All The Drama
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Behind the scenes of Red Mountain Theatre Company:
Meet the Cast of RMTC's Sound of Music: Amy Johnson
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010) Amy Johnson (Sister Berthe/Ensemble): Where are you from originally? If not Birmingham, what brought you here? I was born in Birmingham at UAB. My family has relocated a few times, and I spent the majority of my adolescent years on a...
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010)
Amy Johnson (Sister Berthe/Ensemble):
I was born in Birmingham at UAB. My family has relocated a few times, and I spent the majority of my adolescent years on a 10-acre farm south of Birmingham. We had several animals; horses, ducks, chickens, cats and dogs of course, and my mother even once brought home pot bellied pigs! In high school, the kids of my family were relocated to my Dad's house in Montevallo and have been in that area ever since. I attended the University of Montevallo for my undergraduate studies, receiving a BA in Theatre. Since that time, I have worked and performed in or around the Birmingham area.
What’s a typical day like for you (both when you’re performing and when you’re not in show mode)?
A typical day starts early for me! I'm usually up by 5:30 AM getting ready for the day. I work for a large financial corporation in Birmingham, and report to work by 7:15 AM every morning. I spend the majority of my day at work and then the evenings vary. In show mode, I go straight from work to rehearsal and then home to rest and recoup for the next day! On nights when I don't have rehearsal or a show, I try to practice piano or read to wind down from the day. I enjoy cooking, especially for family and friends, so I try to have a home-cooked meal a few times every week when my schedule permits it.
What’s your favorite thing(s) to do when you’re not performing?
Even when I'm not performing, I'm still thinking about the next show! I think that's the true life of all performers. I write music with a great friend of mine from college, and we enjoy getting together to practice. I usually cook a big dinner, we have friends over and just sing and play guitar all night. It's a great outlet for me when I don't have a show going on to stay creative. I learned to read at a very early age, and that has stayed with me through the years; I am always reading a few things. I like to watch movies, and I have a niece, Mia, that just turned eight that loves to sing and dance. We have a good time together.
What’s your favorite role you’ve ever played? What made it so special?
That one's tricky! I've been lucky to have a lot of different roles offered to me, so picking is pretty difficult. If I had to narrow it down, I'd probably come up with a top two: "Mrs. Phagan" in Parade and "Sally" in Lips Together, Teeth Apart. The two shows are very different by comparison; one a musical, one not. And the women could not be more different, although there is a common bond between them of loss.
Parade was an Alabama premiere with MCAT last year, which was a great honor to be able to participate in. Mrs. Phagan is a mother mourning the loss of her daughter and in her search for someone to blame and for justice, her emotions begin to take over her actions. She's an intense woman and she channels so much hatred and determination and focuses it at the one person she feels is responsible for the death of her child. The difficulty there was knowing that I didn't believe what she did, and the man she hated so much was, in real life, one of my very best friends. I never knew it could physically taxing to make yourself hate someone you love so much.
For Sally in Lips Together, Teeth Apart, a production I did while at UM, the preparation was much different. Sally is an artist. She is melancholy, struggling to have babies that never carry to term, mourning the death of her brother and his struggle with AIDS during an era where the virus was very new and was thought to be a 'gay disease.' She's also in an internal battle with herself about cheating on her husband with his friend. It's an incredible show and somehow she comes out of all that darkness in her life much stronger. It's amazing what people go through on a daily basis that the world never knows about.
What’s your dream role and why?
A dream role for me would have to be "Rona Lisa Peretti" in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, which is being done in Birmingham this fall, actually! Rona is such a great role, vocally, and an interesting character. The show is hilarious and combines two things that I love ... I have to confess that I was a complete spelling bee nerd in school. I even participated twice on a state level in the Scripps National Spelling Bee to be the finalist for the state of Alabama. How embarrassing!
What are you looking forward to most about being in The Sound of Music?
The experience is one that I've really enjoyed. It is my first RMTC show, so it has been a great opportunity to meet and work with some very talented folks and see the process through from beginning to end. I'm really looking forward to the long run of the show and to deliver such a great story to Birmingham! Many people think they know the show because they've seen the movie, but they will be surprised!
Do you have any special hidden talents? If so, what are they?
