The Missoula Children's Theatre (MCT) production of Hansel and Gretel took the stage at Chinook High School's Lloyd Sweet Auditorium on Saturday, February 5. Two performances of the show featured the talent of various area youth. The lead roles were enacted by Tyrell Small, who played Hansel, and Bailey Billmayer, who acted as Gretel. Lily Gregori performed as the witch, while Kamry Gustitis portrayed Granny.
In other roles, Bella Brown, Lexi Gallus, Rachel Bilger, Chyler Standiford, Amanda Finley, and Wrigley Dinehart represented the Cooks.
Old Campers were played by Lillianna Firingstoney, Jace Bemis, Adele Hofman, and Bentlie Dennis; while New Campers were represented by Rian Molyneaux, Taylyn Collins, Maysen Olson, and Wacee Simenson.
Five youth reenacted the lives of Rascals: Pepper Harwood, Brooklyn Sohn, Calvin Brown, Cassidy Liddle, and Harper Matkin. Another six took on the roles of Wallybirds: Natalie Hofeldt, Parker Paulsen, Harper Jones, Sylvi Harwood, Chloe Beck, and Chloe Sohn.
The MCT Tour Team, Anna Luczynski and Maggie Connick expressed pleasure at having worked with the area youth. The duo agreed that the rehearsals went well and the performance was entertaining. Luczynski not only served as the production's on-stage director but also played the role of Aunt Wally Wallybird. Meanwhile, Connick functioned as the backstage director, helping to ensure everyone stayed in costume and didn't miss any of their cues.
Chinook students, Nathan Small and Lori Mord served as Assistant Directors. The pair assisted during rehearsals and on production day, managing the younger actors and actresses and providing local knowledge.