In my opinion community theater is an absolute treasure. I love pretty much all theater. However, there is something about people joining forces, not making a dime, just for the love of the art. It gives me great joy.
It is not just the actors. The folks building sets, designing lights, working sound, directing and helping backstage are all dedicated to the sport of theater. All these people give countless hours of their time to make something special and memorable. It really is a labor of love.
I recently saw a delightful play in Morehead, Kentucky called Visiting Mr. Green. One of my besties directed it and another dear friend was one of the stars of the show. It was incredible. Not only was it highly entertaining, but it addressed some serious social issues. I think this is a wonderful feat for a small theater in Eastern Kentucky.
My friend told me I would laugh, cry and be angry during the show. He was not kidding. I experienced all the emotions and loved every second. It was a beautiful play and expertly done.
To that point, another bestie made a two-and-a-half-hour drive to see the play with me. At intermission she asked if my friend acting was a professional because he was so good. Nope. Now, he has done a lot of community theater, but to the best of my knowledge, he has never been compensated for his talents—which are immense. It should be noted that he is also a playwright and an amazing director.
I don’t think a lot of people expect much from community theater, but I would put my peeps at the Morehead Theatre Guild up against a lot of professionals. They are as good as any community theater I have ever enjoyed.
This organization has been doing productions since 1990. They usually do three shows a year. There are people involved with the Guild today who were around for the very first production. I have seen 21 of their plays and loved each and every one. The theater is an escape for me and has been since I was young. I never miss an opportunity to see a show. When we plan vacations, I always check for shows in the area—both professional and community theater.
My daughter was part of Visiting Mr. Green. She helped build the set and also worked the door at a couple of shows. Not much makes me happier than this. For her to share my love of theater and to work with some of my best friends makes my heart almost burst. Lord knows I have dragged that kid to plays since she was tiny. I’m so glad she appreciates the art and has an understanding of what it takes to make a show happen.
I cannot encourage people enough to support community theater. It is a gift from the universe and a ticket will probably cost you less than 20 bucks. Trust me. That is some of the best money you will ever spend.
Angela Traver
What is this blog about? Well, it's a general blog, but it is also a very specific blog. If you get that reference, you get a gold star! I have been a public relations professional and writer of press releases for more than 20 years—primarily in the booze biz. I decided to do some writing for fun and embrace the humor that gets me through most days. Hopefully it will make you chuckle—or at least smile. I’m a certified crazy magnet, and more than a little nutty myself, so buckle up. Also, I have two vices—profanity and red wine/whiskey. You’ve been warned. It should also be noted, that I’m a HUGE Bob & Sheri fan. I’ve been a listener for more than 20 years. This opportunity is a dream come true and it may have made me cry. That being said, I cry at everything. If you are into booze, dogs, food and/or knitting, hit me up on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter (although I’m terrible at Twitter and it scares me) @kyspiritsgal. You can also find all my previous blog posts at www.kyspiritsgal.com.