I have a license for interior painting and faux finishing. In one summer, I painted an entire house and paid my college tuition for the year with the money I made on that project.
What’s something interesting that most people wouldn’t know about you?
I come from a Von Trapp-sized family! I'm the second of seven children - three girls and four boys. Another interesting tidbit: When I was about nine and Mr. Hatcher was still running Summerfest, I remember my mother taking me and auditioning in his crowded office for a spot in their summer workshops, which were nearly full. I sang the song "Maybe" for him and since that day he dubbed me "Little Ethel," after the Broadway great, Ethel Merman. Such an honor. And, I got in the workshop!
Read more about Amy from The Shelby County Reporter
Red Mountain Theatre Company presents
The Sound of Music
Through August 1, 2010
Thursday-Saturday, 7:30 PM & Saturday-Sunday, 2:00 PM
TICKETS: 205-324-2424
www.redmountaintheatre.org
Posted on 26 July 2010 | 10:00 am
Meet the Von Trapp Children: Katie Wesler (Liesl)
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010) Katie Wesler (Liesl von Trapp): How did you get started in theatre? What’s your favorite thing about performing? I got started with theatre through my church when I was 6. After that, I performed with community theatre and on to school...
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010)
Katie Wesler (Liesl von Trapp):
I got started with theatre through my church when I was 6. After that, I performed with community theatre and on to school productions before getting started with Red Mountain Theatre Company several years ago. I love performing because I enjoying “becoming” someone else on stage and telling the story through that person’s view. I have played a variety of characters and each one has brought me new experiences for how to see the world from a different view.
What was your first experience on stage?
I played "The Artful Dodger" in OLIVER! with my church. In fact, I’ve done that role three times. When I was younger, I seemed to be cast in many more boy roles than girl roles.
What’s your favorite thing(s) to do when you’re not performing (what other activities/hobbies are you involved in)?
When I'm not on stage, I love to sing around my house, choreograph numbers to songs on the radio and I’m attempting to cook like the hosts on the food network. Oh, and I LOVE to watch Cake Boss!!
What’s your favorite role you’ve ever played? What made it so special?
There’s a tie for my favorite role that I’ve played - "Dorothy" in The Wizard of Oz and "Hunyak" in CHICAGO - which are completely opposite roles! Being Dorothy is probably a dream role for many girls and it was one of those for me as well. The choreography was so interesting and the cast was so fun, plus the entire show came together in less than three weeks of rehearsals. But then there’s Hunyak, another very fun opportunity. With CHICAGO, I had the chance to work with director Stephanie Lang, who is a former Radio City Rockette. We needed clean perfection in the dance choreography and that was probably the best - and most educational - experience I’ve ever had in a show. Plus, my part was in Hungarian, which added an additional level of complexity, as I had to learn my lines in a foreign language.
What’s a dream role you’d like to play one day?
My dream role is "Cassie" in A Chorus Line. Why? It is a role that requires strong dancing as well as singing, and her character represents the struggles that all performers experience - including auditioning all of the time to find work. Her character is so realistic and is a mature role that I would love to portray someday.
What’s the best part about being in RMTC’s The Sound of Music?
This is my last show before heading off to college and I’ve enjoyed working with Keith and the cast. I think the best part about being in the show is that I’m in a role (Liesl) that I can totally relate to. She’s in a transition time, going from being a kid to wanting to be considered an adult. She thinks she’s too old for someone to watch out for her, yet she seeks that from Maria and Rolf. As I head off to school, I’m in a similar transition and I hope to be able to portray those feelings that she has.
Watch the whole von Trapp bunch as they sing The Sound of Music story in 45 sec. (YouTube)
Red Mountain Theatre Company presents
The Sound of Music
Through August 1, 2010
Thursday-Saturday, 7:30 PM & Saturday-Sunday, 2:00 PM
TICKETS: 205-324-2424
www.redmountaintheatre.org
Posted on 23 July 2010 | 10:00 am
Meet the Von Trapp Children: Grace Reeder (Brigitta)
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010) Grace Reeder (Brigitta von Trapp): How did you get started in theatre? What’s your favorite thing about performing? I auditioned for the RMTC Summer Workshop. I love the costumes! What was your first experience on stage? The Holiday program at school...
