2024 the Year of Women in Production
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The theatre can not and would not have survived without the work, passion, and skill of the women in our history and we can not thank them enough for their contributions.
This is a particularly special season for Town & Country Players! This is the first in our 77 year history in which all of our directors and producers are women. We are proud to spend the entire YEAR celebrating them! Throughout the year, we will be featuring profiles on all of the women on our production teams, beginning this month with 9 to 5! Scroll down to catch all of the profiles of the women who make our 2024 Season so spectacular! |
We are starting our year long highlight of all our amazing female production team members with Alyssa Moore who is producing 9 to 5!
We asked her to answer a few questions for us to share her experiences as a woman in theatre and offer any insights she might have to any women who aspire to do the same. |
How long have you done theatre?
My first show was in 7th grade
How long have you worked with Town & Country?
My first T&C production was Beauty and the Beast in 2006
What initially drew you to theater?
I was a shy, self-conscious, super emotional kid who played sports but also loved to sing. I auditioned for my middle school musical and was terribly nervous. I remember the director saying to me, "there's no crying in baseball." And suddenly I was surrounded by the most supportive group of people. I broke out of my shell and finally felt comfortable when I had the chance to be someone else on the stage. It's that feeling that drew me in, but it's the people who kept me going. The people who build you up when you're the most vulnerable.
What has been one of your favorite theatrical experiences and why?
My favorite theatrical experience was Beauty and the Beast at Town and Country. From the auditions to closing night, it truly felt like home. Everyone genuinely cared about one another; there were hundreds of inside jokes and incredible memories created. I constantly turn to that show when I think about how to make people feel supported and included. What I come back to is that everyone talked about each other the same way to their faces, but also when they weren't in the room. There was so much respect and admiration for everyone involved.
Do you have any advice for women who want to be in your role in theater?
This is my first time in the Producer role at T&C, so I'm certainly not an expert. I can say that I am loving the opportunity to work on this side of the production, especially surrounded by strong women. If this is a position that interests you, focus on your strengths and skills and let them authentically flow into the work. I love relationship building, so I relied on some incredible ladies who have done this role before - I learned their process, asked lots of questions, and figured out what the position would look like for me. Most importantly, in any leadership role: lead with empathy.
What would you tell your younger self?
Perfection is an unrealistic standard. Embrace your imperfections, because they make you who you are. Avoid the trap of comparing yourself to others; everyone's path is different. Instead, focus on your own journey and celebrate your unique strengths and achievements. Be patient with yourself; growth takes time. Trust in yourself and your abilities, and know that you are on the right path.
Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself and/or your theatrical journey?
In this Year of the Women, I'd like to offer some thoughts:
My first show was in 7th grade
How long have you worked with Town & Country?
My first T&C production was Beauty and the Beast in 2006
What initially drew you to theater?
I was a shy, self-conscious, super emotional kid who played sports but also loved to sing. I auditioned for my middle school musical and was terribly nervous. I remember the director saying to me, "there's no crying in baseball." And suddenly I was surrounded by the most supportive group of people. I broke out of my shell and finally felt comfortable when I had the chance to be someone else on the stage. It's that feeling that drew me in, but it's the people who kept me going. The people who build you up when you're the most vulnerable.
What has been one of your favorite theatrical experiences and why?
My favorite theatrical experience was Beauty and the Beast at Town and Country. From the auditions to closing night, it truly felt like home. Everyone genuinely cared about one another; there were hundreds of inside jokes and incredible memories created. I constantly turn to that show when I think about how to make people feel supported and included. What I come back to is that everyone talked about each other the same way to their faces, but also when they weren't in the room. There was so much respect and admiration for everyone involved.
Do you have any advice for women who want to be in your role in theater?
This is my first time in the Producer role at T&C, so I'm certainly not an expert. I can say that I am loving the opportunity to work on this side of the production, especially surrounded by strong women. If this is a position that interests you, focus on your strengths and skills and let them authentically flow into the work. I love relationship building, so I relied on some incredible ladies who have done this role before - I learned their process, asked lots of questions, and figured out what the position would look like for me. Most importantly, in any leadership role: lead with empathy.
What would you tell your younger self?
Perfection is an unrealistic standard. Embrace your imperfections, because they make you who you are. Avoid the trap of comparing yourself to others; everyone's path is different. Instead, focus on your own journey and celebrate your unique strengths and achievements. Be patient with yourself; growth takes time. Trust in yourself and your abilities, and know that you are on the right path.
Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself and/or your theatrical journey?
In this Year of the Women, I'd like to offer some thoughts:
1. Celebrate Each Other's Successes: Acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of other women. Whether it's a promotion, a personal milestone, or a success in their passion project, showing genuine happiness for each other goes a long way.
