on shows such as The Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil and Discoshow by Spiegelworld. Previous design credits at Tuacahn include Cinderella, The Prince of Egypt, Matilda, Mamma Mia!, and Newsies. Annie is also the founder of The Caged Wig, a Las Vegas–based small business specializing in sculptural wig styling and education. All my love and thanks to my friends and family who have supported me throughout all of these adventures.

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SHANNON MAYO
First Hand/Wardrobe

Shannon Mayo is a costume technician from Mobile, Alabama. Shannon is a sophomore Costume Construction major with a second emphasis in Lighting Design at the Sargent Conservatory of Theatre Arts at Webster University. This is her first year working at Trollwood as a First Hand in the costume shop and Wardrobe Crew. Shannon has worked on many productions at the Sargent Conservatory of Theatre Arts in roles in the costume shop as well as lighting and sound. She worked as a First Hand on the pre-Broadway production of “Austen’s Pride” at STAGES St. Louis. She has worked on various kids’ productions at Sunny Side Theater in various costumes, props, and paint positions. She has also worked as the Costume Assistant for a production of “Grease” at Joe Jefferson Playhouse. She is very excited to work at Trollwood this summer!

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PRATIMA KHATRI
Stitcher/Hair & Makeup Crew Lead

Pratima Khatri (she/they) is a second-year at the Sargent Conservatory of Theatre Arts at Webster University. They aspire to get a BFA in Costume Design with a second emphasis in Wig, Hair, and Makeup. Pratima fell in love with the first show she designed: Frozen Jr. They couldn’t be more thrilled to revisit it! Other theaters she has worked at include STAGES St. Louis and Winter Opera St. Louis. When they’re not doing theater, she loves to crochet, listen to Lady Gaga, and watch How I Met Your Mother.]

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SAVANNAH RUSSELL
Stitcher & Wardrobe Crew

Savannah Russell has worked on a variety of shows, but some of her greatest accomplishments came from working on a production of Eurydice, written by Sarah Ruhl, as stitcher and wardrobe head, a production of Time Flies, written by David Ives, as costume designer, as well as Love/Sick, written by John Carini, as costume designer. Savannah graduated from Susquehanna University in Selinsgrove Pennsylvania with a Bachelors of Arts in Theater Production and Design.

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JOCELYN LAUX
Carpenter

Jocelyn is a junior at Concordia College, majoring in Communications and English Literature and minoring in Theatre Arts and Women’s and Gender Studies. At Concordia, she works in the theatre’s scene shop as the Scenic Student Manager, helping build and paint sets for Concordia’s shows. Jocelyn has worked on the technical side of many Concordia Theatre productions and served as the Assistant Stage Manager and Props Coordinator for FM Opera’s La Traviata. Outside of theatre, she is involved in music and loves to spend time with family, friends, and her cats!

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THEO FRANDSEN
Carpenter

Theo Frandsen is excited for his first summer at Trollwood! A Fargo native, Theo is a Davies High School graduate currently attending NDSU as a Theatre Arts Major. Theo recently worked on the NDSU x Theatre B collaboration of Romeo and Juliet, the FM Ballet’s Classic Nutcracker, and Theatre NDSU’s production of The Sound of Music.

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TRINITY PITZER
Carpenter

Trinity Pitzer is excited to start her first summer of working with Trollwood as a carpenter for the Mainstage Musical. In the fall, Trinity will be going into her junior year at Concordia College where she majors in Theatre Art. She has worked in the scene shop at Concordia, helping build sets for productions since her freshman year. Trinity is passionate about bringing life to the stage and helping others find their passion in theatre.

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RESA FULLER
Master Electrician

Resa Fuller is a lighting designer, electrician, stage manager, and artist currently based in Central Illinois. Previously she has been employed at the Doudna Fine Arts Center in Charleston, IL, and has worked with various theater companies in the Madison, WI, area. Favorite past productions include The Play That Goes Wrong (Lighting Designer; Illinois Theatre), The Bridges of Madison County (Lighting Designer; Music Theatre of Madison), Micro (World Premier Staged Reading; Stage Manager; Music Theatre of Madison), Timeless (Assistant Stage Manager; Madison Ballet), and The Secret Garden (Alice; Eastern Illinois University Theatre). She is currently pursuing a Master’s of Fine Arts in Lighting Design and Technology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. resalainefuller.com

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AMY BALLEW
Cutter/Draper

Amy Ballew (Cutter/Draper; She/Her) is excited to be joining the creative team at Trollwood once again! She first joined the Trollwood team last year for Mamma Mia! overseeing the alterations for the entire show and the construction of the finale looks. Amy received her MFA in Costume Design and Technology from Kent State University in Kent, OH and currently resides as the Costume Shop Supervisor at Miami University in Oxford, OH. Though knowledgeable in all areas of costume production, her favorite part of the process is the construction of costumes (especially when there are cool effects involved). Some of her favorite costume builds include: Trollwood’s production of Mamma Mia, Virginia Theatre Festival’s Little Shop of Horrors, and Kent State’s productions of The Crucible, The Wiz, and Rent.

Mainstage Musical Key Dates & Summer Schedule

Mainstage Musical Kick-Off Event

Thursday, June 4
Cast: 4:30–9:00 PM
Everyone: 7:30 PM

Marcil Commons, Trollwood Performing Arts School

This essential gathering is for all cast, crew, and orchestra members—as well as their parents. You’ll meet the full creative and production teams and receive important information to prepare for the exciting summer ahead.

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Rehearsal Schedule

June 5–30

Monday–Friday: 4:30–9:30pm
Saturday Rehearsals: June 6, 13, 20, 27
Saturdays: 10:00am–5:00pm

July 1 — Sun Celebration (times TBD)
July 2 — 10:00am–5:00pm

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4th of July Break

No rehearsals July 3, 4, or 5.

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July Rehearsals

July 6–11
1:00pm–9:00pm

July 13–17
1pm –11:00pm

July 18
Possible day off (to be confirmed)

July 19
1pm–11:00pm

July 20
12:00pm–5:00pm — OPENING NIGHT

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Performances

July 20–25
July 28–August 1

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Strike

August 3–6
Times to be announced.

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Production Party

Thursday, August 6 at 7:00pm
Trollwood Performing Arts School

A fun and celebratory close to the Mainstage Musical season for all participants!

Attendance & Commitment Expectations

During the audition process, all students will complete an audition form that outlines every date associated with the production—including audition callbacks, rehearsals, performances, and special events. You will be asked to list any known conflicts on this form. These conflicts are taken into consideration during casting, as consistent attendance is essential to the success of the Mainstage Musical.

If you need to miss a rehearsal, an excused absence must be requested in advance through a written submission to the Stage Manager and will require the approval of the Mainstage Musical Director.

If you become ill and are unable to attend, you must contact the Stage Manager prior to the start of rehearsal so the artistic team is aware of your absence.

Please note:

• After three excused absences, any additional missed rehearsals may directly affect the level of responsibility you are assigned within the show.
• Unexcused absences (missing without prior notice or approval) may result in loss of featured moments, removal from scenes, or—as a last resort—dismissal from the production.

We understand that students are balancing many commitments, and our goal is always to support you. Clear communication helps ensure a positive, successful experience for everyone involved.

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Trollwood Academy Requirement

All Mainstage Musical cast members must enroll in at least one Trollwood Academy class or one session of Trollwood Conservatory, and also assist with poster distribution for the musical. If you are chosen for The Dream Team, this will count as your enrolled class and will occur during 4th period. Summer registration opens January 14 at 5:00pm, and forms will be available at www.trollwood.org.

Audition Overview

Casting for Trollwood’s 2026 Mainstage Musical will take place through an audition process. Students currently in grades 8–12 are eligible to participate in the high school audition sessions.

NEW THIS YEAR: The Dream Team
Delightfully Reaching to Engage and Motivate through Entertainment and Marketing, this team will serve as ambassadors for the Mainstage Musical throughout the FM community.

In addition to casting the Mainstage Musical, this year’s auditions will also be used to select students for a brand-new performing opportunity connected to the production.

The Dream Team is a small group of students chosen by the creative team during auditions. Serving as ambassadors for Frozen, this team will rehearse during the 4th period as their required Trollwood Academy class. During this class, Dream Team members will:

• Rehearse short performance moments from Frozen
• Prepare for community appearances that help spotlight the show
• Share Trollwood spirit and musical theatre joy throughout the FM area

Dream Team participants will also engage in mini-workshops during their 4th period class, focused on press, marketing, social media, and the “business” side of theatre—offering an inside look at what it takes to promote a Mainstage Musical production.

We are thrilled to bring back this beloved concept from Trollwood’s early years and to offer another meaningful opportunity for students to grow, perform, and contribute to the magic of our 2026 Mainstage Musical.

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Training Opportunities

Young Anna & Young Elsa Workshop (Grades 2–7) – FREE

As part of the casting process for Young Anna and Young Elsa, we will offer a special workshop for students in grades 2–7 who are interested in being considered for these roles.

This fun, informal workshop will be held on Saturday, February 7, from 10:00 am–12:00 pm at Trollwood Performing Arts School in the Marcil Commons. Students do not need to prepare anything in advance. During the session, they may play theatre games, sing songs, learn a short piece of movement, and do a Frozen-themed craft. Throughout the workshop, the artistic team will be observing to get a sense of each student’s personality, level of comfort performing, and a sense of their innate talents. This workshop is an important step to be considered for the roles of Young Anna or Young Elsa. The final casting decisions may also be influenced by the high school audition pool later in February.

From this group, a small number of students may be invited to attend callback sessions on Tuesday, February 24 and possibly Wednesday, February 25. Please keep these dates available in their schedule in case they are invited to continue in the process.

Not all workshop participants will receive a callback invitation but we are very excited for a morning of Frozen FUN!

Online registration is required for this workshop.

We have reached capacity for this workshop. If you still wish to audition, you may submit a recorded audition.

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Audition Information

Auditions for the Mainstage Musical will take place February 21–25 at Marcil Commons, Trollwood Performing Arts School.

Individual audition appointments will be held on Saturday, February 21 and Sunday, February 22. After these initial auditions, a selected group of students will be invited to participate in callback sessions held over the following days. Not all students who audition will receive a callback.

To register for an audition session, contact Trollwood at (218) 477-6500 or trollwood@fargo.k12.nd.us. Sign up early to secure the time slot that works best for you! If all in-person audition slots are full—or if you are unable to attend the scheduled audition dates—you may audition via recorded video. Video submission instructions are provided below.

Please note: In-person auditions will be given preference for casting unless you live outside of the metro area.

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2026 Cast Audition Schedule

(Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your session start time to register/warm up.)

Saturday, February 21, 2026

• 11:00 am–1:00 pm
• 1:30 pm–3:30 pm
• 4:00 pm–6:00 pm

Sunday, February 22, 2026

• 11:00 am–1:00 pm
• 1:30 pm–3:30 pm
• 4:00 pm–6:00 pm

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Callbacks

Callback participation is by invitation only. If you are called back, you will be assigned a specific call time for your session. Call times are set by the artistic team and will be emailed prior to each callback date. Students should keep the full callback window available in their schedule in case they are invited and until their individual time is confirmed.

• Monday, February 23 – Dance/Movement Callbacks
  4:30–9:00 pm (assigned call times will be emailed prior to this session)
• Tuesday, February 24 – Acting/Vocal Callbacks
  4:30–9:00 pm (assigned call times will be emailed prior to this session)
• Wednesday, February 25 – Additional Callbacks (only if needed)
  4:30–9:00 pm (assigned call times will be emailed if this session is used)

Audition Instructions

Come with a prepared song. Please prepare a 32-bar memorized cut of a musical theatre song in a style similar to Frozen. Choose the section that best showcases your vocal and acting abilities.

If selecting and cutting a song feels overwhelming, we’ve added extra support this year:

• You may attend a Music Director Mini Mentoring Session (FREE) to receive guidance on refining a song you’ve already selected.
• You may also choose from our pre-selected audition cuts from Frozen, along with rehearsal accompaniment.

Download pre-selected audition cuts from Frozen here!

Important: No matter which option you choose, your audition selection must stay within the 32-bar limit. If your cut runs longer, the director may need to stop you, simply to keep auditions moving smoothly.

An accompanist will be provided. Please bring one clean copy of your sheet music for the accompanist. No recorded accompaniment or self-accompaniment, please.

If you choose to use one of the pre-selected audition cuts from Frozen provided on our website, please download and print the music and bring it with you to your audition.

These cuts are already trimmed to fit the 32-bar requirement. If you choose a different song, please be sure your cut does not exceed 32 bars; if it is longer, the artistic team may need to stop you before you reach the end.

What to Expect

• Be ready to talk about yourself.
  The audition team may ask you a few questions—about you, your interests, or what excites you about being part of this production. Just be yourself!
• Dressy casual for the singing portion.
  Wear something that makes you feel confident and polished.
• Bring clothes you can move in.
  After singing, you will learn a short dance combination. Please bring comfortable clothing and clean, flexible-soled shoes (sneakers or dance shoes work well). Heels are not needed for first auditions but may be appropriate for callbacks.
• Arrive well-rested and focused.
  Energy, presence, and confidence make a strong impression. Take a deep breath, trust your preparation, and enjoy the experience.

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Recorded Auditions

If you are able to audition in person, that would be preferred. To register for an audition session, contact Trollwood at (218) 477-6500 or trollwood@fargo.k12.nd.us. Sign up early to secure the time slot that works best for you! If all in-person audition slots are full—or if you are unable to attend the scheduled audition dates—you may audition via recorded video.

Please note: In-person auditions will be given preference for casting unless you live outside of the metro area.

To submit your video audition, please do so via an online video (YouTube, Vimeo, or similar). All recorded auditions must be received by the Trollwood office no later than February 13 to be considered.

Submission Requirements

Your recorded audition may be submitted as a private online link.

For online submissions:

• Videos should be set to Private or Unlisted.
• Include any required passwords for access.
• Clearly label the video with the auditioner’s full name.

Required accompanying materials (all submissions):

• A brief written profile including:
  Name, address, phone number, current age, current grade
• A recent photo
• A resume (if you have one)
• For online videos: a direct working link and password (if needed)

You may email your video link and additional accompanying materials: trollwood@fargo.k12.nd.us.

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What to Include in Your Video

Your recorded audition must include the following components, in this order:

1. Introduction
   State clearly on camera:
   • Your full name
   • Your current age and grade
   • A brief introduction about you and your performing experience
2. Dance Combination
   Perform a short dance or movement combination demonstrating your full range of ability.
   This does not need to be professionally choreographed—clean movement and clear performance quality are most important.
3. Vocal Selection
   Perform a musical theatre audition song not to exceed 32 bars.
   This selection should showcase your vocal strengths. Please refer to AUDITION INSTRUCTIONS for more information.
4. Monologue
   Present a monologue, not to exceed 1 minute.
   Choose a piece that highlights your acting range and storytelling ability.

Pit Orchestra for Frozen – Summer 2026!

Orchestra participation begins with the Mainstage Musical kick-off meeting on June 4. Rehearsals will run from June 8 through July 19, with performances scheduled for July 20–August 1. Participating in the Mainstage Pit Orchestra offers a unique opportunity to grow as a musician while working in a creative, supportive, and professional environment.

So why join the Mainstage Musical Pit Orchestra?

• Make new connections with student musicians from across the FM area and beyond as you rehearse and perform the music behind this summer’s production of Frozen.
• Improve your skills as a musician in a new type of ensemble.
• Experience musical theater repertoire, a style many students don’t often get the chance to explore.
• Collaborate with some of the region’s finest musicians, gaining insight into professional-level performance expectations.
• Participate in master classes with professional musicians, offering hands-on learning with advanced players not typically accessible to high school students.
• Join a company of 100+ students, all working together toward the shared goal of an extraordinary production.
• And best of all—it’s fun! A summer filled with music-making, community, and unforgettable experiences.

Pit Orchestra 2026 Schedule

Pit Orchestra participation is by audition. Our evening rehearsal schedule throughout June and July allows you to take Trollwood classes, have a day job, attend summer school, or just hang out with friends, so you CAN “have it all” this summer!

Audition Dates: See details in Audition Sign-up details below

Mainstage Musical Kick-off Event: June 4, 2026

Regular Rehearsals: June 8-July 8, Monday through Friday

Summer Break: July 3-5 for the 4th of July weekend

Sitzprobe: Monday, July 6 & Tuesday, July 7

Staging Rehearsals with Orchestra & Cast: July 9-11 evening rehearsals, times TBD

Tech Rehearsals: July 13-19 from 6 pm to approximately 11 pm

Performances: July 20-25 and July 28-August 1st from 6 pm -11 pm

Brush Up Rehearsal: Tuesday, July 28 in the afternoon, time TBD

Strike: August 3-6 during the day, times TBD

Production Party: Thursday evening, August 6

* All schedules are subject to change as needed.

Please note that all known conflicts must be shared at auditions. In some cases, students may miss a limited number of rehearsals and still perform, subject to the director’s discretion.

Pit Orchestra 2026 Instrumentation

For this summer’s production, the following instrumentation will be used. If you play multiple instruments (for example, multiple saxophones), please indicate this on your audition form, as you may be asked to perform on each instrument.

