Belfry Theatre during FernFest – Saturday, June 18
›› Erin Macklem
This past March it dawned on me that I have been working in Fernwood for over ten years! I consider this to be a major milestone, especially in this day and age where job security and attention spans often wane. But why would I leave? I work in the best neighbourhood ever, and I’ve made so many great memories. I remember having never tasted a mulberry until I happened upon them one day in the Spring Ridge Commons Food Garden. My daughter, who goes to the Fernwood Community Daycare, can’t wait for it to be summer so she can stuff her face with them (Yum!).
As an added bonus, I have the best job ever! As the Belfry Theatre’s Artistic Associate & Outreach Coordinator some of my exciting duties include new play development, community engagement, working with youth, and organizing auditions – just to name a few.
This season, together with composer Brad L’Écuyer, I will have the great pleasure of combining all these aspects of my job, along with my love of writing and the neighbourhood of Fernwood. In December, the Belfry will present the premiere of our family musical – a play that celebrates music, community connection, and light in the darkest days of winter. That being said, I need your help!
This Little Light is a play written especially for this neighbourhood, shining a light on some of the wonderful quirks and qualities of Fernwood. It will feature a cast of senior students from the Canadian College of the Performing Arts, choirs of students from our neighbourhood schools, and YOU!
Yes, you.
During FernFest we will be holding auditions for the role of Very Special Guest Stars. These roles will be played by someone different each night, so chances are if you audition, you’ll land the part! These guest stars are not required to sing or memorize lines, all you need to do is be willing to come and play. It is called a “play” after all!
So bring your friends and family to the Belfry during FernFest to audition for your fifteen minutes of fame, engage in some family fun such as mask making, and take a backstage tour if you’d like a peak behind the scenes.
I’m grateful to be your neighbour and look forward to meeting you!
