A Life Changing Opportunity

The theatre has always been a magical place for me, where stories come alive and human connections thrive. The unseen magic — the kind that lingers long after the curtain falls — lies in the collective determination of the artists who bring life to the stage. It is an intricate web of relationships that makes it all possible, creating a living, breathing organism that constantly evolves and adapts.

As an art form that thrives on collaboration and shared experiences, learning to engage in theatre transcends the structure of traditional education. It is an education beyond textbooks, a hands-on learning experience that shapes not just our skills but also who we become as artists. For me, this is where the importance of mentorship lies. It is a vital thread woven into the fabric of our creative industry, one that I have been fortunate to both experience and champion. Here at Theatre Orangeville, I see mentorship not just as a responsibility but as a profound privilege. It is a space where we cultivate not only the skills needed for our work but also the personal growth and confidence that propel individuals forward.

I have worn many hats in this industry — creator, leader, educator, and, with immense gratitude, mentor. I vividly recall the feeling of being a young, eager artist, brimming with enthusiasm and ideas, ready to take on the world, while also knowing I had so much still to learn. I experienced fear, self-doubt, and a deep desire to learn more. I was incredibly fortunate to have had mentors who saw my potential rather than my current limitations. Those individuals not only shaped my career trajectory but also solidified my unwavering belief in the power of personal connection and tailored learning. That experience laid the foundation for how I approach mentorship today: understanding that it is not about fitting someone into a pre-set mold but about discovering the unique artist they are meant to be.

Clare Padgett arrived at Theatre Orangeville as a high school cooperative education student, feeling timid and uncertain about her path. While she quietly yearned to find her direction, she had an interest in costuming or possibly fashion design. Although we couldn't promise her a placement in those areas, we welcomed her to join us, hoping to provide her with a glimpse into the transformative experience of creating theatre.

As we got to know Clare, we prioritized supporting her individual needs throughout her placement. It soon became clear that she had a natural skill set and interest in carpentry. We aimed to create a safe and nurturing environment where she could learn, explore, grow, and build confidence. Watching Clare's progress and enthusiasm blossom was genuinely heartwarming.

Her newfound passion opened up paths for her to pursue further education in this field, and it was inspiring to see her approach it with dedication and excitement. This experience truly highlights the importance of personalized support and encouragement in helping individuals not only find their way but also thrive in their chosen paths.

Today, Clare is thriving, working at theatres across Southern Ontario as an accomplished scenic artist, props builder, and scenic carpenter. It is exciting to welcome her back to the shop as a peer. She continues to reach out to share her triumphs and successes, ask for advice and encouragement, and invite us to join her on her journey.

The theatre industry needs this kind of mentorship now more than ever. We’re facing a critical shortage of skilled craftspeople, especially in areas like carpentry and build-focused technical directors. The traditional education routes are often lagging behind the evolving needs of the industry. More and more programs are closing, or are limited by the financial constraints we are all facing. This is more of a crisis than most know, and it’s one that I believe we can address through these mentorship opportunities. On-the-job training, guided by experienced professionals, is the most effective way to pass the invaluable skills needed to take the stories from page to stage. It’s where the theories learned in school meet the realities of show production, and where innovation and creativity can flourish. Not only is this critical in the trades end of production, but in all the roles, from stage management to design, the need for guidance and support is essential to the growth of our industry as a whole. 

However, it’s not just about addressing the current skill gap. From an educator’s perspective, I believe we must also ignite the spark at a younger age, inspiring the next generation to see theatre not just as a form of entertainment, but as a viable and thriving career path. I have found that too often young people don’t even know that these types of roles exist. They see the actors on stage, not the collective group of storytellers that allow the narratives to be expressed. It’s my hope that we can showcase these hidden roles and make them more accessible and appealing. We all love entertainment; it’s part of our everyday lives, a means of connection and reflection. I believe that is why it’s essential to show the work that is done behind the scenes, the magic that doesn’t get its own spotlight, but just as important to the overall success of a production. Here is where we can encourage young people to see themselves in the industry. The stage isn’t just for the big shows and sparkly musicals, but for the real, raw, human stories that resonate with us all. It’s where we can create a sense of community and belonging, where we can see ourselves reflected in the art, and where we can feel seen and heard by the artists in the room. 

Mentorship, in its many forms, is an invaluable gift that needs to be nurtured and protected. It’s not just about passing on knowledge, it’s about fostering dreams, building confidence and creating a community of passionate and skilled individuals who will carry the torch forward. As a mentor, my goal is to empower the next generation to not just participate, but to lead, to innovate and to create theatre that is not only entertaining but also transformative. We need to show them that theatre is a place where they can belong. A place where they can make a difference and a place where they can not only learn their craft, but grow as people. It’s a lifelong journey, and I am honoured to play a part in shaping it. I believe that the future of theatre lies in human connection, the shared experiences and lessons learned together. It’s in the moments of guidance and celebration that we create not only the theatre we want to see, but the people that make that dream a reality.