2. Empower Rather Than Compete: Instead of viewing other women as competition, see them as allies and sources of inspiration. Lift each other up and help each other succeed. 3. Challenge Gender Stereotypes: Be aware of and challenge stereotypes and biases that may limit or harm women. Encourage others to do the same. 4. Practice Self-Care: Take care of yourself so you can be a source of strength and support for others. Prioritize your own well-being and encourage other women to do the same. 5. Lead by Example: Be a role model for building each other up. Your actions can inspire others to do the same. |
Meet the powerhouse behind our next production in Town & Country Players' Year of Women in Production! Directors play a crucial role in bringing stories to life on stage, and we are thrilled to have the talented Jessica Briggs leading the charge in bringing 9 to 5, the musical, to life. Get ready for a phenomenal showcase of women's talent both on and off the stage!
We asked Jess about her insights on women in theatre and her experience with T&C and beyond! |
What production(s) are you working on and in what role(s)?
9 to 5, Director
How long have you done theatre?
33 Years
How long have you worked with Town & Country?
6 Years
What initially drew you to theater?
I saw my first Broadway show at age 8, Into The Woods, and that was the beginning of my love for theater!
Who is your favorite woman character in theater?
Lady Macbeth
What has been one of your favorite theatrical experiences and why?
Directing the "Probably Doomed" cabaret for T&C last summer! It was so exciting to put together a show where the performers had the chance to sing songs they may have never had the opportunity to perform otherwise. We held nothing back, and they gave some of the most beautiful performances I have seen. It was one of those shows where everyone gave their all, and created such a beautiful experience for the audience and for themselves. I will be forever grateful for the opportunity!
What would you tell your younger self?
Never let anyone tell you that you can't do something. If you want something, make it so. Keep pushing boundaries, keep testing the limits, keep proving people wrong. Nobody is going to give you what you want, you have to earn it.
9 to 5, Director
How long have you done theatre?
33 Years
How long have you worked with Town & Country?
6 Years
What initially drew you to theater?
I saw my first Broadway show at age 8, Into The Woods, and that was the beginning of my love for theater!
Who is your favorite woman character in theater?
Lady Macbeth
What has been one of your favorite theatrical experiences and why?
Directing the "Probably Doomed" cabaret for T&C last summer! It was so exciting to put together a show where the performers had the chance to sing songs they may have never had the opportunity to perform otherwise. We held nothing back, and they gave some of the most beautiful performances I have seen. It was one of those shows where everyone gave their all, and created such a beautiful experience for the audience and for themselves. I will be forever grateful for the opportunity!
What would you tell your younger self?
Never let anyone tell you that you can't do something. If you want something, make it so. Keep pushing boundaries, keep testing the limits, keep proving people wrong. Nobody is going to give you what you want, you have to earn it.
Introducing another production team member of 9 to 5 the musical, Marissa Miller!
As we continue to celebrate the Year of Women in Production, Marissa brings her passion and expertise to the stage, showcasing the incredible talent of women both on and off stage. Stay tuned for an unforgettable performance and hear Marissa's thoughts on women in theatre, her journey with T&C and more! |
What production(s) are you working on and in what role(s)?
9 to 5, choreographer
How long have you done theatre?
20 years
How long have you worked with Town & Country?
3 years
Are there any women in the theatrical industry from whom you draw inspiration?
My mom, Streisand, Taylor Louderman
What initially drew you to theater?
My love for singing, and the people
What has been one of your favorite theatrical experiences and why?
Working on Seussical or Hello Dolly, as well as performing in Footloose and Addams Family. In those productions, we built such a supportive community and it was filled with love and great memories.
Do you have any advice for women who want to be in your role in theater?
Work hard and you have to always advocate for yourself. Believe you can and you will.
Who is your favorite woman character in theater?
Depends on the day, but I love Jo from Little Women.
What would you tell your younger self?
Do NOT give up you are almost there!
What would you do if you knew you could not fail?
Write a show or a movie
9 to 5, choreographer
How long have you done theatre?
20 years
How long have you worked with Town & Country?
3 years
Are there any women in the theatrical industry from whom you draw inspiration?
My mom, Streisand, Taylor Louderman
What initially drew you to theater?
My love for singing, and the people
What has been one of your favorite theatrical experiences and why?
Working on Seussical or Hello Dolly, as well as performing in Footloose and Addams Family. In those productions, we built such a supportive community and it was filled with love and great memories.
Do you have any advice for women who want to be in your role in theater?
Work hard and you have to always advocate for yourself. Believe you can and you will.
Who is your favorite woman character in theater?
Depends on the day, but I love Jo from Little Women.
What would you tell your younger self?
Do NOT give up you are almost there!
What would you do if you knew you could not fail?
Write a show or a movie
Who's ready for another weekend of 9 to 5? I hope you're also ready for another installment of our Year of Women in Production! Meet Sue den Outer, the Music Director for 9 to 5!
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What production(s) are you working on and in what role(s)?
9 to 5 Music Director
How long have you done theatre?
40 years!! (some time off in between)
How long have you worked with Town & Country?
