Stagestruck June 2024

BY DOUG HAKALA

MAGIC IN THE PALM OF YOUR HAND

From Dollar Store light up wands to custom built lightsabers, light up toys can be found in any number of places these days But what does it actually take to use that technology reliably in a stage production? Light Emitting Diodes or LEDs, are an inexpensive way to add that magical pop to props that Directors are looking for, but is it really as simple as installing them and pressing a button?

Kelly Barrington, Theatre Sarnia’s Box Office manager, has been dabbling in electronics since she was asked to create the automated rose for Beauty and the Beast in 2022. The Beast’s magic rose needed to both light up and magically drop its pedals on cue from off stage For this season’s The Little Mermaid, it was Ursala’s light-up magical shell and Triton’s trident Kelly shared her experiences in bringing lighting magic to small objects that make a huge impression on the audience.

Kelly writes: “As with all custom props, I start as early as possible with research. The first consideration is what materials the prop needs to be made from The trident’s staff and prongs needed to be translucent enough to allow the light to filter through, but also hide the fact that there are LEDs waiting to be lit I spend a lot of time watching YouTube videos from Cosplayer professionals, and amateurs alike, as they build their costumes and props It is an amazing community with a wealth of knowledge about specialty products such as EVA foam, creature cast, and foam clay (products featured heavily in my creation of the Twoey puppets for Little Shop of Horrors) Once I have selected and ordered Canadian-sourced build materials that can hold up to onstage use and aren’t going to break the bank, I move on to electronics research

The electronics industry advances quickly and what you used two years ago may no longer be available or has been vastly improved, meaning you need to relearn how to program components This goes for LEDs as well as the microcontroller boards that are used to drive the LEDs You have to consider how many LEDs need to be driven, the colors they need to produce(every LED color has its own forward voltage and voltage draw), the correct microcontroller small enough to fit in the prop but powerful enough to run the required number of LEDs, and how much combined power that all draws off the battery. Triton’s trident required over 500 LEDs which needed to be multicolored, required an onboard battery large enough to drive the LEDs and microcontroller but small enough to hide within the prop, and needed to perform a minimum of 2 different light functions using 2 separate buttons! During development, I tried 2 different boards, 3 different LED strips styles, 3 types of buttons, and 3 different battery supplies before I found the correct combination.

Now that I had the hardware components identified, I started the fun, fun job of learning a new computer language. For Beauty and the Beast’s rose I taught myself the C++ computer language to control the petal-release servos via an Adruino microcontroller controlled remotely over WiFi I admit, I had to concede and call in the big guns at the end asking my husband, a professional IT specialist, to assist. I can still hear his initial comment, “No wonder you are struggling! I went to school to learn this language and I’m finding it difficult” For the trident I used CircuitPython, known in electronics to be a ‘more user friendly programming language’, but a new language nonetheless and one my husband was not familiar with-Yikes, no backup! I ended up using a QtPyRP2040 microcontroller, Adafuit’s most powerful teeny tiny board with a mere 21.8mm x 17.8mm x 5.8mm footprint but 264 KB of RAM and 8MB SPI flash. Learning how to program this seemingly simple prop took 100’s of hours of research and programming trial and error A misplaced comma or forgotten capital letter in a line of code will cause an error and no end of frustration for the programmer!

Once the arduous task of programming was complete, the final step was putting it all together. The electronic components had to be soldered together and hidden within the prop Specialty glues had to be sourced and purchased, resin poured and cured, foam components coated to receive paint, and final artistic highlights added. After several months it was complete and the final effect was stunning! It was able to show both Triton’s angry and happy emotions at the click of a button, as requested by the Director, and none of the components were the least bit visible until intended to be.”

From the excited gasps from the kids in the audience when Triton wields his angry trident it was clear that Kelly’s hard work on these props paid off. We look forward to seeing what magic she can bring to the stage next season!

