By Ron Herman
Are we tired of the long winter yet? Well, the plays have been chosen. Directors are being sought. Now it’s time to gather actors to bring these wonderful stories to life. What better way to celebrate Spring than by participating with your friends and neighbors on Center Stage at the Grange. 2011 marks the 6th Anniversary of the 10 Minute Play Fest and we are calling out to anyone and everyone who’s dreamed of being on stage.
It was in May of 2006 that the Actors Theater of Orcas Island presented the first Ten Minute Play Festival. Co-founders Doug Bechtel and Sandy Thompson brought alive their vision for local writing and acting talents to be displayed for the enjoyment of Island families and friends. Doug says “I have been totally blown away by the community’s reception to the plays presented. The Play Fest is clearly one of the favorite productions we do each year.”
Ron Herman, the Play Fest Coordinator and local writer and actor, says “The 10 Minute Play format is perfect for the first time actor as well as the veteran. The scripts are lively and varied with generally a single theme giving way to highly creative energy between the writer, director, actor and ultimately to the audience.” Here’s your opportunity to participate in the premier performance of a play, to bring the playwright’s vision to life, in a warm supportive environment.
As in the past, this year’s festival has seven wonderful plays written by Orcas Island playwrights. The plays are varied from drama to romance to comedy. Performances will be at 7:30PM on April 29 and 30 and the following weekend May 6, 7 and 8 at the Grange. This is the first time the Play Fest will be presented over two weekends. We are looking for 21 actors, of both genders and a variety of ages (17-70). Rehearsals will be during the month of April.
Auditions will be held at the Grange on both Wednesday, March 23, 7-10PM and on Saturday, March 26, 1-4PM (you need only attend one audition). Please show up in loose fitting clothing and be prepared for some fun stage work and readings from the plays. Please contact Doug Bechtel at 317-5601 or by e-mail at bechtel@rockisland.com or Ron Herman at 831-234-4960 or by e-mail at orcasmanwithdog@gmail.com. Acting experience is not necessary! The plays are available for review at the Orcas Island Library at the Front Desk.
