Quote of the Day:  Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 people who menstruate, or nearly 200-million people worldwide. 

Women’s health concerns aren’t your usual subject for a musical, but maybe they should be. Creators of Endometriosis: The Musical, Kristin Stowell and Maria Bartholdi take a very serious, and surprisingly common, health issue and turn it into a humorous and heartfelt story about a young woman, Jane, who suffers from this condition. The show first appeared at the Minnesota Fringe Festival in 2022, to a tremendous audience response! I didn’t get a chance to see it then, but I did attend the read/sing through of it in the expanded version in the spring of 2023. It is now a full-length musical, well staged and acted, and playing at Theatre in the Round Players in Minneapolis, MN through July 13, 2025.

Abby Holstrom as Jane, and cast of Endometriosis: The Musical at Theatre in the Round Players, thru 7/13/25. Photo: Tom Taintor

Abby Holstrom, who originated the role is 2022, is back as Jane, a young woman who is trying to gain momentum in the business world. Her debilitating condition gets in the way. As she suffers through it month after month, with little to no relief, we watch her go from doctor to doctor only to be told that “it’s not that bad.” Her own family mocks her discomfort. Finally, someone leads her to a doctor who actually listens and helps her find ways to improve her quality of life.

For the most part, Endometriosis, keeps a campy tone to the show. It starts off with Jane’s co-worker Brad (Christopher Knutson) being mauled by a bear on his morning jog. The theme of “this could happen to anyone” is introduced. Christopher also plays Jane’s roommate who is sympathetic to her condition, and other roles. Most actors play various roles. Tara Borman is excellent as Jane’s friend and co-worker Miranda. She has great comedic timing and a wonderful singing voice. Aly O’Keefe is fantastic as Jane’s mother, and others. We especially liked her portrayal of the mother. At first, she’s awkward about discussing Jane’s “delicate” issue, then gets bolder in her language, bringing out much humor, and some much needed tender moments of understanding with her daughter. Her gorgeous vocals commanded the stage!

Endometriosis: The Musical at Theatre in the Round Players, thru 7/13/25. Photo: Tom Taintor

Jack Bonko has several humorous roles, particularly funny are his portrayal of Derek and the Uterus (yes, folks, they have a uterus dancing on stage!). Kate Cosgrove give the right amount of humor and crankiness in the portrayal of her characters. Nora Sonneborn is wonderful as Gina and the Endo Expert who finally helps Jane. Jack Strub is over-the-top funny in most of his roles. Although, the Elvis Doctor is a bit cringy!! 

Jane and her family out to dinner in Endometriosis: The Musical at Theatre in the Round Players, thru 7/13/25. Photo: Tom Taintor

The director Shanan Custer brings out all the humor in this show, as well as the touching moments that deal with the reality of Jane’s condition and her relationships and work struggles that ensue. It is a nice blend of humor and seriousness. Sadie Ward did a great job designing set for this unique theater. It is truly in the round, so you have to be creative with set which has “backdrop” on the side panels and many set pieces that move in and out for various scenes. Mark Webb designed the lighting which also aids in focus and setting. Kristin Smith did the sound design. The costumes, by Ryan McCanna, are of similar color – shades of purple – for most of the cast, except for a few specific scenes, and a cute black pants and green top to make Jane stand out. Jean Orbison Van Heel directs the live band, who do a wonderful job!

You can see this creative new musical at Theatre in the Round Players through July 13, 2025.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Do you know anyone with a chronic illness?