Rumpelstiltskin

Theatre Bristol’s “Rumpelstiltskin” Opens March 13, Kicks Off 50th Season

Classic fairy tale with lots of twists features a cast and crew of 40 for three weekends in the Theatre Bristol ARTspace

Bristol, Tennessee/Virginia, February 2015 – Theatre Bristol is proud to open its 50th anniversary season with the classic fairy tale “Rumpelstiltskin” on March 13 and running for three weekends in the ARTspace Theatre, 506 State Street, Bristol, TN.

Once upon a time there was a dwarf named Rumpels… wait, you probably know that part already. This reimagining of the classic fairy tale features two strong-willed sisters: Anya, shy and romantic, and Ingrid, outspoken and sensible. When their widowed mother is once again victim to the judgments of others, she tells a tiny lie — Anya can turn straw into gold. Soon, the story “spins” out of control when the King believes Anya is the reason their nation is out of money and demands she perform her special skill for the royal coffers. Mix in magical companions, mistaken identities, a short villain, and princess wannabes — is this a recipe for disaster? Or happily ever after?

It’s only fitting that the opening show of Theatre Bristol’s golden season is a story about spinning gold.

It’s also fitting that directing the show will be long time Theatre Bristol veteran, Chris McVey.  McVey has been a valuable friend to Theatre Bristol and the theatre community over the years as a talented and respected actor and director. Recently, McVey has directed Theatre Bristol’s 2013 production of “Anne of Green Gables, a New Musical” and 2014’s production of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.”

In the title role as Rumpelstiltskin is Hunter Johnson. Playing Anya Mueller is Rachel Locke, with Frau Mueller by Jane Bass, and Ingrid Meuller by Sara Harless. Jacob Alvis is King Rolfe. Minister North is played by Steve Baskett, and Minister South by Jerry Matthews. They are joined by Aunt Marta played by Lee Ann Hitch, Captain Tanner by Coy Owens, Sweeps by Abram Moore, Jughead by Rori Simmons, and Pansy by Olivia Stevens. The South sisters are played by Katelyn Briggs (Sarah), Gracie Cunningham (Senta), Gabrielle Harman (Sigrid), Asha Parker-Holloway (Sonja), and Alayna Walker (Sally). Guide is played by Sarah Countiss, Frau Gudhoff by Mary Johnson, Frau Kinder by Terri McCall, and Frau Blixen by Cherry Stewart. The soldiers are Aaron Blankenship, Cody Wendt, Caleb Hale and Austin Blake. John Mullins plays Corporal Dern. The servants are Emmersyn Hardy, Molly Johnson, Grace Johnson, Hope Oliver, Carolyn Hitch, Mary Hitch, and Lucy Tester.

Sarah McCall is assistant to director Chris McVey, and stage manager. Assistant stage manager is Sabrina Briggs and costumer is Coy Owens. Mike Musick is the producer.

This show opens Friday, March 13, and runs three weekends:
Fridays, March 13, 20, and 27 at 7:30 pm;
Saturdays, March 14, 21, and 28 at 7:30 pm; and
Sundays, March 15, 22, and 29 at 2:30 pm.

Tickets, $12 for adults and $10 for students and seniors, can be reserved for Rumpelstiltskin by calling the ticket line at 383-5979. Please leave a message with the date you would like to attend; the number of reservations needed for adults, seniors, and students; name to contact; and telephone number. The reservation will be confirmed with a call and tickets held at the door.
Founded in 1965, Theatre Bristol is the oldest continually running children’s theatre in northeast Tennessee and now celebrating its 50th season. Its Main Stage season consists of up to five productions. Some of its performances take place in the ARTspace, a multi-purpose, black box theatre which seats up to 120. Theatre Bristol is entirely volunteer run and we invite you to get involved.
For more information, visit the Theatre Bristol’s website or Facebook page, contact Theatre Bristol at 423-383-5979, or email info@theatrebristol.org.
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INTERVIEWS: Interviews with the cast or other production members are available. Call 423-383-4035.