#TAAMermaid Cast Spotlight: Haleigh Cook as Ariel

Meet Haleigh Cook, Ariel in Theater Arts Alliance's upcoming production of Disney's The Little Mermaid!

Haleigh shares the role with Megan Forgey, and will be performing Thursday evening, Saturday evening, and Sunday at the 2pm matinee.

We asked Haleigh several questions about life, theater, and playing a major role like Ariel -- here are her responses! 

What is your background in Musical Theater?
I started doing theatre with TCOE when I was seven years old, playing the role of Gretl in "The Sound of Music" and haven't stopped since. I have been fortunate to have been in productions such as "The Music Man", "Beauty and the Beast", "Phantom of the Opera", "Les Miserables", and many, many more. 

What are some of your favorite roles to date?
My favorite roles to date are Cosette in "Les Miserables," Bonnie in "Anything Goes," Little Sally in "Urinetown," and Penny, in an original musical, "At The Chelsea," created by the students and faculty of CAP21, about the Chelsea Hotel. Cosette was a dream role of mine that

challenged vocally and it is one of the most dramatic roles I have yet to play. The most fun I have ever had playing a part was Bonnie because it was all about comedic timing and tap dancing. It was also one of the best casts I have ever worked with. Little Sally is a role that I am very proud of. I loved every moment of working with the talented cast and crew. It also had an amazing script, which is surprising for a musical with an odd title like "Urinetown". When we were tasked with creating an original musical at CAP21, I found it very daunting but the experience of creating and developing a character and storyline was one of the most rewarding I have ever had.

What do you do for work/hobbies?
At the moment, I live in New York City having just graduated from CAP21, a conservatory for musical theatre. I am now pursuing a career as an actor. My hobbies are seeing an occasional Broadway show and trying to finish a book on the subway.

 What is special about "The Little Mermaid?"  About Ariel?
"The Little Mermaid" is special because it is a story that almost everyone connects with in some form. It is about romantic love, yes, but it is also about love of family. The relationship that Ariel and her father have is one that is complicated and yet beautiful at the same time. Also I believe that Ariel's dream to become human is something that resonates with people as almost everyone has wished for something more. Ariel is so special to me because I have found myself relating to her as I too moved to the unknown in New York City to chase a dream that most would consider impossible. She is one of my favorite Disney Princesses and is the one I feel most connected to. She has such strength and self confidence which is so inspiring. I feel so honored to play her. 

How did you prepare for this role?
For this role, I began by watching the Classic Disney movie. I have always been a fan of Disney but I hadn't seen the movie in years. As I watched, I began to see that I understood Ariel far better than I had when I was younger. I also remembered why this music is so inspiring. The music is moving and incredibly beautiful. I especially love 'Part of Your World'. It has always been one of my favorite songs and to be able to sing it is a dream come true. 
 
What have you enjoyed about the rehearsal process?

I have enjoyed returning to my roots in Visalia. I have been able to reconnect with my theatre family that has supported and shaped me into the performer and person I am today. I also enjoyed working with new faces that have been so giving with their talents and make me so excited to share the stage with such a talented group.

Who else in the cast will audiences especially enjoy?
I think audiences will love these wonderful characters, such as Sebastian, Scuttle, Prince Eric, Ursula, and many others, that fill this colorful and vibrant world that is being created at the L.J. Williams Theater. I hope they will find themselves being transported to our magical world that we are so excited to share with them. 

What is your next theater project?
At the moment, I have no set plans in theatre besides returning to the world of auditioning in New York City and continuing to chase my dream of working as a professional actor. 

How is theater important to you personally and to communities?   
Theatre is so important to me because it is in my opinion the most beautiful forms of art. It is about sharing the human experience with other human beings. It is a way of escaping the troubles of the world, it is a way to share stories, and nothing is more magical than a community coming together to share an experience as one. 

