​​LITTLE WOMEN, THE BROADWAY MUSICAL - Desert Foothills Theater - October 15-18, 2026

 

Ages 16+

Auditions: August 20-22, 2026

Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion​

Sandi Carll and Sierra Litman, Co-Directors

Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, the story follows the four March sisters growing up in Concord, Massachusetts while their father serves as a Union Army chaplain. The musical frames the narrative through Jo’s perspective as she tries to sell her stories in New York City. When her friend, Professor Bhaer, challenges her to write from the heart, Jo begins weaving the personal history of her family.

For more information, including audition and show dates, visit; DFTheater.org

MADAGASCAR KIDS - Desert Foothills Theater - September 17-20, 2026

 

Afterschool, No-Cut Children's Production, Ages 7-14

Rehearsals begin August 10

The Holland Center

Madagascar – A Musical Adventure KIDS is an upbeat, family-friendly stage adaptation of the hit DreamWorks animated movie. It follows a crew of Central Park Zoo animals who accidentally end up on the wild island of Madagascar and must learn the value of friendship and teamwork.

For more information, including audition and show dates, visit; DFTheater.org

GRUMPY OLD MEN, THE MUSICAL - Desert Foothills Theater - January 14-17, 2027

 

Adults

Auditions: November 6-7, 2026

The Holland Center

Sandi Carll, Director

The story centers on John Gustafson and Max Goldman, childhood friends turned bitter rivals who spend their days trading insults, playing practical jokes, and ice fishing. Their decades-long freezing war heats up dramatically when Ariel Truax, an eccentric, beautiful, and free-spirited college professor, moves into the house across the street. Both men instantly fall for her, transforming their old neighborhood grudge into a fiercely competitive, hilarious battle for her romantic affection.   

​

For more information, including audition and show dates, visit; DFTheater.org

TROLLS Jr., THE MUSICAL - Desert Foothills Theater - February 18-21, 2027

 

Audition-based, Children's Production, Ages 8-14

Auditions: November 19-20, 2026

Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center

Mackenzie Moller, Director

Poppy and her fellow Troll thespians must revamp their theatrical show when a strict foreign emissary and a vengeful, rehired Chef threaten Bergenland. The Trolls have to meet high diplomatic expectations or risk being eaten, proving that the show must go on.

For more information, including audition and show dates, visit; DFTheater.org

FOOTLOOSE, THE MUSICAL - Desert Foothills Theater - May 20-23, 2027

                                                                                                                                                                     

                                                                                                       

90-MINUTE VERSION

Teens 15+ and Adults

Auditions: March 11-13, 2027

Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center

Sandi Carll, Director

When Ren and his mother move from Chicago to a small farming town, he is prepared for the inevitable adjustment period at his new high school. But he’s not prepared for the rigorous local edicts, including a ban on dancing instituted by the local preacher, who is determined to exercise control over the town’s youth. When the reverend’s rebellious daughter sets her sights on Ren, her roughneck boyfriend tries to sabotage Ren’s reputation, with many of the locals eager to believe the worst about the new kid. The heartfelt story that emerges pins a father longing for the son he lost against a young man aching for the father who walked out on him.

To the rockin’ rhythm of its Oscar and Tony-nominated Top 40 score, augmented with dynamic new songs, Footloose celebrates the wisdom of listening to young people while guiding them with a warm heart and open mind.

For more information, including audition and show dates, visit; DFTheater.org

Registration now open for MADAGASCAR KIDS and auditions announced for LITTLE WOMEN on August 20-22 at Desert Foothills Theater

 

GET READY FOR A CRACK-A-LACKIN AFTER-SCHOOL SHOW AT DFT! 

Few spots remain for DFT’s first youth show of the season. 

THIS IS A 'NO CUT' SHOW. ALL REGISTERED STUDENTS WILL GET A PART IN MADAGASCAR KIDS!

This after-school program rehearses 4:30p-6:30p on Mondays/Wednesdays, & on Saturdays from 10a-1p starting August 10 at the Holland Center. (Cave Creek Rd./Carefree HWY)

Shows are scheduled for September 17-20.

