MCT presents Johnny Appleseed

On November 22 tour actor Samantha Cage playing Gramma treated audience members to a delightful tale to her kiddos about Johnny Appleseed and his pioneer friends as they planted apple orchards across the West. This classic tale had more than one surprising twist as Johnny tried to find his best friend and along the way sowed kindness that touched everyone he met.

With the help of Kathy Bjornestad as accompanist, even the audience were part of the action, singing a response at the close of the performance.

Playing the title character of Johnny was Faith Honey Anderson as Young Johnny and Azreal Maddox as Old Johnny. Other featured performers included Ella Bifulco as Molly, Wudzie Zaato as Kelly, MacKenna Olson as Sarah and Josey Julian as Rebecca.

Gramma’s Kiddos were Ashlynn Pedersen, Cason Robinson, Corbin Crowder, Eva Stark, Isaac Love, Karen Ulmer, Rose Weaver and Shelby Treadway. Sir Peter Prescott was Deklan Gill while the Rupert was Annie Harmon.

Lewis and Clark were Kinsley Steeves and Lydia Castelli. The Wolf played by Branson Bankenbush along with the buffalo (Bison) Jade Weaver were the animals that Johnny meets along his journey.

And finally, the Apple Seeds: Alexa Hutchinson, Bayla Gross, Cot Bankenbush, Griffin Gill, Jane Stark, Kyndall Sproul, Liam Bifulco, Reagen Sproul and Ty Hutchinson.

This was the 27th production Missoula Children’s Theatre has brought to Sundance since 1985. The week-long residency is coordinated by Zeta Nuckolls Anderson. For more information on how to help with future productions please call 756-2141.