Cast members and companions running lines for Doo Wop Red Riding Hood
An Interview with
Bright Star Theatre Company
Director Julie Gibson Lay
Tell us about this year’s show.
This year we've got a funny and fresh take on Little Red Riding Hood!
How is it different/unique from shows in recent years?
Each year we transition our productions more and more to make them about the
cast and companions. This year, companions are assistant directing, choreographing,
planning costumes and creating artwork. I built places in the show where the cast has
the freedom to improvise. Some of the companions even have speaking roles to help
propel the story. It's a labor of love for the entire group and I’m crazy excited to see
the end result!
Julie Gibson Lay
How did you get involved in directing, and specifically with NSSRA? It happened
organically. I guess I’m just hard to shut up. My degree is in piano performance, and
then worked in advertising for many years. I always have tons of ideas rolling around
in my head. I actually started as a musical director and then moved into more and
more directing roles when there was a need.
Tell us about the cast.
They are fearless, funny and creative -- such an amazing group!!
What kind of creative input do participants/companions have in the show?
Participants and companions have as much as they want. I want them to feel like this
is their production and to take creative ownership. Each year it becomes more and
more "theirs"!
What are some of your favorite moments from rehearsals so far this year?
The cast has an opportunity to improvise during one of the songs this year. We started
with a gem of an idea and I let them run with it. I was blown away by what I saw.
Come see the show and you’ll see what I'm talking about!
www.nssra.org
Cast member Will with his
Creative Companion, Hannah
BRIGHT STAR THEATRE CO.
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