Strings

• Violin
• Viola
• Cello
• Upright Acoustic Bass
• Electric Bass
• Acoustic Guitar/Mandolin

Woodwinds

• Flute/Piccolo
• Clarinet
• Bass Clarinet
• Oboe/English Horn
• Bassoon
• Soprano Saxophone
• Alto Saxophone
• Tenor Saxophone
• Bari Saxophone

Brass

• Trumpet
• French Horn
• Trombone/Bass Trombone
• Euphonium/Baritone
• Tuba

Percussion & Keyboards

• Piano/Keyboard
• Percussion

MAINSTAGE MUSICAL TECHNICAL THEATER APPRENTICESHIP

Join the technical theater crew for Frozen and choose your level of commitment:  engage with our build crews in June, support performances in July and August, or experience the full season by participating in both.

Please sign up in the Mainstage Musical portion of the website. You will be asked to indicate your availability, areas of interest, and skill levels.

Technical Theater Apprenticeship Availability

June Only: Engage in creating the show within your chosen area. Collaborate with a designated leader to develop a flexible schedule that suits you, primarily on weekdays between 9 am and 4 pm. Your participation can range from just an hour to a full day, depending on your availability.

July & August Only: Join the run crew and commit to all evening rehearsals and performances in July & August. More info coming soon.

Full Season: Experience the entire production cycle by joining both the June build and creation phase and the July and August run crew. This option includes all commitments listed for the June Only and July & August Only schedules, allowing you to fully immerse in every aspect of bringing the show to life from start to finish.

Technical Theater Apprenticeship Areas of Interest

When you register you will be asked to select up to three technical areas where you would like to contribute. If you only have one area of interest, that’s perfectly fine.

No experience? No problem! We welcome participants at all skill levels. The information you provide here about your experience and any previous participation in a run crew helps us with placement and scheduling. This ensures that everyone is matched to roles that suit their interests and skills, making the apprenticeship experience enriching for all involved.

Below are the available options:

Set, Props, and Paint: Engage in building and painting the set, and crafting props.

Sound: Work with the sound team on the setup and operation of the sound system, crucial for our outdoor amphitheater settings.

Lights: Be involved in a range of lighting tasks such as hanging fixtures, operating spotlights, focusing lights, and maintaining lighting fixtures.

Stage Management: Assist our professional Stage Manager in orchestrating the rehearsal process. Learn the essentials of documenting blocking, supporting the artistic team to ensure efficient rehearsals, and helping manage performances to ensure everything runs seamlessly.

Costumes: Participate in constructing costumes. Learn how to operate a sewing machine, hand sewing, adding “bling” to make the costumes pop, etc.

Hair and Makeup: Assist in creating character looks with makeup and hairstyling.

Standards & Benchmarks

Mainstage Musical
Grades 8-12 (during the 2025-2026 school year)

The Mainstage Musical offers cross-curricular arts education and training to high school students.  It also provides valuable performance experience and unique, differentiated instruction tailored to the needs of every student.  The multiple curricular areas and applicable standards and benchmarks are listed below.  Not all standards and benchmarks are addressed at every opportunity, but a significant number of standards and benchmarks within multiple disciplines are represented.

Music

Standard 1: Singing
Students sing, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music.

9-12.1.1. Sing with expression and technical accuracy.
9-12.1.2. Sing music written in four or more parts, with and without accompaniment.
9-12.1.3. Sing in small ensembles with one student per part.

Standard 2: Instrumental Performance (Orchestra only)
Students perform on instruments, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music.

9-12.2.1. Perform on an instrument, alone, and in small and large groups.
9-12.2.2. Perform with expression and technical accuracy on a string, wind, percussion, or classroom.

Standard 3: Improvisation
Students improvise melodies, variations, and accompaniments.

9-12.3.1. Improvise stylistically appropriate harmonizing parts.
9-12.3.2. Improvise rhythmic and melodic variations.

Standard 4: Composition
Students compose and arrange music within specified guidelines.

*This standard is not applicable in Mainstage Musical

Standard 5: Reading Music
Students read and notate music.

9-12.5.1. Know how to read a score of up to four staves.

Standard 6: Listening
Students listen to, analyze, and describe music.

9-12.6.1. Know the uses of the elements of music in the analysis of compositions representing diverse genres and cultures.
9-12.6.2. Understand technical vocabulary of music.

Standard 7: Evaluating Music
Students evaluate music and music performances.

9-12.7.2. Evaluate a given musical work in terms of its aesthetic qualities.

Standard 8: Music and Other Disciplines
Students understand the relationship between music, the other arts, and other disciplines.

9-12.8.1. Know how artistic elements and processes are used in similar and distinctive ways in the various arts.
9-12.8.2. Understand the ways in which the principles and concepts of various disciplines outside the arts are related to those of music.

Standard 9: Music, History, and Culture
Students understand music in relation to history and culture.

9-12.9.2. Know sources of American music, the evolution of these genres, and musicians associated with them.
9-12.9.3. Know various roles that musicians perform and representative individuals who have functioned in each role.

Drama

Standard 1: Dramatic Literature
Students comprehend a wide variety of dramatic literature.

9-12.1.1. Know elements of dramatic literature.
9-12.1.3. Understand the impact of choice of medium.

Standard 2: Acting
Students use fundamental acting skills.

9-12.2.1.Understand the physical, emotional, and social dimensions of characters found in dramatic texts from various genres and media.
9-12.2.2. Know various classical and contemporary acting techniques and methods.
9-12.2.3. Know how characters as an ensemble communicate with audiences.

Standard 3: Production
Students use fundamental production skills.

9-12.3.1. Use technical elements to design a production plan for a scene or play.
9-12.3.2. Perform publicly and house management duties.
9-12.3.3. Manage a technical element of a scene or play.

Standard 4: Cultural Context of Drama
Students understand drama’s role in cultural and human experiences.

9-12.4.1. Know the historical, social, and cultural factors that influence the theatre.

Standard 5: Consumer of Theatre
Students understand how to be knowledgeable consumers of theatre.

9-12.5.1. Understand the relationship between production elements and the director’s interpretation of the playwright’s script.
9-12.5.2. Understand the relationship of background research for a production to the audience’s comprehension and enjoyment of the production.

Standard 6: Drama and Human Development
Students understand the role of theatre in human development.

9-12.6.1. Use Understand how drama influences the development of creative thinking skills, critical thinking skills, and social skills throughout one’s life.

Standard 7: Drama and Other Disciplines
Students understand the connections between drama and other disciplines.

9-12.7.1. Know how elements of drama are used in similar and distinctive ways in various arts.
9-12.7.2. Know the ways in which drama influences other disciplines.
9-12.7.3. Know the ways in which other disciplines influence drama.

Dance

Standard 1: Movement Elements
Students understand the role of movement elements and skills in dance.

9-12.1.1. Use appropriate technique in dance.
9-12.1.2. Know complex steps and patterns from various dance styles and traditions.
9-12.1.3. Understand the importance of using various complex time elements.
9-12.1.4. Understand the principles governing combinations and variations in a broad dynamic range.
9-12.1.5. Understand why it is important to project in dance.

Standard 2: Choreography
Students understand choreographic principles, processes, and structures.

9-12.2.1. Understand the importance of structures and forms of movement.
9-12.2.2. Understand the use of improvisation to generate movement.

Standard 3: Dance and Meaning
Students understand dance as a way to create and communicate meaning.

9-12.3.1. Understand how movement choices are used to relate abstract ideas and themes in dance.
9-12.3.2. Understand how interpretation of dance can be influenced by personal experience.

Standard 4: Dance and Thinking Skills
Students apply critical and creative thinking skills in dance.

9-12.4.1. Establish a set of aesthetic criteria for evaluation.
9-12.4.2. Formulate and answer aesthetic questions.

Standard 5: Dance, History, and Culture
Students understand the historical development of dance and its relationship to various cultures.

9-12.5.1. Know the similarities and differences among various contemporary theatrical forms of dance.
9-12.5.2. Know dance pioneers as an index to the artistic and social values of civilization.
9-12.5.3. Understand how dance and dancers are portrayed in contemporary media.
9-12.5.4. Know the traditions and techniques of classical dance forms.

Standard 6: Dance and Personal Wellness
Students understand the connection between dance and personal wellness.

9-12.6.1. Know how lifestyle choices affect dancers.

Standard 7: Dance and Other Disciplines
Students understand the connections between dance and other disciplines.

9-12.7.1. Know how dance is similar to and different from other disciplines.
9-12.7.2. Know how technology can be used to reinforce, enhance, or alter dances.

2024 PRODUCTION TEAM

MICHAEL WALLING
Artistic Director

Michael Walling is a nationally known New York City-based stage director and arts educator. Michael has been the resident guest director for Trollwood since 1992 and is currently the Artistic Director for the Mainstage Musical. 2024 will mark the 31st stage production Michael has directed for Trollwood. Michael was the Artistic Director of the Pit and Balcony Theatre Company in Michigan, directing 24 stage productions. He’s also served as Artistic Director for Fort Peck Theatre in Montana, directing and producing over 15 productions. For the last three decades, Mr. Walling has been a frequent Guest Artist/Lecturer on the regional theatre and university stage, teaching masterclasses in stage directing and audition technique. Michael was a founding member of the Directors Company in the prestigious Goldberg Department of Dramatic Writing at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. Throughout 1992-2000, Michael directed numerous projects for the writing program.

As Artistic Director of the Mainstage Musical, Michael continues to lead a national artistic team to produce high-quality professional theatre while inspiring thousands of our local students through the discipline of arts education. Because of Michael’s continuous dedication to our community, it was announced in 2001 by the mayor of Fargo that from this day on, July 18th would officially be “Michael Walling Day” in Fargo ND.

Michael’s Trollwood directing credits include: 1992-Oklahoma, 1993-Anything Goes, 1994-Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, 1995-West Side Story, 1996-Guys and Dolls, 1997-A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, 1998-42nd Street, 1999-Jesus Christ Superstar, 2000-Damn Yankees, 2001-Crazy for You, 2002-Footloose, 2003-Les Misérables, 2004-Kiss Me, Kate, 2005-Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, 2006-Fiddler on the Roof, 2007-Thoroughly Modern Millie, 2008-Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, 2009-The Wiz, 2010-Anything Goes, 2011-The Music Man, 2012-Legally Blonde The Musical, 2013-Shrek The Musical, 2014-How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, 2015-Mary Poppins, 2016-Disney’s The Little Mermaid, 2017-Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, 2018-Hello, Dolly!, 2019-Freaky Friday!, 2021-Cinderella, 2023-Singin’ in the Rain, and will be directing this summer’s (2024) – The Addams Family!

JACK MEHLER
Scenery & Lighting Designer

Jack Mehler has designed lighting and scenery for theatre, dance, opera and corporate events for over twenty years based in New York. He was the 2013 recipient of the Korean Musical Theatre Award for Lighting Design of the year (the Korean Tony) for Rebecca and the 2012 recipient for Elisabeth. Notable recent projects include Marie Antoinette for EMK International in Seoul, Billy Elliot for Ogunquit Playhouse and premieres for The Joffrey Ballet, Lar Lubovitch, and Ballet Memphis. His work for TPAS began in 1996 with the scenery design for Guys and Dolls and he has designed scenery and/or lighting for 22 TPAS productions. He was an owner’s consultant for the Trollwood New Home which opened in 2009. His work has also been seen with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, Donald Byrd/Spectrum Dance, Cleveland Play House, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Manhattan Theatre Club, Northshore Music Theatre, Seattle Rep, Spoleto Festival (Italy), Paper Mill Playhouse, The WPA Theatre and many others. Jack lives in Bronxville, NY with his wife Marguerite and their children Patrick, Ben, and Katherine.

MICHAEL ESTANICH
Choreographer

Michael Estanich is the Artistic Director of the Chicago based dance theatre company, RE|dance group. Since 2009 RE|dance group has been presenting work in nationally recognized dance festivals throughout the United States. In summer of 2016, RE|dance group was invited to present its seminal duet Abbot & Viv at the New Dance for Asia International Dance Festival in Seoul, South Korea. Michael is also a Professor of Dance at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. He teaches modern dance, composition, dance pedagogy, movement analysis and dance history. He earned his MFA from The Ohio State University and his BFA from Denison University. His creative research currently examines ideas of space, architecture, landscape and habitation often resulting in dances supported by sculptural environments. Michael’s professional performance credits include Molly Shanahan/Mad Shak, Cerulean Dance Theatre, Rebecca Rosen, Melanie Bales, Bebe Miller, a reconstruction of Mark Morris’ choreography All Fours, and Susan Marshall’s ARMS. He is the North Central Regional Director of American College Dance Association (ACDA). Michael has been a part of the Trollwood Performing Arts School dance faculty since 2006, serving as the department chair since 2010, and the choreographer for the Mainstage Musical since 2015.

ELIZA LEWIS-O’CONNOR
Vocal Director

Eliza Lewis-O’Connor, originally from Fargo, ND teaches at Wayzata High School where she co-conducts four choirs, leads the WHS Chamber Singers, and teaches AP Music Theory. Prior to her time in Wayzata, Eliza conducted choirs and vocal directed the 9-12 musicals in White Bear Lake. Choirs under her direction have consistently earned superior ratings at large group contests, and she is an active member of ACDA and MMEA. In 2022 she was honored with the ACDA-MN Emerging Conductor Award. Eliza earned her bachelor of music degree in Vocal Music Education from St. Olaf College and her master of music degree in Choral Conducting from Northern Arizona University. Eliza has served as the vocal director for the Mainstage musicals at Trollwood Performing Arts School since 2013. She is a former Trollwood student and was the vocal student leader for two summers. When she is not conducting choirs or vocal directing musicals, Eliza enjoys laughing and singing with her husband, Isaac, and daughter, Freya!

SUE JORDAHL
Orchestra Director

Sue Jordahl has been a part of the Trollwood family filling multiple roles for more than 20 years. Sue is delighted to work as the Trollwood Performing Arts School Pit Orchestra Director for the seventh year.  Previous work with the Pit Orchestra includes being the lead keyboardist and a mentor since 1995.  Sue has been part of the Trollwood faculty where she has taught classes for both Trollwood Academy and Totally Trollwood Academy, as well accompanying dozens of Trollwood Academy classes over the years.  Sue holds a Master of Education degree from NDSU.   Currently, Sue is an instructor at West Fargo High School where she teaches band and is very involved in the musicals put on by the school. She also participates in the pit orchestras of other area high schools. In addition, she  is the organist/keyboardist and hand bell director for her church. During the year, Sue plays percussion with the Lake Agassiz Concert Band. Sue’s entire family has been involved at Trollwood over the years, as her husband, two children, and son-in-law have all been members of the Trollwood Pit Orchestra and her children are Trollwood alums.

KATIE CURRY
Costume Designer/Director

Katie Curry is in her eleventh year as costume designer and shop manager at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota. After graduating from Berry College in Rome, Georgia, she worked at the Georgia Shakespeare Festival in Atlanta, Theatre by the Sea (RI), the Ocean State Theatre Company (RI), Coastal Carolina University (SC), the University of Minnesota Morris, and The Black Hills Playhouse (SD) to name a few. Locally, Katie has designed for Theatre B and the Fargo Moorhead Community Theatre and been the costume shop manager at the Trollwood Performing Arts School.

In 2020, Katie was honored to receive the URTA Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Training in the area of Costume Design and Technology. The award recognizes outstanding work of instructors, coaches, and mentors, for excellence in the training and preparation of undergraduate theatre artists. It is awarded to one costumer each year.

Her most recent show was “Guys and Dolls” directed by Denise Holland Bethke and upcoming projects include “The Bald Soprano” and “The Laramie Project.”

JULIA JONES
Scenic Painter

Julia Jones is thrilled to be returning for her second summer at Trollwood as a Scenic Painter! She is a recent graduate of the University of Montevallo in Montevallo, Alabama with Bachelor of Arts degrees in both Theatre and Art.

COURTNEY WINKELMAN
Charge Artist

Courtney (she/her) is THRILLED to be returning to Trollwood for her fourth summer! She is a freelance Scenic Artist, and has recently start working in the world of film & TV.  Courtney graduated in 2016 with a BFA in Theatre: Design & Technology from Auburn University. She also completed a Scenic Art intensive at Cobalt Studios in 2013, and was The Scenic Artist Apprentice at Steppenwolf Theatre Co. for their 2019-2020 season. Other Scenic Art credits include The Pillowman, Doubt (The Gift Theatre); A Chorus Line, Billy Elliot, Memphis (Porchlight Music Theatre); Freaky Friday, Hello Dolly!, Singin’ in the Rain (Trollwood Performing Arts); James and the Giant Peach, Elf (Drury Lane Theatre) and 5 seasons at Texas Shakespeare Festival. Courtney’s film credits include Rescuing Christmas, Onset Dresser; Jess Plus None, the Assistant Production Designer; Lego Masters (season 5) Challenge PA; and has painted for show including The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, CMA Awards, and productions as Walt Disney World. Courtney is the proud daughter of Mike and Val Winkelman and is so thankful for all their love and support over the years. War Eagle

CEDAR REMMEN
Lighting Director

Cedar (he/him) is excited to be back with Trollwood Performing Arts for the fifth time this summer. He has previously worked on Singin’ In The Rain as Lighting Director and on Mary Poppins Jr, Beauty and the Beast Jr, and Jungle Book Kids as the Technical Director. When not at Trollwood, he works as the Technical Director at Concordia College and as a freelance designer. He holds a BFA in Theatre Design and Tech from North Dakota State University. He would like to thank his lovely wife and family for always supporting the arts.

