GALLERY: ‘Cheeseheads’ is ‘cheesy’ fun

Posted 9/17/25

SPRING VALLEY – If you’re a proud Wisconsinite, or even a wannabe (ahem, Minnesotans), there’s nothing more Sconnie than Spring Valley Stagehands’ rendition of …

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GALLERY: ‘Cheeseheads’ is ‘cheesy’ fun

Posted

SPRING VALLEY – If you’re a proud Wisconsinite, or even a wannabe (ahem, Minnesotans), there’s nothing more Sconnie than Spring Valley Stagehands’ rendition of “Cheeseheads, The Musical.”

Directed by Lori Peterson, many local businesses and individuals contributed donations, both monetary and in-kind, to make the show happen. The Stagehands are celebrating their 40th anniversary as a community theatre group this year.

The musical follows the takeover of family-owned Schnaybel’s Cheese in Sheboygan by the unfeeling corporate giant, Conglomerated Cheese. The employees, who are “cheeseheads” through and through, struggle to keep Schnaybel’s family atmosphere afloat amidst corporate greed and demands, all while juggling love lives, grief and facing the unknown. As corporate executive Melanie Charles tries to save the beloved factory from closing, she melts into the lives of her fellow employees, becoming a Cheesehead herself.

With just the right amount of clever humor, nostalgic Wisconsin lore and a talented cast of singers who harmonize perfectly, this show is beyond “gouda.” The cast is relatable, likeable and easy to cheer for, reminding us of our own friends and neighbors. Kudos to Director Peterson and her cast for another remarkable theatre experience.

Patrons can purchase tickets for two remaining shows: 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19 and 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20 at the Stagehands historic theatre (S234 McKay Ave.) or online at svstagehands.org

Cast (separate box)

Dan – Jon Tanberg

Bobby – Matt Summers

Natalie – Isabel Vance

Gizmo – Riley Hackbarth

Doc – Scott Thayer

Doc – Ann Siegel

Thursday – Wade Gardner

Melanie – Ione Hayes

Crew (separate box)

Director – Lori Peterson

Pit band – Ann Turner (piano), Jan Wood (drums), Isaac Nellessen (bass, guitar)

Choreography – Saskia Nichols

Set construction – Lori & Rob Peterson

Scenery artist – Jae Anderson

Light & sound booth – Gary Lukes, Julie Stoddard, Isabelle Peterson, Lori Peterson

Lighting design/props – Matt Summers

House management – Cindy Jensen

Promotion – Ann Turner, Kyndra Gagne

Backstage management/props: Dee Roesler

Spring Valley Stagehands, Cheeseheads the Musical, comedy, theatre, Wisconsin