Who should see this production of Disney's "The Little Mermaid?"
"The Little Mermaid" is a show for everyone in my opinion. The story is universal because all have felt the yearning for something more. It is for youngest of us will experience the theatre for perhaps the first time as well as the young at heart who will get to experience a world where dreams come true, true love conquers all, and mermaids are swimming just beyond the horizon.

See Haleigh and the rest of the fantastic TAAMermaid cast this weekend! 
November 3rd-6th at the LJ Williams Theater in Visalia... tickets at

http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2631150 

#TAABeauty Cast Spotlight... Vincent Macareno, The Beast

Vincent Macareno is not only an extremely promising young actor but already beginning his career as a theater producer and director.  It is such a privilege and joy to work with him and we can hardly wait for audiences to experience his thrilling portrayal of The Beast!  Here are some of his thoughts, experiences, and plans in theater and in life!




You're crazy enough to want to spend the rest of your life in the performing arts... why? I'm interested in music and theatre (and especially musical theatre!) because I think both of these mediums have the ability to touch people in ways that others can't. We, as theatre artists,

are very in tune with what we have come to embrace as "the human experience", and we thus have a responsibility to bring stories to life that have the capacity to make a substantial impact on people. The crazy thing about theatre, for me, is that we are told to sit down and watch two to three hours of what seems like such a specific, enticing story, and we leave finding that we have found ourselves in a certain character or relate to a certain aspect of the plot, and that's what draws me in. That's what makes me want to do this for a living. To be able to tell people that someone understands something that no one else seems to, and entertain them at the same time is such a gratifying experience.

You have already done many theater projects... do you have a favorite?It's hard to pick a favorite theatre project! Every single show I've been in has impacted my life

in some way or another. This may be biased, but my formal debut producing venture, RENT, has been incredibly rewarding, and would definitely take the top spot. I knew that I was in love with every single aspect of musical theatre (and theatre in general!), but this project proved it to me, and I loved being faced with the responsibility of bringing that production to life, regardless of whether or not it came into full fruition. I also had the privilege of being both on stage and behind the scenes, so it was a lot of fun. However, if I had to pick a project that was not my own, it would definitely be a tie between The Phantom of the Opera and Mary Poppins. I always say that Phantom is the one show I could do eight times a week and never get tired of, and it was my dream show for a long time. Not to mention, Monsieur Firmin is such a fun character to play. In regards to Mary Poppins, I received so much praise for that show, and I loved playing Mr. Banks. I feel like he's one of the characters that I truly made my own, not to mention, the entire cast was absolutely phenomenal!

What are your major artistic influences?  I of course have been influenced greatly by every single director/mentor/teacher I've ever worked with, both here in Visalia and in San Jose, and I feel like there's too many to name! Every single one of them leaves their stamp on me in very specific and profound ways, and I think it shows in all the work I do. I'm also extremely inspired by some of the incredibly

talented people working in the industry right now! Sierra Boggess would definitely be my biggest influence when it comes to dressing room traditions/backstage activities. I love her views on life, and it's because of her that I draw angel cards before every performance, as well as do things such as center myself, meditate, etc. Ramin Karimloo is my biggest inspiration, vocally. I sang the entire score of his and Sierra's cast recording of Phantom for a solid 4 years straight (that is not an exaggeration. Seriously, ask my parents what I sang in the shower for most of middle school/high school. I could literally do the entire show by heart!), and I genuinely would not be where I am now if it weren't for his incredibly powerful and awe-inspiring voice. Words can't describe how much I wanted to sound like him and have his range! It was also him that taught me that it is important to have something to say about the characters you portray, which is a philosophy I follow very strongly. My last inspiration, performance wise, is Ben Platt. He and I aren't too far apart, age-wise, and when I saw his performance in Dear Evan Hansen off-Broadway, I realized just how much an honest, raw performance can make a story and a character shine. Also, I have to mention that, as a director, I am greatly influenced by Michael Greif, who directed three of my favorite shows (two of which I already mentioned in my answers!), RENT, If/Then, and Dear Evan Hansen. His ability to capture everyday human life and make it a theatrical masterpiece is such an incredible talent, and there will never be a piece of theatre he helms that won't inspire me.

