Deerfield Performers Troupe

Deerfield Performers Troupe (also known as “DPT”) is an advanced musical theatre program run by Sarah Hall Theatre Company. In this troupe, dedicated musical theatre students (6th-8th grade) explore the wonderful world of theatre as they navigate their way through a unique production. This advanced musical theatre class focuses on performance, ensemble, teamwork, dramaturgy, and the purpose of performing. Acceptance is by audition only. Students get the opportunity to perform onstage and at local senior centers. Performances for the upcoming fall season are pending future facility availability.

The troupe was conceptualized in 2017 by Deerfield native, Stefanie Guggenheim, the director and choreographer of DPT. She grew up performing in various Deerfield children’s theatre programs and wanted to share her love of the craft with the next generation. When asked about her goals for the troupe, Guggenheim explained, “I wanted DPT to be so much more than an acting class. I wanted to create an environment where middle school-aged students could practice performance while also taking risks, growing skills, finding acceptance among peers, and expanding their musical theatre repertoires.”

An intergenerational love for theatrical arts is highly valued within Sarah Hall Theatre Company, which offers older adult acting classes at several local senior living facilities. DPT tours with their show each session to these facilities and shares their performances with an unforgettable audience every time. The experience makes an impact on performers and audience members alike!

DPT students are very passionate about performing, and many graduates move on to participate in their high school theatre programs. Marisa Bernstein, an eighth grade DPT member from Deerfield explains, “I auditioned for DPT because I always had an interest in theatre, but I wanted something that would challenge me and help me improve overall. DPT was definitely the right decision. DPT has not only made me a better actress, but it has introduced me to many friendships throughout the years. It has also really changed me as a performer because of the amazing directors.”

DPT is open to Deerfield residents and residents of surrounding communities. Thomas Grant, a seventh grade DPT member from Highland Park reflected, “I joined DPT in the 4th grade. I didn’t think very much of it at the time, but after just one week I saw how dedicated everyone was and I haven’t done any other group since. DPT has influenced me to be more comfortable on stage and off. 6-8th graders should join DPT to be pushed to their limits, put on shows in a professional space to grow as actors, and have fun doing what they love.”

Deerfield Performers troupe is assistant directed by Al Katz-Mariani and music directed by Sarah Glieberman, another Deerfield Native. Katz-Mariani has been with the program since fall of 2017 and explains, “DPT is unique because it calls on young performers to be dedicated to learning, passionate about theater, and committed to building something great together. These kids build awesome relationships with one other and make something they can be proud of.” Glieberman, who joined the team in spring of 2019 describes the troupe as, “...a positive, supportive, and welcoming environment in which to grow as an actor, dancer, singer, and critical thinker! I love working with each student and watching them discover themselves and others.”

In light of the quarantine, Deerfield Performers Troupe is hosting auditions online for its 2020-2021 season. Incoming 6th-8th grade students can submit an audition online by May 31st at 8:00pm to be considered for acceptance into next year’s troupe. Interested participants can access audition information by visiting bit.ly/dpteaudition2020 or contacting info@sarahhalltheatre.com.

The 2020-2021 Deerfield Performers Troupe will present Newsies Jr. (rights pending) in the fall and Matilda Jr. (rights pending) in the spring. All performances are pending future facility availability.