WAYZATA — Blue Water Theatre Company invites the community to step under the big top as Water for Elephants arrives on stage December 11–21, 2025. Adapted from Sara Gruen’s celebrated novel, the production promises a sweeping, imaginative journey brought to life through inventive stagecraft and expressive puppetry — a hallmark of the company’s commitment to youth artistry.
Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, Water for Elephants follows Jacob Jankowski, a young man who discovers unexpected belonging among the performers, workers, and animals of a struggling traveling circus. Blue Water’s production leans into the story’s blend of wonder and grit, using puppetry and physical theatre to evoke the emotional heart of the novel.
“This production showcases the incredible artistry and heart of our youth performers,” said Eddie Paul, Artistic Director of the show. “Youth actors are learning puppetry, stilt walking, and acrobatics.”
Performances will be held at Blue Water Theatre Company, located at 605 Rice Street East in Wayzata, with showtimes running December 11 through December 21, 2025. Tickets are $22 for adults and $20 for youth and seniors. Capacity is limited in Blue Water’s intimate theatre space, and early reservations are encouraged.
Blue Water Theatre Company is dedicated to elevating youth through theatre education and performance. Through collaboration, creativity, and community engagement, Blue Water empowers young artists to grow as performers and leaders while enriching the cultural life of Wayzata and the Lake Minnetonka area.
Blue Water Theatre Company is currently undertaking its Raise the Roof campaign, a community-driven effort to fund essential building repairs and long-term facility improvements to its home on Rice Street. The campaign supports critical updates to the century-old church-turned-theatre — including roof replacement, structural maintenance, and preservation work — ensuring the space remains safe, vibrant, and accessible for the hundreds of young performers who rehearse and create there each year. Through donations from families, alumni, and supporters of youth arts, Blue Water aims to secure a lasting foundation for future generations of Wayzata-area theatre students.
Blue Water Theatre Company has launched a $500,000 capital campaign to stabilize operations, repair its 109-year-old former church building on Rice Street, and preserve a youth-led arts community that serves families throughout the west metro.
Board Chair Janessa Prawer said the campaign, called Raise the Roof, is intended to give the organization enough runway to complete a financial turnaround already underway. “We have a rockstar board and a plan,” she said, “but what we need now is time and we may not have that.”
A Historic Building With Mounting Costs
Blue Water’s home is itself a piece of Wayzata history. The building originally served as the Wayzata Congregational Church, a congregation established in 1881 as one of the earliest anchors of community life on the north shore of Lake Minnetonka. The church’s 1911 structure—designed by noted Minneapolis architect Harry Wild Jones—stood on this site until a fire destroyed it in 1916. Remarkably, the congregation rebuilt the sanctuary the very same year, continuing its role as the cornerstone of religious life in early Wayzata. Today, the building is recognized as a Wayzata Historic Landmark, one of the few remaining examples of the town’s early civic and architectural heritage.
Blue Water Theater
That legacy is one reason the theatre has remained committed to the space since purchasing it from the congregation, but caring for a century-old landmark comes with real challenges. Prawer noted that “this building costs us $6,000 a month just to operate and maintain,” citing water issues, deferred exterior work, and aging systems now undergoing review through a donor-funded facilities assessment.
A severe storm last summer caused water to bubble up through the basement floor, one of several spots in the building where moisture has become an ongoing concern. “When it rained, it bubbled up on the ground. I was like, oh God,” Prawer recalled. Insurance disputes left the nonprofit responsible for tens of thousands of dollars in interior repairs, and early assessments suggest the underlying issues extend outside the building as well — likely involving grading, drainage, and gutter work that must be addressed before the interior can be fully restored.
Alongside the physical concerns, Blue Water carries a mortgage, a federal EIDL loan taken during the pandemic, and a second mortgage used to survive a year without summer programming.
A Distinctive Youth-Led Model
Despite the challenges, artistic director Eddie Paul says the educational mission has never been stronger. Paul joined Blue Water with more than two decades of experience in professional theatre and youth-program development, backed by a B.A. in Acting & Directing from DePaul University and an M.A. in Education from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, where he earned his K–12 theatre teaching license.
Paul’s background in both performance and classroom instruction has shaped an approach where students take on meaningful artistic and technical responsibilities. “We’re not looking for perfection,” he said, explaining that many students who feel overlooked in school theatre find opportunities at Blue Water “to grow and learn.”
Upcoming productions reflect that ethos in vivid, hands-on ways. For Water for Elephants, students aren’t just rehearsing lines—they’re building giant puppets from scratch, strapping on stilts, and learning the physical language of circus performers. Paul laughed as he described the transformation: “We’ve got some kids on stilts… we were walking in about an hour.”
Paul emphasized the collaborative spirit of the program. “It’s very much youth-led theater,” he said. “Everything they do it and they do it as a team.”
