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GINGER POOLE BIDS FAREWELL TO MILL MOUNTAIN THEATRE AFTER 30 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY 

Dedicated search team created to find best candidate 

ROANOKE, Va. (Jan 22, 2024) – After a remarkable tenure with Mill Mountain Theatre, Ginger Poole will take her final bow as Producing Artistic Director during the 60th anniversary season. With an impressive season of productions planned in 2024, combined with the theatre’s vibrancy, Poole believes this is the right time to begin searching for her replacement. 

“I came to Roanoke 18 years ago as an actor and was asked back to perform and choreograph in the MainStage Seasons. This turned into an opportunity to join Mill Mountain Theatre as their Director of Education – little did I know how much that experience would forever change my life,” said Poole. “This theatre became my home and the place that I made my life. While leaving my role here is truly bittersweet, Mill Mountain Theatre remains a part of who I am.” 

Many credit Poole, the first female to hold this position, with reviving Mill Mountain Theatre not once, but twice. In 2009, Poole reinvigorated the theatre after it stopped producing due to financial struggles. Poole continued to keep the doors open with classes and a holiday show once a year for four years, and was the only full time employee holding the theatre together. And like many arts organizations, the COVID-19 pandemic put Mill Mountain Theatre in another precarious situation in 2020. Poole gracefully navigated the theatre through post-pandemic struggles, and once again revitalized the theatre to its present day health and liveliness. 

“The Theatre has thrived under Ginger’s leadership. She balances artistic excellence with fiscal responsibility and approaches every decision with the long-term sustainability of Mill Mountain top of mind,” Cynthia Lawrence, Past President (2014 – 2017), Director Emeritus and Chair of the search committee at Mill Mountain Theatre. “While we are saddened by her departure, we are grateful to her and support her decision wholeheartedly. We will conduct a thorough national search and will be very thoughtful about who we choose as her successor.” 

The search committee consists of an accomplished group, all of whom have either been a board officer or past president for Mill Mountain Theatre. Each committee member has had the honor

to work beside Poole and understands what it takes to maintain the level of excellence she has established. Search committee members include Nancy H. Agee, Jack Avis, NL Bishop, Nancy O. Gray, Cynthia Lawrence, Bill Lee and Macel Janoschka. Cynthia Lawrence, a past president of Mill Mountain Theatre will chair the search committee. 

“Finding the best match for my role is paramount to me and I am confident that this is the appropriate time to explore options. Mill Mountain Theatre is running efficiently and financially sound and we are celebrating our organization’s 60th birthday, making it an attractive time to find the best candidate,” explained Poole. 

A thought leader in the theatre industry, Poole will work alongside the dedicated search committee to find the premier candidate to assume her responsibilities. Additionally, she plans to remain on staff until the appropriate person is hired. 

“Ginger gave this theatre life in times when it would have been easier to simply close the doors. She had a vision and worked effortlessly to ensure that her vision became a reality, and we’ve all benefited from her perseverance,” said Rev. Dr. William L. “Bill” Lee, current Board President of Mill Mountain Theatre. “She will leave behind enormous shoes to fill but as the saying goes, the show must go on.” 

After 35 years of dedicated service to the entertainment and theatre industry and 18 years at Mill Mountain Theatre, Poole is excited to explore other opportunities within the community while continuing to support the artistic and cultural growth in Roanoke. 

“I am filled with a lot of hope for the future of Mill Mountain Theatre and I hold an immense amount of gratitude to everyone that I had the privilege to work alongside,” concluded Poole. 

For more information about the national search, please visit www.millmoutain.org or email Cynthia Lawrence, search committee chair, at search@nullmillmountain.org 

About Mill Mountain Theatre: 

For 60 years Mill Mountain Theatre has shown artistic excellence in the region and is known nationally for its work in the theatre industry. Mill Mountain Theatre strives to inspire, entertain, enrich, educate and challenge audiences of Southwest Virginia through high-quality, professional theatrical productions and experiences. Dedicated to nurturing the next generation of theatre artists and audiences through conservatory classes and programming aimed at education and community engagement, Mill Mountain Theatre is committed to ensuring the long term economic and artistic sustainability of the performing arts in the Roanoke Valley and Southwest Virginia. 

Escape to Margaritaville

A Tropical Musical Comedy featuring the Hits of Jimmy Buffett!

Mill Mountain Theatre’s Trinkle MainStage 2024 Debut

Roanoke, VA, March 13-30, 2024. “Escape to Margaritaville,” A tropical love story with Jimmy Buffett hits.

Don your Hawaiian shirts and kick off your flip flops for a tour of a tropical paradise led by Tully, a part-time bartender, part-time singer, and full-time charmer who thinks he’s got life all figured out—until a beautiful tourist steals his heart and makes him question everything. Escape to Margaritaville is a musical comedy featuring the most-loved Jimmy Buffett classics, including “Cheeseburger in Paradise”, “Margaritaville,” “It’s Five O’clock Somewhere,” “Volcano,” and many more. With a book by Emmy Award winner Greg Garcia and Emmy nominee Mike O’Malley, this hilarious, heartwarming musical is the party you’ve been waiting for!

The upcoming production of the musical comedy:Escape to Margaritaville will be running March 13th – March 30th with performances scheduled at 2pm & 7:30pm depending on the day. The cast and creative team for Escape to Margaritaville have been carefully selected from across the country. Some cast and band members hail from the Roanoke region and this production includes several alumni from Mill Mountain Theatre who are part of the cast, creative team and band.  Starring in the show, we welcome to MMT, Michael Walker* who will be playing “Tully,” Felicia Martis who will be playing “Rachel,” the workaholic, Ariana Valdes* who will be playing “Tammy,” with Elliott Smith who will be playing “Brick.” Additional cast announcements to come soon.

Returning to Mill Mountain Theatre to Direct and Choreograph ‘Escape to Margaritaville’ is Héctor Flores Jr. He recently directed the hit musicals ‘Elf,’ ‘Matilda the Musical’ and ‘In the Heights’ at Mill Mountain Theatre.

Joining Flores Jr. as an associate choreographer is AnneElise Galleo, who is an alumni and instructor at MMT with our Conservatory Program.

“We are looking forward to kicking off our 60th Anniversary Season Trinkle Mainstage production with a party and Escape to Margaritaville fits the bill! So, grab your Hawaiian shirts and we will see you at Mill Mountain Theatre and welcome you while serving Margaritas in the lobby!” exclaims Ginger Poole, the Producing Artistic Director of MMT. “Also, Margaritaville will be the first use of The Trinkle Mainstage since it’s completion of a $153,000 renovation to improve audience safety and comfort with new carpet, brighter lighting and new handrails,” added Poole.

Contributing to the run of this special show, MMT would like to recognize a few of the sponsors who donated time and resources to our first Trinkle Mainstage production of Escape to Margaritaville, including Avis Construction, Brandon Oaks Retirement Community, Business Solutions Inc., The Candy Store, Davidson’s Clothing for Men, Entré Computer Center, Friendship Foundation, Harry W. “Skip” Hamilton III at Davenport & Company, Innovative Insurance Group, Pinnacle Financial Partners, TheRoanokeStar.com, Universal Health Corporation, Center in the Square, Actors’ Equity Association, Radio IQ/WVTF, National Endowment for the Arts, Virginia Commission for the Arts, and The Shubert Foundation.

Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville is presented by special arrangement with Broadway Licensing, LLC.

