An Interview with Caleb Buford

I always like to say that you have to do theatre at least once. I don’t think people recognize the time, drive, and creativity it takes to make a production happen until you’re behind the curtain. For actors, it’s the perfect escape from the real world and allows you to be aware of your body and emotions. For technical members of a production, it’s a great opportunity to learn in a collaborative environment like no other. Experience theatre from the stage, not just the audience. It’s an experience you’ll cherish forever.

How long have you been volunteering for Market House Theatre?

My first day walking in the stage door as a volunteer was May 26th, 2018. I was the tech crew for Sister Act, The Musical. I have been volunteering every year since. As of completing Rounding Third, I will have over 1,000 volunteer hours since my first show.

What are all the volunteer positions you’ve held at MHT? Do you have a favorite?

For the 11 shows I have been a part of, I’ve been a tech crew member, sound operator, stage manager, and scene extra. I’ve also had the opportunity to photograph a few shows like The Rainbow Fish, Making God Laugh, and Rounding Third. Oh, and I did an Instagram takeover for Charlotte’s Web! With every show I get to meet some incredible people, learn some life applicable skills, and grow as an individual. If I had to label a favorite, it would have to be stage managing Disney's Frozen Jr. The kids were so kind, professional, and worked so hard to make that show happen. Alison Shafer and Savannah Fallis also taught me a lot about what it takes to stage productions.

What made you begin volunteering with us?

It was my senior year of high school and I had just finished stage managing for McCracken County High School’s production of Hello, Dolly! My drama teacher, Mrs. Mary Bowden, was asking students if they were interested in working tech for Sister Act. I had never done theatre outside of high school - I had always loved coming to MHT on student night to see shows, but I never thought about being a part of the “magic.” I showed up for my first tech rehearsal and I have never looked back. The cast and crew feel like a big family. I still stay in contact with people from that production.

What has been your favorite show/event at MHT so far?

My favorite event that I did not work was Shakespeare in the Park’s As You Like It in July of 2019. I have always loved the idea of outdoor and location-based theatre. Shakespeare in the Park opened the door for Paducah to see the possibilities of theatre outside of four walls - you’re not bound to a box in front of organized seating, so the possibilities are endless. As You Like It used every corner of visible space. I would love to see/do another location-based show like it, especially in our COVID world. Do you have a favorite MHT memory? Something Dark will stay with me forever. Something Dark (now named Cries in the Night) was a world premiere show MHT produced to open their 56th season. I can’t describe to you how ecstatic I was when I was asked to work “Magic Crew” for Something Dark. The first night I went to rehearsals I got to watch the show. where the scenic team had built the set in the shop and the cast was rehearsing on the built set. They were running some tricks and I remember when the basement door slammed on it’s own, I verbally expressed, “Whoa.” Kathy Pingle, the director, looked over and said, “Cool, right?” Nothing but a few walls, windows, and some incredible magic - and I was floored. Seeing all of our work come to fruition on opening night was incredible. We got to shape the show, meet the playwright, and create a mystery magic show like no other. Now we have magic secrets and we'll take them to the grave.

What would you tell someone who is considering volunteering?

There are so many opportunities available! Every production needs a cast, tech crew, set, props, costumes, lighting, sound, etc. and every department needs help. Don’t be afraid to call the box office and say; “Hey, I really enjoy (fill in your interest), where can I help?” or “Hey, I want to learn more about (fill in topic), where can I volunteer to learn more?” If you don’t think you have the skills, there are people who can teach you! There is and will always be a place for you. The staff at Market House Theatre will embrace you and help you find your fit.

Tell us about you!

In 2020, I completed my Associates of Arts degree from WKCTC and I am now pursuing my Bachelors of Arts in Communication Studies with a minor in Management from Northern Kentucky University. I also plan to earn my masters in Business Administration. I earned my Eagle Scout award from the Boy Scouts of America in 2018 and I continue to invest in the program by coordinating an annual Merit Badge College at WKCTC. I have two years of technical theatre experience as the Assistant Production Manager at the Clemens Fine Arts Center, which is where I learned a lot of the skills I continue to use and practice at Market House Theatre. I love to teach others what I know! In the next 10 years - I would love to stage manage, company manage, or direct a regional production of a show. Theatre is where I want to be and to be a part of a regional production would be incredible, though one day, Broadway is the dream.