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010)
Grace Reeder (Brigitta von Trapp):
I auditioned for the RMTC Summer Workshop. I love the costumes!
What was your first experience on stage?
The Holiday program at school when I was seven.
What’s your favorite thing(s) to do when you’re not performing (what other activities/hobbies are you involved in)?
Swimming, writing, reading, dancing, singing!
What’s your favorite role you’ve ever played? What made it so special?
In RMTC's Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat I was a sheep! We had to change very quickly and missed a whole song with the ensemble!
What’s a dream role you’d like to play one day?
I always wanted to be an orphan in Annie!
What’s the best part about being in RMTC’s The Sound of Music?
Working with professionals and young people!
Watch the whole von Trapp bunch as they sing The Sound of Music story in 45 sec. (YouTube)
Red Mountain Theatre Company presents
The Sound of Music
Through August 1, 2010
Thursday-Saturday, 7:30 PM & Saturday-Sunday, 2:00 PM
TICKETS: 205-324-2424
www.redmountaintheatre.org
Posted on 22 July 2010 | 10:00 am
Meet the Von Trapp Children: Hannah Reeder (Brigitta)
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010) Hannah Reeder (Brigitta von Trapp): How did you get started in theatre? What’s your favorite thing about performing? I went to the RMTC workshop several years ago and then I got hooked on performing! Showing my talents to lots of people...
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010)
Hannah Reeder (Brigitta von Trapp):
I went to the RMTC workshop several years ago and then I got hooked on performing! Showing my talents to lots of people who appreciate it is my favorite thing about performing.
What was your first experience on stage?
The Holiday program at school.
What’s your favorite thing(s) to do when you’re not performing (what other activities/hobbies are you involved in)?
I like to golf, swim, dance, sing and participate with the Girl Scouts.
What’s your favorite role you’ve ever played? What made it so special?
This is my favorite role so far, because it is close to my age and "Brigitta" is a sneaky smart-aleck!
What’s a dream role you’d like to play one day?
"Jane Banks" from Mary Poppins on Broadway!
What’s the best part about being in RMTC’s The Sound of Music?
Performing with others who share my love for theatre and being molded and shaped so I can be better!
Watch the whole von Trapp bunch as they sing The Sound of Music story in 45 sec. (YouTube)
Red Mountain Theatre Company presents
The Sound of Music
Through August 1, 2010
Thursday-Saturday, 7:30 PM & Saturday-Sunday, 2:00 PM
TICKETS: 205-324-2424
www.redmountaintheatre.org
Posted on 21 July 2010 | 10:00 am
Meet the Von Trapp Children: Jordan Graham (Kurt)
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010) Jordan Graham (Kurt von Trapp): How did you get started in theatre? What’s your favorite thing about performing? When I was three, we were building a new house and I went onto the deck and sang Amazing Grace for all the...
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010)
Jordan Graham (Kurt von Trapp):
When I was three, we were building a new house and I went onto the deck and sang Amazing Grace for all the workers. Everyone stopped what they were doing to listen. After I finished, I took a bow like I was on stage and everyone clapped. My mother said it was truly a musical memory. After that I was the only boy in tap & jazz for the next six years. But hey, being surrounded by girls isnt all that bad. Red Mountain Theatre Company is my home now, and I love everything about it.
What’s your favorite role you’ve ever played? What made it so special?
Every Christmas, RMTC puts together a holiday show. This past year, I got my first solo as a rapping elf ... it was so much fun and the costume was off-the-hook! All of our costumes are very nice and the ladies who fit you are so great at what they do. It makes the show.
What’s a dream role you’d like to play one day?
Any! New York is where I want to go. The Sound of Music cast has people from all over and one of my favorites is from NEW YORK!
What’s the best part about being in RMTC’s The Sound of Music?
Being a part of something so huge as The Sound of Music ... What's next? The show will be amazing. Meeting new friends and professionals in the industry is really special. Playing Kurt is fun. See ya on stage!