Be sure to secure your seat to Escape to Margaritaville running March 13th through March 30th on the Trinkle Mainstage at Mill Mountain Theatre. To purchase tickets or learn more about saving with a season ticket package, visit millmountain.org. or call our Box Office at 540-342-5740. Let’s get this party started!

*Appearing Courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.

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Mill Mountain Theatre’s Fringe Series 2024 Debut, “The Mountaintop”

Roanoke, VA, February 1-11, 2024. The Mountaintop, is a fictional depiction of Dr. Martin Luther King’s final hours amidst a raging storm.  The play unveils the profound humanity of America’s revered civil rights leader. 

The Mountaintop, a play by American playwright Katori Hall, is a mythical story of Dr. Martin Luther King’s last night on Earth set entirely in Room 306 of the Lorraine Motel on the eve of his assassination in 1968. After delivering his historic ‘I’ve Been to the Mountaintop’ speech, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. retires to the Lorraine Motel, where he encounters Camae, a mysterious maid bearing surprising news. Katori Hall’s Award-winning drama reimagines Dr. King’s final night, earning praise from the Associated Press as, “a thrilling, audacious flight of magical realism.” Originally a fringe reading on Mill Mountain Theatre’s Waldron Stage in 2017, we’re excited to present this powerful production.

The upcoming production of Katori Hall’s 2009 critically acclaimed play:The Mountaintop will be running Feb 1 – Feb 11 with an all-star cast and creative team. Earning an Olivier Award for Best New Play, come see this amazing fictional depiction set on the eve of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Starring E.B. Smith (MLK Jr.) and Shannon Sharkey as the beautiful and mysterious maid (Camae).

2017 was Mill Mountain Theatre’s inaugural year of the ‘Waldron Fringe Series’. The series provides an opportunity to produce a collection of groundbreaking contemporary works in the equity theatre’s more intimate space: the Waldron Stage. The Friends of the Fringe is a group of individuals who share a passion for contemporary, thought-provoking, unconventional theatre who work to support Mill Mountain Theatre’s Fringe Series from our home at the Waldron Stage. Through social engagement, fundraising and serving as advocates for the Fringe Series, the Friends of the Fringe work to promote diversity of thought and foster meaningful conversation in an intergenerational setting.

Contributing to the run of this special show, MMT would like to recognize a few of the sponsors who donated time and resources to our first Fringe production of 2024.  Sponsors include Friends of the Fringe, Delta Dental, Ceres Foundation, Inc., Actor’s Equity Association, Center in the Square, National Endowment for the Arts, the Shubert Foundation, Inc., Theatre Communications Group, and the Virginia Commission for the Arts. The Mountaintop is presented by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Services, Inc. in New York.

Be sure to secure your seat to The Mountaintop running February 1st  through February 11th on the Waldron Stage at Mill Mountain Theatre. To purchase tickets or learn more about saving with a season ticket package, visit millmountain.org. or call our Box Office at 540-342-5740.

The Cast of Mill Mountain Theatre’s “Elf the Musical”

This holiday season is about to get a whole lot more “sparklejollytwinklejingley” with the cast of Mill Mountain Theatre’s “Elf the Musical.”

Based on the 2003 New Line Cinema hit film starring Will Ferrell and James Caan, ‘Elf’ has quickly become a holiday tradition for many families. For the first time, this production is being presented on Mill Mountain Theatre’s Trinkle MainStage.

“Elf the Musical is a holiday spectacle featuring some of your favorite moments from the movies with the glamour of a big Broadway musical.” Said Producing Artistic Director, Ginger Poole. 

The cast and creative team for “Elf the Musical” have been carefully selected from across the country. Some cast and band members hail from the Roanoke region, and notably, this production includes several alumni from Mill Mountain Theatre who are part of the cast, creative team and band.

Returning to Mill Mountain Theatre to Direct and Choreograph ‘Elf’ is Héctor Flores Jr. He recently directed the hit musicals ‘Matilda the Musical’ and ‘In The Heights’ at Mill Mountain Theatre.

Joining Flores Jr. as an associate director and choreographer is Joe Barros, a New York-based director and choreographer who recently worked with Broadway’s ‘GIGI,’ starring Vanessa Hudgens and Victoria Clark.

Returning to Mill Mountain Theatre are a range of exceptional artists. This ensemble includes Ben Armstrong (Ensemble/Swing), John Baker* (Mr. Greenway/Santa), Ashlinn Blevins (Ensemble/Swing), Drew D’Alessandro (Ensemble), AnnElese Galleo (Ensemble), Calan Johnson (Michael/Ensemble), Jeffrey McGullion* (Walter), Belle McNamara (Ensemble), Jenna Leigh Miller (Deb/Ensemble), James Moledor (Ensemble), Emily Mower (Ensemble), Natalie Thorell (Ensemble), and Jarrett Jay Yoder* (Buddy).

Additionally, the production showcases a group of talented artists new to Mill Mountain, including Idan Bar (Jovie), Rebecca Lee Lerman* (Emily), Griffin Digsby (Manager/Ensemble), Marina Vidal (Ensemble/Dance Captain), and Ash Marie Alina.

The returning band members, each contributing their musical expertise, include Cindy Blevins (Keys), JT Fauber (Drums), Peyton Gentry (Drums), Teresa Hedrick (Reeds), Mike Havens (Guitar/Bass), and Sam Saint Ours (Music Director).

The creative team, combines familiar faces with new additions. Among the returning team members are Ginger Poole (Producing Artistic Director), Héctor Flores Jr. (Director/Choreographer), Erin Markham* (Assistant Stage Manager), Jimmy Ray Ward (Scenic Designer), Jackson Yowell (Props Designer), Marissa Danielle Duricko (Costume Designer), Savannah Woodruff (Sound Designer), Matt Shields (Director of Production), Chloe Riederich (Wardrobe/Staging Assistant), Sydney Poole (Wardrobe), and Mo Riego de Dios (Wardrobe).

Joining the creative team for their MMT debut are Joe Barros (Associate Director/Choreographer), Ashley Raper* (Production Stage Manager), and Brittney Price (Lighting Designer).


*Appearing Courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.


“Elf the Musical” begins performances on November 29th and runs through December 23rd on the Trinkle MainStage, located inside Center in the Square. Tickets can be purchased online at millmountain.org or by calling the box office at 540-342-5740. 

Sponsors and grantors for “Elf the Musical” include Actors’ Equity Association, Avis Construction, Better Sofas, B.J. Preas, Boxwood Lane, Business Solutions Inc., Carolina Connection, Center in the Square, Claytor/Wirt Associates, Davenport & Company, Delta Dental, Dominion Risk Advisors, Elk Hill Advisors, Fire Station One, Freedom First, Frith Anderson and Peake, Friendship Foundation, Gentry Locke Attorneys, Howell’s Motor Freight Inc., Jewell Machinery, John H. and Michelle S. Higginbotham Foundation, Lunsford a Trustpoint Company, Marsh McLennan Agency, Mast General Store, Miller Long and Associates, National Endowment for the Arts, Oakey’s Funeral Services and Crematory, Parry Restaurant Group, Pinnacle Financial Partners, Roanoke Animal Hospital, Roanoke Gas, Roanoke Valley Orthodontics, Savra Hospitality, Skylina National Bank, Steel Dynamics Inc., The Candy Store, TheRoanokeStar.com, Three Notch’d Brewing Co., Six and Sky Rooftop Grille, Trane Technologies, TXTUR, Universal Health Corporation, Zenbusiness Solutions, and the Virginia Commission for the Arts.

