The cast of (title of show.)
Theater in Dayton continues to provide high quality programming for the area…and TheatreLab‘s (title of show) is one outstanding example. Two of TL’s directors, Phillip Drennen and Mackensie King gave us a look at the show, and what’s driving the new energy that is TheatreLab Dayton!
D9: The town is a-buzz with (tos). Mackensie, what makes this show a must-see in your opinion?
MK: This show is spectacular because it truly feels like watching a group of people write a musical in real time. We rarely get the opportunity to see that side of the creation process. All of the performers are letting themselves into each of the characters and allowing truly sincere moments that will bring you to tears while also having you split your sides open with laughter. The harmonies and vocals are SO tight you will question if you are listening to recordings!
D9: Philip, this show takes place in the TheatreLab space, which I hear is going through some changes. Why do this performance there?
PD: Presenting the show in the TheatreLab space is a perfect way to make this show feel even more immersive and really let the audience into the action. The show is mostly a comedy and the score is very intricate so our performers really had to have the chops to pull it off. The acoustics in the TLD space really highlight the complicated and beautiful harmonies in the show. We are finding new ways to bring people into the TheatreLab space as well. Our recent Holiday Trivia party was a huge hit, too. It’s intimate and it brings a whole new energy! More to come with our space, for sure.
Mackensie King
D9: And Mackensie, what do you feel the TL space affords for a patron?
MK: They can expect a very close-knit performance. We have less than 60 seats and the action happens right in their face! We have a donation bar and snacks available as well.
PD: Right. I feel like this is a launching pad for what people can expect more of from TLD going forward. Evocative and authentic pieces of theater told in an intimate setting. By the end of the show, you will feel like you’re just one of our friends, rooting just as hard to get our show to Broadway!
D9: I know there has been much chatter around TheatreLab’s new vision for their part in the Dayton Area Theater scene. With a ‘grassroots group’ of performers and pals, a new path is being forged! Tell us about that!
PD: Yes, we have some very dedicated folks…a group of volunteers made up of performers and friends that are putting their time and resources into all things TheatreLab! It feels very genuine and heartfelt! So thankful for their energy!
MK: With that, we want to continue to offer intimate and unique staging of unknown shows and familiar shows. We truly want to bring Theatre into Dayton by producing shows in unconventional spaces and partnerships with local companies.
D9: When can folks still catch (title of show?)
PD: [title of show] runs for one more week, Thursday, Jan 24 – Sunday Jan 28, 7:30pm on Wednesday and Thursday, 8p on Friday and Saturday, and 2p on Sunday. Tickets range from $10-25 and our Wednesday performance is pay what you can!
D9: Congratulations to you both….and to the entire cast and crew of (title of show.) Looking forward to more from TheatreLab Dayton!
For More Information Visit:
www.theatrelabdayton.org
