Kristen Finlay – Page 14 – Walterdale Theatre

Meet the Cast of FOLLIES! Christina O’Dell is Young Heidi and Sound Op.!

What is your role in this production? I am doing double duty this show; onstage I am playing Young Heidi, the recollected self of a once famous operetta star, and then as soon as I am offstage I scoot down to the booth to take my place as the show’s sound operator. It’s my first time on the tech crew, which is very exciting! It’s also likely the first time a tech will be dressed a gown and tiara in the booth…

What is your background in theatre? At Walterdale? After having basically grown up onstage, I took a 6 hiatus from theatre while I was at university. I returned to performing after finishing my masters degree, and Follies will actually be my 18th show since graduating 6 years ago. I’m beyond thrilled to be back at the Walterdale this time around too; it’s my third show here, and it always feels like coming home!

What brought you out for this production? Barb, our lovely director, was the one who brought me to this show. Initially she just needed a sound operator, and as I was very interested in learning about the technical side of things, I jumped at the chance. As the process unfolded, she ended up needing a soprano and also someone to do a bit of tap dancing, so I jumped into those roles as well; it really is quite exciting having both an onstage and an offstage presence in this show!

This show is about theatre and nostalgia – got any good theatre stories? What do you love about doing theatre? Honestly I love the sense of play that is inherent to theatre. As adults we have so few opportunities to play and engage in story telling and make-believe! As for wild theatre stories: I was was once in a show called Titanic the Musical, and before one of our matinees a massive snow-storm triggered a power outage that resulted in our curtain time being delayed……we ended up having to cut half an hour from Act 2 on the fly; the Titanic sank very abruptly that day!

What has been the most challenging part of doing the show? I would say picking up the tap dance last minute…it has been an exhilarating challenge!

What has been the best thing about doing the show? The best part by far is being back with my Walterdale family; I feel so lucky that I get to come to rehearsal to play and explore alongside these wonderful and talented people.

Meet the Cast of FOLLIES! Erin Foster-O’Riordan is Heidi Schiller!

What is your role in Follies? I play Heidi Schiller, diva of divas, and muse of many early 20th-century Austrian composers.

What is your background in theatre? At Walterdale? I started dancing at the age of three, and have always loved performing. I’ve been active in local theatre for about 14 years, and have had the chance to work with some amazing people and play some amazing roles such as Polly in Crazy for You (Festival Place), Cathy in The Last Five Years (Round Barn/TOWTTB), and The Baker’s Wife in Into the Woods (TOWTTB). I also have been able to collaborate with some dear friends while working on projects under the Round Barn Productions banner which Monica Roberts and I co-founded a number of years ago, including twice producing the 60’s inspired SHOUT! The Mod Musical. I am also a sound designer, and have worked with many wonderful production teams to help establish mood, time and place in their shows. At Walterdale, I have designed sound for Crimes of the Heart, Village of Idiots, Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, The Rabbit Hole, Love of the Nightingale, Proof, Nine, and Chess. I have also had my one-act play, Uncle Robert’s Funeral, produced as a staged reading. The last time I was onstage at Walterdale was almost 11 years ago in 2006’s Steel Magnolias as Truvy Jones.

What brought you out for this production? Being (ahem) past the age of playing any of the memory girls, I was enticed by the number of mature roles for women in this show. I was also enticed by knowing that many of my fellow mature woman actors would be auditioning, and the chance to work in that kind of ensemble is rare. Also–Sondheim. I’m a sucker for Sondheim.

This show is about theatre and nostalgia – what do you love about doing theatre? I think this show is also about the fleeting camaraderie of theatre–relationships that are brief and beautiful. There is something lovely about the point-in-time magic of any show you are a part of–relationships that quickly become intense and personal because you are working with each other intensely and personally. But then it’s over, and you may never see or work with some of those people again. Yes, you have friendships that transcend that point in time, but for the most part, doing a show is a unique experience with a built-in expiry date–knowing that makes me breathe it in more deliberately somehow, and not take it for granted. It forces you to be present in the moment.

What has been the most challenging part of doing the show? Time management. Life is very busy!

What has been the best thing about doing the show? I have gotten to do things that are completely new to me. I have never had any experience with tap, so even learning the “faking it” version has been a lot of fun, and I have never sang a song that is so operatic before. I want to thank Michael and Barb for trusting that I had those capabilities when I really did think I did!

Meet the Cast of FOLLIES! Alyssa Paterson is Young Carlotta and Co-Choreographer!

What is your role in this production? I’m in the ensemble as a memory girl (Young Carlotta), and I’m also dance captain and co-choreographer for the show.

What is your background in theatre? At Walterdale? I grew up doing a lot of musical theatre, and took a long break from it before joining the cast of Chess at Walterdale last summer. I had such a fantastic time that I knew I had to come back for Follies!

