The Root Beer Lady | History Theatre

The Root Beer Lady

Written and Performed by Kim Schultz  
Originally directed by Addie Gorlin-Han
Remounted by Jess Yates 

January 25–February 23, 2025

A captivating portrait of a woman in the wilderness.

Schultz delivers a bravura performance that makes Molter a fascinating companion.

A tale of survival in harsh conditions, the embrace of a decidedly unconventional lifestyle, and a love story between a woman and a place.

Sound design by Katherine Horowitz evocatively portrays the movement of nature around her, most humorously when birds fly into Dorothy's hair.
The Root Beer Lady tells the story of the indomitable Dorothy Molter, the last legal non-indigenous resident of the Boundary Waters. The story reflects the beauty and hardships of Molter’s solitary yet satisfying life beginning in 1934. The play, funny and passionate, explores her independence, fortitude, and love of nature. Molter pushes back against the premise that her time in the North Woods made her the  “Loneliest Woman in America,” as the  Saturday Evening Post  claimed in 1952. Back by popular demand, Dorothy’s story will delight all, young and old.

“...a warm, enjoyable love letter to the Boundary Waters.”  - Pioneer Press

Reviews are in!

Learn more about the show

Afterthoughts

Get closer to the story on stage with the cast, creative team and special guests following each Sunday matinee. Free to ticketed patrons. 

February 9, 16, 23
Kim Schultz, The Root Beer Lady creative team

Performance Calendar

Ticket pricing

For more information, visit
Ticket Information. 

  • Adults/Seniors: $25-69
  • Students: $15
  • Balcony Seating: There are 15 steps to balcony seating. No elevator is available. If this is a concern for you or your party, please contact the box office at 651-292-4323. 

Playbill

  • Click here to view The Root Beer Lady playbill. 

BWCA Photo Album

Thanks to those submitting photos and sharing their experiences with the Boundary Waters Canoe Wilderness (BWCAW). 

To view our photo albums, click the links below. Enjoy!

Playing now through February 23!

The show length is 90 minutes with no intermission.

Cast

Dorothy Molter: Kim Schultz*
Understudy: Jen Maren*

Creative team

Playwright: Kim Schultz* 
Director: Jess Yates
Original Direction: Addie Gorlin-Han 
Scenic Designer: Chelsea M Warren#
Props Designer: Abbee Warmboe
Costume Designer: Sarah Bahr#
Lighting Designer: Chris Johnson
Sound Designer and Composer: Katharine Horowitz
Recorded Music: Joe Cruz
Video Designer: Leslie Ritenour
Assistant Stage Manager: Gianna Haseman
Stage Manager: Lee Johnson*
Technical Director: Gunther Gullickson 
Associate Technical Director: Evan Sima 
Master Electrician: Nick Walberg 
Costume Assistant: Meghan Kent

* Member AEA
# Member USA 829