New Jersey Stage 2016: Issue 5 | Page 42

cherished, and pushed in exciting new directions. The theatre is fortunate to be located close enough to New York City that it lures the area’s best talent. Not just actors, but talented designers, directors, and musicians — aspects that help every production have a level of quality few experience outside of the City. But Paper Mill never forgets where the theatre is based and often includes New Jersey actors in important cast positions. Hoebee, who grew up in Free- hold, is proud of the way the theatre incorporates local actors. “My roots are here,” said Hoebee. “We love serving the community. We love when there are local people in our productions. Sometimes it’s a director who is a Jersey person, sometimes it’s an actor. We also love when some of the kids who come through our program get to graduate on to the stage as well. For us, as a community-based organization and as a not-for-profit, that connection is great. Gov- Watch a video for A Christmas Story at Paper Mill Playhouse NJ STAGE 2016 - ISSUE 5 INDEX NEXT ARTICLE 42