Brynn Carnesecca | American Fork Citizen

Utah favorite “The Scarlet Pimpernel” soars into the Ruth Theater in Pleasant Grove with wit, drama and beauty. Having never seen the show before, I received a memorable introduction to this beloved show from the Ruth.

“The Scarlet Pimpernel” follows Sir Percy Blakeney as he leads a group of British men to rescue French nobles from the guillotine. The classic adventure story captures the energy of the French Revolution with a sweeping score by Frank Wildhorn and book/lyrics by Nan Knighton. Love, loss and danger await every turn in this bombastic musical.

While the actors and staging were beautiful as always, the material itself was subpar. The story kept me engaged and guessing, but the pacing felt slow in a lot of places. Composer Frank Wildhorn is not one of my favorites; his scores often feel uneven and poorly written. As a lover of theatrical music, I found the music itself melodramatic and boring amid such an interesting story. My favorite parts of the production were surprisingly not the musical numbers themselves, but the hilarious scenes and script.

The cast was the shining beacon in the show. Scott Hendrickson (TThS Cast) gave one of my favorite performances I’ve seen on the Ruth stage as Sir Percy Blakeney. His powerful voice, hilarious scenes and overall presence were so delightful to watch. I fell in love with his portrayal of the character and would recommend buying a ticket just to see him.

Malia Morley (TThS Cast) gave a stellar performance as Marguerite St. Just. This complicated role requires an actress who can act and sing with the best of them, and Morley was just that. Bronson Dameron (TThS Cast) was a fantastic Chauvelin. He was menacing, convincing and captivating as the show’s main antagonist. He had many standout moments, and his vocal power didn’t miss a beat.

Another standout who continually caught my eye was Cole Hixson (TThS Cast) in the role of Armand St. Just. He was perfectly cast in the role and had the acting skills to back it up. Percy’s entourage was beyond fantastic. My personal favorite was Joshua Jones (TThS Cast) as Farleigh. His over-the-top facial expressions and on-stage persona were electric. Even during a moment of technical difficulty, Jones played it off with humor.

One of my favorite elements of the show was the costumes, designed by Lauri Baird. Each one felt unique, and I especially loved the delightful outfits worn by the Scarlet Pimpernel crew during “The Creation of Man.”

While this may not be my favorite source material, there was one piece that made this show stand out amongst others. “The Scarlet Pimpernel” gave the audience the chance to see grown men on stage having real fun. Parts of the show almost felt like “Mamma Mia” for the boys- unapologetic, fun and splashy.

If you are a “Scarlet Pimpernel” fan, this show is for you. If you aren’t, this show may still be for you. Don’t expect to go home singing a tune, but you will thoroughly enjoy this night out at the theater. This show may not be appropriate for children and includes a few morbid scenes, such as a man getting executed on stage and a woman being shot.

“The Scarlet Pimpernel” runs until August 22 with nightly performances at 7:30 and select matinees. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.theruth.org.

Ryann Anderegg | American Fork Citizen

The American Fork Amphitheater was filled with music, laughter, and community spirit on Monday evening, July 13, as hundreds gathered for a free concert featuring BYU football standouts Bear and Tiger Bachmeier alongside their uncle, Don Bachmeier, performing together as Music Bachs.

The concert, presented by the Harrington Center for the Arts as part of its annual Concerts in the Park series, attracted families, football fans, and music lovers from across Utah County. Food trucks opened at 6:30 p.m., allowing attendees to enjoy dinner before the music began at 7 p.m., as the sun set over the amphitheater. Lawn chairs and blankets filled nearly every available space, while children played on the grass and neighbors visited before the first song.

Many attendees broke out their best BYU blue gear, recognizing the Bachmeier name from BYU football. Bear Bachmeier, the Cougars’ quarterback, and his younger brother Tiger, a rising wide receiver, have become well known among BYU fans.

In recent months, they have also gained attention for something beyond athletics. Videos of the pair singing in retirement homes and other community settings have circulated online, introducing audiences to another side of the talented siblings. Their heartfelt performances have resonated with viewers, making Monday night’s concert an opportunity for many to hear them perform live for the first time.

