About Us

The Idea:

The Comfort Theatre Company is Kaija and Brian Bonde's new and exciting theater concept. From acting to directing to teaching to producing to marketing, we have been involved in successful theater ventures for over 20 years. The Comfort Theatre Company is committed to bringing quality musical theater to every corner of the region.

The Comfort Theatre Company grew out of the idea that we could produce high quality musical theater experiences almost anywhere. In short, we make musical theater more accessible to the citizens of rural areas, while never compromising artistic quality. That is our goal.

The Shows:

"East of Westreville"

This original musical is an ever-changing collection of Americana roots music: bluegrass, blues, folk, and country music--a country blues to bluegrass road trip… with a few stops along the way!

This talented group featuring Kaija Bonde (Always…Patsy Cline), Boyd Bristow (Acoustic Christmas), Brian Bonde (The Cardigans), with Al Slaathaug on string bass, intertwines good "old-timey" music with homespun humor, and an occasional special guest.

"Of Thee I Swing"

This musical review is an original work that recreates a late night cabaret show at a New York Broadway hotel during its heyday in the thirties and forties. It showcases unique arrangements of popular songs of World War I, The Depression Era, and World War II.

The show features Kaija Bonde with able hands of Gene McGowan on piano. Gene was the brilliant leader of the United States Navy Band choral group, the Sea Chanters for several years. He is well known in the area for his piano virtuosity. The full Gene McGowan Jazz Trio, adding bass and percussion, can also support the show. We are considering recording a soundtrack and doing a larger ensemble version as well.

“Always… Patsy Cline”

This musical is the story of one woman's introduction to Patsy Cline's music and subsequent introduction to Patsy herself. Louise, Patsy Cline's number one fan, is ecstatic when she meets her idol before a concert in Houston. Between Cline's music and Louise's narrative, a remarkable

"Always..." continues to play to packed houses across the region and has received rave reviews. The Sioux Falls Argus Leader called it “an uncanny, spine-tingling performance,” and awarded the show as the Best Musical of the year, Kaija Bonde as Best Actress!

The Future:

The Comfort Theatre Company will continue to be a source of affordable touring musical theater in the north central United States. Our future goal, rather than produce a single “show,” is to offer a “menu of musicals," bringing the American art of musical theatre to all of the region—rural and urban areas alike.

As the company and the audiences grow, we envision producing other standard heart-warming and toe-tapping musicals, fulfilling our goal to produce affordable, enjoyable musical theatre. Our experience is a testament to the importance of bringing high quality, enjoyable theatre to those who otherwise might not have the opportunity to experience it. We are eager to continue to share our dream and love of performing with your audience!

"As an actor, I try to choose something that I believe in, that isn't a lie -- something that is life-affirming, that is morally worthwhile, that is not mind-rotting or spiritually diminishing ... This is how I contribute."
--Kevin Kline

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East of Westreville Show Schedule