IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Jorge Pablos-Ramos
SS: What is your role in RENT?
I’m part of the ensemble
SS: Are you from Sarnia? If not, where did you come from and what brought you here?
I’m originally from Mexico and life brought me here to Sarnia I currently work full time at the Canadian Real Estate Association as an LMS Technical Administrator
SS: What are you enjoying most about the rehearsal process so far?
I’m enjoying the friendly atmosphere and how supportive the group is. All good vibes!
SS: What do you do outside theatre/work hours?
I teach dancing, including salsa and bachata (Latin rhythms). I play piano, guitar and I love singing. I am an engineer trapped in the arts world. I also enjoy competing nationally and internationally in dance contests.
Will Cramp
SS: What role are you playing in RENT?
I am playing the role of Roger.
RENTPART1
SS: Are you from Sarnia? If not, where did you come from and what brought you here?
BY RUTH FRANCOEUR
I am from London Ontario Currently I’m majoring in Musical Theatre at Sheridan College, working toward a Bachelor of Arts in Musical Theatre Performance
SS: What are you enjoying most about the rehearsal process so far?
Meeting new people and learning new skills have been my favourite parts
SS: What do you do outside theatre hours? Work? Hobbies?
I enjoy playing sports – rugby, volleyball, golf Also, I love movies and discussing film I have a dog, Sadie, who I love very much!
Conrad Reed
SS: What role are you playing in RENT?
As a member of the Ensemble, I get to play a couple of different roles, but both “Steve” and “The Man” are the only ones with names in the script Keep an eye out for them!
SS: Are you from Sarnia? If not, where did you come from and what brought you here?
I'm not even from Canada! I was raised just a few miles away from the Detroit Zoo in Hazel Park, Michigan. I moved to Port Huron around ten years ago for work and met my best friend and lovely wife shortly thereafter. We got engaged right after the Pandemic and I made the move across the river as soon as I could. I celebrated my first year as a Permanent Canadian Resident on March 16th, 2025!
SS: How did you hear about Theatre Sarnia? My in-laws regularly give tickets to shows at the Imperial Theatre as gifts, so I've had the pleasure of seeing some amazing performances The Producers, Evil Dead: The Musical, and Little Shop of Horrors just to name a few
SS: What are you enjoying most about the rehearsal process so far?
Just getting to share the experience with such talented individuals! The cast and crew are working so diligently to put on the best possible production and you can really feel the love everyone has for this show RENT holds a special palace in all our hearts and we all want to do it justice; everybody being on the same page for that is something special
SS: What do you do outside theatre hours? Work? Hobbies?
For my day job, I work in the Online Education Department at Lambton College I also work parttime at Blackburn Media and host bar trivia on the side. In my downtime, I play games in all forms: board, card, dice, and video. I'm a huge geek for Dungeons and Dragons! I'm also really enjoying exploring and experiencing what my new home province and Canadian life in general has to offer.
Sam McKibbin
SS: What role are you playing in RENT?
I am playing Angel!
SS: Are you from Sarnia? If not, where did you come from and what brought you here?
I am originally from Sarnia, born and raised, but left for school in 2018 I have been living in Toronto and London for the last few years I came back to Sarnia for work and noticed that Theatre Sarnia was putting on one of my favourite shows
SS: How did you hear about Theatre Sarnia?
I was in the Theatre Sarnia production of Annie in 2011 and continued to do productions with Theatre Sarnia, The Theatre Sarnia Youth Group (STAGE) and St Patrick's High School throughout my teenage years
SS: What are you enjoying most about the rehearsal process so far?
Meeting new people and reconnecting with old friends has been my favourite part! The rehearsal studios have always been a safe space for me and I am so happy to be back home with this amazing cast and creative team.
SS: What do you do outside theatre hours? Work? Hobbies?
Outside theatre hours I work as a Human Resource professional Outside of work I enjoy hiking, going to the gym, reading, bad reality TV and a lovely glass of Pinot Grigio with friends
Savannah Clarke-Paul
SS: What role are you playing in RENT?
I am playing Joanne Jefferson
SS: Are you from Sarnia? If not, where did you come from and what brought you here?
I was born and grew up in London, but moved here a little while ago when my dad became a firefighter
SS: What are you enjoying most about the rehearsal process so far?
I am enjoying meeting all of the friendly faces and idols that I grew up watching on stage in high school working with this team has been a fever dream!