Joined by their uncle, Don Bachmeier, the trio delivered a full-length concert featuring a variety of musical styles. Throughout the evening, they combined polished harmonies and an engaging stage presence, creating an entertaining and community-building atmosphere.

Between songs, the performers shared stories, joked with one another, and interacted personally with the crowd, making the evening less like a formal concert and more like an intimate gathering of friends.

The concert was another successful installment in the Harrington Center for the Arts’ Concerts in the Park series, which has become a popular summer tradition in American Fork. The organization continues to provide free and low-cost arts experiences designed to make live performances accessible to everyone.

According to Harrington Center for the Arts Vice President and Founder Spencer Stevens, the organization strives to think creatively about how to bring unique artistic experiences to the community. “Our mission is to make the arts more accessible,” Stevens said before the event. “Bringing Bear and Tiger Bachmeier to the stage allows us to reach an entirely new audience and invites them to experience music in a meaningful way.”

Football fans who may not typically attend community concerts found themselves enjoying an outdoor musical performance alongside longtime supporters of the arts. “It was like a big party.” Said Utah County resident Jacob Anderegg. “The area was full of football players, fans, and people from around the area enjoying music by some of our favorite players.”

The concert also highlighted how music has become an important part of the Bachmeier family’s identity. While Bear and Tiger continue pursuing successful football careers, they have demonstrated that their talents extend well beyond the football field.

One of the highlights of the evening came after the concert concluded. Fans formed a long line to meet the performers during a post-concert meet-and-greet and merchandise signing. Children proudly wore BYU gear while waiting for autographs, and families took photos with the musicians, thanking them for sharing their talents with the community. Many players also attended, including BYU football coach Kalani Sitake, who met with many fans throughout the evening.

The concert’s success demonstrated the growing popularity of the Harrington Center for the Arts’ summer programming. By combining nationally recognized performers, local talent, and unique community experiences, the organization has created events that appeal to a wide range of audiences.

Supported in part through the American Fork PARC Tax, the Concerts in the Park series provides residents with opportunities to experience professional-quality entertainment without the cost often associated with live performances.

As the final notes faded Monday evening and families packed up their chairs, many lingered to visit with neighbors and enjoy the warm summer night. The atmosphere reflected what organizers hope each concert achieves by creating opportunities for people to gather, connect, and make lasting memories together.

Brynn Carnesecca | American Fork Citizen

Timpanogos Arts Foundation is involving actors of all ages with their summer production of “Matilda.” This larger-than-life show is adapted from the Roald Dahl book and is pure whimsy from beginning to end.

“Matilda the Musical” tells the story of Matilda Wormwood, a young genius who is neglected and hated by her wacky parents and brother. Her love of reading fuels her as she attends school for the first time, under the evil headmistress, Miss Agatha Trunchbull. She meets new friends, including Miss Honey, stands up for herself and discovers the power of her mind in this family-friendly musical.

This well-loved story was brought to life by a spectacular cast, both with lead and supporting roles. The show is double cast, with me watching the Red Cast. Brooklyn Alley was the perfect Matilda I could’ve asked for. She was sweet, spunky and genuinely so adorable. She barely ever left the stage, and I was swept away by her storytelling, voice and her impressive British accent.

Emma Austin was the sweetest and most endearing Miss Honey. Her rosy cheeks, soaring vocals and cute energy brought life to every moment she was in. Bryson Alley was one of the absolute highlights- playing the formidable Miss Trunchbull. His comedic timing, vocals and physicality were hilarious, and the audience loved it. I don’t think I’ve ever heard an audience laugh so hard during a production of “Matilda.”

Matilda’s family was another one of my favorite parts of the show. They managed to be nasty and mean while still being so darn fun to watch. Emma-Claire Riddle was a strong Mrs. Wormwood, shining especially bright during the song “Loud.” Josh Tenney was everything I could’ve wished for in a Mr. Wormwood. He was funny, mean and so enjoyable to hate. Eli May was equally as fun to watch as Michael Wormwood.

The ensemble of children and adults was phenomenal. I was blown away, particularly by the young actors and how much they delivered. Weston Klemetson was a perfect Bruce, and Greta Peterson was the most lovable Lavender. But my personal favorite was David Higginson as Nigel. He was so full of life that I couldn’t take my eyes off him whenever he was on stage.