Prawer believes that sense of belonging is central to Blue Water’s value: “This place is a place where they can leave their school drama issues and whatever behind and come here and be in a place that’s fully accepting and welcoming everybody.”
A Rebuilt Board and a New Strategy
Prawer joined the board during a difficult period marked by rising liabilities, leadership turnover, and slowed donations. Her background in healthcare operations and process improvement led to immediate structural changes: ticket prices were adjusted, tuition and cast sizes recalibrated, new education pathways created, and staffing restructured to reduce overhead.
Ares of the building need to be fixed.
The board, now composed of professionals in finance, law, higher education, and performing arts, has shifted toward a more sustainable budgeting approach. Early numbers suggest improvement—but not fast enough without a capital cushion.
Why the Campaign Matters
The Raise the Roof campaign aims to pay down debt, tackle essential repairs, and give the theatre a full season of breathing room under its new operating model. And there’s promising momentum: a potential major donor has already expressed interest in contributing, pending the results of a full building audit, a step intended to confirm the long-term viability of the historic space.
Prawer says losing the building would undermine the entire program. “If we don’t have the building, then that communal space where they gather, I think we could fall apart,” she said. The unique, youth-led model relies heavily on consistent access to rehearsal rooms, workshops, storage, and the theatre’s intimate performance space.
“It’s unusual and special, and it’s worth saving,” she said.
How to Support the Campaign
Community members, alumni families, and local arts supporters can learn more or make contributions at:
As Wayzata continues to evolve, Blue Water’s leadership hopes Raise the Roof will preserve both a historic building and the creative community that has taken shape inside it.
The Blue Water Theatre Company is turning to the community and city leaders for support as it seeks to add its building at 605 Rice Street East to the National Register of Historic Places.
The youth performing arts nonprofit has called the former Wayzata Congregational Church home since 2017. The property’s history stretches back nearly a century and a half:
1881 – The vacant lot was sold to the Congregational Church.
1882 – The first frame structure was erected on the site.
1911 – The building was renovated and substantially expanded by renowned Minnesota architect Harry Wild Jones.
February 26, 1916 – The renovated church was destroyed in a fire.
September 10, 1916 – The church was rebuilt to Jones’s 1911 plan and rededicated.
This summer, heavy rains caused significant water damage to the building, leaving Blue Water with steep repair costs. “As a result, we have been forced to consider all options—including the heartbreaking possibility of selling the building,” wrote Janessa Prawer, a board member and marketing chair, in a letter to the Wayzata City Council. “The building represents far more than bricks and mortar—it is a home for creativity, growth, and belonging”.
City staff and the Heritage Preservation Board (HPB) have been engaged since July to explore how local designation and potential placement on the National Register could open doors to grants and preservation funding. At its September 23 meeting, the City Council considered authorizing the HPB to work with Blue Water Theatre on the application process, a step required by ordinance before any outreach to the state or federal level can begin.
For Blue Water’s 300 annual participants and the 8,000 patrons who attend performances, the building has become a cultural cornerstone. The theatre’s leaders hope historic designation will safeguard both the structure’s legacy and the opportunities it creates for young people on stage and behind the curtain.
WAYZATA — The Wayzata Musicales concert series will cap off its season in high-energy fashion with Brad Olson’s One Man Band on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. The performance will be held at the Blue Water Theatre Company and promises to be an entertaining finale that ushers in the summer season with style.
A Twin Cities native with over four decades of professional experience, Brad Olson brings his unmatched talent as a vocalist and multi-instrumentalist to this 75-minute, no-intermission show. His dynamic performance spans genres and decades, featuring everything from rock and blues to swing and pop. Olson has performed across the U.S., including venues in Las Vegas and state fairs, and has opened for legends like Three Dog Night, Blood, Sweat & Tears, and The Temptations.
Local audiences may recognize Olson from his roles in The Whitesidewalls, Rockin’ Hollywoods, Hitz, and Bob and the Beachcombers. He’s also known for conducting and playing lead trumpet in the beloved “Wastebasket Revue” benefit concerts.
Wayzata Musicales continues its mission of community connection through music, celebrating local artistry while supporting the next generation. The series is sponsored by the Woody Budnick–Chip Williams Fund, which provides scholarships to Wayzata High School band students, and is produced in partnership with Blue Water Theatre Company. Major funding for this concert is also provided by the Plymouth Arts Council.
In a town that loves its music, few things are as exciting as a night of live jazz, and this April, Wayzata Musicales is set to deliver a performance sure to have toes tapping and hearts soaring. The Gypsy Mania Quartet, a renowned Twin Cities-based ensemble, will take the stage at Blue Water Theatre on Saturday, April 5, for an evening of high-energy, improvisational swing jazz in the Django Reinhardt tradition.