Watch the whole von Trapp bunch as they sing The Sound of Music story in 45 sec. (YouTube)
Red Mountain Theatre Company presents
The Sound of Music
Through August 1, 2010
Thursday-Saturday, 7:30 PM & Saturday-Sunday, 2:00 PM
TICKETS: 205-324-2424
www.redmountaintheatre.org
Posted on 20 July 2010 | 10:00 am
Meet RMTC's Von Trapp Children: Brooke Holloway (Louisa)
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010) Brooke Holloway (Louisa von Trapp): How did you get started in theatre? What’s your favorite thing about performing? I have always had an interest in performing, even when I was a little toddler. I have been performing for around nine years,...
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010)
Brooke Holloway (Louisa von Trapp):
I have always had an interest in performing, even when I was a little toddler. I have been performing for around nine years, and one of my first performances was when I was two years old! My second major step was training with Amy Murphy, I starting working with her when I was seven. After that, she told me all about Red Mountain Theatre Company. That year I started doing their summer workshop. As soon as I turned nine (as young as you can be to tryout!) I tried out for their youngest year-round group, Previews. I have been in that group for two years now and I will be back this year! My favorite thing about performing is getting to be on stage and having all eyes on you!
What was your first experience on stage?
My first experience on stage was at a relative's wedding, I was two and an unexpected performer for the audience. During the reception I hopped up on stage and started singing any song I knew! I bowed after every song I sung and the audience clapped. It turned out that they weren't clapping just for me though, they were clapping for the band that was playing behind me on the stage!
What’s your favorite thing(s) to do when you’re not performing (what other activities/hobbies are you involved in)?
I love to sing and dance ... this year will be my fifth year studying with Amy Murphy. I will also be taking dance at Steeple Arts, Lauren Marsh and Jackie O'Neal.
What’s your favorite role you’ve ever played? What made it so special?
The angel in my church play because a lot of my friends were in the play with me.
What’s a dream role you’d like to play one day?
I dream of playing "Elphaba" in Wicked. I love this role because she has awesome songs she gets to sing and I can relate to her character.
What’s the best part about being in RMTC’s The Sound of Music?
The best part is knowing that we wont look ridiculous onstage because we have a great director, assistant director, music director, stage manager, assistant stage mangers and everyone else working on the play!
Watch the whole von Trapp bunch as they sing The Sound of Music story in 45 sec. (YouTube)
Red Mountain Theatre Company presents
The Sound of Music
July 15-August 1, 2010
Thursday-Saturday, 7:30 PM & Saturday-Sunday, 2:00 PM
TICKETS: 205-324-2424
www.redmountaintheatre.org
Posted on 19 July 2010 | 10:00 am
Meet RMTC's Von Trapp Children: Patrick Kolar (Friedrich)
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010) Patrick Kolar (Friedrich von Trapp): How did you get started in theatre? What’s your favorite thing about performing? I got started when I lived in Idaho (for one year) - with Christian Youth Theater. What was your first experience on stage?...
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010)
Patrick Kolar (Friedrich von Trapp):
I got started when I lived in Idaho (for one year) - with Christian Youth Theater.
What was your first experience on stage?
I got to play the part of "Edmund" in Narnia. It was so much fun because my sister, Olivia, was the "White Witch." We had a lot of fun together.
What’s your favorite thing(s) to do when you’re not performing (what other activities/hobbies are you involved in)?
I love to play football, play video games and play the electric guitar.
What’s your favorite role you’ve ever played? What made it so special?
I loved playing "Mowgli" in Jungle Book. Dancing with all the animals on stage was so fun. We got to act a little crazy in that play!
What’s a dream role you’d like to play one day?
I'm not sure ... my mom wants me to be the "Phantom" in Phantom of the Opera one day ... that would be neat!
What’s the best part about being in RMTC’s The Sound of Music?
Just having fun with all the kids. I've made a lot of good friends with my von Trapp siblings!
Watch the whole von Trapp bunch as they sing The Sound of Music story in 45 sec. (YouTube)
Red Mountain Theatre Company presents
The Sound of Music
July 15-August 1, 2010
Thursday-Saturday, 7:30 PM & Saturday-Sunday, 2:00 PM
TICKETS: 205-324-2424
www.redmountaintheatre.org
Posted on 16 July 2010 | 10:00 am
Meet RMTC's Von Trapp Children: Savannah Hammick (Louisa)
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010) Savannah Hammick (Louisa von Trapp): How did you get started in theatre? What’s your favorite thing about performing? From the very beginning, musical theatre has always been a passion for me. I first started at home creating shows, writing my own lyrics/tunes and...
