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

TAABeauty Cast Spotlight: Joe Harding, "Monsiuer D'Arque"

 

Joe Harding is undeniably one of the best character actors in the Central Valley.  A mainstay of Encore Theater Company in Tulare, we are lucky to have him part of TAA's Beauty and the Beast!

These are some of his thoughts on his upcoming role...

Who do you play in Beauty and the Beast and how is he important to the story?  
I am the character Monsieur D’Arque, the insane asylum director. He comes into the show at the point where Gaston needs help convincing Belle to marry him. For a price, D’Arque agrees to collect and send Belle’s father, Maurice, to “reside” in the Maison Des Lunes. Along with Gaston and Le Fou, D’Arque completes the Unholy Trinity or the Three Musketeers of Mayhem. (Insert diabolical plot laugh here). 

This is not a character that matches your personality -- is that fun? Challenging?
First off, I will take that as an immense compliment; although, many at work would say I was “type cast”. The challenge and fun of theater is to do something or act differently than you normally would. I hope to radiate so much sinister evil through voice and mannerisms, Gaston will start looking like a choir boy. Come and see for yourself. 

 What other roles have you played recently?

Over the last 16 months, I have been in 7 shows playing a wide variety of characters. Where else except theater can you get to pretend you are a straight-laced Navy officer or an intoxicated member of a wedding party or a mysterious Christmas party guest with an eye patch and a cape or an honest and sincere Bingo announcer or a farcical Scrooge or the Grinch in a professional latex mask? 


What are your all time favorites and what is on your "bucket list? 
Every role I end up in becomes my all-time favorite. I used to have a pretty long bucket list of shows and roles but over time I have had to eliminate some choice roles like the Elephant Bird in Seussical, Kenickie in Grease and Benjamin in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. I am at the point in my community theater and semi-professional stage career where I have a deep appreciation for everyone that contributes to make a show come to life.

The audience only gets to see a fraction of those that are responsible for the magic to happen. I truly enjoy the “bucket cast and crew” where everyone joins an extended family and we all get to share each other’s triumphs as well as a sympathetic ear or shoulder when times get tough around the theater or in life. 

What else do you do with your life when you're not on stage? 
Weren’t you paying attention? I am always on stage. As a math and history teacher for Visalia Unified School District, I put on 3 shows daily for my students, entertaining over a hundred enthusiastic teenagers. Most days after school, I also coach our high school tennis team. That keeps me busy right up to rehearsal for my current show. 

Why is live theater important to you personally and why is it important to the community?  

Joe as Uncle Drosselmeyer in TAA's Nutcracker Ballet

For me, theater is a great hobby. I enjoy the challenge of learning lines, choreography, and music. I believe it is important to the community to support our young artists and encourage them to pursue their dreams. Our area is full of talented young singers, dancers and performers; we do not have to travel far to see high quality live theater on a regular basis. 

Who should come to this show and why? 
I think you should come to show ONLY if you are a KID, have a KID, know a KID, were a KID, think like a KID, or wanna be a KID. Just KIDding! It’s for everyone. It’s Disney. It’s a Theater Arts Alliance production. TAA does not do routine or boring. Memories will be made; experiences will be had. You will be entertained!

Come see Joe and the rest of the phenomenal Beauty and the Beast cast this August 18-21 at the LJ Williams Theater in Visalia 
Tickets at:  http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2561633 or call 559-972-8417

#TAABeauty Cast Spotlight: Seth Vazquez, "Gaston"

Introducing Seth Vazquez, "Gaston" in TAA's upcoming production of Beauty and the Beast!
Seth Vazquez is an accomplished and well-established actor and singer in the Central Valley.  In roles as diverse as the thoughtful and romantic Lieutenant Cable in South Pacific to the zealous and passionate Enjolras in Les Miserables, Seth brings a strength and excitement to every stage!  We asked Seth a few questions as he prepares for "Gaston."

Audiences will get to know you on stage -- what do you do the rest of the time?
By day, I am an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), either on a ambulance or in a hospital ER.  The biggest drive in my life is helping those who are experiencing possibly the worst moments of their lives. As an adrenaline junkie, quick thinking and fast interventions are like second nature to me, so much so that I'm in the process of advancing my education at Fresno state in hopes of becoming an Emergency Room Physicians Assistant (PA) so that I will be able to help more people then ever possible.

How did you get your start in theater?  I started doing theater based on a dare, funny enough. A girlfriend in high school had been trying to convince me to audition for the school musical but I just couldn't bring myself to do so. In fact, I waited until the last 10 minutes of the audition process to reluctantly walk in, but I am sure glad I did. Being up on stage, being someone else, is something that really can't be explained to another: it has to be experienced! For me, the feeling I get on stage is addictive, I think that's what keeps bringing me back to the stage. No matter where I go in life I know that as long as I have a voice and a body to be in, I will find a stage to be on.

