The Galesburg Theatre Festival, established in 2014, emerged from a vibrant ensemble initiative aimed at celebrating and nurturing Shakespearean plays in the performing arts.
Over the years, the festival has featured a delightful array of performances, including beloved classics by Shakespeare, charmingly dubbed “Bard in the Yard,” and the enchanting “Shakes at the Lake”. These events have brought the timeless works of the Bard to life in unique and engaging ways, captivating audiences of all ages.
After a nine-year hiatus, we are thrilled to announce that the Galesburg Theatre Festival is making a triumphant return! We are excited to once again bring the magic of live theatre to our community, fostering a spirit of creativity and collaboration that enriches the cultural fabric of Galesburg. Join us as we embark on this new chapter, celebrating the enduring appeal of live theatre, Shakespeare and the power of community.
Education Credits: Robbie holds a Master of Fine Arts in Dramatic Arts from The University of Connecticut, a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre from Western Illinois University, and an Associate of Arts in Secondary Education from Richland Community College. He regularly attends theatre and education classes, retreats, and workshops to stay current.
Teaching Credits: Robbie has taught at Carl Sandburg College and Western Nebraska Community College as a full-time Instructor and Program Director, and at Knox College and Monmouth College as an Adjunct. He also served as a Graduate Assistant at The University of Connecticut. Robbie is known for developing highly effective instructional methods that cater to diverse learners from around the world. He fosters a fun and engaging learning environment that teaches the art of storytelling, promotes creativity, and encourages independence for those passionate about theatre.
Home: Originally from Decatur, Illinois, Robbie moved to the charming town of Galesburg, IL, with his wife, whom he loves dearly, and their three amazing daughters. “Our family enjoys the close-knit community and the rich history of Galesburg. Life in Galesburg is a perfect blend of tranquility and excitement!”
Education Credits: Dani holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre & Philosophy from Monmouth College, and an Associate of Arts in Theatre from Western Nebraska Community College.
Home: Originally from Scottsbluff, Nebraska. Dani moved to Galesburg two years ago to pursue her degree at Monmouth College. After receiving it, she decided to stay in the area to explore and help expand the growing arts community here in town.
Education Credits: Gary Mustain studied Theatre Arts and Acting at Illinois Community College, Carl Sandburg College, and Illinois State University.
Directing: Gary has directed over 50 productions including 5 years at Carl Sandburg College. He directed for 12 years at Abingdon High School and many productions for Community Theatre and Dinner Theatres.
Acting Credits: Gary has performed in close to 200 productions over his 50 years of acting. Gary has performed in Community Theatre, Zellmer's Dinner Theatre, Haberdasher's Dinner Playhouse, and Key Mysteries Dinner Theatre. Gary also created Coffee Bean Theatre where he has directed and staged 15 shows in several local venues.
In addition to acting and directing, Gary has costumed shows over his 50 years of theatre experience. He has also worked on every technical aspect of Theatre including, set construction, sound, lighting, make up, publicity, and props.
Gary is a longtime Galesburg resident and is retired from Carl Sandburg College where he worked as the coordinator of the Adult Learning Center. Gary is an skilled tailor and has sewn for many Galesburg and surrounding towns specializing in suits, gowns, home decor, and upholstery. Gary is thrilled to be an active part of Galesburg Theatre Festival and looks forward to many great new experiences.
Noelle Thompson is a Galesburg native and alumna of Galesburg High School, Carl Sandburg College, Monmouth College, and Rutgers University. She returned to Galesburg in 2019 to work as the Director of the Galesburg Public Library. Her love for both libraries and the Galesburg Theatre Festival stems from the belief that access to information, education, and art benefits whole communities. She shares three daughters with her husband, Robbie, and is grateful to raise them in a community that celebrates art, creativity, innovation, and optimism.
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