New Encore Board of Directors President Takes Five (Questions)
- October 17, 2012
Encore Stage & Studio is delighted to welcome our new Board members this year. In addition, we more than grateful to have had members who made a big impact to our organization over the years. Meet our new Board of Directors President, Jerry Gidner as he shares his passion and enthusiasm for Encore, what to expect for the future, and how our community can become involved.
Encore: Question #1 – How did you get involved with Encore?
Jerry: I got involved with Encore when my daughter was cast in a show – The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. I was just finishing an MBA and as I volunteered for various parent duties and watched how Encore operated, I was thinking of different ways that Encore could increase revenue, form new strategic alliances, increase fundraising, and grow deeper roots into the community. I wrote a 5 page memo to the Producer of the show with some ideas, and the next thing I knew I was invited to join the Board of Directors! That was three years ago and I was just recently became the President of the Board.
Encore: Question #2 – What excites you about working with Encore?
Jerry: So many things. First, it is truly amazing to see the kids involved with Encore grow, both as actors and as leaders. I see it in my daughter, but also in the other actors I have watched grow up with Encore the last few years. Being in a theater production develops teamwork, responsibility, accountability – all things we want to see our children develop as they turn into adults. If an actor isn’t paying attention, misses his cue, and doesn’t appear on stage when he’s supposed to, he can affect the whole show. And let down all the actors and tech crew who have worked very hard to make the show a reality. Not to mention the several hundred people who paid to bring their kids to watch the show. So you have to be there when its your cue. And the kids doing that, some of them, are 9 years old and there is nobody backstage telling them, “It’s your cue, you have to go on.” We expect them to be responsible enough to be where they need to be. And they are. It’s beautiful to watch.
Second, the way the actors nurture each other. There is a whole range of ages in each show, from 9 to 18. Its boys and girls. And its kids from a number of different schools. I don’t think kids get a chance to interact with that kind of diverse spectrum in many places. School is split into age groups. Sports are usually split into age groups. But here, they are all together. You might think the older kids would treat the younger ones poorly, but the exact opposite is true. I’ll never forget my daughter’s first show, when she was maybe 10 years old, and in fourth or fifth grade, and all the actors were leaving the theater on opening night, and one of the actors who played a main character and who was much older than my daughter, called across the parking lot and my daughter she had done a great job that night. I was very impressed and that might be the moment I fell in love with Encore. It made me realize it is MUCH more than just a theater.
And last is our potential. We have been in existence for 46 years now, and have done some great things. But in the past two years, we have hired an Executive Director, a marketing coordinator, and an education program manager, and really have the staff now to start to really ramp up our programs even more. And it shows in what we offer the community. We now have the Encore Show Choir, Encore Presents, Mini-Camps on holidays and parent teacher conference days, and Improv Fest, where kids do a workshop on improvisational comedy and then perform. We switched to an online ticket system so you can buy tickets with a credit card, not only at the box office, but from your own home. Its much more convenient for our patrons. We developed a Strategic Plan to guide us into the future, broadened the experience of our Board, and are forming alliances with other local organizations, such as the Prelude Youth Orchestra. And these things are just the beginning. We are committed to expand our reach and our programming, forge ties with minority communities, and offer more ways for kids in Northern Virginia to experience all aspects of theater.
I think a lot of hard work by many Board members over many years has really laid the groundwork for us to really fulfill our vision of being a regional home for youth who are interested in the performing arts.
Encore: Question #3 – As President of the Board, what can we look forward to in Encore’s future?
Jerry: As mentioned above, we will be expanding our programming to make the Encore experience available to more kids, and trying to forge more partnerships to expand our reach. The biggest things we will be focusing on as a Board of Directors, though, is improving our Development or fundraising program and improving our facilities situation. As a theater company, we do have revenue from ticket sales and class tuition. But to expand and improve, and to offer our programs to low income families, we need to raise more money. So we will be expanding our outreach to corporate and individual donors to make that happen. And we are growing so fast our current office and classroom space can’t keep up with us. I would love for us to operate out of a Youth Performing Arts Center. That may be a long way away. In the meantime, though, we need to find space that will let us grow and serve more students.
Encore: Question #4 – Thus, far what is your favorite or most rewarding experience from working with Encore?
Jerry: Without a doubt, its the friendships that my daughter and I have made. It seems like everywhere we go, she sees someone she has met in an Encore show. And they are such a welcoming, nurturing group of kids. It is really great to see. And I have met so many new people through Encore, from all different fields, that I never would have met otherwise. Encore is just this amazing gem of an organization, offering truly unique opportunities for our kids. And to be able to work together with a group of passionate, committed people to really make that gem shine is one of the greatest joys in my life.