What brought you out for this production? I’ve always held a secret desire to be a showgirl, and this show lets me do that! Plus the show contains some of my favourite Sondheim songs, and I knew that there’d be lots of great dancing.

This show is about theatre and nostalgia – got any good theatre stories? I was once in a show where I had to “die” onstage while holding my “baby” in my arms, which was a plastic doll wrapped in a blanket. One night during the scene, the actor who was supposed to scoop the baby out of my arms didn’t make it in time, and the doll started falling off of me and rolling onto the bed. I had to pretend to be dead, so I could only lie there, completely still, as I felt it happening! Thankfully the other actor just managed to catch the doll before it fell onto the floor…

What has been the most challenging part of doing the show? As dance captain, I get to sub in for the dances of missing cast members when they’re away. There’s plenty of dancing in this show, so it’s a lot for me to keep straight in my head.

What has been the best thing about doing the show? It’s been a long time since I’ve done any choreography, and I’ve really enjoyed collaborating with Barbara (the director and co-choreographer) to create and set the many dance numbers in this show. I’ve also loved getting to know the fabulous cast and crew – this show is filled with talented and lovely people!

Meet the Cast of FOLLIES – Leslie Caffaro is Sally Durant Plummer!

What is your role in Follies? I play Sally, a former dancer attending a reunion of her fellow Weismann girls. She still tries to maintain a veneer of bubbliness, but is forced to face some dark realizations during the reunion.

What is your background in theatre? I didn’t start acting until I was an adult, taking some local classes and then doing a summer session at New Actors Workshop in NYC. A friend suggested I audition for the Walterdale, funnily enough I’d already seen shows there but hadn’t realized it was a community theatre. This is my 11th Walterdale show (not all of them musicals). I’ve also done shows with Abbedam, Two One Way Tickets to Broadway and Round Barn productions. In theory, I am still reworking a musical I wrote and co-directed for Stagestruck.

What brought you out for this show? It’s a musical! I had worked with Barb Mah before on Sweet Charity, my first real musical, which was a magical experience, and hoped to work with her again. I’d seen a show Michael Clark had done and was impressed by the characterization in the songs. The challenge of approaching these complex characters was also exciting.

What do you love about doing theatre? I love the open, accepting atmosphere in theatre and the sense of collaborating on a common goal, and of course playing and pretending and escaping my own little world for a while.

What is the most challenging thing about doing this show? I’ve never done a Sondheim show before so the music itself was challenging for me. Also, on paper, I didn’t find my character Sally to be very likeable but didn’t want this to interfere with presenting a multidimensional character.

What is the best thing about doing this show? The best thing about this show are all the people involved who constantly inspire me. As I’ve played with many of them before it’s almost like a reunion within a reunion and there’s also the joy of finding new partners in crime.

Meet the Team of FOLLIES! John Anderson is the Lighting Op!

What is your role on this production? I’m the Lighting Operator. When the actor comes on stage, and the lights shine on their faces, so you can see them, it’s because I’m somewhere in the back — pushing buttons, turning levers, spinning wheel pedals, pulling rope, shoveling coal, etc. You got to see those actors act, so my job is to make sure the lights go up on them, by any means necessary.

What is your background in theatre? At Walterdale? I have been an Assistant Stage Manager for a couple shows at the Watlerdale: Jenny’s Story and Chess. I also recently volunteered as the Sound Operator on Elope Theatre’s production of Sweeney Todd.

What brought you out for this production? I wanted to get some experience in the booth, and have never taken on the role of Lighting Operator before, so I figured this would be a good opportunity to get that experience. Our director, Barbara Mah, and Lighting Designer, Brad Melrose, have both been very generous towards me, in allowing me to take on this opportunity, and learn from them.

This show is about theatre and nostalgia – what do you love about doing theatre? What I like about live theatre is its transient nature. Unlike a film, for example – which can be watched anytime, anywhere – a play can only be seen in a specific place within a short window of time. Each performance is unique in its own way. You were either there when it happened, or you weren’t. That’s all. There’s something very special about that passing intimacy that you don’t experience in the more permanent and removed artforms of cinema and literature.

What has been the most challenging part of doing the show? My experience so far with this show has been a very easy one, since the responsibilities of my role are only just beginning this week. Based on the talented and kind people involved with the show, I anticipate that our run will be a fun time.

What has been the best thing about doing the show? Getting the opportunity to learn how the lights work at the Walterdale, and getting to watch our talented cast play their parts in rehearsal.

Meet the Cast of FOLLIES! Kristen Finlay is Carlotta Campion!

