Community Corner

Tragedy Hits Home in Minnetonka

Minnetonka's Katy Knutson dies suddenly over the weekend.

Kathryn Sayre Knutson, 22, a 2006 graduate and daughter of the 's Artistic Director, Kent Knutson, has died. According to Minneapolis Police, responding officers found Knutson deceased at a residence in Minneapolis on Sunday. More details have not been released however a source close to the family described the death as "accidental."

Knutson, known as Katy, was well known in the Minnetonka community because of her involvement with the . At the time of her death, Knutson had been working as an assistant director, leading the young Oompa-Loompa cast, in their current production of . Her brother, Rob is currently playing the role of "Grandpa Joe" in the production.

While a student at Minnetonka High School, she earned the honor of Minnesota State Scholar in Theatre and was part of the Spotlight Music Award Winning production of Once On This Island in addition to playing major roles in Les Miserable, Little Shop of Horrors, Scrooge, Wizard of Oz, Grease and The Drowsey Chaperone Her father was also a teacher at from 2002-2009.

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Knutson had been a student at Viterbo University in LaCrosse, Wis., and had recently gotten engaged to Gregory Strotbeck.

On her broadwayspace.com profile, Knutson wrote about herself, "Musical theater has always been a huge part of my life! My dad is a director my mom his choreographer and my only brother a writer and actor. I find nothing more challenging and rewarding then putting on a show. I am currently persueing [sic] my BFA in musical theater and am determined to make my dreams come true." 

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Paula Holmberg had Knutson as a student in choir for three years at Minnetonka High School. Today, Holmberg only had glowing reviews of the young singer, "The audience member had the feeling that they were special, and that there was nothing that she would rather be doing, than sharing generously, whatever piece was being sung." 

On her blog, Knutson's friend from Minnetonka High School, Kate Appleby, remembered Knutson fondly, "She was always smiling and could always light up a room. She will be dearly missed."

In an email sent out to all Minnetonka School staff yesterday, Minnetonka Schools spokesperson, Janet Swiecichowski wrote, "The Minnetonka Theatre family touches hundreds of kids, of all ages and grades, and thousands of patrons who have enjoyed Katy's beauty, energy and talent on stage. Teachers at all levels who may have students involved in theatre, please be extra alert as to how students are handling this difficult news. We are informing parents of the Willy Wonka cast, so that parents can talk with younger children in an age-appropriate manner about this sad news."

A funeral for Knutson will be held on Thursday at 11 a.m., at St. Hubert Catholic Church in Chanhassen. A viewing will precede the funeral. 


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