Rooted Tree Productions presents Disney’s Descendants the Musical under the joint direction of Anjali Engstrom & Dave Allison. Descendants is a contemporary Disney story that explores questions that our directors feel are universal. Do we do what we’re supposed to do, be who our parents/society expects us to be? Or, do we follow our hearts and find fulfillment in our own paths? All too often we pass judgments before we give others the chance to be themselves, labeling choices good or bad… much like the supposed ‘good’ Auradonians do. While you watch your wonderful young performers, ask yourself, “What path do you want them to follow?”
Anjali and Dave would like to extend a thank you to you, the families of Rooted Tree. It was a pleasure working with all of your children—they’ve made our summer extra special. We could not be more proud of all the work that they have accomplished. Thank you for trusting us to nurture your children’s artistry.
Anjali Engstrom is a rising sophomore at Syracuse University, studying recording and entertainment industries. She has been performing in musicals her whole life and is a songwriter and guitarist at school. She is a returning member of the Rooted Tree family, as she worked as the assistant vocal Director on the little mermaid during the summer of 2022.
Dave Allison is a recent graduate of Arcadia University where he earned his BFA in Acting. He has studied at Second City Training Center in Chicago, the Pig Iron School, Walnut Street Theatre & Wilma Theatre all here in Philadelphia. Currently, he teaches with Rooted Tree, Walnut Street Theatre, Philly Improv Theater, and ASAP Drama. You can see him perform monthly at PHIT.