In Theatre Sarnia’s latest production of Disney's The Little Mermaid, the magic isn't confined to the story alone. Our talented fly team, consisting of Brian Austin, Sam Watson, Wyatt Herbstreit, Rachelle Lacroix, Kate Stokely, and Kelly Barrington, has brought an extraordinary dimension to the performance, lifting it— literally—to new heights.

Kelly Barrington, in charge of rotating actors mid-air, ensures that each movement is seamless and breathtaking. Her precision and attention to detail make the characters appear to float effortlessly, adding a touch of enchantment to every scene.

Rachelle Lacroix and Kate Stokely, known as travellers, have mastered the art of moving performers from stage left to stage right and vice versa. Their skillful navigation transforms the stage into a dynamic space where characters can traverse great distances with ease and grace.

Brian Austin, Sam Watson, and Wyatt Herbstreit, our dedicated lifters, are responsible for the vertical movements that leave the audience in awe. Their strength and coordination allow characters to soar above the stage, creating moments of pure theatrical magic.

One of the most spectacular effects is witnessed during the storm and shipwreck scene. The flurry of activity reaches its peak as Prince Eric is flung from the pirate ship and Ariel comes to his rescue. This high-flying sequence is a highlight of the production, showcasing the extraordinary talent and hard work of our fly team.

Safety has been the top priority for the team, who have worked tirelessly to ensure that every flight is executed flawlessly and securely. To achieve this, we enlisted the expertise of ZFX, a renowned flight specialist company. Our flight director, Johnny Pickett, brought his vast experience to our production. Johnny, a Tennessee native, has previously worked for Las Vegas-based Flying by Foy. Johnny has an impressive portfolio that includes working with Katy Perry at the American Music Awards, Taylor Swift, Siegfried and Roy, The Super Bowl and Cher. Now, he has added Theatre Sarnia to his illustrious career.

By Brian Austin Jr

THEATRE SARNIA BOARD OF THEATRE SARNIA BOARD OF

DIRECTORS DIRECTORS

BOARDOFDIRECTORS

The Board is made up of 11 Directors. There are four executive positions which include the Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer and Board Secretary. Each Director is nominated by vote at AGM for a 3 year period. The Board works with the Executive Director who is an ex officio member.

ANNUALGENERALMEETING

This year's AGM will be on September 5, 2024. If you are interested in running for the board please scan this link to the recruitment package. The application is due by June 10, 2024. If you require further information please contact awright@theatresarnia.org.

The Board developed a new 3 year Strategic Plan that went into effect in September 2022. The Strategic Plan can be found using the QR code below. We have been working hard to implement this plan over the past year.

Join a Committee A ROLE FOR EVERYONE

FINANCE

The Finance and Capital Projects Committee comprised of eight members are an advisory committee to the Board of Directors of Theatre Sarnia that will monitor and make recommendations related to financial planning, financial performance, financial investment and financial management of the organization They ensure effective financial policies and practices, as well as internal controls, are in place to safeguard Theatre Sarnia's financial health and sustainability The committee reviews Theatre Sarnia's annual budget and recommend its approval to the Board while monitoring Financial Performance against the budget If you are interesting in joining the committee please contact mkerwin@theatresarnia org

GOVERNANCE

The Governance Committee works to develop, review, and recommend policies and bylaws for approval by the Board of Directors, ensuring alignment with our mission, vision, & values and congruence with other existing policies and bylaws. This committee has been busy this year ensuring that the policies and bylaws are ONCA compliant. If you are interesting in joining the committee please contact pbedard@theathresarnia.org.

PRODUCTION

The Production Committee collaborates with the play-reading subcommittee to deliver a completed season playbill to the board of directors annually We assist in recruiting and overseeing volunteers, mentoring new directors, improving productions through post-production meetings and surveys, and updating production-related policies and procedures The committee is accountable for every production from start to finish If you are interested in joining the committee in the future, please contact hcanino@theatresarnia org

COMMUNITYENGAGEMENT

The Community Engagement Committee works to create communications and help run events for Theatre Sarnia The committee is made up of 5 subcommittees - Events, Stagestruck, 100th Year Anniversary and Fundraising If you are interesting in joining the committee please contact awright@theathresarnia org

BYSTEVEGELINAS,CHAIROFTHEBOARDOFDIRECTORS

Incredibly, we are now approaching the completion of the second year of our 20222025 Strategic Plan. Throughout the year, there has been robust planning and an earnest implementation of initiatives which have rendered genuine evidence of awesome, continued successes and significant growth in our Theatre Sarnia.

