Debuting Artist: Libby Shelstad
Libby has joined the crew for the very first time with OpenStage this season!
Can you share a bit about your background and how you first became involved in theatre?
I grew up in a theater family in South Dakota. As an adult I worked in theater scenic and costume design and tech alongside my career as a Physical Therapist. I left healthcare and returned to school in 2023. I graduated from CSU in 2025 with a BA in Theater Costume Design/Tech and Set Design.
How did you first hear about OpenStage, and what drew you to work with us for this show?
I approached OpenStage after finishing school. I was first Involved as a scenic artist for The Mousetrap.
What is your specific role or area of expertise for this show, and what excites you the most about working on this production?
For The Merry Wives of Windsor, I am the props designer, and co-set designer with Ivan Andrade.
What is the most interesting or unique aspect of your work for this production?
For this show I am painting original backdrops for the set.
What makes The Merry Wives of Windsor a unique play to work on?
Working on an outdoor show comes with a unique set of challenges, as the set and props need to be completely stored between performances, and need to account for variables like wind, heat, or rain.
What is your favorite moment or scene in the show, and why does it stand out to you?
The scene where the villain tries to hide from the other men is hilarious.
Who is your favorite character in the show and why?
When Master Ford masquerades as Master Brooks, the persona he puts on is really funny.
What is your favorite play or musical?
That’s like choosing a favorite child…
What is one of your favorite designs or technical/show achievements from your career so far, and what made it special to you?
For scenic, I think my favorite was a two-story rotating set, that opened like a doll house for Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. For costumes, The Little Mermaid.
Is there a dream role or type of production you hope to work on in the future? What upcoming projects or roles are you excited about?
I’ve always wanted to build the “Audrey 2” plant for Little Shop of Horrors, but it’s never come up for me. I’m excited to be the head of the Props Department at the Black Hills Playhouse this summer.
What do you like to do in your free time when you’re not working on theatre projects?
I enjoy sewing, hiking and restoring vintage furniture.
Check out Libby’s work at Libbysdesigns.com
The Merry Wives of Windsor
By William Shakespeare
Directed by Kate Austin–Gröen
June 7, 2026 – July 11, 2026
The stumbling and bumbling Sir John Falstaff has a plan: Seduce two wealthy housewives and make off with their fortunes. But these “merry wives” are far more clever than he, and are ready to play some tricks of their own. Shakespeare’s satire pokes fun at the audacious and overly confident “Falstaffs” of the world, while celebrating brilliant women and the nuance of everyone in between. Walk in, bike in, or drive in for a magical night under the stars! Featuring nightly food trucks.
