Upcoming
January 2027
The Viterbo University Fine Arts Center has hosted the Missoula Children's Theatre (MCT) for more than 20 years and interest in the program keeps growing.
MCT is the nation's largest touring children's theatre, touring extensively for more than 40 years, performing all over the world. Students in grades 1–12 are welcome to audition for MCT’s production of Rapunzel. To meet the age requirement, students must be entering the 1st grade this fall for the 2026–27 school year.
Auditions:
Monday, Jan. 11, 2027, at 4 p.m. sharp.
Registration/Check–In: 3:30–4 p.m.
Registration form must be completed before the auditions start. We encourage preregistration.
Auditions will be from 4-6 p.m. with cast list announced at 6:0 p.m. First rehearsals will continue from 6-8:15 pm on Monday, Jan. 11.
Rehearsals:
Monday, Jan. 11 to Friday, Jan. 15, 2027, from 4-8:15 p.m. with a 15-meal break from 6:00-6:15 p.m. nightly.
Please bring a packed meal and water bottle to each evening rehearsal.
Performances:
Saturday, Jan. 16, 2027, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Auditions, rehearsals, and performances will be held at the Weber Center for the Performing Arts in downtown La Crosse. Directions and Parking
Show Synopsis–Repunzel
Missoula Children's Theatre (MCT) will present Rapunzel, an original adaptation of the classic fairy tale. Would it surprise you to know that the story of Rapunzel happened in France?
Well, it didn’t really, but our story takes you on a frivolous frolic through the French countryside. The Ogres’ garden in the Mushroom patch while the Corn and Potato spies report back to Madame Gothel. Frenchy and his intense friends, the Wood Elves, do their best to help Rapunzel escape the grasp of Madame Gothel. The lost Prince, Rapunzel’s parents, and her friends the Unicorns try to help.
Just when you think it’s safe to cross the bridge, a Troll and Three Billy Goats Gruff get in the way. Add to that the Gremlins trying to play tricks on everyone, and you have chaos! Well, it’s not that bad because the Pixies foil the Gremlins’ plans most of the time. In short, Rapunzel and all the rest of the characters tell a silly tale of personal triumph and friendship.
Audition Information
Students in grades 1–12 can audition. No advance preparation is necessary. Ages 10 and older will also be considered for assistant director position for the production during auditions.
Monday, Jan. 11, 2027
4–6 p.m.
Weber Center for the Performing Arts
428 Front Street
La Crosse, WI 54601
Please arrive by 3:30 p.m. to allow for registration/check-in. Students should plan to stay for the entire session (4-6 p.m.). Students who have been cast will also stay from 6:15-8:15 p.m. for start of rehearsal. There will be a 15-minute break in between. Bring your own snack or dinner.
Approximately 50-60 local children will be cast to appear in the show with the MCT Tour Actor/Directors. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee that everyone who auditions will be cast in the play. There is no charge for participation in this MCT residency.
To speed up the check-in process and help save paper, we ask that you fill out the registration form in advance (the red button above). However, registration forms will be available at auditions.
Rehearsal Schedule
Most students will rehearse approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes each day, Monday through Friday at the Weber Center for the Performing Arts. Rehearsal times will be 4-6 p.m. and 6:15-8:15 p.m. with a 15-minute break in between. Bring your own snack/dinner and water bottle.
Although not all cast members will be needed at every rehearsal session, those auditioning must have a clear schedule for the entire week and be able to attend all rehearsals for their role.
Rehearsals are open to parents and teachers who are not disruptive, but it is also fun for students to surprise them at the performance at the end of the week.
If you or your parents have questions about Missoula Children’s Theatre’s La Crosse residency, please contact us at rafrisby@viterbo.edu or 608-796-3735.
Performance Information
Saturday, January 16, 2027
11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Weber Center for the Performing Arts
Call time for performers TBA.
Tickets on sale beginning in Dec. 2026, sold both online and by phone or in person at the Viterbo University Fine Arts Center Box Office.