2024 Summer Registration has ended, thanks to all who participated!

Trollwood is thrilled to bring this crowd favorite to the stage at Bluestem Amphitheater!

The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship, creating an unforgettable show. Trollwood’s production of Mamma Mia! is proudly sponsored by Bell Bank.

Performance dates: July 22-26 and July 29-August 2
Location: Trollwood Performing Arts School at Bluestem Center for the Arts, 801 50th Ave S, Moorhead, MN
Cast auditions will be held February 22 & 23, 2025 and Cast callbacks will be February 24 & 25, 2025. Orchestra auditions will be held March 15, 2025. All auditions are open to students currently in Grades 8-12. Students may sign up for an audition slot by calling 218-477-6500 or by emailing trollwood@fargo.k12.nd.us. Students may also participate as a run crew member or technician by registering for summer programming. More details about joining the cast, orchestra, or technical crew can be found by reviewing the tabs on the left.
Fees:  View forms and fee details.


MAMMA MIA!

Music & Lyrics by:

BENNY ANDERSSON

BJORN  ULVAEUS

And some songs with STIG ANDERSON     

Book by CATHERINE JOHNSON

Originally conceived by JUDY CRAYMER

MAMMA  MIA!  was originally produced in London by Judy Craymer, Richard East and Bjorn Ulvaeus for Littlestar

in assocation with Universal.  Additional material & arrangements by Martin Koch.

Music published by Universal Music Publishing Group and EMI Grove Park Music Ince. and EMI Waterford Music Inc.

MAMMA MIA!

Is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com

 


Synopsis from MTI:

Full Synopsis

Act One

On a small Greek island, we meet Sophie as she sends off three envelopes in the mail. She announces the names of the men they’re addressed to – Sam Carmichael, Bill Austin, Harry Bright. Lisa and Ali, Sophie’s friends, arrive and reveal that Sophie’s wedding is tomorrow. Sophie confesses to them that she’s invited her father to the wedding…or at least the three men who could possibly be her father. After going through her mother’s diary from the year she got pregnant, Sophie has determined that Sam, Bill, and Harry are the candidates to walk her down the aisle.

Donna, Sophie’s mother, greets her lifelong friends Tanya and Rosie, who have just showed up for the wedding. The trio used to perform as the group Donna and The Dynamos. Running the Taverna, an inn on the island, Donna laments constantly working.

Sam, Harry, and Bill arrive at the Taverna. Sophie greets them, shocked to see them all there. Spotting his old guitar, Harry begins to strum a tune and Sophie joins him. Sophie admits to them that she was the one who sent the invitations. Sam is clearly distressed by this. Just as Sophie is about to take them to their rooms, Donna comes out and sees them all there. Once she sees Sam, she is overcome with mixed emotions.

Rosie and Tanya try to console Donna. Donna tells them that although she always told them that Sam was Sophie’s father, she wasn’t really sure. She also tells them that Sam and the two other men who might be the father are at the Taverna. Rosie and Tanya rouse Donna’s spirits, telling her that the Donna who used to be the life of the party is still inside her.

Sophie asks Sky, her fiancé, to promise her he will never leave her like her father left Donna. Sky promises his constant love to her before Eddie and other friends lead him off for his stag night.

At Sophie’s “hen night” (bachelorette party), Donna, Tanya, and Rosie perform in their old costumes as Donna and The Dynamos. Sam, Bill, and Harry show up, and Sophie lets them join the fun. Sophie gets a moment alone with Sam, who asks her why she’s invited him to the wedding. Sophie, unable to tell him the truth, dances with Harry and tells him she does not know who her dad is. Before he can respond, Harry is whisked away by dancers. Bill gets to dance with Sophie, who tells him that his great-aunt Sophia was the one who left Donna the money for the Taverna in her will. Once Bill learns how old Sophie is, he has an epiphany, but Sophie is taken away by the party dancers before either can say anything else.

Bill and Sophie have another moment alone. Bill tells Sophie to come clean to Donna about trying to find her father. Sophie tells him she’s tired of secrecy. She asks him to give her away at the wedding and to let it be a surprise for Donna. Bill agrees.

