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Welcome!

We are thrilled to have you with us for the 54th season of PRT. This season has something for everyone. Thank you for letting us be part of your summer. With your patronage, you are helping PRT fulfill its two-part mission: 1) Provide intensive training for students in the company, and 2) Provide the Best possible entertainment for all. 

We are happy to bring back our popular PRT+ program that allows you to see our productions in a new way. These FREE events include opening night receptions, cast meet and greets, backstage tours and more. To see a full list of events, visit PrairieRep.org. 

New this year, we are partnering with South Dakota Shakespeare Festival to host their production of 'Romeo & Juliet'. Taking place on SDSU's Sylvan Green, this show will provide an outside entertainment experience for patrons, and will feature Brookings natives, SDSU students, and PRT alums. The partnership between PRT and South Dakota Shakespeare Festival was mainly brought upon by the working relationship with PRT alum and director of Romeo & Juliet, Mike Lee. Outdoor theatre creates an unique experience impossible to recreate on our mainstage. We look forward to this new and exciting partnership with South Dakota Shakespeare Festival.

We greatly appreciate your participation with our company. Many of our friends provide tax-deductible donations. Others provide in-kind contributions of food, properties, and costume items. Others serve on the PRT Advisory Board. Please contact us if you wish to play a greater "role" with PRT.

On behalf of the 2025 company, thank you very much and enjoy the show!

Warm Regards,

Billy Wilburn

PRT Artistic Director

Greetings!

Every summer, Jane and I look forward to enjoying the time and theatrical talents on display courtesy of Prairie Repertory Theatre (PRT). This will be the 54th season of PRT providing wonderful entertainment throughout the summer months. PRT has a rich history of gathering individuals of all ages from across the Brookings region to enjoy a series of fantastic performances. Jane and I, along with the Brookings community look forward with great expectation for the start of this new season!

In addition to providing outstanding entertainment for its patrons, PRT delivers the best possible opportunities for our students to gain real-life skills in the production world. Between the hands-on training in all facets of theatrical production including marketing, coordinating, ticketing, acting, set design and construction, and costumes, it provides an immeasurable experience that sticks with our students for a lifetime. It also provides a unique opportunity for students to work and perform alongside alumni of both South Dakota State University and Prairie Repertory Theatre.

With a wide variety of plays, including musicals, classic, and madcap farce, the summer of 2025 will be sure to offer something for everyone to enjoy. On behalf of SDSU, we are grateful for your support of Prairie Repertory Theatre.

Enjoy the shows!

Barry H. Dunn
President
South Dakota State University

Song List

Act I

"Overture" - Orchestra

“Opening Act I” – Adam

“Bless Your Beautiful Hide” – Adam

“Wonderful, Wonderful Day” – Milly, Brides, Mrs. Hoallum, Mrs. Sander

“I Married Seven Brothers” – Milly

“Goin' Courtin'” – Milly, Brothers

“Polite Reel’” – Company

“Challenge Dance” – Company

“Cut-In Dance” – Company

“The Fight” – Brothers, Suitors

“Love Never Goes Away” – Adam, Milly, Gideon

"Sobbin' Women" – Adam, Brothers

There will be one fifteen minute intermission.

