Tag: Member Profile

Meet the Cast of The Realistic Joneses – Colleen Allen

Colleen Allen is playing Jennifer Jones!

Hi Colleen, tell us about your character in The Realistic Joneses:

Jennifer is a caregiver, a bookkeeper and a dreamer. Wearing a facade of smiles and sarcasm, she wonders what else might have become of her life and how she ended up in this small mountain town.

What is your background in theatre?

It’s been three decades since I’ve been on stage in Edmonton – or anywhere for that matter! In my youth, I was in theatre school and productions at the Citadel, ITV (now Global) commercials, and played Mary Lennox in the Stage Polaris production of The Secret Garden. Since that time, I studied to become a Registered Nurse with a Masters in Public Health. I’ve worked in research and clinical practice with refugees, harm reduction programs and low-risk obstetrics in Canada and Australia, and started a family. 

What brought you out for The Realistic Joneses?

It was 1:34 AM on a random night when I found myself searching for auditions. I thought to myself, “Well, I’ll start auditioning, take some acting classes and see what happens.” Next thing I know, I’ve signed up for The Realistic Joneses audition thinking it will be fun to stretch those tired ol’ acting chops again. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d be working with this amazing team on an actual stage bringing this strange, quirky, beautiful script to life. 

What are you enjoying the most about working on this show so far?

Learning from the much more experienced cast and discovering the many layers of the script with the whole team.

Why do you think people should come see The Realistic Joneses at the Walterdale?

The Realistic Joneses is funny, weird, comforting, tragic and cryptic in all the best ways possible. It will take you out of the real world and plunk you down into a realistic world that has you laughing, questioning, and empathizing with four characters doing the best they can to get through the day, fix lamps, and say goodbye to dead squirrels.

Who’s your favourite Celebrity Jones and why? 

Jessica Jones in the Marvel Universe. She kicks ass with no apologies and a whiskey in her hand. And she can fly.

Meet the Cast of The Realistic Joneses – Brooke Hodgson

Brooke Hodgson is playing Pony Jones!

Hi Brooke, tell us about your character in The Realistic Joneses:

Pony is a young married woman who just moved to a small town with her husband to start a new life together. With a bubbly energy about her, she also struggles to find balance and handle the very real and difficult relationships and events within her life. Pony has a strong dependence on her husband John, and yet has difficulty communicating her needs, and let alone understand his. However, she contains an air of desperate cheeriness about her as a way to face her day to day life.

What is your background in theatre?

I have been involved in theatre since I was a young girl. From my first role as Dorothy Gale in The Wizard of Oz, I knew that performing is where my passion lies. I have been in many plays and musicals since then, stemming from Mel Brooks to Victor Hugo to Shakespeare. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Drama from the University of Alberta, and since then have been teaching theatre at Lillian Osborne High School in Edmonton. Coming back from a five year hiatus from acting, as I have been primarily directing for the past five years, I am overjoyed to be back continuing my passion. This is my first Walterdale production, and I am absolutely delighted to create art alongside such a great team!

What brought you out for The Realistic Joneses?

I read a Will Eno play rather recently called Middletown, and I absolutely fell in love with his writing. The way that his characters interact with each other is so natural and real, and there is complex subtext that lies behind every single line. As an actor, I get really excited to dive deeper into what’s hidden, what’s indirectly referred to, or what’s not said at all. This play is not just a comedy; it’s about finding the comedy within the tragedy – and I think that’s beautiful. There are so many golden moments and lessons to take from the dialogue that really changed my own perspective on things. While there are moments of laughter and pure hilarity, there are also times that reflect the existential nature of life. This is definitely the type of play that will have you cracking up, while also leaving you with something to think about or be inspired by. 

What are you enjoying the most about working on this show so far?

We have such a talented cast and dedicated crew. There are so many things that happen behind the scenes that are just absolutely incredible. Every time I come into rehearsal, there is always something new in the space to admire. We have a bunch of dedicated people both on and off the stage. Also, working with our director John has been a great experience. His passion and deep knowledge of the play and its characters has been such a great help making each scene come to life. My fellow cast members have also been incredible to work with, and I leave every rehearsal with a smile.

Why do you think people should come see The Realistic Joneses at the Walterdale?

