Alex Newmark

Alex Newmark, a long-time member of the tech team is the core behind a lot of the Playmaker's success, working from the background. She has won two Stage Management awards in her high school career.  

What were you looking to accomplish coming into Playmakers?

  I wanted to learn more about theatre tech and what goes on behind the scenes. I had known since Freshman year that acting was not for me, and I was curious about the technical aspects of theatre. I hoped to create well-organized and technically cohesive shows during my time as a Playmmaker. I also wanted to have fun.

Over the years how have your experiences in Playmakers challenged, inspired, or shaped you as an artist and person?

    Playmakers has encouraged me to step outside the box of traditional art. Instead of the traditional mediums of art, I use set, sound, and lighting design to express myself. There is an art to set design and set painting, but also to sound mixing or lighting looks. Playmakers has taught me to push the bounds of traditional art. It has also encouraged me to set outside of my comfort zone. I am not an actor, yet Playmakers has given me to space to explore acting without any pressure.

Do you have any advice for incoming Playmakers?

   HAVE FUN!! Playmakers is a lot of work and can be very stressful. Don't forget to take a deep breath and enjoy yourself. Playmakers do a lot of awesome things, and it's important to remember that.

How would you describe Playmakers as a community?

Playmakers is a wonderful, tight-knit community. We are kind of like a family. Sure we don't always agree on everything, yet there is always someone to offer you support and encouragement. We all care so much for our art and each other, and it has created such an amazing and close group.

Reflecting back on your time in the program, are you satisfied with your achievements as an individual and group?

Yes, I think I have done a pretty good job as a Stage Manager. I have won two Stage Management awards during my time as a Playmaker. However, that's not what is really important about theatre. The awards are great, but they aren't what is truly important. All that really matters is if we are proud of the work we have done. As Ms. Miller likes to say "We are making a cake. And if we get icing on the cake, that's great. But all that really matters is if we like the cake." In both my years as a Playmaker, we have gotten a lot of icing. But in both instances, the work we did meant more to me than any icing or awards we received.

Are there any fond memories of Playmakers you would like to share? 

   Performing at SETC will always have a special place in my heart. Despite having been working on the show for 6 ish months, everyone did an amazing job and gave such a fresh performance. I had so much fun during the show and also on the entire trip. It was wonderful to see everyone have such a great time and enjoy each other's work and company.