MADELYN DEBRINE
Costume Cutter/Draper

Madelyn DeBrine is a costume technician currently getting her MFA in Costume Technology from Indiana University. She has a love for all things absurd and enjoys the opportunities theater gives her to create innovative costumes and out-of-this-world silhouettes. When not in the costume shop Madelyn enjoys spending time with her cat and playing chess with her partner. She is so excited to be a part of the Trollwood team for the summer 2024 season!

SAVANNAH MATEYKA
Audio Technician

Savannah Mateyka is a returning Trollwood staff member, she is so excited to be back! She was a part of the sound department last summer, running the sound board for Singin’ in the Rain and now back to do the same thing for The Addams Family, a cult classic that she was raised on and can’t wait to see come to life! She is a West Virginia University Alumni, where she studied sound engineering and design for her Bachelors in Technical Theatre and Design! In the offseason, Savannah has been working for a dance competition company and travels up and down the east coast with them! Savannah can’t wait to see what this summer has in store for her!

ANGUS SHAFER
Carpenter/Run Crew

Angus Shafer (he/him) is a current student at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities majoring in product design. Angus participated in Trollwood for two years while he was a student, and this will be his second year as a carpenter and member of the scenic run crew.

ETHAN SURIANO
Carpenter

Ethan Suriano has recently completed his third year at North Dakota State University where he is working on obtaining his BFA in performance. He has been an active participant in Theatre NDSUs most recent productions(Company, Twas’ the Night, Cabaret,) and is also involved in Act Up Theatre and Straw Hat Players productions of Fiddler On The Roof and Swing! respectively. Ethan is excited to be back at Trollwood for his second summer as a member of the Carpentry/Strike team, and he looks forward to bringing The Addams Family stage to life!

MORGAN HEMGROVE
Shop Foreman

Morgan Hemgrove (They/Them) is a Technical Direction student at Indiana University. Their previous work includes: Orlando, Into the Woods, The Great Comet of 1812, and much more. Outside of the scene shop, Morgan spends their time collecting (and working on) all things considered creepy or kooky. They are so excited about getting to work on Trollwood’s production of The Addams Family and can’t wait to make their partner watch the original series in preparation!

FRANKIE HARREL
Master Electrician

Frankie Harrel is a junior at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA. She is originally from Nashville, TN. She has worked on nine shows in her college career. She was head electrician for Imaginary Invalid in 2023. She most recently was assistant lighting designer for Anon(ymous) at Virginia Commonwealth University. She has done lighting for several professional theaters and musicians. She is very excited to be at Trollwood Performing Arts this summer!

MARIAELISA COSTA
Assistant Stage Manager/Deck Chief

MariaElisa is a born and bred New Yorker now living in Richmond, Virginia. Both a techie and a performer, her credits run the gamut. An alumna of Brooklyn College and The Institute for American Musical Theatre, her NYC credits include: The Bound for Broadway Festival, Theatre 315, Brooklyn and Baruch College, The Heights Players, and The Gallery Players. So far, her Richmond credits include: Firehouse Theatre, Virginia Repertory Theater, and Richmond Shakespeare. She’s very excited to add Trollwood to her list! Thanks to Eric, Chris, and her loving family- both chosen and blood. I love you!

MOLLY FEENEY
Stage Manager

Molly Feeney is a seasoned professional in the realm of theatre production, known for her expertise in event management and sound design. Holding a degree from the University of Arizona in Theatre Production with a specialization in sound design and engineering, Molly’s academic background provides her with a solid foundation in the technical aspects of theatre. However, Molly’s journey into the world of theatre extends beyond the technical realm. With a performance background and over 15 years of experience in dance, she brings a unique perspective to her role as a stage manager. Her extensive experience on stage coupled with her behind-the-scenes expertise gives her a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies involved in every production.

In addition to her dedication to the theatre, Molly is also deeply passionate about Brazilian Zouk dance, which she pursues in her free time. This commitment to dance not only enriches her personal life but also contributes to her creative vision and understanding of movement in theatrical productions. Outside of the performing arts realm, Molly channels her passion for holistic wellness by teaching yoga classes. Her dedication to physical and mental well-being enhances her ability to lead and support the cast and crew through the demanding rigors of production. With her diverse skill set, extensive experience, and unwavering passion for the performing arts, Molly Feeney stands as a dynamic force in the realm of theatre production.

DELANEY PRICE
Lighting Technician

Delaney Price (she/her) is a DC and Pittsburgh-based lighting designer, lighting technician, stage manager, and creative. Previous lighting credits include Push the Button at Keegan Theatre (ALD), and Infinite Possibilities at Ellington @ Studio Theatre (LD). Previous stage management credits include The Thing at the Foot of My Bed at CMU Playground (PSM) and the 2023 DC Music Summit (PSM). She is a current BFA Drama Design and Production student at Carnegie Mellon University and is a graduate of the Duke Ellington School of the Arts. delaneyprice.com

BECKETT SCHULTZE
Scenic Run Crew

Beckett Schultze will be going into his 2nd year of college at North Dakota State University where he is majoring in Industrial Engineering. He did one mainstage production at Trollwood where he played R.F Simpson in Singing In The Rain. He is excited to come back this time as an employee on the Facilities team and Run Crew for The Addams Family.

IAN SCHEELE
Props Master & Designer

Ian Scheele (he/him) is very excited to be joining Trollwood for his first summer as Properties Master and Designer! He is a recent graduate of Concordia College in Moorhead, where he designed props for over 15 shows including The Bald Soprano, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Richard O’Brien’s Rocky Horror Show, and Into the Woods. In 2023, he was awarded the Randy Lutz Allied Design & Technology Award at the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival, for his work on The Rocky Horror Show. In addition to his work in the theatre, he is a practicing fine artist who shows work regularly at the Rourke Art Gallery and Museum in Moorhead. He is looking forward to being a part of such a talented team of theatre artists this summer!

CHARLIE DIGIORGIO
Assistant Technical Director

Charlie DiGiorgio is a first-time staff member joining the Trollwood family for the cult-classic Addams Family. Originally from Doylestown Pennsylvania, Charlie earned his BFA in Theatrical Design and Technology, with a focus in Technical Direction, from West Virginia University. Currently, he serves as Assistant Technical Director at Indiana University’s Musical Arts Center, where he works on overseeing the day-to-day operations of the second-largest stage in the United States. He looks forward to a summer of friends, artistic expression, and scenic shenanigans.

ELLIE DE LUCIA
Hair & Makeup Designer

Ellie De Lucia is a costume, wig, and makeup designer based in Massachusetts and is excited to be joining the Trollwood team for the 2024 Summer Season! She earned her undergraduate degree from Savannah College of Art and Design and entered the industry at a rapid pace. She has experience working in theater, opera, film, and television and has had the pleasure to work with many organizations and venues such as the Boston Ballet, New England Conservatory, and the Hanover Theater. Some of her credits include Sleeping Beauty(Wig Technician/The Boston Ballet), Awakenings (Makeup Designer/Odyssey Opera), and A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder (Wig and Hat Designer/The Company Theatre).

When she is not in the theater or on set, Ellie enjoys relaxing with her dog Minerva and watching The Munsters or the Addams Family. She he’s been living the ooky, spooky, and kooky lifestyle for many years and is looking forward to bringing one of her favorite inspirations to the stage.

BELLA BYRNE
Technical Director

Born and raised in Colorado, Bella Byrne attended Denver School of the Arts (DSA) as a visual arts major, gaining impeccable color theory, pottery, and life drawing skills. There she was introduced to the joys of collaborative creation for theater while working as an overhire carpenter. Later she studied at Univ. of Northern Colorado while working as a stagehand in a local roadhouse exploring the breadth of theater production. While never able to decide between being an artist or construction worker, technical design bridged the two. Since then she has pursued her master’s degree from Boston University in Technical Production. Grad school during a pandemic was unexpected, but allowed her to focus on educational projects such as automation and project management. Some of her favorite past productions include Sunset Boulevard, Singin’ in the Rain, and The Drowsy Chaperone.

CLAIRE TWEDT
Assistant to the Costume Director/Designer & Wardrobe Supervisor

Claire is a Moorhead native and Trollwood alumna excited to be returning for her second year as a member of the Mainstage Musical team. She holds a BA in Theatre from Luther College and has been working in the theatre industry around Wisconsin ever since. She is currently working at the Children’s Theatre of Madison, where she works as a Stitcher and costume crafts specialist as well as Wardrobe Supervisor. She has a passion for costumes and arts education and looks forward to working with motivated and enthusiastic students this summer to help broaden their knowledge of costuming as well as creating beautiful costumes for The Addams Family.

BETH ODDEN
Stitcher/Wardrobe Crew

Beth Odden is a costume stitcher from Alexandria Minnesota. She graduated from Concordia College with a BA in Theatre Arts and English Writing in 2023, and has been involved with theatre onstage or in the costume shop since she was 6 years old. She has worked with theatres in Minnesota, North Dakota, and Washington as a costume designer, stitcher and wardrobe hand, including work at Concordia College, The Andria, and The Tacoma Little Theatre. In her free time, Beth likes to play D&D and roller skate. This is her first Summer with Trollwood and she can’t wait to get started!

SCOTT ANDERSON
Master Carpenter

Scott is thrilled to continue his enthusiastic dedication to Trollwood as Master Carpenter. He was on the Scenic Crew for Singin’ in the Rain last summer and did sound for the Totally Trollwood Children’s productions for the past two seasons. He also shared his talents in sound design for Trollwood’s mainstage productions of Mary Poppins and The Little Mermaid. He developed his set production carpentry expertise over many years including work with the Historic Paramount Theatre, Matchbox Children’s Theatre, and Summerset Theatre in Austin MN. He worked with MCT on seventy plays including mentoring young people who volunteered for production, sound, and lighting crews. He also gained a depth of experience at Southwest State University in Marshall MN. He has been active with production work for Theatre B in Moorhead for the past two seasons.

AMBER GRANGER
Sound Designer/Audio Director

Amber Granger is a Sound Designer based in Seattle, Washington. She is thrilled to be working on her first project outside of her home state and is happy to be at Trollwood Performing Arts this summer! Amber sends much love to her partner, Nichlas, and fur baby, Zelda, who are back home. Select Sound Design Credits: Ten Acrobats in an Amazing Leap of Faith (Centerstage Theatre), THRICE! (Pratidhwani), Monstrous Regiment (Latitude Theatre), The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical (Village Theatre KIDSTAGE). Assistant Sound Design Credits: STEW (ACT Contemporary Theatre). You can connect with Amber online at ambergrangersound.weebly.com.

MARTAN GREGOIRE
Rehearsal Accompanist/Orchestra Pianist

Martan Gregoire, born and raised in Moorhead, will be entering his third year towards earning his Bachelor of Music in Vocal Music Education from Concordia College in Moorhead. At Concordia, he has studied piano with Dr. Grigor Khatchatryan in addition to organ and collaborative piano with Prof. Andrew Steinberg. Martan is a Trollwood alumni, having participated in Artspark, Totally Trollwood Academy, Totally Trollwood Musical, Trollwood Academy, as well as several Mainstage Musicals. Most recently, he was the Vocal/Piano Student Leader for Singin’ in the Rain. This is Martan’s first year as a member of the staff at Trollwood and he is thrilled to contribute to Addams Family and support these talented students as the accompanist!

Cast Rehearsals and Performances

Prerequisite: Cast participation is by audition. Students are highly encouraged to take advantage of all training opportunities available to assist you in your preparation.

Mainstage Musical Kick-off Event:  Thursday, May 30th at 7:00pm, Marcil Commons, Trollwood Performing Arts School.  This essential gathering is for all cast, crew, and orchestra members as well as their parents.  It’s an opportunity to receive vital information about the upcoming summer and to celebrate the commencement of our exciting production journey together.

Rehearsals: Rehearsals will take place May 31 – June 25, running Monday – Friday, from 4:30-9:30pm.  June 26 Sun Celebration times TBD; June 27, 28, July 1-3 times TBD.  Saturday rehearsals are June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 and will run from 9:00am-4:00pm.

PLEASE NOTE NEW THIS YEAR!:  There will be no evening rehearsal on July 3rd and no rehearsal July 4, 5, or 6th!  Rehearsals resume Sunday, July 7th from noon until 10:00pm. July 8-15 are day and evening rehearsals which will begin at 10:00am each day.   Rehearsal schedule may vary as other details for summer are confirmed.  Please reserve Sundays throughout June as alternative rehearsal dates may need to be added once other events are booked in the amphitheater.

NOTE: It is discouraged to miss any rehearsals. After three excused absences, the additional days of rehearsals missed directly affects the amount of responsibility you will be given in the Mainstage Musical. Approval for an excused absence must be secured in advance through the submission of a written request and requires the approval of the Mainstage Musical Artistic Director.

Mainstage Musical cast participants must register for at least one Trollwood Academy class or one session of Trollwood Conservatory and assist with at least 5 hours of technical theatre for the musical.  Summer registration forms are available January 10th by 5:00pm.

Performances: July 16-20 & 23-27

Strike: July 29 – August 2

Production Party: August 1, 7:00pm, Trollwood Performing Arts School.

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Cast Auditions

Auditions are being held for the Mainstage Musical on February 17th & 18th, 2024.  Sign up for an audition session by contacting Trollwood at (218) 477-6500. If you are unable to attend these auditions, you may audition via recorded video.

2024 Cast Audition Schedule:  Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your session start time to register & warm up.

February 17th
9:30-11:30am
1:00pm-3:00pm
3:30pm-5:30pm

February 18th
1:00-3:00pm
3:30-5:30pm – This session is full
7:00-9:00pm

Marcil Commons, Trollwood Performing Arts School

Callbacks are by invitation and will be held at the following times:

Feb. 19 Dance Callbacks beginning at 4:30pm
Feb. 20 Acting/Vocal Callbacks beginning at 4:30pm

Marcil Commons, Trollwood Performing Arts School

Audition Instructions: 

Come with a prepared song. Come with a portion of memorized song, not to exceed 1.5 minutes. Choose which portion of the song best reflects your vocal range and abilities; you don’t need to start at the beginning of the song. To help us understand your ability to grasp the essence of 2024’s Mainstage Musical, please select a song from another similar musical. It’s best not to select a song from the show for which you are auditioning.

An accompanist is provided or you may bring your own. No A Cappella, please.  Bring one copy of sheet music for the accompanist. You may bring recorded instrumental accompaniment for your vocal number; however, recordings with accompanying vocals are not allowed. Auditioners should not accompany themselves.

• Be prepared to talk about yourself. The audition staff will usually ask you a few questions to get to know you better. They might ask about your recent performing experiences, why you want to be a part of this play, etc.
• Come in a dressy casual outfit for the singing part of the audition. We will be doing this part of the audition first. Remember, when you feel good about how you look you perform at a higher level.
• Bring clothes to change into that you can move in! The movement/dancing part of the audition will be second. You will learn a short dance combination, so bring something that you can be energetic in—clean, flexible-soled shoes and comfortable clothing.
• Be fully rested for your audition. Energy is that intangible force that can elevate you to that next level of excellence. When you audition, take a deep breath, focus your thoughts and energy, and GO FOR IT!

Remember to be yourself, project your voice, smile, and have fun! Break a leg!!!

Recorded Auditions:

If you are unable to audition in person, please submit your audition using one of the following methods: DVD, YouTube, Vimeo or similar online video host. All videos must be received in the Trollwood office 1 week before the in-person auditions to be considered.

Requirements: Your recorded audition can be submitted in DVD or online video format. For videos uploaded to YouTube, Vimeo, etc. please be sure they are set to “Private” and include any necessary passwords. DVDs or online videos must be labeled (titled) with the auditioner’s name. Please include with your recorded video a brief written profile, including name, address, phone, current age and grade. Also include a recent photo and resume. Online posted videos need to include a working direct link to the video and any password associated with it for access.

Click here to email us your audition video.

Record on your Video:

• Name, current age and grade, information about you and your previous experience
• A short dance combination, showing your full range of dance and movement abilities
• An audition song not to exceed 1.5 minutes, that reflects your vocal capabilities. See musical selection hints in Audition Instructions, this page
• A monologue from a scripted, published play, not to exceed 1.5 minutes

Set the stage for a symphony!

Top Reasons to Join the Orchestra:

• Meet new friends from all around the region as you rehearse and perform the musical accompaniment to the Mainstage Musical
• Improve your skills as a musician
• Learn how to perform in a musical style you may not get to experience otherwise
• Connect with many of the region’s finest musicians
• Demonstrates your commitment to music/performance for post-secondary education recruiters
• Master Classes with professional musicians—give you an opportunity for association and advanced teaching not readily available to high school students
• Be part of 100+ students all working toward the goal of making an extraordinary performance!
• Best of all—it’s FUN!

As an orchestra member at Trollwood you will work hard to provide the musical framework that creates a really great musical show, but you’ll also make life-time friends and memories while you laugh and play (as in ‘have fun!’), and create wonderful music!

