Life Comes Full Circle for Director Kelley Faulkner
How could a 12-year old girl living in New Jersey possibly realize where a gift of music might take her? “My aunt went to an off-Broadway production featuring the music of Kander and Ebb, and she brought me back a souvenir CD,” said Kelley Faulkner, director of The World Goes ‘Round, the opening production of Milwaukee Rep’s 2026/27 Season. “I played it non-stop and what I loved about it was that it included the hidden chestnuts that don’t get produced very often. That CD definitely helped to kindle my interest, and even passion, for musical theater.” As for the full circle moment, Kelley gets to direct a show featuring the very music she’s loved since childhood.
The Stackner Cabaret is the ideal setting for a high-energy musical revue that brings to life the legendary songs of John Kander and Fred Ebb, the iconic duo behind Chicago, Cabaret and Kiss of the Spider Woman. Featuring 36 unforgettable songs, five dynamic performers will deliver beloved favorites with heart- and show-stopping style.
Kelley began acting as a child, and pursued acting and directing through college. Once, while acting in a Stackner production, Kelley and the show’s director discussed in depth a particular aspect of the show. Sometime later, the director turned to her and said, “You know, you approach problem-solving like a director. You should consider directing here at Milwaukee Rep.” Since then Kelley has directed and choreographed My Way, Nuncrackers and The Last Five Years in the Stackner, as well as acted there, so she’s developed a familiarity with the venue and its creative potential.
Since mid-March, Kelley and her team of designers–which includes scenic, lighting and sound designers–have been meeting to bring her vision to life. In May, offers to the five actors will be made and in August rehearsals will begin. When Kelley begins the process of casting a show, she looks for actors who embody certain skills, “When I’m reading a script I picture certain multi-talented people, and in this show the actors must be dancers, singers and musicians. But even more importantly,” she added, “they must have the ability to tell a story and have undeniable charisma.”
The World Goes ‘Round opens with a preview on September 11, and runs through November 1.