SS: What do you do outside theatre hours? Work? Hobbies?
Outside of theatre, I start about half of Sarnia‘s days with a cup of coffee and a funny message on their cup when they see me! I also love nature and spirituality!
Kaz Deery
SS: What role are you playing in RENT?
I'm very proud to say that I'm a part of this iconic ensemble!
SS: Are you from Sarnia? If not, where did you come from and what brought you here?
Yes, I am from Sarnia! Born, raised, and lived here for all 18 years of my life
SS: How did you hear about Theatre Sarnia?
One of the biggest things that drew me to Theatre Sarnia was their production of Little Shop of Horrors Alongside RENT, that musical is definitely included in my top three When I saw that they were holding auditions for RENT, I knew I had to at least try to become a part of it Then to actually get casted! I’m ecstatic!
SS: What are you enjoying most about the rehearsal process so far?
Learning the craft! After our first read through, I was reminded of just how talented this entire cast is I realized that there was so much that I could learn from every person in the room. Right now, we're barely two months into rehearsals, and I'm already seeing an improvement in my voice and acting abilities!
SS: What do you do outside theatre hours? Work? Hobbies?
Currently, I work at VanGoozen Music as one of their teachers. I teach guitar, ukulele, and voice! Outside of that, I've been playing music all across LambtonCounty, mainly as part of an acoustic duo called "Forced Epiphany" I'm also interested in visual arts, guitar, math, science, and spending time with my loved ones
Theatre Sarnia members, it’s time to put your knowledge to the test in the most epic trivia event of the season on May 4! ��✨
Despite the date, this isn’t a Star Wars-themed trivia—expect a mix of general knowledge, pop culture, and maybe a surprise or two.
�� Broad, fun questions so everyone has a shot!
�� Hosted by the dynamic duo Brent Wilkinson & Rosaleen O’Mahony
�� FREE popcorn & drinks (alcoholic & non-alcoholic) for purchase
�� Costumes = BONUS POINTS!
�� Sunday, May 4
�� 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
�� On stage at Theatre Sarnia!
Teams of up to 6—so rally your crew, pick a captain, and come up with a legendary team name! Only ONE person needs to register your team.
�� Spots are LIMITED to 14 teams don’t miss out! Register now: Theatre Sarnia Trivia
RENT – HOW DO YOU MEASURE A YEAR IN THE LIFE?
BY DOUG HAKALA
There are stories from centuries past that are so enduring and so universal that they’re still part of modern culture.
In 1896, Giacomo Puccini introduced the opera La bohème to he world. Set in 1830’s Paris, the play revolves around the ves of eight characters. They are a collection of artists and hilosophers struggling with poverty and living rough in a city hat’s battling the scourge of tuberculosis Their fight to urvive and the tragedy of losing friends that they love ouched the audiences of the day and the popularity of the pera steadily grew. La bohème is a mainstay of the opera tage to this day.
In the early 1990’s the American composer and playwright Jonathan Larson adapted the La bohème story into a modern musical His story, RENT, is reset in late 1980’s New York City, and has characters mirroring those in the original opera Larson’s troupe of artists now include filmmakers, musicians, advocates, educators, and performers. RENT is set at a time where the stigma and discrimination toward people living with HIV/AIDS was integrated into policy and practice, access to medical treatment was not equitable, and the death rates were soaring The characters' story, their love for each other and the loss of the people they love resounded with audiences and RENT is still performed by both professionals and amateur theatre troupes around the world.
RENT premiered on Broadway in April of 1996 and ran for 12 years. It was nominated for 10 Tony awards and won 4, including best musical, and best musical score and book awards for Jonathan Larson RENT also won the Pulitzer Prize for drama in 1996 It also launched the careers of Idina Menzel, Jesse L Martin and Tay Diggs
Theatre Sarnia is proud to present RENT as our closing show for the 2024-2025 season Our amazing actors have been busy in rehearsal under the direction of Kate Hardy and the artistic team of Denise Chaulk, Val Schmidt, Bethany Tiegs and Liv Gogas. Stage Manager Emma Van Barneveld and her team will bring RENT to life on the massive set built by Bill Soulliere’s construction crew.
Please join us for what we are sure will be a moving and memorable theatre experience
Mom’s Gift Gala
By Ruth Francoeur
The Opening Night Gala for Mom’s Gift was a spectacular and memorable event!
Table toppers were created by the talented Amanda Jenkins and the set up done by our amazing CEC committee.