2 years (first show was Guys and Dolls with Sheldon Zeff)
Are there any women in the theatrical industry from whom you draw inspiration?
All actresses and actors constantly amaze me with their talent and devotion to the art. But, behind the scenes (or in the pit!) are so many wonderful women and men who do not necessarily get the name recognition, but whose value is immeasurable.
What initially drew you to theater?
The music and escape from reality
What has been one of your favorite theatrical experiences and why?
Little Women because of the connection to a childhood favorite novel, the beautiful score and the people who became dear friends.
Do you have any advice for women who want to be in your role in theater?
Put yourself out there and ask to play with us crazy, theater-loving, talented musicians.
Who is your favorite woman character in theater?
Tough one, but I’ll say Elphaba: strong-willed, grounded (well not always, but you know what I mean), passionate.
What would you tell your younger self?
You do not need to do all of the shows … 😂.
What would you do if you knew you could not fail?
Play in a Broadway pit.
Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself and/or your theatrical journey?
My journey is far from over!!
9 to 5 Music Director
How long have you done theatre?
40 years!! (some time off in between)
How long have you worked with Town & Country?
2 years (first show was Guys and Dolls with Sheldon Zeff)
Are there any women in the theatrical industry from whom you draw inspiration?
All actresses and actors constantly amaze me with their talent and devotion to the art. But, behind the scenes (or in the pit!) are so many wonderful women and men who do not necessarily get the name recognition, but whose value is immeasurable.
What initially drew you to theater?
The music and escape from reality
What has been one of your favorite theatrical experiences and why?
Little Women because of the connection to a childhood favorite novel, the beautiful score and the people who became dear friends.
Do you have any advice for women who want to be in your role in theater?
Put yourself out there and ask to play with us crazy, theater-loving, talented musicians.
Who is your favorite woman character in theater?
Tough one, but I’ll say Elphaba: strong-willed, grounded (well not always, but you know what I mean), passionate.
What would you tell your younger self?
You do not need to do all of the shows … 😂.
What would you do if you knew you could not fail?
Play in a Broadway pit.
Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself and/or your theatrical journey?
My journey is far from over!!
Introducing another production team member of 9 to 5 the musical, Tammy Tuckey!
As we head into the final weekend of 9 to 5 at T&C we'd like to take this time to highlight the production's Stage Manager, Tammy Tuckey! |
What production(s) are you working on and in what role(s)?
"9 to 5" - Stage Manager
How long have you done theatre?
Since 2004 - my first show was Rogers and Hammerstein's "Cinderella"!
How long have you worked with Town & Country?
Since 2021 - my first production was "12 Angry Jurors."
Are there any women in the theatrical industry from whom you draw inspiration?
"Barbra Streisand - she's done it all and during her legendary 1994 concert, she summed it up with a song:
"I've hеard them say, 'Songwriting, acting, producing
What makes her think that shе can?'
Or better yet, 'Songwriting, acting, producing
What does she think, she's a man?'
What has been one of your favorite theatrical experiences and why?
"The Mousetrap" at T&C. A great group of actors who enjoyed each others company on stage and off.
Do you have any advice for women who want to be in your role in theater?
Organization and safety is key with the role of a stage manager. Safety takes a priority over everything. If you know this, you can't go wrong!
Who is your favorite woman character in theater?
Christine from "The Phantom of the Opera." She has lived through loss and abuse, but her love for others reigns and shines true in the end, never faltering.
What would you tell your younger self?
Show business is that - show (the fun part) and business (the not-so-fun part). Your talent will always shine through in whatever part you play - enjoy the experience and company of the people you get to work with.
What would you do if you knew you could not fail?
Direct a feature-length film.
"9 to 5" - Stage Manager
How long have you done theatre?
Since 2004 - my first show was Rogers and Hammerstein's "Cinderella"!
How long have you worked with Town & Country?
Since 2021 - my first production was "12 Angry Jurors."
Are there any women in the theatrical industry from whom you draw inspiration?
"Barbra Streisand - she's done it all and during her legendary 1994 concert, she summed it up with a song:
"I've hеard them say, 'Songwriting, acting, producing
What makes her think that shе can?'
Or better yet, 'Songwriting, acting, producing
What does she think, she's a man?'
What has been one of your favorite theatrical experiences and why?
"The Mousetrap" at T&C. A great group of actors who enjoyed each others company on stage and off.
Do you have any advice for women who want to be in your role in theater?
Organization and safety is key with the role of a stage manager. Safety takes a priority over everything. If you know this, you can't go wrong!
Who is your favorite woman character in theater?
Christine from "The Phantom of the Opera." She has lived through loss and abuse, but her love for others reigns and shines true in the end, never faltering.
What would you tell your younger self?
Show business is that - show (the fun part) and business (the not-so-fun part). Your talent will always shine through in whatever part you play - enjoy the experience and company of the people you get to work with.
What would you do if you knew you could not fail?
Direct a feature-length film.