“Elf the Musical” is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com 

Mill Mountain Theatre Presents Holiday Classic: “Elf the Musical”

This holiday season in the Roanoke Valley is about to become even more cheerful with the arrival of “Elf the Musical.” Opening this November, the holiday magic of “Elf the Musical” will grace Mill Mountain Theatre’s Trinkle MainStage.

Based on the modern classic from New Line Cinema, starring Will Ferrell and James Caan, “Elf the Musical” brings your favorite lines and holiday spirit to the stage, featuring eccentric tap numbers and heartwarming music. “Elf” features songs by Tony Award nominees Matthew Sklar (“The Wedding Singer”) and Chad Beguelin (“Disney’s Aladdin on Broadway”), with a book by Tony Award winners Thomas Meehan (“Annie,” “The Producers,” “Hairspray”) and Bob Martin (“The Drowsy Chaperone”).

“Elf the Musical” follows Buddy, a young orphan who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s toy bag on Christmas Eve and is transported to the North Pole. Buddy is raised as an honorary Elf, unaware that he is actually a human until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities force him to confront the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Faced with the harsh realities that his father is on the naughty list and his half-brother doesn’t even believe in Santa, Buddy is determined to win over his new family and help New York rediscover the true meaning of Christmas.

“We love the opportunity to be a part of many families’ holiday traditions,” said Producing Artistic Director Ginger Poole. “We are excited to invite families and friends back to the theatre for a long-standing holiday tradition at Mill Mountain Theatre. Our holiday shows are what make the holiday season special for many of our patrons.”

Returning to direct and choreograph “Elf the Musical” is Héctor Flores Jr., who recently directed and choreographed the sensational production of “Matilda the Musical” this past summer at Mill Mountain Theatre.

Sam Saint Ours returns to Mill Mountain Theatre as the music director, bringing the melodies of “Elf” to life onstage. Ours returns to the Trinkle MainStage after serving as the music director for Mill Mountain Theatre’s last MainStage show, “Bright Star.”

Additional creative team members of “Elf” include Ginger Poole (Producing Artistic Director), Joe Barros (Associate Director/Associate Choreographer), Ashley Raper* (Production Stage Manager), Erin Markham* (Assistant Stage Manager), Jimmy Ray Ward (Scenic Designer), Brittney Price (Lighting Designer), Jackson Yowell (Props Designer), Marissa Danielle Duricko (Costume Designer), Savannah Woodruff (Sound Designer), and Matt Shields (Director of Production).


“Elf the Musical” begins performances on November 29th and runs through December 23rd on the Trinkle MainStage, located inside Center in the Square. Tickets can be purchased online at millmountain.org or by calling the box office at 540-342-5740. 

Sponsors and grantors for ‘Elf’ include Avis Construction, Better Sofas, B.J. Preas, Boxwood Lane, Business Solutions Inc., Carolina Connection, Claytor/Wirt Associates, Davenport & Company, Delta Dental, Dominion Risk Advisors, Elk Hill Advisors, Freedom First, Frith Anderson and Peake, Fire Station One, Friendship Foundation, Gentry Locke Attorneys, John H. and Michelle S. Higginbotham Foundation, Howell’s Motor Freight Inc., Jewell Machinery, The Liberty Trust, Marsh McLennan Agency, Mast General Store, Miller Long and Associates, Oakey’s Funeral Services and Crematory, Parry Restaurant Group, Pinnacle Financial Partners, Roanoke Animal Hospital, Roanoke Gas, Roanoke Valley Orthodontics, Savra Hospitality, Skylina National Bank, Steel Dynamics Inc., The Candy Store, TheRoanokeStar.com, Six and Sky Rooftop Grille, Trane Technologies, TXTUR, Lunsford a Trustpoint Company, Universal Health Corporation, Zenbusiness Solutions, Actors’ Equity Association, National Endowment for the Arts, The Shubert Foundation, Theatre Communications Group, Center in the Square and Virginia Commission for the Arts. 
“Elf the Musical” is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com

Mill Mountain Theatre’s Diamond Jubilee: A 60th Season Celebration

Mill Mountain Theatre’s historic 60th Season marks a celebration of captivating stories and unforgettable performances. 

Artistic Director, Ginger Poole, shares, “We wanted to commemorate the shows of our past and celebrate our 60th by bringing new titles to the Trinkle MainStage.”

As the season unfolds, you’ll embark on a journey of diverse and captivating experiences. From the thrilling production of “The Mountaintop” on the Waldron Stage, revealing the profound humanity of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., to the uproarious “Escape to Margaritaville” on the Trinkle MainStage, promising a heartwarming musical comedy filled with beloved Jimmy Buffett classics, your theatrical adventure begins.

In April, join us for the exclusive 60th Anniversary Concert, where enchanting melodies sung by MMT alumni and staff, along with special guest appearances, will transport you through beloved Broadway hits spanning six decades.

In 2024, the Young Audience series kicks off with the enchanting “A Year with Frog and Toad” and the underwater adventure of “Finding Nemo Jr.” These Tony Award-nominated Broadway sensations bring beloved tales to life with lively scores. “A Year with Frog and Toad” celebrates friendship as Frog and Toad navigate changing seasons, while “Finding Nemo Jr.” immerses you in a vibrant underwater world with Marlin, Nemo, and beloved characters. Catch these captivating productions at Mill Mountain Theatre’s The Waldron Stage and Trinkle MainStage.

“Cabaret” immerses you in the lively yet dark world of 1920s Berlin, delivering unforgettable songs and gripping stories of love and change.

“Flat Stanley, The Musical” promises a thrilling global journey as Stanley Lambchop embarks on an adventure to regain his three-dimensional form.

The return of Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” on the Trinkle MainStage offers a thought-provoking exploration of compassion and moral integrity set in a tranquil Alabama town during the Great Depression.

Experience hilarity with “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) (Revised) (Again)” on our Fall Community Tour, condensing all of Shakespeare’s plays into a 97-minute performance.

The grand finale, “Annie,” returns from 2009 and celebrates both the theater’s resilience and the enduring spirit of a plucky orphan in 1930s New York City. Brighten your holiday season with this beloved musical, which you can experience with season tickets available for renewal today by calling the box office at 540-342-5740. Individual tickets and new season tickets will be available for purchase starting November 1st. Join us in celebrating 60 years of remarkable theater!


Mill Mountain Theatre has served as Roanoke’s ticket to Broadway since 1964. Since the theatre’s founding, Mill Mountain Theatre has produced hundreds of shows in-house and hosted world premieres. As a professional, year-round, regional theatre with roots in its community and excellence as its primary objective, Mill Mountain Theatre has proudly served the region and the industry for sixty years!

Save the Date: Mill Mountain Theatre’s
2024 Season Announcement

You’re invited to an evening filled with entertainment and excitement. On October 5th, Mill Mountain Theatre has a big announcement – and you are invited!

Starting on October 5th at 5:30 p.m. Mill Mountain Theatre and Three Notch’d Brewing and Craft Kitchen will kick off MMT’s 60th Season Announcement for the upcoming 2024 season. The reception will start across the street at Three Notch’d, where patrons are welcome to purchase food and drinks. At 6:30 p.m., the free event will move across the street to the Trinkle MainStage.