Encore: Question #5 How can others in the community get involved?
Jerry: There are many ways members of the community can help. The easiest is come see our shows. They are a great value and wonderful family entertainment. Tell people about our classes and summer camps. Let your friends know about Encore and all our programs. Donate your time or money. As a non-profit organization we need volunteers and we rely on donations for a share of our operating budget. Tell your PTAs, girl scout troops, boy scout troops, and other groups about us. We have group rates and birthday parties. If you work for a corporation that donates to community organizations, let us know. If you have corporate contacts who might be interested in being members of our Board, or can assist us with facilities space, please let us know. We hold several fundraisers, including the Encore Sunny Side Up Breakfast which will be in March 2013. Come learn more about us and fall in love with what we do for the kids in your community.
Second Year of Show Choir Takes Musical Theatre To Next Level
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September 11, 2012
We’ve had to the privilege to work with talented artists to create new and challenging programs this past year, and one of our favorites is Encore’s Show Choir! Music Director, Douglas Ullman, Jr. shares with us a reflection of Encore’s first year of show choir and what to expect for the future! Auditions are Monday, September 17, at Thomas Jefferson Middle School (125 S. Old Glebe Road Arlington, Virginia 22204).
Encore’s Show Choir made quite a good showing in its first year. In each of the four sessions, students tackled a variety of exciting repertoire ranging from chart-topping songs by Adele to classic musical theatre numbers from South Pacific and everything in between. Given the experimental nature of the program, some of the song choices were fairly ambitious. But I firmly believe that the only way for students to improve is to be constantly challenged with material that is unfamiliar to them and asks them to do things they have never done before. Last season, I was constantly impressed by the students’ ability rise to whatever challenge Kelsey and I threw at them. Whether it was the tricky counterpoint in a song from Wicked or Kelsey’s choreographic interpretation of Sara Bareilles’ lyrics, the Show Choir never failed to impress, often with chill-inducing results.
“You Could Drive a Person Crazy” from Company was perhaps the greatest test of the Show Choir’s skill. The girls were challenged on every level imaginable; Stephen Sondheim’s complex harmonies and Michael Bennett’s intricate choreography needed to be imbued with dramatic purpose. Professional actors struggle with this material. But thanks to their hard work, the Show Choir demonstrated that there is nothing they can’t do. Helping them learn and bring to life one of my favorite songs from the musical theatre cannon is by far my favorite memory from last year.
Particularly surprising was the discovery that these teenagers loved singing classical musical theatre songs. I did not expect the kind of enthusiasm as the girls displayed when we gave them “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair,” yet it seems to me that it was one of their favorite numbers.
This year, students can expect to be challenged with a similar blend of musical theatre and dramatic pop songs as they were before. Now that I know that Encore’s student can tackle Sondheim, I’ll be looking for even more opportunities to introduce them to more challenging pieces of music from the vast repertoire of musical theatre. We will also be working to incorporate more of the students’ input in song selection, which will not only increase their enjoyment, but also expand the ensemble’s repertoire.
The biggest change is that we will be implementing a new two-semester format. Two semester-long sessions will replace last year’s four short quarter-long sessions. This increased rehearsal time will allow Kelsey and I to teach more material to a more committed set of students. It will foster better relationships between the instructors and the students, thus creating the potential for greater growth not just for the ensemble as a whole, but for each individual student.
I have been thrilled to be a part of Encore’s Show Choir, and I cannot wait to see what this season has in store!
-Best,
Douglas Ullman, Jr.
Read our Press Release Find Your Beat, Show Your Light!
See you at auditions on Monday!
Encore Alum, Caitlin Doyle Shares Act III As One of the Best Summers!
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August 31, 2012
Encore staff was delighted to reconnect with Encore Alum, Caitlin Doyle! Local performing artist and Arlington native, Caitlin talks about one of her best summers with Encore, gaining self-confidence in her craft, getting accepted into a competitive musical theatre program, and paving her own path to success!
Encore: You are from the area! What high school did you attend?
Caitlin: I was born in Arlington and grew up in Burke. I attended Robinson Secondary in Fairfax, VA.
Encore: Did you always love to perform?
I have always loved performing. My first stage was the coffee table in the living room. My grandma tells a story about how at two or three years old I stood on the coffee table, took a toy umbrella, hoisted it in the air like Mary Poppins and tried to “fly” away. There are definitely a few family videos of me singing Christmas carols and attempting to choreograph my cousins into performing for the family with me.
Encore: How did you know you wanted to become an actress? What inspired you to pursue a career in acting?
