Q&A with Playwright/Choreographer Lance Gray

(1) Did you have any formative theatrical experience or theater instructor when you were young, and if so, what age / describe the experience. And, as you look back now as a professional theater artist, the effect the instructor or experience had on you.

I had a number of people who influenced me. My 2nd grade teacher, Mrs. Jarrett used to play piano and have a sing along at the beginning of every day. I can still sing her rainy day song for you. It wasn't until high school that I started doing theatre. Mrs. Trueblood (theatre), Mrs. Hartin (choir), and Miss Runge (theatre tech) were the first ones to guide me through my first "best cast ever". They showed me that all aspects of the production are equally important. They set me on my career path that continues 30 years later. (I'm friends with Mrs. Trueblood on Facebook.)

(2) Why is theater important for our youth to experience and have access to?

Theatre provides a way for kids to collaborate with their friends (old and new) on something creative. They don't have to worry about winning or losing. They get to learn new stories, sing new songs, and develop new talents along the way. At the end the kids have a product that is a culmination of their hard work, and there aren't many things better to a performer (young or old) than an appreciative audience.

3) What is your favorite part about working with kids?

Easy answer: their ENERGY!!!!

(4) What is your hope/personal goal for the kids that attend Bridgeport Summer Stage this summer?

I hope they come away with new friends.

I hope the quiet kids find their voice, and the outgoing kids focus their energy.

I hope they are proud to be a part of their production.

Most of all, I hope they have fun.