Guest Essayist…Ginger Smith

I have been asked to write about my experiences with Readers Theatre and the Open Book Players.  Where do I start?  I have always loved everything about theater but never had the opportunity to experience being part of it other than as a patron due to work commitments.  When I retired I always thought I would love to be part of the theater community but never had the confidence that I could do it.  Then I saw an announcement for a readers theatre workshop.  Having no idea what readers’ theater was (do they just read out of a book???), I thought I’d go and observe.  Several groups performed short plays and I was wow’d that they could portray a character with just their voices, facial expressions and hand motions.  I’ve been hooked ever since and am now on the board of directors of Open Book Players.  Whenever there is a show, I always want to audition for what I know will be an amazing experience.   Readers Theatre and the Open Book Players have given me the opportunity to express my creativity and to be part of a community that is welcoming, fun to be with and to make lifelong friends.   It has also given me the confidence to expand into other acting opportunities with local theaters. Whether you attend a performance (please do!!!) or act in one, you will be glad you did!