What is your process like?  Preparing for a role like Beast is actually much more taxing than one would expect. In playing this role thus far, it's incredible how much Beast taps into every single bit of training I've had. Acting wise, he is a man - or, rather, a Beast - of extremes. His temper is such an integral part of the narrative and I, as a performer, have to be relentless in bringing that out. Also, it's important to show how animalistic he's become, especially since if Beast isn't scary and monstrous and doesn't provide a stark contrast of when he begins to have a heart and is eventually transformed, then we lose the heart and prominence of the story. He also is such a tough character on the voice. All the growling and yelling and such does a number on my vocal chords, and I am always quick to continuously warm both down and up before and after scenes to make sure that I can maintain that gruff sound and still be able to sing when necessary. Lastly, I am always sure to bring more to my facial expressions and body language than usual, as I want to make sure that it will be able to read through my prosthetics when the time comes.

What's next for you?  What are your goals?
My long term goals are definitely to become an Equity actor and be able to perform for a living while also producing and directing projects that interest me, and be able to give back to the Visalia theatre community when I can. My top dream roles are Bruce Bechdel (Fun Home), Evan Hansen (Dear Evan Hansen), Alexander Hamilton (Hamilton), and Lucas (If/Then), to name just a few. My short-term goals are, of course, to get my degree in musical theatre, and deliver a captivating performance as Beast with this incredible cast!

Why do you think the performing arts, and especially theater arts, are important? Theatre is important to individuals because it allows us to connect with one another, both as performers and audience members. Especially in the world we live in today, connection is so important, and theatre is such an incredible vehicle for that. Plays and musicals have the ability to unite so many people, as well as create conversations about the life we choose to lead and the way our lives can touch others. Theatre has taught me more about myself than anyone or anything else; its established my morals, my philosophies on life, and what I want to see more of in the world, and I genuinely believe it has the power to do that for anyone who allows themselves to be immersed in this beautiful medium. Theatre is tremendously important to communities as well, because of how influential it can be. The fact that we are seeing other humans on a stage, breathing the same air as us, sharing in a holistic experience as we take a journey through a narrative we can't control is a very powerful thing, and it has an affect on our brains whether we want it to or not. Any production has the power to move mountains, whether it be in sparking a social revolution or even just paving the way for other productions to be able to do so, and no other industry can say that. I also think its important for communities to support the performing arts as a whole because I have always been a stern believer in following your passion, and allowing it to become your career. I've seen and heard of too many talented people leaving their dreams behind because of backlash from loved ones, widespread doubt, and other negative, third party influences. The support of these careers starts in the homes and communities of those who question whether or not to follow their dreams, and there is not a single entity that won't benefit from their eventual success.

Any thoughts on Theater Arts Alliance's upcoming production of Disney's Beauty and the Beast?I'm so excited to make my TAA debut with Beauty & the Beast! The cast and production team are all so talented, and it's definitely the most professional environment I've ever been in. I can tell this production is going to be one for the books, and I can't wait for everyone to see it!

See Vincent and the rest of the incredible #TAABeauty cast August 18-21st at the LJ Williams Theater in Visalia!

                     Tickets at Brown Paper Tickets Online!

#TAABeauty Young Artist Spotlight: Featured Dancer Kaylynn Gardner!

Kaylynn Bonnie Gardner is an eleven year old sixth grader at Monroe Elementary School in Hanford, her favorite subject is math and we at Theater Arts Alliance have known that "KK" was a girl to watch ever since she walked into auditions for the Nutcracker Ballet!  We hope that this talented and enthusiastic young woman continues to be a fixture in our productions!  Here are some of her thoughts on life as a young person in the performing arts! 
 
