News - Mill Mountain Theatre

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!”

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.

Charlotte’s Web | Sensory-Friendly Performance

We are excited to offer a Sensory Friendly performance of Charlotte’s Web on May 10th at 6:30 p.m. Here’s what to expect:

All tickets must be reserved prior to the show. To reserve please email francesca@nullmillmountain.org

The house lights will remain on during the performance, rather than completely off.

The intensity of the lighting and sound effects will be reduced. There will be no flashing or strobe lights.

A quiet area will be available in the lobby for guests who need to take a break from the show.

Guests are free to talk during the performance if needed. Additionally, the use of tablets and smartphones will be permitted to help non-verbal audience members communicate, though photo and video recording of the production is still not permitted.

Guests can enter or exit the theatre during the performance.

The theatre will have a limited number of designated standing and wheelchair-accessible spaces.

All patrons will receive a content advisory handout prior to the show.

Reserve Your Seat

Charlotte’s Web at Mill Mountain Theatre

Join us on an adventure with two unlikely friends Wilbur the Pig and Charlotte the Spider in the musical stage adaptation of E.B. White’s “Charlotte’s Web.”

White’s book is adapted into an even more loveable musical by Joseph Robinette with ear-catching music by Charles Strouse. Fern Arable is the eight-year-old daughter of John Arable, a pig farmer. Fern pleaded with her father to prevent turning the runt of the litter into bacon. In exchange for saving the pig, Fern nurtures the pig and names him Wilbur, who makes an unlikely and inseparable bond with a spider, named Charlotte.

“Charlotte’s Web” is part of Mill Mountain Theatre’s Young Audience Series and MMT’s reading initiative to connect theatre to literature.

The classic children’s book will feature young actors from across the Roanoke Valley on Mill Mountain Theatre’s Waldron Stage. The cast includes Catherine Hester Addington, Ben Armstrong, Grace Cordle, Kamryn Cox, Campbell Duff, Keeli Emery, Drayven English, Kayla Ford, Gabby Harig, Harper Klein, Emily Mower, Andi-Grace Novell, Will Richardson, Ellen Riegger, Brielle Smith, Ruby Spence, Lily Stanley, Bella Turner, Charlier Villier and DeMarion Williams.

The creative team for “Charlotte’s Web” includes Mill Mountain Theatre’s Ginger Poole (Producing Artistic Director), Victoria Buck (Director), Francesca Reilly (Stage Manager), Josh Polk (Choreographer) and Seth Davis (Music Director).

Performances will take place from May 4th through May 14th on the Waldron Stage. All tickets are ‘Pay What You Can’ at the door and are ineligible for reservations. Alternatively, Mill Mountain Theatre is hosting a ‘Sensory Friendly Performance’ through reservation only on May 10th at 6:30 p.m. For more information, 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, Nancy Ruth Patterson, Punch Boutique, TheRoanokeStar.com, Center in the Square, Actors’ Equity Association, The National Endowment for the Arts and Virginia Commission for the Arts.

One Week Until Showtime

Mill Mountain Theatre is no stranger to producing high-caliber musicals and plays in the heart of the Roanoke Valley.

Since 2015, Mill Mountain Theatre began producing its own concerts by inviting local fan favorites, MMT alumni, Conservatory students and staff to perform on its stage.

“We developed these concerts as a way to connect with our audiences, invite them to get out of their seats, to dance and sing with us, which isn’t your typical experience in a theatre.” Said MMT’s Producing Artistic Director, Ginger Poole. “We truly want to interact with our audiences and for them to have a fun, memorable experience here.”

Rehearsals for the concert are unlike any other with only a week of preparation time for the artists and the musicians. Whereas MMT’s recent production of “Jersey Boys” had a three-week rehearsal period. For comparison, according to Billboard, Taylor Swift’s “Era’s Tour” had two and a half months of rehearsal time.

“One week of rehearsals certainly has many challenges, however, it adds to the excitement once we see the finished product. Our artists love the challenge and they have fun with it as a way to showcase their outstanding talents.” Said, Poole.

Mill Mountain Theatre’s Resident Music Director, Seth Davis has curated music from nearly 60 composers and lyricists, almost 40 songs and close to 100 years of Broadway’s hit show tunes.

