A little "theatre magic"
Emily Giles • March 25, 2025
One phrase that gets thrown around when working with young people on theatrical projects is “theatre magic!” When we enter production week and it looks like we are miles away from where we want to be, I have been known to say, “Let’s just hope ‘theatre magic’ kicks in!” Or when parents ask, “how do you get all those kids to do what they are supposed to do on stage with just five days of rehearsal?” I half jokingly respond “theatre magic.”
When I say “theatre magic” am I really thinking the theatre gods will look down on us at that moment and shower us with magic dust to pull all the various pieces together? No, I do not. So what do I mean when I say “theatre magic?”
I define “theatre magic” as
- three parts the overwhelming human need to be a part of something bigger than oneself,
- two parts the human need to be involved with something creative,
- one part desire to do a good job, and/or show off
- A pinch panic that the clock is ticking!
Throughout my 20 plus years of working with youth in theatre, “theatre magic” has never let me down, but sometimes it does try my patience by waiting until the last minute to show up! I think giving youth the opportunity to be involved in a theatrical production is magical, and something every child should have the chance to be a part of during childhood!
Theatre Lawrence News & Announcements
Project honoring legacy of Louise ImMasche
Theatre Lawrence is currently accepting applications for select creative positions in the 2026-2027 season. To apply please send an email to julmer@theatrelawrence.com stating what show and position you are interested in being considered for, along with a resume. For consideration please apply by May 8. Open positions are: PIRATES! THE PENZANCE MUSICAL (Sept. 11-13, 17-20, 2026): Director, Music Director, Choreographer LIZZIE (Oct. 22-24, 2026): Director, Music Director December Musical (Dec. 4-6, 10-13, 17-20, 2026): Director, Music Director, Choreographer. Show will be announced May 25, contact us for more information. ON GOLDEN POND (Jan. 29-31, Feb. 4-7, 2027): Director Learn more about our entire 50th Anniversary Season at: https://www.theatrelawrence.com/26-27-season
CAST LIST Gomez Addams…………....................Juan Deras Juarez Morticia Addams…….................…....Shelby Easum Uncle Fester………..….....................…....Brian Williams Grandma……………….......................…….Beth Dearinger Wednesday Addams……..........….Gwentessa Alfie Pugsley Addams….............…...………Kouri Demelash* Lurch……………………….............................…Dan Heinz Mal Beineke………………......................…Spencer Greenwood Alice Beineke………………......................Courtney Ellis* Lucas Beineke………………....................Zachary Bricken Ancestor (Conquistador)..........Mario Bonilla Ancestor (Solider)...........................Malachi Swedberg Ancestor (Pilgrim)...........................Susan Rieger Ancestor (Gambler)......................Parker Bennett* Ancestor (Hippie)............................Mary Ramirez Ancestor (Bride)...............................Liv Brack Ancestor (Flapper).........................Kenzie Alexander* Ancestor (Witch).............................Robin Michael Ancestor (Flight Attendant).....Madison Torrez* Ancestor/US Gomez…..............……Samuel Person* Ancestor/US Morticia…..........…….Rachel Craft* Ancestor/US Wednesday.....…..Essy Siegel* Ancestor/US Fester……….............…Josh Nemechek Ancestor/US Lucas………..............…Timmy Adams Ancestor/US Alice………...............….Katie Hastings Lewis* Ancestor/US Pugsley…............……Nikki Hammond