When Beth Lowthian moved to the International Falls community last year, she seized an opportunity to start a theater group.
“Both of (my) kids have been involved in community theaters in other places we lived,” she said. “My husband Doug and I thought forming a community theater group here in the Falls would be a great way to add to the theater opportunities that already exist in the area.”
And so Borealis Bards was created.
Lowthian said she held two community interest meetings in November and had nearly 30 interested people attend. Since then, she said, the group decided to name itself Borealis Bards and became a program offered through the Backus Community Center.
“The start-up process has been remarkably effortless so far,” she said, adding the group has received positive feedback from the start. “A quick meeting with Ward Merrill, executive director of the Backus Community Center, and its board of directors, showed us they were all quite excited about the idea and gave us the organization’s complete support. Without this support the group wouldn’t have moved forward as quickly.”
Earlier this month, the group hosted its first night of theater games and acting skills. Many new faces attended and everyone had great fun, Lowthian said.
So who can join Borealis Bards and attend the group’s theater gatherings?
Lowthian said anyone can join, despite any previous acting experience. Also those who don’t want to take the stage, but want to help with the behind-the-scenes efforts of a show are also welcome.
“We need costume designers, seamstresses, make-up and hair stylists, set builders, and techies,” she said. “(We also) encourage folks that always wanted to try acting to give it a try... Anyone joining now will be part of developing and growing a fun way to express oneself.”
The group’s first performance will be providing entertainment at Backus’ Royal Banquet Medieval Feast April 5.
“We are now drafting the program to include a king/queen crowning ceremony, jester jollies, several short skits and dramatic readings,” Lowthian said.
Hopefully, Borealis Bards will be able to offer its own set of community performances including a traditional stage play, roving performances at summer events, exploring video possibilities and competing at state-wide acting contests, Lowthian continued.
“We would also like to grow a mentor program where folks with previous experience help newer folks in developing a skill – acting, directing, costume or stage design,” she said.
Lowthian said she’s confident those who join the group will have a chance to build their self confidence and public-speaking skills.
“The major goal of this group is to gather the acting talent out there in the Falls area and encourage new folks to try it out, and to have fun,” she said. “Community theater is about sharing the love of acting with your neighbors and to support your neighbors as they explore the art.”
For more information on how to join Borealis Bards, email the group at info@borealisbards.org.