Sky and his stag party return and join Sophie’s bachelorette festivities. Sam takes Sophie aside and declares that he will give her away, clearly convinced he’s her father. Before Sophie can object, they are swept up in the dancing. Harry then takes Sophie aside and claims that he will be the one to give her away. Overwhelmed, Sophie breaks away from the dance in a state of shock.

Act Two

The curtain comes up on Sophie having a nightmare about her anxiety over her three prospective fathers and wakes up in distress.

Donna thinks Sophie is upset because she secretly wants to call the wedding off. Sophie fires back that she would never want to raise a child without a father figure and storms off. Donna is left alone, feeling hurt and full of regrets. Sam approaches Donna, and they look back on how things used to be between them.

Pepper, one of Sky’s friends, approaches Tanya on the beach and tries to flirt with her. Tanya chides him and tells him off. Sophie finds Sky and confesses to him about her plan to bring Sam, Bill, and Harry to the wedding. Sky accuses her of using their wedding as a ploy to find her father and walks off. Sophie tries to go after him, but Sam stops her. Sam explains to Sophie that he left Donna to get married and have kids, only to end up divorced and remorseful for settling down too young. Sophie, convinced that her love for Sky is stronger, leaves him to find Sky.

Harry finds Donna and offers her a check to help pay for the wedding. They reminisce about their time together years ago. Sophie enters with her wedding dress and asks Donna to help her get ready. Donna gets her daughter in her wedding dress, seeing her little girl all grown up. Sophie asks Donna to be the one to give her away. After Sophie leaves, Sam comes in and tells Donna he should walk Sophie down the aisle. Donna refuses to hear it and tell him he’s done enough to her.

Bill comes to Rosie and tells her of his anxiety over marriage and children, having sworn a life of adventure. Seeing a kindred spirit, Rosie woos him. Bill is about to succumb when guests arrive for the wedding.

Donna walks Sophie down the aisle. As the ceremony is about to start, Donna announces that Sophie’s father is present but doesn’t know which man he is. Sam, Bill, and Harry are bewildered. Harry says he is overjoyed to be one of Sophie’s three dads and admits to Donna that he is now in a committed relationship with a man back home. Sophie proposes to Sky that they not get married and instead go see the world. With a priest still present, Sam proposes to Donna, who accepts. There ends up being a wedding after all!

The show ends with Sky and Sophie leaving the island to go on a new adventure together.

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

MORGAN HEMGROVE
Shop Foreman

Morgan Hemgrove (They/Them) is a Technical Direction student at Indiana University. Their previous work includes: OrlandoInto the WoodsThe 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 Harrell

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

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

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

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

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

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

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, June 5th 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 June 6 – July 1, running Monday – Friday, from 4:00-9:00pm.  July 2 Sun Celebration times TBD; July 3, 9-4pm.  Saturday rehearsals are June 7, 14, 21, 28, July 12 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 6!  Rehearsals resume July 7 and continue through July 21 times TBD. 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 8th by 5:00pm.

Performances: July 22-26 & July 29-August 2

Strike:  August 4, times TBD

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


Cast Auditions

Auditions are being held for the Mainstage Musical on February 22nd & 23rd, 2025.  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.

2025 Cast Audition SchedulePlease arrive 15 minutes prior to your session start time to register & warm up.

February 22nd
9:30-11:30am
1:00pm-3:00pm
3:30pm-5:30pm

February 23rd
1:00-3:00pm
3:30-5:30pm
7:00-9:00pm

Marcil Commons, Trollwood Performing Arts School

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

Feb. 24 Dance Callbacks time TBD
Feb. 25 Acting/Vocal Callbacks time TBD

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 2025’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:

  • Reed 1
  • Reed 2
  • Trumpet
  • Trombone
  • Guitar
  • Keyboard 1
  • Keyboard 2
  • Drums
  • Percussion
  • Bass
  • Cello
  • Violin
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


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
Grades8th 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.