Gypsy Mania, known for its signature blend of Roma-inspired melodies and American swing, has been captivating audiences for over 16 years. The quartet boasts an all-star lineup: jazz violinist Gary Schulte, world guitarist Glen Helgeson, jazz bassist Steve Pikal, and drummer Jay Epstein, each bringing a lifetime of musical expertise to the stage. Their ability to blend virtuosity with spontaneity ensures that no two performances are ever quite the same.
“Gypsy Mania Hot Club Quartet is the best in local jazz music! They had our audience totally engaged. The musicianship of this group is amazing,” states Sandy Nadeau, Executive Director of the St. Cloud Symphony Orchestra.
Organized by Chip Williams, a longtime advocate for fine arts education, Wayzata Musicales was launched to bring professional musicians to the west metro while supporting young artists. The concert series benefits the Blue Water Theatre Company, a local youth theatre group, as well as the Budnick-Williams Fund, which provides scholarships for Wayzata High School students pursuing music studies.
“When I dreamed up the idea of this concert series,” says Chip Williams, “I really had two primary goals. First, I thought the Wayzata and west metro area would enjoy hearing terrific Twin Cities artists. Second, as a former band director in the Wayzata Schools, I wanted to support young people involved in the Fine Arts,” states Williams.
For those unfamiliar with Gypsy Jazz, think Paris in the 1930s, where Reinhardt and violinist Stéphane Grappelli pioneered a new kind of swing, blending the music of Roma culture with traditional jazz. That same spirit lives on in the Gypsy Mania Quartet, whose lively, intricate performances have earned rave reviews across Minnesota.
The event begins at 7:00 p.m., and with no intermission, the 75-minute set promises to be an uninterrupted journey through one of jazz’s most dynamic and evocative styles. Tickets are available now through the Blue Water Theatre website, with pricing set at $26 for adults, $21 for seniors, and $16 for students.
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Whether you’re a longtime jazz aficionado or just looking for a unique night out in Wayzata, this is one show you won’t want to miss. As Williams puts it, “We’re bringing world-class music to our backyard. Come out and enjoy it.”
The beloved Wayzata Musicales series continues its tradition of showcasing exceptional talent with an upcoming performance by the renowned Copper Street Brass. Mark your calendars for this unforgettable evening of music, taking place on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at Wayzata High School in Plymouth.
Copper Street Brass, Minnesota’s premier brass chamber ensemble, brings a unique and captivating blend of musical styles to every performance. From classical pieces by Mozart to contemporary hits by Madonna, their dynamic repertoire appeals to a broad audience. Founded in 2008, the ensemble has received critical acclaim for their artistry, described by reviewers as “flawless,” “polished,” and “somewhere between magnificent and exquisite.”
Highlighting their artistic achievements, Copper Street Brass was named a finalist for the prestigious McKnight Artist Fellowship. The ensemble’s members boast impressive individual credentials, having performed with renowned groups such as the Minnesota Orchestra, the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, and the Minnesota Opera. Their versatility extends beyond classical music, as they have collaborated with jazz and blues icons like Davina and the Vagabonds, Prince, and Grammy-winner Big Walter Smith.
Adding a local touch to the evening, the concert will open with a short performance by Wayzata High School’s own Jazz Ensemble Blue, showcasing the school’s talented young musicians.
This special event is made possible through the generous support of the Woody Budnick-Chip Williams Fund, the Blue Water Theatre Company, and major funding from the Wayzata High School Band Class of 1971.
Don’t miss this chance to experience an evening of extraordinary music that promises to be both inspiring and entertaining. Reserve your tickets now and join the Wayzata community in celebrating the power of live performance.
The beloved Wayzata Musicales concert series is back, bringing world-class performances to the heart of Wayzata. After a highly successful inaugural season, the Woody Budnick-Chip Williams Fund and Blue Water Theatre Company have teamed up once again to deliver unforgettable musical evenings to the west metro.
Kicking off Season 2 on Saturday, November 9, at 7:00 p.m., is a performance by the renowned vocalist Erin Livingston. Known for her versatility in jazz, blues, and country music, Livingston is a familiar face at premier venues like Crooners and the Dakota. Her recent tribute to Helen Reddy wowed audiences across the Twin Cities.
With a ten-piece band behind her, Livingston has earned accolades not just for her stage presence but also for her work with senior centers and veterans’ homes. For her Wayzata debut, she’ll deliver timeless classics from the Great American Songbook—promising, in her own words, “songs with a twist… of lime!”
Submitted photo.
Joining her on stage will be pianist Dale Alexander and bassist Gary Raynor. Livingston is excited to support the Wayzata Musicales’ mission, saying, “I was inspired by the junior high and high school music programs that fed my love of music. I’m thrilled to give back.”