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010)
Savannah Hammick (Louisa von Trapp):
From the very beginning, musical theatre has always been a passion for me. I first started at home creating shows, writing my own lyrics/tunes and persuading my mom, dad, my oldest brother, Nana, Ed-dad, Mimi and friends to act in roles. I would like to thank my parents and other cast members for going along with my little productions. My motto has always been “Life Is a Musical,” as we would sing around the house for fun, spontaneously and to learn things, too. I also would like to thank Mr. and Mrs. Stephenson and Mr. and Mrs. Roskam for all of their encouragement and guidance, later leading me to get invited to NYC to audition for Annie on Broadway. My dreams are coming true as I move forward in my career.
My favorite thing about performing would be stepping into my character’s shoes and using my imagination to relate to this character’s specific situation. In this performance, I am playing the part of "Louisa," a mischievous little girl in the von Trapp family from Austria.
What was your first experience on stage?
Our home stage was my debut with family and friends for audience as well as cast at times. I picked out the cast members and it was one very successful production after another; of course, I had the lead role. Then, I took acting camp at OLV one summer; so, in Quack, my first actual public appearance, I was a duck! Shout out to Mr. Bridges, who co-directed the theatre program with my mom at OM IS and also performs in this show!
What’s your favorite thing(s) to do when you’re not performing (what other activities/hobbies are you involved in)?
I greatly enjoy tennis, painting artwork, gardening, cooking, cutting hair, babysitting, participating in public speaking, and most importantly, I am involved in ministries at Double Oak Community Church, SSCC and other local churches.
What’s your favorite role you’ve ever played? What made it so special?
“Esther” as the lead role in the show. It was special because the role modeled a person of righteousness and a strong person of faith. My directors, Mrs. Sue and Mrs. Sandy were terrific mentors, and I learned so much for "such a time as this!" The music was beautiful in the show, and the lyrics still influence me today.
What’s a dream role you’d like to play one day?
"Maria" on Broadway in The Sound of Music.
What’s the best part about being in RMTC’s The Sound of Music?
Roger and Hammerstein’s The Sound of Music has always been my favorite musical! Not only that, but all of the actors and staff at RMTC have worked so hard, and I look forward to the performances. I know it will be an astounding show!
Watch the whole von Trapp bunch as they sing The Sound of Music story in 45 sec. (YouTube)
Red Mountain Theatre Company presents
The Sound of Music
July 15-August 1, 2010
Thursday-Saturday, 7:30 PM & Saturday-Sunday, 2:00 PM
TICKETS: 205-324-2424
www.redmountaintheatre.org
Posted on 15 July 2010 | 10:00 am
Meet RMTC's Von Trapp Children: Annie Norris (Marta)
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010) Annie Norris (Marta von Trapp): How did you get started in theatre? What’s your favorite thing about performing? When I was 7, my mom signed me up for the summer junior workshop at RMTC. I loved it so much, I did it...
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010)
Annie Norris (Marta von Trapp):
When I was 7, my mom signed me up for the summer junior workshop at RMTC. I loved it so much, I did it for another 4 years! My favorite thing about performing is probably getting to sing, dance and act on stage!
What was your first experience on stage?
When I was four, I danced in the Peter Pan Ballet at the BJCC. I loved dancing on stage so much, I did it again the following year when I was a mouse in The Nutcracker.
What’s your favorite thing(s) to do when you’re not performing (what other activities/hobbies are you involved in)?
My favorite things to do when I'm not performing are swimming, hanging out with my friends, reading and writing.
What’s your favorite role you’ve ever played? What made it so special?
I am very excited to be playing "Marta" in The Sound of Music! It makes it so special because I get to play a 7 year old when I am actually 11! :)
What’s a dream role you’d like to play one day?
I would love to play "Molly" in the musical Annie, or "Glenda" in Wicked!
What’s the best part about being in RMTC’s The Sound of Music?
I get to act on stage and express myself!
