Academy Backstage: Behind The Scenes
By: Ayesha Mansur Gonsalves [Kawartha Lakes Weekly Feature]
It’s an exciting time at the theatre, with play development and productions on the horizon! As our team gets ready to bring you CLUE, this October, we decided to ask some of our theatre committee and Clue team members to chat about how they got started in theatre, and what it takes to put on a show.
What was your first experience being involved in a theatrical production?
My first role was in 2004 as part of the costume team for Annie. My daughter was cast as one of the orphans, and my mother, Carolyn Bergin, and I created the orphan costumes together. I continued helping with the costume teams for Beauty and the Beast and Mary Poppins, eventually stepping into the lead role in 2009 for High School Musical and again in 2010 for High School Musical 2. Since then, I’ve served as the costume manager for the fall musical each year. What makes this role especially meaningful to me is the time I spend with my mother designing and organizing costumes before the production, as well as the time I share backstage with the children during the show.
- Jen Simpson, Clue Costume Designer
My first role as an actor was a cameo role in a community musical in Pembroke Ont. Opening night my nerves made me feel terrified, but the rest of the run went well. I was hooked! I continued in community theatre with roles as a dancer, backstage, supporting and leads, before becoming a professional film and stage actor in 2014.
- Jennifer Vallance, Theatre Committee member
What is the biggest theatrical ‘mishap’ (either onstage or off) you’ve experienced, and what did you learn from it?
I was the lead in a Pantomime and during a quick-change moment, I couldn't find my pants. They were not in my dressing room. Gone. So....I had to go on stage without pants. The show must go on!
- Tom Collver, Theatre Committee member
What is something you wish people knew about theatre production, that often goes unnoticed?
Whether on stage or behind the scenes, it is so rewarding. We have so many talented people involved, each with something important to contribute. It’s a group of community minded, passionate people working together to provide a few hours of amazing entertainment.
- Janine Mitchell, Clue Stage Manager
Every person involved, from planning to taking down the last set walls after the run, leaves with a sense of accomplishment. Connections made during shows can last a lifetime, and we have the opportunity to discover just what we’re made of.
- Jennifer Vallance
The sheer amount of work and money that is needed to make these productions possible. It requires an immense amount of collaboration, communication, planning, and creative vision to make it happen. Even for a small community production, the financial commitment is huge and carries a lot of risk. Entertainment ain't cheap, so make sure you get out and support these productions! They are a gift.
- Tom Collver
