OARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTIONS JUNE 25, 2017€¦ · with OMP include, teamwork, customer service,...

ENCORE – SPECIAL EDITION MEMBERS ONLY

PAGE 1 OYSTER MILL PLAYHOUSE - 1001 OYSTER MILL ROAD – CAMP HILL, PA 17011

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTIONS JUNE 25, 2017

MESSAGE FROM THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE

A nominating committee was formed at the March 2017 General Membership meeting to identify candidates interested in positions on the Board of Directors of Oyster Mill Playhouse. The nominating committee consisted of Carol McDonough and Kathy Luft.

The nominating committee would like to invite all members of Oyster Mill Playhouse to attend the annual election of officers on Sunday, June 25 at 5:00 pm. At this important meeting, we will elect new officers to the following 2-year positions: President, Secretary, Production Coordinator and Public Relations Officer. Eight Members-at-Large will also be elected for a 1-year term. Members of the playhouse are permitted to nominate other members “from the floor” at the General Membership Meeting for each of the open positions.

CANDIDATE BIOS AND/OR STATEMENTS

The following candidates have expressed interest in running for election (or re-election) to the Oyster Mill Playhouse Board of Directors. All candidates have been vetted by the Nominating Committee.

President

Chris Holbert (Currently serving as President)

Chris has been an active member of Oyster Mill Playhouse for over 12 years, most recently serving as the President for the past 4 years. Chris previously served on the Board of Directors, as a Member-At-Large and as Business Manager. His professional background includes over 20 years in the banking/mortgage industry where he has held various customer service, management, operations and sales positions. Chris is currently a Mortgage Loan Officer with Fairway Independent Mortgage of Central PA. Chris has managed projects, supervised employees, created detailed operations manuals and lead sales growth. He intends to continue to apply those skills to his role as President of the Oyster Mill Board.

Chris has this to say about how Oyster Mill should operate:

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“OMP provides quality live theatre at a reasonable cost. Soliciting feedback from our volunteers, listening to their needs and ensuring that they feel valued and appreciated are the key components to maintaining quality entertainment at OMP. Managing spending and spending funds in the right

areas are essential to keeping our costs within reasonable levels for our patrons.”

For the future, Chris suggests:

“Increasing community awareness of the playhouse, boosting ticket sales and increasing alternative revenue sources have been my goals as President for the past several years. We have made great

progress in these areas by standardizing criteria for the play-reading committee, creating a fundraising committee to address alternative revenue sources and creating a special events

committee to assist the PR Officer with the task of increasing community awareness. As an all-volunteer organization, we struggle with ways to maintain existing processes while also executing

some of the many great ideas that our members, patrons and volunteers suggest. Growing our pool of talented, committed and dependable volunteers is essential in maintaining the success of the

organization and is one of my top priorities. Working with our volunteer coordinator and possibly with a volunteer committee, I intend to maintain the positive momentum of the organization”.

Secretary

Marte Engle (Currently serving as Secretary)

Marte is a Human Services Program Specialist with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, a position that is largely computer related. At OMP she uses her computer talents for the good of the theatre, be it creating charts and schedules, PowerPoints, or advertising materials. She alleges to have attended the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Marte is a constant volunteer always willing to help anytime, not only at the theatre but also in the community. She can be found at most community events that Oyster Mill attends, and also represents Oyster Mill Playhouse at West Shore Chamber events to promote the theatre, its shows and its contributions to the community.

Marte has this to say about the progress OMP has been making in recent years:

“I think Oyster Mill has been striving to reach out to the community more—not just through events but by such things as having an outlet for local playwrights with the Staged Readings and choosing

more contemporary plays and musicals to perform. Even making strides through social networks by having cast do Instagram Takeovers and live-streaming opening nights. There are also plans to start

podcasts in the immediate future and I’m excited about participating in this new venture!

For the future, Marte suggests:

“Oyster Mill is a small, but relatively mighty, community theatre. We need to find means to bring in new patrons while retaining the current ones. I would still like to see more advertisers, and have been striving to find more myself. I also would like to see more sponsors for our shows (or for the season). I’m hoping through outreach to the community, patrons, and local businesses, we can

achieve this goal.”



