FAQs

We’re so glad you’re here! The Musical Theatre Program is more than just a production — it’s a community where students grow as performers, leaders, and teammates. With over 100 students involved each year, it truly takes a village of parents, families, and supporters to bring the magic to life.

This FAQ was created to answer some of the most common questions we receive about fees, scholarships, volunteering, and how the Boosters support our students. If you don’t see your question here, please reach out — we’re happy to help. Together, we make this program extraordinary!

 

Maple Grove Musical Theatre – Booster Club FAQs

Scholarships & Fees

Who do I contact if I’d like to request a scholarship?
Scholarships are available for all Booster fees. Please get in touch with Program Director Beth Hellstedt, the Booster President, or the Treasurer to request a scholarship.
Note: The Boosters cannot provide scholarships for the District Activity Fee of $90. However, the district offers free or reduced activity fees through an application on their website.


I already paid the $90 fee to the District. Why are you asking for an additional contribution and what does it cover?
Like all other sports and activities, the school district charges a participation fee. This fee covers basics such as building use and partial instructor/director compensation. However, the district’s contribution does not cover the full cost of running a large-scale musical production.

Each fall, about 115 students participate in the musical, receiving instruction in music, acting, choreography, and technical theater (lighting, sound, staging, costuming, props). Booster funds are used to:

  • Pay directors, choreographers, and tech leaders

  • Secure licensing rights and purchase music

  • Provide props, costumes, and equipment repairs

  • Support meals for students during long rehearsals

  • Host a cast party on closing night

  • Supplement costs for the spring retreat (students rehearse in professional theaters and attend a show in Minneapolis)

  • Cover the annual end-of-year banquet celebrating student accomplishments

Parents are encouraged to attend Booster meetings to hear updates on how funds are used and to help shape funding priorities.

Volunteering

What is the volunteer deposit?
Each season, it takes more than 1,000 volunteer hours to successfully produce the musical. Families are asked to provide a volunteer deposit to ensure participation. This deposit is returned (or checks shredded) once families fulfill their volunteer commitment.


Do volunteers get into the show for free?
No. All audience members, including volunteers, must purchase tickets.


I tried to sign up for a volunteer opportunity, but everything I wanted is already filled. What should I do?
Opportunities often fill quickly, but there are always other ways to help. Please reach out to the Volunteer Coordinator or watch for additional needs as the show approaches. Many behind-the-scenes tasks (such as sewing, building, organizing, or baking) become available closer to performance time.

General

Do I have to attend Booster meetings to be involved?
No. Meetings are open to all, but attendance is not required. They are a great way to stay informed, meet other families, and have a voice in program decisions.

How do I buy tickets for the musical?
Tickets are sold online through the school’s ticketing system (TicketLeap). Links are posted on the Booster website, the Musical Theatre website, Instagram, and in email communications as show dates approach.

Can younger siblings or non-high school students participate in the musical?
No. Only Maple Grove Senior High students may audition or participate on stage. However, families and community members can volunteer and attend performances. We also host a Kid Cast and Junior Cast workshop and performance for our spring Center Stage production. Watch for info to be released in late winter. 

How long is the time commitment for students in the musical?
Rehearsals typically run 4–5 days a week after school for 6–8 weeks leading up to the show. Leads and ensemble members have varying rehearsal schedules, and students are expected to attend when called. Tech and show week involve additional evening commitments.

 

Who decides which show is performed each year?
The directing team selects the show based on licensing availability, student casting opportunities, and production feasibility.

 

How do I stay updated on announcements and important dates?
The Booster website, email communications, and social media are the best places to find updates. Families are encouraged to check regularly.

 

 

Contact Info and Who to Contact

There was an email sent, but I didn’t receive it. Why not?
If you didn’t receive an email, it’s usually for one of these reasons:

  • It may have gone to your spam or junk folder — please check there first.

  • We may have an incorrect email address on file. Typos happen, so double-check the address we’re using.

  • Sometimes one parent’s email is on file, but the other parent is the one who checks messages more often.

To avoid missed communications, please make sure the email address we have is correct and belongs to the person who checks it most regularly.

 

Who to contact

Not sure who to contact? Here’s a quick guide:

  • I signed up to volunteer but I can’t make it → Volunteer Coordinator

  • I have a question about my Booster fee or payment → Booster President or Treasurer

  • I have a question about volunteer hours, dates, times, or communication → Volunteer Coordinator

  • My student is having an issue (casting, rehearsal concerns, etc.) → Program Director, Beth Hellstedt

  • I want to request a scholarship → Booster President or Treasurer

  • I didn’t receive an email or need to update my contact information → Booster Secretary 

  • I want to donate, sponsor, or support the program financially → Booster President or Treasurer

  • I have a question about tickets or the performance itself → Ticketing Coordinator- mgshmusicals@gmail.com

👉 If you’re ever unsure, start with the Booster President, and they’ll make sure your question gets to the right person- mgshtb@gmail.com

 

Who are the Booster Board Members? 

Jessica Westberg - President

Webster Ford - Vice President

Pam Sheedy - Secretary & Fundraising Director

Nick Knutson - Treasurer

Jenny Schaefgen- Volunteer Coordinator & Merchandise Director

Nicole Lowe- Hospitality Director

Jennifer Martinson- Member at Large

Mike Saer- Member at Large

  

 

 

✨ Thank You for Supporting Maple Grove Musical Theatre! ✨

Our program thrives because of the incredible support of families, volunteers, and our community. Every ticket purchased, every hour volunteered, and every contribution made helps our students shine on stage and behind the scenes.

We can’t wait to see you at the show — thank you for being part of the magic! 🎶🎭