There is something for everyone in this show. There is light-hearted humour, and a guaranteed good laugh. However, there is also this great sense of community in sharing the intimacy of the human experience that is so thrilling to experience in a live show. You’re guaranteed to see a bit of yourself in the play at some point, and it might even teach you a little bit about the way we are as people. I think living in 2022, and the state of the world being quite dismal at times, the play provides that bit of escapism but also that bit of community and relatability in how each character deals with their world, and the conflicts that weigh on them. Though the characters have drastic problems with communication, Will Eno masterfully crafts each and every line, and the poetic nature of the words alone is enough of a reason to come check it out!

Who’s your favourite Celebrity Jones and why? Given that I just directed Chicago with my students, I am going to have to go with Catherine Zeta-Jones. Beyond her work as Velma in Chicago, her versatility as an actress is something I look up to.

Meet the Production Team of The Realistic Joneses – Justine Makowecki

Justine Makowecki is the Stage Manager!

Hi Justine, tell us about your role on The Realistic Joneses:

As a stage manager, I call the show and make sure information is communicated to the necessary people. I am responsible for taking notes at rehearsals to keep track of what we have done. I also keep track of time to make sure everything goes smoothly. 

What is your background in theatre?

I graduated last year from the Technical Theatre diploma at Vancouver Island University (VIU) in Nanaimo, BC. Until now, I have only stage managed shows as a part of school. This is my first time stage managing in Edmonton and first time at the Walterdale Theatre. While at VIU, I also co-directed Rocky Horror Picture Show in 2019 with a classmate. 

What brought you out for The Realistic Joneses?

The director’s brother reached out to my partner, Yuri, and asked if either Yuri or I have stage management experience. Yuri mentioned I had, then the next thing I knew, I was on the team as the stage manager! I wanted to work on the show because I wanted to get involved in the theatre community within Edmonton.

What are you enjoying the most about working on this show so far?

Meeting new people. making connections, and building my skills as a stage manager.

Why do you think people should come see The Realistic Joneses at Walterdale?

Since the pandemic has halted live theatre and it’s now back, I think this is the perfect time for people to support community theatre.

Who’s your favourite Celebrity Jones and why? 

Hard to say, but I’ll go with Richard T. Jones. I’ve watched him in Criminal Minds and Grey’s Anatomy.

Meet the Production Team of The Realistic Joneses – Megan Reti

Megan Reti is the Costume Designer!

Hi Megan, tell us about your role on The Realistic Joneses:

I basically determine how the characters look (with direction from the director, of course). I think about who each character is and how that might translate into how they dress and style themselves. I do everything from putting together a costume mood board for each character to purchasing pieces to fittings to alterations to planning who wears what when, not to mention also considering hair and make-up!

What is your background in theatre?

This is my third show with Walterdale as costume designer.

What brought you out for The Realistic Joneses?

I’m a full-time university student in the fall and winter, so a summer show fits perfectly in my summer break.

What are you enjoying the most about working on this show so far?

The characters are complex  and constructing a look for each character based on the script and what each actor brings to the role has been interesting.

Why do you think people should come see The Realistic Joneses at Walterdale?

Because it’s funny and thought-provoking at the same time. Plus the costumes are pretty cool 😉

Who’s your favourite Celebrity Jones and why? 

Tommy Lee Jones – He reminds me of hanging out with my dad and older brothers as a kid watching Lonesome Dove. Plus MIB is a classic!

Meet the Cast of The Realistic Joneses – Christoff Lundgren

Christoff Lundgren is playing John Jones!

Hi Christoff, tell us about your character in The Realistic Joneses:

John is someone who uses humour as a crutch and jokes his way through life in order to avoid confrontation, both with others and his own feelings. Hits a little close to home to a fella who’s first email address as a teenager was washedupjokester.

What is your background in theatre?

I attended Red Deer college directly out of high school, taking first the Theatre Studies program and then the Motion Picture Arts degree where I wrote, produced and acted in the program’s first feature length film, Demento. After that I lived for years in Vancouver, appearing in principal roles on shows such as Supernatural, The Flash, The Midnight Club,  Red Widow, Package Deal and Continuum. Some favourite theatre credits are: Red Light Winter, Tape, Some Girls and The Importance of Being Earnest. I am also a comedian and one half of the sketch duo The Strapping Young Lads.

