Spotlight on the Artist: Bea and Baker

How did you get started in theatre?

Bea: The first show I ever saw was Annie at the Norshor Theatre back in 2021, so this is a very full circle moment for me. I fell in love with theatre from the moment I saw the show and it inspired me to start auditioning!

Baker: I was 3 years old when I saw my first Duluth Playhouse youth play - The Little Mermaid. I started taking classes at age 5 and was cast in my first youth production, Singing the Rain Jr. when I was 8.

What’s your favorite part about being onstage?

Bea: My favorite part about being onstage is the rush of joy I feel at the end of a show. I love getting to share stories with audiences and I hope to inspire other people to perform!

Baker: My favorite part about being on stage is the creativity I get to use and collaboration with others. I love putting a smile on the faces of audience members. The adrenaline and nervous energy makes me excited and I love the feeling of performing.

What skills from your time in the Playhouse’s Youth Theatre and education program have helped you in this role?

Bea: The Playhouse has taught me to put myself out there and try new things which has helped me immensely in this role because using a puppet is something I’ve never tried before.

Baker: All of the singing, acting and dancing skills I’ve learned through the Playhouse have helped my confidence and prepared me for this role.

What’s been your favorite role or production so far and why?

Bea: My favorite role has been Alice in Alice By Heart because it stretched me  as a performer. I got to explore this character very deeply and felt that I could relate to her in many ways.

Baker: My favorite role was Jack in Into the Woods. During that process I learned so much from the people around me and had a blast bringing the show to life. The opportunity pushed me to be a better performer and I loved the challenge.

What is it like to share the role of Olaf? What have you learned from working with your fellow Olaf actor?

Bea: I’ve loved getting to share the role of Olaf with Baker because there are differences in our performances which means we can learn from each other. I feel like there are things that I’ve taken away from watching Baker perform that I never would have thought to incorporate before.

Baker: Working with Bea has been a blast. Not only do we get to support each other and build each other up, we also learn a lot from each other. I have learned not to doubt myself and have fun with the part. It’s nice to have a friend to collaborate with.

What do you hope audiences take away from Frozen?

Bea: I hope audiences get to experience the magic that Frozen is! We’ve all worked so hard to bring this show to life and I hope it shows in our performances. Frozen is full of love and laughter and I can’t wait for audiences to see this show!

Baker: I hope that audience members of all ages are inspired by this production and leave with a smile. I hope they feel uplifted and see the message of love this show beautifully depicts.