Rosie Seitz Ayers – Director, Young Frankenstein
Young Frankenstein has been on my directing bucket list show since the theatrical version first came out. As a Mel Brooks fan, I have watched this movie annually along with so many of his classics. His humor and campy style is a necessity in my world. As a child I fantasized I would grow up to be as expressive as Gene Wilder or as witty as Madeline Kahn. Alas, I have come into my own unique comedic style and feel overjoyed to share it with this cast of Young Frankenstein at MCT – I hope we make ole’ Mel proud!
We had 50 people audition—a day of gut-wrenching hilarity and creative brilliance. Watching the community come together, navigating through new characters, audition song jitters, and cold reading that left our bellies warm with laughter…it was so fulfilling. I wish the cast was bigger, but luckily there are more opportunities this season at MCT and in our local theatre community. I am always impressed with the bravery and talent in Missoula.
Abigail Gilbert – Director, Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Flying reindeer, giant puppets, snowstorms, Santa’s sleigh – Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a joyful holiday extravaganza full of whimsy, music, and nostalgia. I have fond memories of the first time I watched the Claymation movie in my grandparent’s den – the smell of hot chocolate, a fresh plate of my grandmother’s holiday cookies, and spending time with family – and audiences will feel that same sentiment when they arrive at our theatre this December. While fall has only just begun, auditions for Rudolph are already upon us on Sunday, September 24. I’m looking forward to meeting ages 10 and older to sing, dance, and spread holiday cheer. I’m excited to share this production with the folks of all ages and generations this holiday season!
Joe Martinez – Director of Rent and Disney’s Beauty and The Beast
Rent – Since I first saw Rent in the late 90’s, I knew I needed to be part of it. There’s so much more to it than people think. When it won the Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award, the theatre world changed. Stories like those told in Rent were never seen on stage before; it opened up new possibilities for theatres. Rent celebrates its 28th year in January 2024. It’s time that Missoula experiences this theatre/life changing show.
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast – in my opinion, is one of the most beautiful stage shows based on an animated film. MCT produced it in 2005; the theme is not to be deceived by appearances, for beauty lies within. All the beloved characters from the movie are present in the musical world of Belle and the Beast.
Kera Rivera – Co-Director, Rent
I’ve always loved Rent. The first version I saw was the film and I became immediately obsessed with it and learned everything I could about it. I’m looking for folks that resonate with these characters. Rent is gritty, heavy, challenging and intense while also filled with compassion. The most important thing to know for an audition is that trying is the best thing you can do, if you feel like you messed up or didn’t do what you thought you would, that’s OK!! We are here together to go on this journey and there is always room to learn and grow. Thank you so much for considering!
Sarah Walker Thornton – Director, The Play That Goes Wrong
The Play That Goes Wrong is full of funny, falling, farce, and so much intentional chaos! I’m so excited for the “riding a unicycle BACKWARDS across a burning tightrope while juggling plates blindfolded” challenge that is doing a play well about doing a play within a play… not as well… The script is hilarious, the show is non-stop silliness, and I think it will bring the house down – literally