Caitlin: I always loved musicals as a child (which I watched on video) and my parents would take me to shows in NY and DC as a special treat. For a while, in elementary school, I wanted to be an archeologist but my love of performing always had a way of taking over. In middle school, I was cast as Laurey in Oklahoma and I think that was what set the ball rolling. I couldn’t wait for classes to be over so I could get to rehearsal and that feeling never went away all through high school and college.
When I was accepted to the Musical Theatre BFA program at Emerson College in Boston, I really got to focus my energies on becoming an actor. The training and opportunities I received there helped me hone my skills and get a handle on what kind of challenges awaited me in the real world. I have always been inspired by actors who can do more than one genre, crossing over from musicals to plays, to TV and film. That is the kind of performer I aspire to be.
Encore: What was your last production with Encore?
Caitlin: My last production with Encore was Kiss Me, Kate in 2003. I played the role of Lilli/Kate and it definitely was a dream fulfilled for me since Kiss Me, Kate has been one of my favorite musicals since I was a little girl. My first show there was My Fair Lady which performed in the summer of 2001. I was in the ensemble so I played a maid, a party guest and a cockney flower-seller. Both productions were a blast to work on!
Encore: What is your favorite memory of Encore?
Caitlin: I love rehearsing in general, and I remember enjoying the rehearsal process for Kiss Me, Kate so much. The cast really bonded during that time and we had to do a little bit of everything, dance, stage combat, Shakespeare. I remember doing all of those in one evening and feeling blissed out by the end of the night. I was also taking classes during the day at Fairfax County’s Summer Institute for the Arts, so I was dancing and working on Shakespeare in the daytime and then rehearsing and singing Cole Porter at night. That summer was one of the best of my life and gave me confidence as I launched into college auditions later that year.
Encore: How was your experience working at Shakespeare Theatre Co?
Caitlin: The Shakespeare Theatre Company is an amazing theater in every respect. In the two shows I’ve done there, I’ve had nothing but positive experiences. In Mrs. Warren’s Profession I had the intriguing challenge of creating a character that didn’t really exist in the script but served to illustrate the main character in her younger days on the English music hall stage. I performed a number that opened the show, giving context to the main character’s background. It was nothing short of thrilling to be part of that production and to sing on the stage of the Harman. Working as part of the ensemble of An Ideal Husband in 2011, meant being a part of a group of artists onstage and off whose commitment to excellence was unparalleled. Just being there every day was joyful for me and I’m so glad to have had the opportunity. STC is a company I really believe in and so I often help out with rehearsals or an audition reader because I enjoy working there in any capacity.
Encore: You were recently in Stopgap in Capital Fringe Festival, did you enjoy the production?
Caitlin: Stopgap was a terrific experience. I loved working with the talented artists of Field Trip Theatre. The show we performed in the fringe festival was the first fully staged production of the play. I had worked on a workshop of the show a few months earlier and I felt so proud to be part of the first staging. The playwright, Danielle Mohlman, was constantly in rehearsals and devising rewrites and so we all had the chance to work on a living script that was growing and changing as we explored the play. I originated the role of May Green, a young woman who wants to have a child and chooses an untraditional path to make that happen. The play is a really funny, true take on modern families and friendship. We got a lot of positive buzz for our production and I know that the play will have a life beyond the fringe festival!
Encore: How did Encore influence who you are and where you are in your career?
Caitlin: The summer I spent working on Kiss Me Kate, made it clear to me that I am the happiest when I am working on a show and growing as an artist. I had so much self-confidence coming out of that summer, proud of what I had accomplished, that I was able to successfully propel myself into the gauntlet of college theater auditions and my senior year of high school. I was accepted into a competitive musical theatre program and I’ve never looked back.
Encore: What is your favorite song to sing in auditions, in the shower, or general?
Caitlin: I have go-to audition songs definitely, but I love to rock out to music when I’m driving. Usually I can be found singing along to Eric Hutchinson, Regina Spektor, The Lisps or Fun!
Encore: Do you feel there is a strong actor community after Encore or in the area in general?
Caitlin: There is definitely a strong community of actors in the Washington DC area. I think the general sense is one of comradeship and working together. I know there are several actors in DC who worked with Encore and it makes sense, because Encore Stage instills those positive values early in young people who want to pursue the Performing Arts as a profession.
Thank you Caitlin for taking us down lovely memory lane and sharing your favorite Encore moments, Shakespeare Theatre Co. and Capital Fringe experience! We’re very proud of all you have accomplished and beyond! Be sure to check out Caitlin’s website!
Photos of Encore’s Act III Production of Kiss Me Kate By Larry McClemons
Under the Sun: Message from our Summer Camp Directors
August 14, 2012
Hear from our vibrant Camp Directors as they share an update of the heart and soul of Encore this season: the summer camps!