Guests will then be invited to gather inside the Trinkle MainStage for the main event. This occasion will be celebrated with performances from Mill Mountain Theatre’s outstanding Conservatory Students and members of the MMT Staff.

“We have hand-picked these titles built around our audience’s requests and to uplift the Roanoke Valley and we cannot wait to share them with everyone!” Said Producing Artistic Director, Ginger Poole. “We truly believe that this is an amazing season and we can’t wait for you to return to your seats with us as we celebrate with us in 2024.”

Each show picked by Mill Mountain Theatre aligns with the theatre’s mission to inspire, entertain, enrich, educate and challenge audiences of Southwest Virginia through high-quality, professional theatrical productions and experiences.

Join us for the unveiling of MMT’s 2024 Season on October 5th, starting at 5:30 p.m. at Three Notch’d. Can’t make it in person? No worries! We’ll also be streaming the event live on Mill Mountain Theatre’s Facebook page. And here’s the best part – you can enjoy delicious food and drinks available for purchase at Three Notch’d. Plus, there’s no need to RSVP; tickets to the event are completely free!

Three Notch’d Craft Kitchen and Brewery is located at 24 Campbell Ave SE, Roanoke, VA 24011. The Trinkle MainStage is located across the street at 1 Market Square SE, Roanoke, VA 24011.


Mill Mountain Theatre has served as Roanoke’s ticket to Broadway since 1964. Since the theatre’s founding, Mill Mountain Theatre has produced hundreds of shows in-house and hosted world premieres. As a professional, year-round, regional theatre with roots in its community and excellence as its primary objective, Mill Mountain Theatre has proudly served the region and the industry for nearly sixty years!

Bright Star: From a Garlic Cracker to Broadway

Discover the captivating journey of “Bright Star,” an Appalachian-infused musical co-crafted by comedian and banjo maestro Steve Martin, alongside prolific songwriter and the captivating lead vocalist of “Edie Brickell & New Bohemians,” Edie Brickell. From an accidental lyrical riff to the grand stages of Broadway, explore the harmonious tale that celebrates bluegrass melodies against the backdrop of Asheville’s Blue Ridge Mountains, tracing its notes of success, challenges and enduring charm.

The musical duo first met over a group dinner, where they sat next to one another. In an interview, Brickell recalled, “Steve was the only one to offer me these garlic crackers.” Both were initially shy and the two wouldn’t meet again until five years later, when Brickell praised Martin’s recently released album.

Their music partnership began around 2013 when Martin sent a piece of a song he was workshopping on the banjo to Brickell, who then began improvising lyrics over Martin’s song. Her original lyrics were “When you get to Nashville, send me an email.” She then realized that Asheville was located in the Blue Ridge Mountains and would work better for Martin’s plucking. The song “When You Get to Asheville” launched their 2013 album and their “Love Has Come for You” tour, kickstarting their future collaborative efforts on “Bright Star.”

Before Broadway, “Bright Star” began developing the musical at the Old Globe Theatre in San Diego in 2014. The show then made its leap to the East Coast at The Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. for its Broadway pre-engagement run, as a way for producers to test audience interest prior to opening on Broadway.

30 preview performances later, “Bright Star” opened on Broadway on March 24th, 2016, at the Cort Theatre. The show garnered attention for its strong bluegrass score and dedicated performances from its leads. 

During award season, “Bright Star” claimed victory at the 2016 Outer Critics Circle Awards, securing accolades for Best Musical and Best Score. Additionally, the production earned a Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Music. The musical also garnered five Tony Award nominations, spanning categories such as Best Musical, Best Score, Best Book, Best Lead Actress in a Musical and Best Orchestrations. Beyond its recognition within the theatre world, “Bright Star’s” album achieved notable success on the Billboard Bluegrass charts, making an impressive debut at the second position.

“Bright Star” closed on June 26th, 2016, with just 30 previews and 109 performances later. Martin, Brickell and her husband, Paul Simon, poured over $1 million into “Bright Star ” to prolong its Broadway run just past the Tony Nomination window. Martin was even known to make surprise on-stage appearances as the show’s banjo player.

The Tony Nominations provided “Bright Star” with a modest uptick in ticket sales, yet faced a challenging battle amidst a tumultuous and competitive Broadway season. This season featured the debut of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s groundbreaking production, “Hamilton,” as well as the adored score by Sara Bareilles for “Waitress.” Additionally, the burgeoning star power of Cynthia Erivo in “The Color Purple” and the energetic resonance of Broadway’s youthful performers in “School of Rock” collectively posed formidable competition. In the midst of such vibrant offerings and despite its uniqueness, “Bright Star” found itself struggling to command attention and stand out. 

Once the show closed, the show’s producer, Joey Parnes stated in a BroadwayWorld article, “So much of Bright Star’s beauty comes from the fact it is utterly free of irony. In these cynical times, this quality proved to be totally refreshing to audience members, and also created a unique challenge in attracting them.”

Post-Broadway, “Bright Star” has built a growing fan base across the globe as a musical comedy with catchy bluegrass music and Appalachian charm, making this show a popular choice among regional theatres and audiences alike. Over the next year and a half, 84 regional theatres are scheduled to produce “Bright Star,” including Roanoke’s own, Mill Mountain Theatre. 


“Bright Star” will take place from September 13th through October 1st on the Trinkle MainStage. For more information, visit millmountain.org or call the box office at 540-342-5740.

Sponsors and Grantors for “Bright Star” include 5Points Creative, B.J. Preas, Business Solutions Inc., Davidson’s Clothing for Men, Delta Dental, Fire Station One Boutique Hotel, Innovative Insurance Group, Pinnacle Financial Partners, The Candy Store, TheRoanokeStar.com, Trane Technologies, The W.E. McGuire Foundation, TXTUR, Zenbusiness, Actors’ Equity Association, The National Endowment for the Arts, The Shubert Foundation, Theatre Communications Group, Center in the Square, Radio IQ/WVTF, Friends of the Fringe and Virginia Commission for the Arts. 

Acclaimed Broadway Stars Flock to Roanoke for Mill Mountain Theatre’s Bright Star

The lights of Broadway are about to shine brighter in Roanoke as stars flock to the Star City for Mill Mountain Theatre’s production of “Bright Star.”

Broadway stars James Moye, Mamie Parris and Nick Kepley are heading to Roanoke to work on the upcoming production of “Bright Star” written by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell. This trio has extensive experience on Broadway Stages.

Moye, a Christiansburg native returns to Mill Mountain Theatre to direct “Bright Star” after directing the acclaimed “Million Dollar Quartet” in 2021 at MMT. The James Madison University alum has worked on over 13 Off-Broadway and Broadway productions, including “Dear Evan Hansen,” “Aladdin,” “Dog Fight,” and “Million Dollar Quartet” to name a few. Moye also was a part of the original workshop for “Bright Star” before it hit the Broadway stage. 

Parris makes her Trinkle MainStage debut after belting across the globe and on many of Broadway’s largest stages. She sang her way into audiences’ memories after starring as Grizabella in Broadway’s revival of “Cats.” In addition to the Andrew Lloyd Weber classic, Parris rocked audiences as Patty in “School of Rock.” Before she rocked the house, she soared to new heights and defied gravity in the titular role of Elphaba in the first national tour of “Wicked.” Parris tells the “lost lamb” story of the lead character, Alice Murphy.

