The Root Beer Lady
Written and Performed by Kim Schultz
Originally directed by Addie Gorlin-Han
Remounted by Jess Yates
July 8–July 26, 2026
Kim Schultz returns to the History Theatre stage in her captivating one-woman play, "The Root Beer Lady." Schultz tells the story of the indomitable Dorothy Molter, the last legal non-indigenous resident of the Boundary Waters. The story reflects the beauty and hardships of Molter’s solitary yet satisfying life beginning in 1934. The play, funny and passionate, explores her independence, fortitude, and love of nature. Molter pushes back against the premise that her time in the North Woods made her the “Loneliest Woman in America,” as the Saturday Evening Post claimed in 1952. Back by popular demand, Dorothy’s story will delight all, young and old.
Reviews
- History Theatre heads to the woods for a visit with 'The Root Beer Lady' (Pioneer Press, 7/9/26)
- Beautifully captures the inspiring life and personality of Dorothy Molter (Cherry and Spoon, 2/3/25)
- Minnesotans love their Root Beer Lady (Stages of MN, 1/30/25)
- Root Beer Lady a captivating portrait of a woman of the wilderness (Pioneer Press, 1/26/25)
- Root Beer Lady will leave you impressed by the extraordinary gumption and grit of Dorothy Molter (Talkin' Broadway, 1/28/25)
- Dorothy Molters' Boundary Waters Legacy Returns to the Stage (KARE-11, 7/2/26)
- The story of Dorothy Molter (KSTP-TV, 2/20/25)
- Lunch with Friends: guest Kim Schultz (Friends of the Boundary Waters, 1/29/25)
- Experience Schultz animate this quintessential Minnesota character (Minnesota Star Tribune)
Performance Calendar
Afterthoughts - July 12
Get closer to the story on stage with these lively post-show talkback after every Sunday matinee. Free for ticketed patrons. Topics are subject to change.
Sunday, July 12
- Jess Edberg, Executive Director, The Dorothy Molter Museum
Ticket pricing
For more information, visit Ticket Information.
- Adults/Seniors: $25-55
- Students: $15
- Balcony Seating: There are 15 steps to balcony seating. No elevator is available. If this is a concern for you or your party, please contact the box office at 651-292-4323.
Playbill
- Click here to view.
BWCA Photo Album
Thanks to those submitting photos and sharing their experiences with the Boundary Waters Canoe Wilderness (BWCAW).
To view our photo albums, click the links below. Enjoy!







