Spears proud of volunteerism, camaraderie for ‘Little Shop of Horrors’
(Artwork/Haelin Oh)
MADISON – Many people are playing behind-the-scenes ‘roles’ for James Clemens High School’s production of “Little Shop of Horrors” this weekend.
Parent volunteers are coordinating costumes, ticket sales, publicity, social media and concessions.
As ‘meals mom,’ Connie Spears has coordinated meals for cast, crew, orchestra, professional musicians and audio specialists. Smokey’s BBQ, Quizno’s, SmashBurger, Stevi B’s Pizza and Burritos to Go have discounted food.
Connie and Richard Spears’ son Riley is a sophomore ‘techie’ who is ‘body mic’ing’ the cast (placing microphones). “We’re a new theater family,” Connie Spears said.
She has planned menus with restaurateurs’ help, tallied orders, processed purchase orders with Teresa Perigo and director Amy Patel and recruited parents to provide water, desserts and setup/cleanup.
“One of many things within Madison City Schools that makes my heart swell is collaboration between schools in the arts programs,” Spears said. “Every time James Clemens Theatre has reached out to Bob Jones High School for help, they have gone above and beyond in their efforts.”
Bob Jones drama instructor Mary Davis “has spent many late evenings at James Clemens helping coach actors, working with small groups on dance numbers and making lighting and sound suggestions,” Spears said.
However, Davis’ most important contribution has been constant support and uplifting, Spears said. “James Clemens (will) return the same support.”
Huntsville High School has loaned scenery.
“Why would you NOT support the arts?,” Spear said. She quoted Winston Churchill, when asked to cut arts to fund war efforts: “Then what would we be fighting for?”
“The arts are everywhere and in every profession. Math can be found in every aspect of the arts — music, sculpture, to timing (in) technical theatre,” she said.
“Without art, humanity loses its soul,” Spears said. “I’m a staunch supporter of STEAM (Science, Technology Engineering, the Arts and Math).”
The Spears’ older son Ross is an Auburn University senior majoring in software engineering. She serves on Madison Board of Education.
“Little Shop of Horrors” dates are May 1-2 at 7 p.m. and May 3 at 2 and 7 p.m. For tickets, email to jamesclemenstheatre@gmail.com or visit showtix4u.com.
