Community theatre in 100 Mile House is going in new directions – and aspiring thespians are invited to take part.
Known for large and elaborate annual musical productions, the 100 Mile Performing Arts Society is looking at doing a variety of smaller plays in the future, like dramas and comedies.
To support that transition, the group has a couple of workshops planned.
The first is a “fire side chat” with local director Marie Hooper called “The A.B.C.’s of Directing.”
It’s open to anyone interested in directing, with previous experience or not.
The workshop is set for May 3 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the Cariboo Regional District Library (100 Mile House branch) on Birch Avenue.
“We’re needing some directors to come out and voice an interest in putting on some shows,” says 100 Mile Performing Arts Society president Renee LaRochelle. “We’ll work with them and mentor them if they’re new – or if they’re coming with their own team, that’s great as well.”
Cost is $15 and more information can be found on the group’s website, or email perf-arts @shaw.ca.
Next on the bill is “A Play in a Day,” slated for June 14 at Martin Exeter Hall.
The event is meant to be a fun, low pressure experience, says LaRochelle.
It’s open to anyone interested in directing, acting or technical aspects of putting on a production. The cost is $20 and includes dinner. Organizers are hoping for registrations before June 7.
Of the change in creative direction, LaRochelle says the group is excited about putting on different types of smaller energetic shows.
“We’re hoping to build up the capacity for theatre in 100 Mile House. Putting on a couple smaller ones keeps the season going. I think this will help build capacity from the actors and the people who enjoy the craft.”
The theatre group’s production of Office Hours, a comedic play written by Canadian playwright Norm Foster, was well-received by local audiences last October.
No future plays are scheduled at this time, but the group is hoping to put something on in the fall, and LaRochelle is inviting people to join in the fun.
“There’s a sense of accomplishment and pride when you’ve done something you’ve never done before. It’s a great feeling to be a part of team that puts on – in my opinion – high-quality, high-caliber theatre. This community is so rich with a variety of talent – from singing, acting and the technical end of things. Community theatre is alive and well here.”
