For our look at stage productions in Salem County, we turned to the Blue Moon Theatre in Woodstown. The theater’s founder and owner Cheryl Stark went out of her way to take some time while in the midst of a vacation to answer some questions via email about her company, its current show, “The Importance of Being Earnest,” and their plans for future shows.
We present that correspondence to you here (in a slightly edited and condensed version) in a Q&A format.
Enjoy our conversation and go check out a show at the Blue Moon!
South Jersey Local:
When was Blue Moon founded, and what inspired its creation?
Cheryl Stark:
The Blue Moon Theatre began in 2018. The first floor of the Historic Opera House in Woodstown was available and in September of that year, we began creating that space into an intimate theatre.
While my love for theatre began on stage as a child, my inspiration and mission as a founder is rooted in evolution. I noticed that some traditional structures often created barriers that prevented both those who have worked in community theatre for a while as well as newcomers from fully engaging in the craft. I founded this theatre to dismantle those habits and ensure every participant-whether a seasoned veteran or a first-time volunteer- has a clear path to participate, contribute and truly belong.
SJL:
What is the theater’s mission, and how has it evolved over time?
CS:
My mission, as mentioned above, has evolved into a vibrant reality that we strive for every day. We’ve become a launchpad where incredibly talented individuals – both seasoned veterans and eager newcomers – discover new dimensions of their craft. We take immense pride in seeing our members expand into areas such as directing, technical design and costuming. Beyond traditional plays and musicals, we’ve opened our doors to the broader local scene, providing a premier stage for comedians, musicians, and solo artists to find their voice.
SJL:
Have there been any particularly memorable performances or challenges you’ve overcome?
CS:
You will find many memorable moments with most of our actors. In the world of theatre, there is a show the audience sees, and then there is the miracle happening backstage.
What is most challenging, is most major productions come with a standardized technical diagram to set the stage. However, as any of our directors or construction team members will tell you, our stage has its own intimate personality. Having a smaller stage does not stop us – it just turns those set designs into mastering every square inch. In this, our team, led by Greg Hammell, have become experts. They prove that you don’t need a Broadway sized stage to create a huge impact.
SJL:
What drew you to select “The Importance of Being Earnest” for this season?
CS:
We believe in bringing the Greatest Hits of dramatic literature to our community. “The Importance of Being Earnest” is a staple of theatre history and we are thrilled to give our younger members a chance to work on a classic text while providing our veteran actors with the iconic roles they’ve always dreamed of playing.
SJL:
What other productions are planned for the rest of the season, and are there auditions or volunteer opportunities for upcoming shows you’d like to let people know about?
CS:
Yes, our next production is ‘Glengary Glen Ross” by David Mamet, directed by Mike Russell. Mike brought this production idea to our theatre and it is a high octane look at desperation, greed and the American Dream. The show run is May 8 – 17.
Also, we are incredibly proud to announce our production, “Where the Lost Children Play”, written by one of our very own previous cast members, Hanna Lee DeFrates. Highlighting the work of a highly talented local play writer is at the heart of our mission to empower our members. Show dates are July 17-26.
A final word from Cheryl Stark:
While I may be the founder, the heart of The Blue Moon Theatre belongs to our volunteers. We are a community driven organization sustained by the incredible people who give their time so freely. My sincere thanks go out to our board members, past and present who have steered this ship. Without this team, there would be no magic on our stage.
Thank you and always, break a leg!
The Blue Moon’s current show, “The Importance of Being Earnest,” a comedy by Oscar Wilde, is directed by Stacy Bachman. Show dates are March 13- 22.
For Information on tickets, or to find out about upcoming auditions and ways to get involved, visit the theater’s website www.thebluemoontheatre.com or follow them on Facebook.