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Production Coordinator

Aliza Bardfield (Currently Serving as a Member-at-Large)

For more than 20 years Aliza has worked in the Customer Care and Quality Assurance field focusing on providing oversight and guidance to 50-100 customer care representatives as part of a management team. Some of the responsibilities and tasks that are relevant and translate to being a Board Member, and Production Coordinator, with OMP include, teamwork, customer service, creative problem solving, multitasking, listening skills, and supervision of the entire Quality Assurance department and all related projects. “In essence, planning, coordinating, communicating expectations and obstacles as well as analyzing strengths and how to improve and implementing necessary changes are all within my wheelhouse and are areas I’m very familiar with.”

Aliza has a degree from Millersville University, where she studied History and English Literature. However, her studies continued through theatrical course work undertaken with the Theatre of the Seventh Sister and the Fulton Theatre, both in Lancaster, PA, in Character Development, Scene Study, and Advanced Acting Technique to name a few. “My college education, theatrical training, and learning through life experiences, have all helped me hone my theatrical skills and know-how.”

Aliza notes a few key areas that she would focus on as Production Coordinator:

• Selection of plays and musicals that allow the playhouse to shine as a theatrical venue, while also seeking to meet the tastes of the current patron base and build upon that base to safeguard continuous revenue and longevity, educate, entertain, and enlighten those entering our doors, and nurture the artistic growth of those involved with the theatre while also maintaining the integrity and vision of each play and musical.

• Build and retain strong relationships with other area theatres to allow for a strong working association that will only enhance the position of Oyster Mill Playhouse in the community.

• Be present as a sounding board and as support for directors during the casting process for each production and be present and available to the directors, cast, and crew members during the production and rehearsal process (or have a proxy available if necessary) to allow mitigation of any issues that may arise.

Aliza describes Oyster Mill Playhouse as:

“…that rare commodity in theatres in that it’s a very warm and welcoming organization while at the same time we seek to present a mix of plays and musicals, both old and new, and that entertain, educate, and enlighten. Theatre is about the human experience and casting a mirror of the human spirit with all its faults and whims, victories and failures, and the highs and lows of what it means to live a life and be human. That can be done with humor, with drama, with mystery, and with music as, at its core, theatre is about characters and telling a story that should be told, needs to be told, or allows us to escape into another world. I want to continue to push the boundaries of who we are while still retaining our current patron base; we cannot cut off our nose to spite our face. Selecting plays and musicals that entertain while allowing actors and the theatre to grow and thrive would be strong goals.”

For the future, Aliza opines:

“Theatre is about people. Without the actors, the set builders, the costumers, and the multitude of other sordid and various volunteers from all walks of life, and without our patrons, we could not survive. As a “Thank you” for ongoing patronage, it’s critical to be sure to cater to the demographic



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we currently have in these individuals, while at the same time seeking to widen the “net” – as it were – to ensure our own longevity as a theatre, as in our area, there are dozens of theatres and we need to make sure we are not simply “average” in the mix when someone is selecting a theatre to either work with or to support. To paraphrase Stella Adler, we need to “…get rid of average.” As Production Coordinator, I would look to prior seasons to determine if there are prior productions that could be put on our boards once again due to the theme and content that may be relevant today. I would seek new material fresh from the West End and Broadway. I would look for suggestions from those who walk through our doors. I would create an atmosphere of caring that also challenges us to question who we are as actors, directors, and as individuals. I would look to create seasons where the total is better and greater than the sum of its parts. In doing this, I would look to push Oyster Mill Playhouse towards being the premier community theatre on the West Shore in the Capital region.”

Public Relations Officer

As of the date of this publication, no candidate for Public Relations Officer has been identified.

Member-At-Large (8 Positions Available)

Kathy Luft (Currently serving as Member-at-Large)

Kathy is a retired school administrator who continues to work as a consultant in Early Childhood Education. She has a BS in Elementary Education, a M.ED. in Elementary Education, and a Doctorate in Educational Administration. She states: “The contribution I can offer to the organization is my ability to work with all people. I can listen to other points of view, compromise and work on problem solving. I enjoy a challenge and working on projects.”

Megan McClain (Currently serving as Member-at-Large)

Megan is a Marketing & Education Coordinator at the Pennsylvania RV & Camping Association, and a dance teacher at Campbelltown School of Dance. She has an Associate’s Degree in Theater/Performing Arts from Harrisburg Area Community College. Megan promises to continue to be a reliable resource for Oyster Mill Playhouse, noting: “I will continue to be OMP’s resident Social Media twit, concentrating on Twitter and Instagram as well as continuing on as Volunteer Coordinator. Beyond that, I have plans to choreograph and participate in upcoming shows at OMP.”

