Debuting Artist: Marissa Dienstag

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Brys Scotland
Posted by Brys Scotland
May 31, 2023

Actor, choreographer, stage manager, and director, Marissa Dienstag, makes her OpenStage on-stage debut as Black Dog in "Treasure Island"

Tell us about yourself! What theatre or other experiences did you have in this discipline before working on this show?

Prior to moving to Colorado I was involved with Misfits Theatre, Athenian Berean Community Players, Ohio Valley Summer Theater, and Genesis Theatre Project where I acted, choreographed, stage managed, directed, and assisted in over a dozen shows. Most recently, I also served as the AD/SM for FCCT’s Elf the Musical.

How did you hear about OpenStage?

Through the grapevine and meeting other wonderful talents within Fort Collins.

How familiar were you with "Treasure Island," the book or the stage adaptation, before you were cast in this show?

I read the book Treasure Island a few times when I was young. I remember it being an exciting story about adventure.

What made you decide to audition for this production?

The community that theater creates is unmeasurable and incredibly special. Being part of a supportive, fun, and welcoming group made it easy to audition and say yes to the commitment.

What was the most challenging part for you throughout rehearsals?

I have not been on stage or have had to memorize lines in many years. Being able to take creative risks and allow myself to “play” initially was more difficult than I remembered.

What was the most exciting thing you did in rehearsals?

Playing with swords of course!

What is your favorite scene or sequence in the show?

Way too many. I love seeing the creativity each actor is bringing to their character. It has been so enjoyable and inspiring.

Which sea shanty sung in the show is your personal favorite?

Each one is fun in their own way, but I do like all the ones with a “hey” at the end. Undoubtedly someone says “hey!” with gusto a verse (or two) too early which just makes everyone laugh and smile.

If you couldn’t pick the one you play, who is your favorite character in the show?

I don’t think I could the characters justice seeing how each actor has brought them to life in such wonderful ways, however Dick the Dandy does seem like a very fun character to play. Also the Doctor and Squire have a great banter driven relationship that lends itself to having a delightful stage partner.

What is something you spend your free time doing, outside of theatre?

Spending time outside hiking or on the water.

What is the importance of this show today? What do you hope the audiences get out of it?

There are many layers that one can take away from this show, but I hope people have some fun watching it and are ready to seek adventure.

What projects are you working on next? What is your dream role or dream show to work on?

I’ll be SM/ADing Addams Family next Fall with FCCT. We have already started to build out that world. I love shows where you can be silly, awkward and have fun. If one can incorporate glitter that is always an added bonus!

By Robert Louis Stevenson
Adapted by Bryony Lavery

Directed by Kate Austin-Gröen

June 3 – July 1, 2023
Playing at the Park at Columbine Health Systems

Come see Marissa and the rest of the cast in "Treasure Island" June 3 – July 1!

Set sail on a thrilling journey with cutthroat pirates, a treasure map, and a courageous young girl named Jim, who becomes entangled in a dangerous swashbuckling expedition. Jim gets more than she bargains for when she embarks on a daring sea voyage to an exotic island where a hoard of gold and gems is buried. Awash with treachery, mutiny, and unforgettable characters, including the infamous Long John Silver, Treasure Island comes alive in an epic theatrical adaptation of one of the world’s greatest adventure stories. Featuring nightly food trucks!