Chanhassen Dinner Theatres

Summary

This video captures the journey of Laura Wilhelm, the props master at Chanhassen Dinner Theater, as she reflects on her 11 seasons at the theater. She shares her family's history with the theater, from its founding in 1968 to the present day, and the evolving nature of dinner theater. The video highlights the collaborative process of creating a new show, from rehearsal to opening night. It also touches on the personal connections among the cast and crew, emphasizing the theater's familial atmosphere and its deep impact on audiences, demonstrating the transformative power of musical theater.

Takeaways

• 😀 Laura Wilhelm has been the props master at Chanhassen Dinner Theater for 11 seasons and started as a child actor at the age of 9.
• 😀 The Chanhassen Dinner Theater opened in 1968, and Laura recalls walking through the under-construction building with her father at the time.
• 😀 The dinner theater industry was much larger in the 1950s, but now only about 10 dinner theaters remain across the United States.
• 😀 Chanhassen Dinner Theater is a family business that sold its operation in 1989, but the Wilhelm family has remained deeply connected to it.
• 😀 Laura's creative collaboration with Michael Brindisi, the artistic director, helped save the theater when it was for sale, and they now manage its day-to-day operations.
• 😀 When selecting a play, the focus is on picking a production that the audience wants to see while ensuring the play conveys an important message.
• 😀 The first day of rehearsal is described as 'special' and full of energy, with a lot of excitement about creating a new theater piece.
• 😀 Rehearsals are fast-paced and intense, with the creative team working together from the design phase to getting actors on their feet for the first time.
• 😀 The atmosphere at Chanhassen Dinner Theater is described as 'familial,' with many long-term staff members, and a deep sense of trust between everyone involved.
• 😀 For the 50th anniversary season, the theater is performing the musical 'Holiday Inn,' which features nearly 200 costumes, highlighting the theater's commitment to creating everything in-house.
• 😀 Michael Brindisi is praised for his humanity and ability to guide actors through their performances while allowing them to express their intuition.
• 😀 Laura Wilhelm reflects on the 50th anniversary milestone of the theater, mentioning her father's thoughts about the theater's legacy and its potential to be added to the National Register of Historic Places.
• 😀 The theater's impact on people's lives is emphasized, with a memorable story of an audience member who was inspired to reconnect with his ex-wife after seeing a show.

Q & A

What role did Laura Wilhelm initially have at Chanhassen Dinner Theater?

Laura Wilhelm started as a draper on 'Fiddler on the Roof,' which was her first show, and that was three Fiddlers ago.

How did Laura Wilhelm's connection to Chanhassen Dinner Theater begin?

Laura's connection to the theater began when she was a child actor at the age of nine. She has now worked there for 11 seasons.

What is the significance of the 50th anniversary for the theater?

The 50th anniversary marks a major milestone for the theater, and for the celebration, they are performing the Irving Berlin musical 'Holiday Inn.'

What is the relationship between the Wilhelm family and the theater?

The Wilhelm family founded the theater, and although they sold the operation in 1989, they have stayed connected to the theater over the years, with many long-time staff members still present.

What is the biggest challenge when selecting a play for the theater?

The biggest challenge is ensuring that the play resonates with the audience. The goal is to choose a play that the audience will want to see, and that has an important message.

How does the first day of rehearsal feel at Chanhassen Dinner Theater?

The first day of rehearsal is described as a special moment, often referred to as the 'first day of school,' full of excitement and energy, with returning members and new creations underway.

What makes Michael Brindisi a good director according to the team?

Michael Brindisi is considered a fantastic director because of his humanity in the work. He allows actors to use their intuition and skills while also offering guidance when needed.

How does Tamara (Tam) approach choreography for the theater productions?

Tam approaches choreography from a storytelling perspective, ensuring that the dance serves the narrative of the show and allows the actors' talents to shine.

What does Laura Wilhelm mean when she says 'working at Chanhassen is like coming home'?

Laura refers to the long-standing relationships and trust between the people at Chanhassen Dinner Theater, where many have worked together for years, creating a familial and supportive atmosphere.

How does Laura Wilhelm feel about opening night?

For Laura, opening night is not scary but sad, as it marks her transition out of direct involvement with the show. However, she still watches the performances and remains connected with the cast and crew.