Tell us about the character you play in Beauty and the Beast -- Gaston.

I have always found Gaston to be unique in the realm of Disney villains. Where others mirror their horrible intentions on their exterior, Gaston is physically attractive and really drives the

phrase, "don't judge a book by its cover" home. What really drove me to him is his character arch. In the beginning, Gaston is rude, narcissistic, and chauvinist yet somehow remains charming to the audience. Yet as the show progresses his once charming nature morphs into one of malice and jealousy which ultimately drives him to become the villain of the piece.
Gaston is important to the show because I believe he represents the kind of villain we each can become. It's sometimes easy to let your pride get out of control and to think we deserve only the best, as Gaston frequently states. Where Belle represents whole, complete beauty and the Beast represents beauty on the inside, Gaston is extremely important to the message of "beauty is found within" due to his beautiful exterior but not so beautiful interior.


Why live theater?  Theater for me is something that I can always look forward to, it's something

Seth as "Enjolras" in the Fresno Grand Opera
production of "Les Miserables"

that no matter what troubles or obstacles in life I may be facing, I know that in theater and on the stage I can forget about all the outside world and just enjoy what the cast has spent so many so many painstaking hours preparing for the audience.
I believe theater should be a mirror to life. When one goes to the theater to see a performance I believe that it is our job as actors to not only entertain them, but to move them in a way that no other medium can, to make them feel different about the world by having seen our show. I know that is what I strive for every time I step on a stage. And Beauty and the Beast will be no exception -- prepare to cry all kinds of tears, audience!

Who is this show for?  Who should come see "Beauty and the Beast?"
If you live in California, come see this show!!! This cast will represent some of the premiere actors and singer the region has to offer. Children of all ages would love to experience the wonderful magic and touching message of Beauty and the Beast in LIVE ACTION right before your eyes! From the spoons to Belle herself, each cast and crew member has one goal, to make you, the audience, laugh, cry, and experience the magic that is a Disney spectacular. So "be our guest" and discover the true nature of beauty this August only at the LJ Williams Theater!

Come see Seth and the rest of the Beauty and the Beast cast August 18-21 at the LJ Williams Theater in Visalia!  Tickets at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2561633

TAA Frankenstein Artist Spotlight: Brooke Rogers as Elizabeth Benning!

TAA is so excited to have amazing actress Brooke Rogers join us on stage this season!  An incredibly versatile actress, Brooke is stunning in serious and period pieces, but in this comic romp her sparkling wit will have everyone rolling in the aisles as she portrays Elizabeth Benning, Frederick Frankenstein's "madcap fiancee!"

"I'd say any adults with a sense of humor should see Young Frankenstein and have a great time, and adults without a sense of humor should see it so they can get one!"



 We asked Brooke a few more questions about her life in theater and current project... read her other thoughts below!

 1) What roles have you played in recent years and what are your all time favorites?  I just finished playing Anna in The King and I at COS and had an amazing time. It was the first musical I had done in YEARS and the fact that I got to be in such a classic show playing one of the roles I have always wanted to play made it extra special. A couple years before that, I did The Glass Menagerie as Laura, which was another dream time. I'd love to do that show again, I love it so much! I got to be both Belle and Mrs.Potts, which was awesome. At CAL STATE FULLERTON, I had an incredible experience in being an ensemble show called The Spoon River Project as well as The Laramie Project. Both let me explore many diverse characters and it was not only exciting, but it was provided great growth.

2) How is Elizabeth Benning the same/different from any of these? Does she present any particular challenges or fun for you? Elizabeth is SO different from most roles I've played!! It's one of the reasons I was so stoked to take it on, apart from the fact that it's Madeline Kahn's character in the movie. I've played big, out-there characters like Miss. Hannigan in Annie and Nanny in Baby with the Bathwater (who I think is the most Elizabeth-like role I've had). It's going to be hard letting myself be as big and bold as I can be! I'm so freaking excited. She's definitely the dirtiest broad I've ever played, that's for sure. BRING IT ON!

3) Why Theater? Is this kind of art important for the community? Yes yes yes yes yes yes yes. I've seen theater inspire many people, may it be backstage, onstage, or in the audience. The theater community goes past just the cast and crew. The community is incomplete without an audience, so being able to be a part of a show and connect the outside world with the artistic world is an honor, and from the audience point of view, it's an honor to be invited into the story being told.