Outside of the actors themselves, the set was spectacular. Designed by Kristyan Williams, the entire show felt ripped right out of one of Dahl’s illustrations. Light-up letters and teetering bookcases made for the perfect stage to tell “Matilda.” Another one of my favorite elements was the show’s visuals, such as when a young boy’s ears stretch or when book pages begin to float on their own. Many of the moments caught me by surprise and had me looking around to see how the tricks were done.

Overall, this show truly understood the heart of “Matilda.” At its core, it is a story about childhood, love and the power within every person to do remarkable things. I loved seeing Timpanogos Arts Foundation produce another smash hit with “Matilda.” This show is perfect for kids of all ages and adults.

“Matilda” runs until July 18 with evening performances and a few matinees. Individual tickets or season tickets can be purchased at timparts.com.

Ryann Anderegg | American Fork Citizen

Summer evenings in American Fork are once again coming alive with music as the Harrington Center for the Arts continues its tradition of Concerts in the Park, bringing nationally recognized artists, local performers and hundreds of community members together at the American Fork Amphitheater.

This series of free concerts is held Monday evenings from June 29 through Aug. 17 at the American Fork Amphitheater, 454 N. Center St. Each concert begins at 7 p.m., with food trucks opening at 6:30 p.m. For many residents, the weekly concerts have become a summertime tradition.

Families gather, spread out blankets and enjoy performances in one of the city’s most scenic outdoor venues. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and attendees are reminded to bring approved low-profile chairs while following usher instructions to ensure everyone has a clear view of the stage.

One of the most anticipated performances of the season will take place on Monday, July 27, when country music star Collin Raye returns to American Fork by popular demand.

Raye remains one of country music’s most recognizable voices, building an impressive career during the 1990s with 24 Top 10 singles, 16 No. 1 hits and 10 Male Vocalist of the Year nominations from the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music.

His catalog includes heartfelt classics such as “Love, Me,” “In This Life,” and “Not That Different,” as well as upbeat fan favorites like “My Kind of Girl” and “That’s My Story.” His music has become the soundtrack to countless celebrations and personal milestones, making his return to American Fork especially meaningful for longtime fans.

American Fork Concerts in the Park events reflect the Harrington Center for the Arts’ ongoing mission to provide high-quality arts and entertainment opportunities that are accessible to the entire community.

American Fork will also welcome visitors for a concert during the opening night of Steel Days on Saturday, July 18, with an evening packed full of music, celebration and community pride at Mary and Art Dye Park, 1000 N. 550 East. The Opening Night Concert will feature the energetic Wasatch Show Band at 7 p.m.

Known for high-energy performances and crowd-pleasing hits, the Wasatch Show Band has built a reputation as one of Utah’s premier community performance groups. Their concerts blend classic rock, pop, jazz, big band, country and contemporary favorites into an entertaining show that encourages audiences to dance and sing along.

Following the concert, the official Steel Days Opening Ceremonies will begin at 9 p.m., celebrating the city’s heritage, community spirit and the start of a week of festivities.

This series of concerts mirrors the spirit that defines Steel Days and the American Fork community itself by bringing people together through shared experiences and celebrating the arts as an important part of everyday life.

With nationally recognized performers, talented local musicians, family-friendly activities and beautiful outdoor venues, this summer promises to offer something for everyone in American Fork. These concerts continue to showcase outstanding entertainment and the strong sense of community that makes American Fork a special place to call home.

Staff Writer | American Fork Citizen

Canyon Grove Arts Academy will open a new campus in Lehi this August, offering local families another educational option with an arts-focused hybrid learning program.

The new campus, located at 3046 W Maple Loop Drive in Lehi, will provide students with academic instruction alongside a wide variety of enrichment and arts-based classes. According to information provided by the school, course offerings will include dance, theater, choir, band, piano, visual arts, ceramics, cooking, woodworking, Spanish, karate and more.

School representatives said the goal of the new Lehi campus is to give families access to a different kind of educational experience, one that combines core academics with creative, hands-on learning opportunities.

Canyon Grove Arts Academy also plans to support families using Utah Fits All scholarships, which can help make alternative educational programs more accessible for students throughout the area.

