Madi & Whitney

These two aren't family, but around the Dickens Festival, they seem to come as a pair.  I'm fairly certain I rarely say either's name alone but rather refer to them as the dynamic duo they are, Madi & Whitney. 

Carpooling up from Utah County for rehearsals, these girls have showed some great dedication to the cast.  And with their smiles light up the room, they are respectiful during rehearsals and are amazingly good at keeping their teenage chit-chat to appropriate times.  I am constantly impressed by their talent and hard work and their willingness to try new things.  And their versatility (playing pickpockets in one show and adult ensemble in the other) is a huge asset to our production.

Pierce Family

These four may be new to the Dickens stage, but they are making a huge impact, and their family is making a huge commitment.  With their roles ranging from adult ensemble to pickpocket to orphan in various combinations, I had no problem highlighting the rehearsal schedule for their very supportive mom.

These kids, Jenecee (urchin), Allyson (pickpocket, female ensemble), Maria (pickpocket, urchin), and Gabe (orphan, urchin), are my go-to kids in every song, exhibiting great attitudes and hard work each time they are on stage.  If my attention is called by something great happening, chances are there's a Pierce kid in the mix.

Arlee Heslop

Arlee is definitely no stranger to the stage, but this is her first year as a part of the Dickens Festival.  Although her roles may not have actual names (Cook 1, Rose Girl, Rose 1, Salesman 2, Woman), Arlee makes a huge contribution to the shows through her well-thought business and character development.

Arlee's storylines have a trickle-down effect which starts in her bright spot on the stage and extends outward, creating one of the best ensembles I've ever had the chance to work with.  In addition, I can count on her for the random little extras because I know if Arlee says she'll do it, it will be done.

Wrigley Family

One of our dynamic mother-daughter duos, Julie and Anna Wrigley are back this year for more adventures.  Julie is reprising her role as the Widow Corney, and Anna is taking a break from last year's Tiny Tim crutch as a pickpocket and an urchin.

Julie and Anna both ask great questions to clarify choreography when needed.  They are reliable, and I can count on them being exactly where they are supposed to be at the right time.  Having these two back this year has been like mixing up a special glue that holds the shows together.

Rick Mead

No stranger to the character of Scrooge (having played it last year as well), Rick Mead gladly came back for round two.  Castmates are amazed at the gruff character he's able to play since, in rehearsal, his lines often end in somethink akin to giggles. 

Irregardless of his work conflicts (that little joke was just for you, Rick), Rick has made the Dickens Festival a priority in his life and is an example of hard work and preparation.  I always look forward to nights when Rick is on the schedule.

Koop Family

While Anna-Claire started out last year in a pretty high-profile role (Oliver), she's happy to have turned in that hat for the chance to play a girl this year (Kathy Cratchit, Pickpocket).  But instead of flying solo, she auditioned with two of her brothers, Evan (Tiny Tim) and Charlie (Orphan, Cratchit Kid).

On Saturdays, the Koop family, including Mom and Dad, can be seen camped out on a blanket, eagerly supporting the kids in this endeavor. 

I hope that years from now we can look back and think, "I just can't imagine a Dickens Festival without the Koop family!"

Consider Yourself...

Here's the video I promised, plus a few bonuses!  Check out the new "Dance Notes" tab to see written notes on (almost) all the dances.