What brought you out for The Realistic Joneses?

After a couple live performance-less years, I was and am very eager and excited to get back on stage. Then I found myself laughing out loud at the audition sides, which sealed the ol’ deal. 

What are you enjoying the most about working on this show so far?

Working with a great ensemble cast, director and team. Also the opportunity to play a character that has such a comedic side but also a very lonely and dramatic one.

Why do you think people should come see The Realistic Joneses at the Walterdale?

A wonderful script that is sure to make you laugh, but also think and feel. Also to see the fantastic performances by my costars and the always solid technical work done by the Walterdale team! But seriously, the script has the accessible laughs of a sitcom with many layers to delve into if you dare! 

Who’s your favourite Celebrity Jones and why? 

My favourite Joneses are obviously daytime tv legend Jenny Jones and David Robert Jones (Ziggy Stardust the Goblin King).

Meet the Production Team of The Realistic Joneses – John Anderson

John Anderson is the Director!

Hi John, tell us about your role on The Realistic Joneses:

The Director does a lot of work on a show that they don’t get any credit for. However, the Director also gets a lot of credit for the hard work done by others. In this show, the credit is all due to the strong team around me, so I would suggest you read all the other bios, if you want to read about the real talent and hard work behind this show. This is my first time Directing and my Mentor, Production team, cast, and Artistic Director have all made it a wonderful and satisfying experience through their knowledge, talents, and collaborative spirits.

What is your background in theatre?

Most of my theatre experience comes from Walterdale. All the mentors and peers that have taught me the tricks of the trade are either past or current members of this important theatre. My first show at Walterdale was about eight years ago, and I have been behind the scenes in many Walterdale productions between then and now.

What brought you out for The Realistic Joneses?

As the one that pitched the show for the season, I’m just so pleased that this script was able to convince all the talented people on this team to join the production. One of the hardest parts of this process was sending out the rejection letters after Auditions, because so many talented actors came out to be in this show. Some day, I hope to work with all of the ones that didn’t make it, this time.

What are you enjoying the most about working on this show so far?

Everyone on this team is open to taking chances, so the collaboration process has been a blast. We’ve been able to make unique discoveries, because of how willing the cast and crew have been to suggestion and adaptation. An inspiring group.

Why do you think people should come see The Realistic Joneses at the Walterdale?

The talent on and offstage is tremendous. The script is I think one of the best modern plays from the last couple decades, because of how clear the psychology of the characters is, how realistic the dialogue is, and how funny the characters can be. Furthermore, the story explores modern and relatable issues in relationship dynamics, such as how we can hide behind humour to avoid honest and difficult conversations.

Who’s your favourite Celebrity Jones and why? 

Spike Jonze, if that counts (that pesky Z). One of the best current film directors. If he’s disqualified, then probably Tommy Lee Jones. However, Quincy Jones is a major film composer, and Daisy Edgar-Jones was fantastic in Normal People. Tough question!

Meet the Production Team of The 39 Steps – Matthew Baker

Matthew Baker is our Sound Op!

Hi Matthew! Tell us about your role on The 39 Steps?

I have the pleasure to be working as the Sound Operator for this amazing production! I assist in telling the story through sound.

What is your background in theatre?

I have been acting for a number of years throughout school as well as some community theatre companies. I have also been part of production teams on some shows as well working Sound, Runner, and Assistance to Lights. This is my first Walterdale show and I am very excited to work with these amazingly talented people.

What brought you out for The 39 Steps?

I have seen some great shows come out of Walterdale and I wanted to be a part of one, so when the notice came out – I eagerly jumped at it.

What are you enjoying the most about working on this show so far?

I absolutely love working with the amazing cast and crew and watching this show come to life. Can’t wait for the world to see it!

Why do you think people should come see The 39 Steps at Walterdale?

I have never seen a Walterdale show I didn’t want to see twice. On top of that, seeing this amazing show first-hand and watching it come together, how this fantastic cast and crew have brought this story to life, I can say with complete certainty, it’s something no one will want to miss!

