This fall, the Childrens Theatre Company (CTC) in Minneapolis launches its new season with a fresh take on Treasure Island, a coming-of-age tale set on the high seas.But this isnt just another dusty revival thanks to the presence and performance of nonbinary actor Em Adam Rosenberg, the show finds new depth and humor.Rosenberg, who plays the delightfully over-the-top Squire Trelawney, makes their CTC debut with this production, but theyre no stranger to the Twin Cities stage. Rosenberg has become a standout presence in the Minnesota theatre scene with performances at the Guthrie, Theater Latt Da, and more.Reimagining the Aristocrat: A Queer Take on a Classic RoleSquire Trelawney may be traditionally portrayed as an affluent and awkward man of status, but Rosenberg isnt interested in playing him as a caricature. While the character remains a wealthy male aristocrat in this staging, Rosenberg brings nuance to the role infusing it with empathy, friendship, and quiet courage.I always go back to the question of what serves the story? and what do we need in todays world? and try to do right by that, they explain.Their gender identity, they note, doesnt always need to reshape the character overtly, but it often deepens the portrayal. The result? A version of Trelawney, they say, is reminiscent of echoes of Stede Bonnet, a gentleman pirate from Our Flag Means Death.Rosenberg is excited not just about the character but about performing for young audiences for the first time: They are the most truthful audience that exists. And for Rosenberg, that truth is part of what makes theatre unlike any other medium.Where you are separated by a screen when watching a film, you are able to truly experience the swashbuckling adventure before your eyes in this live theatrical production, they say. We are able to reimagine this classic story with the bodies and people that inhabit our city.Finding Freedom in Gender, Theatre, and PastaA self-proclaimed theatre nerd, Rosenbergs dream roles span from Sweeney Todd to The Great Comet of 1812, and even a double-cast Sunday in the Park with George where they alternate between George and Dot.As a nonbinary performer, theyre drawn to characters who reflect their expansive experience of gender layered, queer, and unapologetically complex.My gender is expansive in its masculinity and femininity, and sometimes is transcendental from the binary, they explain. Every so often, I get to play a nonbinary character, which makes me incredibly happy and like I can really be myself.And for someone who spends much of their time embodying other people, genders, and experiences, Rosenbergs most authentic sense of self lives in simple experiences like taking a walk, singing, or enjoying a bowl of pasta.And when discussing why theatre still matters in 2025? Rosenberg says it best, In many ways it matters now more than ever due to the interpersonal nature of theatre and our societal addiction to technology. Theatre is a way to show people that they are not alone.Treasure Island runs this season at the Childrens Theatre Company in Minneapolis, September 9-October 19, 2025. You can get your tickets for this show and others like Roald Dahls The Enormous Crocodile The Musical, Dr. Seusss How the Grinch Stole Christmas!, and The Wizard of Oz at childrenstheatre.org!To learn more about Em, check out emrosetheatre.com or follow them on Instagram.Source