Act II

“Entr'acte” – Orchestra

“The Kidnapping” – Company

“Where Were You?” – Adam

"We Gotta Make It Through the Winter" - Brothers

“We Gotta Make It (Reprise)/Lonesome Polecat” – Milly, Brothers, Brides

“Spring Dance” – Brothers, Brides

"Am I Stubborn?" - Adam

“Glad That You Were Born” – Milly, Brides, Brothers

“Love Never Goes Away (Reprise)” – Adam

“The Chase” – Company

“Wonderful Day (Reprise)” – Adam, Milly

“Wedding Dance/Finale” – Company

Cast

Production Team

Musicians

Conductor - Dr. David Reynolds

Concertmaster  - Corby Shelsta

Violin II - Teresa Conrad

Viola - Pat Pickard 

Double Bass - Cameron Anderson

Flute - Emily Hofer

Oboe/English Horn - Emma Jensen

Clarinet - Lauren Harstad 

Bassoon - Brennan Mason 

Trumpet I - William Reynolds

Trumpet II - Mason LeMaster

Horn I - Teri Ronning 

Horn II - Grant Sternhagen 

Trombone - Thomas Reynolds 

Keyboards - Dr. Anna DeGraff

Banjo/Guitar - Kelbe Fode

Percussion - Louis Whitehead

The 2025 PRT Company

First Row (L to R): Billy Wilburn, Isabel Blom, Jennika Bunney, Lewhat Tesfaldet, Peyten Wiese, Morgan Foote, Maiah Brown, Alyza Pike, Sara Gushue, Hannah Hetland, Ally Armstrong, Angel Qualset, Mattisyn McDonnell, Riley Sazdoff, Melissa Hauschild-Mork. Middle Row (L to R): Anna DeGraff, Cody Lee Crist, Dontaevain Aldridge, Thomas Alpers, Chase Thedens, Camryn Caruso, Silla Muehr, Maddie Perry, Abigayle Davis, Barbara Gonzalez, Kirynn Engelbrecht, Noah Ong Bamola, Gerrit VonEye, Jack Diamant, Emi Imre-Fecske, Journey Johnson. Back Row (L to R): Jacee Casarella, Casey Paradies, Jim Wood, Emily Ganfield, Joshua Barclay, Christian Broekemeier, Eli Zagurski, Kally Brinkman, Kendall Morris, Evan Anderson, Eve Vogel, Anna Rubey, Clay Hull, Jacob Stevens, Hugh Paul, Carl Steinlicht, Alyssa VanLandingham, Amilia Baca, Alex Strawn, Rylinn Dale, Sam Clark, Nick Teal, Kim Johnson, Corey Shelsta. Not Pictured: Emma Arends-Montes, Christina Castillo, Noah Files, Luke Granholm, Brooklyn Mauch, Emma Niswander, Shawn Stemsrud, Jacob Wallace.

Shop Staff

Prairie Repertory Theatre is a collaborative experience. We offer a wide variety of education for both actors and technicians. Each company member works in a designated production shop for all 4 shows. This means that every actor on stage has also helped build costumes and scenic pieces, hang lights, and sell tickets! PRT prides itself in providing intensive training alongside quality entertainment.

Scene Shop - Dontaevian Aldridge, Amilia Baca, Joshua Barclay, Christian Broekemeier, Rylinn Dale, Jack Diamant, Morgan Foote, Hannah Hetland, Priscilla Muehr, Emma Niswander, Maddie Perry, Carl Steinlicht, Alex Strawn, Nick Teal, Chase Thedens, Eli Zagurski

Costume Shop - Isabel Blom, Kally Brinkman, Jennika Bunney, Kirynn Engelbrecht, Barbara Gonzalez, Emi Imre-Fecske, Journey Johnson, Matti McDonnell, Alyza Pike, Angel Qualset

Properties Shop - Clay Hull, Reilly Sazdoff, Alyssa VanLandingham, Eve Vogel

Lighting & Sound Shop - Thomas Alpers, Sam Clark, Cody Lee Crist, Abigayle Jo Davis, Kendall Morris

Box Office & Publicity - Evan Anderson, Ally Armstrong, Maiah Brown, Camryn Caruso, Sara Gushue, Brooklyn Mauch, Noah Ong Bamola, Hugh Paul, Anna Rubey, Jacob Stevens, Lewhat Tesfaldet, Gerrit VonEye, Peyten Wiese

SDSU Credits

SDSU Theatre & Dance

W. James Wood, Artistic Director, Professor/Directing

Corey Shelsta, Professor/Scenic & Lighting Design

Billy Wilburn, Associate Professor/Costume Design/Artistic Director PRT

Dr. Melissa Hauschild-Mork, Associate Professor/Director of Dance Ensembles

Casey Paradies, Instructor/Acting

Kim Johnson, Scenic/Properties Shop Supervisor

Dr. James L. Johnson, Distinguished Professor Emeritus

J.D. Ackman & Raymond Peterson, Professor Emeritus

College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences

Dr. David C. Earnest, Dean - College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences

Dr. David Reynolds, Director - School of Performing Arts

Christina Castillo, Larson Family Endowed Director of the Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center

Meet the Company

Camryn Caruso

Milly

Camryn is so excited to return to PRT for her second summer playing some of her DREAM roles! You may have previously seen her in PRT's Cinderella as Queen Constantina last summer. Camryn is an upcoming junior at Drake University where she most recently played Vivienne Kensington in Legally Blonde, Karen in Fugitive Songs, and Oscar/Ensemble in 42nd Street. When not on the stage, Camryn enjoys marketing/publicity, playing with her two basset hounds, and juggling! She is VP of a student organization known as Drake Theatre People and loves spreading the beauty of theatre wherever she goes. She is so grateful to her family, friends, teachers, and everyone who has helped her chase her dreams thus far. Enjoy the shows and thank you for being here! @camryncaruso

Jacob Stevens

Adam

Jacob is going into his senior year at SDSU and as a seasoned member of the State University Theatre, having performed in Bright Star, Macbeth, Fuddy Meers, The Escape Thingy, Newsies, and The Hunchback of Notre Dame. He is passionate about both acting and music. Jacob is eager to continue growing in his craft while contributing to the success of future productions. When not on stage, Jacob enjoys quality time with friends, hiking, and time spent outside. His future goal is to pursue a career in musical theatre. This is Jacob's first summer doing Prairie Rep, and he couldn't be more excited!

Chase Thedens

Benjamin

This is Chase’s first year doing PRT. He has been in multiple shows at SDSU including Newsies, James and the Giant Peach, Macbeth, and Brightstar. In his free time he enjoys singing, hanging out with friends, going to the gym, playing golf, and playing video games. He is really excited for this summer of performing.