DFT's youth programming transforms the lives of children, ages 7-14, through active participation in theatre arts, combining a fun and creative atmosphere with professional standards. Children of all skill levels and backgrounds are challenged and supported while developing their mental, physical, emotional, social, and creative potential through the joy and discipline of live theatre. 

Now registering ages 7-14 for Madagascar Kids at DFTheater.org

AUDITION ANNOUNCEMENT: LITTLE WOMEN, THE BROADWAY MUSICAL!

Are you ready to bring an American classic to life on stage? We are looking for a vibrant, talented cast (ages 16+/Adult) to bring iconic characters to life in DFTs upcoming production of Little Women, The Broadway Musical!

Whether you are a powerhouse Jo, a romantic Meg, a sweet Beth, an ambitious Amy, or perfect for one of the incredible supporting roles, we welcome you to audition!

Audition Dates: August 20-22

Show Dates: October 15-18

Play a part in a beautiful, heartwarming story filled with stunning music and unforgettable moments. 

For more info and to sign up for an audition spot, visit DFTheater.org

Desert Foothills Theater's 2026/2027 Season!

 

MADAGASCAR KIDS

Afterschool, No-Cut Children's Production, Ages 7-14

Rehearsals begin August 10

Shows: September 17-20, 2026

The Holland Center

LITTLE WOMEN, THE BROADWAY MUSICAL

Ages 16+

Auditions: August 20-22, 2026

Shows: October 15-18, 2026

Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion​​​

GRUMPY OLD MEN, THE MUSICAL

Adults

Auditions: November 6-7, 2026

Shows: January 14-17, 2027

The Holland Center

TROLLS Jr., THE MUSICAL

Audition-based, Children's Production, Ages 8-14

Auditions: November 19-20, 2026

Shows: February 18-21, 2027

Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center

FOOTLOOSE, THE MUSICAL

90-MINUTE VERSION

Teens 15+ and Adults

Auditions: March 11-13, 2027

Shows: May 13-16, 2027

Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion

CLICK HERE for more information, and to purchase tickets, when available

Friday, May 1 is Desert Foothills Theater Day!

from our friends at Desert Foothills Theater:

We are celebrating the end of our 50th Anniversary Season and are incredibly honored to be recognized by those we serve every day. 

May 1, 2026, Desert Foothills Theater Day, has been proclaimed by the State of Arizona, City of Scottsdale, Town of Carefree and Town of Cave Creek! This moment in our history has also been recognized by Congressman Schweikert. 

To all of those who have played a role in DFTs history, we appreciate your support throughout the years. Thank you for being a part of our special theater family. We welcome you back on stage and behind-the-scenes! Details of DFTs 51st season coming soon and we promise, as always, there's something for everyone.

If you'd like to help us set the stage for the next generation of DFT, please consider making a $51 donation to symbolically mark this special moment in our theater history. Your giving will go far to help keep the magic going. Thank you.

Donate today at https://www.dftheater.org/

Your first look at STUNG! at Desert Foothills Theater

 

photos by Pat O'Brien

CLICK HERE for more information on this production, which runs through April 19

STUNG! - Desert Foothills Theater - April 17-19 2026

​

Written by Andrea Markowitz

Starring Pat Drapac

A Full-Length Solo Biodrama about a Real-Life Con Woman

Scottsdale, Arizona con woman Sue Ellen Allen steps out of Perryville Prison and into the spotlight, reborn as a champion of criminal justice reform. Inspired by Sue Ellen's personal narratives, her con victim's recollections, and other actual events, STUNG! blurs the lines between performance and testimony, and between transformation and redemption. Insisting she was innocent of all charges, Sue Ellen rallies against an inhumane incarceration system that she’s determined to redress. While her prison reform advocacy finds success, her self-advocacy falters. In her zeal to appear blameless, she confesses to more than she intends, leaving her audience to wonder if the suffering she witnessed and endured behind bars ignited a noble new calling, or just another con. Darkly funny and full of surprises, STUNG! is a stunning posthumous tell-all from a woman who lived more than one life.