She assesses the current state of OMP operations thus:

“I think we have a wonderful base of volunteers at OMP, however this base needs to be expanded. Our “regulars” are getting burned out. I plan to continue verbal and online outreach to find new

volunteers for our wonderful OMP family.”

For the future, Megan notes:

Organization and communication are things we need to work on. We’re all go-getters and I feel that sometimes OMP, as a whole, doesn’t ask for enough help when we truly need it. Plans are in the

works for clean-up days and I think we need to make them a regular thing to keep the theater running efficiently.



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John Fine

John served as an accountant with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania but is now retired. He has an Associate Degree in Accounting/Business Management. He believes that in any way that he can be an asset to community theatre he will strive to advance and improve it.

John believes that OMP produces excellent quality productions with superb quality cast and crew members, but needs to provide better consistent lead staff to make sure there is a better quality control and consistency of how things are run at shows and how house staff is trained and managed. He also notes:

“…another aspect staff needs to do is greet and make Patrons feel Welcome and that we really are VERY GLAD they are there to enjoy a show, have a pleasant experience and be made to feel like they will want to come back to future shows. We don't know but a night out to our Theatre is their only

night out--- let’s make it as pleasant and enjoyable as we can for them.”

Dawn-Michelle Lewis

Dawn-Michelle is currently studying at HACC for AFA in Theatre, Stage Combat, Meisner Technique. She believes she can bring a fresh perspective to OMP, having have worked with nine local community theatres, a regional theatre, a professional stage company, and a professional opera house. While she recognizes that there is still quite a bit she has yet to learn, she believes she possesses a wealth of knowledge as far as what has worked (and not worked) for other theatres. They are relatively important things, such as audience diversity, actor diversity, reliable stage help, marketing, and ticket sales, to name a few. She adds: “Since I have worked with so many other theatres, I also have a large network of people to reach out to.” Regarding the current operations, Dawn-Michelle notes:

“OMP is heading in the right direction. The edgier and thought-provoking shows are incredibly important in our community and our society today. That said, the next step for OMP should be

consistency amongst the show choices each season. The current season seems a bit sporadic. Many theatres I’ve worked with pick a general theme to base their show choices around.

The level of OMP’s community involvement is well done. I like talking to people, getting them

involved, and providing opportunities to others. Now, I think it’s time to get the community more involved with OMP. Maybe instead of just having a booth set up at local events, prepare short kid’s

shows and readers theatre so people can see what OMP can offer.

The staged readings this year was a fantastic idea. I think it would be great to expand it further, like Theatre Harrisburg’s “New Works Festival” or even Carlisle Theatre Company’s “Miscast Cabaret.”

There’s huge potential for involvement and revenue in both scenarios.”

With respect to the future, Dawn-Michelle opines:

OMP absolutely needs to select shows that fit the stage. I understand the ambition, I understand the potential for creativity, but when it comes down to it, some shows are just too big.

There needs to be more actor diversity. I’m not only referring to race, but to the people who are cast. In the last two years, I have seen a lot of the same faces. The best example I can relate this too is



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Samuel L. Jackson. It doesn’t matter what role he is cast in or what character name he is given – I can guarantee the majority of the audience is thinking, “that’s Samuel L. Jackson.” I think it wouldn’t be too far off to believe regular audience members think the same thing when the same faces appear

consistently. It’s not to say they aren’t talented, but OMP should really look into expanding the pool of people to choose from for all auditions.

There should also be more balance between the number of musicals vs number of plays. A trend I’ve noticed is, younger actors are typically more interested in musicals, whereas older actors are partial

to plays.

Her suggestions for the future include:

1. Hold a season review/announcement. Open Stage, Carlisle Theatre Company, Theatre Harrisburg, and now Allenberry/Keystone Theatrics all had a formal season announcement this year. Some included selections from each show being performed and nearly all of them had some form of reception. Events like these are a great way to gauge interest in the theatre and its season.

2. Smaller future seasons for two reasons:

• The rush to build a set would be reduced, if not eliminated. This would also mean more rehearsals in the actual performance space, which can only equate to better performances.

• There would be potential for educational workshops. Such as, but not limited to kid’s camps and acting classes for all ages. The best way to get a community more involved is to give them a reason to be more involved. Classes and workshops also require very little, if any, resources. They are a great way to generate more revenue.