Our evening rehearsal schedule allows you to take Trollwood classes, have a day job, attend Summer School, or just hang out with friends, so you CAN “have it all” this summer!

Mainstage Musical Instrumentation

All Band and Orchestra Instruments; this includes:

Don’t see your instrument on the list? Contact Trollwood to find out options for orchestra participation!

Prerequisite: By audition

​Rehearsals: Monday – Friday, June 3-25, 27, 28, 1, 2  6:00-9:30pm. Sun Celebration, June 26, time TBD. July 3rd time TBD.  July 4th-6th off. Everyday July 7-15, evening rehearsals which will begin at 6:30pm.

Conflicts must be submitted at audition. It is possible to miss limited rehearsals and still perform for shows at the director’s discretion.

Performances: July 16-20 & 23-27

Strike: Orchestra members are required to attend strike, July 29- August 2

Production Party: August 1, 7pm, Trollwood Performing Arts School

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Orchestra Auditions

Orchestra Auditions are by arrangement March 6–9 at Trollwood Performing Arts School. Please contact Nancy at 218-477-6513 to schedule your audition. If you are unable to attend these auditions, you may audition by CD, DVD, or other digital means. If you need an alternate date, please call and we will work with you to the best of our ability.

Audition Requirements

The goal of the audition is to determine your training level and ability to master the music in the allotted rehearsal time. The audition will be performed for the orchestra conductor and may be recorded for later reference.

Each audition will consist of three parts:

1. 2 scales of student’s choice
2. 2 short excerpts/solos showing different styles
3. Sightreading

Specialty Instruments

Keyboards: Two major scales of your choice (two or three octaves). Two solos of one minute in length showing different styles of music.

Percussion: Prepare a solo of approximately one minute in length for mallets, snare, timpani, and/or drum set. You may be asked to play a two-octave scale. A snare and bell set will be available on-site for auditions. If you wish to record your audition to include timpani and/or drumset, please send in your recording digitally. If you wish to hold your audition at a different location (example: your school music room), please contact Trollwood to discuss these opportunities. This could include students who would like to perform on marimba or timpani, but do so in a live audition setting.

Alternative Auditions by CD, DVD, or other Digital Means:

Your digital recording must be received in the Trollwood Office one week before auditions to be considered. You may email, mail, or drop off your recording to the Trollwood office. If you would like your recording returned, please enclose a pre-stamped and addressed padded envelope.

Requirements: Please label the recording with the auditioner’s name. Accompany it with a brief written profile, including name, address, phone, email, current age and grade, school, music teacher’s name, and audition instrument.

Include the following on your recording: Begin with an introduction of yourself: name, age and grade, information about you and your previous experiences. Please record a solo selection and scales as specified in the Audition Requirements above.

TECHNICAL THEATRE OPPORTUNITIES

We have 3 options available for our technical theatre students. Choose the program(s) that’s the best fit for you.

Mainstage Musical Tech Theatre Experience
Grades:  8th through 2024 graduated senior
Prerequisite: No previous technical theatre experience required
Dates: June 3-26, 2024

Interested high school students should sign up for the Trollwood Academy class entitled: Mainstage Musical Tech Theatre Experience.  The following technical areas are offered:  Costuming, Lighting/Sound, Set/Paint/Props, Hair/Makeup.  Be a part of bringing the Mainstage Musical to life! Sign up under Trollwood Academy on the online Trollwood Summer Registration Form.

Technical Theatre Independent Study
Grades:  8th through 2024 graduated senior
Prerequisite: Prior technical theatre experience required.  Must have worked as a technician on a minimum of 2 high school shows or have taken 2 years of Trollwood technical theatre classes.
Dates:  June 3-26, 2024

Join us to help build the colorful world of the Mainstage Musical. Areas of Technical Theatre Independent Study include Lighting, Make-up/Hair, Props, Set, Sound, & Wardrobe. Watch the magic be created behind the scenes!  To sign up, check the box marked “Technical Theatre Independent Study under the Mainstage Musical section of the Trollwood Summer Registration Form. Please indicate your area of interest on the form. The department head of your chosen area will work with you to create your ideal schedule!

Technical Run Crew
Grades:  Grade 8 through 2024 graduated senior
Prerequisite: Previous technical theatre experience
Dates: July 7 -August 2, 2024

Run Crew members are students who operate equipment and carry out various technical theatre functions of the Mainstage Musical during performances. Running crew members work in the following areas:

Wardrobe crew assists with quick changes during the performance and manages costume care.

Lighting crew is responsible for running lights for the show, to provide mood and spirit to each scene.

Makeup/Hair crew transforms their peers with new faces and hair styles.

Props crew assists with the management of the props during the run of the show.

Set crew is responsible for executing scenic shifts during performances.

Sound crew assures the audience can hear all the performers.

To sign up, check the box marked “Technical Run Crew” under the Mainstage Musical section of the Trollwood Summer Registration Form. Please indicate your area of interest.  Team members’ running crew roles are determined by department heads, who consider the student’s dedication to learning, their performance throughout construction sessions, and their ability to handle responsibility.

If you are interested in being on a Technical Run Crew, it is strongly recommended that you also sign up for either “Mainstage Musical Technical Theatre Experience”  or  “Technical Theatre Independent Study” if your schedule allows.

IMPORTANT NOTES

​Safety Practices: All technical theatre study work is carried out using strict safety practices. Therefore, students must complete safety instruction on the care and use of all hand and power tools, equipment, and materials prior to being allowed to use them. Students will be expected to use hand tools, power tools and machines, electrical equipment, computers, paint, chemicals, foam, and other construction materials appropriate to the area of study as part of their coursework.

Any student who abuses or misuses any Trollwood tools, equipment, or materials will not be allowed further access to the item, which may affect their ability to complete required coursework and thus may be dismissed from the program.

Students are required to wear safety gear (protective eye wear, ear protection, etc.) and follow safe operating procedures for all tools, equipment and materials used at Trollwood.

Foot Wear: Proper footwear must be worn during all technical theatre classes and work or construction sessions to ensure maximum safety for participants. Proper footwear consists of closed toe and covered heel shoes, and may include athletic shoes, boots, loafers or street shoes. Proper footwear should form to the foot and not be “loose,” nor allow for movement of the foot inside the shoe. Sandals, flip flops, open-backed, and some slip-on shoes are not adequate footwear for technical theatre classes and work sessions.

Standards & Benchmarks

Mainstage Musical
Grades 8-12 (during the 2023-2024 school year)

The Mainstage Musical offers cross-curricular arts education and training to high school students.  It also provides valuable performance experience and unique, differentiated instruction tailored to the needs of every student.  The multiple curricular areas and applicable standards and benchmarks are listed below.  Not all standards and benchmarks are addressed at every opportunity, but a significant number of standards and benchmarks within multiple disciplines are represented.

Music

Standard 1: Singing
Students sing, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music.

9-12.1.1. Sing with expression and technical accuracy.
9-12.1.2. Sing music written in four or more parts, with and without accompaniment.
9-12.1.3. Sing in small ensembles with one student per part.

Standard 2: Instrumental Performance (Orchestra only)
Students perform on instruments, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music.

9-12.2.1. Perform on an instrument, alone, and in small and large groups.
9-12.2.2. Perform with expression and technical accuracy on a string, wind, percussion, or classroom.

Standard 3: Improvisation
Students improvise melodies, variations, and accompaniments.

9-12.3.1. Improvise stylistically appropriate harmonizing parts.
9-12.3.2. Improvise rhythmic and melodic variations.

Standard 4: Composition
Students compose and arrange music within specified guidelines.

*This standard is not applicable in Mainstage Musical

Standard 5: Reading Music
Students read and notate music.

9-12.5.1. Know how to read a score of up to four staves.

Standard 6: Listening
Students listen to, analyze, and describe music.

9-12.6.1. Know the uses of the elements of music in the analysis of compositions representing diverse genres and cultures.
9-12.6.2. Understand technical vocabulary of music.

Standard 7: Evaluating Music
Students evaluate music and music performances.

9-12.7.2. Evaluate a given musical work in terms of its aesthetic qualities.

Standard 8: Music and Other Disciplines
Students understand the relationship between music, the other arts, and other disciplines.

9-12.8.1. Know how artistic elements and processes are used in similar and distinctive ways in the various arts.
9-12.8.2. Understand the ways in which the principles and concepts of various disciplines outside the arts are related to those of music.

Standard 9: Music, History, and Culture
Students understand music in relation to history and culture.

9-12.9.2. Know sources of American music, the evolution of these genres, and musicians associated with them.
9-12.9.3. Know various roles that musicians perform and representative individuals who have functioned in each role.

Drama

Standard 1: Dramatic Literature
Students comprehend a wide variety of dramatic literature.

9-12.1.1. Know elements of dramatic literature.
9-12.1.3. Understand the impact of choice of medium.

Standard 2: Acting
Students use fundamental acting skills.

9-12.2.1.Understand the physical, emotional, and social dimensions of characters found in dramatic texts from various genres and media.
9-12.2.2. Know various classical and contemporary acting techniques and methods.
9-12.2.3. Know how characters as an ensemble communicate with audiences.

Standard 3: Production
Students use fundamental production skills.

9-12.3.1. Use technical elements to design a production plan for a scene or play.
9-12.3.2. Perform publicly and house management duties.
9-12.3.3. Manage a technical element of a scene or play.

Standard 4: Cultural Context of Drama
Students understand drama’s role in cultural and human experiences.

9-12.4.1. Know the historical, social, and cultural factors that influence the theatre.

Standard 5: Consumer of Theatre
Students understand how to be knowledgeable consumers of theatre.

9-12.5.1. Understand the relationship between production elements and the director’s interpretation of the playwright’s script.
9-12.5.2. Understand the relationship of background research for a production to the audience’s comprehension and enjoyment of the production.

Standard 6: Drama and Human Development
Students understand the role of theatre in human development.

9-12.6.1. Use Understand how drama influences the development of creative thinking skills, critical thinking skills, and social skills throughout one’s life.

Standard 7: Drama and Other Disciplines
Students understand the connections between drama and other disciplines.

9-12.7.1. Know how elements of drama are used in similar and distinctive ways in various arts.
9-12.7.2. Know the ways in which drama influences other disciplines.
9-12.7.3. Know the ways in which other disciplines influence drama.

Dance

Standard 1: Movement Elements
Students understand the role of movement elements and skills in dance.

9-12.1.1. Use appropriate technique in dance.
9-12.1.2. Know complex steps and patterns from various dance styles and traditions.
9-12.1.3. Understand the importance of using various complex time elements.
9-12.1.4. Understand the principles governing combinations and variations in a broad dynamic range.
9-12.1.5. Understand why it is important to project in dance.

Standard 2: Choreography
Students understand choreographic principles, processes, and structures.

9-12.2.1. Understand the importance of structures and forms of movement.
9-12.2.2. Understand the use of improvisation to generate movement.

Standard 3: Dance and Meaning
Students understand dance as a way to create and communicate meaning.

9-12.3.1. Understand how movement choices are used to relate abstract ideas and themes in dance.
9-12.3.2. Understand how interpretation of dance can be influenced by personal experience.

Standard 4: Dance and Thinking Skills
Students apply critical and creative thinking skills in dance.

9-12.4.1. Establish a set of aesthetic criteria for evaluation.
9-12.4.2. Formulate and answer aesthetic questions.

Standard 5: Dance, History, and Culture
Students understand the historical development of dance and its relationship to various cultures.

9-12.5.1. Know the similarities and differences among various contemporary theatrical forms of dance.
9-12.5.2. Know dance pioneers as an index to the artistic and social values of civilization.
9-12.5.3. Understand how dance and dancers are portrayed in contemporary media.
9-12.5.4. Know the traditions and techniques of classical dance forms.

Standard 6: Dance and Personal Wellness
Students understand the connection between dance and personal wellness.

9-12.6.1. Know how lifestyle choices affect dancers.

Standard 7: Dance and Other Disciplines
Students understand the connections between dance and other disciplines.

9-12.7.1. Know how dance is similar to and different from other disciplines.
9-12.7.2. Know how technology can be used to reinforce, enhance, or alter dances.

Download The Addams Family Poster PDF

Synopsis from Music Theatre International:

The “Greatest Movie Musical of All Time” is faithfully and lovingly adapted by Broadway legends, Betty Comden and Adolph Green, from their original award-winning screenplay in Singin’ in the Rain. Each unforgettable scene, song and dance is accounted for, including the show-stopping title number, complete with an onstage rainstorm! Hilarious situations, snappy dialogue and a hit-parade score of Hollywood standards make Singin’ in the Rain the perfect entertainment for any fan of the golden age of movie musicals. Singin’ in the Rain has all the makings of a Tinseltown tabloid headline – the starlet, the leading man and a love affair that could change lives and make or break careers! In silent movies, Don Lockwood and Lina Lamont are a hot item but, behind the scenes, things aren’t always as they appear on the big screen! Meanwhile, Lina’s squeaky voice might be the end of her career in “talking pictures” without the help of a talented young actress to do the talking and singing for her.

Singin’ in the Rain is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. Phone: 212-541-4684 Fax: 212-397-4684. www.MTIShows.com. Screenplay by Betty Comden and Adolph Green, songs by Nacio Herb Brown and Arthur Freed. Based on the classic Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer film, by special arrangement with Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures, Inc. Music published by EMI, all rights administered by Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC. (Original Movie Choreography by Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen) Produced by Arrangement With Maurice Rosenfield, Lois F. Rosenfield and Cindy Pritzker, Inc.

MAINSTAGE MUSICAL PRODUCTION TEAM

MICHAEL WALLING
Artistic Director

Michael Walling is a nationally known New York City-based stage director and arts educator. Michael has been the resident guest director for Trollwood since 1992 and is currently the Artistic Director for the Main Stage Musical. 2023 will mark the 32nd stage production Michael has directed for Trollwood. Michael was the Artistic Director of the Pit and Balcony Theatre Company in Michigan, directing 24 stage productions. He’s also served as Artistic Director for Fort Peck Theatre in Montana, directing and producing over 15 productions. For the last three decades Mr. Walling has been a frequent Guest Artist/Lecturer on the regional theatre and university stage, teaching masterclasses in stage directing and audition technique. Michael was a founding member of the Directors Company in the prestigious Goldberg Department of Dramatic Writing at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. Throughout 1992-2000, Michael directed numerous projects for the writing program.

As Artistic Director of the Mainstage Musical, Michael continues to lead a national artistic team to produce high quality professional theatre while inspiring thousands of our local students through the discipline of arts education. Because of Michael’s continuous dedication to our community, it was announced in 2001 by the mayor of Fargo that from this day on, July 18th would officially be “Michael Walling Day” in Fargo ND.

Michael’s Trollwood directing credits include: 1992-Oklahoma, 1993-Anything Goes, 1994-Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, 1995-West Side Story, 1996-Guys and Dolls, 1997-A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, 1998-42nd Street, 1999-Jesus Christ Superstar, 2000-Damn Yankees, 2001-Crazy for You, 2002-Footloose, 2003-Les Misérables, 2004-Kiss Me, Kate, 2005-Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, 2006-Fiddler on the Roof, 2007-Thoroughly Modern Millie, 2008-Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, 2009-The Wiz, 2010-Anything Goes, 2011-The Music Man, 2012-Legally Blonde The Musical, 2013-Shrek The Musical, 2014-How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, 2015-Mary Poppins, 2016-Disney’s The Little Mermaid, 2017-Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, 2018-Hello, Dolly!, 2019-Freaky Friday!, 2021 – Cinderella.  Michael will direct the 2023 Mainstage Musical, Singin’ in the Rain!

JACK MEHLER
Scenery & Lighting Designer

Jack Mehler has designed lighting and scenery for theatre, dance, opera and corporate events for over twenty years based in New York. He was the 2013 recipient of the Korean Musical Theatre Award for Lighting Design of the year (the Korean Tony) for Rebecca and the 2012 recipient for Elisabeth. Notable recent projects include Marie Antoinette for EMK International in Seoul, Billy Elliot for Ogunquit Playhouse and premieres for The Joffrey Ballet, Lar Lubovitch, and Ballet Memphis. His work for TPAS began in 1996 with the scenery design for Guys and Dolls and he has designed scenery and/or lighting for 22 TPAS productions. He was an owner’s consultant for the Trollwood New Home which opened in 2009. His work has also been seen with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, Donald Byrd/Spectrum Dance, Cleveland Play House, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Manhattan Theatre Club, Northshore Music Theatre, Seattle Rep, Spoleto Festival (Italy), Paper Mill Playhouse, The WPA Theatre and many others. Jack lives in Bronxville, NY with his wife Marguerite and their children Patrick, Ben, and Katherine.

