Minden Opera House Brings the fun this spring and summer

(Minden, Nebraska) The Let's Go Science Show is an engaging theatrical, science-based production coming to the Minden Opera House on Friday, May 1 at 7:00 pm. The show, featuring characters Professor Smart and Dr. Knowitall, teaches physics concepts through hands-on experiments, illusions, and demonstrations, covering topics like states of matter, air pressure, and energy. While it may not seem to be the typical kind of show you would find in a venue like the Minden Opera House, Director Marcy Brandt says, “Our Board of Directors is focused on providing a wide range of experiences for our patrons – even some of our youngest ones.” She continues, “Performances like ‘Let’s Go Science Show’ truly showcase how the arts and sciences can go hand in hand -- and still be fun!”

Professor Smart and Dr. Knowitall will be performing for East Elementary students in the afternoon, then will do a public performance that evening at 7:00 pm. Tickets will be $18 for adults and just $7 for students.

Professor Smart is performed by Todd Victor: physical comedian and juggler with Jest In Time Circus. He has performed in 14 different countries and continues to perform at schools, fairs and festivals throughout the United States. His fascination with how things work and his love of comedy helps get kids excited about the sciences.

Todd grew up in a family of ten on a farm in Connecticut. He left to study Fine Arts in New York City. He has been studying and performing mime, juggling, and physical comedy since 1980. He graduated with a Bachelor of Fun Arts from Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Clown College. Todd is a chosen member of Marin’s Youth ‘n Arts, Performing Arts Roster. He has been an artist/teacher for the William James Prison Arts Project. Todd loves performing, teaching, computers, inventing, juggling, tennis, table tennis, creating one of a kind props for fun-filled shows, and he loves his wife, Lizette.

Dr. Knowitall is played by Lizette Guy. Lizette started performing at the age of 6 in a Hollywood movie, “So This Is Paris,” It was not until she discovered clowning that she found a place to play out her dramatic intensity.

When Lizette is not performing or creating material for shows she is a teacher, a former psychotherapist and creative play facilitator. “My inspiration comes in the midst of collaborating with others in the spirit of play.” She teaches clown character development for adults and facilitates laughter workshops. Lizette has had to give up her private psychotherapy practice because of a thriving performing career as a comic entertainer.

The Minden Opera House will also be welcoming the Missoula Children’s Theatre and their production of THE EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES June 22 through June27. Approximately 50-60 roles are available for local students entering 1st through 12th grades with auditions taking place on Monday, June 22 at 10:00 am. No advance preparation is necessary. Most students rehearse approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes each day, Monday through Friday. Performances are scheduled for June 26 at 6:30 pm and June 27 at 1:30 pm. Tickets for Adults are $7.00 and children ages 5-13 are just $5.00. Missoula Children’s theatre is sponsored in part by the Amick/Youngson Foundation, Nathan Raun Children's Theatre Fund, and the Minden Community Players.

Originally constructed in 1891, the Opera House building housed businesses on its first floor until the Kearney County Community Foundation acquired the building and began its renovation in 1997. Opting for a complete overhaul, the Foundation undertook a complete renovation, introducing a stunning stairway, Gift Shop, Art Gallery, and meeting rooms. The grand opening of the renovated Minden Opera House took place over Memorial Day weekend in 2000, celebrating its return to being a vibrant hub for the arts and events in South Central Nebraska.

The Nebraska Arts Council, a state agency, has supported this season through its matching grants program funded by the Nebraska Legislature, the National Endowment for the Arts and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment. Visit www.artscouncilnebraska.org for information on how the Nebraska Arts Council can assist your organization, or how you can support the Nebraska Cultural Endowment.