Noah Ong Bamola

Caleb

Noah Ong Bamola is excited and grateful to make his PRT debut! He studies Musical Theatre at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. Recently, he originated a role Off-Broadway in Ohio Play, appeared regionally in Woodstock Playhouse’s 2024 season, and starred in Playwright’s Horizons’ John and Jen. When not performing, Noah enjoys hiking, karaoke, and reading a good book.

Dontaevian Aldridge

Daniel

Dontaevian is the newest addition to the PRT family, and he is very excited to make his debut. During his first year at SDSU, he portrayed Lennox in Macbeth, a Ringmaster in Fuddymeers, and Max in Brightstar. His high school credits include Rueben in Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Judge Gaffney in Harvey, Danny Mcguire in Xanadu, a child in I Never Saw Another Butterfly, Jamal in Escape to Margaritaville, an Ancestor in The Addams Family Musical, and Wadsworth/The Butler in Clue. When he is not working on homework or in a production, Dontaevian's hobbies consist of hunting, fishing, playing his harmonica, listening to country music, and helping his family.

Joshua Barclay

Ephraim

Joshua is elated to debut in his first PRT season! Some of Joshua's favorite past roles include: Sebastian (The Little Mermaid), Jesse Tuck (Tuck Everlasting), Actor for Kohl's Wild Theatre at the Milwaukee County Zoo, and Kevin (Heroes of the Fourth Turning) in which he received an Irene Ryan nomination. Away from the theatre, Joshua enjoys baseball scouting, musical writing, figure skating, and photography. He's a true 'Disney adult' and always looks forward to his next trip to Disney World. Joshua gives a special thanks to his friends and family for their love and support.

Lewhat Tesfaldet

Frank

Lewhat has just completed his junior year as a Theatre major at SDSU and is thrilled to be spending his first summer with PRT. Some of his favorite past roles at SDSU include Chuck in She Kills Monsters, Quasimodo in The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Davey in Newsies. Outside of theatre, Lewhat enjoys singing, working in the box office and publicity, watching movies, working out, and spending time with friends and family. This summer, he’s looking forward to new experiences, building connections, and putting on great shows as a part of PRT.

Gerrit VonEye

Gideon

This is Gerrit's first summer at Prairie Repertory Theatre! His State University Theatre credits include The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Newsies, James and the Giant Peach, Fuddy Meers, Macbeth, and Bright Star. In his free time, Gerrit enjoys staying active outside, traveling, watching movies, working at Kool Beans Coffee, and buying lego sets that he doesn't need. He also loves making music with his siblings and leading worship at Oasis college ministry. Gerrit aspires to be a professional actor onstage or onscreen, and he is looking forward to a fun summer making art with friends!

Isabel Blom

Alice

Isabel is making her debut at PRT this summer! She will be a Junior in college when the fall semester starts. Coming from a small private high school, she doesn’t have a lot of theatre experience under her belt, but she is looking to expand her knowledge of the craft this summer at PRT. During her sophomore year of college, she appeared in Shakespeare’s Macbeth and the bluegrass musical Bright Star. Her dream job is working in the TV and film industry as an actress. Besides theatre, she enjoys singing, reading, watching movies, and listening to music. She is so excited to laugh, learn, and grow at PRT this summer!

Alyssa Van Landingham

Dorcus

Alyssa is beyond excited to embark on her first ever Prairie Repertory Theatre summer season! She is currently a rising senior at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee for musical theatre. She is looking forward to making some wonderful memories with her cast members, performing in a state she has never been to before, and overall taking skills she has learned in school and applying them to a big stage. When not working in a theater, Alyssa loves to hike, ski, and be outdoors!

Kally Brinkman

Ruth

This is Kally’s PRT debut. Her theatre credits at South Dakota State University include acting in Brightstar, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Macbeth as well as working in the costume shop and growing a passion for designing wigs. After graduation, Kally hopes to continue her passion for theatre, dance, and music in the professional world, which has been her dream since she was little. When not at the theatre, she enjoys writing songs, reading, sewing, dancing, and playing cards. Kally dedicates her performances to her amazing family, who have supported her since her first performance 18 years ago.

Maiah Brown

Liza

Maiah is making her PRT debut this summer, but she is no stranger to the Oscar Larson stage. Going into her senior year as a Dance Minor at SDSU, she has performed in four State University dance productions as well as their staging of Newsies. She joined Prairie Rep to continue exploring her passion for theatrical dance, with hopes of pursuing a career in the dance field. On the rare occasion Maiah is not dancing, you can find her singing in the SDSU Concert Choir, teaching spin classes, watching movies, baking, or keeping up on reality television with her friends.