MICHAEL ESTANICH
Choreographer

Michael Estanich is the Artistic Director of the Chicago based dance theatre company, RE|dance group. Since 2009 RE|dance group has been presenting work in nationally recognized dance festivals throughout the United States. In summer of 2016, RE|dance group was invited to present its seminal duet Abbot & Viv at the New Dance for Asia International Dance Festival in Seoul, South Korea. Michael is also a Professor of Dance at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. He teaches modern dance, composition, dance pedagogy, movement analysis and dance history. He earned his MFA from The Ohio State University and his BFA from Denison University. His creative research currently examines ideas of space, architecture, landscape and habitation often resulting in dances supported by sculptural environments. Michael’s professional performance credits include Molly Shanahan/Mad Shak, Cerulean Dance Theatre, Rebecca Rosen, Melanie Bales, Bebe Miller, a reconstruction of Mark Morris’ choreography All Fours, and Susan Marshall’s ARMS. He is the North Central Regional Director of American College Dance Association (ACDA). Michael has been a part of the Trollwood Performing Arts School dance faculty since 2006, serving as the department chair since 2010, and the choreographer for the Mainstage Musical since 2015.

ELIZA LEWIS-O’CONNOR
Vocal Director

Eliza Lewis-O’Connor, originally from Fargo, ND teaches at Wayzata High School where she co-conducts four choirs, leads the WHS Chamber Singers, and teaches AP Music Theory. Prior to her time in Wayzata, Eliza conducted choirs and vocal directed the 9-12 musicals in White Bear Lake. Choirs under her direction have consistently earned superior ratings at large group contests, and she is an active member of ACDA and MMEA. In 2022 she was honored with the ACDA-MN Emerging Conductor Award. Eliza earned her bachelor of music degree in Vocal Music Education from St. Olaf College and her master of music degree in Choral Conducting from Northern Arizona University. Eliza has served as the vocal director for the Mainstage musicals at Trollwood Performing Arts School since 2013. She is a former Trollwood student and was the vocal student leader for two summers. When she is not conducting choirs or vocal directing musicals, Eliza enjoys laughing and singing with her husband, Isaac, and daughter, Freya!

SUE JORDAHL
Orchestra Director

Sue Jordahl has been a part of the Trollwood family filling multiple roles for more than 20 years. Sue is delighted to work as the Trollwood Performing Arts School Pit Orchestra Director for the seventh year.  Previous work with the Pit Orchestra includes being the lead keyboardist and a mentor since 1995.  Sue has been part of the Trollwood faculty where she has taught classes for both Trollwood Academy and Totally Trollwood Academy, as well accompanying dozens of Trollwood Academy classes over the years.  Sue holds a Master of Education degree from NDSU.   Currently, Sue is an instructor at West Fargo High School where she teaches band and is very involved in the musicals put on by the school. She also participates in the pit orchestras of other area high schools. In addition, she  is the organist/keyboardist and hand bell director for her church. During the year, Sue plays percussion with the Lake Agassiz Concert Band. Sue’s entire family has been involved at Trollwood over the years, as her husband, two children, and son-in-law have all been members of the Trollwood Pit Orchestra and her children are Trollwood alums.

ANDY SEGAL
Technical Director

Andrew Segal is the Technical Coordinator for the Fargo School District theaters. He moved here from Colorado in 2022 to be the Technical Director for Totally Trollwood and Trollwood Children’s Theatre. He oversees the Bluestem Stage, Fargo North, South, and Davies High School Technical Directors and the middle school theaters. Prior to his arrival to the area, he was the Technical Director for Windsor High School and University Schools in Colorado. He also taught Middle School Stem and Math. He has been involved with theater since the early 1980’s as an actor, director, teacher, theater manager, and technical director. As an entrepreneur he was the Creative Director for a theater school he created to provide additional theater training for students ages 6-18. His passion is Shakespeare, in fact, he directed a middle school production of Romeo and Juliet at Trollwood, on the old barn stage back in 1993, after one of the many Fargo floods tried to wipe out Trollwood park. Andrew is glad to be back in the area, despite the freezing temperatures, with his dog Lucy. He looks forward to the schools reaching new theatrical heights, and summers of fantastic productions on the Bluestem Stage.

JORDAN JONES
Stage Manager

Jordan “J.J.” Jones is pleased to be joining the Trollwood family once again after having a blast stage managing 2019’s Freaky Friday and 2021’s Cinderella. J.J. is a graduate student at the University of Iowa pursuing her MFA in Stage Management. Some of her favorite non-Trollwood musical credits to stage manage have been Children of Eden, Guys and Dolls, Hairspray, The Little Mermaid, and Oklahoma!. She is looking forward to another fantastic summer!

ELIZABETH SARSFIELD
Assistant Stage Manager/Deck Chief

Elizabeth Sarsfield is a recent graduate in theatre arts with a focus in Stage Management from the University of Iowa. Recently she has worked on productions of The Bacchae and Something Rotten!. She is excited to be spending the summer at Trollwood!

COURTNEY WINKELMAN
Scenic Charge Artist

Courtney (she/her) is THRILLED to be returning to Trollwood for her third summer! She currently lives in Atlanta, GA where she is a freelance Scenic Artist, and works at The Fabulous Fox Theatre in Guest Experience as well as serving on the Accessibility Committee. Courtney graduated in 2016 with a BFA in Theatre: Design & Technology from Auburn University. She also completed a Scenic Art intensive at Cobalt Studios in 2013, and was The Scenic Artist Apprentice at Steppenwolf Theatre Co. for their 2019-2020 season. Other Scenic Art credits include: The Pillowman, Doubt (The Gift Theatre); A Chorus Line, Billy Elliot, Memphis (Porchlight Music Theatre); Freaky Friday, Hello Dolly! (Trollwood Performing Arts); James and the Giant Peach, Elf (Drury Lane Theatre); and 5 seasons at Texas Shakespeare Festival. Courtney recently worked on her first feature film, Jess Plus None as the Assistant Production Designer and has painted for shows including: The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, CMA Awards, and productions at Walt Disney World. Courtney is the proud daughter of Mike and Val Winkelman and is so thankful for all their love and support over the years. War Eagle!

JULES CABRERA
Lighting Technician

This is Jules Cabrera’s first season with Trollwood Performing Arts School, and she’s excited to join the fun! Jules has just graduated with a B.F.A. in Technical Production from Texas State University and is eager to pursue a career in lighting design. She plans to soon attend graduate school and earn her M.F.A. so she may become a professor in the future. Jules has worked as a theatre electrician for over seven years, both in school and professionally, has assistant lighting designed four shows in university, and designed two of her own in the past year. Jules’ home base is Austin, TX.

JORDYN COZART
Master Electrician

Jordyn Cozart is a second year graduate student at University of Nevada Las Vegas. She is a graduate of Indiana University South Bend, where she received her BFA in Design and Technology with a concentration in Lighting Design. She is originally from Fort Collins, Colorado. Some of her favorite credits include; Lighting Designer for Incognito, Evil Dead: The Musical, and Amahl and the Night Visitors.

NOVA CASILLO
Props Designer

Nova Grayson Casillo (they/them/theirs) primarily designs and constructs theatrical props. They live for unique challenges, working with ever-changing materials, and the unlimited potential to learn and research. Nova has a passion for producing green, accessible, highly-collaborative, and provoking theatre. This includes more recent pursuits in clowning and street performance. Outside of their theatrical pursuits, Nova volunteers on the Board of Directors for RESCU Foundation Inc., manages an arts program for Safe Space Cumberland, and enjoys collecting antiques and oddities. (Portfolio: NovaGraysonCasillo.com)

STELLA VATNSDAL
Assistant Costume Shop Manager

Stella Vatnsdal is currently studying to get her Master’s of Fine Arts in Scenography from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She holds a degree in Scenic Design and Costume Design from the University of Minnesota Duluth. A Minnesota native, she is excited to be back in the area to work this summer!

ERIN ROE
Rehearsal Accompanist

Erin Roe is a pianist living in Minneapolis, MN. She’s excited to be joining the creative team at Trollwood to work on her ninth mainstage musical! Erin teaches piano and theory to a wide range of students in the Twin Cities. She works regularly with many adult choirs and congregations in the Twin Cities as well as the Robbinsdale Cooper High School and White Bear Lake High School choir programs. Erin occasionally serves as music conductor for community musical productions within the Twin Cities and performs regularly in both solo and chamber settings. She holds a Bachelor of Music Degree in Piano Performance from St. Olaf College.

KASEE ARNETT
Lead Cutter/Draper

KASEE ARNETT (Lead Cutter/Draper) Hazard, KY; 2023 MFA Theatre Design Graduate from Michigan State University. Kasee focuses on Costume and Scenic Design. Her past works for MSU: Charlotte’s Web (Costumes), Corktown, Or Through the Valley of Dry Bones (Scenic), HIT THE WALL (Costumes), and A Contemporary American’s Guide To A Successful Marriage (Scenic). Honorable mentions: KCACTF National Scenic Design Award Distinguished Achievement and KCACTF Region III Theatre Design Excellence Scenic Design for A Contemporary American’s Guide To A Successful Marriage. “I want to thank all of you for supporting the arts. Theatre is my home and without you this wouldn’t be possible. Thank you for allowing us another opportunity to do what we love and will continue to do for all time.” Shout out to my partner V-lie and my various supporting family and friends, “I love you!” To see her past and recent works, please visit: www.kaseearnett.com  

NICHOLAS CHRISTENSEN
Audio Director

Nicholas Christensen is a professional audio engineer and sound designer focused in theatre. He graduated from Full Sail University in 2021 and has been designing and engineering in theatre ever since. During his time he has worked on such productions as Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story, Ring of Fire, The Play That Goes Wrong, The Legend of Georgia McBride, Annie, Beauty and The Beast, The Little Mermaid, as well as multiple children’s theatre productions at Florida Studio Theatre in Sarasota, Florida. He is incredibly excited to be a part of Trollwood Performing Arts School’s production of Singin’ in the Rain and to be returning to Florida Studio Theatre at the end of the summer to act as their Sound Supervisor.

MANDA APONY-MORIARTY
Costume Shop Manager

Manda Apony-Moriarty (she/they) is an actor, solo performer, director, and costumer who has been involved with the theatre for over 20 years. She has her bachelor’s degree in theatre and music from Muhlenberg College, and her master’s in theatre from Villanova University. She currently serves as the costume shop manager at the University of Missouri in Columbia. Costume design credits include The Wolves at the University of Missouri in April 2023, and Hookman at Villanova University in January 2020.

SAVANNAH MATEYKA
Sound Technician

Savannah Mateyka is a recent BFA Technical Theatre and Design with a focus in sound design and audio engineering graduate from West Virginia University. She has her Associates degree in Theatre from Northampton Community College in Pennsylvania. Her most recent projects were sound designer and audio engineer for WVU’s 2023 production of Bright Star and WVU’s 2022 production of Carrie: The Musical. She is so excited to be here at Trollwood for this summer and to be a part of this amazing company and crew! Can’t wait to see what this summer brings!

BRYAN DUNCAN
Production Manager

Bryan has been the Campus Lighting Director at Concordia College for the past 32 years. In 2005, 2009, and 2013 he was honored as an Exhibition Finalist in the World Stage Design competition in Toronto, Seoul, and Cardiff, respectively. Several of Bryan’s lighting designs have been honored by the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival including designs for The Diviners, The Adding Machine, Pippin, and West Side Story. Bryan is also the lighting designer for the 2-time Regional Emmy © Award-winning Concordia Christmas Concerts. He returns for his 12th season at Trollwood and looks forward to a fantastic summer!

MARY McCLUNG
Costume Designer

Mary McClung is returning for a third season after designing Mary Poppins and The Little Mermaid for Trollwood.  She has designed costumes, puppets, and sets for theatre, video, and television. Companies include Disney, Children’s Television Workshop, Universal Studios, Dallas Children’s Theatre, The Idaho Repertory Theatre, and The Colorado Shakespeare Festival.  Professional design credits include As You Like It, The Dining Room, A Christmas Carol, Twelfth Night, The Tempest, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Sesamo Barrio (Sesame Street, Spain), and The Big Friendly Giant. Currently, she is a Professor of Costume Design at West Virginia University. Designs while at WVU include Guys and Dolls, Jekyll and Hyde, Caucasian Chalk Circle, Dracula, Another Part of the Forest, Hamlet, Henry IV, The Life of Insects, and multiple seasons for the School of Dance.

CEDAR REMMEN
Lighting Director

Cedar has previously worked with Trollwood Mainstage, Totally Trollwood, and Trollwood Children’s Theatre on the scenic side of the show. He is excited to take on a new role as Lighting Director. He is currently working as the Technical Director at Concordia College and as a freelance lighting designer. He received his BFA in Design from North Dakota State University in 2019 and has worked with countless local theatres since. He is excited to be joining the Mainstage production team.

MARA LAHREN
Wig Designer

Hello! My name is Mara Lahren and I am currently studying Nursing at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Although theatre is not my career path, I enjoy doing Hair and Makeup for companies in Fargo-Moorhead. I first started my hair and makeup journey at Trollwood for Mary Poppins summer of 2015 and ever since then I have stuck with it! I grew up here at Trollwood and I am so excited to continue my journey here as the Wig Designer for this summer’s production of Singin’ in the Rain!

TIMOTHY NORRIS
Stitcher/Wardrobe Crew

Timothy Norris graduated in 2019 from Texas State University with a BFA in Theatre Technologies. Since then he has worked in many theatres across the country as a First Hand including the Illinois Shakespeare Festival in 2018 and 2019. Great Theatre in St. Cloud Minnesota from 2019-2020 and the Alabama Shakespeare Festival from 2021-2022.

MORGAN BAILIE
Stitcher/Wardrobe Crew

Morgan Bailie is a student based in Boston. Originally from the Twin Cities, she began her theatre career in 2018. She is currently pursuing a BFA in Costume Design at Boston University School of Theatre. This year, Morgan was the Costume Designer for HALF, a new work by Valyn Lyric Turner and directed by Jayna Shoda Meyer. She also was the Wardrobe Supervisor for the BU Opera Institute’s production of Little Women. Morgan enjoys playing guitar and rewatching Twin Peaks.

ETHAN SURIANO
Carpenter & Scenic Run Crew

Ethan Suriano has recently completed his second year at North Dakota State University where he has been an active participant in their most recent theater productions (Jekyll & Hyde, Cabaret, Twelfth Night), and is working on completing his BFA in performance. A born and bred North Dakotan, Ethan is delighted to be back in Fargo and begin work as a part of Trollwood’s Carpentry Team and Scenic Run Crew where he hopes to further hone his technical theater skills.

GINNY GLASER
Makeup Designer

Ginny Glaser is a Los Angeles based performer with 20 years of experience as an actress, recording artist, and lyricist. She is a Trollwood alumnus, performing in the Mainstage Musical for five years in such roles as Dorothy (The Wiz), Millie (Thoroughly Modern Millie), Narrator (Joseph), and Hodel (Fiddler on the Roof). She’s thrilled to be with her Fargo friends and family this summer!

NICOLE SKIFTON
Orchestra Mentor – Woodwind

Nicole Skifton is in her third year as band director at Carl Ben Eielson Middle School in Fargo, where she teaches 6-8th grade students through small-group sectional classes and large-group concert bands. Nicole received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in K-12 Instrumental Music Education from Gustavus Adolphus College in Saint Peter, Minnesota. Prior to her position at Carl Ben Eielson, Nicole was director of bands at Lourdes High School – a private catholic school located in Rochester, Minnesota (her hometown). At Lourdes, Nicole taught 9th-12th grade concert band, jazz band, pep band, marching band, and directed the pit orchestra for the school’s musical productions.

Nicole first experienced the magic of Trollwood while attending the 2021 mainstage musical Cinderella, and is excited to serve as a mentor in the mainstage orchestra for the 2023 production of Singin’ In The Rain! In her spare time, Nicole likes running, drawing, and spending time with her husband Ethan and two cats.

CAST ​REHEARSALS/PERFORMANCES INFORMATION

Prerequisite: Cast participation is by audition. Students are highly encouraged to take advantage of all training opportunities available to assist you in your preparation.

Rehearsals: Monday-Friday rehearsals meet June 2 – 27 from 4:30-9:15pm.  June 28 Sun Celebration times TBD; June 29 & 30, meet 9:00am-5:00pm.  No rehearsal July 4.  Saturday rehearsals:  June 3, 10, 17, 24, and July 1 meet 9:00am-4:00pm.  July 3 & 5-12 are day and evening rehearsals, schedule TBA.  No rehearsal July 4.  Rehearsal schedule may vary as other details for summer are confirmed.  Please reserve Sundays throughout June as alternative rehearsal dates may need to be added once other events are booked in the amphitheater.

NOTE: It is discouraged to miss any rehearsals. After three excused absences, the additional days of rehearsals missed directly affects the amount of responsibility you will be given in the Mainstage Musical. Approval for an excused absence must be secured in advance through the submission of a written request and requires the approval of the Mainstage Musical Artistic Director.

Mainstage Musical cast participants who are currently in grades 8 – 12  must register for at least one Trollwood Academy class or one session of Trollwood Conservatory and assist with technical theatre needs for the musical.  Summer registration forms are available January 11th by 5:00pm.

Performances: July 13-15, 19-22, 26-29

Strike: July 30-August 4

Production Party: August 3rd, 7:00pm, Trollwood Performing Arts School

CAST AUDITION INFORMATION

Auditions are being held for the Mainstage Musical on February 25, 2023.  Sign up for an audition session by contacting Trollwood at (218) 477-6500. If you are unable to attend these auditions, you may audition via recorded video.

2023 Cast Audition Schedule:  Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your session start time to register & warm up.