Limited Engagement April 16-19, 2026

Show Location: The Holland Center, 34250 N 60th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85266

Ticket Link: https://www.dftheater.org/stungtickets

Info and box office: 480-488-1981

Your first look at ANNIE at Desert Foothills Theater

 

photos by Abby Golden

CLICK HERE for more information on this production, which runs through March 29

Cast announced for ANNIE at Desert Foothills Theater

 

Penny Currier - Annie

Christian Krugman - Warbucks

Grace McGeoch - Grace

Lynn Golden - Hannigan

Bear Golden - Rooster

Brooklyn Stetz - Lily St. Regis

Sienna McCorkle - Molly

Emery Mueller - Kate

Avery Morse - Tessie

Rayna Sweeney - Pepper

Sofia Dahya - July

Mae Thorius - Duffy

Maya Snyder - Orphan Ensemble

Emma Samahy - Orphan Ensemble

Presley Batycki - Orphan Ensemble

Madi Carrington - Orphan Ensemble

William Randles - Bert Healy, Ensemble

Jenna Lombino - Connie Boylan, Ensemble

Jazmyne Yarbrough - Ronnie Boylan, Ensemble

Madelyn Decker - Bonnie Boylan, Ensemble

Brenna Eagmin - Star to be, Pugh, Ensemble

Sebastian Stallone - Drake

Frank Aaron - Roosevelt, Ensemble

Alli Lambert - Mrs. Greer, Perkins, Ensemble

Jasmine Samuels - Cecile, Ensemble

Chirine Holley - Annette, Ensemble

Aaron Mueller - Mr. Bundles, Ensemble

Phyllis Strupp - Apple Seller, Ensemble

Peter Strupp - Ickes, Ensemble

Josh Aaron - Hull, Ensemble

Rich Gilliam - Morganthau, Ensemble

Lee DeFord - Howe, Lt. Ward, Ensemble

Tony Baillargeon - Dog Catcher, Kaltenborn, Ensemble

Rachael Madden - Usherette, Ensemble

Remington Taylor - Asst. Dog Catcher, Ensemble

Gus Snyder - Sandy Dog

CLICK HERE for more information on this production, which runs March 26-29

ANNIE - Desert Foothills Theater - March 26-29, 2026

Based on the popular comic strip by Harold Gray, Annie has become a worldwide phenomenon and was the winner of seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical. The beloved book and score by Tony Award winners, Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin, features some of the greatest musical theatre hits ever written, including "Tomorrow."

With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone's hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. She is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage that is run by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan.

With the help of the other girls in the Orphanage, Annie escapes to the wondrous world of NYC. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Miss Hannigan's evil machinations... and even befriends President Franklin Delano Roosevelt! She finds a new home and family in billionaire, Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary, Grace Farrell, and a lovable mutt named Sandy.

TICKETS ARE $30.00 EACH

THURSDAY, MAR. 26 AT 7PM

FRIDAY, MAR. 27 AT 7PM

SATURDAY, MAR. 28 AT 2PM

SATURDAY, MAR. 28 AT 7PM

SUNDAY, MAR. 29 AT 12PM

SUNDAY, MAR. 29 AT 4PM

GENERAL ADMISSION

DOORS OPEN 30 MINUTES PRIOR TO SHOWTIME.

Seating is first come, first served.

NO REFUNDS. THANK YOU.

NEED ASSISTANCE OR HAVE QUESTIONS?

CONTACT MACKENZIE@AZFCF.ORG

OR CALL THE BOX OFFICE

480-488-1981

CLICK HERE for more information

 

Review Highlights: THE MOUSETRAP - Desert Foothills Theater

Alexa White, Chris Fletcher, and James Rowe
Photo by Sandi Carll

 

highlights from local critics reviews - (click link at bottom of each review to read complete review)

Click here for more information on this production that runs through February 8

"Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap remains one of theatre's most enduring mysteries, and Desert Foothills Theater's production proves that the intrigue, suspense, and clever storytelling can still captivate audiences decades after the play's debut. The carefully constructed tension keeps viewers guessing from start to finish, while a blend of humor and unease creates an atmosphere that is both entertaining and deliciously unsettling. The Mousetrap was the first play that Desert Foothills presented 50 years ago and they've brought it back as part of their golden anniversary season"   - Gil Benbrook, TalkinBroadway.com (click here to read the complete review)

Cast announced for THE MOUSETRAP at Desert Foothills Theater

Josh Aaron as Giles Ralston

Gordon Digby as Major Metcalf

Shawnie Fesyk as Mrs. Boyle

Chris Fletcher as Detective Sgt. Trotter

William Randles as Christopher Wren

James Rowe as Mr. Paravicini

Brookyln Stetz as Mollie Ralston

Alexa White as Miss Casewell

CLICK HERE for  more information on this production, which runs February 6-8

THE MOUSETRAP - Desert Foothills Theater - February 6-8, 2026

DFT is celebrating season 50 by honoring a show from season 1! 