The “Best of Broadway” will feature a live band of local musicians JT Fauber, Teresa Hedrick, Mike Havens and Caroline Moledor – all uplifted by Mill Mountain Theatre’s resident Music Director, Seth Davis.

Returning to the Trinkle MainStage as featured vocalists throughout the performance are Matthew Carter, Sarah Coleman, Larry Kufel and Josh Polk. MMT has also enlisted top regional youth talent from local high schools, Elise LeGault and Ben Armstrong. Making her Trinkle MainStage debut is Francesca Reilly, a member of MMT’s education department. In addition to Reilly, Both Kufel and Polk are administrative staff members at Mill Mountain Theatre.

The creative team consists of Seth Davis (Music Director), Ginger Poole (Producing Artistic Director and Staging Director), Savannah Woodruff (Lighting and Sound Designer) and Matt Shields (Director of Production).

The “Best of Broadway” begins performances on April 28th and runs through April 29th on the Trinkle MainStage. Individual, season tickets and group tickets can be purchased online at millmountain.org or by calling the box office at 540-342-5740.

Sponsors and grantors for the “Best of Broadway” include Adobe Creative Express, Roanoke Valley Orthodontics, Skyline National Bank, Center in the Square, Actors’ Equity Association, Theatre Communications Group, National Endowment for the Arts and Virginia Commission for the Arts.

A Tribute to Broadway: The Best of Broadway, a Concert

Fans from The Golden Age of Broadway to the contemporary age get ready to sing with Mill Mountain Theatre at the “Best of Broadway” concert.

The hit concert series, Mill Mountain Music returns to the Trinkle MainStage with the “Best of Broadway” an ode to some of Broadway’s biggest fan favorites on April 28th and April 29th. Mill Mountain Theatre has brought in elite vocalists from the Roanoke region and seasoned performers from around the country.

For three shows only, experience music handpicked from MMT’s resident maestro, Seth Davis, including music from shows such as “Wicked,” “Les Misérables,” “My Fair Lady,” “Rent,” “West Side Story,” “Music Man,” “South Pacific,” “A Little Night Music” and more!

The creative team consists of Seth Davis (Music Director), Ginger Poole (Staging Director), Savannah Woodruff (Lighting and Sound Designer) and Matt Shields (Director of Production).

5 Reasons to See Jersey Boys at Mill Mountain Theatre

Get ready to be transported back to the era of rock and roll with the electrifying musical “Jersey Boys” at Mill Mountain Theatre! With limited shows available, here are 5 reasons why you don’t want to miss out on this unforgettable experience.

Experience the music: Enjoy the timeless hits of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, performed live in the intimate setting of Mill Mountain Theatre.

Amazing performances: See the talented cast of Jersey Boys bring the story of the Four Seasons to life with incredible acting, singing, and dancing.

Riveting story: Follow the captivating journey of four blue-collar kids from New Jersey who rose to become one of the biggest sensations in music history.

Award-winning production: Jersey Boys has won multiple Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and has been enjoyed by audiences all over the world.

Limited run: Don’t miss your chance to see this must-see musical event, as Jersey Boys is only playing for a limited time at Mill Mountain Theatre. Buy your tickets now before they’re gone!

Get Tickets Now

Mill Mountain Theatre Presents “Jersey Boys”

“Jersey Boys,” the Broadway jukebox musical sensation is coming to the Trinkle MainStage this Spring.

“Our audiences have been begging us to produce Jersey Boys here at Mill Mountain Theatre.” Said Ginger Poole, Producing Artistic Director of MMT. “After a five-year wait on the show rights waiting list, we are proud to be one of the first regional theatres to produce this show in the country.”

With phenomenal music, memorable characters, and great storytelling, “Jersey Boys” follows the fascinating evolution of four blue-collar kids who became one of the greatest successes in pop-music history. Winner of Best Musical at both the Tony Awards® and Olivier Awards®, “Jersey Boys” takes you behind the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons to discover the secret of a 40-year friendship as the foursome work their way from the streets of New Jersey to the heights of stardom. Thrill your audiences with electrifying performances of chart-topping hits including “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” “Dawn,” and “My Eyes Adored You,” which brought The Four Seasons the highest honor: induction into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame.