This was a great summer for It’s Elementary. It was exciting to see so many re-occurring students. Many of the students shared stories of their acting experiences during the past year. It’s Elementary was introduced to new talent, many were led to our camp by word of mouth.
All of our themes were well received (we had waiting lists). I would have to say my personal favorite was “make them laugh”. We had a ball. If you were to walk down the halls of the camp, at any given moment you would have heard laughter, songs, jokes etc… It was a very happy place to spend your summer.
Many of our campers made new friends. I constantly heard of kids and parents setting up play dates. The campers would tell me of the new friends that they made at camp.
One camper was sad that she could no longer attend It’s Elementary because of her age, but then we talked about moving forward and attending Stage Door. While we were speaking another camper couldn’t wait to tell me that he is going to Stage Door next summer and that she would not be alone. The end result is that the once sad camper is now excited to move on.
It’s Elementary is more than a place to learn about theatre. We are a community helping each other through life’s many lessons.
–Madaline Langston
Director of It’s Elementary
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If I had to choose a single word to describe this summer’s Stage Door experience, it would be “ensemble.” It’s rare to see a group of students this young band together to build what felt, to me, like the makings of a children’s theatre troupe–my only regret was that I did not have more time to spend with these gifted and giving children. Granted this wasn’t an instantaneous connection: some students are always more shy or more outgoing than others, both on stage and in person, but over three weeks, this little “troupe” found some magic. With time, they developed skills that will serve them whether they ever choose to set foot on stage again or not–and by a 100% vote, every single one said they would return to Stage Door next year, even if their age prevented them from being campers again.They learned to listen to and support each other, to find ways to help and comfort each other.
The faculty was superb this year and worked together like a well-oiled machine. Thembi Duncan (Acting), Kelsey Meiklejohn (Dance), and Encore’s own Executive Director, Sara Strehle Duke (music) led the students in fun but also enriching activities and exercises that honed their theatrical instincts and sharpened their skills, preparing them for the scene and song work to come. (I also headed one of the acting classes.) We had fabulous guest artists in Erin Driscoll and Chris Sizemore (Musical Theatre), Vince Eisenson (Physical Theatre), and Amy Thompson (Shakespeare). The latter two frequently work for Encore as does Kelsey, our dance teacher. They are very popular with students, and Erin and Chris recently starred in Encore’s production of Pirates of Penzance. Rounding out our staff was Colin Dieck, who did a lovely job with the lighting and sound.
Our theme this year was “Comedy Tonight,” derived from the opening of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, and we used it as our opening number. Four other songs from the world of musical theatre followed suite, as did four comedic scenes in styles ranging from Shakespeare to sitcom-esque. Every student had a speaking part, a few were in two scenes, and every child was in at least three musical numbers. Students were very proud of their work and rightly so. We celebrated their hard work and focus over cake and soda at our traditional end-of-camp party. During the festivities, the Artists-in-Training handed out silly, but positive awards that they had chosen for each student like “Highest Kick” or something with a camp-wide inside joke such as “Silent Ninja.” (The latter has to do with a theatre game that students played.)
Unanimously, students were thrilled with the camp, some even going so far as to call it a “family.” As a theatre professional myself, I know of what they spoke and it is true–those people you train and build a production with, whom you trust, truly are your family for that ephemeral moment in time–and sometimes, even longer. That is the true meaning of “ensemble,” and those students understood it and embraced it by the end of our three weeks together.
Until next year,
Victoria Reinsel
Director of Stage Door
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The thing I like most about Tweens ‘N Teens is watching the students explode into their creativity. We really try to give everyone a chance to contribute ideas and then incorporate as many of those into the performance as possible. All the music for the show is created, written or found by students. Each student created their own costume sashes in a design they felt was the best for their character. Even the staging and structure of the show was based off of the instincts and thoughts of the actors. It helped of course to have a show that was written by our teachers exclusively for this camp. Rachel Hynes and Amy Thompson developed a piece specifically to fit the needs of TNT.
Guess what? By working this way we managed to have truly impressive shows. Many parents told me this year’s show was the best children’s theatre they have ever seen. I believe it’s because of the amount of freedom we give to each student and the amount of input we received from the students. When actors have ownership over what they have created, they put more care and effort into the show. It was obvious to me how much our students gave to this by how great it all turned out. I feel grateful we are creating such an open and caring artistic community, and a great theatre that is willing to support it. Well done Encore!
