How did you first start volunteering at Sunset?
I was first cast in the 2012 production of Stage Door, which was a huge blessing. The large ensemble allowed me to meet and work alongside so many talented people and performers, making the experience especially meaningful.
Do you have a funny Sunset Story?
In 2020. I was cast in Run for Your Wife, fully expecting that we would be performing that same year. The director, Brian Zelinski, went above and beyond to make it happen, creating an elaborate blocking plan to keep the actors six feet apart, for a sex farce-no less, and even arranging for a hazmat crew to disinfect the stage throughout the production.
When the show was postponed for a season, some of his creative problem- solving remained. One scene featured a mannequin as my body double. I don’t usually complain, but I did feel the need to mention that the mannequin, Flo, was a good nine inches taller than I am. I was fairly confident the audience wouldn’t buy it for a second.
I was wrong, when “entertainment returned to Sunset”, the audience didn’t notice at all and (most) genuinely believed I had been dropped onto the stage mid-production. It was a humbling reminder that sometimes the things we worry about most are the things no one else notices.
When you’re not at Sunset, what do you like to do?
I enjoy teaching at Wisconsin Lutheran High School. After 21 years of teaching Spanish, I switched to American Literature this year for a new challenge (and to keep things interesting). In the summer, you can find me slinging frozen cocktails at American Family Field. I love to travel, listen to Michael Buble, and spend time with my Pomeranian, Belle. Here in Milwaukee, I am always on the hunt for the best dog-friendly dive bar happy hour I can find.
What’s your favorite part about theater?
I love the people and the process. Everyone is passionate about telling the stories and bringing the shows to life. Each show brings a new cast and crew with whom I can create. I have met some of my favorite people at Sunset and I am thankful for the long-term friendships. Rehearsals are enjoyable when you are free to explore a character through experimentation. The best advice I’ve received at Sunset is, “It’s why we rehearse!”