Kepley, a native of Asheville, NC, returns to Roanoke after previously choreographing Mill Mountain Theatre’s 2018 production of “West Side Story.” In 2015, Kepley joined the choreography behind the renowned Broadway show “Waitress,” and prior to the Broadway debut of “Bright Star,” Kepley collaborated with Josh Rhodes on developing the show’s choreography. Kepley’s versatility shone as a cast member in Disney’s “Mary  Poppins” on Broadway, where they adeptly undertook multiple roles. Adding to their repertoire, Kepley graced the NBC cult-classic show, “SMASH” and PBS’s “Great Performances,” while their earlier years were marked by devoted summers of training at the School of American Ballet and The Juilliard School. 

“Bright Star” is a musical with an Appalachian core and bluegrass roots. Inspired by a true story and featuring the Tony®-nominated score by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell, “Bright Star” tells a sweeping tale of love and redemption set against the rich backdrop of the American South in the 1920s and ’40s. When literary editor Alice Murphy meets a young soldier just home from World War II, he awakens her longing for the child she once lost. Haunted by their unique connection, Alice sets out on a journey to understand her past—and what she finds has the power to transform both of their lives. With beautiful melodies and powerfully moving characters, the story unfolds as a rich tapestry of deep emotion. An uplifting theatrical journey that holds you tightly in its grasp, “Bright Star” is as refreshingly genuine as it is daringly hopeful.

Similar to the story’s Appalachian roots, the cast includes actors from Appalachia and Southwest Virginia. The cast consists of Ben Armstrong (Ensemble), Danny Borba (Ensemble/Max/Stanford), Sarah Coleman (Ensemble), Sade Crosby (Ensemble/Edna/Clerk), Alaina Droog (Margo), AnnElese Galleo (Ensemble), *Robert Hancock (Mayor/Daddy Cane), Burke Hutchinson (Dr. Norquist/Daryl), *Trevor St. John-Gilbert (Jimmy Ray), Caitlin McAvoy (Lucy), *Jeffrey McGullion (Daddy Murphy), Jenna Leigh Miller (Ensemble/Mamma Murphy/Florence), James Moledor (Ensemble), James Henry Owens (Billy Cane) and *Mamie Parris (Alice Murphy).

“Bright Star” will feature a live band with Sam Saint Ours (Keys/Conductor), JT Fauber (Drums), Michael Havens (Guitar) and Jeff Hofmann (Upright Bass). 

The creative team for Bright Star includes James Moye (Director), Ginger Poole (Producing Artistic Director), Nick Kepley (Choreographer), Sam Saint Ours (Music Director), *Peppy Biddy (Production Stage Manager), *Erin Alexis Markham (Assistant Stage Manager), Jimmy Ray Ward (Scenic Designer), Bill Webb (Lighting Designer), l (Props Designer), Jennie Ruhland (Costume Designer), Audrey Hamilton (Costume Designer), Savannah Woodruff (Sound Designer), Matt Shields (Props Designer/Director of Production) and Sydney Poole (Wardrobe). 


“Bright Star” will take place from September 13th through October 1st on the Trinkle MainStage. For more information, visit millmountain.org or call the box office at 540-342-5740.

Sponsors and Grantors for “Bright Star” include 5Points Creative, B.J. Preas, Business Solutions Inc., Davidson’s Clothing for Men, Delta Dental, Fire Station One Boutique Hotel, Innovative Insurance Group, Pinnacle Financial Partners, The Candy Store, TheRoanokeStar.com, Trane Technologies, The W.E. McGuire Foundation, TXTUR, Zenbusiness, Actors’ Equity Association, The National Endowment for the Arts, The Shubert Foundation, Theatre Communications Group, Center in the Square, Radio IQ/WVTF, Friends of the Fringe and Virginia Commission for the Arts.

Mill Mountain Theatre Presents “Bright Star”

The Sun is going to shine again. From the clever and hilarious minds of Steve Martin and Edie Brickell is “Bright Star,” an original musical based on a true story.

A musical rooted in bluegrass music, Appalachian culture and the Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, North Carolina. “Bright Star” features the Tony®-nominated score by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell, “Bright Star,” tells a sweeping tale of love and redemption set against the rich backdrop of the American South in the 1920s and ’40s. 

This musical follows a literary editor, Alice Murphy as she meets a young soldier just home from World War II, he awakens her longing for the child she once lost. Haunted by their unique connection, Alice sets out on a journey to understand her past—and what she finds has the power to transform both of their lives. With beautiful melodies and powerfully moving characters, the story unfolds as a rich tapestry of deep emotion. An uplifting theatrical journey that holds you tightly in its grasp, “Bright Star” is as refreshingly genuine as it is daringly hopeful.

“Bright Star” opens the Fringe Series on the Trinkle MainStage at Mill Mountain Theatre. “The Fringe Series tackles challenging topics and shares different perspectives as we invite our audiences to step into someone else’s shoes.” Said Producing Artistic Director, Ginger Poole. “We later encourage our audiences to discuss these important topics and hope to shed light on these difficult subjects.”

Returning to the director’s chair is Christiansburg native, James Madison University Alumni and Broadway star, James Moye. Moye worked on the original workshop for “Bright Star,” before it hit the big stage on Broadway. He returns to Mill Mountain Theatre after directing the 2021 production of “Million Dollar Quartet.” Moye has over 14 credits for both Broadway and Off-Broadway, including “Dear Evan Hansen,” “Aladdin,” “Dog Fight,” “Million Dollar Quartet,” and “Ragtime” to name a few.

“Bright Star” will feature a live band with Sam Saint Ours (Keys/Conductor), JT Fauber (Drums), Michael Havens (Guitar) and Jeff Hofmann (Upright Bass). 

The creative team for Bright Star includes James Moye (Director), Ginger Poole (Producing Artistic Director), Nick Kepley (Choreographer), Sam Saint Ours (Music Director), Peppy Biddy* (Production Stage Manager), Erin Alexis Markham* (Assistant Stage Manager), Jimmy Ray Ward (Scenic Designer), Bill Webb (Lighting Designer), Jackson Yowell (Props Designer), Jennie Ruhland (Costume Designer), Savannah Woodruff (Sound Designer), Matt Shields (Director of Production) and Sydney Poole (Wardrobe). 


“Bright Star” will take place from September 13th through October 1st on the Trinkle MainStage. For more information, visit millmountain.org or call the box office at 540-342-5740.

Sponsors and Grantors for “Bright Star” include 5Points Creative, B.J. Preas, Business Solutions Inc., Davidson’s Clothing for Men, Delta Dental, Fire Station One Boutique Hotel, Innovative Insurance Group, Pinnacle Financial Partners, The Candy Store, TheRoanokeStar.com, Trane Technologies, The W.E. McGuire Foundation, TXTUR, Zenbusiness, Actors’ Equity Association, The National Endowment for the Arts, The Shubert Foundation, Theatre Communications Group, Center in the Square, Radio IQ/WVTF, Friends of the Fringe and Virginia Commission for the Arts.

Mill Mountain Theatre Conservatory Unveils Exciting Fall Classes and Talent-Packed Team

Mill Mountain Theatre is gearing up for an exhilarating fall semester, bringing fresh talent to its education team and introducing exciting classes for aspiring performers, dancers and theatre enthusiasts of all ages.

