“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 who has graced such company rosters as Olde Towne Dinner Theatre, Mighty Corson Art Players and Broad Cast Theatre, Rose Rhead.

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

There were a couple. My very first community theatre role since high school was an eye-opening experience for me — this is something I can do! Secondly, when our show won the State One-Act Play in 2015, it was such an honor to represent Mighty Corson Art Players (MCAP) at the Regional AACTFest.

2. Describe the moment you knew you wanted to be a performer.

It was in high school. We performed Carousel, and the emotions that the actors brought out have stuck with me over the past four decades. I will never forget “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” Then, after raising kids, I watched a church group perform dinner theatre in 2009; that’s when it dawned on me that I could continue doing theatre productions. That was 33 shows ago — can’t stop now!

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

Arrive earlier than any of the cast, sit in the green room and decompress and go over my lines — but, of course, the tongue twisters to warm up your lips and voice are a staple at Olde Towne.

Rose Rhead (second from right) with castmates (from left) Kayla Carrero, Valerie Arens & Terry Zerfas in *A Christmas Carol* with the Premiere Playhouse in December 2022.

4. Highlight three of your proudest theatre résumé moments.

Boeing-Boeing was my all-time favorite role. It was so fun to do — plus, I got to train for a German accent. My very first role in The Man Who Came to Dinner was a highlight for me, because my son also had a small role in the play. The third honorable mention would be The 39 Steps, because it challenged me to create three completely different female characters within the one play.

5. Whom do you consider your greatest acting influences?

Every actor or actress I’ve ever had the honor to perform with. I always love to watch and learn from others. Brian Schipper and John Boe have also been very influential in helping me grow as a performer and person.

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

Pizza and a Diet Coke

Rose Rhead (left) performs alongside Logan Leavitt, Erin Sharp, Mo Plastow, Jessica Ashton and Dave Boe in the fall 2023 production of *A Fox on the Fairway* at Olde Towne Dinner Theatre.

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?

Wicked, by Winnie Holzman & Stephen Schwartz
To Kill a Mockingbird, by Aaron Sorkin
And for sheer enjoyment, anything by Ken Ludwig

8. If casting parameters don’t exist, what would be your dream role?

Definitely playing the part of Ethel Thayer in On Golden Pond.

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

For brand-new people wanting to give community theatre a try, don’t ever give up. Keep learning and growing through each audition and show. I hope they know the impact they can make on an audience — whether it’s just a show for entertainment or if the show gives meaning or supports a message. And, most of all, support each other, because theatre will become your second family.

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

Two lessons, really. Go beyond learning the lines. Have fun — enjoy the moment.

10 Things with Rose Rhead