MANKATO — The part of the William Shakespeare quote that everyone knows — and from which the Mankato community theater drew its name — is, “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.”
The next lines contain this quote, however: “And one man in his time plays many parts.”
For the Merely Players Community Theatre, that man is Jonathan Brandt. His next “part” is artistic director.
Brandt has been a ubiquitous stage presence the last 18 months or so, appearing not only in Merely Players productions but Minnesota State University and Social Justice Theater at Centenary United Methodist Church as well. As such, he has served as mentor and sage to younger, less experienced actors.
When the artistic director role was advertised, he said in an interview last month, he decided to apply. And as with so many other recent auditions, he got the part.
“I’m thrilled to step into this role and help shape the next chapter of Merely Players,” stated Brandt, 60, in a news release. He earned a bachelor of arts in theater arts and a master’s degree in technology leadership from Brown University.
Other experience includes several facets of theater administration in New York City and standup comedy. Professionally, he is an IT project manager; personally, he enjoys exploring history, music, chess and debunking fascist theocracy, according to the release.
“Theatre has the power to challenge, inspire, and connect us — and I’m excited to work alongside this vibrant community to bring bold, imaginative stories to life,” he said. His first duties include preparing for the 2025-26 season, curating the 2026-27 season and building community partnerships.
Brandt succeeds most recent artistic directors Zach B. Sonnek and Maggie Maes.
Murphy Grotewold, president of the Merely Players board, expressed the organization’s enthusiasm about the appointment.
“We are so excited to have Jonathan in this position. He brings a wealth of creative energy, thoughtful leadership and fresh ideas to Merely Players. We can’t wait to see where he helps lead us next,” Grotewold said.
The already announced 2025-26 season includes “Anne of Green Gables: The Musical” in October, “Fruitcakes” in December, “Once Upon A Mattress” in February-March and “Clue” in April-May.
At Merely Players, Brandt — known as JB — appeared in “Treasure Island,” “Miracle on 34th Street” and “And Then There Were None.” At MSU, he appeared in “The Winter’s Tale” and this summer’s “Escape to Margaritaville.” For Social Justice Theater, he had roles in “The Thanksgiving Play” and “Birthday Candles.”
In addition, he is in rehearsals for “The Music Man,” with performances later this month at New Ulm’s State Street Theatre. His role as a member of the school board/barbershop quartet sets the stage for creating harmony at the 43-year-old community theater started by Mankato teacher Gretchen Etzell.