March 19, 2026

MSM Musical Theatre will present Stephen Sondheim’s beloved musical, A Little Night Music, March 27-29 in Neidorff-Karpati Hall. We sat down with Kennedy Percival (BM ’27), who plays Mrs. Anderssen, to discuss her experience in the production, why this show is a must-see, and what drew her to attend MSM.

ABOUT KENNEDY

Kennedy Percival is a junior Musical Theatre major studying under the tutelage of Bob Stillman. Originally from Upland, California, some of Kennedy’s credits include Guys And Dolls (Sarah Brown), Grease (Sandy), and  The Addams Family (Wednesday). Her MSM MT productions include The Mystery of Edwin Drood (Ensemble/Durdles u/s), The Pajama Game (Mabel), Into The Woods (Assistant Director), Mudville (Sally/Josie u/s), and Freshman Pops.

Tell us about A Little Night Music! What is this show about?

Kennedy: A Little Night Music is a story of rekindled romance focusing on the glamorous actress Desirée Armfeldt. In the endless glow of a summer night, lovers waltz in and out of each other’s lives and arms during a weekend in the country that promises second chances, passion, and an awkward interaction or two. The audience is truly in for a treat with the amazing cast that I have the privilege of working with.

Why should people attend this performance?

Kennedy: This production of A Little Night Music has a completely fresh perspective while staying true to the heart and spirit of the musical. What makes this experience so special is the collaboration between our cast, creative team, and the unforgettable music that gives us so much information about the story. In our interpretation, we’re taking a new approach to the Quintet, who act as storytellers within the show, and they slowly start to become a part of the story. I’m especially excited for the audience to see my fellow cast mates shine!

Who are you playing in A Little Night Music? How how you stepped into this character’s shoes?

Kennedy: I have the honor of playing Mrs. Anderssen, a member of the Quintet! As the mezzo of the bunch, she is both feisty and graceful. It has been such an interesting role to waltz into, but I had a blast doing so! My fellow Quintet members and I worked with our wonderful director to ensure that every choice was intentional. These characters almost feel magical, and we wanted to honor that quality in how we approached them. We also spent many hours with our music director, refining the music so that we could honestly do these roles justice.

Why did you decide to attend MSM?

Kennedy: I knew right away that I wanted to attend MSM. This program was everything I was looking for and the opportunities that the school provided were better than I could have imagined! I came here with my mom after I got accepted and we both knew that MSM was where I was meant to be!

What is something significant that has inspired you in your journey as an artist?

Kennedy: The women in my life have inspired my journey and my art! My dreams would not be possible had it not been for the influence of the incredible ladies who gave me the tools and the courage to stand up for what I believe in. I am the artist I am today because of the love that my family and God gave me!

Describe A Little Night Music in three words!

Kennedy: Purposeful, Humorous, and Surprising!