From April 21 through June 14, audiences at the Children’s Theatre Company in Minneapolis are stepping into the timeless story of The Wizard of Oz. While the production features a talented cast from across the region, two performers bring a special sense of hometown pride for Eagan residents.
Aniya Bostick, a senior at Apple Valley High School, shares the role of Dorothy in this highly anticipated production. Evie Blake, a sophomore at Eagan High School, joins the cast as a student understudy. Though their roles differ, both young performers are embracing the experience with enthusiasm and a deep love for the stage.
A Passion for Performance Arts
For Aniya, music has always been part of her life. She recalls needing a song to fall asleep as a child, a memory that now feels like an early sign of what was to come. She began performing just four years ago after landing a supporting role in her high school’s production of Mamma Mia. That experience sparked something in her, and she has been building momentum ever since.
Her path took a major turn when she was selected for the Hennepin Arts Spotlight program, where she trained alongside other high school performers from across Minnesota. The program also took her to New York City, where she attended Broadway shows and workshops led by seasoned performers.
That experience led directly to her audition for The Wizard of Oz. After submitting a video and attending an in-person audition, she was offered the role of Dorothy on the spot.
“I didn’t believe it at first,” Aniya says. “I grew up watching The Wizard of Oz and The Wiz. To now be part of that story feels surreal.”
She shares the role with another high school senior, allowing both performers to take part in the demanding production schedule. Offstage, Aniya has already taken a bold step toward her future. She graduated early to focus on the show and will attend Berklee College of Music this fall, where she plans to study musical theater.
When asked what advice she would give to others, Aniya encourages young performers to observe, stay open to learning, and lean on the people who support them.
“I’ve grown up surrounded by strong women,” she says. “My family and friends have always been there. That support means everything.”
A Young Entry into Theater
Evie’s journey into theater started even earlier. In second grade, encouraged by her grandparents, she auditioned for a church production of Oliver and was cast in the ensemble. From that moment on, she was hooked.
Now a student understudy with the Children’s Theatre Company, Evie is learning a different side of performance. She covers two ensemble tracks, stepping in when needed and adapting quickly to each role. While the uncertainty can be challenging, she sees it as an opportunity to grow.
“You’re watching everything from the sidelines, and then suddenly you’re in it,” she says. “It teaches you to be ready for anything.”
Evie already has several performances scheduled and knows that the number could grow. Beyond the stage itself, she values the connections she is making with fellow cast members and the chance to be part of such a beloved story.
“It’s such a magical opportunity,” she says. “I’ve already made so many new friends.”
Looking ahead, Evie plans to continue pursuing theater. This summer, she will attend a pre-college musical theater program at Syracuse University, where she will train alongside other young performers.
Her advice to others is simple. “You have to go for it. You never know where it might lead.”
As The Wizard of Oz continues its run in Minneapolis, Aniya and Evie remind us that big dreams can start close to home. For these two Eagan students, the journey is just beginning.
“I’ve grown up surrounded by strong women,” she says. “My family and friends have always been there. That support means everything.”