“As we prepare to open our doors, we would love the opportunity to share our story with the Lehi community,” Kaitlyn Jaynes of Canyon Grove Arts Academy said in the announcement. “We believe Canyon Grove Arts Academy will be a wonderful addition to the Lehi community, and we’d love to help spread the word to local families who may be looking for a different educational experience for their children.”

The school is expected to open in August. Additional information, photos, tour opportunities and interviews with school leadership may be available as the opening date approaches.

Families interested in learning more about Canyon Grove Arts Academy’s new Lehi campus may contact Kaitlyn Jaynes at [email protected] or 760-213-0302.

https://www.canyongrove.com

Brynn Carnesecca | American Fork Citizen

Classic children’s book “Matilda” comes to life with Timpanogos Arts Foundation this summer. This family-friendly musical features actors of all ages singing in the colorful world of Roald Dahl.

Follow along with Matilda, a young girl with astonishing intelligence. When she goes to a new school and meets the cruel headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, she uses her new powers to rise up. Featuring favorite characters Matilda, Miss Trunchbull and Miss Honey, this musical is a great opportunity for a night out.

“Matilda” will run June 26-July 18 with evening performances and various matinees. For more information or to buy tickets, visit www.timparts.com.

By: Brynn Carnesecca

American Fork Citizen

On June 9, the American Fork City Council unanimously approved the 2026-2027 $1.58 million PARC tax proposal. Funds will be dispersed to different organizations under the parks, arts, recreation and culture umbrella. Council member Clark Taylor introduced the motion and Council member Ernie John seconded. The remaining council members voted unanimously to approve the ordinance, as presented by the PARC Program Board. 

The council first discussed the approval at the May 6 council meeting. The PARC Tax Advisory Board reviewed various applications, totaling $3,548,224, for the funds before recommending the final allocations. Board members considered community impact, broad appeal, and alignment with city survey results to determine which programs would receive funds. 

After reviewing the applications, the following organizations were approved to receive funds: 

● American Fork City: $1,110,634

● Friends of American Fork Library: $25,050

● Harrington Center for the Arts: $127,000

● Nashville in the Rockies: $7,000

● Timpanogos Arts Foundation: $213,000

● Timpanogos Chamber Music: $8,000

● Timpanogos Chorale of Utah: $14,530

● Wasatch Contemporary Dance: $2,786

● Wasatch Music Alliance: $72,000.00 

The PARC tax became effective April 1, 2015. Since then, funds have been dispersed throughout the city for the benefit of the community. This year’s approved budget will go towards various services and amenities for city residents. 

Highlights include improvements to city parks (including Art Dye), boat harbor dock replacements, American Fork Library programs, Concerts in the Park series, Fork Fest, TAF performing arts programs, and other concerts through the city’s choirs and bands. The library is also set to continue working on teen spaces. 

The breakdown of the funds is as follows. 

● Park-related projects receive 46% 

● Arts-related projects receive 1%

● Recreation-related projects receive 20% 

● Culture-related projects receive 33% 

The city itself is set to receive the largest allocation of funds. The $1,110,634 for the 2026-27 fiscal year will go towards: 

● Art Dye Bond Payment: $350,000

● Monarch Park Improvements: $80,000

● Beehive Park Improvements: $179,150

● Lakeview Park: $185,000

● Evergreen Park Basketball & Pickleball: $95,420

● Boat Harbor Dock Replacement: $24,000

● Lion’s Park Improvements: $125,880

● AF Library – Teen Area Phase 3: $65,684

● Cemetery – Veteran’s Memorial Stone: $5,500

Items that were not recommended for funding included a picnic area at Art Dye Park, park amenities, an aqua climb at the fitness center, concerts at the Living Bethlehem event, and a public art feature in the city. 

The PARC tax will continue through to 2033. It generates revenue through a 0.1% sales tax specifically designated for the PARC activities. The program has grown significantly since it was first approved, collecting $818,889 in its first full year. This year’s allocation of over $1.5 million represents a large jump. 

PARC tax funds change annually. Applicants for 2027 may submit a funding request in the coming months. The budget for 2026-27 will be implemented for the 2026-27 fiscal year. For more information, visit the city council’s agenda for June 9 at www.americanfork.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06092026-2257 or the PARC tax website, www.afparc.org.  