Directed by Ric Alpers

Presenting the world's longest-running play!

After a local woman is murdered, the guests and staff at Monkswell Manor find themselves stranded during a snowstorm. It soon becomes clear that the killer is among them, and the seven strangers grow increasingly suspicious of one another. A police detective, arriving on skis, interrogates the suspects: the newlyweds running the house; a spinster with a curious background; an architect who seems better equipped to be a chef; a retired Army major; a strange little man who claims his car has overturned in a drift; and a jurist who makes life miserable for everyone. When a second murder takes place, tensions and fears escalate.

This record-breaking murder mystery features a brilliant surprise finish from Dame Agatha Christie, the foremost mystery writer of her time.

Shows February 6-8 at the Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center

Tickets at https://www.dftheater.org/mousetraptickets

Auditions for ANNIE at Desert Foothills Theater announced for January 24, Annie Audition Dance workshop announced for January 10

Audition for Annie and play a role in DFTs 50th Anniversary Season!

With roles for kids, teens, and adults, the whole family has an opportunity to shine onstage in this classic musical! Registration is now open for our youth audition workshop.

Auditions Coming Soon

January 24, 2026

 

ABOUT THE SHOW:

Based on the popular comic strip by Harold Gray, Annie has become a worldwide phenomenon and was the winner of seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical. The beloved book and score by Tony Award winners, Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin, features some of the greatest musical theatre hits ever written, including "Tomorrow."

With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone's hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. She is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage that is run by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan.

With the help of the other girls in the Orphanage, Annie escapes to the wondrous world of NYC. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Miss Hannigan's evil machinations... and even befriends President Franklin Delano Roosevelt! She finds a new home and family in billionaire, Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary, Grace Farrell, and a lovable mutt named Sandy.​

Audition Date: January 24, 2026

Director: Sandi Carll

Music Director: Kent Campbell

Choreographer: Nathalie Velasquez

Show Dates: March 26-29, 2026

Show Location: Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center

Click Here To Audition for Annie

This workshop will prep youth actors for Annie auditions!

 Registered students will go through a dance call and get tips for their upcoming audition!

Students do not have to audition for Annie to participate in this workshop.

Click Here To Register for Annie Dance Workshop!

Auditions for THE MOUSETRAP at Desert Foothills Theater announced for November 14 & 15

CASTING CALL

AGATHA CHRISTIE'S, THE MOUSETRAP (PLAY)

CASTING ADULTS 18+

This classic show will pay tribute to its successful run in DFTs very first season in 1975! Join the cast and be part of this special moment in our history as we honor Season 1 and celebrate Season 50! 

AUDITION DATES: NOVEMBER 14-15

DIRECTOR: Ric Alpers

SHOW DATES: February 6-8, 2026

SHOW LOCATION: Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center

To secure your audition and gain more info: visit https://www.dftheater.org/mousetrapauditions

REHEARSALS

The Holland Center, Home of DFT

34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale, AZ 85266

Shared entrance with YMCA & Paradise Valley Community College

Rehearsals: November 20, 2025-January 29, 2026. (Holiday breaks built in)

Generally, rehearsals will be held Monday-Thursday (6p-9p)

TECH

January 31-February 5 (CSFAC)

SHOWS

Friday, Feb. 6, 7PM

Saturday, Feb. 7, 2PM & 7PM

Sunday, Feb. 8, 12PM & 4PM

AUDITION DETAILS: No preparation needed. Actors will be asked to cold read from the script and read with other actors during their time slot.

Come prepared to commit fully to the character, explore physical movement and choices, and try the text a few different ways. Though not required, you are encouraged to try an RP/British accent in your audition. 

Presenting the world's longest-running play!