Watch the whole von Trapp bunch as they sing The Sound of Music story in 45 sec. (YouTube)
Red Mountain Theatre Company presents
The Sound of Music
July 15-August 1, 2010
Thursday-Saturday, 7:30 PM & Saturday-Sunday, 2:00 PM
TICKETS: 205-324-2424
www.redmountaintheatre.org
Posted on 14 July 2010 | 10:00 am
Meet RMTC's Von Trapp Children: Aidan Alford (Marta)
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010) Aidan Alford (Marta von Trapp): How did you get started in theatre? What’s your favorite thing about performing? I did my first dance performance when I was 3 years old and I was in my first musical theatre show when I...
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010)
Aidan Alford (Marta von Trapp):
I did my first dance performance when I was 3 years old and I was in my first musical theatre show when I was 7 years old, with RMTC's The Wizard of Oz. My favorite thing about performing is working with other actors.
What’s your favorite thing(s) to do when you’re not performing (what other activities/hobbies are you involved in)?
I like to play outside and play piano.
What’s your favorite role you’ve ever played? What made it so special?
So far "Marta" in The Sound of Music.
What’s a dream role you’d like to play one day?
Leisl von Trapp
What’s the best part about being in RMTC’s The Sound of Music?
Getting to work with the cast.
Watch the whole von Trapp bunch as they sing The Sound of Music story in 45 sec. (YouTube)
Red Mountain Theatre Company presents
The Sound of Music
July 15-August 1, 2010
Thursday-Saturday, 7:30 PM & Saturday-Sunday, 2:00 PM
TICKETS: 205-324-2424
www.redmountaintheatre.org
Posted on 13 July 2010 | 10:00 am
Meet RMTC's Von Trapp Children: Maggie Tompkins (Gretl)
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010) Maggie Tompkins (Gretl von Trapp): How did you get started in theatre? What’s your favorite thing about performing? My kindergarten music teacher suggested I audition to be in the school play. I got the part! My favorite part is being able...
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010)
Maggie Tompkins (Gretl von Trapp):
My kindergarten music teacher suggested I audition to be in the school play. I got the part! My favorite part is being able to make people watching the show happy.
What was your first experience on stage?
My first stage experience was when I was three. I had a beautiful pink tutu and loved every minute of being on stage for my ballet recital.
What’s your favorite thing(s) to do when you’re not performing (what other activities/hobbies are you involved in)?
I like to play games with my sister and go to baseball games.
What’s your favorite role you’ve ever played?
Well, the only other role I've had was a tree so I think I may have to pick "Gretl."
What’s a dream role you’d like to play one day?
"Molly" in Annie and "Chip" in Beauty and the Beast
What’s the best part about being in RMTC’s The Sound of Music?
I love it all! But my favorite part has been working with so many great actors. Some of them even make me laugh like Mr. George (who plays Captain von Trapp).
Watch the whole von Trapp bunch as they sing The Sound of Music story in 45 sec. (YouTube)
Red Mountain Theatre Company presents
The Sound of Music
July 15-August 1, 2010
Thursday-Saturday, 7:30 PM & Saturday-Sunday, 2:00 PM
TICKETS: 205-324-2424
www.redmountaintheatre.org
Posted on 12 July 2010 | 10:00 am
Meet RMTC's Von Trapp Children: Caroline Bates (Gretl)
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010) Caroline Bates (Gretl von Trapp): How did you get started in theatre? What’s your favorite thing about performing? My preschool music teacher called my mommy to ask her if I could sing some solos of bible verses on a DVD she...
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010)
Caroline Bates (Gretl von Trapp):
My preschool music teacher called my mommy to ask her if I could sing some solos of bible verses on a DVD she was making. I then started taking voice from Amy Murphy and knew I would love to be on stage. I went to New York to audition for the National Broadway Tour of Annie. While I was there, I also got to do lots of other great things like ride the ferris wheel inside Toys ‘R Us and celebrate my 6th birthday at the “American Girl” doll store. It was so much fun, so I asked my mommy if I could audition in Birmingham. My favorite thing about performing is having fun, making other people happy and doing it whole-heartedly.
What was your first experience on stage?
Singing a solo at my dance recital last year. I sang “Tomorrow” from Annie in front of 1,000 people. It was a lot of fun!
What’s your favorite thing(s) to do when you’re not performing (what other activities/hobbies are you involved in)?