We are thrilled to announce Francesca Reilly as the new Director of Education, stepping up from her previous roles as MMT’s education associate and community engagement coordinator. With her exceptional expertise and passion for nurturing young talents, Reilly is set to lead our education team to new heights.

Welcoming back the immensely talented, Bethany Costello as a guest artist, we are eager to have her lend her expertise to our esteemed musical theatre classes. Her dedication and experience in the industry make her a valuable asset to our Conservatory.

Joining us for the first time is the Broadway alumni and Roanoke native, Scott Foxx. Having worked with acclaimed Broadway shows such as “Beetlejuice,” “Wicked” and “The Lion King,” Foxx’s impressive background adds a touch of Broadway magic to our theatre. We are honored to have him on board to inspire and mentor our students.

This semester, we are expanding our class offerings with six new additions, alongside five returning favorites from previous semesters. From PreK to Adult, there’s something for everyone at Mill Mountain Theatre Conservatory.

Dance enthusiasts can explore our four new approachable and advanced dance classes. “Leaps & Turns” is perfect for 5th to 12th-grade dancers, focusing on essential leaping styles used across various dance forms. “Ballet Technique: for Beginner to Advanced Beginner” lays the foundation for classic ballet and other dance styles. And let’s not forget “Classic Jazz Fusion,” a captivating journey through traditional, street and funk jazz dance styles.

For our young performers, the “Elementary & Middle Acting Company” class offers an exciting opportunity to navigate the audition, casting and rehearsal process for a class production. Students who participate in both sections of this class will get to present a show-stopping performance in front of friends and family.

Middle & High School students looking to take the stage can audition for the “Acting & Playwriting Conservatory.” In this two-section course, students will create their own production from start to finish, showcasing their talent in a unique and unforgettable way.

We haven’t forgotten the importance of physical fitness for performers. Our new “Strength & Conditioning” class is designed to keep students performance-ready, using strength equipment such as resistance bands, foam rollers and exercise balls.

Moreover, our fall lineup includes returning favorites such as “Elementary Music Theatre,” “Middle & High School Music Theatre,” “Music Theatre Conservatory (Audition-only),” “PreK – 2nd Grade Acting & Creative Movement” and “Acting & Improv.”

Mill Mountain Theatre Conservatory has a lot to offer this semester, with a total of 11 courses offered from PreK to Adult, taught by industry experts. Classes kick off on September 5th and run through October 30th, with select classes ending on December 15th. Register by August 14th and save $25 off your class.


Mill Mountain Theatre has served as Roanoke’s ticket to Broadway since 1964. Since the theatre’s founding, Mill Mountain Theatre has produced hundreds of shows in-house and hosted world premieres. As a professional, year-round, regional theatre with roots in its community and excellence as its primary objective, Mill Mountain Theatre has proudly served the region and the industry for nearly sixty years!

Hidden Valley Middle School Students Shine on Stage

Every once in a while there’s something extraordinary. Three of Hidden Valley Middle School’s extraordinarily talented students have been selected to perform in Mill Mountain Theatre’s MainStage production of “Matilda the Musical.”

Hidden Valley Middle Students, Amelia Raring, Jack Swank and Natalie Thorell shine on stage in “Matilda the Musical” – joining 20 other youth performers from across Southwest Virginia.

Raring makes her Trinkle MainStage debut as the brilliantly resilient, Matilda. Raring is a member of Mill Mountain Theatre’s Conservatory program and recently performed in “Peter and Wendy” in the roles of Master Panther and Mermaid #2. Returning to the Trinkle MainStage as Nigel, a friend of Matilda, this role is portrayed by Swank. Prior to Matilda, Swank recently performed in Mill Mountain Theatre’s production of Irving Berlin’s “Holiday Inn” as Charlie Winslow and starred as Peter Pan in “Peter and Wendy.” Dancing back onto the Trinkle MainStage is Thorell, who plays Hortensia and is a part of the 18-member ensemble. Thorell frequently takes classes at Mill Mountain Theatre Conservatory and recently joined Raring and Swank on stage as Tinker Bell in “Peter and Wendy.”

Under the guidance of guest director and choreographer, Héctor Flores Jr., from New York City, these Broadway-caliber students have undergone a rigorous three-week rehearsal process to prepare for an incredible run of 14 shows over two weeks.

Matilda is a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence and psychokinetic powers. She’s unloved by her cruel parents but impresses her schoolteacher, the highly loveable Miss Honey. Over the course of her first term at school, Matilda and Miss Honey have a profound effect on each other’s lives, as Miss Honey begins not only to recognize but also appreciate Matilda’s extraordinary personality. Matilda’s school life isn’t completely smooth sailing, however – the school’s mean headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, hates children and just loves thinking up new punishments for those who don’t abide by her rules. But Matilda has courage and cleverness in equal amounts, and could be the school pupils’ saving grace!

The musical adaptation took over London’s West End in 2011 and claimed seven Olivier Awards® including Best Musical. The beloved musical transferred to Broadway in 2013 where the show won four Tony Awards® including Best Book of a Musical.

The complete cast comprises several seasoned stage veterans such as Ben Armstrong (Doctor/Ensemble), Alivia Brown (Ensemble), Carter Cecil (Ensemble), Drew D’Alessandro (Tommy/Ensemble), Rory Grant (Bruce), Emma Harvey (Ensemble), Elise LeGault (Ensemble), Sylvia MacNab (Ensemble), Eve McLoney (Alice), Belle McNamara (Amanda), Caroline Moledor (Mrs. Wormwood), James Moledor (Rudolpho/Ensemble), Riley Parks (Ensemble), Ruth Parsons (Lavender), Amelia Raring (Matilda), Jadyn Rhodes (Ensemble), William Richardson (Ensemble), Ellen Riegger (Mrs. Phelps), Brent Saunders (Eric), Ruby Spence (Trunchbull), Jack Swank (Nigel), Natalie Thorell (Hotensia/Ensemble), Ann Marie Thorell (Ensemble), Lilah Vanke (Miss Honey), Holden White (Michael Wormwood), DeMarion Williams (Escapologist/Ensemble) and Cameron Wimbish (Mr. Wormwood).

Filling out the creative team for “Matilda the Musical” is Ginger Poole (Producing Artistic Director), Héctor Flores Jr. (Director/Choreographer), Bethany Costello (Music Director), Will Farris (Production Stage Manager), Tyler Osgood (Rehearsal Stage Manager), Ashlinn Blevins (Assistant Stage Manager), Jimmy Ray Ward (Scenic Designer), Addie Pawlick (Lighting Designer), Sarah Holsted (Props Designer), Jessica Gaffney (Costume Designer), Savannah Woodruff (Sound Designer) and Matt Shields (Director of Production). A digital program is provided by Marquee Digital.


“Matilda the Musical” will take place from July 26th through August 6th on the Trinkle MainStage. For more information, visit millmountain.org or call the box office at 540-342-5740.

Sponsors and grantors include Carilion Clinic, Dunkenberger-Waskey Group at Morgan Stanley, Adobe Creative Cloud Express, American National Bank & Trust Company, B.J. Preas, Boxley Materials, Business Solutions Inc., Cary Street Partners, Cox Communications, Davis H. Elliot Company, Delta Dental of Virginia, Member One Federal Credit Union, Fire Station One Boutique Hotel, Nancy Ruth Patterson, Pinnacle Financial Partners, Punch Boutique, Roanoke Valley Orthodontics, The Candy Store, TheRoanokeStar.com, TXTUR, The Shubert Foundation, ZenBusiness, Center in the Square, National Endowment for the Arts and Virginia Commission for the Arts.

