Camelot, The Panto!
Starting tonight at the Pond Playhouse in Halifax, the Theatre
Arts Guild presents the hilarious comic adventure Camelot, The Panto. Recently AE caught up with the show’s director Angela Butler.
How long have you been
involved with theatre and in what capacity?
I
have been involved in theatre since 1996. It all started when a friend said
asked me to be a part of a workshop that involved a play. I was hooked. I then
became involved with community theatre groups, Dartmouth Players first then in
1998 I stepped across the pond and joined Theatre Arts Guild and been involved
here ever since. I have tried my hand in
almost every aspect of the theatre from acting, directing, props, to serving at
a board level. I am the current President of the Board of Directors at TAG. One
aspect I haven't tried yet is lighting but I am hoping it will be my next
adventure.
Why the decision to
direct Camelot, the Panto?
My
friend Bunny Shore (AKA- Musial Director
extraordinaire) and I have collaborated together with Lorne Abramson these past
few years with the pantomimes at TAG. This panto was actually chosen by the
Artistic committee but was also one that Bunny and I both read prior to the
committee's selection. Bunny and Lowell's (AKA More-Dread the Sorcerer)
grandson Sabby also told his grandparents last year after we did Captain Hook
that we should try a play with knights. We thought it was a great idea. I would
like to think that it was fate.
What are the challenges
involved with putting on this particular production?
Like
in all plays that require a large cast at TAG- blocking a musical with 21 in
the cast has many challenges. Not a lot of places to go. Another challenge we
faced this year was the location of the play. How do you put a kingdom like
Camelot on a stage the size of Theatre Arts Guild's? Well, through all the
brilliant minds of our talented crew, we accomplished what I believe to be an
awesome set. Fit for KING if you ask me- or a PRINCE in our case!
What are the rewards?
The
rewards are easy. The first time I heard this cast sing as an ensemble, I had
goose bumps! What an amazingly talented group they are. Working with such an
incredible team is a huge reward for me. Watching all the pieces fall into
place as we get close to opening the show is such an incredible feeling. It
starts with a script on paper and becomes this unbelievably magical spectacle.
But I'd have to say the biggest reward happens after we open and the audience
gets to experience the magic too. The audience reactions are worth all the hard
work.
What can audiences
expect to experience during the run?
For
anyone that has been to pantomime will know what to expect but for those who
have never been to one will be in for a huge treat. Pantomime is one of the few
genres of theatre that asks for the audience to participate. Actually it is a
prerequisite. This show is very interactive.
Gentlemen, be prepared! A special lady may be on the hunt for a "Mr
Right"!
What are your thoughts
on the state of theatre in Halifax and Atlantic Canada?
I'd
say that theatre is thriving here. There are a number of small theatre groups
around HRM that are building a audience.
It is great to see the variety. As a community theatre group, Theatre
Arts Guild is proud to offer our audiences an affordable night of entertainment
while allowing our onstage and backstage members a theatrical experience.
Camelot, The Panto until
December 15 at the Pond Playhouse in Halifax
www.tagtheatre.com 
