Wednesday, August 02, 2006

Spotlight On... Willow Edwards

Willow Edwards, a social worker who works with adolescents, will be tackling the role of Anna in Dan Culberson's "Bucket." This is her second Culberson production, having played Maude in "Death & Babies" as part of the 2005 "Script Happens."

Willow first became involved with the SJTC in January of 2003. She had learned about the company while visiting in the fall for a job interview and knew that she wanted to become involved once she'd settled in our fair city. Since then, she has been a regular, both on and off stage. When asked why she keeps volunteering with the company, Willow had this to say:

"A number of reasons, but "the people" is what comes to mind first," says Willow. "I appreciate the encouragement, openness to try things and dedication displayed by various people I have worked with, whether in their capacities as directors, actors or on the costume crew (These being the areas I've been directly involved with.). There is a lot of positive energy in SJTC. The Company is very well organized, with lots of attention to the little details as well as "the big stuff". "

SJTC: Second Stage has become known for its commitment to quality productions even though their ventures tend to be smaller scale than the SJTC mainstage productions. But Edwards likes these more intimate productions. "The smaller venues for Second Stage productions tend to give a sense of the immediacy of the audience. It's like they're right there with you. This can assist in providing a sense of connection with the audience."

Willow will have the opportunity to make another connection with this upcoming role in "Bucket." "Even though I'm a person whose preference is for realism rather than edginess, "Bucket" appeals to me because it does make a point," says Edwards. "It gives one something to think about. It raises questions such as, what am I filling my bucket with? Is my bucket full, or is it empty? Is what's in there something good, or is it garbage?"

Edwards has been enjoying the challenge of the role. "I also like the creative process involved in bringing the character on paper to life on stage. Seeing the play come to life is a challenge and fun!"

While Willow wouldn't necessarily describe her ongoing interest in theatre as a passion, she certainly enjoys the opportunities it provides. "Being a character in a play allows me to get outside of myself and learn what it may be like to be someone else, to walk in their shoes. This results in me learning about both the character and about myself." Willow's favorite role to date was Jo-Jo in the SJTC: Second Stage's first full length production "The Attic, The Pearls and Three Fine Girls."

When asked about her feelings on Theatre on the Edge being expanded to a festival, Edwards had this to say:

"I think it's great that SJTC is expanding Theatre on the Edge to a week long festival. It provides opportunity for other types of performances to be staged and keeps the spotlight on theatre for a longer period of time. It will be interesting seeing what additions are made in future as the festival expands. I expect it will provide an opportunity for some pretty innovative performances."

"Bucket" will be performed Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, August 16 to 18, at the Mary Oland Theatre in the NB Museum as part of the Evening of One Act Plays. Tickets are $10, or audiences can purchase festival passes for $25. Tickets are available at the NB Museum lobby or at the door.

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