3. I want OMP to look farther than just the upcoming year. The focus can’t just be on the shows. I’d like to make a plan for what needs to be established in the next 5, 10, 20 years, etc. I want to see a capital campaign to support the future of OMP. I’ve seen how other theatres have run campaigns to raise funds and I’ve seen them work. I’d like to extend that knowledge to see OMP grow.

William O’Donnell

William is a state government clerical worker and high school graduate. He previously served a term as Member at Large on the OMP Board as well as a term as Secretary on the Oyster Mill Playhouse Board of Directors. While in those positions, he developed skills as a producer of various productions, which is where he believes his strengths lie.

William brings this perspective to the Board:

“Oyster Mill has always been welcoming to new talent, and I would do my part to spread the word to add to our talent pool. The shows are well-publicized, which is also well-accomplished by the Board

of Directors. Also, appealing to a younger theatre demographic appears to be another means by which Oyster Mill Playhouse can continue to grow and thrive.”



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Stephanie Trdenic

Stephanie has a Nursing diploma from Lancaster General Hospital School of Nursing; an A.S. from Franklin and Marshall College; and a B.A. in English with journalism minor from Millersville University. She has previously worked as pediatric/maternity RN; as the director of Keeping Women Healthy (a Planned Parenthood initiative); and as a freelance writer. She was formerly the chairperson of benefits for Little Theatre of Mechanicsburg. Stephanie states her ability to contribute to OMP thus:

“I will contribute my experience and skills in writing, editing, reaching out to potential donors, acting, and locating venues for special events as needed. I will also continue to seek out and learn new skills

beneficial to the theatre; I am currently gaining experience in stage managing and running sound and lights.”

Regarding OMP operations now and in the future, Stephanie notes:

OMP has always impressed me with its abundance of dedicated volunteers. I would help by

maintaining OMP’s welcoming and professional attitude towards them, and seek new areas where my abilities can best be utilized. I also think we are improving in finding local events where we can spread the word about OMP; I enjoyed the time I spent doing this in New Cumberland, and I would love to spend more time connecting with new people to turn them into regular patrons. (I seriously

love chatting with complete strangers; it’s a gift.)

The prop area definitely needs organized to more easily find that “perfect” item we never know we have. I would start working with other volunteers to (1) schedule times/days to organize; (2) decide

on general categories for props, and narrow down as needed; (3) start digging; (4) occasionally decide this is hopeless, but modify plans as needed and keep on going.

Chandra Yoder

Chandra list her occupations as — Photographer, Jewelry Sales, Drag Queen, Medical Assistant. She has a Associates Degree in Medical Assisting. As a Board member, she hopes to contribute valuable ideas as a performer, photography, and volunteering.

In her assessment of OMP, Chandra notes:

OMP has quality customer service through good volunteers and good director casting, warm and welcoming environment that is inclusive.

While it is all fine and dandy that OMP has a social media site on FB, if no one has heard of Oyster Mill Playhouse, they are highly unlikely to join that page and receive information about the

playhouse - auditions, upcoming shows, special events... I feel that there should be more marketing that goes outside of FB alone, if there currently is other advertising, I am not aware of such. While radio can be quite pricey, I suggest maybe advertising around the area at local grocery stores with flyers or setting up an information table at events. I am affiliated with many an animal rescue and

do many events externally from the Humane Society and other places. I think it would be worth setting up at outside events and getting an information table out there or advertising in papers,



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which is far cheaper than radio. I did see for the first time that I'm aware of, that recently an external event was done, but if it ever happened, I believe it was the first of OMP doing such an event. I feel that the majority of the crowds I have seen are over 35, maybe 40, unless someone younger is in the

play and invites family and friends. Maybe reaching out to younger groups through high school drama clubs and such would be a way to get a younger, fresher crowd who could possibly offer more

ideas”

There are presently only seven (7) candidates for the eight (8) Member-at-Large Board positions, and as noted above, we have no candidate for the two-year term of Public Relations Officer. Nominations from the floor for these two vacancies, as well as nominations for any position up for election this year will be considered at the General Membership Meeting.

The General Membership Meeting on June 25, 2017 Will begin promptly at 5:00 pm

In addition to the election of Officers and Members of the Board, the General Membership Meeting will

include a review of the productions selected for the 2018 Season and any necessary discussion of other

business. Food and beverages will be provided by the current Board of Directors at a reception following

the General Membership Meeting.

Hope to See You There!

OARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTIONS JUNE 25, 2017€¦ · with OMP include, teamwork, customer service,...

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