Abigayle Davis

Martha

Abigayle Jo is a recent graduate from SDSU and a PRT alum. This will be her 4th season here, where she has been involved as both a technician and a performer. Some of her work includes lighting designs for Cemetery Club (2022) and See How They Run (2023), as well as appearing onstage in the Ensemble of Footloose (2022) and Oklahoma (2023). During her last year here she was in the production of Macbeth, did sound design for Turn of The Screw, and did lighting design for Fuddy Meers and Brightstar. Abigayle hopes that after PRT to be working with a touring group to see the world while doing what she loves.

Hannah Hetland

Sarah

Hannah is happy to be returning to the PRT stage. This will be her second summer with the Prairie Repertory Theatre. Past PRT shows for her include The Play That Goes Wrong, Peter and the Starcatcher, and Footloose. Most recently, Hannah was seen in Brightstar and Macbeth at South Dakota State University, where she attended. She aspires to continue performing in both theater and dance in the future. Hannah is excited for this summer and to have the opportunity to perform with her friends again.

Hugh Paul

Nathan

Hugh Paul is a recent graduate from the Stephens College Conservatory for the Performing Arts and is excited to be making his Prairie Repertory Theatre debut! He was just recently in the world premiere of Snow White and Me, a new musical, and is ecstatic to be going into his first post-college professional job. When he is not singing or dancing, he can be found reading, going on walks, and snuggling his cat.

Jack Diamant

Matt

Jack is making his Prairie Rep debut in Grease and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. His regional credits include The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, Once Upon a Mattress, Hello, Dolly!, and School of Rock. Outside of theatre, Jack enjoys swimming, hiking, playing the piano, and writing. Jack is excited to make many great memories this summer with Prairie Rep!

Eli Zagurski

Joel

Eli is excited to make his PRT debut this summer! Some of his past roles include Damian in Mean Girls at Midland University’s All State Musical and SpongeBob in SpongeBob the Musical in Omaha’s district wide summer musical. Some of his most recent show credits have been assistant to the light designer for Drake’s production of Legally Blonde and Head Electrician in a Doll’s House Part 2, also at Drake! While Eli isn’t practicing juggling he enjoys spending time with his friends, thrifting, and reading. He is very thankful for his friends and family for this wonderful opportunity.

Morgan Foote

Jeb/Ensemble

Morgan is a PRT veteran who you may remember from shows such as Nunsense, Cinderella, and 2 Across. She has also performed in numerous State University Theatre productions including Bright Star, Macbeth, and Fuddy Meers to name a few. Upon graduation, she is planning on going to grad school for an MFA in directing. Outside of theatre she enjoys baking, reading, and going camping with her family. She can’t wait for another summer with PRT and can’t wait to put on some amazing productions!

Kirynn Engelbrecht

Luke/Ensemble

Kirynn will be making her debut for PRT this summer. She is extremely thrilled to have been cast in three out of the four productions and is looking forward to making memories with all of the other cast and crew members. She still has two more years of studying Theater and Dance at SDSU, but afterwards hopes to start her journey of becoming a choreographer for theatre, dance, and show choir. In Kirynn’s spare time she enjoys shopping, traveling to see family, working at Kool Beans and making people laugh.

Alex Strawn

Zeke

Making his PRT debut, Alex has performed in multiple South Dakota State University productions including Newsies, James and the Giant Peach, Fuddy Meers, Macbeth, and Bright Star. When not working on theatre, Alex enjoys drawing, bowling, playing baseball, and trying to make people laugh with bad jokes. After his time at South Dakota State University, he would love to pursue a career in film acting. Alex is super excited to act alongside incredible people this summer and bring some joy to the audiences of Prairie Repertory Theatre!

Clay Hull

Preacher

Clay Hull is making their debut with Prairie Repertory Theatre. They have previously managed props for Mary Poppins and Elf at Harding University, as well as You Can’t Take It With You, and The Marvelous Wonderettes at Searcy Summer Dinner Theater. Clay has been fabricating stage props for a decade, starting in middle school. Clay’s long-term goal is to freelance projects out of their own shop someday. They are passionate about props and excited to gain more hands-on experience. Clay is thrilled to bring their creativity to Prairie Rep.

Evan Anderson

Mr. Hoallum

Evan Anderson is thrilled to join the PRT company this summer! Evan will be a senior this upcoming fall at the University of Minnesota Morris! His university credits include The Pillowman (Katurian), A Doll’s House (Torvald Helmer), The Trail to Oregon! (Father), and Romeo and Juliet (Paris). He recently directed Joan the Girl of Arc with the Morris Meiningens Performing Arts Collective as well. Outside of theatre, Evan enjoys cooking, hiking, and bodybuilding. He is deeply grateful to his family, friends, and mentors for their constant support. Follow his journey on Instagram @evan.anderson3 and TikTok @evanandersonlifts.

Maddie Perry

Mrs. Hoallum

Madison is having her debut PRT season. She has not yet performed collegiately, but she helped with the set for SDSU's Bright Star last spring. She is participating in PRT because she is searching for acting experience and to open more doors in the theater world that would lead her to achieving her dream job: acting on Broadway or in other big theater companies in the country. Besides theater, Madison enjoys playing her trombone in many ensembles, singing, being with friends, and watching movies or tv shows. Madison is very excited to make friends and great memories this PRT season.

