Auditions were held March 10-11 for the May play, “The MOMologues.” Director Elysia Pederson has announced the cast as follows.
DIRECTOR and CAST
Director: Elysia Pederson
Elysia Pederson is a recent graduate of Black Hills State University. She is the proud mother of four-year-old Oliver. She would like to thank her friends and family for all their support. She’d also like to dedicate this play to her own mother, Lynn Pederson, who has been her biggest supporter. “I love you, Mom!”
Charlotte: Samantha Thompson
Samantha (Vaselaar) Thompson (Charlotte) is a graduate of Saint Mary’s University in Winona, MN where she got her BA in Theatre Arts. During her time there she focused on acting, design (scene, costume and make-up) and management. Samantha, along with husband Ethan, moved to Spearfish in August 2014 and has been working with The Matthews Opera House and Art Gallery ever since. Some of Samantha’s favorite past roles include Joanne (Vanities), Cecily (Importance of Being Ernest), Claire (Long Christmas Ride Home), and Iphigenia (Iphigenia at Aulis).
Ellen: Carla Blomberg
While being theatrical is in her nature; most of her nurturing came from her drama teacher, Mr. Connor of SF Washington High School. He also inspired Carla to get a teaching degree and be a kick-ass human being. She has also been fortunate enough to be a part of community theatres along the way. The most classy, of course, is the Matthews Opera House. Never been married or pregnant, Carla says that her character in Momologues is her most challenging role yet. Carla’s “real job” is at the Bay Leaf Cafe.
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Maria: Rachel Ridinger
Rachel is ecstatic to be able to perform on the Matthews Opera House stage. Most recently, she was part of BHSU’s 2014 summer stage, “The Odd Couple (female version)” and shrieking as Mrs. Bumble in “Oliver.” She is prepared for this show, as she is the proud mother to her 5 year old son. She would like to thank her parents for supporting her endeavors, her son for showing her how true this show is, and her pretty swell boyfriend for supporting her Netflix habit.
Stefanie: Stephanie Bussiere
As a real-life mother of two, Stephanie relates with her character on a very personal level! When not acting at the Matthews in productions such as The Red Velvet Cake War and Theater on the Run, Stephanie also sings with the Northern Hills Chamber Chorale at BHSU and loves hiking and exploring the Black Hills. She is so thankful to her family for all their support!
Congratulations to this great ensemble of women! If you see any of them around the Black Hills, be sure to give them a hearty hand shake.
LEARN MORE about the play and tickets.