As the Classic Theatre Festival gears up for its 8th summer season – following its award-winning season in 2016 – volunteers are being sought to both work at the theatre and also host visiting performers.
Billets are needed to host our troupe of actors this summer. A great way to be part of the CTF family of supporters!
While ushers and Front of House volunteers are welcome to join a team that has garnered top marks in the OHvation! customer service ranking, the Festival is also looking for anyone with a spare bedroom and kitchen and washroom access to host one of the visiting professional actors with the Classic Theatre Festival. Currently, the Festival has two actors who will be arriving in Perth for one six-week period, August 1 to September 10. The Festival is hoping individuals or families with spare bedrooms and access to a kitchen and washroom are able to host one of the performers (all of whom pay for their own food). In return, host individuals and families receive free passes to the Festival all summer long as well as exclusive invites to special Festival social events.
If billets are only available for a three-week term, that could work too. In addition, a number of designers will require shorter, 14-day stays in July and August.
For Perth resident Helen Gamble, 2015 marks the 7th consecutive year she has hosted a performer.
“I’ve billeted at least one actress each year of the Classic Theatre Festival in Perth,” Gamble says. “At first I wondered how it would work out and whether my guest room was adequate. It’s been a wonderful experience. I meet interesting, artistic people who are passionate about what they do. They are gone most of the day into the evening, busy with their work schedules. It’s fun to have someone coming and going, a bit of company, but someone I don’t have to entertain.”
Scott Clarkson, who has appeared in seven seasons with the Classic Theatre Festival, enjoys the experience of staying with local residents during his time in Perth. Seen here in 2015’s Wait Until Dark (with Alison Smyth), this year Scott will star in the comedy Same Time, Next Year. (Photo: Jean-Denis Labelle)
Gamble has gotten used to living with actors she sees turning into completely different people when they assume their characters on the Classic Theatre Festival stage. She, among other billet hosts, has also struck up close friendships with those she has hosted, and they often stay in touch via facebook, email, and reunion visits. And it’s always a nice surprise to turn on the TV or see a film in which one of the people who stayed with her has gotten a role.
“All they need beyond their room is a shelf in the fridge and one in a cupboard,” Gamble says. “They feed themselves, tidy and clean after themselves, and respect my house and routine. My friendly dog seems to be a bonus and often they practice their lines with him as their foil.
“Billeting costs me very little – really, just a bit of hot water for showers and a spare key – but I meet and interact with intelligent, outgoing people and am invited to casual get-togethers of cast, crew, other billeters, and volunteers. I’m gifted with tickets to the plays which are more interesting than ever, because I know at least one cast member. I’m glad I decided to billet that first year and look forward to meeting this year’s actress and becoming involved once again.”
Scott Clarkson, a veteran Festival performer returning for his 6th consecutive season, says “I had never been billeted for a show before my first time in Perth and wasn’t sure what to expect,” Clarkson says. “The family I stay with is always so welcoming and cheerful that it makes a six-week stay away from home so much easier. This summer will be my sixth with them – and as much as I love Perth and the Classic Theatre Festival, this family’s hospitality is an equally large part of why I am so happy to keep coming back! I am so grateful to see such generosity to the arts.”
Even if hosts cannot provide a space for the complete six weeks, some performers may require only two or three-week stints. Individuals interested in hosting an actor should call (613) 264-8088 or email info[at]classictheatre.ca.