A Concert Venue Like No Other
The intimate setting of the Blue Water Theatre ensures a unique experience for concertgoers. Last year’s attendees couldn’t stop raving about it. Leigh Kallestad, a local resident, described the venue’s cozy ambiance and praised the acoustics, saying, “The connection between the performers and the audience was incredible—you could feel every emotion.”
Music with a Purpose
Proceeds from the concert series support both the Blue Water Theatre Company and the Budnick-Williams Fund, which aim to inspire and educate young musicians. Chip Williams, one of the series’ founders and a former Wayzata Schools band director, emphasized the dual mission: “We want to bring top-tier artists to the Wayzata community, while also nurturing the next generation of musicians.”
More Concerts on the Horizon
Following Livingston’s performance, the season continues with three more exceptional concerts. On February 1, 2025, Copper Street Brass will dazzle with arrangements spanning from Mozart to Madonna at Wayzata High School. Then, on April 5, 2025, Gypsy Mania “Hot Jazz” Quartet will bring their lively sound to Blue Water Theatre. The season wraps up on May 31, 2025, with Brad Olson’s One Man Band—a high-energy show you won’t want to miss.
Tickets for the event are available through the Blue Water Theatre Company’s website. Given the venue’s limited seating, early booking is recommended. For more information, visit www.bluewatertheatre.com or call 952-855-9147.
Get ready for another season of outstanding music, right in your own backyard!
After the success of its debut season, Wayzata Musicales is back for another round of headline performances, bringing top-tier musicians to the heart of the west metro.
Sponsored by the Woody Budnick-Chip Williams Fund in partnership with Blue Water Theatre Company, Season 2 of Wayzata Musicales promises a series of can’t-miss concerts.
The season kicks off on Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024, with vocalist Erin Livingston making her Wayzata Musicales debut. Known for her soulful voice, Livingston will perform a unique twist on classics from the Great American Songbook, accompanied by pianist Dale Alexander and bassist Gary Raynor.
In February, the award-winning Copper Street Brass will take the stage with a diverse program featuring their original arrangements spanning from Mozart to Madonna. Their concert on Feb. 1, 2025, at Wayzata High School, is expected to be a standout performance.
On April 5, 2025, the talented Gypsy Mania “Hot Jazz” Quartet will bring their French jazz flair to Blue Water Theatre. With over 16 years of experience, their high-energy performances have been known to keep audiences on their feet.
The season wraps up on May 31, 2025, with the one-man musical phenomenon Brad Olson. Olson, a multi-instrumentalist with over 40 years in the industry, will showcase his talents in a high-energy, dynamic show.
“When I dreamed up the idea of this concert series, I had two primary goals,” said Chip Williams, one of the series’ founders and a former band director in the Wayzata Schools. “First, I thought the Wayzata and west metro area would enjoy hearing some of the terrific artists the greater Twin Cities has to offer. Second, I wanted to support young people who want to be active in the Fine Arts.”
Proceeds from the concert series benefit both the Blue Water Theatre Company and the Woody Budnick-Chip Williams Fund, with the goal of inspiring and supporting the next generation of young artists.
Tickets for all Wayzata Musicales concerts are available through the Blue Water Theatre Company website. All concerts, except for Copper Street Brass, will take place at the Blue Water Theatre in Wayzata. Seating is limited, so attendees are encouraged to buy tickets early.
Concert Lineup:
Erin Livingston – Nov. 9, 2024
Copper Street Brass – Feb. 1, 2025 (Wayzata High School)
Gypsy Mania “Hot Jazz” Quartet – April 5, 2025
Brad Olson’s One Man Band – May 31, 2025
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Blue Water Theatre Company website or call 952-855-9147.
A new play, A House Divided, co-written and directed by Phi Hamens Nelson and Carmen Chávez, will premiere at Blue Water Theatre Company over Labor Day weekend.
Nelson and Chávez spent five years developing the play.
Performances are scheduled for August 30, 31, September 1, 6, 7, and 8 at 7 p.m.
An opening night post-show Q&A with the cast will be held after the August 30 performance.
Matinee shows will also take place on September 1 and September 8 at 12 p.m., followed by Q&As.
The play, which follows the story of Sharon Anderson and her journey into the complexities of her husband Andrew’s estranged family, delves into themes of familial conflict and emotional scars that may never heal.
As tensions rise, Sharon must navigate the growing animosity within the Anderson family, with the hope of overcoming it or succumbing to her darker impulses.
The cast includes Alyssa Rae, Christopher Roddy, Carmen Christine Chávez, and Phi Hamens Nelson, along with Orvie Baker Jr. and Nancy Phinney.
Content Warning:Content Warning: The play contains strong language and discusses abuse.
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