Temecula Playwright to Premiere 'Curse of the Spinning Wheel'

For the past 16 years, Temecula resident Monica Iversen has directed, written and choreographed various theater productions throughout the Temecula Valley.

Now, she is preparing to premiere her very own, self-written, directed and choreographed musical on stage for the first time, called “Curse of the Spinning Wheel.”

The fairy tale-based play puts a twist on the classic "Sleeping Beauty" story, leaving the evil villain to take the lead in the comedic and musical production.

The production features a wide range of musical genres.

Iversen notes learning programs to create the instrumentals for the production as one of the most difficult parts of bringing "Curse of the Spinning Wheel" to life.

The Temecula resident of 17 years, who has also given private voice lessons from her home for the past 12 years, says she very rarely watches plays that are not musicals.

“I like the passion and what music adds to the show. I love dancing in shows. I think it really livens up a lot of shows rather than just a straight play,” said Iversen.

This is the second musical Iversen has brought to the stage in just two years. Last year, Iversen put on a production of a similarly themed fairy tale musical, called “Fairy Tales are Forever.”

Iversen said fairy tales have always been of interest to her, but wanted to put a spin on one of her favorites in “Curse of the Spinning Wheel.”

Between writing “Fairy Tales Are Forever” and directing and choreographing other plays, Iversen says “Curse of the Spinning Wheel” turned into a six-year process.

Although the comedic musical is finally being brought to life, Iversen said “Curse of the Spinning Wheel” will continue to be a work in progress.

In fact, she has material for the musical that won’t be used until the next production of it.

"Curse of the Spinning Wheel" will also be a fundraiser for the Vista Murrieta High School Performing Arts Center. The school's drama teacher, Cory Finch will be the technical director.

“After the ticket sales, they will get a portion of that put back into their program, which is great because I totally support the high school drama department. Sometimes they’re lacking in money and shows can get very, very very expensive," said Iversen.

Iversen hopes "Curse of the Spinning Wheel" will leave a lasting impression on the audience.

“I just hope [the audience] will be entertained and that they'll leave thinking about the show for a couple of weeks,” said Iverson.

 Show Dates:
Thursday, July 11 at 7 p.m.
Friday, July 12 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, July 13 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

All seats are $10. Each performance will be at the Vista Murrieta High School Performing Arts Center, located at 8251 Clinton Keith Rd., Murrieta, CA 92563.

For more information, please visit www.monicaiversen.com.