Commonweal Theatre to produce special winter cabaret production

LANESBORO, MN — Following a season of change and overcoming challenges in the face of COVID-19 precautions in 2020, the Commonweal Theatre in historic Lanesboro is pleased to announce a very special virtual production for the winter of 2021 entitled “Stela’s Clear Blue Morning.” After a year of turbulence and fatigue, the lights are back on at the Commonweal beginning January 15, 2021. Join Commonweal professional resident ensemble member Stela Burdt as she headlines a virtual cabaret celebrating life, love and family featuring hits from musical theatre, country and pop. Longtime Commonweal director Alan Bailey, who left audiences humming with favorites like “Souvenir” and “Sanders Family Christmas,” collaborates with Ms. Burdt and the Commonweal resident ensemble to bring you a musical journey that reflects on what we’ve lost and looks forward to what’s ahead.

“As Stela sings and talks to the viewers,” says director Alan Bailey, “she’s speaking to people, and is surrounded by people who know her specific challenges of the last few years. She doesn’t need to state those challenges directly but simply realizes that these viewers know and care. These people have been there for her, and she has openly expressed her gratitude. Stela’s message,” Bailey continues, “is a continuation of her message of gratitude. She and the whole Commonweal company are letting viewers know they recognize that being connected to them even from a distance is vitally important.”

In 2018, Burdt’s husband and Commonweal professional resident ensemble member Scott Dixon passed away following a battle with cancer. All proceeds from ticket sales of the cabaret will go to The Scott Dixon Memorial Fund.

The cabaret will officially open on the Commonweal website on January 15, which is Scott Dixon’s birthday, and will feature 11 songs performed by Burdt and select members of the Commonweal ensemble. Three of the musical numbers include the entire Commonweal company of artists serving as accompanying singers with Ms. Burdt. For more information and to purchase your “virtual ticket” for this very special performance, please visit the Commonweal online at www.CommonwealTheatre.org.