-Christina Frank
Director of TNT
Our Modern Day Frederic –Chris Sizemore
Avast ye! Encore had a fabulous and shipshape opening weekend of The Pirates of Penzance starring Chris Sizemore and Erin Driscoll as Mabel and Frederic. Encore staff gets an exclusive interview with cast member Chris Sizemore, as he shares his favorite experiences in the theatre and working onstage as the handsome and clever pirate. His credits include: REGIONAL Ford’s Theatre: 1776, Parade, The Civil War (HH Nom. Ensemble); Shakespeare Theatre Co.: Two Gents…Rock Opera, Candide (HH Nom. Ensemble); Signature: Chess, Sweeney Todd, Showboat, Les Miserables (HH Nom. Supporting Actor)(HH Award Ensemble); Olney Theatre Center: 1776, Fiddler, Cinderella; Toby’s: Miss Saigon, Beauty & The Beast, Grease, Seussical; NATIONAL TOUR: Kennedy Center: Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka.
Encore: What was the first production you were ever in and what part did you play?
Chris: My first show ever was Snoopy and I auditioned and they had cast everything else but didn’t want to leave me out so they added the Role of Pig Pen for me. I basically was in the scenes and rolled around in a dirt pile before each show for my costume.
Encore: Did you study theater or music in college?
Chris: I did not I graduated from Marshall University with a BA in Marketing.
Encore: If not, how did your college experience prepare you for this career?
Chris: Marketing most of the time leads you into a career of sales and my sales background has helped me in theatre, because if you think about it when you audition you are selling yourself to the director. You also may have to speak in front of big crowds so that definitely helped with theatre and vice versa.
Encore: You were first nominated for a Helen Hayes Award in 2009 for your role in Les Miserables. Were you surprised?
Chris: I actually was because I thought the nomination was for another show and part I had performed earlier that year. Ha that sounds bad but yes it was a pleasant surprise. My friend actually called me and told me before I had even found out.
Encore: So many people aspire to become actors, do you have any advice for someone who is interested in pursuing a career as an actor?
Chris: I always answer this question the same way…Persistence. That, I believe is the key, because there is a lot of rejection in this business and you have to be able to get past it and keep going.
Encore: What is your favorite role and why?
Chris: Enjorals in Les Miserables was obviously great, but I would have to say Edward Rutledge in 1776. It is such a well written role…the passion, conviction, southern gentleman, and just plain fun who sings one of the most real, dark and in your face songs ever written in musical theatre.
Encore: What was your first thought when you were approached about the role of Frederic? Were you a fan of the show before you signed on?
Chris: I had done one other Gilbert & Sullivan show before and loved it. I was not familiar with this show, but one of my best friends Evan Hoffmann was directing and I was told I would get to play opposite of another great friend of mine Erin Driscoll/Gardiner and I was like “ABSOLUTELY.” Plus I was excited to work with Encore and help out with this production.
Encore: In what ways are you and Frederic alike and different?
Chris: Oh wow…I appreciate his sense of loyalty aka “duty” as in the show. I try to be as loyal as I can with my friends and family. He is also a passionate individual, which I can be passionate about many things as well. I don’t believe I’m as naive as he is, I truly hope not hahaha.
Encore: What did you have to do to prepare for the role of Frederic?
Chris: It’s very classical singing, which was my main focus of training, but I did have to step back into that feel for my voice. Much musical theatre these days is very contemporary, so you have to be able to manipulate your voice to be able to sing the many different genres. Also since we are singing to tracked music and not with a live orchestra, you really have to be on point with your music. There is no room for error when singing with a track. With an orchestra you have some ability to “feel” the music and know the orchestra will follow, with a track you don’t have that luxury. We had a great Music Director in Doug which helped with that. PLUS I found out the stamina of 33yr old Chris is not the same as 23yr old Chris hahahaha. This role is physically demanding, so I had to and still am finding places to catch my breathe.
Encore: Do you see yourself in the DC Metropolitan area for the foreseeable future or do you have aspirations of performing elsewhere?
Encore: I will be here as long as the work is here. So far the future looks good, but ultimately you gotta go where the work is. But I love it here and this theatre community and it’s been nice to me.
Greetings from Tech Week for the Pirates of Penzance!
July 17, 2012
“Tech week” refers to the week prior to opening night of a production and involves everyone from the actors and technical crew to production staff and more. At this point, the actors have all of their music and lines memorized and will be focused on familiarizing themselves with the set and props. The technical crew will be working out all of their cues, as well as hanging lights, setting props, and getting acclimated with their roles in the show. It is a very busy week for everyone involved in the production and a lot of hard work, but it’s so much fun to see the show come together.
Hear from our talented and silly cast!
“I am happy to get out of the basement rehearsal room of TJ and onto the stage. And I’m excited for our costumes!”