Brynn Carnesecca | American Fork Citizen

When kids are taught art, music, dance or theater, there is often a moment where they “light up.” Whether it be from a performance going well or a finished painting, the arts can bring a kind of connection that cannot be found anywhere else.

Yet, in 2026, youth spend approximately 7 ½ hours on screens each day, according to the AACAP. Compared to the 1-2 hours they spend on the arts or creative endeavors, screens have become the norm for children’s entertainment.

In the last few years, arts teachers from across the state have noticed significant changes in technology use, particularly in Artificial Intelligence, and how people use it in the arts. Generating songs, rendering entire artworks, or choreographing challenging dance routines can often be delegated to AI. But many teachers hope it won’t take over the creative sphere.

“Art reflects society now. Art is never made in a bubble. It always encapsulates what the human experience is now,” said AFHS art teacher Heidi Boden.

When it comes to using AI for art, Boden believes it can cheapen the experience.

“It doesn’t have any human experience,” Boden explained. “It doesn’t have any craftsmanship, and it’s too plastic-looking. It’s abhorrent and not good for the environment.”

Engaging in the arts at a young age can rewire a child’s pathways and lead to more creativity, according to a study by the National Library of Medicine. It can also build visual-spatial reasoning and lead to greater academic success in other areas.

“The arts are important for human development because they allow you to be expressive. Your brain can process things through the arts that you can’t in any other way,” Boden said.
When practiced in a group, the arts can also be a great way for the youth to connect with one another and with the world around them.

“Music is just joyful. We sing, play, dance in class, and are creating all the time,” said Danya Paxman, the music teacher at Legacy Elementary School. “It really brings the kids together and creates unity in the class.”

With the rise of AI, educators have continued to hold meetings to discuss the ever-present need for the arts in schools.
“We would lose that authentic sense of care and connection. AI cannot create care or empathy. It’s just an algorithm,” Boden explained.

Paxman added, “[The arts] is the most engaging or exciting part of their day…I can’t imagine a world where students weren’t experiencing art and connecting it to other subjects. Music is such a great catalyst.”

When using AI in any form, Boden encourages her students to use it as a tool, like a pencil or piece of charcoal. She has also found that when students rely too heavily on AI, they can feel a disconnect between what they can physically create and what the algorithms provide.

“They need to try[music] out, listen to it, create it, and play with it,” Paxman shared. “That is what affects them the most… At this age, the most important thing is to experience it and learn to love it. As they grow, they will be able to add to their knowledge base.”

Looking to the future, Boden and Paxman believe that more research is needed so that it can be used in any capacity in K-12 instruction. In the field in general, many teachers believe it should be banned entirely from schools. Until further research and understanding are gained, it can be tricky to know how to use it without harming a child’s education.

Beyond the harm that comes from using AI, the arts can be healing for a child’s soul, helping them process trauma or take a brain break from the traditional classroom.

“Art is very dear to my soul,” Boden said. “It creates a sense of beauty and wholeness and wellness for me. I wouldn’t be a complete human being without the arts in my life.”

Arts classes are continually taught at K-12 schools throughout Utah. For more information on what is offered, visit http://www.schools.utah.gov/curr/finearts.

Brynn Carnesecca | American Fork Citizen

The Ruth has created this year’s most magical theatrical experience with “Once On This Island.” From the moment you walk into the theater, you enter a different world. Tropical smells, lighting, and real sand, water and fire on the stage transport audiences to Ti Moune’s island home.

The rarely-performed musical sweeps onto Utah’s stages with charisma and utter joy. Loosely based on the story of “The Little Mermaid,” “Once On This Island” tells the charming story of young Ti Moune. The unique journey shares her experiences with life, love and even death. As she navigates new love and loss, she is influenced at every turn by the island’s gods: Agwe, Papa Ge, Erzulie and Asaka.

This show was one of the best pieces of theater I have ever witnessed performed on a Utah stage. Not only was the cast (which is made up entirely of people of color) dazzling, but the source material was brilliant. Somehow, the story uses simple means to communicate complex ideas and problems. I, for one, hope to see many more stories of this nature told on Utah’s many stages.

