The University of Minnesota Morris theatre discipline will burst into spring with its 49th annual children’s show, Junie B. Jones is Not A Crook.
The play is an adaptation of Barbara Park’s beloved children’s book series and follows the energetic and outspoken Junie B. Jones as she faces a playground mystery that puts her strong sense of right and wrong to the test. When Junie B.'s beloved furry mittens go missing, she’s convinced they’ve been stolen. But when she stumbles upon a cool new pen that no one seems to claim, she begins to wonder …does finding something lost make it yours? With her signature humor, larger-than-life personality, and cast of fantastic friends, Junie B. navigates the ups and downs of friendship, honesty, and what it really means to do the right thing.
Directing the production for his senior capstone project is theatre arts major Michael Oberton (he/him), ’25 Little Falls, with support from his adviser, Theatre Arts Professor Ray Schultz.
“The stories of Junie B. Jones have delighted children for many years now, and they were a cherished part of my own childhood. I’ve always loved how the characters approach life’s little dramas with such hilarious seriousness! It is so true to how we all experience the world at that age. I can't wait to bring this wacky, endearing, and imaginative story to the stage for children, families, and audiences of all ages!”
Faculty and students alike are bringing their diverse skills and talents to the design of this production. As part of his senior project, student Jack Strong (he/him) ‘25, Minneapolis, is assisting with scenic design, led by Theatre Arts Associate Professor Lucas Granholm (he/him). Costume design is headed by Assistant Professor Emma Arends Montes (she/her) with student Clara Dubuc (she/her) ‘26, St. Paul, serving as assistant costume designer. Students are also leading the production’s lighting and sound design, with Mikayli Marciulionis ‘26, Esko, as lighting designer and Kieda Wagner ‘25, Parkers Prairie, as sound designer. The production’s stage management is led by Parker Stach (he/him) ‘27, Hoffman, aiding the production and the cast of eight actors.
In the leading role, Savana Hauck (she/they) ‘28, Minneapolis, stars as the titular Junie B. Jones, with Olivia Emmrich (she/her) ‘28, Rogers, and Siri Koplin (she/her) ‘27, Rochester, in the roles of her two “bestest friends” Lucile and Grace respectively. Matthew Gearou (he/him) ‘25, Minnetrista, takes on the role of Jim, with Caspian Brack (he/him) ‘28, St. Cloud, acting as Ricardo, and Moon Rose Johnston (they/them) ‘28, Pipestone, playing Handsome Warren. The cast is rounded out by Katelyn Holstad (she/her) ‘25, Waite Park, portraying Mrs. and Mother, and Asa Dockter (he/him) ‘28, Grand Rapids, in the roles of Principal and Grandpa Frank Miller.
This production of Junie B. Jones is Not a Crook is currently accepting reservations for invited school performances from April 9 to 16. Public performances will take place in the Raymond J. Lammers Proscenium Theatre on April 11 at 7:30 p.m. and April 12 at 2 p.m. Tickets are available online and at the door. General Admission is $10 and students and seniors are $5 with advance purchase tickets. At the door, general admission is $11 and students and seniors is $6. Please direct any questions, or accommodations requests, to [email protected] or call 320-589-6077.
For more information on invited performance showtimes, bookings, or accessibility accommodations, contact [email protected].