Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
This weekend, the young stars of Wagon Wheel Junior step into the spotlight for the 34th Junior production, “Trial of the Wicked Witch: The Musical,” sponsored by Reinholt Thallemer Eye Care Associates and the Esther Pfleiderer Charitable Trust, managed by 1st Source Bank.
Performances begin Friday, Oct. 25, and each show is preceded by Wagon Wheel’s annual Not-So-Haunted Open House: a pre-show celebration packed with games, prizes, a costume contest, scavenger hunts and face painting. Entry to the open house is included with every show ticket, according to a news release from the Wagon Wheel.
In “Trial of the Wicked Witch,” the infamous villain faces her day in court for crimes against storybook characters including Hansel and Gretel, Prince Charming and Rumpelstiltskin. The audience serves as the jury, deciding the Witch’s ultimate fate in this laugh-out-loud courtroom comedy, the release states.
Corey Brennan, who plays prosecuting attorney Little Red Riding Hood, says performing at Wagon Wheel Junior is unlike any other experience.
“Being in high school, there’s something really fascinating about auditioning in a place that’s completely unbiased by seniority,” said Brennan. “If you’re considering a career in musical theatre, Wagon Wheel Junior is an amazing opportunity because it gives you that taste of an intensive rehearsal process. Theatre keeps communities alive and thriving. It’s magic.”
For many students, that magic begins the moment rehearsals start.
“The excitement of the first day keeps bringing me back to Wagon Wheel,” said Kaid Scacco, who plays one of the Three Little Pigs. “Learning the music and starting a new show with my friends is amazing. My singing and acting have grown so much since working with Thomas (Hall), Scott (Michaels) and Kira (Lace Hawkins). There’s just nothing like live theatre. You can’t feel that energy with a movie or TV show.”
Like Wagon Wheel’s professional season, Junior productions are assembled in just two weeks. This whirlwind process mirrors the pace and professionalism of the mainstage experience, according to the release.
“The show process is fast and furious,” said DeLaney McCammon, who plays the Gingerbread Man. “Wagon Wheel pushes you to see how limitless you are. It’s challenging, but you’re always in good hands with Scott Michaels as the choreographer.”
For returning performer Kade Bauer, that pace is exactly what makes Wagon Wheel so special. Bauer also performed in several Wagon Wheel Professional productions as a child.
“You get a taste of real, professional theatre here, even with a Junior show,” said Bauer. “It’s only two weeks. It’s go, go, go. But it’s incredible to see everything come together so quickly. It’s what keeps me coming back.”
“As my first Wagon Wheel show, it’s been amazing,” said first-time performer Elijah Rivas, who plays Rumpelstiltskin. “There’s such a strong commitment to excellence here. We’ve become a family, and I can’t wait to share this story with everyone.”
“Trial of the Wicked Witch: The Musical” opens at 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25 at Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts. The Not-So-Haunted Open House begins one hour before each performance and is included with all tickets. For showtimes and tickets, visit wagonwheelcenter.org or call the box office at 574-267-8041.