Blythe Snowden leads as Ti Moune. Her sweet smile and infectious spirit carry much of the show. She rarely leaves the stage, and she has energy to spare. Her emotional beats were palpable, and her skills were on display numerous times, such as during Ti Moune’s pivotal dance scene.

Corey Stefon Johnson joins Snowden as her love interest, Daniel. His soft and soaring voice contrasts perfectly with his complicated character arc. Nahla Fernelius played Ti Moune’s young counterpart, Little Girl, with an adorable presence and voice.

Oba Bonner as Tonton and Koryn Sobel as Mama are excellent choices for Ti Moune’s parents. Their emotion and connection with their young daughter felt incredibly lived in. I had the privilege to hear Sobel’s powerful vocals during “Pray,” and was blown away by her talent.

The gods were perfect in their respective roles. Yahosh Bonner astounded as the powerful Agwe, Brittany Andam was a motherly and lovely Asaka, Anya Sulimoni played a lovely Erzulie, and Beatriz Melo was a sly and sneaky Papa Ge. Their energy together was electric. Each of their respective songs and moments to shine were highlights of the evening, bringing the talented cast to the forefront of the story.

The ensemble was the heart of the production. Their singing, dancing and acting skills were all top-notch. Whenever they came out for a big ensemble number or even supported in the background, I was astounded. I hated looking away for a moment, even to take notes.

Carter Thompson’s set design was one of the best elements. His unique island set allowed for characters to fully merge with the story they tell. I loved seeing little easter eggs, such as the peasants working in the sand or mothers washing clothes in the pool. The practicality of it all was astonishing, and genuinely the best set I’ve seen at The Ruth.

Costume design by Candice Nielsen was also a standout. She created multiple beautiful looks for every character. Ti Moune’s ball gown was a highlight, magically transforming into rags before the audience’s eyes. Her work on the gods’ costumes was also exceptional. The detail on Papa Ge’s jacket, hat and jewelry had me mesmerized.

Tying it all up, choreographer Izzy Arrieta brought a unique vision to this piece. It seems he understood the story at its core and made choreography to match.

 “Once On This Island” is a beautiful piece about joy and what it means to tell stories. As the final song says, “Our lives become the stories we weave.” Take your family, kids, partner or friends to this show. But most importantly, get yourself there to witness this enchanting tale you may never see again.

“Once On This Island” runs at The Ruth until July 3 with nightly performances and select matinees. For tickets or more information, visit www.theruth.org. 

This reviewer saw the show with its Monday/Wednesday/Friday cast, including a substitution from the Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday cast for the role of Daniel.

Madelyn Wilson | American Fork Citizen

Brandon Sanderson will join fellow award-winning fantasy author Ryan Cahill for a discussion on Cahill’s upcoming novella, “The Fall: The Bound and The Broken Novella,” at the Lehi High School auditorium on June 25.

Poppy Books & Gifts of Spanish Fork will host the event, which includes a signing with Cahill. Poppy Books notes in the event page that Sanderson will not sign at the event, but a limited number of signed Sanderson novels will be available for purchase.

“Poppy Books & Gifts is so excited to bring Ryan Cahill to the states for his one and only event celebrating the release of ‘The Fall’! Local author (and global superstar) Brandon Sanderson will be joining Ryan for a night of epic proportions! We are ecstatic that Ryan chose Utah for this event, and hope to see you there,” shared Poppy Books co-owner Whitney Gallegos.

“The Fall” is set in the world of The Bound and The Broken series and takes place 400 years before the events of “Of Blood and Fire,” book one in Cahill’s epic fantasy series.

The book blurb begins, “The City of Ilnaen is on fire. Dragons fill the skies. Traitors fill the streets. Across millennia, The Order have stood as the guardians of the mortal realm. But four hundred years before Calen Bryer picked up a sword, a red moon rose over the continent of Epheria and the world changed forever.”

According to Cahill’s Instagram post about the event, “This will be a singular event, a moment that I know is going to live rent-free in my head for eternity. (There will also be some special merch).”

Tickets are available starting at $25.88 for admission, including a hardcover copy of “The Fall,” with the option to purchase a ticket for admission and a collector’s edition of the novella for $33.77. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit poppybookssf.com/events-1/author-event-ryan-cahill-brandon-sanderson.