“Jersey Boys” Kicks off the Trinkle MainStage series at Mill Mountain Theatre as a part of the theatre’s 2023 Season of Song.

“Jersey Boys” will be directed by Kristen Brooks Sandler, who recently directed “Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn” and “Legally Blonde” at Mill Mountain Theatre.

“Jersey Boys” begins performances on March 15th and runs through April 8th on the Trinkle MainStage. Individual, season tickets and group tickets can be purchased online at millmountain.org or by calling the box office at 540-342-5740.

Sponsors and grantors for “Jersey Boys” include Adobe Creative Cloud Express, Avis Construction Company, B.J. Preas, Brandon Oaks Retirement Community, Buff City Soap, Business Solutions Inc., Claytor/Wirt Associates, The Candy Store, Davidsons Clothing for Men, Entré Computer Center, Harry W. “Skip” Hamilton III at Davenport & Company, Lichtenstein Law Group, Pinnacle Financial Partners, Skyline National Bank, Sun Tan City, Truist, Radio IQ/WVTF, Zen Business, Virginia Commission for the Arts, National Endowment for the Arts, Center in the Square, Theatre Communications Group, Actors’ Equity Association and Blue Star Theatres.

JERSEY BOYS The Story of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons Book by Marshall Brickman & Rick Elice Music by Bob Gaudio Lyrics by Bob Crewe “Original Broadway Stage Production by Dodger Theatricals (Michael David, Edward Strong, Rocco Landesman, Des McAnuff); Joseph J. Grano; Tamara and Kevin Kinsella; Pelican Group in association with Latitude Link Rick Steiner/Osher/Staton/Bell/Mayerson Group World Premiere Produced by La Jolla Playhouse, La Jolla, CA Des McAnuff, Artistic Director & Steven B. Libman, Managing Director”

Mill Mountain Theatre Presents Elf the Musical

Something big, green and hilarious is coming to the Trinkle MainStage at Mill Mountain Theatre during the winter of 2023.

Here to bring the Christmas spirit next holiday season is Buddy the Elf in “Elf the Musical.” This modern-day classic film from 2003, starring Will Ferrell, is just as memorable and fun onstage.

“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 cause him to face 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 remember the true meaning of Christmas.

“We were so excited to get the call, confirming our eligibility to produce Elf the Musical.” Said Ginger Poole, Producing Artistic Director. “This heartwarming and family-centric musical will be a great way to dive into the 2023 holiday season and is the perfect finale to our Season of Song.”

“Elf the Musical” opens November 29th, 2023 and runs through December 23rd on the Trinkle MainStage. The acclaimed musical will feature local youth performers and professional performers.

Tickets to “Elf The Musical” are available for immediate purchase through either a 2023 Season Ticket Package or individually. Tickets can be purchased online at millmountain.org or by calling the box office at 540-342-5740.

Mill Mountain Theatre announced its 2023 season, The Season of Song on October 6th, 2022. Absent from the October 6th presentation was the unnamed Holiday Show due to contract negotiations with the rights distributors.

Mill Mountain Theatre has served as Roanoke’s link 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!

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

The Show Will go on “Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn”

“Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn” is re-opening at Mill Mountain Theatre after one week of cancellations due to a COVID-19 outbreak among the cast and key creative members.

Performances resume starting with the 7:30 p.m. show on December 21st and the show runs through December 23rd on the Trinkle MainStage.

MMT has been working closely with industry-leading COVID-19 researchers and doctors from the theatre’s board of directors throughout the show’s run. The theatre continued to actively monitor outbreaks through daily testing.

For the remainder of the run, Mill Mountain Theatre encourages its audience to wear masks to the performances. MMT will provide masks upon entry to patrons in need.

Mill Mountain Theatre’s primary objective is to safely entertain you. Since the 2020 shutdown, Mill Mountain Theatre has made significant strides within the theatre industry to ensure performer, creative team and audience safety. In three years, this is Mill Mountain Theatre’s first outbreak. The theatre has upgraded ventilation systems in our theatre and artist housing. We also routinely clean the theatre before each performance with recommended COVID-19 cleaning practices.

