Interview: VITAL 5: This Weekend in Jacksonville Theatre

I'm feeling so much spring. SO MUCH. That's timely, as Finn and Lapine's lyrics relay these same musings in their emotional musical, A NEW BRAIN, opening Friday night at The 5 and Dime in downtown Jacksonville. You can read more about their production here and scoop up tickets on their website. I've kept a close eye on this show, and am incredibly excited for what director Ron Shreve and musical director Erin Barnes have put together. Josh Waller is playing the lead role of Gordon Schwinn, and I chatted with him about all things theatrical recently. Here's a little bit about Josh...

Can you pinpoint your first live theatre experience?

This is a hard one! I think it was when my grandmother bought us season tickets to the Artist Series when I was in high school, which would have made my first show...Cats. Locally however, I saw Shakespeare at the Met's MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM, Theatre Jax's INTO THE WOODS and GLASS MENAGERIE (starring Simone Aden-Reid).

What's your favorite role you've played to date?

Leo Frank in PARADE or Hedwig in HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY ITCH. It would be too difficult to choose between the two.

Do you have a preshow ritual?

If coffee or tea and lots of pacing count, yes.

What specifically draws you in to A NEW BRAIN?

The score. When the cast recording came out after I graduated from high school, this album was always on repeat. I love William Finn's music and this score contains some of his most beautiful melodies.

You're quite the presence in the world of theatre here in Jacksonville. What makes our region special for you?

The People. I love this community with all my heart, and on my worst days, they never fail to lift me up. The friendships I've made over the years are some of the most important relationships of my life. I cannot imagine a life without them.

Ok, lastly: what's your go-to guilty pleasure song?

Anything from JEKYLL AND HYDE.

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Also opening Friday is Theatre Jax's STEEL MAGNOLIAS, directed by Lee Hamby. Set at a beauty salon in Lousianna, six closely knit ladies come together to not only get their hair done, but tell their stories. Through laughter and tears, this immediately popular script is endearing and personal. Tickets are available at Theatre Jax's website, and the production runs through May 7th. I had the opportunity to speak with Sara Beth Summers-Girad, who is playing the role of Shelby, and her bubbly personality and love for theatre ooze from her words. Some of Sara Beth's thoughts...

Can you pinpoint your first live theatre experience?

Well, I essentially grew up in an auditorium! My parents met onstage in TAMING OF THE SHREW, and they have been directing my entire life. They manage the Drama Department of Baker County High School (they have for 35+ years). My first live-theatre on stage experience was as Woodstock in YOU'RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN. I made my entrance at the age of 2 in a fuzzy yellow onesie holding a marshmallow covered stick. That was the day that the stage became my home.

What's your dream role?

For the longest time it was Cinderella, but I've changed courses recently. I love Reno Sweeney in ANYTHING GOES...to belt out the final notes of "Blow, Gabriel," on a big stage? That's what dreams are made of.

What has made STEEL MAGNOLIAS special for you?

I'm from Glen St. Mary - a SMALL town - so I can say that STEEL MAGNOLIAS is unique because it's real. It hits a special note with almost every woman who sees it, but it hits hardest with those who know that kind of camaraderie. It reminds us of blessings. It reminds us that while life can be stressful, there are people who want to help assist, befriend, and guide us during life's ups and downs.

What are some of your favorite past credits?

I've loved pretty much every role I've been blessed with for different reasons, but getting the opportunity to play Elizabeth Proctor in FGC's THE CRUCIBLE, Doralee Rhodes at Theate Jax in 9-5, and most recently as Beth in MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG at ABET have been some of my faves.

Also, I know this production hasn't opened yet, but getting to share the stage with my actual mom Kelley Norman as my performance mom M'Lynn has been a wonderful experience that I will never forget.

Ok, lastly: what's your go-to guilty pleasure song?

Whatever Happened to my Part from SPAMALOT and Blow, Gabriel from ANYTHING GOES

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There are a few other notable productions playing this weekend in Jacksonville:

- RABBIT HOLE is in its final weekend at Amelia Community Theatre. This 2007 Pulitzer Prize-winning drama is an insightful examination of the tragedy, grief, and consequences of the accidental death of a young boy. The story of a young couple's loss and how it affects those around them is told with wit and honesty - and with an emphasis on the human capacity for survival and hope. Please note: The script contains some adult language inherent to the characters and situations depicted. Tickets are available here.

- DREAMGIRLS is currently playing at the Alhambra Dinner Theatre (America's longest running dinner theatre!). DREAMGIRLS follows the development, conflicts and eventual breakup of the three-member female singing group called, "The Dreams." The music is fun, the characters are familiar and the conflicts are as real and powerful as the stories you have heard about Motown's history. You will laugh and cry at the price of fame and its effect on all involved. Tickets are available here, and the show runs through May 21.

- Wednesday, April 26th, Douglas Anderson School of the Art's Performance Theatre students are holding their annual one night only showcase. I know this isn't a "weekend" show, but it's sure to be a hit, so I'm including it. Performing in their intimate black box theatre, the students' showcase will begin at 7:30 p.m. Come and see Jacksonville's incredibly talented high school players: I will not be missing this event, and you shouldn't, either. Douglas Anderson is located at 2445 San Diego Road, 32207.

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