Carl Steinlicht

Mr. Sander

Carl is happy to be back after taking a short hiatus from PRT! You may remember him from the shows See How They Run, Oklahoma, Peter and the Starcatcher, or Footloose, though he has also been performing at SDSU during the school year in Fuddy Meers and Newsies to name a few. Carl can't wait to share more art with everybody and hopes you enjoy the season!

Reilly Sazdoff

Mrs. Sander

This summer will be Reilly’s PRT debut! Her State University Theatre credits include Macbeth and Bright Star, as both an actor and assistant props designer. Other shows she’s been in include Mamma Mia, Little Women, and Fiddler on the Roof. When she’s not in the theater, Reilly likes to read, have movie marathons with friends, and drink chai lattes. She’s looking forward to spending this summer with existing friends and making new ones, and hopes you enjoy the shows!

Ally Armstrong

Ensemble

Ally Armstrong is thrilled to make her Prairie Rep debut this summer! She is majoring in theatre and minoring in music at Missouri Baptist University. Some of her previous roles include Newsies (Medda Larkin), Eleemosynary (Echo), Fiddler on the Roof (Grandmother Tzeitel), Hairspray (Tracy Turnblad), Junie B. Jones The Musical (Chenille), and 12 Angry Jurors (Juror #10). She has auditioned for The Voice twice and aspires to be a real estate agent, content creator, and performer in the future!

Barbara Gonzalez

Ensemble

Barbara, a veteran PRT company member, appeared in the ensemble of last year's production of Cinderella. Her State University Theatre credits include Aunt Spiker in James and the Giant Peach and her first ever leading role in a two person show with Turn of the Screw as the Governess. Upon her graduation, Barbara hopes to start working in the film industry as an actor, director, or makeup artist, but she is also interested in modeling. While not working in the theatre, she enjoys working out, watching movies, and hanging out with her friends. Barbara is also bilingual; she can speak English and Spanish fluently, and she is hoping to learn a third language and travel around the world in the future. This summer, she is looking forward to creating long-lasting friendships and memories at Prairie Rep.

Matti McDonnell

Ensemble

Matti is making her PRT debut this summer! Prior to coming to SDSU, Matti was involved in theater at Watertown High School. Her acting credits include Grease, Into the Woods, Meet Me in St. Louis, Bedlam and Breakfast with Watertown High School, and Shrek: The Musical and Newsies with Town Players Theatre! Her technical credits include lighting for Arsenic and Old Lace. Through her first year at SDSU, she also discovered a love for dance when she performed in the 2025 Christmas Celebrations performance. Matti said ‘yes’ to the opportunity of PRT to gain experience in a professional theatre environment. Her dream is to be on Broadway, but aims to teach at collegiate level some day as well. She is super excited to be here this summer!

Billy Wilburn

Director

Billy is an Associate Professor of Theatre and Artistic Director for Prairie Repertory Theatre. Billy has been a part of PRT for 16 years. He earned his B.A. in Theatre from Morehead State University in Kentucky and an M.F.A. in production design from Michigan State University. While Billy specializes in costume design, scenic design, and costume technology, he also enjoys directing and performing on stage. Areas of research include thermoplastics, foam sculpture, and theme park design. He has designed over 100 productions and has a flair for the show-stopping musical. Favorite designs include White Christmas, Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Legally Blonde, and Oklahoma!. www.billywilburn.com

Dr. Melissa Hauschild-Mork

Choreographer

After decades of creating choreography for Prairie Repertory Theatre, Melissa shares her talents as choreographer for Seven Brides for Seven Brothers this season as well as coordinating our youth Theatre and Dance Exploration Summer Camp. You may have witnessed her recent work in PRT and SUTD seasons including Godspell, Cinderella, Newsies, James and the Giant Peach, and Bright Star. When not in the studio, Melissa enjoys gardening, hiking, reading, and sewing; but, nothing beats quality time spent with her husband and family!

Dr. Anna DeGraff

Music Director

Anna DeGraff is excited to return to PRT for the fourth time! A versatile performer and a proponent of contemporary music, Anna has appeared on opera, musical theatre, and recital stages throughout the MIdwest. While not working on music, she enjoys reading books about dragons, running long distances, jumping out of airplanes, and swinging on a trapeze. Anna serves as Instructor of Music History and Voice at SDSU.

David Reynolds

Conductor

David Reynolds is delighted to be returning this summer as conductor of the pit orchestra for Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. David recently completed his 20th year at SDSU, where he serves as Director of the School of Performing Arts, conductor of the SDSU Civic Symphony, and professor of trumpet.

