I was fifteen years old. June 24th, 2011 is the day I made my Croswell debut. From that day forward the Croswell had my heart. Since then, I have been in an additional two shows and have had the opportunity of working with the best directors and crews imaginable.
1. The Staff
I will never forget the day Jere Righter (Artistic Director) first approached me to audition after a show I did. I never thought to audition at the Croswell before but she was so sweet, encouraging and thoughtful. I thought to myself, I need to be a part of whatever she's a part of. So I auditioned the following summer and my Croswell journey began. John MacNaughton (Creative Director) is all around a really cool guy. Ashley Brainerd (Box Office Manager) is so much fun to work with. Fun fact: we're sisters. Go Chi O! The entire Croswell staff is fantastic.
2. The Atmosphere
Media outlets often portray the audition experience as stressful and hostile among participants. At the Croswell, the opposite is true. The atmosphere is filled with joy and well wishes. The staff, directors, and choreographers truly want to see you have fun and succeed. Of course, on audition day, you'll be nervous and maybe even have cold feet. I still do. But remember you have one job and that's to have fun!
3. Lifelong Friendships
The saying is true, no two shows are alike. Mainly because no two casts will ever be the same. I wish I would have realized this truth earlier. We often take things, experiences, and people for granted; and being in a cast, unfortunately, is no exception. I've met some really amazing people through the Croswell. It's always great to see them at auditions the following summer, to support them in additional shows and receive/send those little messages on social media every once in awhile. Shows are only temporary, but the friendships you make are for a lifetime. Making new friends is great but it's also amazing when you get the chance to be in shows with your best friend in the whole wide world. It's another memory to add that you'll share together forever. There's nothing like it and I am so glad I've had the chance to experience the Croswell magic with my best friend twice.
4. Support
Like I said earlier, the production team wants to see you succeed in performing to the best of your ability. At the Croswell there are no superstars, from stage performers, crew to volunteers there's equality because they realize it takes exceptional hands from all areas to maintain such a successful establishment.
5. Volunteer Opportunities
If you're interested in getting into the world of theater but aren't quite ready to take the stage yet yourself; there are various volunteer opportunities. From being the first person patrons see in the box office to serving as an usher, the opportunities available are phenomenal. You get a name tag and everything; it's awesome. By far one of my favorite volunteer opportunities is when I got the chance to take tickets for Frozen. Seeing first hand, the glow and excitement in their eyes was breathtaking. Not to mention their cute little outfits to match with Anna and Elsa, wigs and all.
I encourage you to support the Croswell. Not ready to audition yet? Volunteer, you'll be happy you did!