Family members and friends were welcomed to the Capitol Bar for refreshments and socializing
The food was catered by Coffee Culture and offered a great selection for all. The drink contest winner was Norm Francoeur His submission for Mom’s Kiss was a champagne cocktail with a maraschino cherry.
The Front of House décor was whimsical and many people took the opportunity to take their own photos.
Jay Peckham manned the S.O.D.A. (Sarnia Organ Donor Awareness) table in the lobby, where he connected with patrons, sharing his story and encouraging people to become organ donors
SET SAIL FOR A CAUSE: THEATRE SARNIA'S GALA FOR
H.O.P.E. ABOARD THE DUC D'ORLEANS II!
Attention Theatre Sarnia Members! Get ready for the event of the season! This year, Theatre Sarnia, in collaboration with the C E C and the Inn of the Good Shepherd, is thrilled to invite you to our end-of-season gala with a unique and scenic twist
Join us for the Gala for H.O.P.E. as we set sail on the beautiful and scenic St. Clair River aboard the fun filled Duc d'Orleans II on the evening of Friday, July 4th!
This isn't just your average gala; it's an opportunity to celebrate another fantastic season for Theatre Sarnia while also making a meaningful impact on our community This year ' s event is dedicated to raising vital funds for two causes close to our hearts: the Theatre Sarnia Youth Group and the Inn of the Good Shepherd.
We are especially proud to dedicate this fundraiser in loving memory of the late Anthony Fracalanza, a remarkable individual who dedicated his life to helping those in need Both the Theatre Sarnia Youth Group and the Inn of the Good Shepherd were passions of Anthony's, and this gala will serve as a tribute to his legacy by giving back to the organizations he so deeply cared about.
Prepare for an unforgettable evening filled with amazing local acts, all while enjoying the stunning views from the Duc d'Orleans II This is the perfect opportunity to mingle with fellow Theatre Sarnia members, celebrate our collective achievements, and contribute to two incredibly worthy causes
We will also be selling 50/50 tickets and will be receiving dry or canned good donations upon boarding.
July 4th, 2025 Boarding starts at 6:15 PM and the cruise departs at 7:00 PM. Wheelchairs (no power chairs) will be loaded at 6:00PM. 3 hour duration.
Duc d’Orleans II, boarding at 297 Front St N, Sarnia
Cocktail Attire (19+ event). Cash bar available on board. Entertainment by Hayden Mellon and BREN
Admission: $35 per person
Ticket Sales: Presale for Theatre Sarnia members first! Keep an eye on your inbox and Theatre Sarnia communication channels for details on how to secure your tickets during this exclusive presale period.
Important Note: This is a Rain or Shine event, so come prepared to enjoy the evening regardless of the weather!
Don't miss out on this exceptional event that combines a delightful evening on the water with the chance to support the future of Theatre Sarnia and the vital work of the Inn of the Good Shepherd. Let's come together as a community to honor Anthony Fracalanza's memory and make a real difference.
Mark your calendars for Friday, July 4th, and stay tuned for presale ticket information! We can't wait to sail with you!
Please email support@theatresarniaorg for more information Dates subject to change.
April24:TheatreSarniaYouthGroupPresents: SpacePrincessWars.Getyourticketsatthe boxoffice.
May4:Member’sEvent-TriviaEventonStage attheTheatre Members-WatchyourEmailforaninvite. Makesureyourmembershipisuptodate!
May9/102025:AuditionsforTheatreSarnia OpeningShowof2025/2026Season
May16:DeadlineforDrinkContest GetyourdrinkideasinfortheRentOpening NightGala.Enterhere:RentDrinkIdeas
May23:OpeningNightGalaforRent Joinusaftertheshowtocelebrate!Light Snacksprovided.AllTheatreSarniamembers welcome!
May23-31: TheatreSarniaPresents:Rent Getyourticketsattheboxoffice
June13/14:AuditionsforTheatreSarnia ChristmasShowof2025/2026Season
Jul4,2025:GalaforHOPE DucCruise-Markyourcalendars!
SummerYouthprograms-registrationopen.
July7-23Summershowtimeprogram
July28-Aug1SeniorMusicalTheatreProgram
Aug5-8JuniorActingProgram,JuniorMusical TheatreProgram
If you know of any Theatre Sarnia members who have had a major life event, please share with us at mailto:member-liaison@theatresarnia.org