Anna Rubey

Stage Manager

Anna is excited to be making her PRT debut this summer! Most recently, she has served as Stage Manager for ‘Amelie’ and ‘The Legend of Sleepy Hollow’ at Normandale Community College in Bloomington, MN. Similarly, she has fulfilled the role of Assistant Stage Manager for several productions at Normandale, including The Lightning Thief and The Revolutionists. When not working in arts administration, Anna can be found working in the costume shop continuing to grow her stitching and draping skills. She would like to thank her friends, family, and mentors for their constant love and support.

Noah Files

Scenic Design

Noah J. Files is very excited to be doing his first scenic design for Prairie Rep with Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. He currently teaches at Drake University, where he is the Director of the Theatre Design and Tech BFA program. He is a member of professional organizations USITT, The Guild of Scenic Artists, and KCACTF, where he serves as Vice Chair of Design, Technology and Management for Region V. He has previously worked for Des Moines Metro Opera, Colorado Shakespeare Festival, New York Stage and Film, and Western Plains Opera.

Emily Ganfield

Costume Design

Emily is a costume designer and technician based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Professionally, she spends most of her time teaching, designing and building costumes, serving as the resident Intimacy Choreographer and occasionally directing for the Department of Theatre at Coe College. She also enjoys freelancing throughout Iowa in a variety of capacities. Prior to returning to Iowa, Emily received her MFA from Purdue University and worked throughout the country, notably at Actors Theatre of Louisville and Williamstown Theatre Festival. When not creating theatre, Emily enjoys reading, crocheting, and spending time with her friends and family. She is excited for her first summer with PRT!

Cody Lee Crist

Lighting Design

Making his PRT Debut behind the scenes this summer, Cody Lee is excited to bring his skills to our stage as a crew member and lighting designer. Past lighting designs include She Kills Monsters, The Addams Family, Town Hall, A Bright New Boise, Cinderella, and more! Cody Lee hopes to pursue theatre management, lighting design, and directing post graduation and cannot wait to see where life takes him. Check out his portfolio through his website on Instagram @theleeman0213.

Corey Shelsta

Projection Design

Corey Shelsta is a Professor of Theatre at SDSU, designing lighting, scenery, and sound for productions on campus and other theatres in the region. He teaches courses in design, technical production, and theatre history. Recent credits: Lighting Design: Oklahoma, Footloose – Prairie Repertory Theatre; A Christmas Carol, Grease, Cabaret (Sioux Falls Stage Award – Best Design) – Premiere Playhouse. Scenic Design: Oklahoma – Premier Playhouse; James and the Giant Peach, Newsies, The Hunchback of Notre Dame – SDSU Theatre; Godspell – Prairie Repertory Theatre. This will be Corey’s 25th season with PRT. He wants to thank his wife, Stacy, for all her love and support.

Samantha Clark

Sound Design

This is Samantha's first year with PRT, as she just finished her freshman year at South Dakota State University. In her first year of college she was able to participate in the run crew for MacBeth and assistant sound design for the musical Bright Star. Being a part of PRT will help Sam get opportunities in the arts and continue to do what she loves. Outside of theatre, she also likes traveling, going out for coffee, hanging out with friends, doing crafts, and watching a good television show.

Eve Vogel

Properties Design

Eve is very excited to make their PRT debut! They have spent their past working hard at Normandale Community College as a Stage Manager and Scene Shop Foreman, most recently stage managing Normandale's performance of The Language Archive and assistant stage managing Amelie. They are delighted to be working in the properties department at PRT and have the pleasure of serving as Light Board Op for Grease and Properties Designer for Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. They will continue on their journey to become a Properties Designer and Stage Manager next year at theatres throughout the Twin Cities. They would like to thank everyone that has mentored them and helped them to get this far!

Jacee Casarella

Production Manager

Jacee is excited to join PRT for her 7th summer (4 as a student and 3 as a guest.) Past PRT credits include Cinderella (24) and Peter & the Starcatcher (22). She is an Assistant Professor of Theatre and Resident Designer at Augustana University in Sioux Falls. Jacee holds an MFA from Wayne State University (Detroit, MI) and has worked with companies such as The Little Theatre on the Square, Des Moines Metro Opera, SD Shakespeare Festival, and the Black Hills Playhouse. Jacee lives with her husband, Clark, and her sweet rescue pup, Zeke. The 3 of them love camping and hiking. On their outdoor adventures, they have visited 19 state high points.

Thomas Alpers

Followspot

This is Thomas' first year doing PRT, however he has participated in several shows at South Dakota State University theatre, including doing the lighting design for Turn of the Screw. One of Thomas' favorite musicals is Les Misérables, and he someday hopes to do the lighting for it in a production. He also hopes to one day write and publish his own play. In his free time, he enjoys working out, reading, biking, and hanging out with friends. He is very excited to work with everybody this summer.

Kendall Morris

Followspot

This is Kendall's PRT debut. So far, her credits as an undergraduate student at Truman State University include audio mixing for The Lightning Thief, The Rocky Horror Show, and Ride the Cyclone. As well as co-sound designing for Schoolhouse Rock Live and assistant stage managing for Peter and the Starcatcher. She was also on the lighting crew for Truman State Theatre’s 2024-2025 season. When not in the theatre she enjoys reading, coloring, and hanging out with her girlfriend. This summer she is excited to join the Prairie Rep company to gain professional experience and meet new people.

