HEMBREE: Community theatre has vital influence

Published 1:00 pm Tuesday, August 17, 2021

I was lucky enough to have the chance to perform in a musical recently when The Plaza Arts Center and The Arts Barn collaborated on “Once Upon A Mattress.” After that experience, I truly think that everyone could benefit from getting involved in community arts…whether that be theater, painting, volunteering, the options are endless. Let’s make it a goal to seize these opportunities when they come up. 

During those two weeks, I saw relationships form, or get stronger, between students from different high schools, between the cast and crew and between director and cast. This created an environment in which, even during the summer, everyone was excited to be working and being put to work starting pretty early during the day. 

Students came in and forged bonds with those who they may not have even met if not for this experience. The ‘games’ that started out the day allowed for bonding moments and moments of trust — something that theater is really good at. 

By the end of the performances, the cast and crew truly did not want to leave each other. The two weeks ended with a set strike and an impromptu dance party, which to me, showed just how important this collaboration is. These young adults needed a space to come, be creative and express themselves and The Plaza and The Arts Barn were able to provide that. 

Community theater is something that if you’re involved in, you get the importance of, but if you aren’t, the impact sometimes isn’t as obvious. 

The Plaza Arts Center and The Arts Barn are vital to communities like Eatonton. These entities provide a safe space for kids and young adults to grow, thrive, communicate and create. Without either in place, the young community would lack a creative outlet. 

Seeing art literally come to life in just two short weeks was inspiring. We have so much talent in this area and it is worth supporting. 

Get involved in your local theater. The Plaza is always accepting new members, volunteers, donors — our doors are always open for you. Come visit and see the space where so many young peoples’ lives were changed this summer. Come see a show, we would love to have you. But, somehow get involved — your life may be changed, too. 

Taylor Hembree

Plaza Arts Center, Eatonton