Kansas State University

K-State School of Music, Theatre and Dance presents interactive, immersive musical

Submitted by K-State Theatre

The K-State School of Music, Theatre and Dance continues its performances of the musical "A Year with Frog and Toad" Nov. 1-3 in Chapman Theatre at Nichols Hall.

"A Year with Frog and Toad" is based on the beloved children's book series and was commissioned by writer Arnold Lobel's daughter, Adrianne a scenic designer who also designed the original Broadway sets. 

Associate Theatre Professor Jerry Jay Cranford as director/choreographer has added a participation element for all ages.

"As a father of two, I've realized just how important it is to engage the playfulness and creative spirit of a child in ways disassociated from electronic devices," Cranford said. "This has informed our approach to this musical in breaking down the fourth wall to perform to you, with you and not at you." 

Play kits are available with a stuffed toy frog or toad, fall leaves, a pinwheel flower and snow allowing the audience to join the changing seasons of the show. There are also times when the audience can dance with the performers and join them on the stage for a spooky story.

The show premiered at the Children's Theatre Company in Minneapolis in 2002, transferred off-Broadway, and then opened on Broadway in 2003 garnering three Tony Award nominations for Best Musical, Best Book and Best Score. The show has become a hit staple of regional theatres with its infectious score and charming script by the brothers, Willie and Robert Reale.

With costumes and sound designed by K-State students Gabby Reid, Hutchinson, and Elizabeth Smith, Manhattan, respectively, it is a wonderful showcase of student work both on and off the stage. Also working to run the production are students McKenna Moten, assistant director, Topeka; Mackenzie Brown, production stage manager, Springdale, Arkansas; and Ari Hornbeck, Manhattan, and Isys Haynes, Olathe, assistant stage managers. Faculty and guest artist on the show are Heather McCornack, music director; AnnDee Alvidrez, scenic/props designer; James K. Davis, lighting designer; and Aaron A. Mayer, guest technical director.

The cast features the following students: 

• As frog: Randall Marcum, Olathe; Miguel Cornwell, understudy, Leawood. 
• As toad: Zac Mead, Topeka; Aiden Ferguson, understudy, Shawnee. 
• As bird/father frog/mole 1: Grant Kozisek, Leawood. 
• As bird 1/young frog/mole 2: Belle Chavey, Concordia; Lexi Tyler, understudy, Abilene. 
• As bird 2, mother frog, mole 3: Madeline VandeRiet, Manhattan; Lexi Tyler, understudy. 
• As snail/large and terrible frog: Alexa Beaulieu, Wahiawa, Hawaii; Reagan Coon, understudy, Leavenworth. 
• As turtle/squirrel: Josey Bartlett, Tonganoxie; Veah Castillo, understudy, Valley Center. 
• As mouse/squirrel: Ashlyn Wills, Berryton; Ayana Jones, understudy, Manhattan. 
• As lizard/squirrel: Jacob Rogers, Frederick, Maryland, dance captain.

For further information and tickets, visit the website.