February 25
1:00pm – 3:00pm
3:30pm – 5:30pm

Marcil Commons, Trollwood Performing Arts School

Audition Instructions: 

Come with a prepared song. Come with a portion of memorized song, not to exceed 1.5 minutes. Choose which portion of the song best reflects your vocal range and abilities; you don’t need to start at the beginning of the song. To help us understand your ability to grasp the essence of 2023’s Mainstage Musical, please select a song from another similar musical. It’s best not to select a song from the show for which you are auditioning.

An accompanist is provided or you may bring your own. No A Cappella, please.  Bring one copy of sheet music for the accompanist. You may bring recorded instrumental accompaniment for your vocal number; however, recordings with accompanying vocals are not allowed. Auditioners should not accompany themselves.

• Be prepared to talk about yourself. The audition staff will usually ask you a few questions to get to know you better. They might ask about your recent performing experiences, why you want to be a part of this play, etc.
• Come in a dressy casual outfit for the singing part of the audition. We will be doing this part of the audition first. Remember, when you feel good about how you look you perform at a higher level.
• Bring clothes to change into that you can move in! The movement/dancing part of the audition will be second. You will learn a short dance combination, so bring something that you can be energetic in—clean, flexible-soled shoes and comfortable clothing.
• Be fully rested for your audition. Energy is that intangible force that can elevate you to that next level of excellence. When you audition, take a deep breath, focus your thoughts and energy, and GO FOR IT!

Remember to be yourself, project your voice, smile, and have fun! Break a leg!!!

Recorded Auditions:

If you are unable to audition in person, please submit your audition using one of the following methods: DVD, YouTube, Vimeo or similar online video host. All videos must be received in the Trollwood office 1 week before the in-person auditions to be considered.

Requirements: Your recorded audition can be submitted in DVD or online video format. For videos uploaded to YouTube, Vimeo, etc. please be sure they are set to “Private” and include any necessary passwords. DVDs or online videos must be labeled (titled) with the auditioner’s name. Please include with your recorded video a brief written profile, including name, address, phone, current age and grade. Also include a recent photo and resume. Online posted videos need to include a working direct link to the video and any password associated with it for access.

Click here to email us your audition video.

Record on your Video:

• Name, current age and grade, information about you and your previous experience
• A short dance combination, showing your full range of dance and movement abilities
• An audition song not to exceed 1.5 minutes, that reflects your vocal capabilities. See musical selection hints in Audition Instructions, this page
• A monologue from a scripted, published play, not to exceed 1.5 minutes

BEING IN THE TROLLWOOD MAINSTAGE ORCHESTRA OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!

Top Reasons to Join the Orchestra…

• Meet new friends from all around the region as you rehearse and perform the musical accompaniment to the Mainstage Musical
• Improve your skills as a musician
• Learn how to perform in a musical style you may not get to experience otherwise
• Connect with many of the region’s finest musicians
• Demonstrates your commitment to music/performance for post-secondary education recruiters
• Master Classes with professional musicians—give you an opportunity for association and advanced teaching not readily available to high school students
• Be part of 100+ students all working toward the goal of making an extraordinary performance!
• Best of all—it’s FUN!

As an orchestra member at Trollwood you will work hard to provide the musical framework that creates a really great musical show, but you’ll also make life-time friends and memories while you laugh and play (as in ‘have fun!’), and create wonderful music!

Our evening rehearsal schedule allows you to take Trollwood classes, have a day job, attend Summer School, or just hang out with friends, so you CAN “have it all” this summer!

Mainstage Musical Instrumentation

All Band and Orchestra Instruments; this includes:

• Flute (and Piccolo) 1
• Flute 2
• Clarinet 1
• Clarinet 2
• Clarinet 3
• Clarinet 4
• Bass Clarinet
• Alto Sax 1
• Alto Sax 2
• Tenor Sax
• Bari Sax
• Trumpet 1
• Trumpet 2
• Trumpet 3
• Trombone 1
• Trombone 2
• Keyboard/Piano
• Violin 1
• Violin 2
• Viola
• Cello
• Bass/Tuba
• Percussion
• Don’t see your instrument on the list? Contact Trollwood to find out options for orchestra participation!

Prerequisite: By audition

Auditions:
Auditions are by arrangement.  Please contact Nancy at 218-477-6513 to schedule your audition.

​Rehearsals: Monday – Friday, June 5-30, 6:30-9:00pm. Everyday July 3, 5-12, evening rehearsals times TBA.  July 4th off.

Conflicts must be submitted at audition. It is possible to miss limited rehearsals and still perform for shows at the director’s discretion.

Performances: July 13-15, 19-22, 26-29

Strike: Orchestra members are required to attend strike, July 30-Aug 4

Production Party: August 3, 7pm, Trollwood Performing Arts School

Registration Deadline: May 25th.  If registered after May 25th, a $50 late fee is applied.

Mainstage Musical Orchestra Audition Information

Orchestra Auditions will be held at Trollwood Performing Arts School at Bluestem. If you are unable to attend these auditions, you may audition by CD, DVD, or other digital means. If you need an alternate date, please call and we will work with you to the best of our ability. Orchestra auditions will be available by appointment. Please call Trollwood, 218-477-6500, to sign up.

Auditioning by CD, DVD, or other Digital Means:

Your digital recording must be received in the Trollwood Office one week before auditions to be considered. You may email, mail, or drop off your recording to the Trollwood office. If you would like your recording returned, please enclose a pre-stamped and addressed padded envelope.

Requirements: Please label the recording with the auditioner’s name. Accompany it with a brief written profile, including name, address, phone, email, current age and grade, school, music teacher’s name, and audition instrument.

Include the following on your recording: Begin with an introduction of yourself: name, age and grade, information about you and your previous experiences. Please record a solo selection and scales as specified in Audition Requirements.

Audition Requirements
The goal of the audition is to determine your training level and ability to master the music in the allotted rehearsal time. The audition will be performed for the orchestra conductor and may be recorded for later reference.

Each audition will consist of three parts:
1. Scales:  Be prepared to play two major scales of your choice (two or three octaves) and the chromatic scale the entire range of your instrument (ascending and descending).  *Chromatic scales do not apply to string instruments.

2. Solo: Prepare a solo of your choice for approximately a minute in length. The piece may be a solo, etude, or ensemble, and may be band or orchestra music.

3. Sight Reading:This will be one or more short excerpts and will likely contain key changes, time signature changes and some counting examples.

Specialty Instruments

Keyboards: Two major scales of your choice (two or three octaves). Two solos of one minute in length showing different styles of music.

Percussion: Prepare a solo of approximately one minute in length for mallets, snare, timpani, and/or drum set. You may be asked to play a two-octave scale. A snare and bell set will be available on sight for auditions. If you wish to record your audition to include timpani and/or drumset, please send in your recording digitally. If you wish to hold your audition at a different location (example: your school music room), please contact Trollwood to discuss these opportunities. This could include students who would like to perform on marimba or timpani, but do so in a live audition setting.

TECHNICAL THEATRE OPPORTUNITIES

We have 3 options available for our technical theatre students. Choose the program(s) that’s the best fit for you.

Mainstage Musical Tech Theatre Experience
Grades:  8th through 2023 graduated senior
Prerequisite: No previous technical theatre experience required
Dates: June 5-28, 2023

Interested high school students should sign up for the Trollwood Academy class entitled: Mainstage Musical Tech Theatre Experience.  The following technical areas are offered:  Costuming, Lighting/Sound, Set/Paint/Props, Hair/Makeup.  Be a part of bringing the Mainstage Musical to life! Sign up under Trollwood Academy on the online Trollwood Summer Registration Form.

Technical Theatre Independent Study
Grades:  8th through 2023 graduated senior
Prerequisite: Prior technical theatre experience required.  Must have worked as a technician on a minimum of 2 high school shows or have taken 2 years of Trollwood technical theatre classes.
Dates:  June 5-28, 2023

Join us to help build the colorful world of the Mainstage Musical. Areas of Technical Theatre Independent Study include Lighting, Make-up/Hair, Props, Set, Sound, & Wardrobe. Watch the magic be created behind the scenes!  To sign up, check the box marked “Technical Theatre Independent Study under the Mainstage Musical section of the Trollwood Summer Registration Form. Please indicate your area of interest on the form. The department head of your chosen area will work with you to create your ideal schedule!

Technical Run Crew
Grades:  Grade 8 through 2023 graduated senior
Prerequisite: Previous technical theatre experience
Dates: July 2-August 4, 2023

Run Crew members are students who operate equipment and carry out various technical theatre functions of the Mainstage Musical during performances. Running crew members work in the following areas:

Wardrobe crew assists with quick changes during the performance and manages costume care.

Lighting crew is responsible for running lights for the show, to provide mood and spirit to each scene.

Makeup/Hair crew transforms their peers with new faces and hair styles.

Props crew assists with the management of the props during the run of the show.

Set crew is responsible for executing scenic shifts during performances.

Sound crew assures the audience can hear all the performers.

To sign up, check the box marked “Technical Run Crew” under the Mainstage Musical section of the Trollwood Summer Registration Form. Please indicate your area of interest.  Team members’ running crew roles are determined by department heads, who consider the student’s dedication to learning, their performance throughout construction sessions, and their ability to handle responsibility.

If you are interested in being on a Technical Run Crew, it is strongly recommended that you also sign up for either “Mainstage Musical Technical Theatre Experience”  or  “Technical Theatre Independent Study” if your schedule allows.

IMPORTANT NOTES

​Safety Practices: All technical theatre study work is carried out using strict safety practices. Therefore, students must complete safety instruction on the care and use of all hand and power tools, equipment, and materials prior to being allowed to use them. Students will be expected to use hand tools, power tools and machines, electrical equipment, computers, paint, chemicals, foam, and other construction materials appropriate to the area of study as part of their coursework.

Any student who abuses or misuses any Trollwood tools, equipment, or materials will not be allowed further access to the item, which may affect their ability to complete required coursework and thus may be dismissed from the program.

Students are required to wear safety gear (protective eye wear, ear protection, etc.) and follow safe operating procedures for all tools, equipment and materials used at Trollwood.

Foot Wear: Proper footwear must be worn during all technical theatre classes and work or construction sessions to ensure maximum safety for participants. Proper footwear consists of closed toe and covered heel shoes, and may include athletic shoes, boots, loafers or street shoes. Proper footwear should form to the foot and not be “loose,” nor allow for movement of the foot inside the shoe. Sandals, flip flops, open-backed, and some slip-on shoes are not adequate footwear for technical theatre classes and work sessions.

Trollwood Performing Arts School is committed to safety and will monitor COVID-19 guidelines. Trollwood reserves the right to alter or cancel programming if deemed necessary. In the event of cancellation due to COVID-19, Trollwood will refund program registration fees. Otherwise, all registration fees are non-refundable.

MM Standards & Benchmarks

Mainstage Musical
Grades 8-2022 graduated senior
(all grades refer to 2021-2022 school year)

The Mainstage Musical offers cross-curricular arts education and training to high school students.  It also provides valuable performance experience and unique, differentiated instruction tailored to the needs of every student.  The multiple curricular areas and applicable standards and benchmarks are listed below.  Not all standards and benchmarks are addressed in every opportunity, but a significant number of standards and benchmarks within multiple disciplines are represented.

Music

Standard 1: Singing
Students sing, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music.

9-12.1.1. Sing with expression and technical accuracy.
9-12.1.2. Sing music written in four or more parts, with and without accompaniment.
9-12.1.3. Sing in small ensembles with one student per part.

Standard 2: Instrumental Performance (Orchestra only)
Students perform on instruments, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music.

9-12.2.1. Perform on an instrument, alone and in small and large groups.
9-12.2.2. Perform with expression and technical accuracy on a string, wind, percussion, or classroom.

Standard 3: Improvisation
Students improvise melodies, variations, and accompaniments.

9-12.3.1. Improvise stylistically appropriate harmonizing parts.
9-12.3.2. Improvise rhythmic and melodic variations.

Standard 4: Composition
Students compose and arrange music within specified guidelines.

*This standard is not applicable in Mainstage Musical

Standard 5: Reading Music
Students read and notate music.

9-12.5.1. Know how to read a score of up to four staves.

Standard 6: Listening
Students listen to, analyze, and describe music.

9-12.6.1. Know the uses of the elements of music in the analysis of compositions representing diverse genres and cultures.
9-12.6.2. Understand technical vocabulary of music.

Standard 7: Evaluating Music
Students evaluate music and music performances.

9-12.7.2. Evaluate a given musical work in terms of its aesthetic qualities.

Standard 8: Music and Other Disciplines
Students understand the relationship between music, the other arts, and other disciplines.

9-12.8.1. Know how artistic elements and processes are used in similar and distinctive ways in the various arts.
9-12.8.2. Understand the ways in which the principles and concepts of various disciplines outside the arts are related to those of music.

Standard 9: Music, History, and Culture
Students understand music in relation to history and culture.

9-12.9.2. Know sources of American music, the evolution of these genres, and musicians associated with them.
9-12.9.3. Know various roles that musicians perform and representative individuals who have functioned in each role.

Drama

Standard 1: Dramatic Literature
Students comprehend a wide variety of dramatic literature.

9-12.1.1. Know elements of dramatic literature.
9-12.1.3. Understand the impact of choice of medium.

Standard 2: Acting
Students use fundamental acting skills.

9-12.2.1.Understand the physical, emotional, and social dimensions of characters found in dramatic texts from various genres and media.
9-12.2.2. Know various classical and contemporary acting techniques and methods.
9-12.2.3. Know how characters as an ensemble communicate with audiences.

Standard 3: Production
Students use fundamental production skills.

9-12.3.1. Use technical elements to design a production plan for a scene or play.
9-12.3.2. Perform publicly and house management duties.
9-12.3.3. Manage a technical element of a scene or play.

Standard 4: Cultural Context of Drama
Students understand drama’s role in cultural and human experiences.

9-12.4.1. Know the historical, social, and cultural factors that influence the theatre.

Standard 5: Consumer of Theatre
Students understand how to be knowledgeable consumers of theatre.

9-12.5.1. Understand the relationship between production elements and the director’s interpretation of the playwright’s script.
9-12.5.2. Understand the relationship of background research for a production to the audience’s comprehension and enjoyment of the production.

Standard 6: Drama and Human Development
Students understand the role of theatre in human development.

9-12.6.1. Use Understand how drama influences the development of creative thinking skills, critical thinking skills, and social skills throughout one’s life.

Standard 7: Drama and Other Disciplines
Students understand the connections between drama and other disciplines.

9-12.7.1. Know how elements of drama are used in similar and distinctive ways in various arts.
9-12.7.2. Know the ways in which drama influences other disciplines.
9-12.7.3. Know the ways in which other disciplines influence drama.

Dance

Standard 1: Movement Elements
Students understand the role of movement elements and skills in dance.

9-12.1.1. Use appropriate technique in dance.
9-12.1.2. Know complex steps and patterns from various dance styles and traditions.
9-12.1.3. Understand the importance of using various complex time elements.
9-12.1.4. Understand the principles governing combinations and variations in a broad dynamic range.
9-12.1.5. Understand why it is important to project in dance.

Standard 2: Choreography
Students understand choreographic principles, processes, and structures.

9-12.2.1. Understand the importance of structures and forms of movement.
9-12.2.2. Understand the use of improvisation to generate movement.

Standard 3: Dance and Meaning
Students understand dance as a way to create and communicate meaning.

9-12.3.1. Understand how movement choices are used to relate abstract ideas and themes in dance.
9-12.3.2. Understand how interpretation of dance can be influenced by personal experience.

Standard 4: Dance and Thinking Skills
Students apply critical and creative thinking skills in dance.

9-12.4.1. Establish a set of aesthetic criteria for evaluation.
9-12.4.2. Formulate and answer aesthetic questions.

Standard 5: Dance, History, and Culture
Students understand the historical development of dance and its relationship to various cultures.

9-12.5.1. Know the similarities and differences among various contemporary theatrical forms of dance.
9-12.5.2. Know dance pioneers as an index to the artistic and social values of civilization.
9-12.5.3. Understand how dance and dancers are portrayed in contemporary media.
9-12.5.4. Know the traditions and techniques of classical dance forms.

Standard 6: Dance and Personal Wellness
Students understand the connection between dance and personal wellness.

9-12.6.1. Know how lifestyle choices affect dancers.

Standard 7: Dance and Other Disciplines
Students understand the connections between dance and other disciplines.

9-12.7.1. Know how dance is similar to and different from other disciplines.
9-12.7.2. Know how technology can be used to reinforce, enhance, or alter dances.

Nacio Herb Brown

Nacio Herb Brown (22 February 1896- 28 September 1964) was a United States songwriter.

Brown was born as Ignacio Herb Brown in Deming, New Mexico. He graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles.

He was a successful writer of popular songs, and Broadway theater music in the 1920s, originally doing this as a sideline to his financially successful career in California Real Estate. In 1928 he was hired to work in Hollywood by MGM and write movie music for the new medium of sound film. For his film work, he often collaborated with lyricist Arthur Freed.

He appears in the film The Hollywood Revue of 1929.

In the 1930s he was married to actress Anita Page. Brown’s hits included “Fit as a Fiddle and Ready for Love”, “Pagan Love Song”, “Singin’ in the Rain”, “Wedding of the Painted Doll”, and “You Are My Lucky Star”.