4) Why see Young Frankenstein?   Um... because it's hysterical. Fans of the movie will get to see many beloved moments live onstage. Even those who haven't seen the movie will have a blast. It has a definite melodramatic element which makes the site even funnier! I'd say any adults with a sense of humor should see it and have a great time, and adults without a sense of humor should see it so they can get one!

Come see Brooke and the rest of the incredible #TAAFrankenstein cast May 26th-28th at the Main Street Theater in Visalia!  
For tickets, call Kym at 559-972-8417 
or go to http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2540771

TAA Butterfly Spotlight: Ensemble Member Brittany Uggla!

Meet Brittany Uggla! Her lovely voice and unfailingly positive personality are assets to every cast she is in, and she brings a huge amount of focus and energy to her role in the ensemble. We are so glad she is part of TAA Butterfly.  Here are her thoughts on Madama Butterfly and her work in theater as well as in the "real world!"

What brought you to TAA Butterfly?
I decided to join the Butterfly cast because I thought it would be a great experience, challenging, and fun! This is my first opera and now I can take what I have learned in voice lessons to the stage.

You've done several shows -- what is your favorite part of the rehearsal process?
My favorite part of the rehearsal process is the journey. Being in a production you get to see it from the beginning and watch it slowly transform from "some people singing" to a spectacular production!

How is this production different from other theater projects you've done?
Madama Butterfly is different from other musical productions that I have participated in that it is completely sung in Italian. I had to do some research to figure out what the characters were saying.

What is your favorite section?
My favorite section to sing is "Cio-Cio-San!" where Butterfly's uncle crashes the wedding and we all turn against her.

What is your "day job?" 
My day job is I work at College of the Sequoias in Accounts Receivable. I am also getting ready to apply for a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy at Fresno Pacific and hope to one day get certified as a drama/art therapist.

Other interests?
My hobbies other then performing are anything and everything in the arts from photography to make up design to painting to making random videos for fun.

What is your next theater project?
I am not sure what my next theater project will be. I got married during the summer and have been busy adjusting to married life but I'm sure I'll be involved in another production soon.

See Brittany and the rest of the #TAAButterfly cast tear up the stage on March 4th and 6th at the Main Street Theater in Visalia! 
Tickets at Brown Paper Tickets: Madama Butterfly

TAA Butterfly Spotlight -- Lauren Farris, "La Madre"

 
 Lauren Farris' crystal soprano tone and perfectly centered pitch make her a favorite in the Tulare County area for some of the most difficult classical works.  Performing works as diverse as coloratura opera repertoire to Bach's St. John's Passion, Lauren is always riveting and beautiful.  Here are her thoughts on performing with the Theater Arts Alliance in Puccini's masterwork, Madama Butterfly...


What made you decide to join the Butterfly cast?

I’ll pretty much sing anything that Puccini has written, given the chance! His music is what made me fall in love with opera over fifteen years ago! I was gifted a vintage copy of the Prima Donna album when I was in high school, and as I was flipping through the book I came across a piece by Puccini and I’ve been hooked ever since.

What is your vocal and theater training?
I have a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance and have a diverse performance background- I’ve been cast in lead roles in straight plays as well as musical works and enjoy both, immensely. Along with performing, I’ve been a musical director and/or accompanist for several performances as well. I enjoy being on both sides of the performance process.

What is your favorite part of a rehearsal process?
I really love the initial sight-reading part of rehearsal- I enjoy a musical challenge and testing myself. I also really enjoy the hustle at the end of the process where you’re not sure if everything is going to come together in time and then somehow, it always does!

How is Butterfly different and/or the same as other shows you've done?
I’ve not participated in any local opera performances since moving back to Visalia, so this will be my first one here in town! Although I’ve sung Puccini in recital settings, I’ve never performed even as much as a scene from one of his operas.

What is your favorite section of this opera?
My favorite part is Butterfly's “un bel di vedremo” aria because it’s absolutely magical.

What is your "day job" and other hobbies in life?
My “day job” is teaching voice and piano in various venues. I teach private lessons, I am on staff as a voice teacher at the Ruby Slipper Performing Arts Academy, and also an Associate Voice Teacher for College of the Sequoias. I’m an old soul so in my free time I enjoy sewing, needlework, designing and creating. I also have an online business where I source and resell vintage treasures!

What is your next musical project?
I will be performing as a soloist for the COS Chamber Chorale’s performance of Carmina Burana in May and as a soloist for Poulenc’s Gloria with the TAA in June. I’m really looking forward to both!

 Hear Lauren's beautiful voice and the rest of the #TAAButterfly cast March 4th and 6th at the Main Street Theater in Visalia!
Tickets at:  Brown Paper Tickets: Madama Butterfly