Kasson-Mantorville sophomore directs ‘Whole Latte Love’ at Mantorville Theater

At just 15 years old, Cooper Worden, a sophomore at Kasson-Mantorville High School, has stepped into the spotlight as a director at the Mantorville Theater Company.
This summer, Worden led the production of “Whole Latte Love,” a comedic play set in a struggling coffee shop, bringing charm, humor and community spirit to the historic Mantorville Opera House.
“The set description really caught my eye,” Worden said. “I needed something with a stationary set, and a coffee shop was ideal. Customers coming and going gave us great opportunities for fun interactions. But what really sold me was the script’s charm. The jokes were genuinely funny, and the characters had so much personality.”
Worden’s journey with the Mantorville Theater began with a summer melodrama titled “The Grapes of Woe or No Wining.”
“I loved the building and the community,” he said. “When I heard the previous student director wasn’t returning, I asked around. After some board meetings and conversations with community members, I found myself directing this show.”
The production process came with its share of challenges. Worden faced four recasts due to unexpected dropouts, a tight set-building timeline, and the complex task of managing a cast that included both peers and adults.
“Being in an authority role around people who are older or close friends was definitely jarring,” he said. “But I learned a lot about leadership and communication.”
Despite the hurdles, Worden found the experience deeply rewarding. “Seeing the set and the show come together on opening night was magical. It was something I had imagined for so long, and to see it realized was incredible. Of course, I couldn’t have done it without the amazing team around me.”
The cast delivered standout performances, with several scenes earning special praise. Myles Hall’s portrayal of Thomas, despite missing a week of rehearsal, came together beautifully. Deker Knudson’s transformation from uptight landlord Mitchell to a coffee-fueled childlike whirlwind had audiences in stitches. Ruby Bell and Madysen Nelson, playing elderly women Edith and Vivian, impressed with their comedic timing and physicality.
“The background activity in the coffee shop scenes gave the whole production a sense of life,” Worden said. “I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out.”
The community response was overwhelmingly positive. “People came up to me days after the show to say how much they enjoyed it,” Worden said. “It really showed me how powerful theater can be in bringing people together.”
Directing “Whole Latte Love” has also shaped Worden’s future aspirations. “It’s given me a new perspective on storytelling and teamwork. I’m not sure if directing is my path, but I know I enjoy leadership roles. Maybe something similar in music.”
As for what’s next, Worden is open to possibilities. “I’d love to direct a larger-scale production with emotional depth, maybe something like ‘Mamma Mia.’ But for now, another melodrama with the Mantorville Theater Company sounds like a lot of fun. Especially if it’s locally written and includes music.”
Worden expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity and the people who made it possible. “I’ll never forget ‘Whole Latte Love.’ It was an unforgettable experience.”