At this time, we have initiated the process of reviewing our Year Two annual planning outcomes. This takes place, in concert, at the Board level as well as throughout our Standing Committees. The Board met on a special Working Day event, in February, to begin the review of the existing Strategic Plan. The Standing Committees, - Governance, Production, Community Engagement and Finance, are presenting the results of their individual Strategic Plan Goals, for this year, to the Board in August. The Executive Director and Operations undertake a strong, critical role, as well, in the planning and the extraordinarily successful implementation of all our Goals

Again, we continue to integrate the Strategic Priorities - Sustainability, Inclusivity, Entertainment, Development, Youth Engagement, Communication and Expansiondirectly within all of our Goals with a collaborative thrust.

One is awestruck by the most generous and unselfish commitment our Membership volunteers offer to the cause. The time, skills and energy shared have a genuine impact on the unbelievable accomplishments of the Theatre. All contribute to provide our community with astounding, quality entertainment! Thanks. As ambassadors, we benefit as we seize every opportunity to proudly trumpet Theatre Sarnia!

Soon, we will be ready to share and celebrate our many achievements, continue with our improvements and look at opportunities to grow as we enter into the third and final year of our 2022- 2025 Strategic Plan.

Year Two of our Strategic Plan will go down as another exemplary, striking year and ………..we planned it!

Theatre Sarnia“ A role for everyone.”

This year, the Theatre Sarnia Youth Group will be offering three exciting summer programs: a Junior Acting Program, a Junior Musical Theatre Program, and a Senior Musical Theatre Program. These programs will run the last two weeks of July and are for ages 7-16. In our Junior Acting Program, we will introduce young performers to the fundamentals of acting! Through creative games and exercises, program participants will explore many areas of dramatic performance, including character development, storytelling, improv, and more. In our Junior Musical Theatre Program, we will introduce young performers to the world of musical theatre! Program participants will learn the building blocks of musical theatre performance while developing their skills in acting, singing, and dancing. In our Senior Musical Theatre program, participants will explore a different musical every day! They will learn songs, scenes, and choreography from a variety of shows and explore costume, prop, and set creation. With all of these skills in their theatrical toolbelt, the week will culminate in a short performance. All three programs are now SOLD OUT! If you would like to be added to any waitlist, please contact jburns@imperialtheatre.net.

Theatre Sarnia wrapped up one of its most successful seasons on June 1st, 2024 with a delightful splash. The Little Mermaid was a huge collaborative production that took two weeks of technical fine-tuning and months of preparation. The opening night Gala was a celebration for cast, crew and audience members alike. Sold-out performances and rave reviews culminated in a magical experience for all who attended

The Under the Sea-themed Gala transformed the theatre lobby and Capitol Bar into an aquatic wonderland. Vibrant coral, intricate sea creatures dangling from the ceiling, a whimsical giant balloon mermaid fin, starfish centre pieces……. every detail was meticulously carried out. We must thank Community Engagement Committee member Denise McMillan, in particular, who created the whimsy and vibe for each Gala She and many other members shared their talent and time, and are very much appreciated. Audience members and even a few bartenders arrived wearing their finest sea-inspired attire. How delightful to see dozens of little mermaids swimming around our auditorium!

Bravo to Theatre Sarnia on an amazing season! Your dedication deserves a standing ovation You have fostered a vibrant connection between theatre and community.