-Grace Iekel, Daughter
“Have you ever noticed that everyone starts smelling like each other?”
-Melina Smith, Daughter
“I like to gimp when I am not on stage.”
-Joshua Simon, Sargent
“I like how close the cast gets.”
-Lowry Palmer, Daughter
“I’m looking forward to seeing the make up and what my transformation to an older woman will be.”
Tara Koslov, Ruth
“I am looking forward to seeing the dances come together on the big stage!”
Sarah Conrad, Choreographer and Assistant Technical Director
We are super excited for the show to open on Thursday and we can’t wait for you all to see it. See you at the theatre!
–Gina Lodato Pelusi, Daughter/Policeman
Encore Board of Director
Encore Alum Jamie Gray Hyder Stars in the HBO hit series, True Blood
July 4, 2012
Encore Stage & Studio’s staff reconnects with the talented and former Encore participant, Jamie Gray Hyder! Learn about Jamie’s experience with Encore and her journey of making it to the Hollywood scene! Catch Jamie in the hit HBO series True Blood. Jamie plays Danielle, the new werewolf in town!
Encore: What do you enjoy most about acting on film and on stage? Do you enjoy one more than the other?
Jamie: I have always had a very short attention span, and the stage and on set are the only places I was able to focus from a very young age. My energy is best put towards something creative! They are very different, but both have advantages and disadvantages. Stage gives you the instant gratification and adrenaline rush from the live audience, but you have to be on point because there is no cutting if you make a mistake. On screen, you get the chance to make adjustments, and try different things to see what works best, however not knowing what the final edit will be can make you nervous. You always have your fingers crossed that your scene doesn’t get cut!
Encore: What was your last show and memory with Encore?
Jamie: I was very lucky to do several shows with Encore (known as The Children’s Theater in my day) growing up. I made many of my life-long friends while performing and doing shows for Encore. I think the last show I did was My Fair Lady during the summer with Act III. We had a blast! I still use dialect tools that we learned while rehearsing for that show in my roles today.
Encore: Do you have a favorite audition experience?
Jamie: When I auditioned for True Blood, I thought it was going to be a long and drawn out process considering the magnitude of the show. My audition sides consisted of one line, but I knew I had to create as much character and context around that one line, as possible. I walked into a room of 10+ people, including Alan Ball the creator and executive producer of the show, the writers, directors, and casting directors. I did my audition, and left hoping I would at least get a callback. 2 hours later, my manager called and told me I booked it! It took a day or so for it to sink in, I was over the moon! Then we started shooting 2 weeks later.
Encore: What do you enjoy most about working on TrueBlood?
Jamie: The sense of community and positive energy on the show is incredible. Coming into a show 4 seasons in the making can be scary, but I was welcomed with warm smiles and open arms. We are really excited and fortunate to be there. We take so much pride in the show.
Encore: You were invited to the red carpet premiere for TrueBlood, what was that like?
Jamie: It was a dream come true, literally! I remember watching award shows and premieres on TV as a kid and thinking, that’s where I want to be, that’s the group I want to be a part of. I couldn’t figure out how all the photographers knew my name, it was nuts. It went really fast and I couldn’t wipe the giant grin off my face! You don’t realize it while it’s happening, but as a friend told me, ‘this is one of THOSE moments’ and I will never forget it.
Encore: The show has a lot of violence, is it as raw and scary in person as it is on TV?
Jamie: Some situations aren’t as scary while filming because you are stopping and starting, and there are tons of people and equipment around. But there are some effects and props that you can’t believe aren’t real. The dummy of Marcus’ dead body, in one of the werewolf scenes in Episode 1, looked identical to the actor. I was standing 3 feet away and could’ve sworn it was him. They had his stomach and ribs exposed and you could see the bones and muscles and everything. The art department on the show is incredible. They are insanely creative. One thing people don’t realize is that we work with real hybrid wolves on set, they aren’t CGIs. We have to be very still and quiet when they’re around, and it can be a little tense. They are wild animals.
After living in this area for all of your life, was it a difficult decision to pick up and move to Los Angeles? And how did you decide it was the right decision?
Jamie: After college, I came back to DC and did stage for a while. One day my dad said, ‘don’t you need to be out in LA if you want to do this for a living?’ I knew he was right, but wanted to have more money saved up before I went. He insisted that I couldn’t wait any longer, and gave me a little money to help me move, and 2 weeks later, I moved! It was really hard leaving my home, and friends and family, but I knew I had to go if I was going to pursue acting professionally. I didn’t go because it was easy, I went because it was what I had to do.