The 39 Steps is based on the Hitchcock film (which is based on the John Buchan novel)… do you have a favourite Hitchcock film? OR a favourite 1930s-40s film?

Strangers on a Train

Meet the Production Team of The 39 Steps – Laura Eschak

Hi Laura! Tell us about your role on The 39 Steps?

I assist the Stage Manager and performers in the story telling by helping assure the set, props, costumes and the characters are where they are needed at the right time. I support both performers and the Stage Manager in whatever way is needed (including finding an inner animal when needed). Dealing with missing beards, broken lights, waving like the wind, finding dark coloured spike marks in black scene changes is all part of the fun.

What is your background in theatre?

I have been involved in 40 productions in Edmonton, Red Deer and Sherwood Park. From performing onstage, crewing behind the blacks, painting, sewing, playing in the pit and FOH. Production favourite – The 39 Steps (Honestly!); Performing favourites include West Side Story, A Child’s Christmas in Wales, Jesus Christ Superstar, Fiddler on the Roof and Spamalot. I have also been blessed that my three daughters have also performed with me in several productions.

What brought you out for The 39 Steps?

In expanding my involvement with Walterdale I was looking for an opportunity to join the technical/stage crews. The 39 Steps is an enormous opportunity to learn A LOT from talented people and share in a fantastic story of mayhem, mystery and comedy.

What are you enjoying the most about working on this show so far?

The talented people who are sharing their experiences, knowledge and joy of performing. Each rehearsal has brought new things to learn and share with the audience.

Why do you think people should come see The 39 Steps at Walterdale?

The 39 Steps is an opportunity to step away from today’s challenges and enjoy a side splitting barrel of laughs that will keep you guessing ‘What are the 39 Steps?” and how will Hannay save the British Island.

Meet the Creative Team of The 39 Steps – Taylor Howell!

Taylor Howell is the Set and Props Designer!

Hi Taylor! Tell us about your role on The 39 Steps?
I am on the production team and designed the set and the props for this fantastic show!

What is your background in theatre?
I have been involved in theatre since high school but started mainly as an actor and only in recent years transitioned to design work. I am currently in school for theatre design and had the opportunity this past year to be part of the props team on the CBC Gem show Frick, I Love Nature as well as the costume team for Jane Eyre at the Citadel.

What brought you out for The 39 Steps?
I volunteered with Walterdale to work on my design skills and this show was the perfect opportunity to play with colour and a very stylized aesthetic.

What are you enjoying the most about working on this show so far?
It has been such an incredible journey to witness the creation of my designs. I can’t believe the level of talent and skill the team at Walterdale has. I am so grateful I was able to work alongside this incredible team.

Why do you think people should come see The 39 Steps at Walterdale?
It’s going to be an absolute riot. Kristen has packed this show with so much action and so many hilarious moments, you won’t want to miss it.

The 39 Steps is based on the Hitchcock film (which is based on the John Buchan novel)… do you have a favourite Hitchcock film? OR a favourite 1930s-40s film?
The Wizard of Oz will always hold a special place in my heart. It was the very first play I was a part of.

Meet the Creative Team of The 39 Steps – Nicole English!

Nicole English is our Illustrious Costume Designer!

Hi Nicole! Tell us about your work on The 39 Steps?

I have assembled over 40 costumes for The 39 Steps!

What is your background in theatre?

I am primarily an actor, singer, occasional sketch writer and improviser.

What brought you out for The 39 Steps?

I love sewing and theatre and thought it would be fun to challenge myself with tackling costume designs for a show!

What are you enjoying the most about working on this show so far?

I love Hitchcock so I’ve really enjoyed the script and also the challenge of putting together different costumes for the many characters in the show. It’s been fun figuring out what specific costume items can work for the multiple characters and be manageable for the actors. Lots of costume pieces in this show!

Why do you think people should come see The 39 Steps at Walterdale?

It’s great fun, lots of laughs and well acted!

The 39 Steps is based on the Hitchcock film (which is based on the John Buchan novel)… do you have a favourite Hitchcock film? OR a favourite 1930s-40s film?

Rear Window. I’ve loved the film from the moment I saw it. A favourite 1940s film is Ball of Fire. If you haven’t seen it, you must watch it!