I grew up back in the day when the Church was still producing road shows and stage plays (yes, that does date me). As a ten-year-old, I was cast as the doctor’s daughter in our stake’s rendition of Carol Lynn Pearson’s The Order Is Love, and I got to be onstage for every large group musical number. I had no lines and they could just as easily have done without me, but that didn’t matter—I was thrilled to be involved.
That’s when I was first bitten by the theater bug, but I wouldn’t get another chance to perform until years later when my family and I moved to our current home in Montpelier, Idaho. On a whim, I auditioned for The Music Man and was cast as Alma Hix, a principal pick-a-little lady. My two sons joined me—Benjamin as Marcellus Washburn, and Joseph as the sheriff. We had such a great experience during that production. I’m now volunteering as the chair of the Bear Lake Arts Council and have participated in several more plays with my sons. We were even joined once by my husband, who played Dr. Einstein in our performance of Arsenic and Old Lace.
I participate in the theater not only because it’s super fun and it gives me a chance to share something special with my family, but also because I believe in the arts. Things that are beautiful and uplifting feed our souls, and the theater reaches us through all the senses. Whether it’s a huge Broadway production with famous actors or a humble community endeavor operating on a shoestring budget, there’s something about the theater that’s simply magical.
Every community program depends on the involvement of the locals to stay afloat, and a theater program is no different. Through my participation with the Bear Lake Arts Council, I’ve seen how an enthusiastic audience can make all the difference. Here are some ways you can support the theater in your own community and help keep the magic alive.
Audition
Maybe you’ve had a lot of stage experience, or maybe you don’t feel as though you’re talentedenough to perform, but regardless of your skills, come on down and participate Maybe you’ve had a lot of stage experience, or maybe you don’t feel as though you’re talented. It’s worth the investment of your time, and if you’re new to the stage, the director will work with you until you’re confident in what you’re doing. Being in a play is an experience like no other—you will have opportunities to bond with your fellow actors and make friends for life, and that’s worth the time spent.
Donate
Many community theaters are nonprofit organizations or operate on a small budget. Every little bit matters, and that donation is tax deductible!
Come See the Show
The ticket you purchase will help fund the next production. Plus, it’s absolutely thrilling for the cast to look down from the stage and see rows and rows of friendly faces. Empty chairs have quite the opposite effect.
Be an Active Audience
Laugh at the funny parts, cheer at the victories, and clap for the songs. It gives the actors extra adrenaline and makes the performance even better. I’ve experienced both sides of the coin—performing for a quiet audience and performing for an interactive audience—and the difference is astonishing. Show the actors your appreciation for their hard work!
Spread the Word
Tell your friends and neighbors to come see the play too. The best advertising is word of mouth, after all. Even if circumstances prevent you from attending yourself, you can help ensure that everyone knows it’s taking place.
Give Feedback
Let the theater program know how much you appreciated their hard work and dedication. If you feel the production could have been improved, tell the director and offer concrete and supportive ideas. Keep in mind that in most cases, the crew and cast are volunteers who have donated their time and talents to the community.
Become a Volunteer Yourself
There are many ways to get involved, even if you have no desire to act. You can volunteer to help build sets, sew costumes, do hair and makeup, bake concession items, take tickets, run the concession booth, or clean up the auditorium after the audience leaves. A successful theater experience is made up of many moving parts, and you can lend a hand in many different ways.
No matter which of these options you choose—or perhaps you’ll find a way to help that’s not included on this list—your involvement is appreciated, and it’s invaluable. It does come with a caution, though: you might get bitten by the theater bug too!