Encore: Do you have any advice for our current Encore participants for those would like to pursue acting as a career?
Jamie: Work as hard as you can. Read plays. Study films. Take care of your body and voice. Having my degree in Theatre and Film Studies has been invaluable when it came to getting representation in LA. People immediately know you’re serious when they see you spent 4 years studying every aspect of the craft. You have to take your work and yourself seriously, but with that said, have fun!! It’s doing what you love that is the real prize.
Encore: Any other scoop you can give us for all of the TrueBlood fans out there?!
Well, I wouldn’t dare spoil any juicy details 🙂 There is so much fun, exciting, and intense stuff coming up, so keep watching! Old characters are coming back, new characters revealed, and lots of blood!! Muahahahaha. 😉
Encore: We’re just so proud of you and all you’re accomplishing! Know that everyone at Encore is cheering you on!
Check out Jamie Gray Hyder’s website, and follow her on twitter @JGHyder
Some book, Some play, Some anniversary — Behind the curtain with Director Susan A. Keady
June 2, 2012
Encore is not alone in celebrating a grand anniversary this year. Charlotte’s Web celebrates it’s 60th year! Director Susan A. Keady shares her thoughts and journey with Encore’s production of Charlotte’s Web.
To close Encore’s 45th anniversary season, I wanted to direct a literary classic for our June show. After searching my shelves of beloved children’s novels, I landed on Charlotte’s Web. This is Charlotte’s anniversary too, her story precedes the founding of Encore Stage and Studio by 15 years. Sixty years ago, on October 15, 1952, E.B. White’s Charlotte’s Web was published. As a young child, I was an avid reader and Charlotte’s story was one of my favorites. I remember when my Weekly Reader Book Club offered me the chance to order my very own copy of Charlotte’s Web for my monthly selection. I was so very excited to own my own copy of E.B. White’s wonderful story. I was captivated with the charming characters and the unique story line; the bashful baby boy pig who was befriended and ultimately had his life saved by two females; a sweet farm girl, Fern and an elegant spider, Charlotte. There weren’t many stories in the 1950’s and 60’s that had powerful female figures who drove the story forward through imaginative critical thinking skills and peaceful problem solving, and saved the day without a handsome prince. Albeit, Templeton is a rat and a male and, without his dumpster diving for words for Charlotte to write, Wilbur might have ended his days up on the Honey Baked chopping block. So, I give Templeton his due; he is a self serving rat who tosses in the lesson “you gotta take the good with the bad.” The additional animals in the barnyard offer their well-intended ideas and advice during farm meetings, which Charlotte chairs.
While I was casting the show, I watched each auditionee move and tried to imagine where each child would fit into the story. What characteristics and personality traits would the children have that would enhance the story? I added many more animals than the original script offers to give more children the opportunity to work on stage. This was a difficult show to cast because, in the end, I probably could have used just about all 110 children that auditioned but our cast was limited to 25 and quality over quantity ruled. I imagine all the animals to have distinct personalities, perhaps blended by their species similarities; the geese and gander would preen and offer sage advice, the ducks would be kept in line (literally) by their mother duck, the sheep would speak in a pragmatic fashion, all the lambs would jump over fences together and cry “baaa” in and out of unison and since their legs were new, they probably stumbled often. My treatment of all the animals is heavily influenced by Lambchop, my favorite sock puppet, inspired by Shari Lewis’ television show Lambchop which premiered only a few years after Charlotte’s Web. Lamb Chop was an obstinate but very vulnerable creature, not unlike all my barnyard animals and certainly very muck like Fern. Fern acts out of simple, sweet impulse in her desire to save a baby runt and her action takes us on an adventure of faith, love, hope and an unusual friendship with an insect most children fear, a spider.
The story holds up beautifully and all the barnyard animals that I envisioned when I read the story as a child remain vivid to me. I return to the book over and over while I am directing because the story is always fresh and inspiring.
My literary selections, the casting process, the way I feel about Charlotte and her story are all similar to the way I feel about Encore Stage and Studio. It is a genuine, sweet and inspiring theatre company peopled by hundreds of participants every year who are intelligent, creative, vulnerable, kind and inspiring. The children and adults who work with Encore have an admirable work ethic and a strong faith in the productions we produce. Through the uncertainties of this year with the revolving theatre venues due to the earthquake, the Encore staff, the participants, the Arlington County staff and the Northern Virginia community have all remained helpful, loyal and true to the cause of offering a place for children to perform and for thousands of children to attend.
