Larry Hypes
Contributing writer
CHRISTIANSBURG – Lights! Camera! And this time, Direction!
Christiansburg Public Librarian Salena Sullivan is once again heading from her day job to the stage, directing the award-winning musical comedy “The Drowsy Chaperone” for the Showtimers Community Theatre group in Roanoke, beginning on July 23 and continuing through Aug. 9.
Described as a “fun homage” to Golden Age musicals, this delightful production includes infatuated lovers, a bumbling best man, a desperate theatre producer, a less-than-brilliant hostess, a pair of gangsters, a misguided Don Juan, the intoxicated character for whom the play is named and four weddings in a show that seems to have something for everyone in the audience.
Sullivan, along with Blacksburg choreographer Jessie Allen, is a prime mover in the event and loves every minute of it. She has invested more than 20 years in theatre, working on sets, production and performing on stage. With an interest in encouraging others to achieve their best either at work or in the arts, this energetic lady has decided to forge forward now as director.
“The biggest challenge,” she says, “is juggling different people, diverse priorities, deadlines, and all of those ‘moving parts’ that combine to make up a production. Our musical features 17 people, two additional directors – music and choreography – six designers and my wonderful stage manager.”
Showtimers is a non-profit, community-based organization featuring performances and productions that are accessible and welcome to all.
Sullivan understands exactly what that means, especially during the busy summer season, adding, “Coordinating 26 schedules during this time of year, plus knowing that our team is donating time for this, inspires me to be respectful of everyone and trying to ensure that it (the musical) is fun to do.”
With the varied cast roles and situations, she adds, “I hope the audiences have a lot of fun, and every time we practice I laugh out loud, because this is only a show with a lot of heart but it also gives every individual a chance to see a little of themselves. It is also a show about the power of art and theatre to make us feel good even when otherwise we might be feeling blue.”
Showtimers, now in its 76th season, is among the oldest community theatres in the Roanoke Valley. Sullivan, who joined the group while still in high school, concludes, “It is so important that we make and consume art, especially in our free time.”
“The Drowsy Chaperone” performances are at Showtimers Theatre at 2607 McVitty Road SW, Roanoke, taking place Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., with a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. Tickets range from $13.50 to $19.50. Showtimers can be contacted at 540-774-2660 or [email protected]. The box office is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. and one hour before curtain.