Nacio Herb Brown died in San Francisco, California.

Brown is an inductee of the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

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Arthur Freed

Arthur Freed (September 9, 1894 – April 12, 1973) was born in Charleston, South Carolina. He was a lyricist and a Hollywood film producer.

Freed began his career in vaudeville, and he appeared with the likes of the Marx Brothers. He soon began to write songs, and was eventually hired by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. For years, he wrote lyrics for numerous films.

In 1939 he was promoted to the position of producer, and helped elevate MGM as the studio of the musical. Freed choose to surround himself with film directors such as Vincente Minnelli and Busby Berkeley. He also helped shape the careers of stars like Judy Garland and Gene Kelly. His team of writers, directors, composers and stars came to be known as the “Freed Unit” and produced a steady stream of popular, critically acclaimed musicals that lasted until the late 1950s.

Freed served as associate producer on THE WIZARD OF OZ.

His most famous song is “Singin’ in the Rain,” and two of his films won the Academy Award for Best Picture. Those being, AN AMERICAN IN PARIS (1951) and GIGI (1958).

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Betty Comden & Adolph Green

The team of Betty Comden and Adolph Green, 1991 recipients of the Kennedy Center Honors, and the longest running creative partnership in theatre history, began writing and performing their own satirical comic material in a group called The Revuers, which included the late Judy Holliday. They went on to collaborate with Leonard Bernstein and Jerome Robbins on what was the first show for all of them, “On The Town.” Also with Mr. Bernstein they collaborated on the score for “Wonderful Town.” With Jule Styne they wrote the book and/or lyrics for “Bells Are Ringing,” “Do Re Mi,” “Subways Are For Sleeping,” “Peter Pan” and others. They also wrote the book for “Applause,” the book and lyrics for “On the Twenith Century” and the lyrics for “The Will Rogers Follies,” with Cy Coleman, and “A Doll’s Life.” Five of these, “Applause,” “Hallelujah Baby,” “Wonderful Town,” “On the Twentieth Century” and “The Will Rogers Follies” won them six Tony Awards, and “A Doll’s Life,” a Tony nomination. Their many film musicals include “Singin’ in the Rain,” “The Band Wagon,” “On the Town,” “Bells are Ringing,” “It’s Always Fair Weather,” “Good News” and “The Barkleys of Broadway.” Their non-musicals include “Auntie Mame” and “What a Way To Go.” Two of these musicals, “The Band Wagon” and “It’s Always Fair Weather,” received Academy Award nominations and, along with “On The Town,” won the Screen Writers’ Guild award. “Singin’ in the Rain” was recently voted one of the ten best American films ever made and, by a vote of international film critics conducted by the prestigious magazine Sight and Sound, it was ranked third among the ten best films of all time. As performers, Comden and Green appeared in “On the Town” and later did an evening at the Golden Theatre, “A Party With Betty Comden and Adolph Green,” comprised of material from their own shows and movies, and from their act, The Revuers. In 1977 they did a new version of “A Party” to unanimous acclaim at the Morosco Theatre, and toured with it. “A Party” received an Obie Award when it was first performed. They are both members of the Council of the Dramatists Guild, have been elected to the Theatre Hall of Fame, and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and have received the Mayor of New York’s Certificate of Excellence. Ms. Comden received the Woman of the Year Award from the Alumni Association of New York University. She appeared in the films “Garbo Talks” and “Slaves of New York,” and on the stage in the Playwrights’ Horizons production of Wendy Wasserstein’s “Isn’t It Romantic?”. Mr. Green appeared in the films “Simon,” “My Favorite Year,” “Garbo Talks,” “Lily In Love” and “I Want To Go Home.” Some of their best-known songs include “Just In Time,” “The Party’s Over,” “Make Someone Happy,” “New York, New York,” “Neverland,” “It’s Love,” “Lonely Town” and “Some Other Time.” Stars they have written for in their musicals and films include Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire, Lauren Bacall, Rosalind Russell, Judy Holliday, Mary Martin, Phil Silvers, Carol Burnett and Nancy Walker.

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Music Theatre International

Music Theatre International (MTI) is one of the world’s leading theatrical licensing agencies, granting theatres from around the world the rights to perform the greatest selection of musicals from Broadway and beyond. Founded in 1952 by composer Frank Loesser and orchestrator Don Walker, MTI is a driving force in advancing musical theatre as a vibrant and engaging art form.

MTI works directly with the composers, lyricists and book writers of these musicals to provide official scripts, musical materials and dynamic theatrical resources to over 100,000 professional, community and school theatres in the US and in over 150 countries worldwide.

MTI is particularly dedicated to educational theatre, and has created special collections to meet the needs of various types of performers and audiences. MTI’s Broadway Junior™ shows are 30- and 60-minute musicals for performance by elementary and middle school-aged performers, while MTI’s School Editions are musicals annotated for performance by high school students.

FREE Shuttle to and from Mainstage Musical

FREE shuttles will be offered for all productions of Trollwood Performing Arts School’s Mainstage Musical thanks to a partnership with the City of Moorhead MATBUS system. Shuttle parking and pickup will be located at the Azool Hornbacher’s parking lot in Moorhead before and after shows. All MATBUS riders are required to wear masks. If you do not have a mask available, MATBUS will provide one for you.

What: Free MATBUS shuttle to and from Mainstage Musical

When: All productions; July 14-16, July 20-23, and July 27-30, 2022

• Preshow shuttles run from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• Post show shuttles begin after show ends

Where: Parking located at Azool Hornbacher’s, 950 40th Ave. S., Moorhead

MAINSTAGE MUSICAL PRODUCTION TEAM

MICHAEL WALLING
Artistic Director

Michael Walling is a nationally known New York City-based stage director and arts educator. Michael has been the resident guest director for Trollwood since 1992 and is currently the Artistic Director for the Main Stage Musical. 2021 will mark the 30th stage production Michael has directed for Trollwood. Michael was the Artistic Director of the Pit and Balcony Theatre Company in Michigan, directing 24 stage productions. He’s also served as Artistic Director for Fort Peck Theatre in Montana, directing and producing over 15 productions. For the last three decades Mr. Walling has been a frequent Guest Artist/Lecture on the regional theatre and university stage. Teaching masterclass’s in stage directing and audition technique. Michael was a founding member of the Directors Company in the prestigious Goldberg Department of Dramatic Writing at NYU’s Tish School of the Arts. Throughout 1992-2000, Michael directed numerous of projects for the writing program.

As Artistic Director of the Mainstage Musical, Michael continues to lead a national artistic team to produce high quality professional theatre while inspiring thousands of our local students through the discipline of arts education. Because of Michael’s continuous dedication to our community, it was announced in 2001 by the mayor of Fargo that from this day on, July 18th would officially be “Michael Walling Day” in Fargo ND.

Michael’s Trollwood directing credits include: 1992-Oklahoma, 1993-Anything Goes, 1994-Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, 1995-West Side Story, 1996-Guys and Dolls, 1997-A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, 1998-42nd Street, 1999-Jesus Christ Superstar, 2000-Damn Yankees, 2001-Crazy for You, 2002-Footloose, 2003-Les Misérables, 2004-Kiss Me, Kate, 2005-Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, 2006-Fiddler on the Roof, 2007-Thoroughly Modern Millie, 2008-Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, 2009-The Wiz, 2010-Anything Goes, 2011-The Music Man, 2012-Legally Blonde The Musical, 2013-Shrek The Musical, 2014-How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, 2015-Mary Poppins, 2016-Disney’s The Little Mermaid, 2017-Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, 2018-Hello, Dolly!, 2019-Freaky Friday!, 2021 – Cinderella.  Michael will direct the 2022 Mainstage Musical, title to be announced soon!

JACK MEHLER
Scenery & Lighting Designer

Jack Mehler has designed lighting and scenery for theatre, dance, opera and corporate events for over twenty years based in New York. He was the 2013 recipient of the Korean Musical Theatre Award for Lighting Design of the year (the Korean Tony) for Rebecca and the 2012 recipient for Elisabeth. Notable recent projects include Marie Antoinette for EMK International in Seoul, Billy Elliot for Ogunquit Playhouse and premieres for The Joffrey Ballet, Lar Lubovitch, and Ballet Memphis. His work for TPAS began in 1996 with the scenery design for Guys and Dolls and he has designed scenery and/or lighting for 22 TPAS productions. He was an owner’s consultant for the Trollwood New Home which opened in 2009. His work has also been seen with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, Donald Byrd/Spectrum Dance, Cleveland Play House, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Manhattan Theatre Club, Northshore Music Theatre, Seattle Rep, Spoleto Festival (Italy), Paper Mill Playhouse, The WPA Theatre and many others. Jack lives in Bronxville, NY with his wife Marguerite and their children Patrick, Ben, and Katherine.

KIAH CORRIN
Costume Lead Cutter/Draper

Kiah is very excited to be returning for her third year on the Trollwood Mainstage Musical costume team! After graduating with a BFA from the University of South Dakota, Kiah worked as a stitcher/dresser for Freaky Friday in 2019 and as Costume Lead Cutter/Draper for Cinderella in 2021. When Kiah is not working at Trollwood she runs her own small business making custom dancewear in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She enjoys listening to podcasts, video games, weightlifting, ice cream, and fostering cats!

ARIA DURSO
Hair & Makeup Designer

Aria Durso is a Professionally trained Wig Master and SFX artist. Originally from Nashville, Aria Studied SFX makeup at Joe Blasco Makeup Center East in Orlando Florida, before moving to Philadelphia to apprentice in wardrobe and wigs at The Walnut Street Theatre. Aria toured for years with various touring productions, including 2 years as Wig Master for The Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella 2nd National Tour. She is currently pursuing her Masters Degree in Information Sciences at the University of Knoxville, Tennessee. She lives in New York with her husband Peter and her tiny cat, Eponine.

MICHAEL ESTANICH
Choreographer

Michael Estanich is the Artistic Director of the Chicago based dance theatre company, RE|dance group. Since 2009 RE|dance group has been presenting work in nationally recognized dance festivals throughout the United States. In summer of 2016, RE|dance group was invited to present its seminal duet Abbot & Viv at the New Dance for Asia International Dance Festival in Seoul, South Korea. Michael is also a Professor of Dance at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. He teaches modern dance, composition, dance pedagogy, movement analysis and dance history. He earned his MFA from The Ohio State University and his BFA from Denison University. His creative research currently examines ideas of space, architecture, landscape and habitation often resulting in dances supported by sculptural environments. Michael’s professional performance credits include Molly Shanahan/Mad Shak, Cerulean Dance Theatre, Rebecca Rosen, Melanie Bales, Bebe Miller, a reconstruction of Mark Morris’ choreography All Fours, and Susan Marshall’s ARMS. He is the North Central Regional Director of American College Dance Association (ACDA). Michael has been a part of the Trollwood Performing Arts School dance faculty since 2006, serving as the department chair since 2010, and the choreographer for the Mainstage Musical since 2015.

JORDAN JONES
Stage Manager

Jordan “J.J.” Jones is pleased to be joining the Trollwood family once again after having a blast stage managing 2019’s Freaky Friday and last year’s Cinderella. J.J. works full time at the Leslie S. Wright Performing Arts Center on Samford University’s campus located in Birmingham, AL. Spending most of her time assistant managing the venue, she is most excited to dive back in to working on the production of a great musical. Some of her favorite musical credits to stage manage have been Children of Eden, Guys and Dolls, Hairspray, The Little Mermaid, and Oklahoma!. She is looking forward to another fantastic summer!

LYDIA KABZINSKI
Assistant Costume Shop Manager/Wardrobe Head

Lydia Kabzinski is thrilled to be back in the Trollwood family again this summer after working on 2019’s Freaky Friday production and last year’s Cinderella as the Assistant Costume Shop Manager and Wardrobe Head! Lydia graduated from Morehead State University in the spring of 2020 with a Bachelor’s degree in Theatre, and she is excited to continue her work in the arts!

ISABEL SAMUEL
Master Electrician

Isabel is going into her third year as a lighting MFA student at Illinois State University. She recently was the Assistant Lighting Supervisor at North Shore Music Theatre, as well as a freelance designer and electrician in the Boston area. Favorite design credits include The Little Mermaid (North Attleborough High School) and Driving Miss Daisy (The Barnstormers). Isabel received her BFA in theatrical design from Salem State University. She wants to thank Katie Whittemore for convincing her to join the team at Trollwood. Isabel can also be found at: isabelsamuel.com

ELIZA SNORTLAND
Vocal Director

Eliza Snortland is the director of choirs at White Bear Lake Area High School-North Campus where she conducts five choirs, assists two others, and vocal directs the musicals. She recently completed her graduate studies at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, AZ. While pursuing her Master of Music in Choral Conducting, she also directed the NAU University Singers, co-directed the NAU Chamber Singers, and chorus mastered two lyric theatre productions. Prior to moving to Arizona, Eliza conducted 6th-8th grade choirs at Central Middle School in White Bear Lake, MN and sang with the semi-professional ensemble, Magnum Chorum, based out of the Twin Cities. For the past eight summers, Eliza has served as the vocal director for the Mainstage Musicals at Trollwood Performing Arts School. She is a former Trollwood student and was the vocal student leader for two summers. Eliza is also a graduate of Saint Olaf College, where she earned her Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Music Education. She sang and toured nationally with the St. Olaf Choir and served as the alto section leader. When she is not conducting choirs or vocal directing musicals, Eliza enjoys arranging choral music and cooking!
KATIE WHITTEMORE
Lighting Director

Katie Whittemore is very excited to return to Trollwood this summer after joining the team for Freaky Friday in 2019 and Cinderella in 2021. She is based in NYC, where she works as a freelance lighting designer. She most recently was the Assistant Lighting Designer for An American in Paris (National Tour), and on Menopause: the Musical (Ogunquit Playhouse). She was also the Associate Lighting Designer for Matilda (Engeman Theatre), and Elf (The Gateway). Her recent design work includes Fen (Columbia University), Mother of Pearl (Rough Draft Theatre Festival), Steerage (Columbia University) and A Burning Church (New Ohio Theater). Before moving to NYC, Katie was the Lighting Supervisor at North Shore Music Theatre in Massachusetts for two years, where she had the pleasure to serve as Jack Mehler’s associate on multiple productions. She received her BFA with a concentration in Lighting Design from Salem State University in 2016.  She now lives in the Washington Heights area with her husband Corey and their two cats.  katiewhittemoredesign.com

CAST ​REHEARSALS/PERFORMANCES INFORMATION

Prerequisite: Cast participation is by audition. Auditions are being held February 19 & 20, 2022 at Trollwood Performing Arts School. Call Trollwood at 218-477-6500 to sign up for an audition time slot on one of those dates.  Callbacks will be held at Trollwood on February 21 and 22.  Students are highly encouraged to take advantage of all training opportunities available to assist you in your preparation. Please consider the Trollwood Winter Academy Audition Workshop January 30th, or for more intensive training, the Musical Theatre Audition Prep class January 9-February 13th.

Rehearsal: Monday–Friday rehearsals meet June 1-28 from 4:30-9:15pm; June 29, Sun Celebration times TBD; June 30, July 1 meet 9:00am to 5:00pm. No rehearsal July 2, 3, or 4. Saturday rehearsals: June 4, 11, 18, & 25 meet 9 am – 4 pm. Tech Week rehearsals daily July 5-13, these are day and evening rehearsals, schedule TBA. Rehearsal schedule may vary as other details for summer are confirmed. Please reserve Sundays throughout June as alternative rehearsal dates may need to be added once other events are booked in the amphitheater.

Monday, July 5 – Tech Week begins

Cast members have a responsibility to the Mainstage Musical and must attend ALL scheduled meetings, rehearsals and performances between May 31–August 5.

NOTE: It is discouraged to miss any rehearsals. After three excused absences, the additional days of rehearsals missed directly affects the amount of responsibility you will be given in the Mainstage Musical. Approval for an excused absence must be secured in advance through the submission of a written request and requires the approval of the Mainstage Musical Artistic Director.

Mainstage Musical cast participants who are currently in grades 8 – 12 (as of 2021-2020 school year) must register for at least one Trollwood Academy class or one session of Trollwood Conservatory and assist with technical theatre needs for the musical.  Summer registration forms available early January 2022. 

Performances: July 14-16, 20-23, 27-30.  Showtime: 8:30 pm each night.

Strike: Cast members are REQUIRED to attend strike August 1-5.

Production Party: All students are invited to celebrate their success at a production party, August 4, 7:00 pm, Marcil Commons, Trollwood Performing Arts School at Bluestem. Strike participation is required to attend.

CAST AUDITION INFORMATION

Full auditions will be held for the 2022 Mainstage Musical on February 19 & 20, 2022.  Sign up for an audition session by contacting Trollwood at (218) 477-6500. If you are unable to attend these auditions, you may audition via recorded video.

