Follow the adventures of Trixi and Bobby as they attempt to steal back the giant Thunderthump’s heart, in order to free a handful of captive children, who Thunderthump sees as nothing more than garnish for his next meal!

If you hid your heart, where would your love find it?

Under the guidance of Morris Ertman, the second- and third-year students of Rosebud School of the Arts have created a fantastical journey based on the whimsical story by renowned author George MacDonald. This collective creation promises to astound and thrill audiences.

This show presented a new challenge for Ertman - a group of student actors he has never worked with before. Ertman comments, “I didn't really know what to expect. They have surprised me with their enthusiasm, level of commitment, insight and more. I'm having a ball.”

Fearing the love of his wife, Thunderthump has hidden his heart somewhere in Giantland. Along their journey Trixi and Bobby meet a host of other characters that teach them about love. Through a story that may seem a simple fairy tale, the students of Rosebud School of the Arts will teach you to wear your heart on your sleeve, no matter how difficult it may seem.

For many of these students it has been a whirlwind experience. They have received the chance to collectively write their own script, to work closely together in a safe, professional environment, and to work with Rosebud Theatre Artistic Director for the first time.

At the same time, Ertman faced the challenge of being an instructor to the students, “I hope they learn what it means to be an actor, delivering a story that lives dynamically in moment to moment experience on stage. I hope they discover the magic of being outside oneself, yet absolutely connected to the soul of who they are as individuals. I hope they come away from this experience more in love with the theatre than they were before.

"I also hope they come to understand just how many parts make up the magic of the stage - the set, the lights, the costumes, the sound and more. I hope they rise to the challenge and they find joy in this amazing art form that will never diminish because performers and designers and writers and audiences are drawn to the ‘aliveness’ of the theatre.”

In addition to acting, RSA students are also responsible for key elements of production including costumes, set, lights and props.

The Giant’s Heart features:
Cassia Schramm
Natalie Blanchard
Heather Zacharias
Sienna Holden
Michael Bartz
Paul Zacharias
Shannon Klassen
Alysa van Haastert
Dan Derksen
Serena Snively

The creative team includes:
Director, Scenic Designer & Sound Designer - Morris Ertman
Lighting Designer & Stage Manager - Becky Halterman
Costume Designer - Ann Salmonson
Song Composer - Paul Zacharias
Song Arranger - Rachel Peacock

Here is one patron's response to the show:

"My wife and I have been coming to Rosebud since seeing THE KITE. I took my wife to that play as a trade off for allowing me to buy Stampeders’ seasons tickets. We ended up going to all of the plays that year and have been season ticket holders since. I was literally blown away with the quality and sincerity of the performances.

"Something special is going on at Rosebud. We were at THE GIANT'S HEART last Saturday. I was expecting a silly children’s play. Instead, I was deeply moved and walked out of there a better man. I actually identified with the male lark. Many times at Rosebud I have experienced this phenomenon of learning a life lesson.

"I just wanted to thank you for your life and for sharing your gifts with so many in such a quiet little corner of the world. I can foresee Rosebud carrying on for another twenty five years.

"P.S. Deb and I have already booked our “date nights” for 2009."

Best regards,
Peter Dunn
Irricana, AB