Alliance Stage Company first introduced online programming in April 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 closures. Today, a number of company members continue to explore what theater really means while redefining it for a virtual platform. This learn-by-doing approach in response to a dark pandemic was a bright lesson in how older adults can adapt when provided proper devices and instruction; how art is a valuable creative outlet for our community affecting positive change; how acting classes serve as a reduction in social isolation connecting members to friends and family; and how technology has allowed virtual members to stay civically engaged.
The company's "I Am An Actor" series was inspired by the distinguished members of SAG-AFTRA, who have shared bibliographic anecdotes and perceptions of their craft. These are their stories.
I Am an Actor
Artist: Eleanor Port
Older Adult Site: Sirovich Center for Balanced Living
Class: Alliance Stage Company
Material: Video
Artist Statement: “Each year James Madison High School had a SING. The SING was a contest between the sophomore, junior, and senior classes to put on an original musical show. The shows were absolutely delightful. We’d rewrite lyrics of music from Broadway Shows using funny situations that could happen at school—like selling tickets to use the elevator.
I had a wonderful time and enjoyed painting the scenery and singing in the chorus. It was exciting being onstage; it was the highlight of my high school experience. I still sing and act and after moving during the pandemic, I now participate in the Alliance Stage Company virtually—from Massachusetts. My name is Eleanor Port and I am an actor.”
I Am an Actor
Artist: Elaine Cohn
Older Adult Site: Sirovich Center for Balanced Living
Class: Alliance Stage Company
Material: Video
Artist Statement: “What prompted me to join this group was several things. One, everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves. Secondly, it had development opportunities for me. I was able to speak out more. And, of course, the environment was welcoming. We’re never criticized. So, a compilation of all of those things; seeing people enjoy themselves, progressing, and being directed in a supportive way. My name is Elaine Cohn and at 99-years- old, I am an actor.”
I Am an Actor
Artist: Barbara Haspel
Older Adult Site: Sirovich Center for Balanced Living
Class: Alliance Stage Company
Material: Video
Artist Statement: “My first desire—decision—to be a performer occurred when I was 8-years-old. My brother and I attended a Saturday feature, followed by a live Vaudeville show, in a movie house in the East Bronx, not far from Arthur Avenue. While the stage performers sang, “The Best Things in Life Are Free,” the audience stood and started to applaud. I, of course, stood up as well, and under the protection of the thunderous ovation, I softly began to sing along. No one could hear me, but suddenly I was in a different space. Oh, I was very happy. I felt like I was flying. My name is Barbara Haspel and I am an actor.”
I Am an Actor
Artist: Areerata Sudhasirikul
Older Adult Site: Sirovich Center for Balanced Living
Class: Alliance Stage Company
Material: Video
Artist Statement: “I joined Alliance Stage Company in 2018. By September of that year, I was performing onstage. In doing so, my purpose for participating was fulfilled—to dare speak aloud in public! I have stayed with the group and performed many times! You can even see me and my peers on YouTube. My name is Areerata Sudhasirikul and I am an actor.”
I Am an Actor
Artist: Marlene Beck
Older Adult Site: Sirovich Center for Balanced Living
Class: Alliance Stage Company
Material: Video
Artist Statement: “As a young elementary school teacher, I was required to stage a performance related to my curriculum in the school’s auditorium. I was petrified—but determined! I went to work writing out speaking parts, using snippets of songs, and making up choreography. That was 60 years ago, and I still remember the title theme I used, “There’s No Place Like Hawaii.”
Creating a show and teaching it to children is a tremendous amount of work, but my 3rd-grade class shined bright. The students, teachers, and administration loved it. I’ll never forget, after the show, a child’s father came up to me with tears in his eyes. He was so proud. So was I! It brought me so much joy and a sense of accomplishment. A feeling I still get today as a performer of Alliance Stage Company. (I leave the planning to someone else!) My name is Marlene Beck and I am an actor.”
I Am an Actor
Artist: Julia Ewasow
Older Adult Site: Sirovich Center for Balanced Living
Class: Alliance Stage Company
Material: Video
Artist Statement: “On a sunny September day, a few years back, I was walking through the neighborhood and saw the sign for Sirovich Center. I decided to go in and check it out. Standing in the lobby I heard about drama and vocal classes that were being held that afternoon. Acting? Singing? Me? No way. I turned to leave. But, before I reached the bottom of the steps, something told me to turn back around. Up the steps, I went. The director was so welcoming! I must’ve stated three or four times, “I’m not here to join the class, just to watch.”
Still, he invited me to sit with the group members, handed me a script, and even had me read a few lines of dialogue aloud. I’ve always found public speaking intimidating. I’ve always been self-conscious of my Brooklyn brogue. But, I kept coming back each week! And, last May, I made my stage debut during the inaugural CelebratEArts Festival. I heard the applause; I was overwhelmed. To my surprise, tears were falling from my eyes. Performing is not just acting. It’s camaraderie, expression, respect, and sensitivity. Now I know. My name is Julia Ewasow and I am now an actor.”