ACT Backstage

Past ACT Musical Productions

1982 Fantastics
This first musical production was produced and directed by Fred Lewis. The delightful show centered around the joys and tribulations that two fathers (portrayed by J.R. Walker and Erik Eriksen) share in the rearing of their offspring.

1984 The Sound of Music
This classic production was directed by Fred Lewis. Erik Eriksen starred as Baron VonTrapp. Jessica Keenan made her ACT debut at the ripe old age of 6 years old.

1985 Oklahoma
The wild west came to life on the Ankeny stage in this exciting musical directed by Randy Ratcliff. Paul Ruby charmed the ladies in the role of the handsome and romantic Curly. Terri Synders played the main object of his affections, Laurie. Also featured were John Cooking, Karen Swift, Al Price, Kay Meyers and Arlan Beemer.

1986 Guys and Dolls
Pure fun abounded in this Damon Runyon saga directed by Jo Reid. Greg Leavengood, Holly Godbar, Paul Ruby, Lisa Stuart, Erik Eriksen, Jean Ginger and a super cast of gamblers, strippers, Salvation Army workers and Latin dancers all starred.

1988 Carousel
Rogers and Hammerstein musicals are always great audience favorites and ACT gave the audiences what they wanted in the beautiful and touching "Carousel." The show feature Greg Leavengood, Lisa Stuart, Scott Faulkner, Kris Harrigan, Joyce Lundstrum, and Paul Ruby. The production was directed by John Thompson.

1989 A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum
This star studded show was presented as a musical dinner theatre. Greg Leavengood handled the directing duties and Grace Leverenz served as the producer. Just a few of the tremendously funny performers were J.R. Walker, Scott Faulkner, Steve Stone, Dale Hunter and Darel Hildreth in his debut role for ACT.

1990 Annie Get Your Gun
The wild west was the theme for this block busting musical which was also directed/produced by the team of Reid/Leverenz. Kris Harrigan was the definitive Annie Oakley; Scott Faulkner was the dashing Frank Butler; Alan Parker and Beck Long stopped the show as Charlie Parker and Dolly. Bud Pratt was Buffalo Bill personified and Darel Hildreth gave one of his most memorable performances as Sitting Bull.

1992 Wizard of Oz
This production was directed by Jo Reid and produced by Grace Leverenz. It featured a cast of 80 ranging in age from 3 years old to 65. Ankeny showcased its answer to Judy Garland in our own Jessica Keenan as Dorothy. Also starring were Al Price (the Scarecrow), Dave Michaels (the Cowardly Lion), Steve Betz (the Tin Woodsman), Deb Hidder (the Wicked Witch of the West), Kris Harrigan (Glinda, the good witch of the North) and Darel Hildreth as the Wizard.

1993 Reunion Revue
Nostalgic production showcasing highlights from past ACT musicals. Many former stars reprised their original roles. Coordinated by Jo Reid, Grace Leverenz and J.R. Walker.