 
How long have you been studying the performing arts? 
I have danced since before I could even walk, competing with Dancer's Edge in Hanford and the past year dancing with Ruby Slipper in Visalia. Last summer I was in my first production, Annie, where I was a lead dancer. It was so much fun and it truly sparked my desire to be on stage! Last fall I was privileged to be in Nutcracker with TAA. I played the part of Fritz, Clara's brother, and also danced as a soldier, Peppermint and Gingerbread. That was my first real experience with a professional theatre company and I loved every minute! Madama Butterfly with TAA was my first opera experience and it was amazing! With Ruby Slipper, I also performed in Mulan. I am now involved in TAA's Beauty and the Beast as a featured dancer which will perform later this month. I actually learned to walk in my first ballet class in Kings Dance Center in Hanford! I have been dancing ever since! When I am dancing, I feel inspired and happy. I am also an ambassador for a dance company, Sugar. This has been a fun experience and I get to promote their company and share my dance experiences with friends on Instagram.

Can you tell us about some of your latest adventures?  There seems to be a lot going on for you right now!  This summer has been filled with new, exciting experiences for me. I have auditioned for a movie which will start filming sometime this fall, I performed in a music video with Talia Perez, a new Christian artist, performed live with her in Los Angeles, and filmed the music video on top of the L.A. Athletic Club in downtown Los Angeles! That was such a crazy fun experience. Saturday night, after rehearing for Beauty in the Beast in Visalia, I attended my very first Red Carpet event in Hollywood, hosted by the producer and casting directors I am currently working with. It was an event to expose new film makers and actresses to the Hollywood elite! I also spent two days the past week filming a movie in Los Angeles. This was a UCLA Student film production where I was a classroom kid and a playground kid. The start was Zackary Arthur (The 5th Wave). I was on the movie set for two days. I met a lot of people. This summer I also had the opportunity to do some stock print modeling, and I had two professional photo shoots in Los Angeles. My mom is in negotiations for two new projects, however, I'm still waiting on those! 
 
Who should come and see TAABeauty and why?  I would encourage everyone to go experience Beauty and the Beast. It's going to be awesome. The singers are all amazing and the acting is very professional. I'm honored to be a part of this production. I think when people experience the performing arts, they can let the cares of the day away and you can relax and be pulled into the story for a couple of hours. The cast for Beauty and the Beast is the largest cast I've worked with and I'm loving getting to know so many new people. My dream is to someday have a lead part in a production so I can showcase the experiences I have had and perform for my family and friend. My dreams are coming true thanks to TAA and my parents and family who support me in this 100%.

Come meet Kaylynn "KK" and the rest of the fantastic
TAA Beauty cast this August 18-21 at the 

LJ Williams Theater in Visalia! 

For Tickets call 559-972-8417 

or go to http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2561633

TAABeauty Cast Spotlight: Lauren Chambers, "Babette"

"Into the Woods"

From mission work in Thailand to wowing us in every TAABeauty rehearsal with her hysterical and detailed performance as the French maid turned Feather Duster, Babette, Lauren Chambers throws her whole heart into everything she does, including her work on the stage!  She has been part of the Visalia performing arts community from an early age, and shared some of her thoughts on theater and life with us...

How did you get here?  Why is theater part of your life? I grew up watching old musicals, and I was mesmerized by them! The beautiful ladies in the beautiful dresses doing beautiful dances. It was all I ever wanted to do! Theater has also given me the opportunity to dance again, and has taught me a lot about confidence! There is something weirdly freeing about being someone else for a bit, it's fun!
 

"South Pacific"

Tell us about your performing arts background...I have been performing in one way or another in Visalia since I was in elementary school. Throughout my school years, I was very involved with Dance Arts, and since I've moved back to Visalia I've been enjoying working with the League of Christian Actors and Theater Arts Alliance. 

What is your favorite theater project to date? I think one of my favorite shows I've done was TAA's Young Frankenstein. The show itself is funny, but the cast made it hilarious! It was such a small cast, and most of us had worked together on other projects before, so it was like doing a show with your family. I was in the ensemble, so I had a million different parts. It was wonderful!  