-Susan A. Keady
Artistic Director
Sunny Side Up Benefit Breakfast –Extra Servings with Erin Driscoll
- April 30, 2012
Encore Stage & Studio was delighted to have Erin Driscoll speak at our 2nd Annual Sunny Side Up Benefit Breakfast about her experience with Encore and the journey towards her success. One of Encore’s Board of Directors Gina Pelusi, gets an exclusive interview with Helen Hayes Award Winner and Encore Alum, Erin Driscoll.
Encore: When did you first start performing? Have you always loved the stage?
Erin: Professionally, I have been performing since college. But, I joined choir and did the school play as soon as my school let me. My parents have photos of me singing in front of the fireplace as a little girl, so yes, I could say that I always loved the stage.
Encore: What did you study in high school and college? Do you feel it’s important to major in theater or music if being a performer is what you want to do?
Erin: I studied voice privately while in high school and took drama and chorus. In college, I majored in Vocal Performance with a concentration in Musical Theater. I think learning all you can about the craft is important especially if you know you want to perform. However, a degree is not necessary. I have learned so much from just doing shows and working with other professionals.
Encore: Your voice is stunning. Did you ever plan to focus primarily on singing? Or did you always know you wanted to be involved in musical theater?
Erin: Awwww! Thank you! Well, I always knew I wanted to sing and theater was another place I could do it. But, as I have continued performing, I love new challenges. So, I want to get better at acting and dancing. I would love to do a play with no singing. I like to keep things interesting!
Encore: How did you first come to find out about Encore Stage & Studio? What made you come out to audition?
Erin: Great question. My mom saw an ad for auditions for West Side Story by a theater company called Act III, which is now Encore Stage and Studio. West Side Story is my favorite musical of all time so I had to go audition!
Encore: Obviously it was a good experience, if you came back to audition again. What made the experience so special?
Erin: Well, it helped that I got cast in such a great role! I have always wanted to play Maria so it was a dream come true. Then, I feel in love with the people both onstage and off! I loved being directed by Susan Keady! I am still in touch with the people today that did the show so many years ago.
Encore: Rejection is never an easy thing to experience no matter what age you are or how long you’ve been in the industry. Do you have any advice for aspiring actors who are frustrated about the process?
Erin: I am about to say all the things that people have shared with me about rejection but I warn you that it is still hard even with the advice. With that said, it is important to remember you will be rejected more times then you will hear good news. Most of the time…no almost all of the time, it has NOTHING to do with your talent! It is more about look and chemistry and what is in one persons brain as the ideal for the role. It is hard but an actor should not take it personally when they are rejected.
Encore: You have performed in front of some really big audiences. Don’t you ever get nervous? And how do you handle it?
Erin: Yes, I sometimes get nervous. Mostly I get nervous when I am not a hundred percent sure of my lines or blocking or something along those lines. I get nervous when my husband comes to see me in a show. His opinion is very important to me so I always worry when he is out there.
Encore: Favorite show you have ever done. And why?
Erin: My favorite show I have done, so far, is Urinetown at Signature Theater. The show itself is brilliant but I also think it was a magical group of people putting the together. We had so much fun. I think I could have run that show forever!
Encore: What is your favorite musical that you have never been a part of? And why?
Erin: Wow…that is hard. My favorite show that I have not been in happens to be several shows. I would LOVE to do Light in the Piazza, Legally Blonde, Wicked to name a few!
Encore: Is there an actor or actress who has really inspired you in your career? What makes them so successful?
Erin: There are many actors and actresses that inspire me with their performances but I think it was Barbara Streisand, whose voice and acting really inspired me to try to be a performer. I think not only is her voice one of kind and stellar but she is extremely intelligent and purposeful on stage and screen. Meryl Streep is another. Most because you believe anything and everything she says as any character she plays.
Our Supporters
- Encore Stage & Studio is supported in part by the Virginia Commission for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Arlington Cultural Affairs Division of Arlington Economic Development and the Arlington Commission for the Arts.
Encore Stage & Studio participates in CultureCapital, your link to the Arts in Metro DC.
Encore Stage & Studio participates in the following:
Arlington Summer Camps
Activty Rocket
Encore Stage & Studio joins over 200 Washington DC area charities since 1994 to receive funding from the Children’s Charities Foundation (CCF). Founded by Peter Teeley, former US Ambassador, and a group of Washington-area business and professional leaders, CCF has distributed nearly $9 million to support area children by strengthening their health and welfare, supporting strong and cohesive families, and assisting educational and recreational programs. The Children’s Charities Foundation raises most of its funds from the BB&T Classic, an annual basketball tournament held in early December featuring college and university teams; the BasketBALL, its annual gala dinner held before the tournament; and a Golf Tournament held each spring. BB&T is CCF’s corporate partner in fundraising. Visit www.ccfdc.org for more information.