What is your role in Follies? I play Carlotta Campion. She was a Weismann Girl in the 1940s and has returned for the reunion before the theatre is closed for good. Carlotta was never the star of the Follies but she is the most successful since, having moved on to movies, then Vegas, and now starring in a television series. She’s happy to come back because she believes it’s important to look at where you came from to appreciate what you have. She also is genuinely fond of all her friends from the ‘good old days’.

What is your background in theatre? At Walterdale? I have been involved in theatre since I was in junior high school. I started doing community theatre shows at Keyano Theatre (a 600 seat theatre in Fort McMurray) when I was in grade 10 and can attest that theatre has always been a very big part of my life. I taught high school drama for several years prior to relocating to Edmonton which moved me into directing and designing shows. Since being in Edmonton I have directed, written, produced, and designed many shows. Some were community theatre, some professional, some fringe. I like that Edmonton has a theatre/arts community that embraces a variety of theatres and artists. I’m a former Artistic Director of Walterdale and am always glad to come back and direct (Chess, Nine, Proof, Rabbit Hole), perform (Steel Magnolias, The Misanthrope, The Threepenny Opera) or design (Village of Idiots, Othello) for Walterdale’s stage. My current day job is in the Marketing department of the Citadel Theatre. I most recently assistant directed Sense and Sensibility at the Citadel and was intern director for the 2017 Citadel/Banff Centre Professional Theatre Program.

Why did you come out for this production? I’m a sucker for Sondheim. Truly. I also loved that this show has room for some many ‘mature’ ladies. You get to a certain age and there are 10 of you all competing for the same part. In this show you all get to be in in, and I knew that it would brign out some strong performers who would be great to work with.

What has been the most challenging thing about doing this show? Words… My song is awesome, but it’s also long with lots of words… I think I have them. The fake-tap was hard at first, but I am actually really happy to be dancing onstage again

What has been the best thing about doing this show? Working with old and new friends. I think the show is so well cast and there’s a really nice atmosphere in rehearsals. There are divas – but only in the good way – divas, because man-oh-man can they sing!

Meet the Cast of FOLLIES! Teagan Kamstra is Young Sally!

What is your role in this production? I play Young Sally. She is a Weismann girl in the 1940’s. Throughout the show, she appears in memories and flashbacks. Young Sally is a bubbly, charming young girl. Through the memories we learn how Young Sally actions affect Sally as an older woman and how she deals with the choices she made.

What is your background in theatre? I have been performing since as long as I can remember! I am currently enrolled at Concordia and I’ve done a variety of performances in school and the Edmonton area. This will be my first Walterdale production and I’m so thrilled to be a part of it!

What brought you out for this show? I wasn’t originally a part of this production; I was brought on to play Young Sally in June. Learning this show in less than a month is a daunting task but I’m always up for a challenge!

This show is about theatre nostalgia… Got any good theatre stories? I think I come out of every show I do with some ridiculous stories. My personal favourite was on a show we did in December, when we had a sound cue that didn’t get played, but instead they played Jingle Bells! Very awkward 20 seconds on stage.

What has been the most challenging part of working on Follies? The most challenging part of doing this show for me was learning it so quickly! Because I was brought on late, I have quite a bit of catching up to do.

What has been the best thing about working on Follies? I haven’t been doing this show for long, but so far I’m loving the people. Everyone was so welcoming and supportive. This show is full of talent and I’m just happy to be a part of it!

Meet the Cast of FOLLIES! Veronica Masik is Young Phyllis!

What is your role in this production? I am playing Young Phyllis. The younger version of Phyllis is sweet, naïve, and self-doubting. She is completely in love with Ben and believes she’s not good enough for him.

What is your background in theatre? At Walterdale? I got my start with St. Albert Children’s Theatre almost 20 years ago and have done at least one musical a year since then. I’ve performed in two other Walterdale Productions: You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown (2009) and Anything Goes (2013). Some favorite past roles include Wednesday Addams (The Addams Family Musical), Marta (Kiss of the Spiderwoman), Serena (Legally Blonde), and Hattie (Kiss Me Kate).

What brought you out for this production? Why did you want to be involved in this show? I came out for this production because I love working with Barb and Michael. Having decided not to pursue theatre professionally, it’s become a much loved hobby of mine and shows with Barb and Michael are always fun. I heard they were doing Follies and listened to some of the music, then I was hooked!

This show is about theatre and nostalgia – got any good theatre stories? I have a bad habit of tripping and falling down on stage. The first larger role I was ever cast in was Susan Pevensie in Narnia the Musical. (Yes, that show actually exists!) During the scene where we first entered Narnia, I stepped off the set and wiped out face flat on the floor. The only thing I could think of to say was “Oooh it’s icy!” I got a laugh, but I was so embarrassed!

What has been the most challenging part of doing the show? I had to miss the first half of the rehearsal process due to being involved in ELOPE’s Sweeney Todd. Coming in late, it was a push to catch up and learn everything. I’m also the only one in the young cast with no formal training in tap, so keeping up with the other girls in the tap dance is hard work!