2022 Cast Audition Schedule:  Please arrive 20 minutes prior to your session start time to register & warm up.

February 19
10:00am – 12:00pm
1:00pm – 3:00pm
3:30pm – 5:30pm
7:00pm – 9:00pm

February 20
1:00pm – 3:00pm
3:30pm – 5:30pm
7:00pm – 9:00pm

Marcil Commons, Trollwood Performing Arts School

Dance Callbacks: 

February 21
4:00pm-6:00pm
7:30pm-9:30pm

Marcil Commons, Trollwood Performing Arts School

Vocal/Acting Callbacks:

February 22
4:30pm-until completed (usually around 7:00pm or earlier)

Marcil Commons, Trollwood Performing Arts School

Callback and Cast Lists will be emailed to participants, date and time to be determined.

Audition Instructions: 

Come with a prepared song. Come with a portion of memorized song, not to exceed 1.5 minutes. Choose which portion of the song best reflects your vocal range and abilities; you don’t need to start at the beginning of the song. To help us understand your ability to grasp the essence of 2022’s Mainstage Musical, please select a song from another similar musical. It’s best not to select a song from the show for which you are auditioning.

An accompanist is provided or you may bring your own. No A Cappella, please.  Bring one copy of sheet music for the accompanist. You may bring recorded instrumental accompaniment for your vocal number; however, recordings with accompanying vocals are not allowed. Auditioners should not accompany themselves.

• Be prepared to talk about yourself. The audition staff will usually ask you a few questions to get to know you better. They might ask about your recent performing experiences, why you want to be a part of this play, etc.
• Come in a dressy casual outfit for the singing part of the audition. We will be doing this part of the audition first. Remember, when you feel good about how you look you perform at a higher level.
• Bring clothes you can move in! The movement/dancing part of the audition will be second. You will learn a short dance combination, so bring something that you can be energetic in—clean, flexible-soled shoes and comfortable clothing.
• Be fully rested for your audition. Energy is that intangible force that can elevate you to that next level of excellence. When you audition, take a deep breath, focus your thoughts and energy, and GO FOR IT!

Remember to be yourself, project your voice, smile, and have fun! Break a leg!!!

Recorded Auditions:

If you are unable to audition in person, please submit your audition using one of the following methods: DVD, YouTube, Vimeo or similar online video host. All videos must be received in the Trollwood office 1 week before the in-person auditions to be considered.

Requirements: Your recorded audition can be submitted in DVD or online video format. For videos uploaded to YouTube, Vimeo, etc. please be sure they are set to “Private” and include any necessary passwords. DVDs or online videos must be labeled (titled) with the auditioner’s name. Please include with your recorded video a brief written profile, including name, address, phone, current age and grade. Also include a recent photo and resume. Online posted videos need to include a working direct link to the video and any password associated with it for access.

Click here to email us your audition video.

Record on your Video:

• Name, current age and grade, information about you and your previous experience
• A short dance combination, showing your full range of dance and movement abilities
• An audition song not to exceed 1.5 minutes, that reflects your vocal capabilities. See musical selection hints in Audition Instructions, this page
• A monologue from a scripted, published play, not to exceed 1.5 minutes

Full auditions will be held for the 2022 Mainstage Musical in Spring 2022, dates TBD.  Once the audition dates have been announced, sign up for an audition session by contacting Trollwood at (218) 477-6500. If you are unable to attend these auditions, you may audition via recorded video.

BEING IN THE TROLLWOOD MAINSTAGE ORCHESTRA OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!

Top Reasons to Join the Orchestra…

• Meet new friends from all around the region as you rehearse and perform the musical accompaniment to the Mainstage Musical
• Improve your skills as a musician
• Learn how to perform in a musical style you may not get to experience otherwise
• Connect with many of the region’s finest musicians
• Demonstrates your commitment to music/performance for post-secondary education recruiters
• Master Classes with professional musicians—give you an opportunity for association and advanced teaching not readily available to high school students
• Be part of 100+ students all working toward the goal of making an extraordinary performance!
• Best of all—it’s FUN!

As an orchestra member at Trollwood you will work hard to provide the musical framework that creates a really great musical show, but you’ll also make life-time friends and memories while you laugh and play (as in ‘have fun!’), and create wonderful music!

Our evening rehearsal schedule allows you to take Trollwood classes, have a day job, attend Summer School, or just hang out with friends, so you CAN “have it all” this summer!

Mainstage Musical Instrumentation

All Band and Orchestra Instruments; this includes:

• 1 Reed 1 (Piccolo, Flute, Alto Flute)
• 1 Reed 2 (Oboe, English Horn)
• 1 Reed 3 (Clarinet, E-Flat Clarinet, Bass Clarinet)
• 1 Reed 4 (Bassoon, Flute, Clarinet)
• 1 Horn 1
• 1 Horn 2
• 1 Trumpet 1 (Doubling Flugelhorn, Piccolo Trumpet)
• 1 Trumpet 2 (Doubling Flugelhorn)
• 1 Trombone (Doubling Bass Trombone)
• 1 Keyboard
• 1 Harp
• 1 Drums
• 1 Percussion
• 1 Violin 1 (2 Players)
• 1 Violin 2 (2 Players)
• 1 Viola
• 1 Cello
• 1 Bass

Prerequisite: By audition

Auditions:  Dates March 16-19, 2022.  Contact Trollwood Performing Arts School at 218-477-6500 to schedule your audition time once dates are set.

​Rehearsals: Orchestra rehearsals for 2022 are June 1-28, Sun Celebration June 29, June 30 & July 1, 6:00-9:00 pm, Monday–Friday, at Trollwood Performing Arts School.

Saturdays and Sundays during June are not scheduled at this time; however, additional rehearsal time may be scheduled as necessary.

Daily evening rehearsals with the cast begin Monday, July 5, Trollwood Performing Arts School at Bluestem.

Conflicts must be submitted at audition. It is possible to miss limited rehearsals and still perform for shows at the director’s discretion.

Tech Week: Daily evening rehearsals, beginning Monday, July 5, including Saturday and Sunday, through July 13.

Performances: July 14-16, 20-23, 27-30.

Strike: Orchestra members are required to attend strike, August 1-5.

Production Party: August 4, 7:00 pm, Trollwood at Bluestem, Marcil Commons

Registration Deadline: Friday, May 14. Registration remains open after this deadline. However, a $25 late fee will be assessed.

Mainstage Musical Pit Orchestra Audition Information

Pit Orchestra Auditions will be held Winter/Spring 2022, specific dates TBD.  All auditions will be held at Trollwood Performing Arts School at Bluestem. If you are unable to attend these auditions, you may audition by CD, DVD, or other digital means. If you need an alternate time, please call and we will work with you to the best of our ability.  2022 Orchestra auditions will be available by appointment, dates TBD. Please call Trollwood, 218-477-6500, to sign up for a 15 minute time slot once dates and times have been announced.

Auditioning by CD, DVD, or other Digital Means:

Your digital recording must be received in the Trollwood Office one week before auditions to be considered. You may email, mail, or drop off your recording to the Trollwood office. If you would like your recording returned, please enclose a pre-stamped and addressed padded envelope.

Requirements: Please label the recording with the auditioner’s name. Accompany it with a brief written profile, including name, address, phone, email, current age and grade, school, music teacher’s name, and audition instrument.

Include the following on your recording: Begin with an introduction of yourself: name, age and grade, information about you and your previous experiences. Please record a solo selection and scales as specified in Audition Requirements.

Audition Requirements
The goal of the audition is to determine your training level and ability to master the music in the allotted rehearsal time. The audition will be performed for the orchestra conductor and may be recorded for later reference.

Each audition will consist of three parts:
1. Scales:  Be prepared to play two major scales of your choice (two or three octaves) and the chromatic scale the entire range of your instrument (ascending and descending).  *Chromatic scales do not apply to string instruments.

2. Solo: Prepare a solo of your choice for approximately a minute in length. The piece may be a solo, etude, or ensemble, and may be band or orchestra music.

3. Sight Reading:This will be one or more short excerpts and will likely contain key changes, time signature changes and some counting examples.

Specialty Instruments

Keyboards: Two major scales of your choice (two or three octaves). Two solos of one minute in length showing different styles of music.

Percussion: Prepare a solo of approximately one minute in length for mallets, snare, timpani, and/or drum set. You may also be asked to play a two-octave scale.

TECHNICAL THEATRE OPPORTUNITIES

Grade 8 through 2022 graduated senior

(All ages refer to the 2021-2022 school year)

For Summer 2022, we have 2 options available for our technical theatre students. Choose the program(s) that’s the best fit for you and sign up for the corresponding option on the Mainstage Musical Theatre section on page 3 of the Trollwood Summer Registration Form (available early January).

Technical Theatre Independent Study
Grades:  8th through 2022 graduated senior
Prerequisite: Previous technical theatre experience
Dates: June 6-29, 2021

Join us to help build the colorful world of the Mainstage Musical. Areas of Technical Theatre Independent Study include Lighting, Make-up/Hair, Props, Set, Sound, & Wardrobe. Watch the magic be created behind the scenes!  To sign up, check the box marked “Technical Theatre Independent Study under the Mainstage Musical section on page 3 of the Trollwood Summer Registration Form (available early January). Please indicate your area of interest on the form. The department head of your chosen area will work with you to create your ideal schedule!

Technical Run Crew
Grades:  Grade 8 through 2022 graduated senior
Prerequisite: Previous technical theatre experience
Dates: July 5-August 5, 2021

Run Crew members are students who operate equipment and carry out various technical theatre functions of the Mainstage Musical during performances. Running crew members work in the following areas:

Wardrobe crew assists with quick changes during the performance and manages costume care.

Lighting crew is responsible for running lights for the show, to provide mood and spirit to each scene.

Makeup/Hair crew transforms their peers with new faces and hair styles.

Props crew assists with the management of the props during the run of the show.

Set crew is responsible for executing scenic shifts during performances.

Sound crew assures the audience can hear all the performers.

To sign up, check the box marked “Technical Run Crew” under the Mainstage Musical section on page 3 of the Trollwood Summer Registration Form. Please indicate your area of interest.  Team members’ running crew roles are determined by department heads, who consider the student’s dedication to learning, their performance throughout construction sessions, and their ability to handle responsibility.

If you are interested in being on a Technical Run Crew, it is strongly recommended that you also sign up for either “Technical Theatre Independent study if your schedule allows.

IMPORTANT NOTES

​Safety Practices: All technical theatre study work is carried out using strict safety practices. Therefore, students must complete safety instruction on the care and use of all hand and power tools, equipment, and materials prior to being allowed to use them. Students will be expected to use hand tools, power tools and machines, electrical equipment, computers, paint, chemicals, foam, and other construction materials appropriate to the area of study as part of their coursework.

Any student who abuses or misuses any Trollwood tools, equipment, or materials will not be allowed further access to the item, which may affect their ability to complete required coursework and thus may be dismissed from the program.

Students are required to wear safety gear (protective eye wear, ear protection, etc.) and follow safe operating procedures for all tools, equipment and materials used at Trollwood.

Foot Wear: Proper footwear must be worn during all technical theatre classes and work or construction sessions to ensure maximum safety for participants. Proper footwear consists of closed toe and covered heel shoes, and may include athletic shoes, boots, loafers or street shoes. Proper footwear should form to the foot and not be “loose,” nor allow for movement of the foot inside the shoe. Sandals, flip flops, open-backed, and some slip-on shoes are not adequate footwear for technical theatre classes and work sessions.

Trollwood Performing Arts School is committed to safety and will monitor COVID-19 guidelines. Trollwood reserves the right to alter or cancel programming if deemed necessary. In the event of cancellation due to COVID-19, Trollwood will refund program registration fees. Otherwise, all registration fees are non-refundable.

Mainstage Musical participants should check back here periodically throughout the summer for relevant documents.

MM Standards & Benchmarks

Mainstage Musical
Grades 8-2022 graduated senior
(all grades refer to 2021-2022 school year)

The Mainstage Musical offers cross-curricular arts education and training to high school students.  It also provides valuable performance experience and unique, differentiated instruction tailored to the needs of every student.  The multiple curricular areas and applicable standards and benchmarks are listed below.  Not all standards and benchmarks are addressed in every opportunity, but a significant number of standards and benchmarks within multiple disciplines are represented.

Music

Standard 1: Singing
Students sing, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music.

9-12.1.1. Sing with expression and technical accuracy.
9-12.1.2. Sing music written in four or more parts, with and without accompaniment.
9-12.1.3. Sing in small ensembles with one student per part.

Standard 2: Instrumental Performance (Orchestra only)
Students perform on instruments, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music.

9-12.2.1. Perform on an instrument, alone and in small and large groups.
9-12.2.2. Perform with expression and technical accuracy on a string, wind, percussion, or classroom.

Standard 3: Improvisation
Students improvise melodies, variations, and accompaniments.

9-12.3.1. Improvise stylistically appropriate harmonizing parts.
9-12.3.2. Improvise rhythmic and melodic variations.

Standard 4: Composition
Students compose and arrange music within specified guidelines.

*This standard is not applicable in Mainstage Musical

Standard 5: Reading Music
Students read and notate music.

9-12.5.1. Know how to read a score of up to four staves.

Standard 6: Listening
Students listen to, analyze, and describe music.

9-12.6.1. Know the uses of the elements of music in the analysis of compositions representing diverse genres and cultures.
9-12.6.2. Understand technical vocabulary of music.

Standard 7: Evaluating Music
Students evaluate music and music performances.

9-12.7.2. Evaluate a given musical work in terms of its aesthetic qualities.

Standard 8: Music and Other Disciplines
Students understand the relationship between music, the other arts, and other disciplines.

9-12.8.1. Know how artistic elements and processes are used in similar and distinctive ways in the various arts.
9-12.8.2. Understand the ways in which the principles and concepts of various disciplines outside the arts are related to those of music.

Standard 9: Music, History, and Culture
Students understand music in relation to history and culture.

9-12.9.2. Know sources of American music, the evolution of these genres, and musicians associated with them.
9-12.9.3. Know various roles that musicians perform and representative individuals who have functioned in each role.

Drama

Standard 1: Dramatic Literature
Students comprehend a wide variety of dramatic literature.

9-12.1.1. Know elements of dramatic literature.
9-12.1.3. Understand the impact of choice of medium.

Standard 2: Acting
Students use fundamental acting skills.

9-12.2.1.Understand the physical, emotional, and social dimensions of characters found in dramatic texts from various genres and media.
9-12.2.2. Know various classical and contemporary acting techniques and methods.
9-12.2.3. Know how characters as an ensemble communicate with audiences.

Standard 3: Production
Students use fundamental production skills.

9-12.3.1. Use technical elements to design a production plan for a scene or play.
9-12.3.2. Perform publicly and house management duties.
9-12.3.3. Manage a technical element of a scene or play.

Standard 4: Cultural Context of Drama
Students understand drama’s role in cultural and human experiences.

9-12.4.1. Know the historical, social, and cultural factors that influence the theatre.

Standard 5: Consumer of Theatre
Students understand how to be knowledgeable consumers of theatre.

9-12.5.1. Understand the relationship between production elements and the director’s interpretation of the playwright’s script.
9-12.5.2. Understand the relationship of background research for a production to the audience’s comprehension and enjoyment of the production.

Standard 6: Drama and Human Development
Students understand the role of theatre in human development.

9-12.6.1. Use Understand how drama influences the development of creative thinking skills, critical thinking skills, and social skills throughout one’s life.

Standard 7: Drama and Other Disciplines
Students understand the connections between drama and other disciplines.

9-12.7.1. Know how elements of drama are used in similar and distinctive ways in various arts.
9-12.7.2. Know the ways in which drama influences other disciplines.
9-12.7.3. Know the ways in which other disciplines influence drama.

Dance

Standard 1: Movement Elements
Students understand the role of movement elements and skills in dance.

9-12.1.1. Use appropriate technique in dance.
9-12.1.2. Know complex steps and patterns from various dance styles and traditions.
9-12.1.3. Understand the importance of using various complex time elements.
9-12.1.4. Understand the principles governing combinations and variations in a broad dynamic range.
9-12.1.5. Understand why it is important to project in dance.

Standard 2: Choreography
Students understand choreographic principles, processes, and structures.

9-12.2.1. Understand the importance of structures and forms of movement.
9-12.2.2. Understand the use of improvisation to generate movement.

Standard 3: Dance and Meaning
Students understand dance as a way to create and communicate meaning.

9-12.3.1. Understand how movement choices are used to relate abstract ideas and themes in dance.
9-12.3.2. Understand how interpretation of dance can be influenced by personal experience.

Standard 4: Dance and Thinking Skills
Students apply critical and creative thinking skills in dance.

9-12.4.1. Establish a set of aesthetic criteria for evaluation.
9-12.4.2. Formulate and answer aesthetic questions.

Standard 5: Dance, History, and Culture
Students understand the historical development of dance and its relationship to various cultures.

9-12.5.1. Know the similarities and differences among various contemporary theatrical forms of dance.
9-12.5.2. Know dance pioneers as an index to the artistic and social values of civilization.
9-12.5.3. Understand how dance and dancers are portrayed in contemporary media.
9-12.5.4. Know the traditions and techniques of classical dance forms.

Standard 6: Dance and Personal Wellness
Students understand the connection between dance and personal wellness.

9-12.6.1. Know how lifestyle choices affect dancers.

Standard 7: Dance and Other Disciplines
Students understand the connections between dance and other disciplines.

9-12.7.1. Know how dance is similar to and different from other disciplines.
9-12.7.2. Know how technology can be used to reinforce, enhance, or alter dances.