Jennika Bunney

Wardrobe

Jennika is excited to make her Prairie Repertory Theatre debut as a costume and wardrobe technician. Her recent costume design credits include The Importance of Being Earnest (KCACTF Merit Award), Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812, and Cabaret. Her favorite musical is Sunday in the Park with George because of its inspiring exploration of color and movement. After college, Jennika plans to channel her passion for costumes into both theatre and museum work. Outside of theatre, she enjoys painting and curating her ever-growing collection of vintage clothing.

Journey Inez Johnson

Wardrobe

Now in her second season with Prairie Repertory Theatre, Journey Inez Johnson previously appeared in Oklahoma! as a wardrobe team member and ensemble performer. Her SDSU costume credits include Assistant Costume Designer for Newsies, Bright Star, as well as Costume Designer for The Turn of the Screw, and Macbeth, in which she performed as the Doctor. Last summer, she designed The Play That Goes Wrong and The Hunchback of Notre Dame at Theatre West in Nebraska.

Alyza Pike

Wardrobe

While being new to Prairie Repertory Theatre this summer, Alyza is experienced on and off stage as both an actor and a technician. They have acted in musicals and plays such as Something Rotten!, Legally Blonde, CLUE, and the Crucible at Roosevelt High School in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and has recently worked in backstage crew and wardrobe in shows such as Macbeth, Turn of the Screw, and Bright Star at South Dakota State University. In recent years, Alyza has discovered a deep love and dedication for costuming/wardrobe and hopes to continue doing what they love in the future.

Angel Qualset

Wardrobe

This year will be Angel’s PRT debut!  Their professional credits include “The Merchant of Venice” with South Dakota Shakespeare Festival as their First Hand & Wardrobe Crew and “Misdemeanor Dream” with Spiderwoman Theatre as a part of their wardrobe crew. Their University of South Dakota credits include costume & makeup designs for “The Hotel”, “The Wolves” and “The Inexplicable Chaos Factory of Mia Gregory”. They have also worked on various shows as a stitcher including USD’s productions of “The Lightning Thief”, “Bat Boy”, and “Ride the Cyclone”. When not working in the costume shop, Angel enjoys reading, singing, creating art, and spending time with friends. This summer, they are looking forward to making many new memories at Prairie Rep.

Priscilla Muehr

Scenic Charge Artist/Backstage Crew

Priscilla is a newfound member of PRT. They are focused on scenic design but also interested in stage makeup, as well as performance. Priscilla has been in many shows at SMSU in Marshall, such as An Inspector Calls, Laundry and Bourbon, and many more. She also helped out last summer at the SMSU children’s theatre and was Patty DiMarco in School of Rock at MASC in Marshall. Her latest projects include wigs and makeup for Shout: The Mod Musical, set design for Laundry and Bourbon, and projections for 46 Plays for Americas First Ladies. They really enjoy listening to music, playing sims, and drawing when not participating in theatre. She’s really looking forward to meeting some cool people, learning new things, and having fun!

Amilia Baca

Fly Captain

Amilia is excited to be working as a carpenter for PRT this summer. She graduated from Cowley College with an Associate of Fine Arts as a technical theater major. Amilia’s college credits include: Disaster! (Stage Manager), Flora and Ulysses (set designer and technical director), Young Frankenstein (soft goods manufacturer). Last summer she was the Master Carpenter for Theater West Summer Repertory where she got to work on The Play That Goes Wrong, Little Shop of Horrors, and The Hunchback of Notre Dame. In her free time, Amilia enjoys audiobooks, crochet, and road trips!

Christian Brockemeier

Backstage Crew

Christian has done theatre throughout high school with both acting and set design. He was Bingley in Pride and Prejudice, Grandpa Joe in Willy Wonka, The Painter in Shuttersome Tales of Poe, Mordca in Fiddler on the Roof, Dr. Livesy in Treasure Island, Oberon in The Shakespeare Bachelorette, and Colonel Pickering in My Fair Lady. He did set design in all those productions as well as building due to the size of the crew. Christian has the plan to go to a four-year university to get a degree in Biblical Languages to become a pastor but the number of theatre jobs he receives could influence that plan.

Rylinn Dale

Backstage Crew

Rylinn is a hair/makeup designer and carpenter at Central College. Rylinn has worked on shows such as, Young Frankenstein, Last Five Years, A Christmas Carol, Hansel and Gretal, and lastly Bonnie and Clyde. Rylinn's dream job is to work for a scare park as a hair, makeup and or costume designer. While not working on theater productions, Rylinn spends her time reading, hanging out with her friends, and doing odd art projects. This summer she looks forward to advancing her skills along with making new ones, and overall the experience of the opportunity.