Mill Mountain Theatre’s Cast of Matilda the Musical

The stage is set for Roanoke’s brightest stars to shine in “Matilda the Musical” at Mill Mountain Theatre. 

Nearly 25 youth performers from across Southwest Virginia have been selected to perform in the hit musical inspired by the Roald Dahl novel on the Trinkle MainStage. The highly anticipated production is Directed and Choreographed by Héctor Flores Jr., who previously directed “In The Heights” at Mill Mountain Theatre.

Matilda is a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence and psychokinetic powers. She’s unloved by her cruel parents but impresses her schoolteacher, the highly loveable Miss Honey. Over the course of her first term at school, Matilda and Miss Honey have a profound effect on each other’s lives, as Miss Honey begins not only to recognize but also appreciate Matilda’s extraordinary personality. Matilda’s school life isn’t completely smooth sailing, however – the school’s mean headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, hates children and just loves thinking up new punishments for those who don’t abide by her rules. But Matilda has courage and cleverness in equal amounts, and could be the school pupils’ saving grace!

The musical adaptation took over London’s West End in 2011 and claimed seven Olivier Awards® including Best Musical. The beloved musical transferred to Broadway in 2013 where the show won four Tony Awards® including Best Book of a Musical. 

The local cast consists of many stage veterans such as Ben Armstrong (Doctor/Ensemble), Alivia Brown (Ensemble), Carter Cecil (Sergei/Ensemble), Drew D’Alessandro (Tommy/Ensemble), Rory Grant (Bruce), Emma Harvey (Ensemble), Elise LeGault (Ensemble), Sylvia MacNab (Ensemble), Eve McLoney (Alice), Belle McNamara (Amanda), Caroline Moledor (Mrs. Wormwood), James Moledor (Rudolpho/Ensemble), Riley Parks (Ensemble), Ruth Parsons (Lavender), Amelia Raring (Matilda), Jadyn Rhodes (Ensemble), William Richardson (Ensemble), Ellen Riegger (Mrs. Phelps), Brent Saunders (Eric), Ruby Spence (Trunchbull), Jack Swank (Nigel), Natalie Thorell (Hotensia/Ensemble), Ann Marie Thorell (Ensemble), Lilah Vanke (Miss Honey), Holden White (Michael Wormwood), DeMarion Williams (Escapologist/Ensemble) and Cameron Wimbish (Mr. Wormwood). 

Filling out the creative team for “Matilda the Musical” is Ginger Poole (Producing Artistic Director), Héctor Flores Jr. (Director/Choreographer), Bethany Costello (Music Director), Will Farris (Production Stage Manager), Tyler Osgood (Rehearsal Stage Manager), Ashlinn Blevins (Assistant Stage Manager), Jimmy Ray Ward (Scenic Designer), Addie Pawlick (Lighting Designer), Sarah Holsted (Props Designer), Jessica Gaffney (Costume Designer), Savannah Woodruff (Sound Designer) and Matt Shields (Director of Production). A digital program is provided by Marquee Digital. 


“Matilda the Musical” will take place from July 26th through August 6th on the Trinkle MainStage. For more information, visit millmountain.org or call the box office at 540-342-5740.

Sponsors and grantors include Carilion Clinic, Dunkenberger-Waskey Group at Morgan Stanley, Adobe Creative Cloud Express, American National Bank & Trust Company, B.J. Preas, Boxley Materials, Business Solutions Inc., Cary Street Partners, Cox Communications, Davis H. Elliot Company, Delta Dental of Virginia, Member One Federal Credit Union, Fire Station One Boutique Hotel, Nancy Ruth Patterson, Pinnacle Financial Partners, Punch Boutique, Roanoke Valley Orthodontics, The Candy Store, TheRoanokeStar.com, TXTUR, The Shubert Foundation, ZenBusiness, Center in the Square, National Endowment for the Arts and Virginia Commission for the Arts.

Step Into the Spotlight: Mill Mountain Theatre & Fire Station One Host Giveaway

We heard you needed a vacation. Whether it’s across town or across the country, Mill Mountain Theatre and Fire Station One want to treat you like a star.

For the remainder of Mill Mountain Theatre’s 2023 season, MMT is teaming up with downtown Roanoke’s newest boutique hotel, Fire Station One, to give away a total of 20 $100 vouchers to patrons of the theatre. These vouchers can be redeemed for your stay at the historic hotel.

Experience the perfect night in downtown Roanoke. Before the show, retreat to the historic 115-year-old firehouse just steps away from Mill Mountain Theatre’s Trinkle MainStage. Fire Station One offers comfortable amenities and exquisite dining options at its Stock Café, which serves delectable Nordic and Scandinavian cuisine. After dinner, head over for a standing ovation-worthy performance at Mill Mountain Theatre.

To be automatically entered, purchase tickets to a first-week performance at Mill Mountain Theatre. Qualifying shows include “Matilda the Musical,” “Bright Star,” and “Elf the Musical.” Additionally, you can enter the giveaway on Mill Mountain Theatre’s website. Mill Mountain Theatre will contact the winners after the first week of performances from their remaining Trinkle MainStage productions.

This giveaway is made possible by Fire Station One and TXTUR, sponsors of Mill Mountain Theatre’s 2023 season.

*Only one entry per person. Must be 21+ to enter. The voucher is only redeemable at Fire Station One Boutique Hotel. Conditions of use, in addition to availability, are determined by the hotel. The winner will be selected at random by Mill Mountain Theatre and notified via the contact information provided during entry. If the winner does not respond within a specified timeframe, a new winner may be chosen. Additional restrictions apply. Visit millmountain.org/promo for details. No purchase is necessary to enter.

Teacher’s Night at Matilda the Musical

Dear educators,

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to you for your unwavering commitment and exceptional efforts. Your hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed. In light of this, we are thrilled to present you with an enticing opportunity: an exclusive discount on tickets to Roald Dahl’s enchanting masterpiece, “Matilda the Musical,” at Mill Mountain Theatre.

Join us for Teacher’s Night, a special occasion designed to honor and celebrate the extraordinary contributions of educators like yourself. On July 26th, Mill Mountain Theatre will set the stage for an unforgettable evening filled with laughter, joy, and the pure delight of witnessing a timeless tale brought to life with Roald Dahl’s “Matilda the Musical!” 

Matilda transcends from the pages of the classic novel to a thrilling performance on stage featuring the region’s premier youth talent. 

For a limited time, you and a friend can enjoy a remarkable 15% discount on your tickets, by registering on our website, making this an extraordinary offer that should not be missed. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Matilda, where imagination knows no bounds and the magic of storytelling unfolds before your eyes. This is a chance to experience the enchantment and wonder of live theater at its finest.

Thank you once again for your dedication and hard work. We look forward to welcoming you and your friend to Mill Mountain Theatre on July 26th, where the magic of Roald Dahl’s “Matilda the Musical” awaits.

*This offer code is only valid for registered teachers and one additional guest. It must be redeemed by July 26, 2023, at 6:29:59 p.m. EST. The discount code is applicable for a maximum of two tickets for the 6:30 p.m. EST performance of “Matilda the Musical” at Mill Mountain Theatre. Please note that tickets are non-exchangeable and non-transferable. Additional restrictions may apply. For a full list of Mill Mountain Theatre’s promotional policies, click here.

