July 23rd, 2025
Fairmont Area Community Theater’s Summer Musical Runs July 24–August 3
FAIRMONT – Get ready to rock as the Fairmont Area Community Theater (FACT) presents All Shook Up, a high-energy musical comedy filled with the unforgettable hits of Elvis Presley. The show opens on Wednesday, July 24, at the Fairmont High School Performing Arts Center and runs through August 3.
Set in the 1950s, All Shook Up follows a mysterious guitar-playing drifter who brings music, excitement, and love to a conservative town. The musical features 24 Elvis favorites—including “Jailhouse Rock,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” and “Heartbreak Hotel”—and blends the rebellious spirit of Footloose with the comedic twists of Twelfth Night.
“We think this show will be a hit with our audience,” said Fairmont Opera House Executive Director Blake Potthoff. “It’s got the fun and familiarity of Elvis, a cast full of energy, and it helps us spread the message about why the Fairmont Opera House matters.”
FACT has been a beloved part of Fairmont’s arts scene for over 65 years. With the Fairmont Opera House temporarily closed for repairs, this marks the second year that the summer production will take place at the high school. Potthoff noted that the show also serves as a way to introduce new people to the Fairmont Opera House’s $4 million capital campaign.
“We’re not there yet, but we’ve raised over $1 million—and nearly all of it from local supporters,” Potthoff said. “Productions like this keep us connected with the community while reminding people how much we need our historic home.”
Directed by Sara Gudahl, All Shook Up brings together 54 local participants across the cast, crew, and pit orchestra. The cast includes returning actors and first-time performers from communities across Martin County and beyond, including Blue Earth, Truman, Sherburn, Welcome, and Fairmont.
“It’s one of the biggest shows we’ve ever done,” said Gudahl. “There’s a lot of singing, dancing, and laughter. The Elvis music makes it fun for all ages.”
Braelyn Faber, who stars as Natalie/Ed, is returning for her third FACT production and says the cast chemistry is stronger than ever. “It’s such a fun group. We’ve really bonded, and that makes the show even better,” Faber said.
The production team also includes vocal coach Molly Bleess, choreographer Courtney Steuber, pit director Katie Hoaglund, and set designers Jay and Tamarae Schmidt—many of whom are longtime volunteers.
“When you say ‘community theater,’ this is exactly what you mean,” said Gudahl. “We’ve come together from all over to make something special, and we’re excited to share it.”
Performance Schedule:
- Wednesday, July 24 – 7:00 PM
- Thursday, July 25 – 7:00 PM
- Friday, July 26 – 7:00 PM
- Saturday, July 27 – 2:00 PM (Matinee)
- Thursday, July 31 – 7:00 PM
- Friday, August 1 – 7:00 PM
- Saturday, August 2 – 2:00 PM (Matinee)
- Sunday, August 3 – 2:00 PM (Matinee)
All performances will take place at the Fairmont High School Performing Arts Center, located at 900 Johnson Street, Fairmont, MN.
Tickets are available online at www.fairmontoperahouse.org, by phone at 507-238-4900, or at the door. Prices are $25 for adults, $20 for Seniors (55+), $17 for Veterans/Active Duty Personnel, $10 for students, and free for children under 5 years old. If you purchase your tickets online, you can use the discount code “ONLINE” for $5 off every ticket that you purchase.
About Fairmont Area Community Theater:
The Fairmont Area Community Theater is a program of the Fairmont Opera House, providing high-quality theatrical productions and educational opportunities for the Southern Minnesota and Northern Iowa communities. Through the power of live performance, we aim to inspire, entertain, and enrich the lives of our audiences and participants.
About the Fairmont Opera House
The Fairmont Opera House has been the cultural cornerstone of the Fairmont area and surrounding communities since 1901, providing a stage for a diverse array of performances and events. The historic facility is currently closed while the organization works to raise the necessary funds for the structural repairs required to reopen the building.