“10 Things” is a regular feature in which the Sioux Falls Stage staff answers 10 burning questions with a performing artist — this time we feature a local theatre performer, technician and educator, Abby Kustak, who serves as production and education coordinator for The Premiere Playhouse and recently became a two-time Sioux Falls Stage Award nominee for Mighty Corson Art Players’ Women Playing Hamlet.

1. What is the single-most defining moment of your performing arts career?

Undoubtedly, my breakthrough role as Madam in (the Premiere Playhouse’s) Cinderella stands as the singular most defining moment in my performing arts career. It marked my return to the stage after a significant hiatus since the age of 18, and that production truly opened countless doors, propelling me forward in my acting journey.

2. Describe the moment you knew you wanted to be a theatre artist.

The transformative magic of watching actors take their final bow was always deeply captivating for me. I yearned for that experience, spending many years as an audience member wondering what that feeling would truly encompass — joy, pure happiness, pride, overwhelming emotion or even a tinge of sadness. I can now say, from profound personal experience, that it is all of those things and so much more.

3. What’s your theatre warm-up routine?

My theatre warm-up routine is a meticulously structured process, designed to channel my anxious energy and maintain focus. It typically involves applying my makeup at home, donning my costume and reviewing my script, visualizing my movements while meticulously reciting my lines, engaging in a physical stretch and a final recheck of all props and then, it’s showtime.

This routine is essential for me to relax and remain centered, especially given my predisposition to anxiety and easy overstimulation.

Abby Kustak performs alongside Clinton Store in the Premiere Playhouse’s 2023 production of *Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella* at the Orpheum Theater Center.

4. Highlight three of the theatre skills of which you’re proudest.

(1) Voice Acting: I possess a profound passion for bringing characters to life through voice. My commitment lies in ensuring each voice I embody is distinct and uniquely tailored, creating a rich tapestry of characters.

(2) Physical Theatre: I am a strong believer in the power of physical expression. I leverage a full range of facial expressions and deliberate bodily movements to embody the essence of my characters. For me, “normal” is simply an uninspired choice.

(3) Improvisation: While perpetually a work in progress, I find immense joy and often discover a remarkable cleverness in the dynamic environment of theatrical improvisation.

5. If casting parameters didn’t exist, what would be your dream role?

As I'm still relatively new to the theatre world, articulating a single “dream role” has always been a challenging question. Instead, I envision a series of compelling role descriptions I aspire to pursue:

A Dramatic Lead: I'd relish the opportunity to explore and showcase a softer, more vulnerable side of my acting.
A Non-Verbal Character: The challenge of communicating solely through body language deeply appeals to me; it's a true test of theatrical storytelling.
A Gender-Bending Role: I'm intrigued by the prospect of tackling roles traditionally played by males, as many offer truly exceptional character arcs.
A One- or Two-Person Production: The intensity and focus of a small-cast show would be an exhilarating artistic challenge.
A Puppet Actor: This is, without a doubt, an absolute dream.

Abby Kustak performs alongside husband Casey Kustak in the Premiere Playhouse’s 2024 production of *Oklahoma!* at the Orpheum Theater Center.

6. What’s your go-to post-show wrap-party menu?

This might reveal my age, but after a successful show run, my ideal celebration menu is undeniably Culver’s! It's the cheeseburger kids' meal with the “scoop of the day,” but you must order a side of cheese sauce for dipping your fries. It’s simply divine!

7. If you were banished to a deserted island and could only bring three play or musical scripts with you, which three would you select?

Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller
The Play That Goes Wrong by Henry Lewis, Henry Shields, & Jonathan Sayer
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers by Lawrence Kasha & David Landay

8. What’s your favorite non-theatre-related pastime?

My favorite non-theatre-related pastime is playing volleyball. I'm proud to say I still hold the record at my high school for the most blocks in a single season.

9. What’s your hope for the next generation of theatre artists?

My greatest hope for the next generation of theatre artists is to see more families participating in theatre together. Imagine the richness of a shared creative experience, with parents, children and even grandparents collaborating on a production. This isn't just about performing; it's about building stronger bonds, creating lasting memories and instilling a love for the arts across generations. It would cultivate a truly unique and supportive community within the theatre world.

10. Give advice to fellow theatre artists in just five words.

Never make the same choice.

10 Things with Abby Kustak