For Immediate Release
September 3, 2002

SAINT JOHN THEATRE COMPANY SEEKS NEW VOLUNTEERS
No Experience Needed To Join Theatre "Family"

With rehearsals for its 2002-2003 season of plays set to begin, the Saint John Theatre Company is putting out a call for new talent – and you don’t have to be able to spout Shakespeare or strut across a stage to get involved.

The Company, one of the busiest amateur theatre troupes this side of Montreal, needs actors for its three upcoming productions at the Imperial Theatre. The SJTC is also searching for volunteers to take care of everything from carpentry to costuming.

"We need people with lots of energy to audition and to work backstage," says Sandra Donnelly-Tobias, a member of the SJTC board of directors. "I'm always surprised at the number of people who have no idea that anyone can volunteer for the Saint John Theatre Company. It's not just artsy types or really experienced 30-something theatre people."

The new SJTC season will feature Art, a hilarious modern play by Yasmina Reza, as well as the Arthur Miller masterpiece Death of a Salesman. The season kicks off on November 15 and 16 with The Miracle Worker, William Gibson’s acclaimed drama about the childhood of Helen Keller.

Even though the curtain won’t rise on The Miracle Worker for two months, Donnelly-Tobias says the perfect time to become part of the Saint John Theatre Company is right now.

"We’re looking for an ensemble cast of men and women of all ages," Donnelly-Tobias says. "We are also looking for one young elementary school-aged boy. The role of Helen and other young girls have already been cast. The roles vary in size, so there is plenty of opportunity for experienced and new performers."

People who don’t have a taste for the spotlight can help by working on props, costumes, make-up, set construction or set painting.

"It takes approximately 50 or 60 volunteers both onstage and behind the scenes to put together an SJTC production," Donnelly-Tobias explains. "Our volunteers come from all walks of life, all age groups, and all levels of theatre experience. We have teenagers, retired people and everything in between. Best of all, no experience is required to volunteer for the Company."

People who already volunteer for the SJTC describe it as "fun" and "addictive." Many say they like being part of a theatre "family" and doing something to help the community. New friendships and great cast parties add to the appeal.

Open auditions for The Miracle Worker will be held at 7 pm on September 10, 11 and 12 at the SJTC loft, which is on the fourth floor at 86 Prince William Street. Prepared audition pieces are not required.

To find out more about becoming a volunteer, contact the Saint John Theatre Company at (506) 634-1990 or stage@sjtconline.com. You can also visit the SJTC website at www.sjtconline.com.

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