Originally published in Foster Home Journal
This month we invited another one of our members to share their experiences with SMCT. Meet Ruth Lear, in her own words…
I first auditioned for Swamp Meadow Community Theatre in the summer of 2007. At that time, I was a shy 8-year old who struggled in social situations even when amongst close friends. At this point in my life it is hard to believe, and I would say that it is thanks to my overwhelmingly positive experience with Swamp Meadow. As a child, I took mostly small supporting roles, but it didn’t matter, I was having the time of my life. Over the past 13 years, I have been a part of over 30 shows and events. I have tried lots of the roles that go into putting on a show, and it has grown into an obsession with theatre that has completely consumed my life!
While onstage, I have played a wide range of characters that have pushed me out of my comfort zone, made me a better actress, and even allowed me to show off my killer cockney accent. Of all the shows I have been a part of, my favorite one is by far was our Spring 2016 production of M*A*S*H. I played Corporal Radar O’Reilly, a role I would never have even thought to audition for, so I’m very grateful that it was suggested to me. From our cast made up of some of my favorite people on earth, to our amazing set, I will forever be grateful to have been part of that show. Another show that I loved being a part of was “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”. It was my first time as a Stage Manager, and despite my nerves, the show came out great. It was due to our amazing cast and crew… plus there’s nothing like seeing adults acting like children to bring a smile to your face.
In retrospect, the things I’m most grateful for are the people I’ve met along the way. The terrific group of very talented people who make up the backbone of our little theatre are really what keep me coming back. You can do theatre anywhere, but when you find a group of people who make every audition, every rehearsal, and everything else going on in your life a whole lot brighter, you know that you have found something to hold on to.