For those in the arts community, community itself can often be an important part of many artistic endeavors. Getting to share your creativity with others, or even create something with them, is what makes the process so special. For those of us who take to the stage, community theatre can be an important outlet for that need to create art with the people around us.

Over the last several years, I’ve built up my own community within one of our local theatres, Kingsport Theatre Guild. From performing on stage, to helping build and paint set pieces, to working backstage as a crew member or even running the lights or sound… there’s truly a place for everyone in the world of theatre.

I’ve had the opportunity to perform in fourteen shows with Kingsport Theatre Guild since I first became involved in 2021. Each show is a new chance to grow my community and learn new skills. The roles I’ve played over the past few years are all quite different, and it’s a fun challenge to take on a new character each time! As I look back on all of the shows I’ve been a part of, there are a few roles that stand out.

Baker’s Wife

Getting to play the Baker’s Wife in Into the Woods was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Not only was I playing a character I’d always dreamed of playing, but I got to share the stage with both old friends and new ones! The story of Into the Woods is one many might know… to a certain point. This 1986 musical with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by James Lapine follows a group of characters taken from the Brothers Grimm fairytales, as they go about trying to achieve their own happy-ever-afters. But a series of twists and turns bring the story into uncharted territory, leaving most of the characters unsure how to keep going. In this world where many characters’ stories didn’t turn out how you’d expect, it was so freeing to play a woman who would stop at nothing to get her wish.

Janet Weiss

The Rocky Horror Show is perhaps one of the most iconic pieces of musical theatre in popular culture. With the movie achieving cult classic status and the thrilling performance of Tim Curry in both the stage production and the film, it’s easy to see why so many people keep coming back for more! The show first premiered on the West End in 1973, with music, lyrics and book by Richard O’Brien. I had the honor of playing Janet in Kingsport Theatre Guild’s production and it was certainly a show to remember. From wild midnight performances to audiences that shout callback lines and throw confetti, it’s a theatrical event like no other.

Blanche DuBois

A Streetcar Named Desire is a classic play that many students still study in English classes across the country. Written by Tennessee Williams, this show was also adapted into a rather famous movie, starring Vivien Leigh and Marlon Brando. I have my own personal history with this fabulous show as I first performed scenes from it while I was in high school. Then, years later, this show is what first brought me to Kingsport Theatre Guild! Getting to play the complex and intriguing character of Blanche DuBois was a great adventure that took research, collaboration, and fortitude. Then, I was able to continue on my theatrical journey with a new group of friends and artists, leading me to where I am today!

Get Involved

If you’re interested in getting involved with Kingsport Theatre Guild, you can visit www.kingsporttheatre.com for information on upcoming auditions, workshops, and volunteer opportunities.