“Camelot” opens this coming weekend at The Soo Theatre Project on July 9, 10, 11, and 12! And, as usual, it is a community effort to put on a production of this magnitude with such a tremendous gathering of incredible talent…from near and far…on and off the stage….before, during, and after the show.
One exciting contribution to the show came from the Sault Area High School’s welding students, who under the leadership of instructor Greg Rambo, forged twelve broadswords which will be featured in a big sword-fight scene.
Co-Director Karen Hughes Beacom states, “The authenticity of these swords makes a huge impact on the production. The high energy number performed by the knights, “Fie on Goodness,” really displays these magnificent swords.”
Another former area resident will also be bringing his gifts to the theater community. Professional stage combat instructor Orion Couling will be visiting the set of “Camelot” this coming week to give some pointers on broadsword technique.
Couling, a resident of Chicago where he is Programming Director on Tall Ships, is the son of Jim and Mary Couling, local storytellers of the wonderful summer Twilight Walking Tours in Sault Sainte Marie.
With the support of other local organizations including the Madrigal Dinner for Hospice, Les Cheneaux Education Foundation, The Musical Comedy Guild, Shot In the Dark Productions, Lake Superior State University and White Pines (home of Kiwanis Community Theater Center), “Camelot” is coming to The Soo Theatre Project July 9, 10, 11, & 12. All these organizations on both sides of the river have provided something special to this production. From costumes and musical instruments to set pieces and swords, STP is most grateful for the contributions of these community organizations!
The cast deserves mention here, as well, for their behind the scenes work on this production. The ladies of the cast decided to rally together to make an entire second set of dresses for their big number, “The Lusty Month of May.”
“The cast really wanted to wear something more playful for this number. With a limited budget and time constraints, they jumped right in to make nineteen dresses with the help of our talented and hard working costume director Linda Stoetzer-Carrick,” said Beacom.
Cast members have also spent weekends, beyond rehearsal time, loading in sets, building platforms, dressing the stage, and making floral head wreaths.
“I don’t think I have ever experienced such an all around “all hands on deck” spirit as I have with this production. There is an inspiring commitment on display to making this show a magical experience for all. And we can’t wait to share this story with our audience,” states Beacom.
Finally, a special acting canine will be making his stage debut in “Camelot.” Auggie, the local dog of Facebook fame, will be playing the role of Horrid in the show. (Auggie just happens to belong to the show’s producer, Karen Hughes Beacom.)
Broadswords, armor, castles, beautiful music, gorgeous dresses and fabulous talent, including a dog, all make “Camelot” a show not to miss. Save by ordering your tickets in advance. Tickets will be also be available at the door. Seating is open.
There’s always something for everyone at The Soo Theatre Project all year long. Visit: 534 Ashmun Street. Call: (906) 632-1930. Look: www.sootheatre.org. Like: FB @ Soo Theatre Project, Inc.
