Unfortunate circumstances sometimes afford new opportunities.
After learning Community United Methodist Church in Slingerlands was closing its doors, the operators of The Cue Theatre didn’t know what was next. Once they took some time to think of their future prospects, they opted to take a leap of faith and rent their own space.
“We didn’t think we would have the ability to go out on our own so soon,” said Executive Director Elana Kaminer.
Artistic Director SuzAnne Dunn said she had been a director of productions for kids and teens throughout the Capital District, but decided to take a break after her program became too big and an excess of kids joined. She decided to take a step back and begin Cue the Classroom, a new outreach program where Dunn visits area schools to enhance instruction of the performing arts.
“Kids kept coming up to me and saying ‘This can’t be your last show,’ and didn’t really give me an option,” said Dunn. “So I talked with Elana about instead of just doing the classroom program, actually starting up an educational theater.”
The Cue Theatre began in April 2013 through a space-share agreement with the church. The program offers afternoon and summer classes to students in kindergarten through college, and puts on about five productions per year for the community. Shows in the fall and spring have open auditions for people throughout the Capital District.
Dunn has an extensive background in theater, while Kaminer previously worked with nonprofits and was brought on to help market Cue the Classroom. She then decided to take on a larger role when the educational theater program began.
Kaminer said they toyed with the idea of doing another space-share, but ultimately decided to rent their own space and make it their own.
“Although we are a relatively new business, there is a great need for these types of educational opportunities,” Kaminer said. “Having the space means we can expand our programming to meet the needs of students here in town and the entire Capital Region.”
Renovations to the new space on Becker Terrace in Delmar are nearly complete. A new, permanent stage has been built, and the space is now undergoing a paint job. Summer classes began at the new location as soon as the move happened.
Dunn said having their own space provides the company more freedom, and they no longer have to worry about being in the way of others.
Both women said program is beneficial to kids of all personality types, with those who are a bit shy to athletes and extroverts taking part.
There are also educational opportunities for those who may not want to act, but want to learn another aspect of theater production. Participants can learn how to build sets, paint scenery, design costumes, video edit, do audio or help with the orchestra. They can also learn the business aspects of theater by helping sell tickets, run concession or work as ushers. Dunn said the programs are supposed to be an all-encompassing look into the theater industry, and often work as an offshoot of school drama clubs.
“The area school districts have great theater programs, but a lot of times there are only so many parts to go around or a limited number of shows,” said Dunn. “That isn’t the same with us because we can provide more opportunities.”
Along with the scheduled production of “Seussical” in August, The Cue Theatre will soon be putting on a cabaret show of favorite showtunes to act as a fundraiser for the move. The show will be put on by the theater’s older teens and college students as a way to give back.
The shows attract people of all ages, and not just the parents of students. Dunn said some are bringing their children to see shows for the first time, where others are seniors or residents who are looking for something different to do close to home.
“It’s pretty exciting to be able to give that type of culture back to your community,” said Kaminer.
To learn more about classes or future shows, visit www.thecuetheatre.org or call 573-6683.