Support your local businesses

DECORAH -- The New Minowa Players are bringing the hit Broadway musical "Bright Star" to Decorah this summer. "Bright Star" is described by the troupe as a story of love and redemption. Set in the American South in the 1920s and 1940s, its story is supported by the bright and authentic sound of bluegrass music. Inspired by a true story, the production features a Tony-nominated score by duo Steve Martin and Edie Brickell. When editor Alice Murphy meets a young soldier just home from World War II, he awakens a need to understand the painful experiences in her past. With the man's help, she sets out on a journey to unravel a mystery. What she finds is a surprise that has the power to transform both of their lives. "Bright Star" will be performed at the Decorah High School Auditorium at 7 p.m. on June 27, 28 and 29, and at 2 p.m. on June 30. The show will be co-directed by Sheryl Scheffert and David Mendez, with Julia Wharton serving as music director and Tanya O'Connor as costumer. Rehearsals are already underway with a large cast of local talent. The show starts with literary editor Alice Murphy (Sarah Brandt) announcing that it is finally time to tell the painful story of her past. Billy Cane (Carston Krieg) is a returning soldier and aspiring writer. When reuniting with his father, Daddy Cane (Matt Spencer), he learns that his mother has died while he was away. Billy's childhood friend Margo Crawford (Emily Schmidt) supports him in submitting his stories to the local newspaper, The Asheville Southern Journal. This is where he meets Alice. The meeting triggers many memories in Alice. She recalls her teenage love affair with Jimmy Ray Dobbs (Alexander Rosenow), which was interrupted by both sets of parents: Daddy Murphy (Jonathan Struve), Mama Murphy (Eva Brummel) and Mayor Josiah Dobbs (Rick Scheffert). Yet the relationship had consequences. Alice has tried to repress the memories for years, but they bubble to the surface, and now she must know: What really happened? The heartfelt bluegrass music helps move the story forward to the final revelation. There are many other named roles in the show. They include: Florence (Alison Blake), Edna (Annika Krieg), Daryl (Lucas Hanson), Lucy (Indigo Fish), Stanford (Jon Thompson), Max (Earl Lienau), Government Clerk (Hallie Johnson), Dr. Nordquist (Elise Bennett), LeAnn (Taylor Vick), Mary (Nessa Kane), Well-Dressed Woman (Violet Hatfield), Young Daddy Cane (Alison Blake) and Stationmaster (Sydney Landstrom). Joining them in the ensemble are Alex Kane, Jenna Hartz, Kelly Johnson and Emma Cline. "Bright Star" is presented through special arrangement with Theatrical Rights Worldwide. Sponsors are Copyland; Decorah Bank & Trust; Family Table Restaurant; Gallery of Tops; Iroc Web Design Services; Bill Musser, Otter Dreaming, Cleo, Paige, and Aurora; Pizza Ranch; Rockweiler Appliance & TV; JoAn Stevenson and Steven Nelson; Rick and Sheryl Scheffert and Singing Hammers Construction. Knowledge is power! Stay empowered by subscribing to the free newsletter, packed with valuable insights, stories of local newsmakers and ideas to get your weekend started. Stay ahead of the curve! Subscribe to free newsletters for exclusive insights, local trends and analysis delivered straight to your inbox."

Support your local businesses

New Minowa Players Announce "Bright Star" Cast