Page 45 - San Angelo

There is something for everyone. If you like to sing, we have musicals. The same with dancing - or if you enjoy directing - there is a place for you. If you are organized and good under pressure, we can use you backstage. If you have an eye for fnery and are good with a needle and thread, we need you in costumes. There is literally something for everyone to contribute in theatre, no matter your talents.”

Students range in age depending on the age of the characters in the musical to be performed. Annie Get Your Gun! cast children aged eight to eighteen. “These kids have so much talent,” explains Lorie Cantu, whose daughter plays the role of Jessie Oakley. “And a great thing is that Elena (Kent, director) doesn’t create divas. Whether you have the lead role or are a member of the chorus or a stagehand, your role and your job is just as important as anyone else’s. She teaches them a lot about responsibility and the importance of doing your part, no matter how small it seems.”

ACT stages at least six major productions in its theatre season every year, but the Youth Production is by far the most popular. It attracts volunteers and parents. It is a great education in theatre for the kids, but adults enjoy it as well. The main production traditionally runs for three weekends in February. When the musical closes, the students, adult volunteers, and some devoted parents strike the set. That involves breaking down the larger structures that were designed and built especially for this play. They store props, hang up costumes, and clean everything from the stage to the bathrooms. It is a gesture of respect and appreciation for the theatre and its staff.

Elena Kent explains it this way, “The kids learn that they are a part of something bigger than themselves. They are a company and they depend on one another. In the end, they learn that cooperation, respect, and patience help to create an excellent performance, and to their surprise, each of them walks away a changed person – changed for the better. Polishing their acting and theatre skills is just a bonus!”  SAL