Left, Chris Lamb and right, Emily Lamb. VIEW ORIGINAL
TOWER BARRACKS, Germany – Just in time for the holidays, after being lost to the North Pole and found in New York City, Buddy is making his way to U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria.
In a total of six performances over four days, a cast of 36 USAG Bavaria community members present Elf: The Musical, Dec. 12 through 15 at Tower Barracks, Bldg. 124 (at the old Grafenwoehr Elementary School).
“This is going to be an incredible show,” said Rachael Harper, Bavaria Performing Arts manager. “The hard work going into it is insane, and I’m really excited about it. With this program being brand new, it’s ebbing and flowing, and it’s changing based off the needs of the community.”
The Bavaria Performing Arts program began in June under the direction of Harper and is more than just an opportunity to perform.
“It's a multi-faceted program where individuals of all ages and skill levels can come together to create, learn, and connect,” said Harper.
In just six months, the program has 150 community members actively participating in the new theater program. This season, Bavaria Performing Arts will present nine shows!
Buddy the Elf is played by Chris Lamb. VIEW ORIGINAL
“Art is a way to escape, and these musicals give people the opportunity to laugh, joke around and make them feel like they’re part of something,” said Harper.
Whether community members are looking to act, sing, or help behind the scenes with things such as lighting, set construction, costumes, bartending, or sound, there’s something for everyone.
“We take people at all levels,” said Harper. “It’s a growing and learning environment where no prior experience is necessary. You could have no theater knowledge at all and still participate, or you could have lots of experience like some of the actors we have.”
There are also classes available for children at the age of three to four years and elementary school students to help them learn how to be in a performance space. The youngest age at which one can perform on stage is eight.
While the program can only exist with the help of volunteers, it’s clear that the connections made within this community are very important. Participants like Ginny Taylor, spouse of an active-duty service member, have found a sense of family within the theater group.
“Once you get into the community, it’s such a family feeling that you don’t want to miss out,” said Taylor. “I didn’t want to sing, but I also didn’t want to miss out on this, so I decided help backstage.”
Another participant, Sgt. Donna Arnold of the 16th Field Artillery, who has a background in theater from her youth, was eager to get involved when she saw the opportunity at USAG Bavaria.
“This is a very safe space,” said Arnold. “At work, I have to be a leader. Here you can just show up, and if you’re having a bad day it’s understood. You don’t have to be anything but yourself. It’s very nice to have that community.”
For those considering getting involved, Harper emphasizes that the program is for everyone, regardless of experience level.
Santa is played by Billy Campsey. VIEW ORIGINAL
“You don’t have to be a star to be seen,” said Harper. “If you’re unsure, just show up and see what you think. There are no expectations. It’s all about what you’re comfortable with.”
Auditions for the next musical, set for spring, will take place Dec. 16 and 17. For those interested in more information about the Bavaria Performing Arts program or to purchase tickets to see Elf: The Musical visit https://grafenwoehr.armymwr.com/bavariaperformingarts.
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