What Being a Nun Means to Me

As a life-long stage actress, people often ask me, “What’s your favorite musical?” My response? Nunsense. “What show do you want to perform again?” Any guesses? Nunsense. The answer is always, Nunsense. 

As any fellow thespian can attest, sometimes shows just stick with us even after the final curtain call. I’ve had several such experiences throughout my 22 years on stage, however, Nunsense is one that outshines all the rest.

Thirteen years ago I had the privilege of being cast in a community theater performance of Nunsense the Mega Musical. I played Sister Amnesia, a nun, aptly named, who lost her memory. I learned my lines and dance steps, which ironically meant purposefully forgetting, and all too soon the show came to an end. But while my character had forgotten who she was, I knew I would certainly never forget her. Or that musical. 

Hard at work rehearsing Nunsense

Therefore, it should come as no surprise that when I was presented with the opportunity to reprise my role as Sister Amnesia for Decatur Underground Theater’s production of Nunsense the Mega Musical, I couldn’t refuse. 

So, what makes it my favorite? 

Well, because Nunsense is habit forming…Let me tell you why!

For those unfamiliar with this show, it follows a group of nuns who’ve had a grisly tragedy strike their New Jersey convent and must now host a variety act in order to raise money. Sounds like a great time, right? Although the show’s premise may seem counterintuitive for comedy gold, that’s why it’s so entertaining.

The writing is phenomenal. Nunsense busts through the metaphorical fourth wall, an uncommon practice, creating an addictive atmosphere for both audience and actor alike. You'll laugh harder than you have in years and will want to run back to the box office just to experience the rush of delight again. No, really! Dave Goggin infused the pages of Nunsense with his comedic genius. This timeless, dependable comedy brings people of all beliefs to the same conclusion; it’s hilarious.  Audiences need not be Catholic nor religious to enjoy this story or laugh at the jokes and charming characters. 

Having fun at the table read

Speaking of characters, these ladies (and a few gents) were written to leap off the stage and into hearts. These aren’t stereotypical nuns. These nuns are fun and perhaps a bit risque!

The score is creative and filled with nuances from popular culture. Throughout its two acts, you will hear allusions to some of your favorite Broadway tunes, a strong salute to the Andrew sisters, and a dose of country western.

The joy I’ve found bringing these Little Sisters of Hoboken to life is unmatched. And it may never be. I know you’ll enjoy it just as much as I have. From the catchy songs and spirited dancing to phenomenal talent both on and off the stage, you have a recipe for success. 

Get your tickets, bring your friends, and prepare to laugh! DUT’s show runs April 5th, 6th, 7th, 12th, 13th, and 14th at the Decatur Civic Center located in Decatur, IL. 

Buy Tickets Here: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/72940371/dut-presents-nunsense-decatur-decatur-civic-center-

The passion we have for theater...

My name is Timber Ziegler and I’m playing Fakir in Decatur Underground Theater's production of The Secret Garden The Musical. This show is absolutely beautiful, and I can guarantee there won’t be a dry eye in the house- not even on the stage. Come see for yourself the last two weeks of March 2023.

I’m no stranger to the Decatur Underground Theater stage.

The Secret Garden is my ninth musical theater production with DUT!

I was just sixteen when I was welcomed into the company to be a part of The Marvelous Wonderettes. I was asked to play the sweet, funny, sort of dumb, and hugely pregnant character. I’ll be honest this was the biggest role I had ever played at that point, and I certainly had never played anything like this, so I was a little nervous. But I set my mind to doing my best and had a wonderful group of people cheering me on. Those silly, funny roles are some of my absolute favorites to play now!

That’s what I love about theatre and about this company. There is always support, love, laughter, and fun that come with a DUT show.

Outside of Decatur Underground, I’m a student at Richland Community College, and I do theatre and dance pretty much anywhere you’ll let me. It’s so wonderful that we have communities like Decatur Underground in Decatur so that we can share the passion we have for theatre!

Plus, you're likely to meet new people who, by the end of a show, become some of your closest friends!

I’m proud to add The Secret Garden The Musical to my resume, and I’m thrilled to share this story with audiences here in Decatur. It's a story of hope and redemption and happy endings based on the 1911 novel The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. The music is gorgeous, and we have a cast that truly delivers in both their acting and vocal performances.

Don’t miss out on this one!!

Timber Ziegler, Cast Member: The Secret Garden - Fakir

DUT is Decatur's Premier Musical Theater Company, bringing Awesome Musical Theater to Decatur, IL Since 2010.

Musicals through the camera viewfinder...

By: Ryan Rinchiuso - Major Holmes | The Secret Garden

A famous quote from photographer Graciela Iturbide says, “In the end, photography for me is just an excuse to get to know the world.” I agree with this quote and think of it a lot when I am taking both photos and videos. When you hit the record or shoot button you capture a moment that will never be seen again.

In The Secret Garden The Musical, I play Major Holmes. During rehearsals, I am concerned about what I am supposed to be doing now and in the future. I am listening for my cue or getting in to position to come on stage that I don’t have much time to focus on the world around me.

In my work life, I am a teacher at Heartland Technical Academy, and I teach juniors and seniors business practices and branding using digital tools. One of the big aspects of the class is how to make a documentary to advertise a company/brand. This semester one of those videos is about Decatur Underground Theater ( DUT ) and the behind the scenes journey of putting on The Secret Garden.

Two of the students in the class have taken the reins of this video and they are doing a wonderful job making short videos showcasing multiple people and facets of the production. When I am helping edit the rough cuts with them, my eyes are opened to so much of what is going on during the run-up to the show that I don’t see, and it is amazing! To see the making of this show laid out and captured when no one is worrying about the camera and doing their best to make the show a huge success is exciting to watch.

The video footage depicts the choreographer in the background learning his lines but also sneaking a look at the blocking to make sure no one needs his help. The videos capture the director smiling because he can’t help but be excited when a person nails the delivery of a line. The documentary shows cast members with tears in their eyes when they first hear other members of the cast sing their solos/duets beautifully. It captures the beauty and magic of community theater at its finest - displayed most fully in musicals.

Decatur Underground Theater is a community onto itself, and putting on a musical like The Secret Garden takes the *whole* community. Being able to understand what a massive undertaking this is has been a humbling experience for the class and me.

The directors, cast and crew are putting in countless hours to give Decatur, Illinois, a show that will not be forgotten.

It is so easy to worry about just your part and not to look at the whole story, and I am glad that I got this chance to look through that viewfinder on the camera and expose me to the whole creation of The Secret Garden. Trust me and the camera when I say... you don’t want to miss this show.

See The Secret Garden The Musical, brought to the Decatur community by Decatur Underground Theater, at the Decatur Civic Center on March 24-26 and March 31-April 2, and follow us on Facebook to see some of the videos.

Ryan Rinchiuso, Cast Member: The Secret Garden - Major Holmes