What has been the best thing about doing the show? Spending time with old friends and getting to meet new people.

Follies runs from July 5-15, 2017 at Walterdale Theatre. Call 780.420.1757 or go to www.tixonthesquare.ca for tickets today!

Meet the Cast of Follies! Gavin Belik is Ben Stone!

What is your role in this production? I play Ben Stone in Follies. Ben is a worldly, well-to-do type who has been primarily driven to be success in his career. He first became a lawyer, then a distinguished politician and eventually the president of a Foundation in NewYork. He and his wife Phyllis have been featured in Vogue magazine. Now that’s he’s in his 50’s he begins to question the choices he made.

What is your background in theatre? At Walterdale? I’ve performed in several productions with the Edmonton Opera Chorus, as well as Pacific Opera Victoria and Pop Goes the Opera. In University I performed in a couple of musicals and several theatre productions. I started off acting in improvised theatre and performed in various venues in Edmonton and surrounding area. This is my first production with Walterdale.

What brought you out for this production? Why did you want to be involved in this show? I heard about this production through a friend of mine who mentioned they were auditioning. I was interested because it looked like a chance to really dive into a character and work on my acting “chops”. Ben’s character is a challenging one as he is complicated and operates on several different levels. Also, this show has been performed in some big houses around the world, so it’s a chance to try and step into some large shoes.

This show is about theatre and nostalgia – got any good theatre stories? I have a theatre story for you. The first musical I was in was in university. It was called Honk! – The Story of the Ugly Duckling. I played a gregarious bullfrog who comes across “Ugly”, the ducking, as he is at his lowest of lows. Ugly is despondent because he’s been shunned by his community and he can’t find his family. I lift his spirits with a music number that basically says “Hey, I’m a bullfrog, and I’m ugly too, but it’s all in how you look at it and there are people who love you no matter what!”

This number turned into a show-stealer with the entire ensemble involved and we brought the roof down every time we performed it. One memorable night was when all my choir geek friends from school were in the audience and screamed in support and delight at the close of the number. It’s an experience I wish everyone could have.

What has been the most challenging part of doing the show? To really do Ben’s character justice has been the most challenging part for me. I wish I could say that acting comes naturally to me but that hasn’t been the case. There have been many hours of rehearsal involved. Thankfully everyone involved with this show has been really supportive. Barb and Michael are really great to work with as well and have a wealth of experience to draw upon and share.

What has been the best thing about doing the show? For me, the reason this show is challenging is also the reason it’s rewarding. The songs that Ben sings are each in a different style and I appreciate the opportunity to work on my craft. Plus the rest of the cast is so talented that I’m constantly inspired to try to “up my game”.

Follies runs July 5-15, 2017 at Walterdale Theatre. Call 780.420.1757 or go to www.tixonthesquare.ca for tickets today!

Meet the Cast of FOLLIES – Monica Roberts is Phyllis Stone!

What is your role in this production? Phyllis Stone. She is a former Weismann girl who came to New York to be a star. She fell in love and married Ben but is now struggling with the confines of her 30-year marriage, who she is and what her future holds. Returning to the Weismann theatre provides her the physical and psychological space to expose her struggles.

What is your background in theatre? At Walterdale? Dancing from a young age I’ve always found, nay, forced my way onto the stage. I went to Ontario to get my BFA in Musical Theatre and returned to Edmonton. My first Walterdale production returning from theatre school was Antony and Cleopatra as Cleopatra. This was one of the first times I’ve died on stage (but not the last).

What brought you out for this production? Why did you want to be involved in this show? I don’t think there is an actor out there who doesn’t relate to the characters in Follies. Aging through the business is a hard, sobering and slightly painful experience. Not only can I relate to the depths of life experience in the show but Sondheim gives mature actors roles, like Phyllis, to spotlight their time-earned talents and say that “yes – aged is beautiful”.

This show is about theatre and nostalgia – got any good theatre stories? So many great memories from shows. Costume malfunctions in my Cleo halter top. Opening night – The Queen of the Nile slipping on her hem and landing flat on her ass. Crimes of the Heart – being “in the moment” and pouring a bottle of “booze” down a non-functioning sink on set (much to the Director’s and Designer’s chagrin). Mail Order Bride – Sped up sound cues of a train arriving in the station that sounded like a toy train. And oh so many mole nights.

What has been the best thing about doing the show? The best thing about the Walterdale is the great people that you get to work with. Great relationships are built during a show and that is because of the type of people drawn to community theatre. Everybody shows up and gives their time, blood, sweat and tears to the process. There is a love and grace that we have for each other’s journey through rehearsal that isn’t found many other places. I think it is why we keep coming back.