What is your "day job," and what else do you do when you're not on stage?By day I am a teacher, I guess you could say it relates to theater by fact that I'm used to having an audience all day long. But really, I think that theater has helped me in my work simply because theater has helped me become a more confident person in general, in and out of my classroom. Aside from theater and work, I hardly have time for other hobbies, but I love to craft. I knit and and do other silly Pinterest-inspired things. I also love to bake pie! 

Real-life in Thailand!

Why see this production of "Beauty and the Beast?" Beauty and the Beast is a fairy tale, and fairy tales are good for the soul! Beauty and the Beast sends an important message about standing up for yourself, looking for the good in others and not judging someone simply because they may look different. I think everyone should see this show, because it really is "a tale as old as time," but our cast is giving a great interpretation to this magical story!

Dancing in TAABeauty rehearsal with Lumiere

 See Lauren as Babette the Feather Duster and the rest of the marvelous TAABeauty cast 

August 18-21 at Visalia's LJ Williams Theater
For tickets call 559-972-8417 

Or go to www.brownpapertickets.com

TAABeauty Actor Spotlight: Lesley Ogle, Featured Ensemble Member!

Theater Arts Alliance is proud to have one of the finest ensembles ever in the upcoming production of "Beauty and the Beast."  Each member of the ensemble is skilled and talented enough for leading roles, and Tulare's Lesley Ogle is no exception.  We asked her some questions about life in and out of theater and what the performing arts mean to her... 

We get to see your fabulous talent on stage, but what do you do when you're off-stage?  I am a teacher librarian in Tulare by day, helping both students and teachers with technology and library books. I love my job because it allows me to interact with so many great people every day, and when no one's around, I get to escape into a great book. Theater and singing are my passions for sure, but I have always been an avid reader and movie-watcher. I just love a great story!

Why musical theater? 

I got bit by the theater bug when I was 4 and never really wanted to stop. I did school and community shows through high school and loved every minute of it. I took a long hiatus during college and my early career to focus on that, but last year I finally got back in and have no plans of stopping. I'm happiest when I can sing; it's my favorite thing to do. Theater, specifically musicals, allows me to experience other lives, other worlds, and meet some incredible people all while getting to do my favorite thing.


Tell us about your role in the Theater Arts Alliance production of Disney's "Beauty and the Beast..."   
 My role in TAABeauty is different for me. I usually have a lead or supporting role in smaller cast shows, but TAABeauty has such a powerhouse of talent in such an overwhelming cast, I am thrilled to have the role I do. Productions like this need a solid ensemble as so many numbers are dance-driven show-stoppers with layers of voices and movement. It requires a large, very talented ensemble to replicate such a cherished world of Disney's, and from day one I knew my role was so important. How does the audience know how sweet and wonderful Belle is if they don't see me be really mean to her?  

What's next for you after TAABeauty?  
 After TAABeauty, I plan on continuing my experience in live theater. I'm auditioning for anything I can get my hands on and continuing to get better at my craft. Also, school starts soon and I'll have have to go back to work, but

that's okay. That part of my life is pretty great, too!

You told us why theater is important to you -- what about to the community in general?  Is live theater still important?
Theater is one of the oldest forms of cultural art. For literally thousands of years, talented people have been creating alternate worlds and bringing them to life for an audience. This art form is still vital to our community today as live theater allows the audience to truly FEEL! They can see real people right in front of them love, laugh, cry, die, and experience that right along with the characters. Being a part of the cast fosters confidence and social experiences and helps bring together so many people from different backgrounds and experiences to reach one common goal - an incredible live performance.

Who should come see TAABeauty?  
Everyone should come see TAA's "Beauty and the Beast!" It is a truly family-friendly show, and this cast and production team are unlike any I've worked with. The commitment level is outrageous as everyone wants this to be an experience to remember. "Beauty and the Beast" is (yep I'm saying it!) a "tale as old as time" and is loved by so many. Our interpretation will certainly not disappoint.

See Lesley and the rest of the fantastic #TAABeauty cast August 18-21 at Visalia's LJ Williams theater! 

For tickets call 559-972-8417 or visit Brown Paper Tickets Online