A Walk in the ‘GARDEN’ for TheatreLab.

You all know how much I love these interviews with local leaders in the arts. This time around, I was thrilled to catch up with Mackensie King of TheatreLab Dayton. They are bringing the classic ‘The Secret Garden’ to life at the Victoria this weekend. As a former elementary school teacher, I cant ell you, the story alone is magic. My interview with Mackensie went something like this.

JS: Hi Mackensie! How exciting to see ‘The Secret Garden’ coming to life here is Dayton. What made you choose this story?

MK: Well, first of all…hi Josh! Thanks for highlighting the arts in Dayton!! The Secret Garden is a story that transcends generations. It’s still taught in schools around the world and there is something so incredibly special about putting up something that is familiar to so many. And I mean the score… who doesn’t love a classical musical with sweeping Melodies?

JS: Right….if you haven’t heard the music folks…WOW! Just gorgeous! And although it is a world-renowned tale, let people know what the story is about.

MK: Ok. The musical is like the book but it strays from that path. It follows Mary Lennox, after suddenly losing her parents. She is taken to live with her uncle who’s wife also passed, and we watch this family deal with grief and learning to love and live again.

JS: And even though it has that sad overtone, there is so much to love about the characters and their hope fiiled plight! What do you feel people can expect from your production?

MK: To start the music is stunning. All of the actors on stage have stunning voices and these tunes will stick with you. This show while classical, has the feel of a spectacle because of the large sets, incredible light and remarkable costumes.

JS: I know folks who truly think this musical is one of the greatest, ever….yet, so many folks have not seen it. It’s magical!

MK: It really is!

JS: So, tell us about you. Your involvement in the arts!

MK: Well let’s see I’m a Libra who loves reading… but seriously- I’ve been with TheatreLab since it’s inception in a multitude of different roles, but I am the current Artistic Director. I’ve directed many shows for TheatreLab, while also taking the stage whenever I get the chance!

JS: I think all theater people should try their hand at each and every part. I know you can sing young lady!! So, what is it that pulls you toward directing?

MK: I love the collaboration it allows. You really get to sit with the actors and come to know them through the process. Then we can take those things and apply them to the show so that the show has everyone’s prints all over it. I love when it comes together and I can sit back and see each persons ideas grow together into a beautiful final product!

JS: Yes, it’s all about the final product, and what folks walk away feeling. What do you hope people take from ‘The Secret Garden?‘

MK: After experiencing the loss of one of my best friends this year, this show has helped me look at grief in a completely new light. I hope the audience can take away that no matter how dark things can seem, there is hope. That we as humans can all at our core understand loss at some point and that if we talk about our sadness with others, we will feel a little less alone.

JS: That is the magic of live theater…feeling like you are part of something that can change you for the better!! What’s next at TL?

MK: We have a busy summer filled with classes, camps and more! Then in September, we will be right back at the Victoria Theatre with ‘The Producers!’

JS: GET OUT!!! I love ‘The Producers!’ I know you are all busy, busy with this weekend’s performances….anything else you want to add?

MK: Support local theatre!

JS: Bravo to that and ‘BREAK THEM LEGS!’ Thanks for meeting me Mackensie! And to see the show? What do folks need to know?

MK: The show runs May 12-13th at The Victoria Theatre. Ticket prices start as low as 18 dollars and can be found at theatrelabdayton.org.

JS: Thanks again!!