When I’m not performing, I like to spend time with my family and play with my friends. I love swimming, riding bikes and playing with my Barbie dolls. I have a very big “stuffed animal” collection and am working on my “American Girl” doll collection. I also take piano, jazz/tap and ballet.
What’s your favorite role you’ve ever played? What made it so special?
This is my very first role and that is why it is so special. I am so excited to play "Gretl!"
What’s a dream role you’d like to play one day?
I would love to play the role of “Molly” from Annie on Broadway.
What’s the best part about being in RMTC’s The Sound of Music?
Everything! I love rehearsing with all the other fun kids and staying up past my bedtime! It is so fun to play "Gretl" because I loved her in the movie.
Watch the whole von Trapp bunch as they sing The Sound of Music story in 45 sec. (YouTube)
Red Mountain Theatre Company presents
The Sound of Music
July 15-August 1, 2010
Thursday-Saturday, 7:30 PM & Saturday-Sunday, 2:00 PM
TICKETS: 205-324-2424
www.redmountaintheatre.org
Posted on 9 July 2010 | 10:00 am
Meet the Cast of RMTC's Sound of Music: Amanda Maxwell
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010) Amanda Maxwell (Ensemble): Where are you from originally? If not Birmingham, what brought you here? I have lived most of my life in Tuscaloosa and remained there through graduate school at UA. I moved to Birmingham in September 2009 for a...
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010)
Amanda Maxwell (Ensemble):
I have lived most of my life in Tuscaloosa and remained there through graduate school at UA. I moved to Birmingham in September 2009 for a clinical fellowship at UAB in speech/language pathology. This city offers a myriad of opportunities that I anticipate being able to explore.
What’s a typical day like for you (both when you're performing and when you’re not in show mode)?
On a typical day I will usually be pretending to be an organized person … but I don’t think anyone is deceived! I have a variety of interests, but for this summer, my off-stage energies are invested in furthering my young career as a pediatric speech/language pathologist.
What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re not performing?
Probably thinking about performing! When I’m not daydreaming or working, I can usually be found reading. My interests are widely scattered and it is a joy to constantly be learning new things and/or visiting new worlds through the printed word.
What’s your favorite role you’ve ever played? What made it so special?
This will have been my first … unless childhood church musicals count. I’ve enjoyed performing for my family/friends or in a larger musical gathering.
What’s your dream role and why?
Definitely My Fair Lady‘s "Eliza Doolittle." As a communication specialist and a literature aficionado, I relish the blend of British wit, fabulous music and dialectal Cockney speech sounds. It’s really too delightful!
What are you looking forward to most about being in The Sound of Music?
I’m a novice to the world of theatre and look forward having my ears open and mouth shut to take it all in.
Do you have any special hidden talents? If so, what are they?
Well, I did just finish a belly-dancing class … and I think that is a talent that will remain a hidden one.
What’s something interesting that most people wouldn’t know about you?
I sometimes transcribe speech sounds into the International Phonetic Alphabet for fun …
Red Mountain Theatre Company presents
The Sound of Music
July 15-August 1, 2010
Thursday-Saturday, 7:30 PM & Saturday-Sunday, 2:00 PM
TICKETS: 205-324-2424
www.redmountaintheatre.org
Posted on 7 July 2010 | 10:00 am
Meet the Cast of RMTC's Sound of Music: Mike Bratton
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010) Mike Bratton (Admiral von Schreiber): Where are you from originally? If not Birmingham, what brought you here? I was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, and lived there until 3 1/2 years ago, when my wife's job prompted us to relocate...
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010)
Mike Bratton (Admiral von Schreiber):
I was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, and lived there until 3 1/2 years ago, when my wife's job prompted us to relocate our family to the Birmingham area.
What’s a typical day like for you (both when you're performing and when you’re not in show mode)?
Being an actor, an out-of-work radio personality and a voice talent, a typical day for me is looking for my next gig - whether it's on stage, on the air, or in some other venue, like TV commercial and/or radio voiceover work. I'm also preparing to attend UAB to finish some long-time educational goals. And many days I play the role of "soccer Dad" for my son and daughter. But I love show mode! This time will be interesting (to say the least), since getting into character will mean figuring out how to invade Poland.
What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re not performing?
