Cross-city theatre instructors are allies, not rivals, for ‘Little Shop of Horrors’
Amy Patel. (CONTRIBUTED)
Mary Davis. (CONTRIBUTED)
MADISON – Instead of competing, Amy Patel and Mary Davis share their skills for school productions, like this weekend’s “Little Shop of Horrors” at James Clemens High School.
The musical’s director, Patel teaches drama at James Clemens. Mary Davis teaches drama classes at Bob Jones High School.
Davis adjudicated ‘Little Shop’ auditions and gave input to Patel on making her casting selections.
At several rehearsals, Davis has helped in ‘cleaning’ blocking and choreography and giving notes during scene run-throughs. She has stepped in as needed with moral support, encouragement and ideas.
Conversely, Davis has learned tips from Patel’s directing. “It’s been a great give-and-take. I’m thankful to collaborate with such an accomplished and talented director,” Davis said.
Professionals can get trapped “in ‘our way.’ Collaborating allows professional growth and can breathe new life into older ideas and generate new ones,” Davis said.
Bob Jones also has loaned costumes and props. “While James Clemens is building their own stock, whatever we have, they’re welcome to borrow,” Davis said.
Another volunteer, Al Gilbert shares professional sound experience for Madison shows, although he doesn’t have a child in school. He also runs sound for Summit Crossing Community Church.
“Al believes in pouring into the community and loves theatre. It’s a great place for him,” Davis said. Gilbert teaches students to run the complicated soundboard, mix and troubleshoot.
In February, both Davis and Patel assisted with Columbia Elementary School’s “Willy Wonka Jr.” They loaned ‘techies’ to assist in running the show, led by director Terrena Mann and her own team.
In addition, Davis and Patel have helped when needed at Liberty and Discovery middle school shows. “We are indeed ‘One City,'” Davis said.
Davis knows Madison has many talented students. “Whether they attend Bob Jones or James Clemens, they deserve the best we have to give them … (for) the best possible opportunities to shine brightly on and back stage.”
“Little Shop of Horrors” performances are May 1-3 at 7 p.m. and May 3 at 2 p.m.