Mill Mountain theatre had previously canceled performances from December 14th through the 2 p.m. matinee on December 21st.

For previously affected patrons, Mill Mountain Theatre is offering three options to our audience members. We will offer the flexibility to transfer your tickets to another performance of possible upcoming “Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn” performances, transfer your tickets to any MainStage show in 2023, give your tickets as a tax-deductible donation to Mill Mountain Theatre; or in exchange for a full refund. Please contact the box office at 540.342.5740 or at boxoffice@nullcenterinthesquare.org and our team will be happy to assist you.

December 21st Matinee Canceled of “Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn”

Mill Mountain Theatre has canceled the December 21st, 2 p.m. matinee of “Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn.” At this time, no decisions have been made about the 7:30 p.m. performance on the 21st.

The cast and creative team will use this time to regroup and rehearse after a week of shutdowns due to COVID-19 infections. The cast and creative team are eager to salvage the remaining performances, if possible. As those infected have recovered, we as a team are cautious about pushing performers beyond their limits – we want to guarantee everyone returns safely, to put on the best performance possible.

We appreciate our audience’s willingness and grace to work with us as we navigate through the impact of these cancellations. Mill Mountain Theatre is working rapidly to keep our audiences updated.

Mill Mountain Theatre is offering three options to our affected audience members. We will offer the flexibility to transfer your tickets to another performance of possible upcoming “Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn” performances, transfer your tickets to any MainStage show in 2023, give your tickets as a tax-deductible donation to Mill Mountain Theatre; or in exchange for a full refund. Please contact the box office at 540.342.5740 or at boxoffice@nullcenterinthesquare.org and our team will be happy to assist you.

MMT appreciates your cooperation and apologizes for the inconvenience. We are working to make this an easy and safe transition for our cast, creative team, and audiences.

Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn Cancellations Extended

Performances from December 14th through the 18th have been canceled.

With continued cases among the cast and key members of the production for “Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn,” Mill Mountain Theatre has extended the show’s cancellations from December 14th through December 18th.

Mill Mountain Theatre is offering three options to our affected audience members. We will offer the flexibility to transfer your tickets to another performance of possible upcoming “Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn” performances, transfer your tickets to any MainStage show in 2023, give your tickets as a tax-deductible donation to Mill Mountain Theatre or in exchange for a full refund. Please contact the box office at 540.342.5740 or at boxoffice@nullcenterinthesquare.org and our team will be happy to assist you.

MMT appreciates your cooperation and apologizes for the inconvenience. We are working to make this an easy and safe transition for our cast, creative team, and audiences.

If any future cancellations occur, we will promptly update our audience members through our box office, social media, MMT’s website and through email. Mill Mountain Theatre appreciates your patience as we monitor this dynamic situation. We hope to see you at the theatre again soon.

December 14th, 15th and 16th Performances Canceled | Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn at MMT

Mill Mountain Theatre has decided to cancel the December 14th, 15th and 16th performances of “Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn” due to a limited COVID-19 outbreak among the cast and crew.

Our decision to cancel the December 14th, 15th and 16th performances was made in consultation with our healthcare advisors for the safety of our cast, crew and you, our audience members. From weekly, routine testing among our cast and crew, we were able to rapidly quarantine positive performers and creatives. We will continue to test the entire company to ensure that this is a limited outbreak and to prevent further spread.

We appreciate our audience’s willingness and grace to work with us as we navigate through the impact of these cancellations.

Mill Mountain Theatre is offering three options to our audience members. We will offer the flexibility to transfer your tickets to another performance of possible upcoming “Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn” performances, transfer your tickets to any MainStage show in 2023, give your tickets as a tax-deductible donation to Mill Mountain Theatre or exchange for a full refund. Please contact the box office at 540.342.5740 or at boxoffice@nullcenterinthesquare.org and our team will be happy to assist you.

Mill Mountain Theatre has navigated through COVID-19 for the past three years, with this being the first outbreak among its cast and crew. Throughout the pandemic, MMT has actively worked with industry-leading COVID-19 researchers and medical professionals on the theatre’s board and at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion in an effort to minimize the risk of exposure and comply with CDC guidelines. This same team will continue to help navigate MMT through the current risks.

