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Show f Parent!, board members, cast approathc. members, and anyone who want to help out paint and build sets, create costumes, and handle lighting. two-hoThe ur rehearsals are puncd tuated with laughter and teasing. Actors, dozens of productions have in of whom performed many about talk share of news their families, jobs, distogether, cuss sports, and other bits of life outside of the show. That sense of community within the theater attracts many of the actors and volunteers to the long hours of labor. The people who have been my good friends have always been theater people," says Connie Peterson, 67, a retired teacher who has worked with the Theatre in the Grove company for 20 years. They are selfless and giving and some of the most interesting people." Friendships bridge generations. Boyd Lewis, 78, a retired manager who has acted in 67 good-nature- Grove productions, is called "Grandpa Boyd" by cast members who grew up acting with him in various shows. Workchildren is exhilarating with young adults and school-ag- e ing, Lewis says. "It helps to keep me young," he says. Such a diversity of ages, backgrounds, and experience levels keeps the community theater strong and the arts alive in Forest Grove. "Tlieater teaches tolerance for all kinds of people and all kinds of things," Brtgodoon acton nemtiie and take a bow for the curtain "You act like you are a professional but everybody supports you and helps mold you so that audiences get to see a high quality show," says Dennis Lining, 43, stage manager and lighting designer with Theatre in the Grove. Its just fun to be with other people creating something which you then present." Audiences feel that energy too, particularly with the close proximity to the actors in a small auditorium. They come to see the show, but also to watch their friends, family, and neighbors perform. Most nights Forest Groves auditorium, which seats about 200, is at least 90 percent full. Season ticket holders who dont miss a performance hold many of those seats. On show night, white runway lights blink along the marquee outside the renovated 1912 movie theater in the heart of downtown. Volunteers sell tickets from uccessful community dieaters are developed out of passion, as well as professionalism and planning. If 'f , want to start a theater In your town, you these suggestions from Julie Angelo, try executive director of the American Association of Community Theatre. box a office and, once inside, patrons sink into red vel- 2. Select a board. Seek community leaders to serve as a volunteer board. The board's role is to support the theater vet seats, every one with a good view of the stage. "There is a connection through fond raising, marketing, and management Board members dont necessarily have to be people with a drama background, but dedication is required. glass-window- Don Ccland, 47, a teacher who has acted in Theatre in the Grove productions for the last two says decades. Exposure to the g arts be it as a audience member or you feel with the actors on stage," says Lori Brosig, 44. You know these people, your kids go to school ticket-payin- the duction crew behind-the-scen- es caJL pro- instills a deeper appreciation and greater enthusiasm fur arts with these kids." Brosig took her family to its first community theater production a few Hark Martin,Mgtit operator, dims overall. For that reason, Theatre in the Grove aims to involve anyone who is interested. "We try to make the auditions welcoming so everyone has a chance," Van Dyke says. Amateur actors and occasionally professionals from Portland come just to play a particular part. Some, such as Van Dyke, have formal train- the house for dramatic effect months back. The performance ing in drama. Others are students, doctors, accountants, store owners, and mothers and fathers looking to rekindle their creative spirit. interest in Theatre in the Grove. "Its nice to have something like this in the area," she says. Peterson agrees. "With community theater, she says, "you can get a piece of culture and fun without ever leaving the neighborhood." with the actors Connecting from learn from other Beginners onstage guidance actors and the director. Rehearsals are a supportive environment where encouragement and enthusiasm are standard, and teamwork outweighs any individual star quality. prompted her daughter Katy, 9, to try out for the next show. Now, both Katy and Brosig s husband, Daryl, who writes computer programs by day, have roles in Charlotte's Web. Brosig watches most of the rehearsals. The entire family can be involved in the theater a benefit that fueled her Poll y Campbell is a freelance u riser from Beaverton. Ore. 1. Gauge the level of interest. Talk to ocher arts organizations In your community, visit with drama instructors at the local schools, talk to friends, neighbors, and community leaders to determine the level of support for live theater in your town. 3. Write your bylaws and mission statement Determine what you want to create, how it will operate, and the different roles and positions required to meet the demands of organizing and maintaining a community theater. 4. Solicit financial support. Meet with local business owners, civic groups, and ded- icated theater patrons. Ask for donations e financial contributions. Priand vate donations and ticket sales support most community theaters. long-rang- 5. Find a stage. A high school auditorium, old movie theater, or even a storefront can be adapted for acton and audiences. 6. Produce a show. See what happensThe first production is a great way to gauge community interest American Profile Page 7 |