Enjoying a nice Italian meal with my wife, Jennifer; coaching our 11-year-old daughter, Emma, for whatever audition she has next; and working with our 6-year-old son, Ben, on throwing a football in a tight spiral. Those three people are my best blessings, no doubt about it, so most of my favorite things involve them.
What’s your favorite role you’ve ever played? What made it so special?
Your last role's usually a favorite, and mine certainly was. I played "Sheriff Will" in BFT's production of Bus Stop, a role I'd always wanted since I first read the play back in college; Ward Haarbauer was nice enough to cast me without even knowing how much I wanted that part. Will's a fixer, a Dad of sorts to everyone around him; he brings Bo and Cherry together, and he has one of the great - and most understated - lines in American theatre: "Montana's not a bad place, Miss."
What’s your dream role and why?
There are a few. It's never worked out for me to do any Shakespeare yet, so I'm hopeful for that; personally, I think I'd make a fine "Falstaff," and "Lear" would be a blast. On a less-highbrow note, when someone writes Elvis: The Vegas Years, I have to get the title role in that - as well as the starring role in a musical that's begging to be written: Hi, Billy Mays Here! I like making people laugh, and I like playing (as my son would say) the "bad guy," too.
What are you looking forward to most about being in The Sound of Music?
Besides the uplifting story and the timeless musical score, I'm looking forward to the camaraderie. Having done a few shows here in Birmingham, I've made a number of friends, and it's great to be able to spend time with them again.
Do you have any special hidden talents? If so, what are they?
1) I'm something of a dialectician, with over 120 different impersonations and dialects on my list.
2) My wife likes my cooking.
3) Everyone in my family says I'm a great snuggler.
4) I can discuss politics with my friends - yet they remain my friends. How is it I don't have a talk show?
What’s something interesting that most people wouldn’t know about you?
I'm a licensed Southern Baptist minister. Although it's nice that, after awhile, people start to pick up on that.
Red Mountain Theatre Company presents
The Sound of Music
July 15-August 1, 2010
Thursday-Saturday, 7:30 PM & Saturday-Sunday, 2:00 PM
TICKETS: 205-324-2424
www.redmountaintheatre.org
Posted on 6 July 2010 | 10:00 am
Meet the Cast of RMTC's Sound of Music: Kristi Tingle Higginbotham
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010) Kristi Tingle Higginbotham (Elsa Schraeder): Where are you from originally? If not Birmingham, what brought you here? Birmingham What’s a typical day like for you (both when you’re performing and when you’re not in show mode)? A typical day is like...
Meet the Cast of Red Mountain Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music (July 15-August 1, 2010)
Kristi Tingle Higginbotham (Elsa Schraeder):
Birmingham
What’s a typical day like for you (both when you’re performing and when you’re not in show mode)?
A typical day is like any mom … cooking, cleaning and driving to football, basketball, or baseball. Show mode is a whole different thing. My
whole schedule, from eating to sleeping, changes!
What’s your favorite thing(s) to do when you’re not performing?
Cooking and sipping chardonnay in my courtyard-thinking, “Thank goodness I don’t have rehearsal tonight!”
What’s your favorite role you’ve ever played? What made it so special?
My top 5 are:
Opening Night of CATS – I got a standing ovation during the show!
Evita – what a great role
Grey Gardens – what a challenge playing both women
Singing with the Las Vegas Symphony – biggest audience I’ve had
Sentimental Journey: The Rosemary Clooney Songbook – written for me by Summerfest (now RMTC), I still get compliments on it and the CD!
What are you looking forward to most about being in The Sound of Music?
Having a small principal role!
Do you have any special hidden talents? If so, what are they?
If I couldn’t do this, I would do something in the food industry!
What’s something interesting that most people wouldn’t know about you?
I was up for the Judy Garland role in Meet Me in St. Louis on Broadway, but then I was crossing the street and was run over by a car so that blew my chance! It took a year to recover, and the first time I was back onstage was The Sound of Music (’89) with Summerfest. I was Maria!
Red Mountain Theatre Company presents
The Sound of Music
July 15-August 1, 2010
Thursday-Saturday, 7:30 PM & Saturday-Sunday, 2:00 PM
TICKETS: 205-324-2424
www.redmountaintheatre.org
Posted on 29 June 2010 | 10:00 am