We appreciate your cooperation and apologize for the inconvenience. We are working to make this an easy and safe transition for our cast, creative team, and audiences.

For more information on MMT’s COVID-19 practices, click here.

The Cast of Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn at Mill Mountain Theatre

This holiday season, make a beautiful memory and embrace the holiday season with “Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn.”

Performers from all over the country have traveled to Roanoke to perform at Mill Mountain Theatre as they get ready to perform in the stage adaptation of the hit 1942 film of the same name. Seasoned fans of “Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn” and newcomers, will love the stage version even more! Bundle up with your closest friends and family with this holiday classic. Experience the warming thrill of Irving Berlin’s classic songs such as “White Christmas,” “Steppin’ Out With My Baby,” “Blue Skies” and more!

This timeless comedy features thrilling tap dances, joyous music and more. This story follows Jim who ditches the bright lights of show business to settle down in a small Connecticut farmhouse. His world takes a spectacular turn when he meets a talented teacher named Linda. Will Jim salvage his last chance at love?

Returning to the Director and Choreographer’s chair is Kristen Brooks Sandler, who previously directed “Legally Blonde the Musical” at Mill Mountain Theatre.

“Holiday Inn is a classic show filled with joy. I’m excited to share that joy to Roanoke audiences!” Said Sandler.

Filling out the stage to tell the story is Mychal Phillips* as Louise, Andrew Mauney* as Jim, Imani Youngblood* and Sarah Colt will both take on the role of Linda, Caitlin McAvoy as Lila, Elbi Cespedes as Ted. Two local youth performers will share the role of Charlie Winslow. In addition to the featured characters, Erin Kei*, Yul Carrion, Emma Lou DeLaney, Morgana Mauney, Corry J. Ethridge, Maya Kitayama, Melissa Perry and Angela Joy (Swing) fill out the mighty ensemble.

Uplifting the cast is a stellar creative team – which serves as a collaborative effort from Mill Mountain Theatre’s seasoned; internal creative team and industry professionals. The team consists of Ginger Poole, Producing Artistic Director; Peppy Biddy*, Production Stage Manager; Erin Markham*, Assistant Stage Manager; Christopher D. Littlefield, Music Director; Marissa Danielle Duricko, Costume Designer; Jimmy Ray Ward, Scenic Designer; Bill Webb, Lighting Designer; and Matt Shields, Director of Production.

Holiday Inn will also feature a live orchestra directed by Littlefield. The orchestra will feature Roanoke residents, JT Fauber, Mike Havens, Evin Bowman and Teresa Hedrick.

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

Holiday Inn begins performances on November 30th and runs through December 23rd on the Trinkle MainStage. Tickets can be purchased online at millmountain.org or by calling the box office at 540-342-5740.

Sponsors for Holiday Inn at Mill Mountain Theatre include Avis Construction Company, Better Sofas, B.J. Preas, Brandon Oaks Retirement Community, Business Solutions Inc., Carolina Connection, Claytor/Wirt Associates, Elk Hill Advisors, Entré Computer Center, Freedom First Credit Union, Frith Anderson and Peake, Gentry Locke Attorneys, Howell’s Motor Freight Inc., Jewell Machinery, John H. and Michelle S. Higginbotham Family Foundation, The Liberty Trust Hotel, Lunsford a Trustpoint Company, MarshMcLennan Agency, Mast General Store, Member One Federal Credit Union, Miller Long & Associates, Oakey’s Funeral Service and Crematory, Pinnacle Financial Partners, Skyline Capital Strategies, Roanoke Animal Hospital, Roanoke Gas Co., Roanoke Valley Orthodontics, Skyline National Bank, Spilman Thomas & Battle, Steel Dynamics Inc. and The Candy Store. Grantors include National Endowment for the Arts, Virginia Commission for the Arts, Center in the Square, Radio IQ WVTF, Theatre Communications Group, Actors’ Equity Association and Blue Star Theatres.

“Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn” is presented by special arrangement with Samuel French Inc., a Concord Theatricals Company.

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