Charlotte’s Web

In the spring of 2025, Belle responded to an audition call for a local production of Hadestown. As a longtime fan of the show, she was immediately excited for the opportunity to be part of the production in any capacity. Jewel Box Children's Theater cast her as a Worker and Dance Captain, and it quickly became one of her favorite theatrical experiences. Not only did she get to perform in a show she loved, but she also had the opportunity to work with an incredible new theatre company. Little did she know that the relationships she built at Jewel Box would lead to even more opportunities. Inspired by the collaborative and supportive environment that owners Andy and Anna-Kate had created, Belle expressed her interest in working with them again whenever the opportunity arose.

In the spring of 2026, Jewel Box decided to produce a children's production of Charlotte's Web, performing in nontraditional theatrical spaces such as Los Alamitos Ranch and the Bembridge House in Long Beach, California. Looking to make the production entirely child-led, the company asked Belle to direct the project. Having already directed several productions of her own, she was thrilled to partner with a company whose mission of creating equitable, accessible, and inclusive performing arts aligned so closely with the mission of Brunette Productions.

With the support of Jewel Box, a nonprofit children's theatre company, Belle got to work casting the show and rehearsing with a group of young performers, many of whom had never been in a production before. Each week challenged her to find creative ways to teach lines, blocking, and stage presence while making rehearsals engaging and fun for children who were just beginning their theatre journeys. The result was a beautiful production brought to life by emerging artists who were just discovering their creative voices. Many of the young actors told Belle they were inspired to continue pursuing theatre after the experience.

Performing on grassy fields in front of a real barn and on the grounds of the historic Bembridge House created a unique opportunity for young families to experience live theatre in welcoming, accessible settings that are rarely used for performances. Belle hopes the production not only inspired the young cast but also introduced new audiences to the magic of theatre, encouraging families who may never have attended a performance before to become lifelong supporters of the arts. Her partnership with Jewel Box meant the world to her, and she hopes to collaborate with the company again in the future. With such closely aligned philosophies, Belle believes Jewel Box Children's Theater and Brunette Productions share a commitment to making theatre more accessible, inclusive, and meaningful for everyone.