Emma Niswander

Backstage Crew

Emma will be returning to the PRT scene shop this summer as a Carpenter and Scenic Designer for Out Of Order by Ray Cooney. They attend Augustana University in Sioux Falls and while there they’ve designed for multiple shows in multiple different areas including Scenic, Costumes & Props. In addition, they work as Augustana Theatre’s Paint Charge. When they aren’t in the theater, they’re likely thinking about theater and watching a workplace sitcom.

Donors

Thank You Contributors  

The following people, firms, and organizations have donated to Prairie Repertory Theatre from June 4, 2024, to May 31st, 2025. We deeply appreciate the continued support of these individuals. PRT donations are used to support PRT operations and the students who participate in the company.  

You can make a tax-deductible donation to PRT online at https://www.sdstatefoundation.org/give-now  

Donations received after May 31st, 2025, will be recognized in next year’s PRT program.  

Thanks to all who graciously donated and loaned personal items for stage properties and costumes.  

Thank you to our patrons for your continuous support for the past 53 seasons!  

Ticket stock for all productions has been printed through the generosity of First Bank and Trust in Brookings.

Thank You for Your Support

Thank You for Your Support!

The PRT company is generously supported each season by loyal friends who make tax-deductible donations. These contributions support the hard working students who make up the company in a variety of ways. The funds go to student compensation, general operating expenses, and the behind-the-scenes equipment and supplies needed to produce four outstanding productions each season. We do all we can to spend our funds wisely in the face of the rising cost of preparing our shows. We use and maintain our equipment for as long as we are able.

As you can see, our performance space here in the Oscar Larson Performing Art Center is truly a dream come true for us, our alums, and our current and future companies. The reality, however, is that this new space is larger, more complex and will allow for more extensive scenic and technical designs. This, of course means our overall expenses will continue to increase (along with increases in rights and royalties for our productions). We will need your support more than ever to ensure that we are able to provide high-quality experiences for the students in our program and for you in our audience. 

Above all, the financial support and gifts we receive from our growing PRT “family” helps to ensure that students will continue to benefit from the extraordinary experience of being part of our company. If you wish to give us a little extra help, you may donate online at https://www.sdstatefoundation.org/give-now and designate your gift for Prairie Rep Theatre in the comments box.

The 2025 PRT Advisory Board

The 2025 PRT Advisory Board

Nick Castillo - President

Jen Kuck - President Elect

Kay Norton - Secretary

Major Anderson

Donna Bain

Kay Becker

Tom Chleborad

Rita Edwards

Joanie Holm

Vonni Knutson

Dr. Jill Kruse

Eric Mette

Kayla Mette

Don Norton

Kay Norton

Sharon Prendergast

Jason Raether

Eric Rasmussen

Kristi Richter

Gerrit VonEye (student board member)

Donna Wermedal

Kate Wismer

Ex-Officio Members

Christina Castillo, Larson Family Endowed Director of the Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center

Dr. Barry H. Dunn, President - South Dakota State University 

Dr. David Earnest, Dean - College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. 

Dr. David Reynolds, Director - School of Performing Arts

Corey Shelsta, Professor/Technical Director of Theatre & Dance

Billy Wilburn, Associate Professor/Artistic Director of PRT

W. James Wood, Professor/Artistic Director of Theatre & Dance

Fifty-four Years of Prairie Repertory Theatre!

Fifty-four Years of Prairie Repertory Theatre!

Special Thanks

The Murray Family Fund for Excellence in Theatre

The Murray Family Fund for Excellence in Theatre at South Dakota State University was established by Jo Ann Murray (‘75 Sociology) to honor her brother, father, uncles, and grandfather who worked the land in Clark County, SD, for several generations. While Jo Ann thrived in her academic studies as an undergrad at State, it was on stage and behind the scenes in the theatre where she truly found her voice and lifelong friends. The Murray Family Fund for Excellence in Theatre proudly supports PRT 2025!

Special Thanks

Donna Behrend, Sarah Bison, Lindsay Borer, Christina Castillo, Janell Davis, Dr. David Earnest, Cady Falken, Michelle Kuebler, Kathy Larsen, Jessica Lewis, Rebecca Peterson, Dr. David Reynolds, Shannon Richarz, Erin  Staniszewski, Andie Star, Amanda Stirling,  Maryke Taute,  Amber Turner, Kara Vostad,  Dani Wermedal, Friends and Family of the 2025 PRT Company.  Brookings Chamber of Commerce, Brookings Library, Brookings Radio, Briggs Library and Archives, First Bank and Trust, Glacial Lake & Prairies Tourism, Mosaic Wine Bar and Small Plates, Scoops and Loops, SDSU Card and Parking Services, SDSU Foundation, SDSU School of Performing Arts, South Dakota Arts Museum, South Dakota Arts Council, The Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center, University of Minnesota-Morris Theatre Department, University of South Dakota Department of Theatre, University Marketing and Communications, Visit Brookings

South Dakota Arts Council support is provided with funds from the State of South Dakota, through the Department of Tourism, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

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