If you are in the mood for something completely different from the regular theater scene in Southern Utah, you simply must check out LIGHTHOUSE: a new musical at Center for the Arts at Kayenta. While the minimalist stage–with its music stands and chairs–may suggest a simple staged reading, audiences will be blown away by the emotive singing performances and dynamic characterization. Set in a frigid Minnesotan February, this is your chance to truly escape the blistering heat and experience something new!
The show centers on the story of recent high school graduate Bus, who is desperate to escape the tiny Minnesota town, her strained relationships with her family, and her personal identity struggles. Breaking the fourth wall throughout the production, Bus takes the audience along with her as she learns about herself, her loved ones, and navigates the twists and turns of facing brutal truths.
The music is exquisite. Director Lisa Quoresimo doubles as the live pianist (and percussionist) and accompanies the actors. Since the music drives the show, it is Quoresimo’s flawless accompaniment that is the engine. The intricate and layered harmonies in the opening number “Lighthouse” will transport audiences to an icy winter day where “cold” isn’t just describing the weather, but also the painful isolation each character silently struggles with, trying to carry on for “one day more.”
live at the piano during the production. Photo by Alan Holben, provided by Center for the Arts at Kayenta
Frankie Garrard plays quick-talking Bus: colorful and comical, they perfectly execute this fresh young voice, winning over hearts in the audience all along the way. When actors are performing readings, often there is not much of a set or visual activity for audiences. However, with this show, Garrard and the other characters aren’t just “reading” but are fully engaged in bringing these characters to life with expression and movement. The timing and chemistry between Bus and her mother, Cheesecurd (Heather Oram), in the song “See Yourself” is a standout moment, masterfully timed and emotionally resonant! Oram gives voice to a kind of parental frustration people are afraid to show and her performance is brave, nuanced, and unforgettable. This show felt like so much more than a reading due to how these actors bring the characters to life.
The evolving relationship between Bus’s sister Church (Norah Steverson) and best friend Hotdish (Ivy Robbins) takes Bus by surprise as secrets begin to surface. Robbins melts hearts in “The Way She Sees Me,” perfectly capturing the thrill and passion of young love. Robbins’ portrayal of Hotdish starts out so meek and agreeable, but her song reveals surprising vocal power and emotional depth. As more truths about Church unravel, Steverson’s devastating solo “Runaway Girl” is a vulnerable moment. Through these revelations, Bus understands she’s not alone in her search for identity and meaning.
Characters Snow (Kendra Munger) and 10,000 Lakes (Gina Torecilla) round out the cast and serve as grounding influences amid Bus’s emotional storm. Bus’ physician and neighbor, Snow, offers rare calm and Munger’s rendition of “The Snow and the Fire” is a tender and comforting ballad that attempts to steady Bus’ turbulent emotions. Bus’s grandmother, 10,000 Lakes, is one of the only characters who believes Bus and supports her in her quest for truth. Torecilla’s song “The Storm Always Comes” reminds Bus the importance of authenticity and encourages Bus to access her personal lighthouse and continue to stand strong. Lighting Designer Austin Burns enhances this moment with a stunning lighthouse effect, and his use of color throughout the show underscores emotional shifts with subtle brilliance.
*The Actor appears through the courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. Photo by Alan Holben, provided by Center for the Arts at Kayenta.
Lighthouse: a new musical is a bold, intimate production that proves you don’t need elaborate sets or flashy costumes to tell a powerful story. With its hauntingly beautiful music, deeply human characters, and standout performances, this show shines a light on the quiet struggles we often keep hidden—and the strength it takes to face them. It’s a rare theatrical experience: emotionally raw, musically rich, and refreshingly original. If you’re looking for something thought-provoking, heartfelt, and wholly unique, Lighthouse is a beacon worth following.
What made this experience so unique and special to me was getting to meet the creators. Veronica Mansour and abs wilson were at the show, and I got to speak with them afterwards. It isn’t very often that audiences get to meet the playwright or composer of the show they just watched. Getting to meet them and talk with them about their work was a special treat. In a day and age when so much threatens the arts, it was just refreshing to see the talents of the next generation of playwrights and composers. I highly recommend audiences visit their website and social media to learn more about them and their accomplishments with this show. Special thanks to Center for the Arts at Kayenta for spotlighting this new musical and giving Southern Utah a rare chance to experience original, visionary work firsthand.
Center for the Arts at Kayenta presents LIGHTHOUSE: a new musical, music and story by Veronica Mansour, book and lyrics and story by abs wilson
The Lorraine Boccardo Theater, 881 Coyote Gulch Cir, Ivins, UT 84738
June 19-21, 26-28 at 7:30 PM, June 21 and 28 at 2 PM
Tickets: $10-35
Contact: (435) 674-2787