 

After a local woman is murdered, the guests and staff at Monkswell Manor find themselves stranded during a snowstorm. It soon becomes clear that the killer is among them, and the seven strangers grow increasingly suspicious of one another. A police detective, arriving on skis, interrogates the suspects: the newlyweds running the house; a spinster with a curious background; an architect who seems better equipped to be a chef; a retired Army major; a strange little man who claims his car has overturned in a drift; and a jurist who makes life miserable for everyone. When a second murder takes place, tensions and fears escalate.

 

This record-breaking murder mystery features a brilliant surprise finish from Dame Agatha Christie, the foremost mystery writer of her time.

Desert Foothills Theater is committed to inclusive casting. We are open to all genders, races, and abilities. Please contact Sandi Carll to request any necessary accommodations for your audition. Sandi@azfcf.org or 480-488-1981

Agatha Christie's, The Mousetrap is presented by Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc.

Adult Vocalists needed for Desert Foothills Theater's Concert-Style Fundraising concert

DFT is looking to secure one female and two male vocalists to join our cast of adult performers for this special fundraising concert event in Cave Creek.

Live band. Music directed by Kent Campbell. Costume provided. Flexible rehearsals this month.

Please email Sandi@azfcf.org if you are interested in getting more info and throwing your cowboy hat in the ring of consideration.

SHREK THE MUSICAL, KIDS - Desert Foothills Theater - October 9-12, 2025

Fall in LOVE with this FAIRYTALE all OGRE again!

Don't miss this happily-ever-after show by kids for kids!

Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film and the Tony Award-winning fairytale adventure, Shrek KIDS features music by two-time Tony winner Jeanine Tesori (Shrek JR., Kimberly Akimbo) and a sidesplitting book by Tony winner David Lindsay-Abaire (Shrek JR., Kimberly Akimbo). 

Part romance and part twisted fairy tale, Shrek KIDS is an irreverently fun show with a powerful message for the whole family.

 

Once upon a time, in a faraway swamp, there lived an ogre named Shrek. When he finds his swamp invaded by banished fairytale misfits who have been cast off by Lord Farquaad, a tiny terror with big ambitions, Shrek sets off with a wisecracking donkey to confront him. But when he challenges Farquaad, he is then handed a task — if he rescues feisty princess Fiona, his swamp will be righted.

Directed by Mackenzie Moller

Choreographer, Rachael Madden

Music Director, Jackie Paul

Shows at The Holland Center

34250 N. 60th St. Scottsdale, AZ 85266

October 9-12, 2025

Tickets now on sale at DFTheater.org

We hoofed and we poofed and we got the greatest kids cast ever!

Congratulations!

Abigail Magid: Young Fiona/Ensemble

Addison Lyon: Dulocian

Adelyn Jenkins: Dulocian

Andrew Zeleznak: Guard Captain

Ava Bedard: Guard

Avery Oehring: Bishop/Ensemble

Brooklyn Yang: Wicked Witch

Cassidy Beckwith: Dragon/Guard

Charlotte Hanson: Dulocian

Charlotte Holwerda: Storyteller 1

Christian Cupo: Young Shrek/Ensemble

Elizabeth Grimm: Dulocia

Ella Cupo: Peter Pan

Ella Mueller: Dragon/Guard

Elle Radwick: Lord Farquaad

Ellie Takawaki: Pig 1

Ethan Bedard: Papa Bear

Harper Herman: Dulocian

Isabel Sanchez: Dulocian

Josephine Nicholson: Rooster/Ensemble

Judah Yang: Dwarf/Ensemble

Justice Ulrich: Baby Bear

Katherine Milligan: Storyteller 3

Logan Billings: Pinocchio

Makayla Osuch: Pig 2

Maren Wilwerding: Mama Bear

Milo Currier: Shrek

Oliver Currier: Donkey

Olivia Henricks: Pig 3

Owen Radwick: Big Bad Wolf

Penelope Phelps: Mama Ogre/Ensemble

Penny Currier: Teen Fiona/Ensemble

Rayna Sweeney: Fiona

Scarlett Bowers: Ugly Duckling

Sofia Berger: Gingy

Tyler Fridlund: Papa Ogre/Ensemble

Helena Ganser: Storyteller 2

SHREK KIDS is presented through a special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTIShows.com.