Mill Mountain Theatre Presents “Matilda the Musical”

Every once in a while there’s something extraordinary. To change the world all it takes is a little genius. This summer, Mill Mountain Theatre presents Roald Dahl’s “Matilda the Musical!”

Matilda is a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence and psychokinetic powers. She’s unloved by her cruel parents but impresses her schoolteacher, the highly loveable Miss Honey. Over the course of her first term at school, Matilda and Miss Honey have a profound effect on each other’s lives, as Miss Honey begins not only to recognize but also appreciate Matilda’s extraordinary personality. Matilda’s school life isn’t completely smooth sailing, however – the school’s mean headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, hates children and just loves thinking up new punishments for those who don’t abide by her rules. But Matilda has courage and cleverness in equal amounts, and could be the school pupils’ saving grace!

Recently featured as a viral sensation on TikTok and as a Netflix movie based on the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of “Matilda the Musical” in London’s West End, which debuted in 2011. “Matilda the Musical” won seven Oliver Awards, including Best New Musical – the most ever received at the time. Following its successful West End run it transcended to Broadway in 2013 and received five Tony Awards.  

“Matilda the Musical” at Mill Mountain Theatre is an unforgettable showcase of youth talent from across the Roanoke Valley – launching Mill Mountain Theatre’s Young Audience Series on the Trinkle MainStage for the 2023 season. 

Mill Mountain Theatre will welcome back “In The Heights” director and choreographer, Héctor Flores Jr. to fill similar shoes for “Matilda the Musical.” In addition to Flores Jr., members of Mill Mountain Theatre’s education staff will assist with the production. 


Performances for “Matilda the Musical” will take place from July 26th through August 6th on the Trinkle MainStage. For more information visit millmountain.org or call the box office at 540-342-5740.

Sponsors and grantors include Carilion Clinic, Dunkenberger-Waskey Group at Morgan Stanley, Adobe Creative Cloud Express, American National Bank & Trust Company, B.J. Preas, Boxley Materials, Business Solutions Inc., Cary Street Partners, Cox Communications, Davis H. Elliot Company, Delta Dental of Virginia, Member One Federal Credit Union, Firehouse One, Nancy Ruth Patterson, Pinnacle Financial Partners, Punch Boutique, Roanoke Valley Orthodontics, The Candy Store, TheRoanokeStar.com, TXTUR, The Shubert Foundation, ZenBusiness, Center in the Square, National Endowment for the Arts and Virginia Commission for the Arts. 

Mill Mountain Theatre Triumphs With $15,000 Shubert Grant, Strengthening Artistic Impact

Mill Mountain Theatre celebrates a significant achievement by securing a $15,000 grant from the renowned Shubert Foundation. After an 18-year pursuit, this accomplishment highlights Mill Mountain Theatre’s artistic impact on the stage of opportunity.

The Shubert Foundation, a subsidiary of the Shubert Organization, is the oldest professional theatre company in the United States and the largest owner of Broadway theatres. As a leading supporter of nonprofit theatres and dance companies, the foundation ensures that the funds can be directly used for operating expenses. In 2022, $37.6 million was distributed among over 600 nonprofit organizations.

“To be awarded a Shubert grant is not just being welcomed into an exclusive elite of the theatre industry. Rather, it is recognition of inclusion among professionals who care deeply about their communities and audiences.” Said Mill Mountain Theatre’s Director of Development, John Levin. “They are theatres with programs that expand live theatre’s impact and reach. Mill Mountain Theatre’s nine-year-old Young Audiences Series that builds reading skills for young children is such a Shubert-worthy project, maybe it’s what got their attention.”

Mill Mountain Theatre will meet with its board of directors to discuss the opportunities that an unbudgeted, unrestricted grant permits and how it will be distributed. 

While Mill Mountain Theatre had been on the Shubert Foundation’s radar for quite some time, after the theatre’s first submission for the grant in 2005, contact ceased during the theatre’s restructuring from 2009 – 2013 due to financial hardship. In 2014, Levin re-established contact with the foundation’s program director, at the time the Shubert Foundation expressed concerns over the theatre’s sustainability. 

Undeterred, Levin persisted in pursuing a grant from the Shubert Foundation, maintaining annual communication despite receiving rejection letters. With each passing year, his optimism grew. In 2022, Levin and Ginger Poole, the theatre’s producing artistic director, concluded their annual conference call and were requested to apply by the Shubert Foundation’s program director.

Levin and Poole pointed out to one another after the call “The tone in her voice seemed warmer.”

The application process for the Shubert Foundation Grant is 15 pages long, a notably long application for an online format. The foundation required detailed information encompassing the theatre’s programming, finances, audiences, staff, board of directors, facilities, associations with other nonprofits and recent efforts toward diversity, equity and inclusion. 

Levin commented on the challenges of the application process, stating, “The absence of word limits in the text boxes necessitates editing and refining the content, ensuring focused responses to specific questions while avoiding hyperbole. Maintaining transparency is crucial, considering the foundation’s extensive industry connections where secrets are hard to keep.”

Notably, several other Virginia theatres have also been honored with Shubert grants including the Barter Theatre in Abingdon, Signature Theatre in Arlington, Richmond Triangle Players and Virginia Repertory Theatre in Richmond and Virginia Stage Company in Norfolk.


Mill Mountain Theatre has served as Roanoke’s ticket to Broadway since 1964. Since the theatre’s founding, Mill Mountain Theatre has produced hundreds of shows in-house and hosted world premieres. As a professional, year-round, regional theatre with roots in its community and excellence as its primary objective, Mill Mountain Theatre has proudly served the region and the industry for nearly sixty years! 

Mad Libs Live: Touring Southwest Virginia

Get the chance to write your own show this summer and watch your words come to life on stage!

Mill Mountain Theatre presents “Mad Libs Live!” a tour, traveling across the greater Roanoke Valley. Audiences will get to make each show different by controlling the show’s lines – just like in the famous “Mad Libs” book series.

Our story begins at the finals of Teen Superstars, the live TV show that will determine the most popular singing group at Blankville Central High. Virtuosa, Gogo, Geyser, and Merrily seem to have nothing in common – until just before airtime, when they realize that their songs are missing words! In the spirit of the “World’s Greatest Word Game,” our gang fills in the blanks with words from the audience! This truly interactive musical changes at every performance – thanks to you! Will GoGo get the girl? Will Geyser make new friends? Will Merrily come out of her shell? Will Virtuosa get out of the spotlight? And who will be the next Teen Superstars?? There is only one way to find out: Mad Libs Live!

The cast of “Mad Libs Live” will feature collegiate performers from all over the country and will welcome Roanoke as their home for just over a month.

“Mad Libs Live” is part of Mill Mountain Theatre’s initiative to connect theatre to literacy. Free books will be available for audience members to take throughout the performance.


Performances for “Mad Libs Live!” will take place from June 13th through July 14th touring the Roanoke Valley. Tickets for this event are free. For more information and tour locations, visit millmountain.org

Sponsors and grantors include Dunkenberger-Waskey Group at Morgan Stanley, American National Bank & Trust Company, Boxley Materials, Carilion Clinic, Cary Street Partners, Cox Communications, Davis H. Elliot Company, Member One Federal Credit Union, Nancy Ruth Patterson, Punch Boutique, TheRoanokeStar.com, Center in the Square, National Endowment for the Arts and Virginia Commission for the Arts.

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