The return to live theater has been challenging post COVID, but there has been a passion-driven effort in Coronado, thanks to Chris Turner, the art director of Lamb’s Players Theatre.
The Coronado News recently visited with him about his experience in bringing live theater back to the island.
The Coronado News: What has been the most challenging aspect of promoting theater in a post-covid environment? Or conversely, has the enthusiasm for live theater been outstanding or more feverous than you anticipated?
Chris Turner: We’re finding people do want to get out of the house…but I think there is a hesitancy to see “heavier “ themed theater. They are loving the nostalgia and comedy shows. They want to laugh, dance or sing along.
Q: How much of the cast and crew is pulled from Coronado residents? Do the participants generally come from off the island, or does it feel like an “at-home” production? Or does it vary from production to production?
Turner: Most cast and crew are from off the island. Our directors, department heads of set and costume are on staff, but live around San Diego. We hire a variety of other positions to help in these areas from around the area. That changes per show needs.
Q: How has the community feedback for this season been different from previous ones? Has the extension of plays been driven primarily by strong ticket sales or from strong audience/critical feedback?
Turner: Strong audience response has been critical to our staying alive. And audience comes from all zip codes in and around Coronado, even as far as Nevada, Arizona and Los Angeles. One huge reason for us staying alive through the pandemic has been the financial support of our patrons. Of course the private and government grants to not for profits have been critical.
Q: How does extending a production for so long affect your season schedule? Are there any productions getting the boot or being cut, or does this kind of extension get prepared for ahead of time?
Turner: Honestly, we ride the tide. As shows become huge successes, we have to reschedule other productions. We work really hard to stay in communication with our ticket buyers as we change dates for the shows. They always get to see what they paid for.
Q: What are you looking forward to most for the rest of the season? Are there any events or productions that you feel are winding up to be extraordinary?
Turner: We’re excited about our upcoming “Cotton Patch Gospel” from June 17 to August 20. It’s a rollicking, foot-stomping, hand-clapping musical, based on the book “The Cotton Patch Version of Matthew and John” by Clarence Jordan with the score by Harry Chapin…Next is “JANE,” the world premiere of David McFadzean’s exciting adaptation of Charlotte Brontë’s masterpiece, “JANE EYRE,” set in the 1920s from September 30 to November 12. Next is our yearly Christmas production, “LAMB’S FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS,” from December 1 to 30. In between productions are our cabarets, which are always popular and run usually two nights with dates to be determined.