Thank you to the Community Engagement Committee, for your effort and enthusiasm all year long Opening night galas after each of the five Theatre Sarnia shows was a new idea during the 2023/2024 season. These elegant affairs were thoughtfully designed to weave the community deeper into the fabric of the theatre experience. Audience members attending the galas were caught up in the excitement and perhaps will feel inspired to become a volunteer or even audition for a show one day too.

By Eve Vritsios/Community Engagement Committee

YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP

The Imperial Theatre Youth Scholarship, with funding from the Chitovas & Lawton Foundation is a $2,500 bursary awarded each year to an individual entering a postsecondary education in the following artistic disciplines: Production Design and Technical Arts; Playwriting; Directing; Set and Costume Design; Acting; Dance; Music Theatre The Imperial Theatre aims to promote equity, inclusion and access through this scholarship and is pleased to continue to enrich young people through this bursary.

Apply Here -

Application Form submission is due by July 17, 2024 Auditions will happen in July, candidates will be notified of their audition date. The successful candidate will be announced August 5th, 2024

The Chitovas & Lawton Foundation was created in 2011 by Steve Chitovas and Ron Lawton who believed in the powerful rippling effect of celebrating the arts. And that the engagement, inspiration and support of youth in the arts is one of the most powerful ways to improve society.

The Chitovas & Lawton Foundation believes that the arts help cities thrive The arts in all its forms can offer perspective and creative solutions to the challenges we face. The arts inspire, challenge, excite, spark conversations, bridge differences, and so much more

Since its inception, the Chitovas & Lawton Foundation has disbursed many grants to Lambton County students pursuing post-secondary education and careers in the entertainment industry.

THEATRE COMMUNITY

Audition Technique - The Toolkit

Held on May 12, attended by 17 people

Facilitated by Stacy Smith

Stacy Smith is a Genie nominated performer, theatremaker, teacher, mentor and coach Her students have been seen onstage at The Stratford Festival in Billy Elliot and The Music Man, Drayton Entertainment and Neptune Theatre as well as many TV series’ and commercials such as The Next Step, Odd Squad, Circus Kids, Northern Rescue, Locke & Key, Murdoch Mysteries and more!

Stacy has been a professional actor for over 20 years, working in theatres throughout the country and also has worked extensively in television and on film, with recurring roles on TV in Rookie Blue as Zoe Shaw and Sex & Violence alongside Olympia Dukakis She was nominated for a Genie award for her work in the film New Waterford Girl. Other select film/tv credits include: Monica’s News, Law & Order Toronto, Accused, Frankie Drake Mysteries, The Handmaids Tale, Designated Survivor, Murdoch Mysteries, The Detail, Sebastian, Flight of The Butterflies, Blackbird, Jessie Stone, Robson Arms, Relative Chaos, Blessed Stranger, Single Mom, Marion Bridge, Wake, and Running Into Edna

WODL Festival 2024

A group representing Halfway There attended the WODL Festival 2024 Awards Banquet in London. We were nominated for 7 awards and came home with three!!!

*Jan Holt won Best Director for Halfway There *Holly won Best Performance in a Supporting Role

*The production of Halfway There also won Best Production of a Canadian Play

DEAR CATHERINE & IAN,

We hope this message finds you both in great joy and excitement! It is with heartfelt congratulations that we extend our best wishes to you on the upcoming birth of your second child This is a truly special time, and we are thrilled to share in your happiness

Catherine, as you embark on your one-year maternity leave from your role as Production Manager at the Imperial Theatre, we want to wish you a wonderfully restful and joyous time with your new addition Your hard work and dedication at the theatre have been exemplary, we can't thank you enough for your leadership and elevating our organization on so many levels We have no doubt that you will bring the same passion and love to this new chapter in your life

May this year be filled with precious moments, cherished memories, and the joy that comes with expanding your beautiful family Take this time to soak in every smile, every giggle, and every milestone Your Imperial Theatre family will surely miss your presence but will be eagerly awaiting your return when the time is right

Warmest congratulations once again, and all the best to your growing family

Love,

All of us at Theatre Sarnia!