Last weekend at the Bravo Theatre, the Lakeside community was treated to a smorgasbord of nine different scenes, each ranging from five to 15 minutes, featuring 15 actors of varying talents, from retired professionals to absolute newcomers.
Some of the pieces were excerpts from well-known plays and some were complete on their own. Interestingly, since the excerpts were from familiar plays such as “The Odd Couple” and “Blithe Spirit,” the audience didn’t really have a problem with not knowing what went on before or afterwards in the stories.
It was remarkable that there were no sets to speak of; the scenes were created on a bare stage with just four black chairs and one black table. We always knew where we were: a beauty parlor, a Chinese restaurant, a convent, a car, an apartment, a confessional and a balcony. The actors were all in costume, and that helped with the location and the music before each scene set the tone.
Congratulations are due to all the performers, in order of appearance: Kathleen Morris, Diane Jones, Marie Lyse Jacobsmullen, Pam Pettus, Monica Powers, Michele Lococo, Johan Dirkes, Dennis McCary, Jutta McAdam, Sharon Lowry, Riuchard Yanko, Maryanne Gibbard, John Ward, Christine Lecluse and Norbert Michel.
The sound design and operation was created by Karen Lee, lighting was by Jayme Littlejohn and David Wharff, stage management was done by Clay McAdam, box office, Arlene Pace and the bar was run by Tony Wilshere and Mike Molloy.
This was advertised as a showcase of talent and admission was by donation so there was no financial risk. Some of the actors were first-time performers and others seemed to be at a very high professional level. The audience had to understand accents in German, Dutch, Irish, New York (Bronx), Argentinian and Sri Lankan. It added exoticness to the show and reminded spectators of the wonderful mix of people from all over the world we have here at Lakeside.
This was the third showcase of the Bravo Actor’s Studio started two years ago by Roseann Wilshere. Anyone can register for this scene study class but the class sizes are limited. For more information and to register, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Jim Cooper